Biomechanical and clinical study of single posterior oblique cage POLIF in the treatment of degenerative diseases of the lumbar spine

Introduction

Aim of the study was to evaluate the biomechanical stability and the clinical efficacy of a lumbar interbody fusion obtained by single oblique cage implanted by a posterior approach.

Method

Through the realization of three finite element models (FEMs), the biomechanics of POLIF was compared to PLIF and TLIF. Ninety-four patients underwent interbody fusion by POLIF with instrumented posterolateral fusion. Clinical and radiographic outcomes were evaluated at regular intervals for at least 6 months.

Results

The FEMs showed no statistically significant differences in stability in compression and flexion–extension. Mean preoperative VAS score was 7.1, decreased to 2.1 at follow-up. Mean preoperative SF-12 value was 34.5 %, increased to 75.4 % at follow-up. All patients showed a good fusion rate and no hardware failure.

Discussion

POLIF associated to instrumented posterolateral fusion is a viable and safe surgical technique, which ensures a biomechanical stability similar to other surgical techniques.

     

A Comparison of Two Arthroscopic Techniques for Interpositional Polytetrafluoroethylene Patch Repair for Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears: Speed and Biomechanics

Background

Interpositional synthetic patch repairs are a novel method of treating massive irreparable rotator cuff tears. However, surgeons experience difficulty in the arthroscopic insertion of these patches.

Questions/Purposes

We compared two methods of arthroscopic interpositional synthetic patch repair: the newly devised slide-and-grip technique, using pre-loaded sliding knots and no arthroscopic knots, and the weave technique, using less arthroscopic knot tying than the earlier mattress technique. Study questions were as follows: (1) Would the slide-and-grip technique take less time than the weave technique? (2) Would the biomechanical strength of the two methods be comparable?

Methods

Fourteen paired ovine infraspinatus tendon ex vivo models of the degenerative human rotator cuff underwent timed repair with a synthetic polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) patch, using either the weave technique (n?=?7) or the slide-and-grip technique (n?=?7). Each was pulled to failure using a tensile testing machine, the Instron 8874.

Results

The time to complete the slide-and-grip repairs was shorter (12?±?0.9 min) than that of the weave repairs (23?±?1 min). Ultimate load to failure was comparable for the slide-and-grip and weave techniques (211?±?27 N vs. 295?±?35 N, respectively), and the slide-and-grip was less stiff (14?±?1 N/mm vs. 19?±?1 N/mm).

Conclusions

The slide-and-grip technique took less time than the weave technique for the interpositional patch repair of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears and when correctly performed had comparable biomechanical strength.

     

Die arthroskopische ulnokarpale Dekompression durch Teilresektion des Ulnakopfs

Objective

Arthroscopic decompression (wafer procedure) of the ulnocarpal compartment in patients with ulnar impaction syndrome.

Indications

The arthroscopic wafer procedure is recommended in ulnar-plus situations with up to 3 mm length-excess. To perform this procedure the ulnar head needs to be accessible for the burr through a pre-existing, impaction-related, centroradial lesion of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC). The additional presence of a distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) type C confirms the indication.

Contraindications

The wafer procedure is contraindicated if there is no consistent TFCC injury ensuring access to the ulnar head and furthermore in ulna-plus situations of more than 3 mm. Relative contraindications: in young patients due to lack of evidence-based studies.

Surgical technique

Arthroscopic, semicircular, partial resection of the ulnar head in terms of oblique–helicoidal osteotomy using a 4.2 mm burr, while sparing the DRUJ and the dorsal and the palmar radioulnar ligaments.

Postoperative management

Immobilization for 1 week in a palmar splint with immediate intensive exercising of pro- and supination under physiotherapeutic instruction.

Results

Between 2008 and 2010, an arthroscopic wafer procedure was performed in 24 patients. The resection of the ulnar head was 2.5 mm on average. After a mean follow-up time of 13.25 months, very good results were archived in 23 of 24 patients; the ulnar impingement test was negative. On a visual analog scale (0–10) average postoperative pain was 1.16 at rest and 4.5 under stress. The mean postoperative DASH score was 13.4.

     

Strength recovery after arthroscopic anterosuperior cuff repair: analysis of a consecutive series

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to look at the functional outcomes of arthroscopic repair of anterosuperior rotator cuff tears.

Methods

Sixty-one patients who underwent arthroscopic repair of anterosuperior cuff tears were retrospectively reviewed. At a minimum 6 months of follow-up, shoulder functional outcome scores including the Constant score (CS), simple shoulder test (SST) and visual analogic scale (VAS) were collected. Strength recovery for supraspinatus and subscapularis was investigated.

Results

All patients (mean age 59 ± 7) were available at a mean follow-up of 18 ± 7 months. The average CS improved from 30.8 ± 10.2 preoperatively to 76.5 ± 12.0 postoperatively, average SST from 2.6 ± 2.0 to 8.8 ± 2.9 and average VAS pain scale from 3.8 ± 1 to 0.5 ± 0.5 (p < 0.0001). Strength at belly-press and Jobe tests significantly improved (p < 0.0001). All patients with the exception of one were satisfied with the intervention.

Conclusions

Arthroscopic repair of anterosuperior rotator cuff tears provides a significant improvement in pain relief and shoulder function. Strength recovery is demonstrated in medium correlation with tendon healing.

Level of evidence

Level IV, therapeutic case series.

     

Osteosynthese einer bikondylären Tibiakopffraktur in Bauchlage

Objective

The aim of the surgical treatment of intra-articular bicondylar tibial plateau fractures is the anatomical reconstruction and direct biomechanical optimal fixation of the fractured articular surface and the leg axis, taking the frequently associated soft tissue damage into account.

Indications

This article presents a cadaver model of a simulated complex bicondylar tibial plateau fracture 41C3 according to the AO classification with fracture involvement of all 10 segments and indications for surgery due to a posteromedial shearing fracture and lateral articular destruction with posterolaterocentral impaction.

Contraindications

Pronounced soft tissue damage with acute or incompletely healed infections in the area of the surgical approach.

Surgical technique

In the presented video of the operation, which is available online, the direct treatment of an intra-articular complex tibial plateau fracture from dorsal in a prone position is shown in detail: posterolateral ca. 13?cm long skin incision immediately above the fibular head with subsequent gentle preparation of the peroneal nerve at the medial border of the biceps femoris muscle. Retraction of the lateral head of the gastrocnemius muscle medially. Proximal detachment of the soleus muscle from the fibular head and retraction of the popliteus muscle medially. Horizontal capsule incision for fracture visualization. Opening of the lateral window ventral to the lateral collateral ligament. If necessary, osteotomy of the lateral femoral epicondyle for improved posterolaterocentral fracture visualization. Angular stable osteosynthetic fixation. Posteromedial approach medial to the medial gastrocnemius head. Retraction of the medial head of the gastrocnemius muscle laterally, horizontal capsular incision with sparing of the semimembranosus muscle medially and posterior cruciate ligaments laterally, fracture reduction, fixation with posteromedial support plate, image converter control, wound closure.

Follow-up

Postoperative cooling and elevation of the operated limb. Depending on the fracture 6–10 weeks partial loading of maximum 20?kg. Prior to full load bearing clinical radiological follow-up checks to determine the bony consolidation and material positioning.

Results

This is an established and safe delivery strategy for complex fracture patterns with dorsally running fractures. The risk of intraoperative malreduction is low. Postoperative reduction losses depend on fracture, operation and especially patient-specific characteristics.

     

Adjacent intervertebral space infection after lumbar fusion

Background

Surgical site infection is a catastrophic complication after spinal surgery, which seriously affects the progress of rehabilitation and clinical outcome. Currently the clinical reports on spinal surgical site infections are mostly confined to the surgical segment itself and there are few reports on adjacent segment infections after spinal surgery.

Study design

Case report.

Objective

To report a clinical case with adjacent level infection after spinal fusion.

Methods

We report the case of a 68-year-old woman who underwent posterior lumbar 4?5 laminectomy, posterolateral fusion and internal fixation. The patient showed signs of surgical site infection, such as surgical site pain, high fever and increase of the inflammatory index 1 week after the operation. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed the diagnosis of adjacent intervertebral disc infection. The patient received early combined, high-dose anti-infection treatment instead of debridement.

Results

After the conservative treatment, the infection was controlled and the patient subsequently enjoyed a normal daily life.

Conclusion

Adjacent level infections can occur after spinal surgery. Early diagnosis and anti-infection treatment played an important role in the treatment of this kind of complication.

     

No difference in flexion power despite iliopsoas fatty degeneration in healed hip fractures with large lesser trochanter displacement

Objective

To evaluate iliopsoas atrophy and loss of function after displaced lesser trochanter fracture of the hip.

Design

Cohort study.

Setting

District hospital.

Patients

Twenty consecutive patients with pertrochanteric fracture and displacement of the lesser trochanter of?>?20 mm.

Intervention

Fracture fixation with either an intramedullary nail or a plate.

Outcome measurements

Clinical scores (Harris hip, WOMAC), hip flexion strength measurements, and magnetic resonance imaging findings.

Results

Compared with the contralateral non-operated side, the affected side showed no difference in hip flexion force in the supine upright neutral position and at 30° of flexion (205.4 N vs 221.7 N and 178.9 N vs. 192.1 N at 0° and 30° flexion, respectively). However, the affected side showed a significantly greater degree of fatty infiltration compared with the contralateral side (global fatty degeneration index 1.085 vs 0.784), predominantly within the psoas and iliacus muscles.

Conclusion

Severe displacement of the lesser trochanter (>?20 mm) in pertrochanteric fractures did not reduce hip flexion strength compared with the contralateral side. Displacement of the lesser trochanter in such cases can lead to fatty infiltration of the iliopsoas muscle unit. The amount of displacement of the lesser trochanter did not affect the degree of fatty infiltration.

Level of evidence

II.

     

Clinical results of an arthroscopic modified Brostrom operation with and without an internal brace

Background

The concept of utilizing nonabsorbable suture tape fixed directly to bone to augment Brostrom repairs of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) has been proposed. However, no clinical data are currently available regarding the arthroscopic modified Brostrom operation with an internal brace.

Materials and methods

This study involved 85 consecutive patients (22 in the with internal brace group; 63 in the without internal brace group) who could be followed up for >6 months after undergoing an arthroscopic modified Brostrom operation. The American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score was administered to assess the functional status. At preoperation and at 24 weeks after surgery, the anterior drawer test was examined clinically.

Results

Improvement of mean AOFAS score in the internal brace group from before surgery to two weeks after surgery was statistically significant (p < 0.05). At 24-week follow-up, the anterior drawer test showed grade 0 laxity in 19 patients (86.4 %) and grade 1 in three patients (13.6 %). Improvement of AOFAS score in the group without an internal brace from before surgery to 6 weeks after surgery was not statistically significant (p = 0.001). At 24-week follow-up, the anterior drawer test showed grade 0 laxity in 54 patients (85.7 %) and grade 1 in nine patients (14.3 %).

Conclusion

Patients in the internal brace group were able to quickly return to activity and sports. We believe this technique could be a viable option for surgically treating chronic lateral ankle instability in patients who need an early return to activity and sports.

Level of evidence

III.

     

Long Head of Biceps Tendon Management: a Survey of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons

Background:

Management of symptomatic long head of biceps tendon (LHBT) pathology remains a source of debate.

Questions/Purposes:

The purpose of this study was to identify consensus trends for the treatment of LHBT pathology among specialists.

Methods:

A survey was distributed to members of the American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES), consisting of three sections—demographics, case scenarios, and general LHBT pathology management. Cases presented common clinical scenarios, and surgeons reported their management preferences. Consensus responses were defined as > 50% of participants giving a single response.

Results:

One hundred and forty-two of 417 (34%) surgeons completed surveys. Forty-seven percent of questions reached a consensus answer. Biceps tenodesis was the overwhelmingly preferred technique in cases demonstrating LHBT pathology, as compared to tenotomy. No consensus, however, was reached regarding a specific surgical technique for biceps tenodesis. The two most popular techniques were arthroscopic tenodesis to bone and open subpectoral biceps tenodesis. Fellowship-trained arthroscopic surgeons and surgeons with a largely arthroscopic practice were more likely to perform tenodesis arthroscopically.

Conclusion:

ASES members favored biceps tenodesis over tenotomy for surgical management of LHBT pathology, without consensus regarding a specific surgical technique.

     

Arthroscopic osteochondroplasty in patients with mild slipped capital femoral epiphysis after in situ fixation

Purpose

Mild slipped capital femoral epiphyses (SCFE) nevertheless show significant femoral head–neck deformities which may put cartilage and acetabular labrum at risk. Whether this deformity can be restored to normal has not yet been described in the literature.

Methods

In a prospective follow-up study, 14 patients with mild SCFE underwent in situ fixation with a single 6.5-mm cancellous, partially threaded screw. In 14 patients arthroscopic osteochondroplasty was performed, and in 13 patients pre- and postoperative measurements of the α-angle were made using antero-superior radial magnetic resonance imaging.

Results

After arthroscopic osteochondroplasty, the mean α-angle decreased from 57° (range 50°–74°) to 37° (range 32°–47°; p < 0.001). Six patients showed beginning degenerative intra-articular changes (four antero-superior cartilage and three antero-superior labrum lesions) at the time of hip arthroscopy. No intra-operative complications occurred. In one patient, arthroscopic debridement was necessary due to arthrofibrosis and persistent pain.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic osteochondroplasty can successfully correct the antero-superior α-angle in patients with mild SCFE to normal values. Clinical randomized controlled studies with long-term follow-up are required to find evidence of improved functional and radiographic mid- and long-term outcome compared to in situ fixation alone.

     

Changes in the three-dimensional load-bearing axis after mobile-bearing total knee arthroplasty

Background

The purpose of this study was to assess changes in the three-dimensional (3D) load-bearing mechanical axis (LBMA) preoperatively and at 3 weeks and more than 1-year follow-up after total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and effects of the degree of constraint in the anteroposterior (AP) direction because of the retention of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) and the implant design on the changes in LBMA.

Methods

We evaluated 157 knees from 131 patients, including 79 knees that received meniscal-bearing-type (PCL-retaining) and 78 knees that received rotating-platform-type (PCL-substituting) prostheses. Quantitative 3D computed tomography was used to assess changes in the location of the pre- and postoperative LBMA at the tibial plateau level.

Results

Changes in the 3D axis were mainly found from medial to lateral and posterior to anterior in both implant designs with no significant differences. Change in the mediolateral (ML) direction was improved soon after TKA, but change in the AP direction improved more gradually over time. The different constraints in the AP direction because of the retention of the PCL and different implant designs did not affect the changes in the LBMA.

Conclusions

The LBMA in the AP direction more than 1 year postoperatively, as well as the LBMA in the ML direction at 3 weeks, appears to shift toward the location found in normal knees after TKA, regardless of the type of prosthetic constraint. These changes may be an important factor that influences the periarticular knee bone mineral density which load bearing may be related to.

Level of evidence

Level II, Prognostic study.

     

Subcutaneous dissection area contributes less to endoscopic thyroidectomy-related invasiveness

Objective

To clarify the contribution of the subcutaneous area during breast approach endoscopic thyroidectomy (BAET), with regard to invasiveness-related outcomes.

Methods

Seventy-two patients were randomly assigned to two groups: standard dissection and limited dissection. Postoperative pain and inflammatory response were compared between groups.

Results

The groups were well matched except for subcutaneous dissection area (137.11 ± 21.10 vs. 83.69 ± 12.10 cm², p < 0.0001). No significant difference was found with regard to VAS score and postoperative inflammatory response.

Conclusion

Our RCT indicated that the subcutaneous area plays a less important role with regard to BAET-related postoperative pain.

     

Arthroskopisch unterstützte ulnare Refixierung des TFCC mit Schraubanker

Objective

The goal of this operation technique is a stable refixation of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) to the fovea ulnaris. The stability of the distal radio-ulnar joint (DRUJ) should be re-established. The patients pain and the feeling of instability should be reduced.

Indications

Lesions of the foveal component of the TFCC resulting in DRUJ instability. Combined lesions of both components of the TFCC. Complete detachment of the TFCC from the ulna either without fracture of the styloid process of the ulna or with fracture (floating styloid).

Contraindications

Severe lacerations of the TFCC and clinically relevant arthrosis of the DRUJ. Severely osteoporotic bone.

Surgical technique

Following diagnostic arthroscopy and performance of stability control of the TFCC with a palpation hook, reduction of the DRUJ with supination position of the wrist. Bone anchor fixation through the direct foveal portal (DF). Under arthroscopic control through the 3/4 portal, the suture from the DF portal is placed through the TFCC. Pull out and tie the strands through the 6 U portal.

Postoperative management

Restriction of rotation of the forearm in a Munster cast or special cast brace for 6 weeks. Self-controlled exercise of the wrist after 6 weeks. Physiotherapy and strength building 8 weeks postoperatively.

Results

Clinical studies of this technique showed a significant amelioration of pain perception, improved range of motion and DASH score in all patients after anchor fixation. The results are comparable to other techniques. All patients returned to work after the operation. Accordingly, using this technique a very good stabilization of the DRUJ with low complications can be achieved.

     

Short-term outcomes of arthroscopic TightRope<Superscript>®</Superscript> fixation are better than hook plate fixation in acute unstable acromioclavicular joint dislocations

Aim

The aim of this study was to compare the short-term outcomes of arthroscopic TightRope^® fixation with that of hook plate fixation in patients with acute unstable acromioclavicular joint dislocations.

Patients and methods

We conducted a prospective case–control study of twenty-six patients with an acute ACJ dislocation who underwent surgical repair with either an arthroscopic TightRope^® fixation or a hook plate from 2013 to 2016. Clinical and radiological data were collected prospectively. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Constant Score, the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Shoulder Score, Oxford Shoulder Score as well as the visual analogue scale. Radiological outcomes were assessed with the coracoclavicular distance (CCD).

Results

Sixteen patients underwent arthroscopic TightRope^® fixation, while 10 patients underwent hook plate fixation. There were no significant differences in the preoperative variables except for the mean UCLA 4b infraspinatus score (TightRope^® 2.8 vs. hook plate 3.8; p = 0.030). Duration of surgery was significantly longer in the TightRope^® group. At 1 year post-operatively, the TightRope^® group had a significantly better Constant Score and CCD with no complications. All patients with hook plate fixation had to undergo a second procedure for removal of implant, and 3 patients had complications.

Conclusions

Arthroscopic TightRope^® fixation is a good option for the treatment of acute unstable ACJ dislocations. It has better short-term clinical and radiological outcomes as well as lesser complications when compared to hook plate fixation.

Level of evidence

Therapeutic, Level III.

     

Arthroscopic internal drainage and cystectomy of popliteal cyst in knee osteoarthritis

Background

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of arthroscopic knee cavity internal drainage and cyst cavity debridement operation of popliteal cyst in knee osteoarthritis patients.

Methods

From August 2007 to March 2013, 58 knee osteoarthritis patients with popliteal cyst were treated with arthroscopic knee cavity internal drainage through posteromedial portal and popliteal cyst cavity debridement through superior posteromedial portal. In all patients, preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed to detect combined intra-articular pathology and the communication between popliteal cyst and knee cavity. Clinical efficacy was evaluated through VAS score and Lysholm score.

Results

All patients had neither recurrence of popliteal cyst nor complaints of pain, swelling, or functional impairment at average 24 months follow-up after surgery. Postoperatively, VAS score was decreased significantly and Lysholm score was raised significantly comparing preoperatively.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic knee cavity internal drainage operation through posteromedial portal and popliteal cyst cavity debridement through superior posteromedial portal is an effective minimally invasive surgery method for the treatment of popliteal cyst without recurrence in knee osteoarthritis patients.

     

A simplified surgical technique for recurrent inguinal hernia repair following total extraperitoneal patch plastic

Purpose

To present a new and alternative method for surgical treatment of recurrent inguinal hernia after total extraperitoneal patch plastic (TEP).

Methods

From January 2005 to September 2015, 35 patients (34 male, 1 female; mean age 65 ± 12.6 years) with recurrent inguinal hernia following TEP were operated at the Kliniken Essen-Mitte using a simplified method consisting of re-fixation of the primary mesh to the inguinal ligament by an anterior approach.

Results

The mean operating time was 47 ± 22 min. All complications were minor with an overall incidence of 6%. After a mean follow-up of 54 months one re-recurrence was observed.

Conclusions

This Simplified Hernia Repair is safe and avoids additional foreign body implantation. Therefore, it is our method of choice for recurrent inguinal hernias after TEP.

     

Die palmare winkelstabile Plattenosteosynthese bei Extensionsfrakturen des distalen Radius

Objective

Bony healing of dislocated distal radius fractures after open reduction and internal stabilization by locking screws/pins using palmar approach.

Indications

Extraarticular distal radius fractures type A2/A3, simple extra- and intraarticular fractures type C1 according to the AO classification, provided a palmar approach is possible.

Contraindications

Forearm soft tissue lesions/infections. As a single procedure if a volar approach not possible.

Surgical technique

Palmar approach to the distal radius and fracture. Open reduction. Palmar fixation of the plate to radial shaft with single screw. After fluoroscopy, distal fragments fixed using locking screws.

Postoperative management

Below-the-elbow cast for 2 weeks. Early exercise of thumb and fingers, wrist mobilization after cast removal. Complete healing after 6–8 weeks.

Results

Ten patients averaged 100?% range of motion of the unaffected side after 43±21 months. No complications observed. DASH score averaged 12±16 points; Krimmer wrist score was excellent in 7, good in 2, and fair in one.