Cierre de herida en cirugía protésica de rodilla y cadera (PTR y PTC): Resultados de una encuesta sobre la práctica clínica en España / Wound closure after knee and hip replacement (TKA and THA): Survey results on the clinical practice in Spain

Introducción y objetivos: En cirugía protésica de rodilla y cadera está claro que aún no se ha desarrollado una técnica de cierre estandarizada óptima. A nivel local no existen datos que describan la práctica quirúrgica habitual en cierre de herida. El objetivo de este trabajo es analizar el cierre de herida en cirugía protésica a través de una encuesta sobre una muestra representativa a nivel nacional y así obtener información sobre el contexto del cierre en España. Material y método: Se conforma un grupo ad hoc de especialistas en cirugía protésica. El grupo de expertos, posterior al análisis de la literatura, elabora un cuestionario de 32 preguntas cerradas de opción múltiple, divididas en los siguientes bloques: hemostasia, cierre quirúrgico de la herida y apósitos. Resultados: Un total de 471 cirujanos respondieron la encuesta de forma completa y con información suficiente para efectuar el análisis descriptivo; 79% cree que el ácido tranexámico (ATX) puede influir en la disminución de tasa de infección de sitio quirúrgico; 96% cree que el tipo de cierre profundo a nivel de la artrotomía podría influir en los resultados y complicaciones tras prótesis de cadera y/o rodilla; 85% cree que el tipo de cierre superficial a nivel subcutáneo puede influir en los resultados y complicaciones tras prótesis de cadera y/o rodilla; 64% de los cirujanos utiliza la terapia de presión negativa incisional de simple uso para el tratamiento de las complicaciones de la herida quirúrgica (seromas, drenaje prolongado, dehiscencias). Conclusiones: Existe en nuestro entorno una alta variabilidad en el cierre de la herida y una baja inversión en formación sobre este tema. Los autores recomiendan a las diferentes sociedades científicas la inversión de recursos para mejorar la formación en dicho campo y reducir el porcentaje de cirujanos que se consideran inadecuadamente formados, así como adaptar las técnicas de cierre a aquellas consideradas patrón oro según la evidencia.(AU)

Background and objective: In orthopedic surgery, it is clear that an optimal standardized closure technique has not yet been developed. Locally, there are no objective data describing the standard surgical practice in wound closure. The aim of this study is to analyze the clinical practice of surgical wound closure in orthopedic surgery by means of a survey of a representative local sample and thus obtain information on the context of closure in Spain. Method: an ad hoc group of specialists in orthopedic surgery and traumatology was formed. The group of experts, after analyzing the literature, developed a questionnaire of 32 closed multiple-choice questions divided into the following blocks: hemostasis, surgical wound closure (deep, superficial, and cutaneous), and dressings. Results: A total of 471 surgeons responded to the survey completely and with sufficient information to perform the descriptive analysis. 79% believe that ATX can influence the decrease in surgical site infection rate. 96% believe that the type of deep closure at the level of the arthrotomy could influence outcomes and complications after hip and/or knee replacements. 85% believe that the type of shallow closure at the subcutaneous level may influence outcomes and complications after hip and/or knee replacement. 64% of surgeons use single-use incisional negative pressure therapy for the treatment of surgical wound complications (seroma, prolonged drainage, dehiscence). Conclusions: There is a high level of variability in wound closure in our setting and a low level of training on the subject. The authors recommend that the different scientific societies invest resources to improve training in this field and reduce the percentage of surgeons who are considered inadequately trained, as well as adapting closure techniques to those considered gold standard according to the evidence.(AU)

[Translated article] Wound closure after knee and hip replacement (TKA and THA): Survey results on the clinical practice in Spain / Cierre de herida en cirugía protésica de rodilla y cadera (PTR y PTC): resultados de una encuesta sobre la práctica clínica en España

Introducción y objetivos: En cirugía protésica de rodilla y cadera está claro que aún no se ha desarrollado una técnica de cierre estandarizada óptima. A nivel local no existen datos que describan la práctica quirúrgica habitual en cierre de herida. El objetivo de este trabajo es analizar el cierre de herida en cirugía protésica a través de una encuesta sobre una muestra representativa a nivel nacional y así obtener información sobre el contexto del cierre en España. Material y método: Se conforma un grupo ad hoc de especialistas en cirugía protésica. El grupo de expertos, posterior al análisis de la literatura, elabora un cuestionario de 32 preguntas cerradas de opción múltiple, divididas en los siguientes bloques: hemostasia, cierre quirúrgico de la herida y apósitos. Resultados: Un total de 471 cirujanos respondieron la encuesta de forma completa y con información suficiente para efectuar el análisis descriptivo; 79% cree que el ácido tranexámico (ATX) puede influir en la disminución de tasa de infección de sitio quirúrgico; 96% cree que el tipo de cierre profundo a nivel de la artrotomía podría influir en los resultados y complicaciones tras prótesis de cadera y/o rodilla; 85% cree que el tipo de cierre superficial a nivel subcutáneo puede influir en los resultados y complicaciones tras prótesis de cadera y/o rodilla; 64% de los cirujanos utiliza la terapia de presión negativa incisional de simple uso para el tratamiento de las complicaciones de la herida quirúrgica (seromas, drenaje prolongado, dehiscencias). Conclusiones: Existe en nuestro entorno una alta variabilidad en el cierre de la herida y una baja inversión en formación sobre este tema. Los autores recomiendan a las diferentes sociedades científicas la inversión de recursos para mejorar la formación en dicho campo y reducir el porcentaje de cirujanos que se consideran inadecuadamente formados, así como adaptar las técnicas de cierre a aquellas consideradas patrón oro según la evidencia.(AU)

Background and objective: In orthopedic surgery, it is clear that an optimal standardized closure technique has not yet been developed. Locally, there are no objective data describing the standard surgical practice in wound closure. The aim of this study is to analyze the clinical practice of surgical wound closure in orthopedic surgery by means of a survey of a representative local sample and thus obtain information on the context of closure in Spain. Method: an ad hoc group of specialists in orthopedic surgery and traumatology was formed. The group of experts, after analyzing the literature, developed a questionnaire of 32 closed multiple-choice questions divided into the following blocks: hemostasis, surgical wound closure (deep, superficial, and cutaneous), and dressings. Results: A total of 471 surgeons responded to the survey completely and with sufficient information to perform the descriptive analysis. 79% believe that ATX can influence the decrease in surgical site infection rate. 96% believe that the type of deep closure at the level of the arthrotomy could influence outcomes and complications after hip and/or knee replacements. 85% believe that the type of shallow closure at the subcutaneous level may influence outcomes and complications after hip and/or knee replacement. 64% of surgeons use single-use incisional negative pressure therapy for the treatment of surgical wound complications (seroma, prolonged drainage, dehiscence). Conclusions: There is a high level of variability in wound closure in our setting and a low level of training on the subject. The authors recommend that the different scientific societies invest resources to improve training in this field and reduce the percentage of surgeons who are considered inadequately trained, as well as adapting closure techniques to those considered gold standard according to the evidence.(AU)

¿Son las escalas de valoración de fragilidad superiores a la escala de valoración ASA en la predicción de complicaciones, estancia hospitalaria y readmisiones en prótesis total de rodilla? Un estudio comparativo entre pacientes octogenarios y septuagenarios / Are frailty scores superior to the ASA score in predicting complications, hospital stay, and readmissions in total knee replacement? A comparative study between octogenarian and septuagenarian patients

Antecedentes y objetivo: Las escalas de valoración de fragilidad no han sido estandarizadas para la evaluación prequirúrgica de pacientes sometidos a un reemplazo total de rodilla (RTR). El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar la eficacia de la escala de valoración de la Sociedad Americana de Anestesiología (ASA), el índice de comorbilidad de Charlson (ICC) y la escala simple de fragilidad (SSF) en la predicción de complicaciones, estancia hospitalaria, reingresos y mortalidad después del RTR electivo. Materiales y métodos: Estudiamos retrospectivamente a 448 pacientes que se sometieron a un RTR por artrosis en nuestra institución entre 2016 y 2019. Estos se dividieron en 2 grupos: grupo A (263 pacientes <80 años) y grupo B (185 pacientes >80 años). Todos fueron clasificados por escalas ASA, ICC y SSF. Resultados: El ICC fue mayor en el grupo B (mediana: 5 [RI: 4-6] vs. 4 [RI: 3-5]; p<0,001); sin embargo, no se asoció con un mayor número de complicaciones. Al realizar un análisis de regresión logística encontramos, para las complicaciones: OR SSF=0,67; ICC=1,11; ASA 3 y 4=0,89 y edad=1,04; mientras que para los reingresos: OR SSF=2,09; ICC=1,01; ASA 3 y 4=0,79 y edad=1. Conclusiones: Las escalas ICC y SSF demostraron no presentar diferencias a la escala ASA en la predicción de reingresos, complicaciones y estancia hospitalaria. Sin embargo, el SSF parece tener una mejor correlación en la predicción de la readmisión no planificada.(AU)

Background and objective: Frailty scores have not been standardized for the preoperative assessment of patients undergoing total knee replacement (TKR). The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of the American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) score, the Charlson comorbidity index (ICC) and the simple frailty score (SSF) in predicting complications, hospital stay, readmissions and mortality after elective TKR. Materials and methods: We retrospectively studied 448 patients who underwent TKR for osteoarthritis at our institution between 2016 and 2019. They were divided into two groups: Group A (263 patients, <80 years) and Group B (185 patients, >80 years).). All were classified by ASA, ICC and SSF scores. Results: The ICC was higher in Group B (median 5 [RI: 4-6] vs. 4 [RI: 3-5]; P<.001); however, it was not associated with a higher number of complications. When performing a logistic regression analysis we found, for complications: OR SSF=0.67, ICC=1.11; ASA 3 & 4=0.89 and age=1.04; while for readmissions: OR SSF=2.09; ICC=1.01; ASA 3 & 4=0.79 and age=1. Conclusions: The ICC and SSF scales showed no differences to the ASA scale in the prediction of readmissions, complications and hospital stay. However, the SSF seems to have a better correlation in predicting unplanned readmission.(AU)

[Translated article] Are frailty scores superior to the ASA score in predicting complications, hospital stay, and readmissions in total knee replacement? A comparative study between octogenarian and septuagenarian patients / ¿Son las escalas de valoración de fragilidad superiores a la escala de valoración ASA en la predicción de complicaciones, estancia hospitalaria y readmisiones en prótesis total de rodilla? Un estudio comparativo entre pacientes octogenarios y septuagenarios

Antecedentes y objetivo: Las escalas de valoración de fragilidad no han sido estandarizadas para la evaluación prequirúrgica de pacientes sometidos a un reemplazo total de rodilla (RTR). El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar la eficacia de la escala de valoración de la Sociedad Americana de Anestesiología (ASA), el índice de comorbilidad de Charlson (ICC) y la escala simple de fragilidad (SSF) en la predicción de complicaciones, estancia hospitalaria, reingresos y mortalidad después del RTR electivo. Materiales y métodos: Estudiamos retrospectivamente a 448 pacientes que se sometieron a un RTR por artrosis en nuestra institución entre 2016 y 2019. Estos se dividieron en 2 grupos: grupo A (263 pacientes <80 años) y grupo B (185 pacientes >80 años). Todos fueron clasificados por escalas ASA, ICC y SSF. Resultados: El ICC fue mayor en el grupo B (mediana: 5 [RI: 4-6] vs. 4 [RI: 3-5]; p<0,001); sin embargo, no se asoció con un mayor número de complicaciones. Al realizar un análisis de regresión logística encontramos, para las complicaciones: OR SSF=0,67; ICC=1,11; ASA 3 y 4=0,89 y edad=1,04; mientras que para los reingresos: OR SSF=2,09; ICC=1,01; ASA 3 y 4=0,79 y edad=1. Conclusiones: Las escalas ICC y SSF demostraron no presentar diferencias a la escala ASA en la predicción de reingresos, complicaciones y estancia hospitalaria. Sin embargo, el SSF parece tener una mejor correlación en la predicción de la readmisión no planificada.(AU)

Background and objective: Frailty scores have not been standardized for the preoperative assessment of patients undergoing total knee replacement (TKR). The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of the American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) score, the Charlson comorbidity index (ICC) and the simple frailty score (SSF) in predicting complications, hospital stay, readmissions and mortality after elective TKR. Materials and methods: We retrospectively studied 448 patients who underwent TKR for osteoarthritis at our institution between 2016 and 2019. They were divided into two groups: Group A (263 patients, <80 years) and Group B (185 patients, >80 years).). All were classified by ASA, ICC and SSF scores. Results: The ICC was higher in Group B (median 5 [RI: 4-6] vs. 4 [RI: 3-5]; P<.001); however, it was not associated with a higher number of complications. When performing a logistic regression analysis we found, for complications: OR SSF=0.67, ICC=1.11; ASA 3 & 4=0.89 and age=1.04; while for readmissions: OR SSF=2.09; ICC=1.01; ASA 3 & 4=0.79 and age=1. Conclusions: The ICC and SSF scales showed no differences to the ASA scale in the prediction of readmissions, complications and hospital stay. However, the SSF seems to have a better correlation in predicting unplanned readmission.(AU)

The characteristics and predictors of mortality in periprosthetic fractures around the knee.

Aims: Periprosthetic fractures (PPFs) around the knee are challenging injuries. This study aims to describe the characteristics of knee PPFs and the impact of patient demographics, fracture types, and management modalities on in-hospital mortality. Methods: Using a multicentre study design, independent of registry data, we included adult patients sustaining a PPF around a knee arthroplasty between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2019. Univariate, then multivariable, logistic regression analyses were performed to study the impact of patient, fracture, and treatment on mortality. Results: Out of a total of 1,667 patients in the PPF study database, 420 patients were included. The in-hospital mortality rate was 6.4%. Multivariable analyses suggested that American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade, history of peripheral vascular disease (PVD), history of rheumatic disease, fracture around a loose implant, and cerebrovascular accident (CVA) during hospital stay were each independently associated with mortality. Each point increase in ASA grade independently correlated with a four-fold greater mortality risk (odds ratio (OR) 4.1 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.19 to 14.06); p = 0.026). Patients with PVD have a nine-fold increase in mortality risk (OR 9.1 (95% CI 1.25 to 66.47); p = 0.030) and patients with rheumatic disease have a 6.8-fold increase in mortality risk (OR 6.8 (95% CI 1.32 to 34.68); p = 0.022). Patients with a fracture around a loose implant (Unified Classification System (UCS) B2) have a 20-fold increase in mortality, compared to UCS A1 (OR 20.9 (95% CI 1.61 to 271.38); p = 0.020). Mode of management was not a significant predictor of mortality. Patients managed with revision arthroplasty had a significantly longer length of stay (median 16 days; p = 0.029) and higher rates of return to theatre, compared to patients treated nonoperatively or with fixation. Conclusion: The mortality rate in PPFs around the knee is similar to that for native distal femur and neck of femur fragility fractures. Patients with certain modifiable risk factors should be optimized. A national PPF database and standardized management guidelines are currently required to understand these complex injuries and to improve patient outcomes.

Effects of Kinesio taping on lower limb biomechanical characteristics during the cutting maneuver in athletes after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

PURPOSE: To determine the effects of Kinesio taping (KT) on the biomechanical characteristics of the lower limbs during the 90° cutting maneuver in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) athletes. METHOD: Eighteen ACLR athletes were recruited and subjected randomly to three taping conditions, KT, placebo taping (PT), and no taping (NT), followed by a 90° cutting test. A nine-camera infrared high-speed motion capture system (Vicon, T40, 200 Hz) was used to record the kinematic parameters of the lower limbs during the cutting maneuver, and a three-dimensional dynamometer (Kistler, 1000 Hz) was used to record the kinetic parameters of the lower limbs. A one-way repeated measures analysis of variance was conducted to compare the differences in the lower limb kinematic and kinetic characteristics of ACLR athletes subjected to these interventions. RESULTS: During the landing phase, the knee valgus angle reduced significantly with KT than with NT (95% confidence interval = -1.399 to -0.154; P = 0.025), whereas no significant difference was observed between PT and NT (95% confidence interval = -1.251 to 0.217; P = 0.236). No significant differences were observed in the other kinematic variables among the three taping conditions (P > 0.05). During the landing phase, no significant differences in the kinetic variables were observed among the three taping conditions (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Although KT does not improve the kinetic variables of athletes after ACLR during the 90° cutting maneuver, it reduces the knee valgus angle, which could reduce the risk of secondary ACL injury.

High three-dimensional accuracy of component placement and lower limb alignment using a robotic arm-assisted system and gap-balancing instrument in total knee arthroplasty.

PURPOSE: It was hypothesized that robotic arm-assisted total knee arthroplasty (RA-TKA) using additionally a gap-balancing instrumentation will show high accuracy in executing the planning in femoral and tibial component placement throughout the range of knee motion (ROM) during TKA surgery. METHODS: Prospectively collected data were analysed for patients undergoing RA-TKA. A cruciate retaining cemented design was implanted using the MAKO® robotic system. Lower limb alignment at 0°, 30°, 45°, 60° and 90° of flexion was recorded at the beginning of surgery and finally after implantation of the components. A ligament tensioner was inserted after tibial precut to measure the extension and flexion gap, and final component placement was planned based on 3D CT images. Femoral and tibial component placement was measured in all three planes. RESULTS: A total of 104 patients were included (mean age 69.4 ± 9 years; 44 male, 60 female). The difference in component placement after planning and final implantation showed less valgus of 0.7° ± 1.4° (p < 0.001), less external rotation of 0.6° ± 1.9° (p = 0.001) and less flexion of 0.9° ± 1.8° (p < 0.001) for the femoral component. The tibial component was placed in more varus of 0.2° ± 0.9° (p = 0.056) and more posterior slope of 0.5° ± 0.9° (p < 0.001). The lower limb alignment in extension was 4.4° ± 5.2° of varus of the native knee and changed to 1.2° ± 1.9° of varus after TKA (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Robotic-assisted TKA helps to achieve the target of alignment and component placement very close to the planning. It allows optimal component placement of off-the-shelf implants respecting patient's specific anatomy. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II.

Global knee function rating more strongly influences adolescent athletes that sustain a sports-related surgical ACL re-injury or contralateral ACL injury.

PURPOSE: This study evaluated differences between adolescent athletes who sustained a surgical anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) re-injury, or contralateral ACL injury following return to sports bridge programme participation (Group 1) compared to those that did not (Group 2). METHODS: At 19.9 ± 7 years of age, 198 athletes participated in this study. Groups were compared for time postsurgery, preprogramme and postprogramme Knee Outcome Survey Sports Activity Scale (KOS-SAS) and global rating of knee function (GRKF) during sports activities, postprogramme lower extremity physical function test performance and perceived sports performance compared to preinjury level. RESULTS: By 6.0 ± 3.2 years postsurgery, 11 (5.6%) sustained another ACL injury. Group 1 was younger (17.3 ± 1.7 years vs. 20.1 ± 6.8 years, p < 0.001). Postprogramme re-evaluation revealed that Group 1 had a greater GRKF compared to their programme initiation GRKF than Group 2 (32.6 ± 38 vs. 20.0 ± 23, p = 0.04). Group 1 also had a greater mean preprogramme to postprogramme GRKF change than Group 2 (51.3 ± 31 vs. 35.5 ± 21, p = 0.02) (effect size = 0.73). More Group 1 subjects also had a GRKF difference that exceeded the overall mean than Group 2 (p = 0.04). Group 1 had moderately strong relationships between preprogramme and postprogramme GRKF score change and the postprogramme GRKF score (r = 0.65, p = 0.04) and between preprogramme and postprogramme KOS-SAS score change and postprogramme GRKF score (r = 0.60, p = 0.04). CONCLUSION: Global rating scores had a stronger influence among adolescent athletes that sustained either surgical ACL re-injury or contralateral ACL injury. Since group physical function and neuromuscular control factors were similar, clinicians need to increase their awareness and understanding of other factors that may influence surgical ACL re-injury or contralateral ACL injury risk. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective cohort study.

Knee biomechanics variability before and after total knee arthroplasty: an equality of variance prospective study.

This study evaluated gait variability in patients before and after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) using the equality of variance method to determine where variability differences occur in the movement cycle. Twenty-eight patients underwent TKA with cruciate-sacrificed implants. Patients underwent motion analysis which measured knee biomechanics as they walked overground at their preferred pace before and 12 months after TKA. Equality of variance results were compared with 14 healthy controls of similar age. Before surgery, patients had reduced knee extension moment variability throughout the early stance phase (4-21% gait cycle, p < 0.05) compared to controls. Knee power variability was lower preoperatively compared to controls for most of the stance phase (0-13% and 17-60% gait cycle, p < 0.05). Sagittal knee moment and power variability further decreased following TKA. Knee extension moment variability was lower postoperatively throughout stance phase compared to preoperatively (4-22% and 36-60% gait cycle, p < 0.05) and compared to controls (4-30% and 45-60% gait cycle, p < 0.05). Knee power variability remained lower following TKA throughout stance phase compared to preoperatively (10-24% and 36-58% gait cycle, p < 0.05) and controls (3-60% gait cycle, p < 0.05). TKA patients may be less stable, and this may be in part due to an unresolved adaptation developed while awaiting TKA surgery and the cruciate sacrificing design of the implants utilized in this study.

Therapeutic effect of knee extension exercise with single-joint hybrid assistive limb following total knee arthroplasty: a prospective, randomized controlled trial.

The single-joint hybrid assistive limb (HAL-SJ), an exoskeletal robotic suit, offers functional improvement. In this prospective randomized controlled trial, we investigated the therapeutic effects of knee extension exercises using the HAL-SJ after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Seventy-six patients with knee osteoarthritis were randomly assigned to HAL-SJ or conventional physical therapy (CPT) groups. The HAL-SJ group underwent exercise using the HAL-SJ for 10 days postoperatively, in addition to CPT; the CPT group underwent only CPT. Pain intensity and active and passive knee extension angles were evaluated preoperatively and on postoperative days 1-10 and weeks 2 and 4. Performance tests and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores (KOOS) were evaluated preoperatively and at postoperative weeks 2 and 4. Statistical analysis showed that the HAL-SJ group significantly improved active and passive knee extension angles compared with the CPT group. The HAL-SJ group showed immediate improvement in active knee extension angle through day 5. There were no significant differences in results between the performance tests and KOOS. Knee extension exercises with the HAL-SJ improved knee pain and the angle of extension in the acute phase after TKA.

Tibial morphology of symptomatic osteoarthritic knees varies according to location: a retrospective observational study in Japanese patients.

This study analyzed 31 patients with symptomatic osteoarthritic knees scheduled to undergo knee arthroplasty or high tibial osteotomy and demonstrated shape variations in their proximal tibia using an average three-dimensional (3D) bone model. Preoperative computed tomography of the affected knees was reconstructed as 3D bone models using a triangle mesh of surface layers. The initial case was defined as the template, and the other models were reconstructed into homologous models with the same number of mesh vertices as that in the template. The corresponding mesh vertices of the other models were averaged to evaluate the spatial position on the particular mesh vertex of the template. This was applied to all the mesh vertices of the template to generate the average 3D model. To quantify the variation in surface geometry, average minimum distance from the average bone model to 31 models was recorded. The medial proximal tibial cortex (1.63 mm) revealed lesser variation compared to the tibial tuberosity (2.50 mm) and lateral cortex (2.38 mm), (p = 0.004 and p = 0.020, respectively). The medial tibial plateau (1.46 mm) revealed larger variation compared to the lateral tibial plateau (1.16 mm) (p = 0.044). Understanding 3D geometry could help in development of implants for arthroplasty and knee osteotomy.

Femoral anterior condyle height decreases as the distal anteroposterior size increases in total knee arthroplasty: A comparative study.

PURPOSE: The anterior flange height of the current femoral component increases with an increasing distal femoral anteroposterior dimension. During total knee arthroplasty (TKA), we have observed that a large femur may have a thinner anterior condyle, whereas a small femur may have a thicker anterior condyle. The first purpose of this study was to examine whether the femoral anterior condyle height decreases as the distal femoral anteroposterior size increases and whether gender differences exist in anterior condyle height. METHODS: A total of 1218 knees undergoing TKA intraoperative and computed tomography scans from 303 healthy knees were used to measure the anterior lateral condylar height (ALCH), anterior medial condylar height (AMCH), and the lateral anteroposterior (LAP) and medial anteroposterior (MAP) dimensions of distal femurs. The LAP and MAP measurements were used for adjustments to determine whether gender differences exist in anterior condyle heights. Linear regression analysis was performed to determine correlations between ALCH and LAP or between AMCH and MAP. RESULTS: There were significant differences between males and females in ALCH in both the CT and TKA groups and AMCH in the CT group (all P<0.01). After adjusting for LAP and MAP, there were significant gender differences in the lateral and medial condylar heights in both groups (P<0.01). There were significant negative correlations between ALCH and LAP values and between AMCH and MAP values in both CT and TKA measurements, with the LAP and MAP values increasing as ALCH and AMCH decreased. CONCLUSIONS: The results demonstrate that femoral anterior condylar height decreased with increasing anteroposterior dimension in both the medial and lateral condyle. In addition, this study also showed that anterior condylar heights are highly variable, with gender differences. The data may provide an important reference for designing femoral anterior flange thickness to precisely match the natural anterior condylar anatomy.

Editorial Commentary: A Gap-Based Subclassification of Ramp Lesions Has the Potential to Enhance Treatment Precision and Patient Outcomes in Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Deficient Knees Subtitle: Customizing Solutions for Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Deficient Knees.

Our evolving understanding of ramp lesions has significantly affected the field of anterior cruciate ligament injury and meniscal repair. Although these lesions have been linked consistently to increased anterior and rotational instability in anterior cruciate ligament-deficient knees, there remains a contentious debate regarding their optimal treatment. The current literature is divided, as some advocate for surgical repair of only arthroscopically unstable lesions. Others point to a substantial risk of complications, noting a 28.6% incidence in untreated stable lesions, and thus advocate for surgical repair of all lesions. Through the use of magnetic resonance imaging scans of flexed knees, a novel subclassification of ramp lesions based on gap distance at the tear site shows a correlation with posterior capsular displacement, anterior laxity, lesion size, and joint effusion. This nuanced classification offers new insights and promises to refine treatment decisions, potentially minimizing unnecessary surgeries and improving patient outcomes.

A randomised crossover trial of five cryocompression devices' ability to reduce skin temperature of the knee.

BACKGROUND: The application of cold and pressure to the knee is a common part of post-operative rehabilitation. Skin temperature should be reduced to within 10-15 °C to optimise the therapeutic benefits of cryocompression. The purpose of this study was to investigate the ability of five different cryocompression devices to reduce skin temperature to within this therapeutic range. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 32 healthy adult participants (mean (SD): age 26.3 (7.9) years; BMI 24.8 (2.7) kg/m2; 20 males) were recruited for this randomised crossover study. Skin temperature was measured 20 mm distal to the patella using a k-type thermocouple every five minutes during a 30-minute treatment with one of five different cryocompression devices (Physiolab S1, GameReady, Cryo/Cuff, VPulse, and a Gel Wrap). Changes in skin temperature over time were compared to baseline within and between conditions. A subjective rating of comfort was also recorded for each device. RESULTS: The Physiolab S1 and GameReady devices caused significantly lower skin temperatures compared to the VPulse, Gel Wrap, and Cryo/Cuff after 30 minutes (p<0.05). 87-96% reported a positive comfort rating for the Physiolab S1, VPulse, Cryo/Cuff and Gel Wrap, whereas 53% of participants reported a positive comfort rating for the GameReady. CONCLUSIONS: Only the Physiolab S1 and GameReady devices reduced skin temperature of the knee to within the target range of 10-15 °C. The Physiolab S1 was reportedly more comfortable than the GameReady. Clinicians should be aware of the performance differences of different cryocompression devices to understand which is most likely to provide an effective dose of cold therapy to a joint.

Single- or two-stage revision after failed ACL reconstruction: No differences in re-revision rates and clinical outcomes.

PURPOSE: The surgeons' choice of a single-stage or a two-stage procedure in revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLr) is based on the possibility of reuse of the tibia and femoral bone tunnels after primary ACLr. The purpose of this study was to compare failure rates and clinical outcomes following single-stage and two-stage ACL revisions in a cohort of patients from The Danish Knee Ligament Reconstruction Registry. METHODS: Patients identified from 2005 to 2022 with ACL revision and met the following criteria: minimum 2-year follow-up, isolated ACL revision and registered single- or two-stage ACL revision. The primary outcome was ACL re-revision rate. Secondary outcomes were arthrometer sagittal knee laxity (side-to-side difference) and pivot shift (rotational stability difference) evaluated at 1-year follow up. RESULTS: One thousand five hundred seventy-four ACL revisions were included in the study (1331 = single-stage and 243 = two stage). Baseline characteristics showed no difference in relation to age, gender, knee laxity, pivot shift, meniscus injury, cartilage damage or injury mechanism between the two groups. Significant differences were found in relation to the type of graft. No statistical difference in 2-years revision rates between single-stage group 2.79 (95% CI 2.03-3.84) and two-stage group 2.93 (95% CI 1.41-6.05) was found. No significant difference was seen in knee laxity and pivot shift between stage-groups at 1-year follow up. Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in knee stability from baseline to 1-year follow-up. CONCLUSION: The present study found that ACL revision outcomes were similar in terms of rerevision rates and knee laxity for patients managed with a single- or a two-stage surgical strategy. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Complications of Bicruciate-Retaining Total Knee Arthroplasty: The Importance of Alignment and Balance.

Bicruciate-retaining total knee arthroplasty (BCR TKA) results in kinematics closer to the native knee and in greater patient satisfaction but information concerning its outcome and complications is lacking.The goal of this study is to report the clinical and radiological outcomes of BCR prosthesis implanted using a spacer-based gap balancing technique and to assess if some preoperative factors are associated with a worse prognosis.A cohort of 207 knees in 194 patients who underwent BCR TKA, with a minimum 1-year follow-up, was retrospectively analyzed.Patients were followed at 6 weeks, 6 months, 1 year, and then every following year postoperatively, and filled questionnaires (Knee Society and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score) at every visit. Clinical and radiological assessments included range of motion, knee alignment, pain, and complications as defined by the Knee Society's Standardized list and definition of Complication of Total Knee Arthroplasty.Forty-three knees (20.8%) suffered major complications. Twenty-one knees (10.1%) underwent revision at an average of 32.1 months after the index procedure. Revision-free survival at 100 months was 85.7%. Revision was performed for aseptic tibial loosening in eight knees (3.9%) and stiffness in five knees (2.4%). There were 29 reoperations other than revision (14.0%), the most frequent procedure being manipulation under anesthesia in 14 knees (6.8%). Minor complications included tendonitis (20.8%), persistent synovitis (6.8%), and superficial wound infections (6.3%).All outcomes scores were greatly improved at the 1-year follow-up compared with preoperatively (p < 0.001). However, maximum flexion at the last follow-up was significantly reduced compared with preoperatively (mean maximum flexion ± standard deviation: 119.9 ± 15.6 vs. 129.9 ± 14.4, p < 0.001). Aseptic tibial loosening was associated with a hypercorrection in varus of preoperative valgus knees (p = 0.012).BCR TKA can give functional results similar to other types of prostheses but involves a substantial risk of complications. Important factors that can explain failed BCR TKA and guide its use were identified, more particularly knee alignment and its role in aseptic tibial loosening.

Comparisons of the morbidities of a double gastrocnemius flap and a medial gastrocnemius flap in the orthoplastic reconstruction around the knee.

BACKGROUND: The pedicled gastrocnemius flap is commonly used to treat lower limb defects. Either the medial, lateral, or both heads can be used. When extended soft tissue defects are present, a double gastrocnemius (DG) flap may be used. However, no data of the additional donor site morbidity compared to a medial gastrocnemius (MG) flap are available. The aim of this study was to compare the donor site morbidity of a DG with that of a MG. METHODS: Patients with a soft tissue defect around the knee, treated with a gastrocnemius flap between 2018 and 2021 at the University Hospital of Lausanne and Bari, with a minimum follow-up of 12 months, were included. According to the size and the position of the defect, it was decided whether one (10 patients) or two (9 patients) heads of the gastrocnemius were necessary for the coverage. The mean age was 61 years (range 42-82) in DG, and 63 years (range 45-78) in MG. The average defect size was 89.8 cm2 in the DG group and 53.4 cm2 in the MG group. The etiologies were trauma (n = 10), infection (n = 7) and sarcoma (n = 2). A medial approach or a posterior midline approach was used for the harvesting of the gastrocnemius muscle. Once the flap was harvested, it was rotated and transposed anteriorly over the defect, either through a subcutaneous tunnel or by dividing the intervening skin bridge, depending on the soft tissue defect. A split-thickness skin graft was used to close the skin over the remaining exposed muscle flap. The active range of motion of the ankle and knee joints was measured. Muscle strength was assessed with a hand-held dynamometer and by the ability to stand on tiptoe. Physical function was evaluated through the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS). RESULTS: The two groups were homogeneous, with no significant difference in age, sex, and BMI. All flaps survived in both groups. Both groups showed lower values in strength and range of motion of the operated leg, when compared to contralateral side. In plantar flexion, this accounted for a reduction in MG by 3.8 ± 1.0 kg of strength and 8 ± 3° of ROM, and in DG by 4.7 ± 1.7 kg and 16 ± 4°, respectively. For knee flexion, the reduction in MG was 4.4 ± 0.6 kg and 16 ± 7°, while in DG 5.6 ± 1.0 kg and 28 ± 6°. In the MG group, 60% were able to stand on the tiptoe of the operated leg, as opposed to 0% in DG. The average LEFS score in DG was lower by 10.9 points (p < .05). Questions concerning running and jumping had a lower score in DG (p < .01). CONCLUSIONS: The harvesting of both gastrocnemii led to significant additional donor site morbidity compared to the harvesting of the medial gastrocnemius alone. However, the additional morbidity did not have an impact on activities of daily living and walking, even though it limited the ability to perform more demanding tasks such as running and jumping. Therefore, based on our study, the choice of a DG flap should be critically assessed in younger, more demanding patients.

No clinical advantage with customized individually made implants over conventional off-the-shelf implants in total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) can be performed with either conventional off-the-shelf (OTS) or customized individually-made (CIM) implants. The evidence for CIM implants is limited and variable, and the aim of this review was to compare clinical and radiological outcomes between CIM and OTS implants. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Studies reporting on clinical, radiological, or alignment outcomes for CIM and OTS implants were selected. The studies were appraised using the Methodical index for non-randomized studies tool. RESULTS: Twenty-three studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The studies comprised 2856 CIM and 1877 OTS TKAs. Revision rate was higher with CIM (5.9%) compared to OTS (3.7%) implants [OR 1.23(95% CI 0.69-2.18)]. Manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) was higher in CIM (2.2%) compared to OTS (1.1%) group [OR 2.95(95% CI 0.95-9.13)] and complications rate was higher in CIM (5%) vs. OTS (4.5%) [OR 1.45(95% CI 0.53-3.96)] but neither reached statistical significance. Length of stay was significantly shorter in CIM group 2.9 days vs. 3.5 days [MD - 0.51(95% CI - 0.82 to - 0.20)]. Knee Society Score showed no difference between CIM and OTS groups for Knee 90.5 vs. 90.6 [MD - 0.27(95% CI - 4.27 to 3.73)] and Function 86.1 vs. 83.1 [MD 1.51(95% CI - 3.69 to 6.70)]. CONCLUSION: CIM implants in TKA have theoretical benefits over OTS prostheses. However, in this present review, CIM implants were associated with higher revisions, MUA, and overall complication rates. There was no difference in outcome score and CIM implants did not improve overall target alignment; however, more CIM TKAs were found to be in the HKA target zone compared to OTS TKAs. The findings of this review do not support the general utilization of CIM over OTS implants in TKA.

Lateral versus medial approach for total knee arthroplasty for valgus knee deformity shows comparable functional outcomes, hip-knee-ankle angle values, and complication rates: a meta-analysis of comparative studies.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this meta-analysis of comparative studies was to update the current evidence on functional and radiographic outcomes and complications between medial and lateral approaches for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for valgus knee deformity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and the Cochrane Central databases were used to search keywords and a total of ten studies were included. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed. Data extracted for quantitative analysis included the Knee Society score (KSS), range of motion (ROM), surgical time, hip-knee-ankle angle (HKA), and number and types of complications. Random- and fixed-effect models were used for the meta-analysis of pooled mean differences (MDs) and odds ratios (ORs). The Mantel-Haenszel method was adopted. RESULTS: A total of 1008 patients were identified, of whom 689 and 319 underwent TKA for valgus knee deformity with lateral and medial approach, respectively. The mean age was 70 ± 9.5 and 67.3 ± 9.6 years for the lateral and medial approaches, respectively. The mean follow-up was 37.8 ± 21.9 and 45.9 ± 26.7 months for the lateral and medial approach groups, respectively. Significantly higher functional outcomes were found for the medial approach, as measured by the postoperative KSS (MD = 1.8, 95% CI [0.48, 3.12], P = 0.007) and flexion ROM (MD = 3.12, 95% CI [0.45, 5.79], P = 0.02). However, both of these differences were lower than the minimal clinically important difference. Comparable surgical time and postoperative HKA angle values (MD = 0.22, 95% CI [- 0.30, 0.75], P = 0.40) between the two surgical approaches were found. The incidence of periprosthetic joint infections, fractures, transient peroneal nerve injuries, and deep vein thrombosis was comparable. CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis of comparative studies showed that when lateral and medial approaches are used for total knee arthroplasty for valgus knee deformity, comparable functional outcomes in terms of the KSS and ROM, surgical time, and postoperative hip-knee-ankle angle values can be expected. Similar rates of periprosthetic joint infection, fracture, and peroneal nerve injury were also found. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: I. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER ID: CRD42023392807.