Efficacy of Intrawound Vancomycin in Prevention of Periprosthetic Joint Infection After Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective Double-Blinded Randomized Control Trial.

BACKGROUND: Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a devastating complication. Intrawound vancomycin powder has been shown to reduce infection rates in spine surgery, but its role in arthroplasty remains controversial. This prospective randomized control trial aimed to evaluate the efficacy of intrawound vancomycin in preventing PJI after primary TKA. METHODS: A total of 1,022 patients were randomized to the study group (n = 507, who received 2 grams intrawound vancomycin powder before arthrotomy closure) or to the control group (n = 515, no local vancomycin) with a minimum follow-up of 12-months. The primary outcome was the incidence of PJI or surgical site infection (SSI). Secondary outcomes included associated minor complications such as stitch abscess, persistent wound drainage, and delayed stitch removal. Other parameters evaluated include reoperation rates and incidences of nephrotoxicity. RESULTS: The overall infection rate in 1,022 patients was 0.66%. There was no significant difference in PJI rate in the study group (N = 1; 0.2%) versus the control group (N = 3; 0.58%), P = .264. Reoperation rates in the study group (N = 4; 0.78%) and control (N = 5; 0.97%), and SSI rates in the study (N = 1; 0.2%) and control groups (N = 2; 0.38%) were comparable. The Vancomycin cohort, however, demonstrated a significantly higher number of minor wound complications (n = 67; 13.2%) compared to the control group (n = 39; 7.56%, P < .05). Subgroup analysis showed diabetics in the study group to also have a higher incidence of minor wound complications (24 [14.1%] versus 10 [6.2%]; P < 05]. Multivariate analyses found that vancomycin use (odds ratio = 1.64) and smoking (odds ratio = 1.85) were associated with an increased risk of developing minor wound complications. No cases of nephrotoxicity were reported. CONCLUSIONS: Intrawound vancomycin powder does not appear to reduce PJI/SSI rate in primary total knee arthroplasties, including high-risk groups. Although safe from a renal perspective, intrawound vancomycin was associated with an increase in postoperative aseptic wound complications. Intrawound vancomycin may not be effective in reducing the rate of PJI in primary TKA.

Patella non-resurfacing in primary total knee arthroplasty provides good functional results-a retrospective review of nine thousand three hundred forty six knees.

PURPOSE: Patellar resurfacing has long been a contentious subject in TKA with no consensus and the literature yielding disparate results. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term functional outcomes and complications of patients undergoing primary TKA without patellar resurfacing (non-resurfacing). METHODS: This study retrospectively analysed 9346 patients who underwent primary manual jig-based TKA without patellar resurfacing at a single high-volume arthroplasty centre between 2010 and 2018. Patients with a minimum three year follow-up irrespective of disease etiology and implant manufacturer were included in the study. Primary outcome was measured using Oxford knee score and patellofemoral Feller score. Secondary outcomes included determining the incidence of patellofemoral complications and re-operation rates following TKA. RESULTS: A total of 8695 knees were eligible for final evaluation having a mean follow-up of 6.6 years. Mean age of the patients was 62.6 (SD-7.5) years with female predominance of (N-6619, 70.8%). The majority of the patients had primary OA (N-8792, 94.1%) with varus deformity (N-8642, 92.46%). Depuy was the most used manufacturer (n = 2592, 26.4%) with the posterior stabilised (N-4127, 44.2%) design being the most predominant. The mean Feller score of the study population was 24.5 (SD = 3) with a majority of patients having good to excellent outcomes (86.95%, N-8424) and mean Oxford knee score was 36.9 (SD-6.9) with a majority of the patients having an OKS greater than 30 (87.1%, N-8133) with anterior knee pain (AKP) reported in only 4.8% patients (N-418). Most common complications included patellar clunk (N-56, 0.7%), traumatic patellar fractures (N-62, 0.8%), quadriceps tendon tear (N-54, 0.7%) and patellar dislocation (N-4, 0.05%) CONCLUSION: Patellar non-resurfacing has no detrimental impact on functional outcomes and incidence of AKP. We conclude that it is a safe, cost-effective and satisfactory approach in primary TKA with no significant complications.

Enhanced Mid-Resection Workflow Technique for Severe Varus Deformity Correction Using Robotic-Arm Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty.

INTRODUCTION: Robotic technology in total knee arthroplasty has been proven to improve accuracy of component positioning, achieve alignment targets, and balance the knee objectively. However, the utility of robotics in correction of severe varus deformities of the knee has not been investigated in detail. The aim of this paper was to establish the utility and describe the technique of robotic-arm assisted total knee arthroplasty (RA-TKA) in achieving pre-balance in severe varus deformities of the knee. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Among the existing Mako (Stryker, Kalamazoo, Michigan) RA-TKA workflows, pre-resection workflow is limited to knees which can be pre-balanced by component positioning according to functional alignment. Mid-resection workflow (distal femur/tibia first) is reserved for complex cases, whereby the extension gap is balanced first. In our experience, both workflows could not achieve pre-balance in severe varus deformities, necessitating the need to develop a novel technique. The ability of the robot to execute precise bone cuts allows for a provisional postero-medial femoral bone cut in flexion, giving access to remove large inaccessible posterior osteophytes and the tight posterior capsule, thus balancing the knee in extension. The flexion gap is subsequently matched to the extension gap by alterations in axial component positioning. CONCLUSION: This novel "enhanced mid-resection workflow" technique establishes the utility of the RA-TKA in balancing severe varus deformities of the knee. We also propose an algorithm which simplifies and helps surgeons choose between the three workflows to pre-balance knees irrespective of the severity of the varus deformity.

Avoiding Lateral Laxity in Robotic Arm-Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty-A Surgical Technique Describing a New Method of Gap Capture and Balancing Strategy.

INTRODUCTION: Optimal flexion-extension gap balancing is an important factor in outcomes after total knee arthroplasty. Knees with varus deformities are commonly associated with a greater degree of lateral laxity both in extension and flexion. Residual lateral laxity could be encountered by surgeons during component trialling after robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty (RATKA), necessitating additional medial soft tissue release for a thicker insert. This study describes a new technique of gap assessment during RATKA and we propose a functional alignment based balancing strategy to avoid residual lateral laxity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This surgical technique was prospectively employed in 105 patients undergoing primary MAKO® (Stryker, Kalamazoo, Michigan) RATKA for osteoarthritis of the knee with varus deformity, between January 2021 and July 2021. Patients included had an initial lateral extension laxity of more than 24mm. Surgical data points collected consisted of characterization of the laxity profile of the knee using the medial and lateral extension and flexion initial gap captures, final gap captures after dynamic balancing with a functional alignment strategy, and residual lateral extension gap laxity in millimeters at the end of implantation. RESULTS: The mean initial lateral extension gap was 25.76mm (standard deviation [SD]=1.47) and the mean lateral flexion gap was 24.4mm (SD=1.94). Balance was achieved in all the patients with a 9 or 11mm insert, with a mean residual lateral laxity of 0.51mm (SD=0.73, range 0-2mm). The majority of patients (n=66, 62.85%) had zero lateral laxity at the end of final implantation while 24 patients (22.8%) had 1mm of residual lateral laxity. CONCLUSION: Residual lateral joint laxity can be avoided consistently and predictably in RATKA cases with initial gap capture of up to 30mm in lateral extension and flexion with this new technique of gap capture and employing various steps of balancing strategy described.

A Radiological Comparison of Robotic-Assisted Versus Manual Techniques in Total Hip Arthroplasty.

Purpose: This study investigates the radiological outcomes of robotic-assisted total hip arthroplasty (RATHA) compared to manual total hip arthroplasty (mTHA), addressing the ongoing debate on the effectiveness of RATHA in achieving superior implant positioning accuracy. Methods: A prospective cohort of 212 patients (103 robotic, 109 manual) underwent THA and were evaluated for postoperative radiological outcomes, focusing on the inclination and anteversion angles of the acetabular cup. Outlier prevalence was assessed based on angles outside the defined Lewinnek safe zones. All post-operative measurements were made using the BoneNinja application. Results: High inter-observer and intra-observer reliabilities were observed, validating the measurement accuracy. The mean anteversion and inclination angles in the RATHA cohort were 40.5 ± 1.5 and 24.5 ± 3.1° respectively; and the mTHA cohort were 42.1 ± 4.9 and 24.9 ± 4.5°. There was a statistically significant difference in inclination angles between the two cohorts whereas the anteversion angles showed no difference. Majority of the conventional THRs (N = 72, 55.4%) were placed outside the safe zone for anteversion. The inclination angles revealed a highly significant difference between the cohorts (p < 0.0001), with all the robotic THRs (N = 121, 100%) being placed within the safe zone for inclination, whereas only 70% (N = 91) of the conventional THRs were within the safe zone. 97.5% of RA-THRs were within 3° of the proposed plan, demonstrating high accuracy. Conclusion: RATHA significantly outperforms MTHA in radiological accuracy, achieving precise acetabular cup positioning with minimal outliers. These results advocate for RATHA's adoption in THA to enhance outcome predictability and affirm its reliability and safety over manual methods.

Which is more effective? Porcine tendon or 3D- printed flexor tendon? A study of model realism and educational utility in a flexor tendon repair workshop.

Introduction: Animal models in orthopaedic surgical training have raised concerns about ethics and availability, prompting the search for non-animal alternatives. The 3D-printed silicone tendon model has emerged as a potential alternative due to its hygiene and reusability. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of the two models for flexor tendon repair training. Materials and methods: A survey involved 25 postgraduate trainees with no prior experience in flexor tendon repair. Porcine tendon models and 3D-printed models were used, with participants evaluating accuracy, understanding of pulley systems, joint flexion, tissue feel, and model realism. Repairs were evaluated by experienced surgeons, and participants completed a survey. Results: Both models demonstrated satisfactory accuracy and realistic joint flexion. The porcine model scored higher in anatomical accuracy, while the 3D-printed model excelled in understanding pulley systems. The porcine model provided realistic tissue feel, while the 3D-printed model facilitated anatomy teaching. No significant difference was found in educational utility. The 3D-model was perceived as hygienic and odourless, whereas the porcine model offered better tendon handling. The 3D-model improved visualization of suture placement. Both models were equally accepted and recommended for training. Conclusion: The 3D-printed silicone tendon model is a cost-effective and reproducible alternative to porcine models in flexor tendon repair training. Although the 3D-printed model has limitations in mimicking human tendons, it was equally effective in teaching suturing techniques and improving repair skills. Combining the porcine model and 3D-printed model provides a comprehensive approach to flexor tendon repair training, addressing the limitations of each model and enhancing the educational experience.

Impact of Hepatitis B on Complications and Functional Outcomes in Patients Undergoing TKR.

Background: In India, infected patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV) undergoing total knee replacement (TKA) are increasing. It is recognized that patients with HBV infection are more susceptible to complications after surgery. To evaluate the effect of HBV infection on complications and functional outcome after TKA was the aim of this study. Methods: This is the retrospective observation analysis of patients who underwent primary total knee replacement in our hospital from 2017 to 2019. A total of 92 patients were included in the study, of which 46 patients were asymptomatic HBV-positive, and these 46 patients were compared with a matched cohort of another 46 patients who were non-HBV. Results: A total of 92 patients were analyzed (asymptomatic HBV n = 46, non-HBV n = 46). The incidence rate of total complications in patients undergoing TKA with asymptomatic HBV was 19.57% compared to 4.3% in non-HBV (p < 0.001). Applied with regression models, patients with HBV had an 8.6% increased risk of surgical complication which included one peri-prosthetic joint infection, three wound dehiscence compared with the non-HBV group which had 2.17% surgical complications (one wound dehiscence). Medical complications were higher in asymptomatic HBV group with 10.87% (which includes one pulmonary embolism, two DVT, and two strokes). In comparison with the non-HBV group which had 2.17% medical complications (one DVT), asymptomatic HBV group had 5.35-fold (95% CI 1.09-26.33; p < 0.01) increase in overall complications. Post-TKA surgical complications are 4.29-fold (95% CI 0.46-39.91; p < 0.01) higher compared to non-HBV group. Conclusion: Our study showed asymptomatic hepatitis B patients are at an increased risk of complications (peri-prosthetic joint infections and wound dehiscence) compared to normal patients. In hepatitis B and non-hepatitis B patients, functional outcomes in terms of OKS are comparable.

Improved intra-operative decision making in RA-TKR with the help of pre-operative CT scan.

Background: Robotic-assisted total knee replacement (RA-TKR) is a significant advancement in orthopedic surgery, but intra-operative decision-making remains challenging. Pre-operative imaging techniques, particularly CT scans, have gained momentum, providing insights into the patient's anatomy, improving implant positioning and alignment. However, further research is needed to explore their influence on RA-TKR planning and execution. Materials and methods: The hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted in Orthopedics department of Sparsh Speciality Hospital, Bangalore & Sunshine Hospital, Hyderabad. A total of 1020 participants in the age group over 50 years during the study period were included based on convenient sampling. The axial CT images were taken preoperatively and RA-TKA was done for all the patients. Results: The study participant's average age was 64.01 ± 7.13. Out of 1020 patients 259 (24.4%) were males and 761 (74.6%) were females. The median femoral, tibia and Polyethylene predicted and the actual component were same with the side of surgery and BMI. The median femoral predicted actual component was significantly higher among the age category of more than 80 years when compared to other age groups. The median femoral, tibia and Polyethylene predicted was higher in males when compared to females. Conclusion: Pre-operative CT scans enhance RA-TKR procedures by providing precise anatomical insights, enhancing implant placement, and identifying potential issues, improving surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Operating room efficiency for a high-volume surgeon in simultaneous bilateral robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty: a prospective cohort study.

Robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty (RATKA) has been shown to achieve more accurate component positioning and target alignment than conventional jig-based instrumentation; however, concerns remain regarding its adoption since it is associated with steep learning curves, higher operational costs, and increased surgical time. This study aims to compare the operating times of three cohorts of patients undergoing simultaneous bilateral TKA, i.e., first 50 RATKA, last 50 RATKA (at the end of 1 year), and 50 conventional TKA. This prospective cohort study was conducted at a single high-volume tertiary care center by a single experienced surgeon on 150 patients (300 knees), who were allotted into three equal cohorts of 50, between February 2020 and December 2021. Simultaneous bilateral TKAs were done in all three groups and operative times recorded. We describe the technique for optimizing the surgical time of SB-RATKA for efficient operative room logistics. The operating times of the two robotic-assisted TKA cohorts were compared with the operating times of the conventional SB-TKA cohort. The mean age of the study population was 59(±6.2) years with the majority of females (82%). The mean coronal deformity was comparable between the cohorts. The mean operating time in the conventional CTKA, initial 50 RATKA, and final 50 RATKA cohorts were 115.56 (±10.7), 127.8 (±26), and 91.66 (±13.5) min, respectively, all of which showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001). The mean operating times of the final 50 RATKA at the end of 1 year improved by about 36 min with all the SB-RATKA cases being completed in under 120 min. The efficiency of SB-RATKA improved significantly with time and experience, resulting in shorter operational times within a year, revealing the potential of robotic-assisted surgery to surpass conventional approaches in TKA in terms of operating room efficiency.

Calcaneal Osteosarcoma: A Rare Instance in Adolescent Patient.

Introduction: Calcaneal osteosarcoma is extremely uncommon, accounting for <1% of all osteosarcomas. They typically exhibit swelling and chronic heel pain and are frequently clinically misdiagnosed as traumatic or inflammatory process. Case Report: We report a case of a 19-year-old girl with calcaneal osteosarcoma who initially complained of heel pain that was refractory to analgesic medications over a period of 4 months. Conclusion: The case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and management of osteosarcoma in patients with chronic heel pain and also highlights the importance of considering osteosarcoma as a differential diagnosis in adolescents who present with chronic heel pain, despite the rarity of the condition.

Percutaneous Capsule Release in Adhesive Capsulitis with Nanoscope under Local Anesthesia - Case Report.

Introduction: Adhesive capsulitis or frozen shoulder is a painful condition. With advent of newer and newer technology, minimally invasive surgeries are being tried in all kinds of surgeries. Nanoscope is one such invention that lead to the idea of percutaneous arthroscopy. The aim of this case report is to emphasize the role of nanoscope under local anesthesia in treatment of adhesive capsulitis. Case Report: A 45-year-old male presented with a history of restricted movements in the right shoulder for 1 year. On clinical examination, rotator cuff strength was under normal limits, his forward elevation was 100°, lateral elavation was 90°, external rotation - 45°, abduction external rotation 30°, and abduction internal rotation 40°. X-ray shoulder was normal. MRI shoulder was showing features of adhesive capsulitis. Conclusion: Percutaneous arthroscopic capsular release with nanoscope under local anesthesia is a safe and cost-effective procedure. With minimal infrastructure, it can be developed into an outpatient procedure. The advantages of this percutaneous technique over conventional arthroscopic release needs further studies.

Unveiling Scapular Pseudo-winging: A Case Report on Ventral Osteochondroma of the Scapula in a 21-year-old.

Introduction: Scapular pseudo-winging caused by ventral osteochondromas is a rare condition that has been reported in only a handful of cases. This case report describes a 21-year-old male patient with scapular pseudo-winging due to ventral osteochondromas of the scapula. This report adds to the limited literature on this topic and highlights the importance of considering ventral osteochondromas as a possible cause of scapular pseudo-winging. Case Report: A 21-year-old male presented with a swelling on his left upper back that had gradually increased in size over the past 10 years. Physical examination revealed a bony hard swelling arising from the medial border of the scapula, with associated scapular pseudo-winging. Diagnostic imaging confirmed the presence of two ventral osteochondromas located on the body of the scapula. Surgical excision was performed to address the patient's cosmetic concerns. Conclusion: This case report highlights the importance of considering ventral osteochondromas as a possible cause of scapular pseudo-winging. It contributes to the existing literature by documenting a rare presentation and providing insights into the clinical course, diagnostic imaging, and surgical management of this condition. By raising awareness among tumor surgeons and orthopedic surgeons, this report may aid in early recognition and appropriate management of scapular pseudo-winging cases caused by ventral osteochondromas. Furthermore, this report expands our understanding of the etiology and treatment options for scapular pseudo-winging, potentially benefiting patients across various clinical specialties. Categories: Oncology, orthopedics.

Mid-resection Workflow for Robotic-assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty in a Stiff Knee.

Introduction: With the growing prevalence of robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty (RATKA), the significance of effectively addressing complex deformities using this approach is gaining widespread recognition. This article underscores the importance of a novel mid-resection workflow specifically tailored for RATKA in cases with complex deformities. Case Report: A 58-year-old female patient diagnosed with severe osteoarthritis in both knees and a stiff left knee underwent RATKA utilizing a mid-resection workflow. The surgery resulted in favorable intraoperative stability and achieved a satisfactory range of motion. Follow-up at the 1-year post-operative mark demonstrated a range of movement of 110° and a positive functional outcome for the patient. Conclusion: Severe knee arthritis with flexion deformity represents a common condition encountered in surgical practice. The advent of RATKA has provided us with an opportunity to assess and establish the effectiveness of mid-resection workflow in managing such cases.

Intraoperative Periprosthetic Fractures during primary Total knee arthroplasty: Experience from an Asian high-volume arthroplasty centre.

BACKGROUND: Intraoperative periprosthetic fracture (IF) is an under-reported complication in primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This study aimed to audit the outcomes and complication rates in patients encountering IF during primary TKA and propose a new classification for its management. METHODS: A nested case-control study was performed at a tertiary referral hospital where 50 patients encountering IF during primary TKA operated by a single surgeon team between January 2016 to May 2021, were compared with 150 (3:1) age-, gender- and implant-matched patients not encountering IF. Demographic data, risk factors, outcomes and complications of both groups were compared at a minimum follow up of 1 year. RESULTS: The incidence of IF was 0.45%, with 44 fractures in the femur (88%), six (12%) in the tibia and none in the patella. Medial collateral ligament avulsion fracture (54.54%) in the femur and medial plateau fracture (66.66%) in the tibia were the most common fracture types. At final follow up, the fracture group had higher rates of 90-day re-admissions (8% vs. 2.66%, P = 0.095), deep infection (4% vs. 0.66%, P = 0.15) and revisions (6% vs. 1.33%, P = 0.06). The mean Knee Society Score was not significantly different between the two groups (152.22 ± 9.25 vs. 161.68 ± 11.22, P = 0.642) with union being achieved in all but one patient at a mean duration of 9.6 weeks. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with severe and fixed deformities have a higher risk for IF. The occurrence of fracture and the complexity of surgery equally contribute to the higher complication rates. Appropriately managed fractures have comparable functional outcomes.

Percutaneous Management of Aneurysmal bone Cyst of Axis Vertebrae in a 12-year-old Child: A Case Report.

Introduction: Aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) of cervical spine is rare in the pediatric age groups. It brings along a gamut of problems in management such as growth disturbances, instability, deformities, and neurological deficiencies. We report a case that was successfully managed by intralesional injection, making it safe and reproducible. Case Report: A 12-year-old girl presented with pain and swelling around the nape of neck that increased in size over 1 year. Imaging and biopsy were suggestive of ABC. She was managed with selective embolization and percutaneous injection of methylprednisolone and calcitonin. Injections were given twice over 2 months period. At 1½ year follow-up, the patient was asymptomatic and swelling had shrunk in size and lesions ossified. Conclusion: ABC'S are rare lesions that can create therapeutic dilemma in the pediatric population. Intralesional injection of calcitonin and methylprednisolone can prove to be a safer and efficacious treatment modality.

Functional alignment is associated with increased incidence of pre-balance, reduced soft-tissue release, and post-operative pain compared to mechanical alignment in patients undergoing simultaneous bilateral robotic-assisted TKA.

This study aimed to compare two alignment strategies in the same patient undergoing simultaneous bilateral robotic-assisted TKA (SB-RATKA): mechanical alignment (MA), the gold-standard, and functional alignment (FA), a balance-driven, personalized alignment strategy. The outcome measures included quantitative assessment of soft-tissue release, incidence of knee balance, and post-operative pain. This was a prospective, self-controlled, randomized-controlled trial involving 72 patients who underwent SB-RATKA using the MAKO® robotic system with comparable grades of deformity and pain in both knees. 65 patients were finally included with one alignment strategy done per knee, with the patients blinded to the strategy used. The study recorded the additional soft-tissue releases required, incidence of pre-balance, and daily post-operative VAS pain scores. The mean age of the study population was 57.95 years, with a female preponderance (N = 53, 81.6%). MA group had significantly more medial compartment tightness in both flexion (MA-15.6 ± 1.8; FA-17 ± 1.3) and extension (MA-14.9 ± 1.9; FA-17 ± 1.1) (p < 0.0001) compared to the FA group after dynamic balancing. 66% of knees in the FA group (N = 43) achieved pre-balance compared to 32.3% in the MA group (N = 21) (p < 0.0001). VAS scores showed a significant reduction in pain in the FA group up to 72 h post-surgery (p < 0.0001). The requirement for posteromedial release (PM), posterior capsular (PC) release, tibial reduction osteotomy (TRO), and superficial MCL pie crusting (sMCL) were significantly lower in FA (PM-22, PC-13, TRO-8, sMCL-2) compared to MA (PM-44, PC-29, TRO-18, sMCL-8). Functional alignment strategy consistently resulted in a higher incidence of knee balance with a significant reduction in soft-tissue releases and immediate post-operative pain when compared to MA in the same patient undergoing SB-RATKA. Therapeutic Level 1.

Patellar Dislocation Masking a Tibial Post Fracture: An Unusual Complication of Posterior Stabilized Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Posterior stabilized total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has established itself as a highly effective design for total knee arthroplasty, renowned for its longevity and success. However, a subset of cases, approximately 6-12%, faces early failure, necessitating revision procedures. This case report presents a unique and previously undocumented complication involving a tibial post fracture following hyperflexion of the knee, masked by chronic patellar dislocation. This case highlights the importance of considering polyethylene wear-related failure in cases of instability without an apparent history of trauma. The surgical intervention involved polyethylene insert exchange, patellar debulking, lateral retinacular release, and quadriceps tendon double-breasting.

A New Technique of Fixing Intra-articular Fractures of the Distal Humerus without Exposing the Ulnar Nerve by Posterior Approach.

Introduction: Distal humerus fractures constitute around 0.2 to 7% of all fractures, 30% of all humerus fractures, most common in young adults, are due to high energy trauma and in old age due to osteoporosis. A common step in all currently available approaches is to identify the ulnar nerve, expose, mobilise, and retract this from its surrounding bed or in situ release. Ulnar neuropathy is either observed immediately after surgery or delayed up to one year after surgery. We are describing a new posterior approach for intra-articular distal humerus fractures, where identification and retraction of the ulnar nerve are not required to fix the intra-articular fractures of the distal humerus, thereby avoiding injury to the ulnar nerve. Material and Methods: Seven patients with AO type B and C were treated using our new ulnar nerve-sparing approach between January 2017 and December 2019. Postoperatively, all the patients have been examined for ulnar neuropathy symptoms. Results: We have no ulnar nerve neuropathy either in the post-operative period or at 2 years follow-up (five cases were followed up for 2 years and two patients lost to follow-up after 6 months). At the end of 2 years, the mean range of motion achieved at elbow was 134°. The mean oxford elbow score was 45.2 (42-47). Heterotopic ossification and infection were not found in our cases. Conclusion: Our ulnar nerve-sparing approach for intra-articular fractures of distal third humerus by posterior approach helps in fixing articular fractures of distal humerus without exposing ulnar nerve during surgery without compromising on the exposure of fracture for fixation, thus reducing the chances of ulnar nerve injury and post-operative neuropathy.

Unusual Failure of Modular TKA Prosthesis and Screw Migration following Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Introduction: The use of modular implants for revision TKA are ever increasing in number due to their definitive advantage over their monoblock counterparts by providing the surgeon with the versatility needed to achieve equal gaps and manage bone defects. This superiority comes at the cost of certain unique complications attributable to its modular design such as loosening and fractures at the areas of component coupling that are prone to fatigue failure with suboptimal fixation. Case Report: We present a case of modular femoral component failure in a 59-year man of Asian decent after revision TKA secondary to disengagement and migration of the extension stem locking bolt of a Total Condylar-III prosthesis. Patient presented with pain, effusion, and instability 2.5 years after stage-2 revision TKA. Radiographs revealed migration of the femur-stem locking bolt into the joint cavity. The femoral component and stem were loose. The locking bolt was extracted, and he underwent re-revision surgery with revised femoral components. Conclusion: Stem-condylar junction of modern modular TKA implants are prone to early loosening and failure. This diagnosis should be anticipated on serial follow-up radiographs and in patients who complain of sudden onset of instability following revision surgery.