Minimally invasive reconstruction of acute acromioclavicular joint injuries using the TwinBridge button system.

INTRODUCTION: Acute acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) injuries are among the most common shoulder injuries in active young adults. The most frequently used surgical treatments include the hook plate implantation and arthroscopic treatment using flip-button systems. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of treating acute ACJ injuries using a new minimally invasive implant based on a flip-button system. MATERIAL AND METHODS: From January 2016 to October 2019, a total of 20 patients with acute ACJ injuries (1 × Type III, 3 × Type IV, 16 × Type V) underwent surgery using the Twinbridge implant (Smith & Nephew). It is a prefabricated construct consisting of two Endobuttons connected with an UltraTape. One button is placed under the coracoid using a special aiming device and two buttons are placed on the clavicle. Preoperatively, 1 day postoperatively, 3 months and at least 1 year postoperatively, patients were clinically examined and bilateral stress view and axial radiographs were obtained. At final follow-up, the simple shoulder test (SST), Taft score, Constant score, and ACJ instability (ACJI) score were recorded and a side-to-side ratio of the coracoclavicular (CC) distance was calculated. RESULTS: All 20 patients were contacted at final follow-up at a mean of 28 (min. 13, max 50) months. Six patients were not willing to come for a clinical and radiographic examination and were contacted via telephone. All six patients were free of complaints. Another two patients free of complaints refused radiographs at final follow-up. The patients presented a mean SST of 99.6% (20 patients, min. 91.7, max. 100), Taft score of 11.6/12 points (12 patients, min. 10, max. 12), ACJI of 85.5/90 points (12 patients, min. 78, max. 90), and a Constant score of 97.1 (14 patients, min. 81.0, max. 100) for the affected shoulder. Preoperative stress view images revealed a mean side-to-side difference of the CC distance with a ratio of 1:2.34 (min. 1:1.80, max. 1:3.33). At final follow-up, CC distance was calculated with a mean ratio of 1:1.12 (min. 1.1, max. 1:1.38). Axial images showed a proper position in all cases. A "perfect" radiological result was achieved in six patients (50%) with a side-to-side CC distance of less than 10% (ratio 1:1.1 or less). A Rockwood type II result was achieved in five patients (42%) with a distance of 10 to 25% (ratio 1.11-1.25). One (8%) presented with a Rockwood type III result with a difference of more than 25% (ratio 1:1.38) and was considered a radiological failure. CONCLUSIONS: When used correctly, the Twinbridge implant offers good-to-excellent clinical and radiographic results using a minimally invasive surgical technique. Complication rate is comparable to other button-systems.

Germany has a high demand in meniscal allograft transplantation but is subject to health economic and legal challenges: a survey of the German Knee Society.

PURPOSE: To determine the current status and demand of meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) in Germany among members of the German Knee Society (= Deutsche Kniegesellschaft; DKG). METHODS: An online survey was conducted between May 2021 and June 2021 and sent to all members of the DKG. The survey questionnaire consisted of 19 questions to determine the demand and technical aspects of MAT among the participants and to identify areas of improvement in MAT in Germany. RESULTS: Overall, 152 participants, 136 (89.5%) from Germany, 8 (5.3%) from Switzerland, 6 (4.0%) from Austria, and 2 (1.3%) from other countries completed the online survey, with the majority working in non-academic institutions. According to the regulations of the DKG, 87 (57.2%) participants were board certified as specialized knee surgeons and 97 (63.8%) worked primarily in the field of orthopedic sports medicine. MAT was considered clinically necessary in Germany by 139 (91.5%) participants. Patient age (83.6%), post-meniscectomy syndrome in isolated lateral (79.6%) and medial (71.7%) meniscus deficiency, and functional and athletic demands (43.4%) were the most important determinants to consider MAT in patients. Participants reported that reimbursement (82.9%), jurisdiction over the use of donor grafts (77.6%), and the availability of meniscal allografts (76.3%) are the main challenges in performing MAT in Germany. The most frequently used meniscal allograft types by 54 (35.5%) participants who had already performed MAT were fresh-frozen grafts (56.6%), peracetic acid-ethanol sterilized grafts (35.9%), and cryopreserved grafts (7.6%). Participants reported to perform suture-only fixation more often than bone block fixation for both medial (73.6% vs. 22.6%) and lateral (69.8% vs. 24.5%) MAT. CONCLUSION: More than 90% of the responding members of the DKG indicated that MAT is a clinically important and valuable procedure in Germany. Reimbursement, jurisdiction over the use of donor grafts, and the availability of meniscal allografts should be improved. This survey is intended to support future efforts to facilitate MAT in daily clinical practice in Germany. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level V.

[Posterior meniscus root tears]. / Posteriore Wurzelverletzungen der Menisken.

Meniscus root tears are radial tears in the region of the posterior insertion zones. Medial root injuries usually occur in individuals > 50 years of age without adequate trauma and are associated with obesity and varus deformities. The root lesion leads to a loss of ring tension, which results in extrusion of the meniscus and a strong increase in joint pressure that is biomechanically equivalent to a complete meniscectomy. When indicating arthroscopic transosseous refixation of the medial root lesion, factors such as accompanying cartilage damage, osteoarthritis, obesity and varus deformity must be taken into account. Injuries to the root of the lateral meniscus are mostly observed in younger patients in combination with a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament. Arthroscopic transosseous refixation in combination with cruciate ligament surgery is therefore also recommended for type I and type II lesions. In summary, both the medial and the lateral root lesions of the menisci are injuries with high biomechanical relevance.

ACL reconstruction with quadriceps tendon graft and press-fit fixation versus quadruple hamstring graft and interference screw fixation - a matched pair analysis after one year follow up.

BACKGROUND: The objective of the study was to compare the results of a primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) using the press-fit fixation technique for a quadriceps tendon (QT) graft to a standard quadrupled hamstring (HT) graft with interference screw fixation. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study with a 12-month follow up provided data for 92 patients. Exclusion criteria were accompanying ligament injuries and contralateral ACL injury. Patients who suffered a graft failure, which was defined as a side-to-side difference of > 3 mm, or infection were rated 'D' according to the IKDC and excluded from further evaluation. Forty-six patients underwent primary ACLR using the press-fit fixation technique for autologous bone QT graft. These patients were matched in terms of age, gender, accompanying meniscus tear and cartilage injury to 46 patients who underwent standard HT graft with interference screw fixation. Patients were evaluated according to the Lachman test, Pivot-Shift test, IKDC score, Tegner score, Rolimeter measurements, one-leg hop test, thigh circumference and donor side morbidity. RESULTS: No significant differences in Tegner score (p = 0.9), subjective or objective IKDC score (p = 0.9;p = 0.6), knee stability (Lachman Test p = 0.6; Pivot-Shift Test p = 0.4; Side-to-Side Difference p = 0.4), functioning testing (One-Leg Hop Test p = 0.6; Thigh Circumference p = 0.4) or donor side morbidity (p = 0.4) were observed at the follow up. The Lachman test was negative for 85% of the QT group and 83% of the HT group. The Pivot Shift Test was negative for 80% of the QT group and 85% of the HT group. The mean side-to-side difference was 1.6 ± 0 .2mm in both groups. The one-leg hop test revealed a collateral-side jumping distance of 96.2 ± 8.5% for the QT group and 95.5 ± 8.5% for the HT group. The thigh circumference of the injured leg was 98.3 ± 3.0% on the uninjured side in the QT group and 99.7 ± 3.0% in the HT group. A knee walking test resulted in no discomfort for 90% of the QT group and 85% of the HT group. The graft failure rate was 7.3% in the QT group and 9.8% in the HT group. CONCLUSION: QT grafts fixated using the press-fit technique are a reliable alternative for primary ACL surgery.

Vancomycin pre-soaking of the graft reduces postoperative infection rate without increasing risk of graft failure and arthrofibrosis in ACL reconstruction.

PURPOSE: To investigate whether pre-soaking the graft in vancomycin during anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) reduces the postoperative infection rate and if this technique is associated with an increased rate of complications, including graft failure or arthrofibrosis. METHODS: A retrospective review of a prospective database was performed in 1779 patients who underwent ACLR over a period of 5 years, analysing the rate of postoperative deep knee infection. Group 1 and 2 both received perioperative IV antibiotics, while only group 2 underwent ACLR with grafts pre-soaked in a 5 mg/ml vancomycin solution. To analyse possible side effects associated with vancomycin use, 500 patients out of the overall study population (100 patients per year) were randomly selected and retrospectively interviewed for further postoperative complications including graft failure and arthrofibrosis as well as subjective evaluation of their knee by completing the IKDC form with a minimum mean follow-up of 37 months. RESULTS: In group 1, 22 out of 926 (2%) patients suffered a postoperative deep knee infection. In contrast, there were no postoperative infections in the second group of 853 patients (0%). 16 of 22 infections (73%) were caused by coagulase-negative Staphylococcus. Statistical analysis revealed a significantly reduced postoperative infection rate when bathing the autograft in vancomycin (p < 0.01). Analysis of the random sample revealed a significant decrease of graft failure with 8 reruptures in 257 patients (3%) in the vancomycin group compared to 16 cases of graft failure in 167 patients (10%) in the control group (p < 0.05). No differences were found in the rate of postoperative arthrofibrosis, Tegner or subjective outcome scores. CONCLUSION: Prophylactic vancomycin pre-soaking of autografts during ACLR appears to be a viable, cost-effective and safe option to reduce the rate of deep infection compared to systemic antibiotics alone. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Epidemiology of injuries in judo: a cross-sectional survey of severe injuries based on time loss and reduction in sporting level.

BACKGROUND: Sport injury severity can be detected by duration of time loss and reduction of sporting performance. AIM: To detect injury type-specific time loss duration and sporting performance reduction in judo. METHODS: An online survey of active and former judo athletes was conducted (exclusion criterion: incomplete questionnaire). Only injuries causing more than 3 weeks' time loss were recorded. Athletes classified themselves into performance classes. Injury type-specific frequencies were recorded according to gender, age and performance level. Injury severity was assessed by time loss duration and performance reduction. RESULTS: The study included 4659 athletes (65% male, 38% competitive sports). The most commonly injured body regions were the upper extremity (41%) and the lower extremity (39%). Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures were the most severe injury type (time loss: 4% of cases 3-6 weeks, 6% 6-12 weeks, 26% 3-6 months, 32% 6-9 months, 18% 9-12 months, 14%>12 months; performance reduction: 32% same level, 39% slightly reduced, 24% strongly reduced, 5% stopped judo). The second most severe type of injury was a vertebral disc prolapse (time loss: 26% 3-6 weeks, 31% 6-12 weeks, 20% 3-6 months, 7% 6-9 months, 3% 9-12 months 13%>12 months; reduction of sporting performance: 39% same level, 34% slightly reduced, 20% strongly reduced, 8% stopped judo). CONCLUSION: Across genders and performance levels, ACL ruptures and vertebral disc prolapses were the most severe injuries with respect to time loss and sporting performance reduction.

Differences in acromial morphology of shoulders in patients with degenerative and traumatic supraspinatus tendon tears.

PURPOSE: Distinct characteristics of acromial morphology seem to be one factor for the development of degenerative supraspinatus tendon tears. Thus, it is questionable whether patients with traumatic tendon tears also present these parameters. The hypothesis of the present study was that the acromial morphology of patients with degenerative supraspinatus tendon tears differs from patients with traumatic tears. METHODS: One hundred and thirty-six patients that were treated by arthroscopic rotator cuff repair from 2010 to 2013 were included in this study. Seventy-two patients had degenerative (group 1), and 64 had traumatic (group 2) supraspinatus tendon tears. On preoperative radiographs the Bigliani type, acromial slope, acromiohumeral (AH) distance, lateral acromial angle (LAA), acromion index (AI), and critical shoulder angle (CSA) were measured. Medians of these parameters as well as of age of both groups were compared using the t test. RESULTS: The percentaged distribution of the Bigliani type differed (group 1 vs. 2: type 1: 18/38, type 2: 56/55, type 3: 26/8). All parameters showed significant differences between degenerative and traumatic tears. Slope: 21.2° (SD 7.6°) versus 19.2° (SD 7.9°, p = 0.026), AH distance: 8.4 mm (SD 2.3 mm) versus 9.9 mm (SD 1.9 mm, p = 0.0006), LAA: 77.0° (SD 4.0°) versus 82.5° (SD 4.7°, p < 0.0001), AI: 0.77 (SD 0.07) versus 0.73 (0.06, p = 0.0239), and CSA: 36.8° (SD 3.6°) versus 35.3° (SD 2.9°, p = 0.007). An LAA <70° or an AH distance of <5 mm only occurred in degenerative tears. Patients with degenerative tears were significantly older (60 vs. 54 years). CONCLUSIONS: The hypothesis that the acromial morphology of patients with degenerative supraspinatus tendon tears differs from patients with traumatic tears was confirmed. Shoulders with degenerative tears show a narrower subacromial space and a larger lateral extension as well as a steeper angulation of the acromion than with traumatic tears. Thus, the results of this study support the theory of external impingement as a cause for degenerative rotator cuff tears. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Moderate value of non-contrast magnetic resonance imaging after non-dislocating shoulder trauma.

PURPOSE: The purpose of the present study was to determine the value of shoulder magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) obtained in the community setting interpreted by musculoskeletal radiologists in patients with shoulder pain initiated by a single non-dislocating shoulder trauma. METHODS: In 56 of 61 consecutive patients who underwent shoulder arthroscopy due to pain after a single non-dislocating shoulder trauma, the data sets of non-contrast MRI were complete. These were retrospectively interpreted by three radiologists specialized on musculoskeletal MRI who were blinded for patients' history and who did not have access to the reports of arthroscopy. Standard evaluation forms were used to assess the MRIs for superior labrum anterior and posterior (SLAP) lesions, anterior or posterior labrum lesions, lesions of the long head of biceps tendon (LHB) and for partial tears of the supraspinatus tendon and the upper quarter of the subscapularis tendon. Quality of the MRI was assessed by each radiologist on a four-point scale. RESULTS: The pooled sensitivity for the three radiologists for the detection of SLAP lesions was 45.0 %, for anterior or posterior labrum tears 77.8 and 66.7 %, for lesions of the LHB 63.2 % and for partial tears of the supraspinatus or subscapularis tendon tears 84.8 and 33.3 %. Corresponding inter-rater reliabilities were poor (SLAP lesions) to substantial (anterior labrum tears). Quality of MRI only influenced the accuracy for the detection of posterior labrum tears. CONCLUSION: A non-contrast shoulder MRI obtained in the community setting after non-dislocating shoulder trauma has a moderate sensitivity for most intraarticular pathologies when interpreted by musculoskeletal radiologists. Accuracy is dependent on the observer and not on the assessed quality. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Case series, Level IV.

Management of shoulder instability: the current state of treatment among German orthopaedic surgeons.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to evaluate the current state of treatment in traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation in Germany and to detect changes over the last 12 years. METHODS: Seven hundred ninety-six trauma and/or orthopaedic departments were found in the German hospital directory 2012. The websites of each department were searched for the email address of the responsible shoulder surgeon (if applicable) or the head of the department. Seven hundred forty-six email addresses were found, and emails with the request to participate in an online survey were sent in January 2013. Six hundred seventy-five emails probably reached the correct addressee. Seventy-one emails were rejected, and no contact could be made. One-hundred ninety-one (28 %) participated in the study. The data were compared to similar data from a survey on shoulder dislocation performed in the same department and published in 2001. RESULTS: After the first-time traumatic shoulder dislocation in patients aged younger than 30 years participating in sports, 14 % of the participants would prefer conservative treatment, 83 % arthroscopic, and 3 % open surgery. When surgery was indicated, arthroscopic Bankart repair was the treatment of choice for 93 % of the participants. In 2001, 27 % had indicated conservative treatment after the first-time shoulder dislocation in active patients younger than 30 years. When surgery was indicated, 66 % had performed arthroscopic and 34 % open stabilization. For the standard arthroscopic Bankart repair without concomitant injuries, 41 % of the participants use two and 54 % three suture anchors. Knotless anchors were preferred by 72 %. In the case of glenoid bone loss greater than 25 %, only 46 % perform a procedure for glenoid bone augmentation. Fifteen percent of the participants always recommended immobilization in external rotation after traumatic first-time shoulder dislocation. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of participants recommend arthroscopic Bankart repair with two or three suture anchors in young persons with the first-time dislocations. Compared to 2001 less recommend conservative treatment, complex "open" surgical procedures are no longer used. The knowledge that a Bankart procedure likely fails in significant glenoid bone loss is not implemented in the clinical practice. Thus, there is a need to educate surgeons on this topic.

Press-fit fixation using autologous bone in the tibial canal causes less enlargement of bone tunnel diameter in ACL reconstruction--a CT scan analysis three months postoperatively.

BACKGROUND: Bone tunnel enlargement is a phenomenon present in all anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)- reconstruction techniques. It was hypothesized that press-fit fixation using a free autograft bone plug reduces the overall tunnel size in the tibial tunnel. METHODS: In a prospective cohort study twelve patients who underwent primary ACL reconstruction using an autologous quadriceps tendon graft and adding a free bone block for press-fit fixation (PF) in the tibial tunnel were matched to twelve patients who underwent ACL reconstruction with a hamstring graft and interference screw fixation (IF). The diameters of the bone tunnels were analysed by a multiplanar reconstruction technique (MPR) in a CT scan three months postoperatively. Manual and instrumental laxity (Lachman test, Pivot-shift test, Rolimeter) and functional outcome scores (International Knee Documentation Committee sore, Tegner activity level) were measured after one year follow up. RESULTS: In the PF group the mean bone tunnel diameter at the level of the joint entrance was not significantly enlarged. One and two centimeter distal to the bone tunnel diameter was reduced by 15% (p = .001). In the IF group the bone tunnel at the level of the joint entrance was enlarged by 14% (p = .001). One and two centimeter distal to the joint line the IF group showed a widening of the bone tunnel by 21% (p < .001) One and two centimeter below the joint line the bone tunnel was smaller in the PF group when compared to the IF group (p < .001). No significant difference for laxity test and functional outcome scores could be shown. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that press-fit fixation with free autologous bone plugs in the tibial tunnel results in significantly smaller diameter of the tibial tunnel compared to interference screw fixation.

Current state of treatment of acute acromioclavicular joint injuries in Germany: is there a difference between specialists and non-specialists? A survey of German trauma and orthopaedic departments.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate currently preferred treatment strategies as well as the acceptance of new arthroscopic techniques among German orthopaedic surgeons. We assumed that surgeons specialized in shoulder surgery and arthroscopy would treat acute acromioclavicular joint dislocations different to non-specialized surgeons. METHODS: Seven hundred and ninety-six orthopaedic and/or trauma departments were found through the German hospital directory of 2012. Corresponding websites were searched for the email address of the chair of shoulder surgery (if applicable) or the department. Seven hundred forty-six emails with the request for study participation including a link to an online survey of 36 questions were sent. In 60 emails, the recipient was unknown. RESULTS: Two hundred and three (30 %) surgeons participated in the survey. one hundred and one were members of the AGA (German-speaking Society for Arthroscopy and Joint-Surgery) and/or of the DVSE (German Association of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery) and regarded as specialists, while 102 were non-members and regarded as non-specialists. According to the treatment of Rockwood I/II and IV-VI injuries, no significant differences were found. Seventy-four % of non-specialists and 67 % of specialists preferred surgical treatment for Rockwood III injuries (P = 0.046). Non-specialists would use the hook plate in 56 % followed by the TightRope in 16 %; specialists would use the TightRope in 38 % followed by the hook plate in 32 % (P = 0.004). CONCLUSIONS: The majority of German orthopaedic and trauma surgeons advise surgical treatment for Rockwood III injuries. Specialists recommend surgery less often. Non-specialists prefer the hook plate, whereas specialists prefer the arthroscopic TightRope technique. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Observational survey, Level IV.

Variability of landmark acquisition affects tunnel calculation in image-free ACL navigation.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine the inter- and intraobserver variability of intraarticular landmark identification for tunnel position calculation in image-free anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) navigation. METHODS: In a test/retest scenario, thirteen experienced ACL surgeons (>50 reconstructions year) experienced in image-free ACL navigation were asked to identify the landmarks required for image-free ACL navigation in the same cadaver knee. Landmark positions were registered using a fluoroscopic ACL navigation system. Positions were determined using validated radiological measurement methods. For variability analysis, mean positions, deviations between the test/retest positions, standard deviations (SD) and range were calculated. RESULTS: Interobserver analysis showed a mean variability (SD) for the tibial landmark positions of 3.0 mm with deviations of up to 24.3 mm (range). Mean femoral landmark variability was 2.9 mm (SD) with deviations of up to 11.3 mm (range). Intraobserver analysis showed a tibial reproducibility of 2.2 mm (SD 2.0 mm; range 10.9 mm) and a femoral of 1.9 mm (SD 1.9 mm; range 10.4 mm). CONCLUSION: The data of the presented study suggest that a considerable inter- and intraobserver variability in intraarticular landmark identification exists. Reasonable ranges were found that have to be considered as a potential risk for miscalculation of tunnel positions in image-free ACL reconstruction. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Landmark acquisition affects tunnel calculation in image-free ACL. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Rolimeter measurements are suitable as substitutes to stress radiographs in the evaluation of posterior knee laxity.

PURPOSE: The quantification of posterior knee laxity is crucial in the evaluation of injuries to the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) as it has important implications to the treatment for these injuries. The objective of this study was to compare the test results of stress radiography and instrumented drawer testing (Rolimeter) for the assessment of posterior knee laxity in patients with PCL injury. METHODS: In 45 patients with an injury to the PCL, lateral radiographs of both knees were obtained under anterior and posterior tibial load (150 N) using a standardized approach. Patients with injury of the ACL to either knee were excluded from the study. During the same clinic visit, an instrumented measurement of anterior-posterior knee laxity was performed at 90° of knee flexion by an experienced examiner using the Rolimeter device. The mean side-to-side differences (SSD) of both (radiographic and instrumented) measurements were compared to each other, and the correlation was calculated using the Pearson coefficient. RESULTS: The SSD (affected/healthy side) of posterior translation determined from the radiographs was 8.2 ± 3.2 mm, and the SSD of the instrumented measurement testing was 7.6 ± 3.2 mm. The mean difference between radiographic and Rolimeter test results was 1.8 ± 1.5 mm. The Pearson's correlation coefficient revealed a good correlation between both measurements of 0.74. CONCLUSIONS: It may be suggested by the results of this study that under the absence of an ACL injury and a fixed posterior drawer sign, the Rolimeter is a suitable tool to assess the posterior laxity of the knee in the clinical setting. Its advantages are the absence of radiation to the patient, its availability, and the low cost. Therefore, the Rolimeter device may serve as a valuable alternative to stress radiography in the evaluation of PCL-injured patients. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II.

In vivo blood flow after rotator cuff reconstruction in a sheep model: comparison of single versus double row.

PURPOSE: Arthroscopic double-row (DR) suture anchor repair of rotator cuff tears has been shown to be superior to most single-row (SR) techniques with regard to footprint reconstruction, load to failure and tendon-to-bone contact pressures. The hypothesis of this study was that the greater contact pressures of DR techniques would compromise blood flow to a higher degree than SR repair. The aim of this experimental study was to evaluate the effect of a DR and a SR technique on tendon blood flow in a sheep model. METHODS: Eighteen sheep underwent detachment and immediate repair of the infraspinatus tendon using either a Mason-Allen or a suture-bridge technique. Tendon blood flow was measured using laser Doppler flowmetry before detachment, immediately after repair and 12 weeks thereafter. Six regions of interest were measured, three over the lateral and three over the medial aspect of the footprint. RESULTS: Immediately after repair, tendon blood flow decreased significantly in both repair groups (P = 0.004). In the SR group, blood flow decreased by 100.1 arbitrary units (AU) (83.6 %) after repair, in the DR by 81.4 AU (90.5 %). Subgroup analysis showed blood flow over the lateral aspect of the footprint decreased by 126.3 AU (92.2 %) in the SR and 84.4 AU (90.9 %) in the DR group, whereas over the medial aspect, it decreased by 73.9 AU (72.0 %) in the SR and 78.5 AU (90.1 %) in the DR group. None of the differences between the groups were significant. At 12 weeks, measured blood flow in the DR group had increased to 90.1 AU (100.2 %) compared to the native tendons and was at 72.5 AU (60.5 %) for the SR group. Again, the difference between SR and DR group was not statistically significant (n.s.). Assessment for retears showed that 4 of 8 tendons (50 %) in the DR group and 3 of 9 tendons (33.3 %) in the SR group had to be classified as re-ruptures. CONCLUSION: Suture anchor repair leads to an intraoperative decrease in tendon blood flow regardless of the repair technique. A significant difference between SR and DR repair was not found. These findings indicate that tendon blood flow should not be a factor to determine the use of either repair technique over the other.

Soft tissue injury of the shoulder after single non-dislocating trauma: prevalence and spectrum of intraoperative findings during shoulder arthroscopy and treatment results.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The purpose of our study was to present the spectrum and prevalence of intraarticular lesions in patients with shoulder pain after a single non-dislocating shoulder trauma and to evaluate the clinical results according to pathology and workers' compensation status. METHODS: Sixty consecutive patients (61 shoulders) with shoulder pain following a single non-dislocating shoulder trauma had shoulder arthroscopy. The indication for surgery was either persistent pain for 3 months or longer after trauma and/or an intraarticular lesion on MRI. Patients with history of shoulder complaints, previous shoulder surgery, a complete rotator cuff tear or a fracture of the shoulder girdle were excluded. Intraarticular findings during shoulder arthroscopy were retrospectively analyzed. After a minimum follow-up of 1 year patients were contacted by telephone interview and ASES score, Simple Shoulder Test, Subjective Shoulder Value and residual pain were assessed for the entire population and for patients with and without workers' compensation. RESULTS: The most common intraarticular findings were SLAP (44.3 %) and Pulley (19.7 %) lesions followed by lesions of the anterior or posterior labrum (14.8 %). The mean age of the 13 women and 47 men was 41.9 years (SD 10.9). Patients with workers' compensation had significantly lower scores than patients without and had a significantly lower return to work rate than patients without. INTERPRETATION: In patients with persistent shoulder pain after sprain or contusion arthroscopy revealed a broad spectrum of intraarticular findings. Patients with workers' compensation claims had worse results than those without. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Case series (Level IV).

The fabella syndrome - a rare cause of posterolateral knee pain: a review of the literature and two case reports.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this article was to evaluate the risks and benefits of non-operative treatment versus surgical excision of a fabella causing posterolateral knee pain. We performed a systematic review of literature and also present two case reports.Twelve publications were found in a PubMed literature review searching the word "fabella syndrome". Non-operative treatment and surgical excision of the fabella has been described. CASE PRESENTATION: Two patients presented to our outpatient clinic with persisting posterolateral knee pain. In both cases the presence of a fabella was identified, located in close proximity to the posterolateral femoral condyle. All other common causes of intra- and extra articular pathologies possibly causing the posterolateral knee pain were excluded.Following failure to respond to physiotherapy both patients underwent arthroscopy which excluded other possible causes for posterolateral knee pain. The decision was made to undertake surgical excision of the fabella in both cases without complication.Both patients were examined 6 month and one year after surgery with the Tegner activity score, the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and International Knee Documentation Committee Score (IKDC). CONCLUSION: Consistent posterolateral pain during exercise might indicate the presence of a fabella syndrome. Resecting the fabella can be indicated and is a minor surgical procedure with minimal risk. Despite good results in the literature posterolateral knee pain can persist and prevent return to a high level of sports. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV, case reports and analysis of literature.

Acromial morphology in patients with calcific tendinitis of the shoulder.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the morphology of the acromion in calcific tendinitis differs from controls without subacromial pathology and matches subacromial impingement. METHODS: Digital radiographs of 150 shoulders were evaluated with the open source DICOM-Viewer OsiriX. 50 patients had symptomatic calcific tendinitis of the shoulder, 50 had subacromial impingement without calcifications or rotator cuff tears, 50 with bruised shoulder that were previously asymptomatic served as controls. Acromial shape according to Bigliani et al. acromial tilt (AT) according to Kitay et al. and Aoki et al. acromion index (AI) according to Nyffeler et al. and lateral acromial angle (LAA) according to Banas et al. were measured. RESULTS: Both calcific (0.72; P = 0.001) and impingement groups (0.73; P = 0.008) were significantly different from controls (0.67) using AI measure, while only the calcific group (79.5°) was different from controls (84.1°) using LAA (P < 0.001), and only the impingement group (32.9°) was different from controls (29.2°) using AT (P < 0.001). An LAA <70° only occurred in two patients with calcific tendinitis. CONCLUSION: The hypothesis of this study was that the morphology of the acromion in calcific tendinitis differs from controls without subacromial pathology and matches subacromial impingement was only confirmed for the AI. The AI of shoulders with calcific tendinitis is comparable to that of shoulders with subacromial impingement.

Low inter- and intraobserver variability allows for reliable tunnel measurement in ACL reconstruction using the quadrant method.

INTRODUCTION: Correct anatomic tunnel positions are essential in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. To establish recommendations for tunnel positioning based on anatomical findings and to compare tunnel positions with clinical results, different radiological measurement methods as the quadrant method exist. Comparing the data of different observers requires the validation of the reliability of measurement methods. The purpose of this study therefore was to determine the reliability of the quadrant method to measure tunnel positions in ACL reconstruction. The hypothesis was, that the quadrant method shows a low inter- and intraobserver variability. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a test/retest scenario 20 knee surgeons were asked to determine defined tunnel positions in five lateral radiographs applying the quadrant method. Rotation, angle deviation, height and depth of the quadrant as well as absolute and relative tunnel positions of each observation were measured along referenced scales. Mean sizes and angle deviations of the quadrants, tunnel positions and deviations between the test/retest positions were calculated as well as standard deviations and range. RESULTS: Interobserver variability analyses, to plan as well as to determine tunnel positions in ACL reconstruction, showed a mean variability (SD) of <1 mm, with ranges of 2.5 mm for planning and 3.7 mm for determination of tunnel positions using the quadrant method. Intraobserver analysis showed mean variability with deviations of <1 mm and maximum standard deviations of 0.7 mm and ranges of up to 2.3 mm. CONCLUSIONS: We confirmed the hypothesis that the quadrant method has a low inter- and intraobserver variability. Based on the presented validation data, the quadrant method can be recommended as reliable method to radiographically describe insertion areas of the ACL as well as to determine tunnel positions in ACL reconstruction intra and postoperatively.

Variability of tunnel positioning in ACL reconstruction.

INTRODUCTION: Since tunnel positioning is one of the key factors in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction and the variability of tunnel positioning in ACL reconstruction has so far never been analyzed, the objective of this study was to determine the inter- and intra-observer variability of tibial and femoral tunnel positioning in ACL reconstruction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In an operating room setup, 13 surgeons were asked to identify the tunnel positions in one and the same ACL-deficient cadaver knee. Using a fluoroscopic based ACL navigation system, tunnel positions were digitally measured in a test/re-test scenario. For variability analysis mean positions, standard deviations and range were calculated as well as differences between test/re-test positions. RESULTS: The intraobserver analysis showed a tibial variability of 3.3 mm (SD 2.1, range 7.5 mm) and a femoral variability of 2.0 mm (SD 1.6 mm, range 6.8 mm). The interobserver variability of the tibial tunnel positions was 3.2 mm (SD) with a range of 18.3 mm and a femoral variability of 3.7 mm (SD) with a range of 13.2 mm. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that a reasonable inter- and intra-observer variability in ACL tunnel positioning exists even among experienced surgeons. Although deviations of 2-3 mm may seem to be acceptable at first sight, a range of up to 18.3 mm indicates that outliers exist, which can cause graft failure. More reliable reconstruction techniques should be developed to reduce the variability in tunnel positioning.

App-Based Analysis of Fluoroscopic Images According to Bernard-Hertel Method for the Determination of Femoral Tunnel Positioning in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

The accurate positioning of the femoral tunnel is crucial for the success of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Malpositioning of the tunnel is believed to be one of the most important reasons for graft failure. While use of anatomic landmarks and industry-supplied aiming devices aid the surgeon in placing the drill pin in the correct position, fluoroscopic imaging is an additional tool used intraoperatively to verify pin placement. While interpretation of fluoroscopic imaging is frequently based on eyeball measurement, a more accurate analysis of a lateral image uses the quadrant method by Bernard-Hertel. This method has been primarily used for scientific research due to its complexity and has not been integrated into clinical routine yet. We present a digital app-based approach to easily quantify the femoral pin position based on the quadrant method. This approach is mobile and easy to use. Quantification of pin position of femoral bone tunnel on a lateral fluoroscopic image may be used for quality control and teaching purposes or may provide the surgeon with additional information during ACL reconstruction.