Unicompartmental osteoarthritis: an integrated biomechanical and biological approach as alternative to metal resurfacing

Purpose

Although traditionally not indicated for the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA), regenerative procedures are becoming a focus of increased interest due to their potential to provide pain relief and alter the progression of degenerative diseases. The purpose of this study was to assess whether a combined biomechanical and biological approach could offer good results in unicompartmental OA, thus delaying the need for unicompartmental arthroplasty in patients too young or refusing metal resurfacing.

Methods

Forty-three patients (mean age = 40.1 ± 11 years, 33 men and 10 women, mean BMI = 25 ± 3) affected by unicompartmental OA (Kellegren-Lawrence score = 3) in stable joints were enrolled and treated consecutively. Fifteen patients were treated with osteotomy and osteochondral biomimetic scaffold implant (3 of them also with meniscal substitution), 11 with osteotomy and meniscal scaffold implant, 9 with osteotomy and meniscal allograft implant, and 8 with both cartilage and meniscal reconstruction, depending on the specific joint compartment main requirements. Clinical evaluation was performed at 3-year (2–4) median follow-up using the following scoring systems: IKDC subjective and objective, VAS for pain, and Tegner scores. Failures, adverse events, and complications were also reported.

Results

The IKDC subjective score improved from 47.3 to 79.6 at the final evaluation (p < 0.0005), VAS improved from 6.1 to 2.3 (p < 0.0005), and also sport activity level evaluated with the Tegner score showed a significant improvement, from 2 (1–5) to 4 (3–10; p < 0.0005), even if without achieving the pre-injury level (6, p = 0.001). A further subanalysis confirmed the positive outcome obtained in all the treatment subgroups and showed a higher clinical improvement in patients under the age of 40 years (IKDC subjective 84.4 ± 13.2 vs 76.5 ± 17.3; p = 0.03).

Conclusion

This integrated biological and biomechanical approach produced a marked improvement at short–medium follow-up in patients affected by unicompartmental OA. Even though a good outcome was achieved at all ages, patients under the age of 40 years presented a greater clinical and subjective improvement. Longer follow-up studies are needed to show results over time and confirm this approach as an effective alternative to unicompartmental implants.

Level of evidence

Case series, Level IV.     

Biodegradable polyurethane meniscal scaffold for isolated partial lesions or as combined procedure for knees with multiple comorbidities: clinical results at 2 years

Purpose

The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety and clinical efficacy of this novel polyurethane meniscal scaffold to treat partial meniscal loss.

Methods

Eighteen patients (11 men and 7 women, mean age: 45 years) affected by irreparable acute meniscal tears requiring partial meniscectomy or chronic prior loss of meniscal tissue were enrolled in the study. They underwent arthroscopic polyurethane meniscal scaffold implantation (13 medial and 5 lateral) and, in case of presence of other comorbidities, concurrent procedures were also performed. Patients were prospectively evaluated up to 2 years of follow-up through IKDC objective, IKDC subjective, and Tegner scores. Furthermore, MRI evaluation of the meniscal scaffold was performed.

Results

No major adverse events were observed. A statistically significant increase in all the clinical parameters considered was found. The IKDC objective score increased from 61 % of normal or nearly normal knees at basal evaluation to 94 % at 2 years of follow-up (p = 0.01). There was also a significant increase in the IKDC subjective score both at 6–12 months of follow-up (p = 0.03 and p < 0.005), which was confirmed at 24 months. The Tegner score also showed a significant increase from the pre-operative level (median value 2, range 1–5) to final evaluation (median value 3, range 2–5; p = 0.005), albeit not reaching the pre-injury sports activity level.

Conclusions

The implantation of this novel polyurethane scaffold proved to be a safe and potentially effective procedure to treat partial meniscal loss with encouraging results at short-term follow-up. Further high-quality studies with larger numbers of patients and longer evaluation times are needed to confirm these preliminary data.

Level of evidence

Case series, Level IV.     

Implantation of matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte (MACI®) grafts using carbon dioxide insufflation arthroscopy

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine the safety of a new arthroscopic Matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implant (MACI) technique with carbon dioxide insufflation utilized to improve visualization during the dry phase of the scaffold implant.

Methods

Between 2004 and 2007, thirty patients were treated for symptomatic focal chondral lesions of the medial femoral condyle. All patients were monitored during surgery for gas embolism signs and symptoms and were evaluated preoperatively and at a median follow-up of 70.5 months (range 48–93 months) using the KOOS subjective evaluation score, the Lysholm function score, the Tegner activity scale for the knee, and the IKDC objective score.

Results

No cases of intraoperative or postoperative symptoms or signs related to gas embolism or persistent subcutaneous emphysema were registered. Each subscale of the KOOS subjective score improved from preoperative to follow-up. The median Lysholm score was 50 (range 15–66) at baseline and 87.5 (range 54–100) at follow-up (p < 0.05). The median Tegner score was 2 (range 1–4) at baseline to 5 (range 2–7) at follow-up (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

No complications registered, and the satisfactory clinical results achieved in this series suggest that carbon dioxide insufflation during arthroscopic MACI is a safe and accessible option to improve visualization during the dry phase of the scaffold implant on medial femoral condyles.

Level of evidence

IV.     

Arthroscopic autologous chondrocyte implantation in the ankle joint

Purpose

Autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) is an established procedure in the ankle providing satisfactory results. The development of a completely arthroscopic ACI procedure in the ankle joint made the technique easier and reduced the morbidity. The purpose of this investigation was to report the clinical results of a series of patients who underwent arthroscopic ACI of the talus at a mean of 7 ± 1.2-year follow-up.

Methods

Forty-six patients (mean age 31.4 ± 7.6) affected by osteochondral lesions of the talar dome (OLT) received arthroscopic ACI between 2001 and 2006. Patients were clinically evaluated using AOFAS score pre-operatively and at 12, 36 months and at final follow-up of 87.2 ± 14.5 months.

Results

The mean pre-operative AOFAS score was 57.2 ± 14.3. At the 12-month follow-up, the mean AOFAS score was 86.8 ± 13.4 (p = 0.0005); at 36 months after surgery, the mean score was 89.5 ± 13.4 (p = 0.0005); whereas at final follow-up of 87.2 ± 14.5 months it was 92.0 ± 11.2 (p = 0.0005). There were three failures. Histological and immunohistochemical evaluations of specimens harvested from failed implants generally showed several aspects of a fibro-cartilaginous tissue associated with some aspects of cartilage tissue remodelling as indicated by the presence of type II collagen expression.

Conclusion

This study confirmed the ability of arthroscopic ACI to repair osteochondral lesions in the ankle joint with satisfactory clinical results after mid-term follow-up.

Level of evidence

IV, retrospective case series.     

Second-generation arthroscopic autologous chondrocyte implantation for the treatment of degenerative cartilage lesions

Purpose

Degenerative cartilage lesions present a negative joint environment, which may have a negative effect on the process of cartilage regeneration. The aim of this study is to analyze the clinical outcome obtained with the treatment for isolated degenerative knee cartilage lesions by second-generation arthroscopic autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI).

Methods

Fifty-eight consecutive patients affected by focal degenerative chondral lesions of the femoral condyles and trochlea were treated by second-generation arthroscopic ACI. The mean age at surgery was 34.7?±?9.1?years and the average defect size was 2.3?±?0.9?cm². The patients were prospectively evaluated with IKDC, EQ-VAS, and Tegner scores preoperatively, at 2 and 6?years.

Results

A statistically significant improvement was observed in all scores from the basal evaluation to the final follow-up. The IKDC subjective score improved from 39.3?±?13.6 to 68.8?±?22.7 and 68.5?±?23.9 at the 2- and 6-year follow-ups, respectively, with a significant improvement (P?Conclusions Despite a significant improvement, the results were lower with respect to the outcome reported in different study populations, and the number of failures was markedly higher, too. Tissue-engineered cartilage implantation is a promising approach for the treatment of degenerative chondral lesions, but graft properties, besides mechanical and biochemical joint environment, have to be improved.

Level of evidence

Case series, Level IV.     

Polyurethane-based cell-free scaffold for the treatment of painful partial meniscus loss

Purpose

The aim of this study was to document, at mid-term follow-up, the clinical and MRI outcome of a polyurethane-based cell-free scaffold implanted to treat painful partial meniscus loss.

Methods

Eighteen consecutive patients were enrolled and treated with arthroscopic polyurethane meniscal scaffold implantation and, in case of other comorbidities, with concurrent surgical procedures: 16 patients (9 men and 7 women, mean age 45 ± 13 years, mean BMI 25 ± 3, 12 medial and 4 lateral implants) were prospectively evaluated with the subjective and objective IKDC and the Tegner scores at 24, 36, 48, 60, and 72 months of follow-up. Eleven patients were also evaluated by 1.5-T MRI at the final follow-up.

Results

The IKDC subjective score showed a significant improvement from baseline to 24 months (45.6 ± 17.5 and 75.3 ± 14.8, respectively; p = 0.02) and subsequent stable results over time for up to 72 months (final score 75.0 ± 16.8). The Tegner score improvement between pre-operative status and final follow-up was also significant (p = 0.039). Nevertheless, the final score remained significantly lower than the pre-injury sports activity level (p = 0.027). High-resolution MRIs documented the presence of abnormal findings in terms of morphology, signal intensity, and interface between the implant and the native meniscus. Implant extrusion and bone oedema at the treated compartment were also observed in most of the cases, even though no correlation was found between imaging findings and clinical outcome.

Conclusions

The present study reports satisfactory clinical outcomes at mid-term follow-up after polyurethane-based meniscal cell-free scaffold implantation. The treatment was effective both in cases of isolated partial meniscal lesions and in complex cases requiring the combination with other surgical procedures. On the other hand, a high rate of altered MRI aspects was documented. However, no correlation was found between the altered imaging parameters and the overall positive clinical findings, thus supporting the use of this procedure to treat painful partial meniscus loss.

Level of evidence

Case series, Level IV.

     

The influence of femoral tunnel position in single-bundle ACL reconstruction on functional outcomes and return to sports

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to radiographically investigate the influence of femoral tunnel placement in ACL reconstruction on early outcomes and return to sports due to anatomic and nonanatomic positioning.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted from 2008 to 2010, with 86 athletes who underwent ACL reconstruction between anteromedial (AM) footprint and high AM position. Knee functional outcomes (IKDC objective and subjective, Tegner score, and Lysholm scale) return to sports and complications were analyzed at 6- and 12-month follow-up.

Results

At follow-up, it was observed that tunnel projection along Blumensaat’s line was correlated with functional outcomes on Tegner scale (at 6 and 12 months) and IKDC subjective (at 12 months). There was a significant difference in mean tunnel projection along Blumensaat’s line when analyzing return to sports (73 ± 1.4 and 79 ± 1.7 %, respectively, for projections on return vs. no return to sports, p = 0.02) and complications (73 ± 1.3 vs. 78 ± 1.6 %, respectively, for projections on no complications vs. complications, p = 0.03). No differences were stated on coronal view. These correlations between tunnel positioning on functional outcomes could not be explained by demographic or baseline characteristics.

Conclusion

The clinical relevance of this study is that tunnel positioning along AM footprint and high AM position represented by tunnel projection along Blumensaat’s line is associated with early return to sports on previous Tegner level and better functional outcome in athletes.

Level of evidence

III.     

Double-bundle reconstruction results in superior clinical outcome than single-bundle reconstruction

Purpose

To compare the short- and long-term clinical outcomes of the double-bundle (DB) anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with those of single-bundle (SB) ACL reconstruction.

Methods

An electronic search of the database PubMed (1966–September 2011), EMBASE (1984–September 2011), and Cochrane Controlled Trials Register (CENTRAL; 3rd Quarter, 2011) was undertaken to identify relevant studies. Main clinical outcomes were knee stability measurements including KT-1000 arthrometer measurement, Pivot shift test, and Lachman test, and clinical outcome measurements including International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Lysholm knee score, Tegner activity score, and complications.

Results

Eighteen studies were finally included in this meta-analysis, which were all classified as high risk of bias according to the Collaboration’s recommended tool. It is seen that compared to SB ACL reconstruction, DB ACL reconstruction results in a KT-1000 arthrometer outcome 0.63 and 1.00 mm closer to the normal knee in a short- and long-term follow-up, respectively. Our results also reveal that DB-treated patients have a significantly higher negative rate of the pivot shift test (p < 0.00001 and = 0.006 in a short- and long-term follow-up, respectively) and Lachman test (n.s. and p < 0.0001 in a short- and long-term follow-up, respectively) compared to SB-treated patients. As for the clinical outcome measurements, a significant difference is found between SB versus DB ACL reconstruction regarding the IKDC (p = 0.006 and < 0.0001 in a short- and long-term follow-up, respectively) and complications (p = 0.03), while there is no significant difference between the two groups regarding Lysholm knee score (n.s.) and Tegner activity score (n.s.).

Conclusion

Overall, double-bundle ACL reconstruction yields better clinical outcomes when compared to single-bundle ACL reconstruction.

Levels of evidence

II.     

Treatment of isolated chondral and osteochondral defects in the knee by autologous matrix-induced chondrogenesis (AMIC)

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate clinical and radiological outcomes of patients treated with autologous matrix-induced chondrogenesis (AMIC) for full-thickness chondral and osteochondral defects of the femoral condyles and patella.

Method

A retrospective evaluation of clinical and radiographic outcomes of patients treated with AMIC for chondral and osteochondral full-thickness cartilage defects of the knee was performed with a mean follow-up of 28.8 ± 1.5 months (range, 13–51 months).

Results

Significant improvements in clinical outcome scores (IKDC, Lysholm, Tegner, and VAS pain score) were noted. The largest improvements were seen in the osteochondral subgroup (mean age 25.9 years), whereas patients treated for chondral defects in the patellofemoral joint and on the femoral condyles improved less. Patients in all groups were generally satisfied with their results. MRI evaluation showed that tissue filling was present but generally not complete or homogenous.

Conclusions

AMIC is a safe procedure and leads to clinical improvement of symptomatic full-thickness chondral and osteochondral defects and to regenerative defect filling. The value of AMIC relative to other cartilage repair procedures and to the natural course remains undefined.

Level of evidence

Case series, Level IV.     

A multilayer biomaterial for osteochondral regeneration shows superiority vs microfractures for the treatment of osteochondral lesions in a multicentre randomized trial at 2 years

Purpose

The increasing awareness on the role of subchondral bone in the etiopathology of articular surface lesions led to the development of osteochondral scaffolds. While safety and promising results have been suggested, there are no trials proving the real potential of the osteochondral regenerative approach. Aim was to assess the benefit provided by a nanostructured collagen–hydroxyapatite (coll-HA) multilayer scaffold for the treatment of chondral and osteochondral knee lesions.

Methods

In this multicentre randomized controlled clinical trial, 100 patients affected by symptomatic chondral and osteochondral lesions were treated and evaluated for up to 2 years (51 study group and 49 control group). A biomimetic coll-HA scaffold was studied, and bone marrow stimulation (BMS) was used as reference intervention. Primary efficacy measurement was IKDC subjective score at 2 years. Secondary efficacy measurements were: KOOS, IKDC Knee Examination Form, Tegner and VAS Pain scores evaluated at 6, 12 and 24 months. Tissue regeneration was evaluated with MRI MOCART scoring system at 6, 12 and 24 months. An external independent agency was involved to ensure data correctness and objectiveness.

Results

A statistically significant improvement of all clinical scores was obtained from basal evaluation to 2-year follow-up in both groups, although no overall statistically significant differences were detected between the two treatments. Conversely, the subgroup of patients affected by deep osteochondral lesions (i.e. Outerbridge grade IV and OCD) showed a statistically significant better IKDC subjective outcome (+12.4 points, p = 0.036) in the coll-HA group. Statistically significant better results were also found for another challenging group: sport active patients (+16.0, p = 0.027). Severe adverse events related to treatment were documented only in three patients in the coll-HA group and in one in the BMS group. The MOCART score showed no statistical difference between the two groups.

Conclusions

This study highlighted the safety and potential of a biomimetic implant. While no statistically significant differences were found compared to BMS for chondral lesions, this procedure can be considered a suitable option for the treatment of osteochondral lesions.

Level of evidence

I.

     

Platelet-rich plasma intra-articular injections for cartilage degeneration and osteoarthritis: single- versus double-spinning approach

Purpose

To compare the safety and efficacy of two different approaches of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) production methods as intra-articular injection treatment for knee cartilage degenerative lesions and osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

The study involved 144 symptomatic patients affected by cartilage degenerative lesions and OA. Seventy-two patients were treated with 3 injections of platelet concentrate prepared with a single-spinning procedure (PRGF), the other 72 with 3 injections of PRP obtained with a double-spinning approach. The patients were evaluated prospectively at the enrollment and at 2, 6, and 12 months’ follow-up with IKDC, EQ-VAS and Tegner scores; adverse events and patient satisfaction were also recorded.

Results

Both treatment groups presented a statistically significant improvement in all the scores evaluated at all the follow-up times. Better results were achieved in both groups in younger patients with a lower degree of cartilage degeneration. The comparative analysis showed similar improvements with the two procedures: in particular, IKDC subjective evaluation increased from 45.0 ± 10.1 to 59.0 ± 16.2, 61.3 ± 16.3, and 61.6 ± 16.2 at 2, 6, and 12 months in the PRGF group, and from 42.1 ± 13.5 to 60.8 ± 16.6, 62.5 ± 19.9, and 59.9 ± 20.0 at 2, 6, and 12 months in the PRP group, respectively. Concerning adverse events, more swelling (P = 0.03) and pain reaction (P = 0.0005), were found after PRP injections.

Conclusions

Although PRP injections produced more pain and swelling reaction with respect to that produced by PRGF, similar results were found at the follow-up times, with a significant clinical improvement with respect to the basal level. Better results were achieved in younger patients with a low degree of cartilage degeneration.

Level of evidence

II.     

Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction with bioactive synthetic ligament is an option. A 3-year follow-up study

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate mid-term follow-up results of medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction using a bioactive synthetic ligament in the treatment of objective patellofemoral (PF) instability.

Methods

Sixteen patients (18 knees) presenting with objective PF instability underwent a MPFL reconstruction, isolated or associated with other surgical procedures for PF stabilization. All patients were clinically evaluated at a minimum follow-up of 3 years. Kujala, subjective IKDC and KOOS scores were used to assess clinical outcome. Pre-operative and post-operative pain was quantified with VAS scale and the overall satisfaction graded according to Insall and Crosby. Although none of the patients in this series were involved in high-level sports activity because of patellofemoral instability, activity level pre-operatively and at follow-up were evaluated according to Tegner scale.

Results

No recurrence of dislocation was observed in this series. The overall satisfaction rate was 88.8 %. Kujala score improved significantly from 57 ± 8.4 to 84.3 ± 10.2 points (p < .01). Both subjective IKDC (42.4 ± 7.13 to 70.1 ± 3.9) and KOOS (62.7 ± 4.34 to 82.8 ± 8.8) significantly improved from pre-operative evaluation (p < .01). VAS decreased from a mean pre-operative value of 2.5 ± 1.6 to 1.4 ± 1.5 at 3 years follow-up. Only one patient required revision debridement surgery for persistent medial epicondylar pain.

Conclusions

Isolated or associated MPFL reconstruction with bioactive synthetic ligament is a valid option in surgical treatment of objective PF instability, with results at mid-term follow-up comparable to autologous graft, thus minimizing donor-site morbidity and associated complications.

Level of evidence

IV.     

Nonoperative treatment for anterior cruciate ligament injury in recreational alpine skiers

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to test whether low-grade Lachman test (i.e. Grade 0–1+) and a negative pivot shift at 6–12 weeks post-ACL rupture in recreational alpine skiers can be used to predict good function and normal knee laxity in nonoperated patients at minimum 2 years after the injury.

Methods

Office registry was used to identify 63 recreational alpine skiers treated by the senior author within 6 weeks of a first-time ACL injury between 2003 and 2008. Of these, 34 had early ACL reconstruction but 29 patients were observed and re-evaluated. Office charts and MRI were reviewed. Inclusion criteria for this study were as follows: ACL rupture documented on MRI after the injury, and minimum 2-year follow-up. Exclusion criterion was contralateral knee ligament injury. Of the 29 patients treated nonoperatively, 17 had low-grade Lachman and negative pivot shift tests within 6–12 weeks after the injury and were recommended to continue follow-up without surgery. Of these 17 patients, 6 were lost to follow up, but 11 patients were recalled and evaluated at more than 2 years after the injury. They completed Marx and Tegner activity level and IKDC subjective scores, physical examination of the knee and KT-1000 anterior laxity assessment.

Results

Median age at injury was 43 years (range 29–58). Median follow-up was 42 months (range 30–68). Mean IKDC subjective score at latest follow-up was 91.6 ± 6.7. Median Tegner score was 6 (range 6–9) before the injury and 6 (range 4–6) at latest follow-up (p = n.s). Median Marx score was 6 (range 0–16) before the injury and 4 (range 0–12) at latest follow-up (p = 0.03). Ten patients had Lachman Grade 0–1+, and one had Lachman Grade 2+ at latest follow-up. KT-1000 showed mean side-to-side difference of 0.8 ± 1.6 mm, and less than 3 mm difference in the 10 patients with Lachman Grade 0–1+.

Conclusion

Recreational alpine skiers who sustain ACL injury should be re-evaluated at 6–12 weeks after the injury rather than being operated acutely. If they have negative Lachman and pivot shift tests at that point, they can be treated without surgery since good outcome and normal knee anterior laxity at more than 2 years after the injury is expected.

Level of evidence

Case series, Level IV.     

Gender differences following computer-navigated single- and double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Purpose

Female patients not only demonstrate an increased risk for injury, but also a poorer response following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture. However, no study has investigated gender-related differences between computer-navigated single-bundle (SB) and double-bundle (DB) ACL reconstruction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of gender on the outcome of computer-navigated SB and DB ACL reconstruction and to present reference values.

Methods

A retrospective review of 55 consecutive patients who underwent SB (15 males, 12 females) and DB (18 males, 10 females) ACL reconstruction with autogenous hamstring tendon grafts and showed a minimum follow-up of 24 months was conducted. Intraoperatively, the anteroposterior and rotational laxity were measured and the follow-up examination included pivot-shift testing, KT-1000 arthrometer testing, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) form, the Lysholm score and Tegner score.

Results

Pre-operatively, female patients showed a significant higher internal rotation in (p < 0.001) both the SB and DB group. Regarding the post-operative reduction in internal rotation, females in the SB group revealed a greater reduction compared to males (p < 0.001), whereas females in the DB group revealed a significantly greater post-operative reduction in anterior–posterior translation (p = 0.04). Female patients following DB ACL reconstruction presented a significant worse IKDC score, Lysholm score and Tegner score compared to male patients. All score values of the female DB group were worse than in the female SB group. In contrast, male patients showed better results of all examined clinical scores following DB procedure compared to SB technique.

Conclusion

Female patients who underwent computer-navigated DB ACL reconstruction exhibited significantly worse outcome scores than males who underwent DB ACL reconstruction. The gender-based relationship between joint function and outcome after ACL reconstruction remains unclear and requires further investigation.

Level of evidence

Retrospective case–control series, Level III.     

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with 4-strand hamstring autograft and accelerated rehabilitation: a 10-year prospective study on clinical results, knee osteoarthritis and its predictors

Purpose

Analysis of long-term clinical and radiological outcomes after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with special attention to knee osteoarthritis and its predictors.

Methods

A prospective, consecutive case series of 100 patients. Arthroscopic transtibial ACL reconstruction was performed using 4-strand hamstring tendon autografts with a standardized accelerated rehabilitation protocol. Analysis was performed preoperatively and 10 years postoperatively. Clinical examination included Lysholm and Tegner scores, IKDC, KT-1000 testing (MEDmetric Co., San Diego, CA, USA) and leg circumference measurements. Radiological evaluation included AP weight bearing, lateral knee, Rosenberg and sky view X-rays. Radiological classifications were according to Ahlbäck and Kellgren & Lawrence. Statistical analysis included univariate and multivariate logistic regressions.

Results

Clinical outcome A significant improvement (p < 0.001) between preoperative and postoperative measurements could be demonstrated for the Lysholm and Tegner scores, IKDC patient subjective assessment, KT-1000 measurements, pivot shift test, IKDC score and one-leg hop test. A pivot shift phenomenon (glide) was still present in 43 (50 %) patients and correlated with lower levels of activity (p < 0.022). Radiological outcome: At follow-up, 46 (53.5 %) patients had signs of osteoarthritis (OA). In this group, 33 patients (72 %) had chondral lesions (≥grade 2) at the time of ACL reconstruction. A history of medial meniscectomy before or at the time of ACL reconstruction increased the risk of knee OA 4 times (95 % CI 1.41–11.5). An ICRS grade 3 at the time of ACL reconstruction increased the risk of knee OA by 5.2 times (95 % CI 1.09–24.8). There was no correlation between OA and activity level (Tegner score ≥6) nor between OA and a positive pivot shift test.

Conclusion

Transtibial ACL reconstruction with 4-strand hamstring autograft and accelerated rehabilitation restored anteroposterior knee stability. Clinical parameters and patient satisfaction improved significantly. At 10-year follow-up, radiological signs of OA were present in 53.5 % of the subjects. Risk factors for OA were meniscectomy prior to or at the time of ACL reconstruction and chondral lesions at the time of ACL reconstruction.

Level of evidence

II.     

Use of cell-free collagen type I matrix implants for the treatment of small cartilage defects in the knee: clinical and magnetic resonance imaging evaluation

Purpose

Articular cartilage defects of the knee are a common condition for which several repair techniques have been described. The aim of the present study was to assess medium-term results of a one-step procedure using a cell-free collagen type I matrix.

Methods

Fifteen patients with articular cartilage defects of the knee were treated with an 11-mm-diameter cell-free collagen type 1 matrix implant. The matrices were implanted in a press-fit manner into the defect after careful debridement down to the subchondral bone but without penetration of this margin. Follow-up examinations were carried out at 6 weeks, 6 months, and at 12, 24, 36, and 48 months after implantation. Clinical assessment included the visual analogue scale (VAS), the Tegner activity scale, and the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score. Radiological assessment for graft attachment and tissue regeneration was performed using the magnetic observation of cartilage repair tissue (MOCART) score.

Results

A total of 15 patients (males: n = 6 and females: n = 9) with a mean age of 26.4 years (range 19–40) were treated. The mean VAS improved significantly when compared to the preoperative values (P < 0.05). Six weeks after implantation, IKDC values were slightly lower than the preoperative values (n.s.), but increased significantly at final follow-up (P < 0.05). At 24 months, there were no significant differences in the median Tegner score between the post-operative values and the preoperative values (n.s.). However, after 36 months, a significant improvement was noted that lasted at least up to 48 months (P < 0.05). The MOCART score improved consistently up to 4 years after implantation, with significant improvements already observed after 12 months (P < 0.05). No correlation between the clinical scores and the MOCART score could be perceived.

Conclusion

The present study showed that the use of cell-free collagen type I matrix implants led to a significant and durable improvement in all the clinical and imaging scores investigated 4 years after implantation.

Level of evidence

IV.     

Long-term follow-up of ACL reconstruction with hamstring autograft

Purpose

To investigate the differences in the incidence and severity of knee osteoarthritis (OA), joint space narrowing, knee laxity, and knee flexion and extension strength between an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)-reconstructed knee and the contralateral non-reconstructed limb.

Methods

Retrospective case series of patients from a single surgeon that had an ACL reconstruction with a semitendinosus/gracilis autograft more than 12 years ago. Outcome measures included radiographic analysis, International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Evaluation Form (IKDC), KT-1000, Tegner Activity Level Scale, Lysholm Knee Score, ACL quality of life score (ACL-QOL) and knee flexor/extensor strength.

Results

Seventy-four patients consented and sixty-eight (43 male, 25 female) were included for analysis. Average age (SD) at the time of surgery was 31.2 (±9.1) years. At follow-up of 14.6 (1.9) years, 9 % had re-ruptured their ACL, whereas 5 % ruptured the contralateral ACL. Reconstructed knees had a greater incidence and severity of OA (P < 0.01). Medial meniscus surgery was a strong predictor of OA. Seventy-five per cent scored a normal or nearly normal knee on the IKDC. The mean Lysholm score was 75.8 % and Tegner Activity Level Scale scores decreased (P < 0.001) from the time of surgery. Knee extension strength was greater in the contralateral knee at speeds of 60°/s (P = 0.014) and 150°/s (P = 0.012).

Conclusions

Reconstructed knees have a greater incidence and severity of OA than non-reconstructed knees, which suggests degenerative changes are secondary to ACL rupture. Medial meniscus surgery is a strong predictor of OA. Despite this, 75 % of patients reported good outcomes.     

Returning to sports after surgical repair of acute proximal hamstring ruptures

Purpose

Although the treatment of choice for acute proximal hamstring ruptures is now surgical repair, this technique is relatively new and requires further evaluation. Our hypothesis was that patients return to sports at the same level after surgical repair as before injury.

Methods

From 2002 to 2011, a prospective observational study including 34 patients, mean age 39.3 ± 11.4 years old underwent surgical repair of an acute proximal hamstring rupture. Surgical, rehabilitation and follow-up protocols were standardized. Mean follow-up was 27.2 ± 22.9 months and there were no lost to follow-up. The primary outcome was the level of activity on the UCLA and Tegner scores.

Results

The mean UCLA score was 9.1 ± 1.3 before injury and 8.7 ± 1.7 at the final follow-up (p = 0.03). The median Tegner activity level was 6 (range, 4–10) before injury and 6 (range, 3–10) at the final follow-up (p = 0.05). The two scores were correlated (r = 0.76, p = 0.00001). Patients returned to sports within a mean 5.7 ± 1.6 months, at the same level in 27 patients (79.4 %) and at a lower level in 7 patients (20.6 %). The average hamstring/quadriceps ratio at 240°/second was 54.7 ± 8.6 % which was positively correlated to the level of activity on the UCLA score (r = 0.49, n.s.). The level of satisfaction was related to their level of activity at the final follow-up (p = 0.03).

Conclusion

Although surgical repair of acute proximal hamstring ruptures has significantly improved the functional prognosis of patients it remains a serious condition that can compromise future sports activities.

Level of evidence

Case–control study, Level III.     

The use of fibrin matrix-mixed gel-type autologous chondrocyte implantation in the treatment for osteochondral lesions of the talus

Purpose

This study assessed the clinical results and second-look arthroscopy after fibrin matrix-mixed gel-type autologous chondrocyte implantation to treat osteochondral lesions of the talus.

Methods

Chondrocytes were harvested from the cuboid surface of the calcaneus in 38 patients and cultured, and gel-type autologous chondrocyte implantation was performed with or without medial malleolar osteotomy. Preoperative American orthopedic foot and ankle society ankle-hind foot scores, visual analogue score, Hannover scoring system and subjective satisfaction were investigated, and the comparison of arthroscopic results (36/38, 94.7 %) and MRI investigation of chondral recovery was performed. Direct tenderness and relationship to the active daily life of the donor site was evaluated.

Results

The preoperative mean ankle–hind foot scores (71 ± 14) and Hannover scoring system (65 ± 10) had increased to 91 ± 12 and 93 ± 14, respectively, at 24-month follow-up (p < 0.0001), and the preoperative visual analogue score of 58 mm had decreased to 21 mm (p < 0.0001). Regarding subjective satisfaction, 34 cases (89.5 %) reported excellent, good or fair. Chondral regeneration was analysed by second-look arthroscopy and MRI. Complications included one non-union and two delayed-unions of the osteotomy sites, and 9 ankles (9/31, 29.0 %) sustained damaged medial malleolar cartilage due to osteotomy. Marked symptoms at the biopsy site did not adversely affect the patient’s active daily life.

Conclusions

Fibrin matrix-mixed gel-type autologous chondrocyte implantation using the cuboid surface of the calcaneus as a donor can be used for treating osteochondral lesions of the talus.

Level of evidence

Therapeutic study, prospective case series, Level IV.     

Anatomic medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction using patellar suture anchor fixation for recurrent patellar instability

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to prospectively evaluate clinical and radiographic outcomes following anatomic medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction using patellar suture anchor fixation for recurrent patellar instability.

Methods

Twenty patients (20 knees) were enrolled in this study. The median age was 21 years, and the median follow-up was 34.5 months. Reconstruction was performed using a hamstring autograft fixed with two suture anchors at native patellar site of the MPFL. No patient had undergone additional medial tibial tuberosity transfer. Clinical scores (Kujala, Lysholm, and Tegner score) and apprehension test were completed preoperatively and at the follow-up. Preoperative and follow-up radiographic assessments included modified Insall-Salvati ratio, congruence angle, and lateral patellofemoral angle.

Results

The preoperative Kujala and Lysholm scores were 52.6 ± 12.4 and 49.2 ± 10.7, and at follow-up visits, corresponding values were 90.9 ± 4.5 (p < 0.001) and 90.9 ± 5.2 (p < 0.001). Tegner score increased from 3.0 (range 1–4) to 5.0 (range 4–7) (p < 0.001). The apprehension test was positive in all patients preoperatively, but only positive in one patient at follow-up. All radiographic assessments were significantly improved; modified Insall-Salvati index (from 1.75 to 1.65) (p = 0.002), congruence angle (from 6.3° to ?7.0°) (p < 0.001), and lateral patellofemoral angle (from 2.1° to 4.9°) (p = 0.008). No patient experienced a patellar fracture or redislocation.

Conclusion

These results are comparable to those of bone tunnel techniques reported in the literature. This study shows that anatomic MPFL reconstruction using two suture anchors is a reliable treatment option.

Level of evidence

Case series with no comparison group, Level IV.