The effect of posterior tibial slope on anteroposterior stability in posterior cruciate retaining total knee arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: It has been suggested that the posterior tibial slope (PTS) plays an important role in increasing the anteroposterior stability following total knee arthroplasty. Although the relationship between the PTS and the flexion range has been investigated many times, studies on the relationship between PTS and anterior-posterior stability are limited. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the relationship and effects of PTS on anteroposterior stability in posterior cruciate retainer total knee arthroplasty. METHODS: 154 primary TKAs were identified retrospectively to analyze the any association between PTS and anteroposterior laxity following posterior cruciate-retaining total knee arthroplasty in the overall study populations. Anteroposterior displacement was measured at the final follow-up based on the following two procedures: KT-1000 arthrometer and sagittal drawer radiographic images. In addition, the relationship between PTS and functional scores-ROM was examined. RESULTS: There was no correlation between patients' posterior tibial slope and postoperative VAS (r: -0.060, p:0.544), WOMAC (r:0.037, p:0.709), KSS (r: -0.073, p:0.455). In addition, there was no significant correlation between postoperative knee ROM and postoperative PTS (r:0.159, p:0.106). Moreover, no correlation was found between KT-1000 arthrometer and 20 degrees AP translation with PTS. There was a negative correlation between PTS and 70 degrees AP translation (r: -0.281, p:0.008). CONCLUSIONS: This study aimed to clarify the association between instability and AP laxity in flexion of implanted knees, and to determine what degree of AP laxity results of instability. A fundamental finding of this study was that; the optimum TS angle to increase anterior-posterior stability after total knee arthroplasty is between ≥ 4 to < 6 degrees, we also proved that there is no relationship between stability and patient satisfaction.

Gender and degree of tendon healing are independent predictive factors for clinical outcome in successfully healed rotator cuff tears.

PURPOSE: Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (aRCR) is a commonly performed procedure and has been reported to be a successful treatment. Successful healing has traditionally been considered to be associated with good outcome; however, knowledge on predictive factors affecting final outcome other than tendon healing is limited. This study aims to investigate predictive factors influencing clinical outcome following aRCR in patients with successfully healed tears. METHODS: This retrospective case-control study was conducted in a single center with 135 patients who had successfully healed tendons based on Sugaya classification (grades I-III) on postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans following aRCR. Clinical outcome measures included Constant-Murley score (CMS), range of motion (ROM), pain score. Various preoperative, intraoperative factors and degree of postoperative tendon healing were assessed to identify independent predictive factors for final clinical outcome. RESULTS: Mean age of patients was 55.9 ± 9.0 years and mean follow-up duration was 46.8 ± 14.9 months. There were 50 (37%) male and 85 (63.0%) female patients. At final follow-up, mean CMS was 85.7 ± 12.0. Considering mean postoperative CMS and the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) of 10 points for CMS, a cutoff level of 75 points for CMS was set (85-10 = 75) and study population was divided into two study groups (group I, poor outcome, CMS ≤ ;75, and group II, good outcome, CMS > 75). There were 24 (17.8%) patients in group I and 111 (82.2%) patients in group II. Univariate analysis revealed that gender, body mass index (BMI) and degree of tendon healing (Sugaya classification) differed significantly between two groups (p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis which was conducted with these variables showed that female gender (odds ratio 3.65) and Sugaya grade III (odds ratio 8.19) were independent predictive factors which were significantly associated with poor outcome (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that despite achieving a successful healing, considerable amount of patients (17.8%) have ended up with poor outcome. Female gender and degree of tendon healing were identified as independent predictive factors for poor outcome. These data would help surgeons during decision-making, risk assessment and patient counseling. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Safe and dangerous zones for the superficial femoral artery in femoral surgery.

The proximity of the superficial femoral artery (SFA) to the femur exposes the SFA to risks that have serious complications. Although surgeons have used the lateral or medial approach to lessen these risks, they have not been eliminated. Therefore, this study aimed to identify dangerous and safe zones in terms of the SFA that can be used during femoral surgical procedures, using anatomical reference points. Computed tomography angiography (CTA) of 50 patients aged between 16 and 60 years obtained from the local institution's database was examined. Radiological and clinical measurements were performed to determine the position of the SFA relative to the femur. The mean age of the patients included in this study was 38.08 ± 9.44 (16-60) years. The average ratio of the distance between the proximal and distal borders of the dangerous zone and the lateral joint spaces (LJS) to the distance between the greater trochanter (GT) and LJS was 0.5722 ± 0.053, respectively. The average ratio of the distance between the end of the dangerous zone and LJS to the distance between the GT and LJS was 0.4108 ± 0.05026. This study found that 40% and 60% of the clinically measured distance between the GT and LJS can be used to determine safe and dangerous zones during femoral surgery. Additionally, the half distance between the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) and medial joint space (MJS) and one-fourth of the distance between the ASIS and LJS can be used to determine safe and dangerous zones in patients whose GT are not easily palpated.

Symptomatic osteonecrosis of the hip and knee in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: Prevalence, pattern, and comparison of natural course.

OBJECTIVE: Osteonecrosis (ON), also known as avascular necrosis, is characterized by the collapse of the architectural bone structure secondary to the death of the bone marrow and trabecular bone. Osteonecrosis may accompany many conditions, especially rheumatic diseases. Among rheumatic diseases, osteonecrosis is most commonly associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We assessed prevalence and distribution pattern of symptomatic ON in patients with SLE and compare the natural courses of hip and knee ON. METHODS: 912 SLE patients admitted between 1981 and 2012 were reviewed. SLE patients with symptomatic ON were retrospectively identified both from the existing SLE/APS database. The prevalence of symptomatic ON was calculated; with ON, the joint involvement pattern was determined by examining the distribution of the joints involved, and then the data about the hip and knee joints were entered in the Kaplan-Meier analysis. Kaplan-Meier methods were used to calculate 5- and 10-year rates of ON-related hip (the hip group) and knee survival (the knee group). RESULTS: Symptomatic ON developed in various joints in 97 of 912 patients with SLE, and the overall prevalence of ON was detected as 10.6%. The mean age at the time of SLE and ON diagnoses were 27.9 ± 9.9 (14-53) and 34.2 ± 11.3 (16-62) years, respectively. The mean duration from diagnosis of SLE to the first development of ON was 70.7± 60.2 (range = 0-216) months. The most common site for symptomatic ON was the hips (68%, n=66), followed by the knees (38%, n = 37). According to Kaplan-Meier analysis, hip and knee joint survival rates associated with 5-year ON were 51% and 88%, and 10-year survival rates were 43% and 84%, respectively. CONCLUSION: We observed that the prevalence of symptomatic ON in patients with SLE was 10.6%. With the estimated 10-year survival rates of 40% versus 84% for the hip and knee joints, respectively, hip involvement may demonstrate a more aggressive course to end-stage osteoarthritis than the knee involvement.

Mid-term results of hindfoot arthrodesis with a retrograde intra-medullary nail in 24 patients with diabetic Charcot neuroarthropathy.

Background and purpose - Hindfoot arthrodesis using retrograde intramedullary nailing assumes a critical role in limb salvage for patients with diabetic Charcot neuro-arthropathy (CN). However, this procedure is compelling and fraught with complications in diabetic patients. We report the mid-term clinical and radiological outcomes of retrograde intramedullary nailing for severe foot and ankle deformity in patients with diabetic CN.Patients and methods - Hindfoot arthrodesis was performed using a retrograde intramedullary nail in 24 patients (15 females) with diabetic Charcot foot. The mean age of the patients was 62 years (33-82); the mean follow-up was 45 months (24-70). The primary outcomes were rates of fusion, limb salvage, and complications.Results - The overall fusion rate was 23/24, and none of the patients needed amputation. The rate of superficial wound infection was 4/24, and no deep infection or osteomyelitis was observed postoperatively.Interpretation - For selected cases of diabetic CN with severe foot and ankle deformity, hindfoot arthrodesis using a retrograde intramedullary nail seems to be a good technique in achieving fusion, limb salvage, and avoidance of complications.

Comparison of sinus tarsi approach versus extensile lateral approach in the management of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures: A single-center study.

BACKGROUND: Controversy still exists for optimal treatment for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures (DIACFs). Conven-tionally, the extensile lateral approach (ELA) has been the most preferred approach. Although ELA provides excellent fracture access and direct evaluation of the depressed posterior facet, this approach has a high rate of serious complications, such as hematoma, superficial/deep infection, and wound healing issues. To overcome such complications, more minimally invasive techniques including external fixation, percutaneous fixation, arthroscopic assisted fixation, and sinus tarsi approach (STA) have been recently described. The primary aim of this study was to compare STA and LEA in the treatment of DIACFs. METHODS: Patients who were operated for DIACFs in our clinic were included in the study. Patients with closed DIACFs of Sanders Type II, III, IV, and over 18 years of age were identified. Physical examinations and radiological evaluations of the patients were per-formed, and clinical scores were filled. Patients were divided into subgroups according to the Sander's classification and comparisons were made again according to these subgroups. RESULTS: There were 37 patients (four female and 33 male) in STA group and 44 patients in LEA group (six female and 38 male). The mean age was 44.42±13.57 years (range, 18-61) for STA group and 37.32±11.09 years (range, 18-56) for the LEA group. In clinical outcomes, except for short-form survey (SF-12)/MCS-12 (Mental Score) and visual analog scale score, all the parameters were signifi-cantly better in STA group compared to LEA group. No significant difference was observed between the two groups in radiographic results, except for the Böhler angle. Significantly less infection occurred in the STA group compared to LEA group (P=0.021). According to Sander's classification, American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society, foot and ankle disability index, and SF-12/PCS-12 and foot function index scores, no significant differences were determined between STA and LEA groups for Sanders Type 2, whereas the values were considerably higher in STA group than in LEA group for Sanders Type 3 and 4. CONCLUSION: In DIACFs, STA is considered a safe and effective method for restoring the width, height, and length of the calca-neus and reconstruction of joint alignment and has now become our standard technique for all calcaneal fractures requiring operative treatment.

Determination of the safest level and screw length for the proximal locking screw in retrograde femoral nailing.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to identify the most reliable level for the proximal locking screw in retrograde femoral nails and to investigate the preoperative detectability of the length of the proximal locking screw by radiological measurements. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between April 2020 and June 2021, a total of 50 patients (42 males, 8 females; mean age: 38.1±14.3 years; range, 18 to 60 years) who were suspected of vascular injury after gunshot or stab wounds and underwent lower extremity computed tomography angiography (CTA) from the local institution's database were included in the study. The distances of the femoral neurovascular structures (FNVS) and sciatic nerve (SN) to the femur were measured in the sections determined in the anteroposterior and medial-lateral planes. The anteroposterior length of the femur was measured in selected sections to estimate the appropriate length of the proximal locking screw. RESULTS: The level at which FNVS and SN were closest to the femur in the medial-lateral plane was inferior to lesser trochanter (LT) 1 cm. The mean AP femur length at the level of the LT was 36.3±2.8 mm, at the level of inferior to LT 1 cm was 34.1±2.8 mm, at the level of superior to LT 1 cm was 38.6±3.7 mm. CONCLUSION: In retrograde femoral nailing, the safest level in terms of screw placement is 1 cm above the LT. Additionally, the optimal screw length is 40 mm at the level of the LT and 1 cm superior it, whereas it is 35 mm at the level of the LT and 1 cm inferior to it.

FIXATION METHODS IN LATARJET: BIOMECHANICAL COMPARISON OF SCREW TYPES AND PLATE FIXATION.

Objective: Latarjet procedure is often preferred in recurrent shoulder dislocations accompanied by glenoid bone loss. It is observed that the superiority of bone graft fixation methods is still controversial. The aim of this study is to biomechanically compare the bone graft fixation methods in the Latarjet procedure. Methods: 15 third-generation scapula bone models were divided into 3 groups. Graft was fixated in the first group with fully-threaded cortical screws of 3.5mm diameter, in the second group two 16 mm partially-threaded cannulated screws of 4.5mm diameter, and in the third group via a mini plate and screw. The hemispherical humeral head was placed on the tip of the cyclic charge device, and thus, the charge applied to the coracoid graft was homogeneous. Results: No statistically significant difference was found between paired comparisons (p>0.05). The forces in 5 mm displacement in total vary between 502-857N. Total stiffness measurements ranged between 105 and 625; the mean value was 258.13±53.54 with no statistically significant difference by groups (p = 0.958). Conclusion: This biomechanical study showed that there is no difference between three coracoid fixation options in terms of fixation strength. Unlike previous assumptions, plate fixation is not biomechanically superior to screw fixation. Surgeons should consider their personal preferences and experience in choosing fixation methods.

Objetivo: O procedimento Latarjet é normalmente preferencial em deslocamentos recorrentes do ombro acompanhados por perda óssea da glenóide. Observa-se que a superioridade dos métodos de fixação dos enxertos ósseos ainda é controversa. O objetivo deste estudo é comparar biomecanicamente os métodos de fixação de enxerto ósseo no procedimento Latarjet. Métodos: 15 modelos de escápulas de terceira geração foram divididos em 3 grupos. O enxerto foi fixado no primeiro grupo com parafusos corticais totalmente rosqueados com 3,5 mm de diâmetro, no segundo grupo com dois parafusos canulados parcialmente rosqueados de 16 mm de diâmetro de 4,5 mm e no terceiro grupo através de miniplaca e parafuso. A cabeça hemisférica umeral foi colocada na ponta do dispositivo de carga cíclica e, desta forma, a carga aplicada ao enxerto coracoide foi homogênea. Resultados: Nenhuma diferença estatisticamente significativa foi encontrada entre as comparações pareadas (p>0,05). As forças em 5 mm de deslocamento no total variam entre 502-857N. As medidas de rigidez total variaram entre 105 e 625 e o valor médio foi 258,13±53,54, sem diferença estatisticamente significativa por grupos (p = 0,958). Conclusão: Este estudo biomecânico mostrou que não há diferença entre três opções de fixação de coracoides em termos de resistência à fixação. Ao contrário de suposições anteriores, a fixação de placas não é biomecanicamente superior à fixação de parafusos. Os cirurgiões devem considerar suas preferências pessoais e sua experiência na escolha de métodos de fixação.

Clinical outcomes of three different techniques using adjustable-loop fixation in arthroscopic single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: A prospective randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Adjustable femoral suspensory fixation for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) become popular in recent years. The purpose of this study is to evaluate and compare the clinical outcomes of three different techniques using an adjustable-loop fixation in ACRL. METHODS: This study included 38 patients who underwent ACLR using the adjustable-loop device for femoral fixation between January 2018 and November 2021. All the participants were randomly assigned to a standard (group 1), retensioning (group 2), retensioning and knot tying (group 3). Clinical outcome parametres included Tegner - Lysholm Score, IKDC score, KT-1000 displacement and isokinetic muscle function tests. RESULTS: Overall, 38 patients (group 1: n = 13 [mean ± SD age, 30.1 ± 9.40 years]; group 2: n = 12 [mean ± SD age, 24.5 ± 7.79 years]; group 3 = 13 [mean ± SD age, 27.8 ± 6.59 years]) were included in the final analysis. The follow-up period was 9.7 ± 1.2; 9.5 ± 1.7 and 10 ± 1.5 months for groups 1, 2 and 3 respectively. From preoperatively to postoperatively, the mean Tegner-Lysholm scores improved significantly in all three groups (group 1: from 63.5 to 95.6; group 2: from 61.58 to 98.5; group 3: from 66.6 to 95.9, P < 0.0001 for all), as did the mean IKDC score (group 1: 53.9-88.8; group 2: 61.3-94.9; group 3: 60.7-94.6 (P < 0.0001 for all). CONCLUSION: The retensioning with or without knot-tying method is believed to increase stability in graft fixation. However, there were no significant differences in clinical outcomes in each technique.

A single dose of tranexamic acid infusion is safe and effective to reduce total blood loss during proximal femoral nailing for intertrochanteric fractures: A prospective randomized study.

BACKGROUND: Tranexamic acid (TXA) has been shown to reduce intraoperative bleeding and the need for post-operative allogenic blood transfusion requirement in surgery. In our randomized controlled study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of pre-operative 15 mg/kg intravenous TXA on total blood loss (TBL), hidden blood loss (HBL), and transfusion requirement in elderly patient group with intertrochanteric femoral fracture (ITFF) and treated with proximal femoral nailing (PFN). METHODS: Patients diagnosed with ITFFs (AO types 31-A1 and 31-A2) and treated using closed reduction and PFN was divided into two groups in our prospective randomized study. Group 1 (TXA group) was administered 15 mg/kg of TXA 15 min before the incision was made, after anesthesia was given, in the form of an IV infusion in 100 cc of saline. Group 2 (control group) was given only 100 cc of isotonic saline. The primary outcome of the study was TBL. The secondary outcomes were the number of transfusions, HBL, and the surgical (intraoperative) blood loss during the operative procedure and post-operative complications. The outcome values were compared between two groups. RESULTS: One hundred and two patients (51 patients in each group) were included in our study. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of their demographic characteristics and their pre-operative hemoglobin and hematocrit values. The mean TBL was statistically lower in the TXA group than in the control group (684.6±370.1 ml vs. 971.2±505.3 ml, respectively; p=0.002). The amount of intraoperative blood loss was not significantly different between two groups (102.4±59.3 ml in the TXA group vs. 112.7±90.1 ml in the control group, p=0.67). However, the mean estimated HBL was significantly lower in the TXA group than in the control group (582.3±341.2 ml vs. 857.8±493.1 ml, respectively; p=0.002). The post-operative blood transfusion rate and transfusion unit were found to be significantly lower in the TXA group than in the control group (8% vs. 23.5%, respectively [p=0.033], and 6 U vs. 15 U, respectively [p=0.04]). Both medical and surgical post-operative complications were found to be similar for two groups. CONCLUSION: Single dose of TXA significantly reduces TBL, HBL, and the need for blood transfusions following PFN in elderly patients with ITFFs, while it does not increase the risk of DVT or thromboembolic events.

A prospective evaluation of strength and endurance of ankle dorsiflexors-plantar flexors after conservative management of lateral malleolar fractures.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to evaluate patients with conservatively treated stable lateral malleolar fractures with isokinetic tests. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between January 2016 and November 2017, a total of 24 patients (12 males, 12 females; mean age 40.8±15.0 years; range, 18 to 68 years) with an isolated stable lateral malleolar fracture treated conservatively with the circular cast were included in this prospective study. Calf circumferences, ankle range of motion (ROM), pain levels, and functional outcomes were recorded. The muscle strengths and endurance of the injured side were compared with the non-injured side. All patients were evaluated by isokinetic test after removal of the cast, and three and six months after the rehabilitation period. RESULTS: The ROM was found to be lower after removal of the plaster cast, compared to the contralateral ankle. During cast removal, we also found that both dorsiflexor and plantar flexor muscle strength decreased by 25.6% and 44.7%, respectively, and decreased to 10.3% and 3.6% at three months post-rehabilitation. At the end of six months, no statistically significant difference was found between the two sides. In the dorsiflexion-plantar flexion endurance values, 37.8% and 54.1% deficit were detected before the rehabilitation protocol, respectively (p<0.05). At three months, these values decreased to 6.1% and 13.6%, respectively and the endurances of the injured sides surpassed the non-injured sides (p<0.05) at six months. CONCLUSION: Conservative management of stable isolated lateral malleolar fractures with circular cast causes atrophy and decreases strength-endurance of the calf muscles due to immobilization. These changes are expected to diminish over time and functional outcomes are excellent with a good rehabilitation program.

Repair Integrity and Functional Outcomes Between Knot-Tying and Knotless Suture-Bridge Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: Knot-tying suture-bridge (SB) rotator cuff repair may compromise the vascularity of the repaired tendon, causing tendon strangulation and medial repair failure. The knotless SB repair technique has been proposed to overcome this possibility and decrease retear rates. PURPOSE: To compare clinical and structural outcomes and retear patterns between the knot-tying and knotless SB techniques. We hypothesized that the knotless technique would result in lower retear rates owing to the preservation of intratendinous vascularity. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. METHODS: A total of 104 patients with full-thickness rotator cuff tears were randomly and prospectively allocated to undergo knot-tying (group 1) or knotless (group 2) SB repair. Clinical outcome measures included range of motion, the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, and the Constant score for function. Repair integrity was evaluated on magnetic resonance imaging scans using the Sugaya classification. Retears were also classified according to their pattern as type 1 (lateral) or type 2 (medial). RESULTS: Overall, 88 patients (group 1: n = 42 [mean ± SD age, 54.3 ± 9.8 years]; group 2: n = 46 [mean ± SD age, 55.8 ± 8.2 years]) were included in the final analysis. The mean ± SD follow-up period was 25.4 ± 8.3 and 23.3 ± 7.2 months for groups 1 and 2, respectively. From preoperatively to postoperatively, the mean VAS pain score improved significantly in both groups (group 1: from 7.4 ± 1.7 to 1.0 ± 1.7; group 2: from 7.1 ± 1.9 to 1.3 ± 2.0; P < .0001 for both), as did the mean ± SD Constant score (group 1: from 51.7 ± 13.4 to 86.0 ± 11.5; group 2: from 49.4 ± 18.4 to 87.2 ± 14.8; P < .0001 for both). There was no significant difference between the groups for the postoperative VAS or Constant score. The retear rate was not significantly different between the groups (19.0% [8/42] in group 1 and 28.3% [13/46] in group 2; P > .05). There was a significant difference in the type 2 failure rate (75.0% [6/8] in group 1 and 23.1% [3/13] in group 2; P = .03). CONCLUSION: Both techniques showed excellent improvement and comparable clinical outcomes, and there was no significant difference in retear rates. Consistent with previously published data, the type 2 failure rate was significantly higher with the knot-tying technique. REGISTRATION: NCT03982108 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).

The effect of intravenous tranexamic acid on visual clarity during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled pilot study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of intravenous (IV) tranexamic acid (TRX) use on visual clarity during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. METHODS: This prospective, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study was conducted in patients scheduled for an arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. In total, 60 patients were randomly distributed into two groups: control (28 patients: 11 male, 17 female; mean age=53 years, age range=19-65) and TRX (32 patients: 15 male, 17 female; mean age=50, age range=18-69). In the TRX group, the arthroscopy was performed through the bolus IV administration of 10 mg/kg TRX in 100 ml isotonic saline solution. In the control group, the arthroscopy was performed through the bolus IV administration of 100 ml isotonic saline solution. In both the groups, the IV administration was carried out after the induction of anesthesia. At the end of each procedure, the surgeon rated the visual clarity on a scale from 1 to 10. In addition, operation time (minutes), irrigation amount used in operation (lt), and the need of pressure increase because of bleeding were recorded. RESULTS: No adverse effects were seen during the study period. Visual clarity in TRX group was significantly better than the control group (the mean visual clarity scores=8.1/10 (range=7-10) vs 7/10 (range=5-9); p=0.018). The amount of solution was significantly less in the TRX group (10.2 lt (range=3.5-21)) than in the control group (15.8 lt (range=5.8-27); p=0.007, post-hoc power=95.7%), although the operation time was slightly longer in the TRX group (106 minutes (range=50-210)) than in the control group (99 minutes (range=45-165); p=0.24). Moreover, the need for the increase in pressure owing to bleeding was found significantly less in the TRX group (5.8 times (range=(0-9)) than in the control group (9.6 times (range=0-13); p=0.04, post-hoc power=94.5%). CONCLUSION: Preoperative IV TRX administration seems to be effective in improving visual clarity and reducing the need for high pressure and the amount of irrigation fluid during the arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II, Therapeutic study.

Abiotrophia defectiva as a Rare Causative Agent of Periprosthetic Total Knee Arthroplasty Infections: A Case Report and Literature Review.

We present a case of Abiotrophia defectiva in a prosthetic knee infection following total knee replacement for the first time. A 69-year-old female was prediagnosed with prosthetic knee infection, and a two-stage revision arthroplasty was applied. A. defectiva was cultured by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) from the synovial fluid aspirates. Penicillin G and gentamicin had been administered. One year postoperatively, a scintigraphy showed no recurrence. A. defectiva may be missed in culture negative patients with knee or hip arthroplasty. They should be carefully evaluated if they have undergone recent dental procedures.

Fixation methods in latarjet: biomechanical comparison of screw types and plate fixation / Métodos de fixação em latarjet: comparação de tipos de parafusos e fixação de placas

ABSTRACT Objective Latarjet procedure is often preferred in recurrent shoulder dislocations accompanied by glenoid bone loss. It is observed that the superiority of bone graft fixation methods is still controversial. The aim of this study is to biomechanically compare the bone graft fixation methods in the Latarjet procedure. Methods 15 third-generation scapula bone models were divided into 3 groups. Graft was fixated in the first group with fully-threaded cortical screws of 3.5mm diameter, in the second group two 16 mm partially-threaded cannulated screws of 4.5mm diameter, and in the third group via a mini plate and screw. The hemispherical humeral head was placed on the tip of the cyclic charge device, and thus, the charge applied to the coracoid graft was homogeneous. Results No statistically significant difference was found between paired comparisons (p>0.05). The forces in 5 mm displacement in total vary between 502-857N. Total stiffness measurements ranged between 105 and 625; the mean value was 258.13±53.54 with no statistically significant difference by groups (p = 0.958). Conclusion This biomechanical study showed that there is no difference between three coracoid fixation options in terms of fixation strength. Unlike previous assumptions, plate fixation is not biomechanically superior to screw fixation. Surgeons should consider their personal preferences and experience in choosing fixation methods.

RESUMO Objetivo O procedimento Latarjet é normalmente preferencial em deslocamentos recorrentes do ombro acompanhados por perda óssea da glenóide. Observa-se que a superioridade dos métodos de fixação dos enxertos ósseos ainda é controversa. O objetivo deste estudo é comparar biomecanicamente os métodos de fixação de enxerto ósseo no procedimento Latarjet. Métodos 15 modelos de escápulas de terceira geração foram divididos em 3 grupos. O enxerto foi fixado no primeiro grupo com parafusos corticais totalmente rosqueados com 3,5 mm de diâmetro, no segundo grupo com dois parafusos canulados parcialmente rosqueados de 16 mm de diâmetro de 4,5 mm e no terceiro grupo através de miniplaca e parafuso. A cabeça hemisférica umeral foi colocada na ponta do dispositivo de carga cíclica e, desta forma, a carga aplicada ao enxerto coracoide foi homogênea. Resultados Nenhuma diferença estatisticamente significativa foi encontrada entre as comparações pareadas (p>0,05). As forças em 5 mm de deslocamento no total variam entre 502-857N. As medidas de rigidez total variaram entre 105 e 625 e o valor médio foi 258,13±53,54, sem diferença estatisticamente significativa por grupos (p = 0,958). Conclusão Este estudo biomecânico mostrou que não há diferença entre três opções de fixação de coracoides em termos de resistência à fixação. Ao contrário de suposições anteriores, a fixação de placas não é biomecanicamente superior à fixação de parafusos. Os cirurgiões devem considerar suas preferências pessoais e sua experiência na escolha de métodos de fixação.

Periprostetic Joint Infection Caused by Salmonella: Case Reports of Two Azathioprine and Prednisolone Induced-immunocompromised Patients.

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) due to Salmonella is rare. It frequently occurs patients receiving immunosuppressive medicine. We describe two periprosthetic Salmonella infection of two immunocompromised patients. Both of patients were receiving azathioprine and prednisolone therapy. First patient presented six years after total hip arthroplasty with a huge abscess on her right thigh that was reached to femoral component through the lytic area of lateral femur. Second patient presented with drainage from his hip and he had undergone two-step revision surgery for PJI 3 months ago. There is no consensus in the treatment of periprosthetic salmonella infections. We prefer two-step revision surgery for these infections as previously described in the literature.

An Unusual Traumatic Presentation: Luxatio Erecta Humeri and Concomitant Hip Dislocation.

Introduction. Inferior dislocation of the glenohumeral joint, known as luxatio erecta humeri, and posterior hip dislocation are both rare presentations in the emergency department. The most common aetiology is falling for luxatio erecta humeri. The aim of this manuscript was to present a unique case in terms of luxatio erecta humeri, which has a different aetiology, treatment method, and concomitant injury. Presentation of Case. We report a construction worker who was rescued from a collapsed building who presented with both luxatio erecta humeri and complex posterior hip dislocation. An orthopaedic surgeon reducted luxatio erecta humeri with a one-step reduction technique under procedural anaesthesia as soon as the patient's vital signs were stable. Discussion. Different concomitant injuries and various injury mechanisms have been described in regard to inferior shoulder dislocation in the literature. However, posterior dislocation of the hip as a concomitant distant region injury and trapping as an injury mechanism for luxatio erecta humeri are being described for the first time in this case report. Two reduction manoeuvers, one-step and two-step, have been used for this dislocation. Some authors suggested that a two-step manoeuver can be more easy to apply. In our specific case, luxatio erecta was easily reducted by a single operator in a single attempt. Conclusion. Luxatio erecta humeri may occur from trapping and complex injuries can accompany luxatio erecta humeri in patients with multiple trauma. A one-step closed reduction can be easily applied by a single operator under procedural anaesthesia.