Ankle fractures with Chaput fragment: A new classification system with insights into morphology and relation to surgical treatment.

BACKGROUND: The Chaput fragment, a bony avulsion of the anterolateral margin of the distal tibia, is a less commonly discussed fracture pattern in ankle injuries. Its significance in ankle fractures and the optimal fixation technique remains unclear due to limited literature. This study aims to describe the morphology of ankle fractures with Chaput fragment and introduce a new classification system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 33 patients with ankle fractures with associated Chaput fragment treated at our institute over a 3-year period. Data on patient demographics, fracture classification, surgical approach, and fixation method were collected, and a novel classification system for Chaput fragments was proposed. RESULTS: Four distinct morphological types of Chaput fragment were identified (types 1-4), and three newer variants of trimalleolar fractures were identified (anterior, lateral, and medial variants). Type 1 refers to a small avulsion fragment attached to the anterior-inferior tibiofibular ligament; Type 2 is an anterolateral oblique type; Type 3 refers to an anterolateral fragment with extension into the medial malleolus and Type 4 is a comminuted Chaput fragment. Type 1 Chaput fragment was the most prevalent (60.6%), followed by Type 2 (24.3%), Type 4 (9.1%), and Type 3 (6.1%). The fixation methods ranged from screw fixation, plate fixation, and suture fixation to combinations of these techniques or even indirect stabilization with syndesmotic screws. CONCLUSION: Our new classification system based on morphology includes all possible variants of Chaput fracture. This preliminary data needs to be corroborated by more studies and validated by a larger number of observers.

A comparison of outcomes of locking versus non-locking plate fixation for the distal fibula fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: A locking plate (LP) or non-locking plate (NLP) can be used for distal fibula fracture fixation. However, the advantages of LP over NLP in patients with distal fibula fractures are not clear. In terms of indications, the role of the two plates probably differs; however, to draw comparative conclusions, we conceptualized this systematic review and meta-analysis of studies that directly compared the two plates, wherein both groups' indications and baseline parameters were similar. METHODS: An electronic literature search was performed using PubMed/Medline, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases for studies comparing the LP versus NLP fixation for the lateral malleolus fracture. A total of 18 studies were included in qualitative and quantitative analysis. A subgroup analysis was performed for patients aged < 55 years and patients aged > 55 years. The statistical analysis was performed by Review Manager Software version 5.4.1. RESULTS: A meta-analysis of 4243 fractures was performed across 18 studies. The rate of fracture union and overall complication rates did not differ between the two fixation groups with an OR of 0.71 (95% CI 0.26, 1.96, p = 0.51 and 1.11 (95% CI 0.84, 1.47, p = 0.47, respectively. There is no difference in the reoperation rate due to minor or major complications between the two groups. There was no difference in functional outcome (MD -0.85, with 95% CI -5.63, 3.93, p = 0.73), but NLP has a shorter surgical duration (MD 3.0, with 95% CI 0.26, 5.75, p = 0.03). A leave-one-out sensitivity analysis performed for overall complications affected the final outcome of the meta-analysis. CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis demonstrates no clear benefit in selecting LP over NLP for the fixation of lateral malleolus fractures.

The use of the femoral neck system (FNS) leads to better outcomes in the surgical management of femoral neck fractures in adults compared to fixation with cannulated screws: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Intracapsular femoral neck fractures are challenging to treat, with outcomes depending on the quality of reduction, and the stability of fixation. Cannulated cancellous screws (CCS) are the most commonly used implants to fix these fractures, but failure rates are significant. The recently introduced femoral neck system (FNS) may be a better option than CCS fixation and this review attempts to compare the results. METHODS: Four electronic databases were searched for eligible articles that had comparative data on the outcomes of fixation of adult femoral neck fractures with FNS and CCS. Data on various outcome parameters were collected. Meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model with 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS: Eight studies with 509 cases having a mean age of 50.8 years were included for final analysis. FNS was found to be associated with significantly reduced complication rates (p < 0.001), decreased incidence of postoperative femoral neck shortening (p < 0.001), quicker time to fracture union (p = 0.002), and better functional outcome scores (p < 0.001) compared to cannulated screws. FNS was also associated with a shorter operating time (mean difference 6.65 min) although not statistically significant (p = 0.24). CCS group had significantly reduced mean blood loss (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The available literature supports FNS as a better option for adult femoral neck fractures, with a lower complication rate, quicker union, and better clinical outcomes. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 3.

Long-term survival of CLS Spotorno femoral stem: a systematic review of literature.

BACKGROUND: CLS Spotorno is a time-tested femoral stem design with excellent early results; the present review was designed to assess the published evidence on CLS Spotorno stem in the literature to evaluate its long-term outcomes and compare it to two other popular stem designs the uncemented Corail™ and the cemented Exeter™ stems. RESEARCH QUESTION: Do CLS Spotorno stems provide adequate long-term rates of survival in terms of revisions and functional outcomes? METHODOLOGY: Medline, EMBASE and SCOPUS databases were searched for relevant articles and a total number of 670 hits were obtained, out of which 14 relevant studies were included in this review. Pooled analysis of revisions rates, subsidence and Harris Hip scores (HHS) were done. RESULTS: All the 14 studies were retrospective in design but had sufficiently large follow-up periods (12.3-27 years, mean 17.1 years). Of the 2459 hips reviewed, the documented revision rate was only 6.2%, with aseptic loosening reported in 3.1% and subsidence > 2 mm in 2.6% cases. The overall survival was similar to reported smaller cohorts of Corail (95% at 12 years) and Exeter stems (100% at 17 years). Varus malposition was seen in 10.6% cases, but it did not show any influence on implant survival or revision rates. Distal pedestal formation was seen in 172 of 805 hips across seven studies, while distal cortical hypertrophy was seen in 70 cases out of 398 hips; these were not related with stem malposition. The overall functional outcome was good, with mean HHS of 88.65 (95% CI = 86.08-91.23, p < 0.01). The improvement in scores from preoperative values (of 43.9 points) were comparable to Corail (43.8) and Exeter (45) stems. Thigh pain was seen in only 41 cases out of 1097 hips. CONCLUSION: Despite the limitations due to high heterogeneity of the cumulative data, the review suggests that CLS Spotorno femoral stems provides excellent long-term survival and good hip function. These outcomes are comparable to other commonly utilized femoral stems like the Corail and Exeter. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Influence of posterior malleolar fragment morphology on the outcomes of trimalleolar fractures: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Trimalleolar fractures are generally considered to have inferior outcomes among ankle injuries. Historically, emphasis was placed on the size of the posterior malleolar fracture (PMF) to guide surgical decision-making and predict outcomes. Recent studies have suggested that the morphology of the PMF fragment is more important than its size. The aim of this systematic review was to determine if the outcomes of trimalleolar fractures depend on the morphology of the PMF as per the Haraguchi classification system after surgical fixation. METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted in the electronic databases of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Ovid. Title and abstracts were screened, and data from eligible studies were extracted. Meta-regression and pooled analysis was performed using appropriate computer software. RESULTS: 11 studies with 597 patients were included in the final analysis. Pooled mean AOFAS score was 87.43 (95% CI 84.24-90.62) after a mean follow-up of 31.6 months. Univariate and multivariate meta-regression analysis demonstrated that as the percentage of Haraguchi type 1 patients increased, there was a statistically significant improvement in outcome scores. A similar trend was noted for Haraguchi type 3 fractures, and a reverse trend was observed for Haraguchi type 2 injuries, although neither were statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Our review suggests that the outcomes of trimalleolar fractures after surgical fixation may depend on the morphology of the PMF, with Haraguchi type 1 fractures having overall superior functional outcomes than Haraguchi type 2 and 3 injuries. Future studies need to done to conclusively prove or refute these findings.

Gross trunnion failure in metal on polyethylene total hip arthroplasty-a systematic review of literature.

BACKGROUND: Multiple cases of dissociation of the head from the neck termed as gross trunnion failure (GTF) in total hip replacement have been described. Very little quantitative data is available for patient and implant factors associated and predisposing to this complication. STUDY PURPOSE: To systematically review and analyze all studies which have gross trunnion failure in case of metal on polyethylene (MoP) total hip replacement. METHODS: PubMed database was searched. We also performed a secondary search by pearling bibliography of all full text articles obtained. Predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria were used for abstract screening by two independent observers. A total 46 cases met our inclusion criteria. These were included in the final analysis and data was pooled. RESULTS: Till date, 46 cases of GTF in MoP THR have been reported. The mean age at time of revision was 70.13 years (range 50 to 89 years). The mean time to revision surgery was 8.24 years (range 4.7 to 14 years). 91.4% cases were male. BMI was ≥ 25 in 38/41 cases and ≥ 30 in 21/41 cases. Pain (95.5%) and difficulty or inability to walk (97.7%) were the most common symptoms. A total of 19/44 cases described varying sounds like click, clunk, and pop before dislocation. Accolade TMZF/TMZF plus was the most common stem used in 34/46 cases. The stem neck angle was 127 degrees in 97% cases (32/33 cases). A positive neck offset of 4 mm or more was used in 91.1% cases (40/44 cases). The head size ≥ 36 mm in approximately 90% cases. The head material was cobalt chromium in all 45 cases, where data was available. Among the intra-operative findings, the most common findings were metallosis (41/44), black or brow coloured synovial fluid (21/44), pseudotumour (19/44), synovial hypertrophy (18/44), damage to the abductor musculature (17/44), proximal femoral osteolysis (5/44 cases), and heterotrophic ossification (2/44 cases). Histopathological analysis was available in 11 cases and was suggestive of fibrous tissue with chronic cellular infiltrate in all cases. The serum cobalt and chromium concentrations were raised above normal in 86.4% (19/22) and 21.7% cases (5/23) respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Gross trunnion failure may not be as uncommon as was previously thought. A number potential associations and predisposing factors of this complication have been highlighted in this review. But due to small sample size and weak level of evidence, further studies are needed in this field.

Proximal femoral nailing is superior to hemiarthroplasty in AO/OTA A2 and A3 intertrochanteric femur fractures in the elderly: a systematic literature review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures in the elderly require either fixation or joint sacrificing surgery; proximal femoral nail (PFN) and bipolar hemiarthroplasties (BPH) are the most common interventions. PFN is considered to be the ideal construct for these fractures; however, the usage of hemiarthroplasties to facilitate earlier mobilization has been on a rise. Currently there is no consensus on the superiority of one of these two techniques over the other and the present review was done to determine this. RESEARCH QUESTION: Is PFN a better alternative to BPH for unstable intertrochanteric femur fractures in the elderly? OBJECTIVE: The present systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to determine the superiority of PFN over BPH by comparing the primary outcomes like mortality, Harris Hip scores (HHS), complications, and re-operations. Additionally, secondary outcomes like blood loss, duration of surgery, and period of hospital stays were also compared. METHODOLOGY: Three databases of PubMed, EMBASE, and SCOPUS were searched for relevant articles that directly compared PFN and BPH in unstable intertrochanteric femur fractures in the elderly. RESULTS: We analyzed a total of seven studies published between the years 2005 to 2017. There were four retrospective and three prospective randomized controlled studies. The number of patients in these studies ranged from 53 to 303. PRIMARY OUTCOMES: There was a significant difference in HHS between two groups with standard mean difference of - 0.51 (range - 0.67 to -0.36), favouring the PFN group. The rate of mortality was higher in the BPH group with odds ratio of 2.07 (range 1.40-3.08). Implant-related complications like fractures and subsidence were more in BPH group but this was not significant. SECONDARY OUTCOMES: Mean surgical time (standard mean difference 2.19) and blood loss (3.75) were significantly less in the PFN group. The duration of hospital stay was also found to be significantly less in the PFN group (2.66). CONCLUSION: Proximal femoral nails are superior to bipolar hemiarthroplasties for unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures in the elderly. PFN imparts better functional outcomes and has lower rates of overall mortality. Additionally it is faster surgery, with lesser blood loss contributing to better results.

Role of PAX-7 as a tissue marker in mangled extremity: a pilot study.

The rising incidence of mangled extremity seen in modern trauma has lead to significant patient mortality. A lot of research is going on at microcellular level for a better understanding of tissue injury, repair and regeneration. PAX-7 is one such transcription factor, a marker of satellite stem cells in skeletal muscle. Though few studies have shown concrete evidence of increased expression of PAX-7 in the nearby injured zone in skeletal muscle post-injury, none has studied its expression in an event of mangled injury of limb in humans. We, hereby, attempted to identify whether PAX-7 expression of tissue near the zone of injury, after grievous trauma like mangled injury of extremities, actually increases, decreases or remains unaffected. A pilot study was conducted on 30 cases at a level 3 trauma centre; patients were segregated into two groups-group I with MESS score ≥ 7 and group II with score < 7. For group I patients, amputation was planned, and for group II, limb salvage surgery was planned. Skeletal muscle samples from three different zones (A, B and C) in group I, while pre- and post-debridement skeletal muscle samples in group II were sent for microscopic examination and IHC staining with PAX-7 antibody. A definite increase in PAX-7 expression, post-trauma near the zone of injury (Zone B and C in group I and post-debridement in group II), was noted. Increased expression of PAX-7 signifies increased recruitment of satellite stem cells near the injury zone, thereby reflecting the activation of skeletal muscle regeneration cascade. Hence, increased staining of PAX-7 in tissues could be a viable marker for identifying potential regeneration of skeletal muscle post-injury.

Comparative Impact of Nonpharmacological Interventions on Pain of Knee Osteoarthritis Patients Reporting at a Tertiary Care Institution: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

CONTEXT: Nonpharmacological interventions (NPIs) have been advocated for knee osteoarthritis (KOA). There are many gaps in the evidence to their efficacy in India. AIMS: The study aims to compare the impact of two packages of NPIs on various outcome variables of KOA patients. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: This was a randomized controlled trial in a tertiary care hospital. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A study population (n = 123) of KOA patients aged 40-65 years. Stratified block randomization was done for mild or moderate KOA into two groups. Group "A" patients received a package of NPIs including a set of supervised exercise sessions, kinesthesia, balance, and agility (KBA), meditation, weight reduction advice, and weekly telephonic reminders. Group "B" patients received the same package except for KBA & meditation. Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), visual analog scale (VAS) and performance-based measures were measured. ANALYSIS: t-test and repeat measures ANOVA were undertaken. RESULTS: A significant intragroup reduction in WOMAC score was seen from baseline in Group A (P = 0.00, mean difference: -9.7) as well as in Group B (P = 0.00, -12.9). There was also significant reduction inVAS scores at the end of intervention in Group A and Group B as compared from baseline (-3.62, -3.8, P = 0.00). No intergroup difference was observed in either of the scores. VAS score reduction to 0 at different stages of intervention was noticed in 46% (n = 57) cases. There was a significant intergroup difference for 50-Foot Walk Test (P = 0.055, F = 3.28) at 12 months. CONCLUSION: Both packages of NPIs were effective in providing relief in symptoms. No specific benefit of KBA or meditation was seen except for 50FWT.

Comparison of different routes of administration of clonidine for analgesia following anterior cruciate ligament repair.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: A high percentage of patients undergoing arthroscopic repairs on day care basis complain of inadequate postoperative pain relief. Clonidine was evaluated for the best route as an adjuvant in regional anesthesia in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) repair to prolong analgesia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A prospective randomized double-blinded study was planned in a tertiary care hospital in North India in which 85 American Society of Anesthesiologists I and II patients undergoing ACL repair were enrolled. All groups received 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine intrathecally as in control group C. Group IT received intrathecal 1 µg/kg of clonidine along with hyperbaric bupivacaine, group IA received 0.25% bupivacaine and 1 µg/kg clonidine intra-articularly, and group NB received 0.25% bupivacaine and 1 µg/kg clonidine in femoro-sciatic nerve block (FSNB). Postoperative pain free interval and block characteristics were the primary outcomes studied. RESULTS: Pain-free duration was 546.90 (±93.66) min in group NB (P < 0.001) in comparison to 234.90 (±20.99), 367.80 (±47.40) and 172.20 (±54.82) min in groups IA, IT and C, respectively. Sensory block and motor blockade in NB were 474.90 (±43.80) and 267.40 (±34.59) min, respectively, and were significantly prolonged (P > 0.001) in comparison to other groups. The mean rescue analgesic requirement and cumulative frequency of rescue analgesia were least in group NB, followed by groups IT, IA and C. CONCLUSION: Clonidine is safe and effective adjuvant with bupivacaine in prolonging analgesia through various routes employed for post knee surgery pain. The maximum prolongation of analgesia is achieved through FSNB with a risk of prolonging postanesthesia care unit stay.

Diagnosing osteoarticular tuberculosis and detecting rifampicin resistance: A comparative analysis of Truenat MTB Plus vs GeneXpert Ultra.

SETTING: Diagnosing osteoarticular tuberculosis (OATB) and detecting drug resistance is a challenge in an endemic country like India. OBJECTIVE: Truenat MTB Plus assay (TruPlus), a chip-based portable machine, was compared with GeneXpert Ultra (GxUltra) for diagnosing drug-resistant OATB. DESIGN: 115 synovial fluid and pus specimens [22 culture-positive confirmed, 58 culture-negative clinically-suspected, 35 non-TB controls] processed between 2017 and 2023 were subjected to TruPlus, GxUltra and multiplex-PCR for diagnosing OATB. They were further screened for rifampicin resistance using TruRif chip. The performance was evaluated against composite reference standard, phenotypic drug susceptibility testing and rpoB gene sequencing. RESULTS: TruPlus, GxUltra and MPCR detected 77.5 %, 71.25 %, and 83.75 %, cases of OATB, respectively. TruPlus detected five additional cases missed by GxUltra. The performance of TruPlus was comparable to GxUltra (p = 0.074) and to MPCR (p = 0.074), while performance of GxUltra was significantly inferior to MPCR (p = 0.004). The overall agreement with reference standard was substantial for TruPlus and MPCR and moderate for GxUltra. Both TruRif and GxUltra reported 4 cases as rifampicin resistant. CONCLUSION: TruPlus along with TruRif offers better sensitivity than GxUltra. Its compact and portable platform allows wider application in peripheral settings, thus making it a pragmatic solution for diagnosing OATB and its drug resistance.

Utility of three-dimensional printing in the surgical management of intra-articular distal humerus fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

BACKGROUND: Clinical outcomes after fixation of distal humerus intraarticular fractures are directly related to the quality of reduction. The use of three-dimensional (3D)-printed fracture models can benefit preoperative planning to ensure good reduction. This review aims to determine if surgery performed with 3D printing assistance are faster and result in fewer complications and improved clinical outcomes than conventional methods. We also outline the benefits and drawbacks of this novel technique in surgical management of distal humerus fractures. METHODS: A systematic literature search was carried out in various electronic databases. Search results were screened based on title and abstract. Data from eligible studies were extracted into spreadsheets. Meta-analysis was performed using appropriate computer software. RESULTS: Three randomized controlled trials with 144 cases were included in the final analysis. The 3D-printed group had significantly shorter mean operating time (mean difference, 16.25 minutes; 95% confidence interval [CI], 12.74-19.76 minutes; P<0.001) and mean intraoperative blood loss (30.40 mL; 95% CI, 10.45-60.36 mL; P=0.005) compared with the conventional group. The 3D-printed group also tended to have fewer complications and a better likelihood of good or excellent outcomes as per the Mayo elbow performance score, but this did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS: Three-dimensional-printing-assisted surgery in distal humerus fractures has several benefits in reduced operating time and lower blood loss, indirectly decreasing other complications such as infection and anemia-related issues. Future good-quality studies are required to conclusively demonstrate the benefits of 3D printing in improving clinical outcomes. Level of evidence: I.

Does the WHO Surgical Safety Checklist Need Modification for Orthopaedic Surgery Practices? A Cross-Sectional Survey Among Indian Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Background: It is well known that the implementation of the WHO surgical safety checklist (SSC) leads to improved operating room team coordination and reduced perioperative complication and mortality rates. Although it is proven to be beneficial worldwide, its awareness and usage need to be evaluated in a diverse country like India. As orthopaedic surgeries involve implants and tourniquet usage, it is important to evaluate the applicability of WHO SSC specifically to orthopaedic surgeries, and whether any modifications are needed. Materials and Methods: A web-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among Indian Orthopaedic Surgeons with a pre-defined questionnaire regarding awareness, usage and suggestions to modify the existing WHO SSC (2009) for orthopaedic surgeries. Results: 513 responses were included for final analysis. 90.3% of surgeons were aware of the surgical safety checklist; however, only 55.8% used it routinely in their practice. The awareness of SSC availability was 1.85 times more among younger surgeons (< 20 years of experience) than among those with > 20 years of experience. 17% of surgeons thought the usage of SSC was time-consuming and 52.4% of participants felt a need to modify the existing WHO SSC (2009) for orthopaedic surgeries. 34.5% recommended the inclusion of the patient blood group in the "Sign-in" section, 62.77% proposed the inclusion of details about the tourniquet, whereas only 6.63% suggested adding about surgical implant readiness in the "Time-out" section and 72.7% suggested including a check to make sure the tourniquet was deflated, removed and also recording of the total usage time during the "Sign-out" section. Conclusion: Despite high (90%) awareness among Indian Orthopaedic surgeons, they have limited usage of the WHO SSC in their practice. Identifying barriers and considering modifications for orthopaedic surgeries, like details about tourniquet usage during the "Time-out" section and a check to ensure it was removed during the "Sign-out" section, will improve patient safety and outcomes. Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43465-024-01096-5.

Comparison of Conventional Dose Versus Superdose Platelet-Rich Plasma for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Prospective, Triple-Blind, Randomized Clinical Trial.

Background: Confusion persists regarding the ideal dosage of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection for knee osteoarthritis (OA). Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose of the study was to compare the efficacy of 2 different single-injection PRP dosages in patients with early knee OA-a conventional 4 mL dose and a superdose of 8 mL. It was hypothesized that 8 mL of PRP would be superior to 4 mL of PRP in this patient population. Study Design: Randomized clinical trial; Level of evidence, 1. Methods: Patients with early knee OA (Kellgren-Lawrence grades 1 and 2) who met the inclusion criteria were randomly divided into 2 groups: Group A (n = 50 knees) received a 4-mL PRP injection, and group B (n = 49 knees) received an 8-mL PRP injection, both prepared using the same procedure. Patients were evaluated at the baseline, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC), the WOMAC-Pain subscale, the visual analog scale for pain, the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, and patient satisfaction, and results were compared between the groups. Results: The baseline characteristics of the 2 groups were comparable (group A: mean age, 51.96 ± 6.93 years; group B: mean age, 49.12 ± 9.8 3 years). Leucocyte-depleted PRP with 3.5 times concentration (final product platelet concentration, 706.74 × 103-µL) was injected. The mean absolute platelet count injected was 2.82 ± 0.0012 billion in group A and 5.65 ± 0.0022 billion in group B. All patient-reported outcome scores improved significantly in both groups from the baseline to the final follow-up (P < .001), with overall trends and results significantly better in group B than in group A (P < .001). Patient satisfaction at the 6-month follow-up was also better in group B (96%) compared with group A (68%). Short (2 to 7 days) self-limiting complications, such as pain and stiffness, occurred more often in group B (P < .001). Conclusion: Patients with early knee OA had significantly better improvement in pain and function when treated with an 8-mL injection of PRP compared with a 4-mL injection of PRP. The larger dose of PRP had approximately twice the number of platelets. Registration: CTRI/2020/02/023403 (Clinical Trials Registry-India identifier).

Is There a Need for an Exogenous Activator Along with PRP for Early Knee Osteoarthritis? A Triple-Blinded Randomized Control Trial.

Background: In addition to other variables associated with PRP injections for Knee Osteoarthritis (OA), some confusion exists about the role of exogenous activators. The current study looks at matched groups getting PRP injections with or without activator (Calcium gluconate) in early knee OA patients. Methods: Patients of early OA knee meeting inclusion criteria were randomly divided into 2 groups; Group A (43 patients) received 8 ml PRP injection alone, and Group B (48 patients) received 8 ml PRP along with 2 ml Calcium gluconate as activator. The patients were evaluated at baseline, 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months for WOMAC Pain and Total WOMAC scores; secondary variables assessed were VAS score and patient satisfaction. Results: The baseline characteristics of both groups were comparable. Leucocyte-depleted PRP with 5 times concentration and average absolute platelet numbers of 7.144 billion per knee was injected. Mean Pain WOMAC scores decreased in both groups from baseline (group A-8.68, group B-9.09) to final follow-up (group A-4.67, group B-5.11). Similarly, Mean Total WOMAC scores decreased from baseline (group A-37.81, group B-37.41) to (group A-21, group B-21.36) at the final follow-up in both groups. There was no significant difference between both groups, and both showed similar trends. Similar findings were noted for VAS scores. Patient satisfaction was also not different (group A, 90.69%, group B, 89.58%) at the end of 6 months. Conclusion: Our study concluded doubtful role of adding exogenous activator to PRP preparation. Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43465-024-01159-7.

Chondroprotective Effects of a Single PRP Injection in a Spontaneous Osteoarthritis Model of Dunkin Hartley Guinea Pig: An Immunohistochemical Analysis.

Purpose of the Study: The evaluation of anti-apoptotic and chondroprotective properties of a single injection of PRP using immunohistochemistry (IHC). Methods: This was a placebo-controlled blinded experimental study. Ten healthy Dunkin Hartley guinea pigs were selected. One knee of each animal was injected with a single injection of PRP (Group A); the contralateral knee acted as a control and was injected with a single injection of normal saline (Group B). These groups were further divided into A3 and B3 based on the timeline of animal sacrifice (3 months) and A6 and B6 (6 months). The formalin-preserved articular cartilage blocks were subjected to IHC to stain Aggrecan, Caspase-3, and Collagen-2. Results: The mean IHC score was significantly low for Caspase-3 (p-0.029) in intervention group (A3) in comparison to placebo control group (B3) pointing towards decreased apoptosis. The mean IHC values were significantly higher for Collagen II (p-0.011) for intervention group (A6) in contrast to control group (B6); values were also significantly low for Caspase-3 (p-0.029) in A6 as compared to B6. The mean Caspase-3 values were significantly higher in A6 as compared to A3 (p-0.029). Conclusion: The impact of a solitary injection of PRP on upregulation of anabolic pathways inside cartilage is relatively slower as compared to its effect on downregulation of apoptotic pathways. Even a single PRP injection holds the potential to change cartilage microenvironment, but the effects are not long lasting.

Quadriceps tendon autograft is promising with lower graft rupture rates and better functional Lysholm scores than hamstring tendon autograft in pediatric ACL reconstruction. A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Purpose: Graft rupture is the most prevalent complication following pediatric anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The hamstring tendon (HT) autograft is frequently employed, while the quadriceps tendon (QT) autograft has garnered increased attention recently. This study aims to perform a systematic review to assess the complication rates and functional outcomes associated with these two widely used autografts in skeletally immature patients - comparing HT versus QT autografts. Research question: Is QT autograft better than HT autograft for ACLR in skeletally immature cohorts? Methodology: Three electronic databases (PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Ovid) were comprehensively searched to identify pertinent articles reporting the outcomes of HT and QT autografts in pediatric ACLR with a minimum 2-year follow-up. Data on the outcome parameters, such as graft rupture rates, contralateral ACL injury rates, functional outcomes, and growth disturbances rates, were extracted. Meta-analysis was performed using OpenMeta Analyst software. Results: Twelve studies were included for meta-analysis (pooled analysis) with 659 patients (QT: 205; HT: 454). The analysis showed that QT autografts had a significantly lesser graft rupture rate than HT autografts (3.5 % [95 % CI 0.2, 6.8] and 12.4 % [95 % CI 6.1, 18.7] respectively, p < 0.001). The graft rupture rates between QT with bone and without bone block showed no statistically significant difference (4.6 % [95 % CI 0.8, 1.0] and 3.5 % [95 % CI 2.0, 8.9] respectively, p = 0.181). The overall contralateral ACL injury rate was 10.2 %, and the subgroup analysis revealed no statistically significant difference between the QT and HT groups (p = 0.7). Regarding functional outcome scores at the final follow-up, the mean Lysholm score demonstrated a significant increase in the QT group compared to the HT group (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences between the two groups concerning growth disturbances at the final follow-up. Return to sports (RTS) varied between 6 and 13.5 months after surgery. Conclusion: QT autografts demonstrate encouraging outcomes, showcasing lower graft rupture rates, better functional outcomes, and comparable contralateral ACL injury rates and growth disturbances relative to the commonly used HT autograft in skeletally immature patients undergoing ACLR.

Lateral parasagittal versus midline interlaminar lumbar epidural steroid injection for management of low back pain with lumbosacral radicular pain: a double-blind, randomized study.

BACKGROUND: Epidural steroid injections are commonly used for management of low back pain with lumbosacral radicular pain and can be administered by either interlaminar or transforaminal routes. The transforaminal route is reported to be more effective than the interlaminar route due to higher delivery of drug at the ventral epidural space. However, the transforaminal route has been associated with serious complications including spinal cord injury and permanent paralysis. Hence, there is a search for a technically better route with fewer complications for drug delivery into the ventral epidural space. Recently, a parasagittal interlaminar (PIL) approach of epidural contrast injection was reported to have 100% ventral epidural spread. However, the therapeutic efficacy of this route has never been investigated. We compared the therapeutic efficacy of the PIL approach and midline interlaminar (MIL) approach. We hypothesized that the PIL approach may produce a better clinical outcome because of better ventral epidural spread of the drug compared with MIL approach. METHODS: Thirty-seven patients were randomized to receive injection of 80 mg methylprednisolone either by the PIL (PIL group, n = 19) or MIL (MIL group, n = 18) approach under fluoroscopic guidance. Patients were evaluated for effective pain relief (≥50% from baseline) by visual analog scale and improvement in disability by the modified Oswestry Disability Questionnaire at intervals of 15 days, 1, 2, 3, and 6 months. Patients having <50% pain relief from baseline received additional epidural injection of the same drug, dosage, and route, a maximum of 3 injections at least 15 days apart. The primary outcome of our study was the incidence of effective pain relief at 6 months. RESULTS: The incidence of patients having effective pain relief was higher with the PIL approach (13/19 [68.4%]) vs MIL (3/18 [16.7%]) at the end of 6 months. A significantly higher relative success of effective pain relief was noted in the PIL group (relative risk, 4.10; 95% confidence interval, 1.40-12.05; P = 0.001) at the end of the 6-month follow up with the requirement of fewer total injections (29 vs 41 in MIL, P = 0.043). Visual analog scale and modified Oswestry Disability Questionnaire scores were significantly lower in the PIL group compared with the MIL group at all time intervals after the procedure. Ventral epidural spread of contrast was significantly higher in the PIL 89.7% vs 31.7% in the MIL group. The administration of epidural steroid injection was without any complications with an exact 95% Clopper-Pearson confidence interval of 0.0% to 17.6% in the PIL group and 0.0% to 18.5% in the MIL group. CONCLUSIONS: Epidural steroid injection administered with the PIL approach was significantly more effective for pain relief and improvement in disability than the MIL approach for 6 months in the management of low back pain with lumbosacral radicular pain.

Surgical technique: Simple technique for removing a locking recon plate with damaged screw heads.

BACKGROUND: The introduction of locking plates in the treatment of periarticular fractures was a major breakthrough in orthopaedic evolution. Removal of these implants is extremely difficult as a result of cold welding and stripping of screw heads. DESCRIPTION OF TECHNIQUE: A 31-year-old man had a schwannoma of the left C5-C6 nerve roots and upper trunk of the brachial plexus. One year before presentation he had undergone excision of the lesion through an approach using a clavicular osteotomy. The osteotomy had been fixed with a titanium locking recon plate. While surgically removing the implant, only one screw could be removed. The remaining five screws could not be turned owing to cold welding; repeated attempts at removing the screws damaged the screw heads. A large bolt cutter was used to cut the plate between the holes, and the resulting rectangular sections with the screws then were unscrewed from the bone. REVIEW OF LITERATURE: Limited literature is available regarding techniques for locking screw removal. These include using a carbide drill bit or diamond-tipped burr, high-speed disc, or conical extraction screw. CONCLUSIONS: Not all centers have specialized instruments such as carbide drill bits to remove screw heads, but a large bolt cutter usually is available when screws cannot be unscrewed owing to cold welding. The technique of cutting is easily reproducible and does not require additional soft tissue stripping.