Revision hip arthroscopic surgery: outcome at three years

Purpose

This study describes the medium-term results of revision hip arthroscopy.

Methods

Patients with persistent hip pain and a positive impingement sign were considered for revision surgery after the exclusion of other causes of groin pain. Seventy-four consecutive patients were prospectively assessed using the modified Harris hip score for a period of 3 years after surgery. Of the 74 patients, 11 had inadequate follow-up data; thus, a total of 63 patients were qualified for the study. The mean age at index surgery was 37 years, comprising 27 males and 36 females.

Results

Revision surgery was performed at a mean of 3 years from index surgery. Chondral lesion associated with labral re-injury was the most common finding at revision arthroscopy. In contrast to other authors, however, only 31 % of our patients underwent revision for persistent femoroacetabular impingement. The mean pre-operative mHHS for all 63 patients was 54 (SD 14.5). The mean post-operative mHHS was 53 (SD 14.9) at 6 weeks, 62 (SD 17.5) at 6 months, 63 (SD 16.5) at 1 year, 64 (SD 16.5) at 2 years and 59 (SD 16.5) at 3 years (p = n.s., 0.02, 0.045, 0.039 and n.s., respectively).

Conclusions

Revision arthroscopy results in improvement in outcome in the first 3 years after revision surgery with a success rate of 63.4 % at 1 year, falling to 55.6 % by 3 years.

Level of evidence

IV.     

Modest mid-term outcomes after isolated arthroscopic debridement of acetabular labral tears

Purpose

Currently, there is a paucity of literature regarding outcomes after isolated labral debridement. The purpose of this study was to (1) report the reoperation rate following isolated labral debridement, (2) report clinical and functional outcomes after labral debridement with a minimum 2-year follow-up and (3) identify risk factors for worse clinical and functional outcomes. It was hypothesized that inferior outcomes are associated with an increasing Tönnis grade and those with untreated femoral acetabular impingement (FAI).

Methods

The records of patients undergoing hip arthroscopy between 1998 and 2005 were reviewed. Patients with labral tears who underwent isolated arthroscopic labral debridement were identified. Kaplan–Meier estimate of failure (defined as subsequent surgery) was performed for all patients. Patients with minimum 2-year follow-up were assessed with Modified Harris Hip Score (MHHS) and Hip Outcome Score (HOS). Univariate analysis was then performed to assess which factors were associated with worse clinical and functional outcomes.

Results

Fifty-nine hips in 57 patients met our inclusion criteria (39 females, 18 males) with a mean age of 46 ± 14 years and mean follow-up of 5 (range 2–14) years. Overall, 45 % of the hips failed for repeat surgery (20 %) or rating for hip function as abnormal or severely abnormal (25 %). Twelve hips (20 %) required subsequent surgical intervention at a mean 23 (range 6–60) months (7 total hip arthroplasties, 2 open revisions, 3 arthroscopic revisions). Of the remaining hips, mean MHHS was 83.4 ± 19.7, mean HOS ADL score was 83.8 ± 21.3 and mean HOS sport score was 70.6 ± 32.9, with 33 of 41 (75 %) reporting normal or nearly normal current level of function. Univariate analysis revealed that hips with untreated bony impingement (p = 0.01) or requiring concomitant chondroplasty (p = 0.03) had inferior clinical outcome scores.

Conclusions

Isolated arthroscopic labral debridement for hip labral tears had 45 % combined poor results when strictly defining failure as repeat surgery or abnormal hip rating. Untreated FAI and concomitant chondroplasty were risk factors for inferior outcome. We recommend concomitant treatment for bony impingement lesions and preservation of the labrum whenever possible.

Level of evidence

Retrospective case series, Level IV.     

Pre-operative intra-articular hip injection as a predictor of short-term outcome following arthroscopic management of femoroacetabular impingement

Purpose

Diagnostic hip injections are often used to confirm intra-articular pathology prior to arthroscopic treatment for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). However, little is known whether the type of response correlates with the post-operative functional outcomes. The purpose of this study is to document the ability of a diagnostic hip injection to predict short-term functional outcomes following arthroscopic surgical management.

Methods

A prospective cohort of 52 patients diagnosed with FAI who had an intra-articular hip injection prior to arthroscopic surgery was evaluated. A pain diary was used during the 2 weeks after hip injection to document response. In addition, the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) was administered preoperatively and 6 months post-operatively to assess functional outcomes. The relationship between response to an intra-articular hip injection and mHHS scores 6 months after FAI surgery was evaluated.

Results

Overall, 42 of 52 (81 %) patients diagnosed with FAI achieved pain relief from the hip injection. Outcomes according to mHHS scores improved significantly at the 6-month follow-up visit (19 points, 95 % CI 15–24, p = 0.001). The therapeutic utility of the hip injection suggested that lack of pain relief predicted a lack of functional improvement following arthroscopic surgery.

Conclusion

In this study, the data suggests that a positive response from an intra-articular hip injection is not a strong predictor of short-term functional outcomes following arthroscopic management of FAI. However, a negative response from an intra-articular hip injection may predict a higher likelihood of having a negative result from surgery.

Level of evidence

Level II.     

The feasibility and results of an arthroscopic removal of humeral locking plates and glenohumeral arthrolysis after proximal humeral fractures

Purpose

This study describes the use of standard shoulder arthroscopy techniques to remove a proximal humerus locking plate following proximal humerus fracture. The goal of this study was to assess the feasibility and results of this technique.

Methods

This was a retrospective non-comparative study. Inclusion criteria were fracture union when hardware was removed, significant residual glenohumeral stiffness after 6 months of physiotherapy, arthrogenic screw(s) and/or osteonecrosis (partial or complete) of the humeral head resulting in significant pain.

Results

Eleven patients were included in this study. Surgery was successful in all cases, and surgery lasted a mean of 105 ± 10.5 min. Patients’ mean age was 54.6 ± 10.6 years and the mean hospital stay 1.6 ± 0.8 days. No patient was lost to follow-up. At the mean last follow-up of 17.7 ± 23.4 months, pain and all functional parameters improved significantly: the Constant score (43.4 ± 8.8 vs 60.5 ± 0.3, p = 0.003), the visual analogue pain score (4.7 ± 1.5 vs 2.8 ± 2.3, p = 0.012), the shoulder abduction (77.7 ± 18.6 vs 104.5 ± 27.3, p = 0.004), the flexion (85.9 ± 30.7 vs 97.7 ± 27.7, p = 0.026) and the external rotation (15 ± 12 vs 31.8 ± 13.6, p = 0.004). Internal rotation improved from L3 to T12. All seven patients who practiced sports before the initial fracture had returned to sports approximately 6 months postoperatively. No infections or wound dehiscence occurred.

Conclusion

Shoulder arthroscopy was found to be feasible for removal of hardware following proximal humeral fracture and can be associated with diagnostic and therapeutic arthroscopy and glenohumeral arthrolysis if required.

Level of evidence

Case series with no comparison group, Level IV.     

Combined use of percutaneous cryoablation and vertebroplasty with 3D rotational angiograph in treatment of single vertebral metastasis: comparison with vertebroplasty

Introduction

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of combined procedure of cryoablation and vertebroplasty (CVT) for reduction of pain and improvement of the quality of life in patients with single painful metastatic vertebral fractures.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data from 23 patients with single vertebral metastasis treated with combined procedure of CVT, compared with those obtained in 23 patients treated by vertebroplasty. Pain intensity was evaluated by a visual analog scale (VAS) score administered before and 1 day, 1 week, and 1, 3, and 6 months after procedure. Quality of life was evaluated by an Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score administered before and at 3 and 6 months after procedure.

Results

Procedural success was achieved in all patients without any complications. The VAS and ODI scores showed a reduction in both groups during follow-up (VAS score, p?<?0.05 and p?<?0.001, respectively; ODI score, p?<?0.0001). No difference of the VAS and ODI scores were observed before treatment (p?=?0.33 and 0.78, respectively). VAS score showed a difference at 1 week and 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment (p?<?0.001). ODI score showed a difference at 3 and 6 months after treatment (p?<?0.001).

Conclusion

Our findings suggested that combined procedure of CVT is safe and effective for pain relief in single metastatic vertebral fractures, especially when other standard palliative treatments have failed, and improves disability. Careful needle positioning and accurate fluoroscopic and CT guidance are mandatory for a complication-free treatment.     

A single application of low-energy radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy is effective for the management of chronic patellar tendinopathy

Purpose

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (SWT) is effective for the management of chronic recalcitrant tendinopathy. The objective of the current study was to assess whether a standardized, single treatment SWT is effective for the management of chronic patellar tendinopathy

Methods

Thirty-three patients with chronic patellar tendinopathy received low-energy SWT. Thirty-three patients with chronic patellar tendinopathy received other forms of non-operative therapy (control group). Evaluation was by change in Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Victoria Institute of Sport Assessment score for patellar tendinopathy (VISA-P) score and by Roles and Maudsley Score.

Results

Mean pre-treatment VAS scores for the control and SWT groups were 7.5 and 7.8, respectively. One month, 3 months, and 12 months after treatment, the mean VAS for the control and SWT groups were 6.7 and 4.3 (p < 0.001), 5.9 and 3.5 (p < 0.001), and 5.1 and 2.7 (p < 0.001), respectively. One month, 3 months, and 12 months after treatment, the mean VISA for the control and SWT groups were 50.7 and 65.5 (p < 0.001), 52.1 and 71 (p < 0.001), and 54.9 and 74.5 (p < 0.001), respectively. At final follow-up, the number of excellent, good, fair, and poor results for the SWT and control groups were 8 and 3 (p < 0.001), 17 and 10 (p < 0.001), 5 and 16 (p < 0.001), and 3 and 4 (p < 0.001), respectively. The percentage of patients with excellent (“1”) or good (“2”) Roles and Maudsley Scores (i.e. successful results) 12 months after treatment was statistically greater in the SWT group compared to the control group (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

A single application of radial SWT is an effective treatment for chronic patellar tendinopathy.

Level of evidence

III.     

Clinical outcomes after arthroscopic trans-tendon suture-bridge technique in partial-thickness articular-side rotator cuff tear

Purpose

We evaluated the functional and radiological outcomes of arthroscopic trans-tendon suture-bridge repair for partial-thickness articular-side rotator cuff tears.

Methods

From December 2008 to May 2010, 32 consecutive patients with partial-thickness articular-side rotator cuff tears prospectively underwent arthroscopic trans-tendon suture-bridge repair. We included patients with articular-side partial-thickness supraspinatus tears involving more than half the normal thickness. Patients underwent ultrasonography or magnetic resonance imaging postoperatively. The functional outcomes of patients were evaluated at a minimum 1 year postoperatively. The mean age and follow-up period for the patients were 51.8 ± 13.7 years and 17.4 ± 4.2 months, respectively. Five outcome measures were used before surgery and at the final follow-up: a visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, the Shoulder Rating Scale of the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA), the Constant–Murley score and range of motion (ROM).

Results

The radiological follow-up rate was 87.5 %, and the follow-up rate for clinical evaluation was 96.9 %. Mean UCLA, ASES and Constant–Murley scores improved from 19.1 ± 5.4, 45.2 ± 16.0 and 58.0 ± 19.6 preoperatively to 35.7 ± 8.5, 79.0 ± 15.8 and 78.1 ± 12.9 at final follow-up, respectively (all p ≤ 0.001). Mean VAS score and ROM (forward flexion) improved from 6.1 ± 1.9 and 140 ± 36.6 preoperatively to 2.6 ± 1.9 and 163 ± 25.2 at the final follow-up, respectively (p ≤ 0.001). Additionally, the postoperative radiological examination showed cuff integrity without retear in all patients.

Conclusions

Arthroscopic trans-tendon suture-bridge repair for partial-thickness articular-side rotator cuff tears resulted in significant improvement in function compared with that before the operation.     

Do blood growth factors offer additional benefit in refractory lateral epicondylitis? A prospective, randomized pilot trial of dry needling as a stand-alone procedure versus dry needling and autologous conditioned plasma

Objective

To evaluate whether autologous conditioned plasma offers any therapeutic advantage over ultrasound-guided dry needling as a stand-alone procedure in the treatment of refractory lateral epicondylitis.

Materials and methods

Prospective, randomized pilot study of 28 patients (11 men, 17 women, mean age, 49.1  years) with refractory lateral epicondylitis (mean symptom duration, 19.1 months) who underwent either dry needling (n?=?13) or dry needling combined with autologous conditioned plasma (ACP) injection (n?=?15). Each patient received two separate injections (0 weeks and 1 month) and analysis of visual analogue pain scores (VAS) and Nirschl scores were performed pre-procedure, at 2 months and final evaluation at 6 months. Successful treatment was defined as more than a 25 % reduction in pain scores without re-intervention. Data was analyzed using the Mann–Whitney test and local research ethics committee approval was obtained.

Results

At 2 months, the mean VAS improvement was 0.85 (12.3 %) in the dry needling group compared to 2.19 (27.1 %) in the ACP group (p?=?0.76) and there was a 5.83-point and 20.3-point Nirschl score improvement respectively (p?=?0.72). At the final follow-up of 6 months, the mean VAS improvement was 2.37 (34 %) in the dry needling group compared to 3.92 (48.5 %) in the ACP group (p?=?0.74) and there was a 22.5-point and 40-point Nirschl score improvement, respectively (p?=?0.82).

Conclusions

There is a trend to greater clinical improvement in the short term for patients treated with additional ACP, however no significant difference between the two treatment groups was demonstrated at each follow-up interval. A larger, multicenter, randomized controlled trial is required to corroborate the results of this pilot study.     

Increasing age and female gender are associated with early knee replacement following arthroscopy

Purpose

Early knee replacement following arthroscopy may be perceived as a failure of the original treatment and thus a poor use of resources. Factors that may be associated with increased risk of early replacement were explored in this study.

Methods

All adult patients who underwent planned knee arthroscopy in a national cohort over a 6-month period in 2005 were extracted from the administrative hospital admissions database and linked to determine whether and when a knee replacement occurred on the same knee within the subsequent 5 years. A combination of survival analysis and mixed effect modelling was used to investigate risk factors for replacement.

Results

There were a total of 20,556 arthroscopies, of which 2,161 (10.6 %) subsequently underwent knee replacement. For patients under 60 years, female gender (62.1 % higher risk, p < 0.001) and increasing age (12.7 % increased risk per increasing year of age, p < 0.001) were significant associations for requiring knee replacement, after risk adjusting. Of those aged ≥60, 12.7 % (576) had undergone a replacement at 1 year following arthroscopy. Females (33 % higher risk), increasing age (7.3 % increased risk per increasing year of age, p < 0.001) and hypertension (1,600 % higher risk, p < 0.001) were significant predictors. The risk associated with increased age was not proportional for the older age group, with risk declining as time passed from arthroscopy, indicating other factors were influencing progression to knee replacement.

Conclusions

The predictors of early knee replacement following arthroscopy were female sex, age over 60 years and hypertension, irrespective of type of operation. This work may contribute to national recommendations regarding the provision of arthroscopy for patients over 60 years.

Level of evidence

III.     

The association between Modic changes and pain during 1-year follow-up in patients with lumbar radicular pain

Objective

To examine whether Modic changes influence pain during a 1-year follow-up in patients with lumbar radicular pain.

Materials and Methods

A total of 243 patients with lumbar radicular pain due to disc herniation were recruited from two hospitals in Norway and followed up at 6 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months. On baseline lumbar magnetic resonance images, two observers independently evaluated Modic changes (types I–III; craniocaudal size 0–3). Outcomes were sensory pain (McGill Pain Questionnaire), back and leg pain (visual analogue scale, VAS). Association between Modic type and outcomes was explored with a mixed model and then by two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) at each time point with Modic and treatment groups (surgical, n?=?126; nonsurgical, n?=?117) as fixed factors, adjusted for disc degeneration, age, sex, smoking, and duration of radicular pain. Modic size was also analyzed using ANOVA.

Results

Pain scores had decreased significantly at 1-year follow-up. Modic type was significantly related to McGill sensory scores (mixed model: p?=?0.014–0.026; ANOVA: p?=?0.007 at 6 weeks), but not to VAS back pain or VAS leg pain scores. At 6 weeks, the mean McGill sensory score was higher in Modic I than in Modic II–III patients (p?=?0.003) and in patients without Modic changes (p?=?0.018). Modic size L1–S1 was not associated with pain outcomes.

Conclusion

Patients with lumbar radicular pain have a substantial pain reduction during 1-year follow-up, but Modic type I changes may imply a slower initial decrease in sensory pain.     

The hip fluid seal—Part I: the effect of an acetabular labral tear,repair, resection,and reconstruction on hip fluid pressurization

Purpose

The acetabular labrum is theorized to be important to normal hip function by creating intra-articular fluid pressurization through the hip fluid seal. However, the effect of a labral tear or partial labral resection, and interventions including labral repair and labral reconstruction, on the hip fluid seal remains to be defined. The purpose of this study was to characterize intra-articular fluid pressurization in six labral conditions: intact, tear, repair (looped vs. through sutures), partial resection, reconstruction with iliotibial band, and complete resection.

Methods

Eight cadaveric hips with a mean age of 47.8 years (SD 4.3, range 41–51) were included in the study. For each labral condition, the hip was compressed with a force of 2.7 times body weight (2,118 N) while intra-articular pressure was continuously measured with 1.0 × 0.3 mm pressure transducers. Peak intra-articular pressure measurements for each condition were normalized relative to the intact state. Statistical analyses were performed utilizing linear mixed-effects models with repeated measures analysis.

Results

Intra-articular fluid pressurization of the intact state varied from 78 to 422 kPa (mean 188 kPa ± SD 120). Labral tear, partial resection, and complete resection resulted in average pressurization of 75 ± 33, 53 ± 37, and 24 ± 18 %, respectively compared with the intact state. Through type labral repair resulted in significantly greater increases in pressurization from the labral tear state, compared with the looped type repair (median increase; +46 vs. ?12 %, p = 0.029). Labral reconstruction resulted in a mean pressurization of 110 ± 38 % relative to intact state, with a significant 56 ± 47 % improvement in pressurization compared with partial labral resection (p = 0.009).

Conclusions

Partial labral resection caused significant decreases in intra-articular fluid pressurization. Through type labral suture repair restored the fluid pressurization better than looped type repairs. Labral reconstruction significantly improved pressurization to levels similar to the intact state. This study demonstrated the effect of labral tears and partial resections on intra-articular fluid pressurization via the hip fluid seal, and it also demonstrated improvements in pressurization seen with through type labral repairs and labral reconstructions.     

Limited therapeutic benefits of intra-articular cortisone injection for patients with femoro-acetabular impingement and labral tear

Purpose

Intra-articular (IA) hip cortisone injection is commonly performed as a therapeutic modality in patients with femoral acetabular impingement (FAI). To our knowledge, there is no published data evaluating the clinical benefit of these injections. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of therapeutic IA cortisone injection in these patients.

Methods

At our institution, patients with FAI and labral tear prospectively recorded their numerical rating scale (NRS) pain scores pre-injection, during post-injection anaesthetic phase, and at 14 days post-injection. From this cohort, all patients treated with guided IA cortisone injection, no radiographic evidence of arthritis (Tönnis grade 0 or 1) and pain relief during the anaesthetic phase of the IA injection were included. An absolute change of two points on the NRS score was considered the minimal amount of clinically significant pain relief. Pain scores were compared between the different types of steroid injected.

Results

Fifty-four patients (35 females, 19 males) with a mean age of 32 ± 12 years were included. Average median pre-injection NRS score was 7.0 (range 2.5–10.0), post-injection anaesthetic phase was 1.0 (range 0.0–5.0), and 14 day post-injection was 5.0 (range 0.0–10.0). As a group, NRS scores significantly diminished from post-injection anaesthetic phase to 14 days post-injection (p < 0.001). At 14 days post-injection, only 20 patients (37 %) and at 6 weeks, only 3 patients (6 %) reported a clinically significant decrease in pain. Average duration of pain relief was 9.8 days. There was no difference in pain reduction between steroid preparations.

Conclusion

In patients with symptomatic FAI and labral tear, intra-articular cortisone injection has limited clinical benefit as a therapeutic modality. However, anaesthetic-only IA injections for patients who may be candidates for hip arthroscopy can be a useful diagnostic tool.

Level of evidence

Therapeutic case series, Level IV.     

The hip fluid seal—Part II: The effect of an acetabular labral tear,repair, resection,and reconstruction on hip stability to distraction

Purpose

The acetabular labrum is theorized to be important to normal hip function by providing stability to distraction forces through the suction effect of the hip fluid seal. The purpose of this study was to determine the relative contributions of the hip capsule and labrum to the distractive stability of the hip, and to characterize hip stability to distraction forces in six labral conditions: intact labrum, labral tear, labral repair (looped vs. through sutures), partial resection, labral reconstruction with iliotibial band, and complete resection.

Methods

Eight cadaveric hips with a mean age of 47.8 years (SD 4.3, range 41–51 years) were included. For each condition, the hip seal was broken by distracting the hip at a rate of 0.33 mm/s while the required force, energy, and negative intra-articular pressure were measured. For comparisons between labral conditions, measurements were normalized to the intact labral state (percent of intact).

Results

The relative contribution of the labrum to distractive stability was greatest at 1 and 2 mm of displacement, where it was significantly greater than the role of the capsule and accounted for 77 % (SD 27 %, p = 0.006) and 70 % (SD 7 %, p = 0.009) of total distractive stability, respectively. The relative contribution of the capsule to distractive stability increased with progressive displacement, providing 41 % (SD 49 %) and 52 % (SD 53 %) of distractive stability at 3 and 5 mm of distraction, respectively. The maximal distraction force required to break the hip seal in the intact labral state (capsule removed) varied from 124 to 150 N. Labral tear, partial resection, and complete resection resulted in average maximal distraction forces of 76 % (SD 34 %), 29 % (SD 26 %), and 27 % (SD 22 %), respectively, compared to the intact state. Through type labral repairs resulted in significantly greater improvements (from the labral tear state) in maximal negative pressure generated, compared to looped type repairs (median increase; +32 vs. ?9 %, p = 0.029). Labral reconstruction resulted in a mean maximal distraction force of 66 % (SD 35 %), with a significant improvement of 37 % compared to partial labral resection (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The acetabular labrum was the primary hip stabilizer to distraction forces at small displacements (1–2 mm). Partial labral resection significantly decreased the distractive strength of the hip fluid seal. Labral reconstruction significantly improved distractive stability, compared to partial labral resection. The results of this study may provide insight into the relative importance of the capsule and labrum to distractive stability of the hip and may help to explain hip microinstability in the setting of labral disease.     

Combination of Percutaneous Osteosynthesis and Vertebroplasty of Thoracolumbar Split Fractures Under CT and Fluoroscopy Guidance: A New Technique

Objectives

The purpose of our study was to evaluate the technical feasibility of the combination involving percutaneous screw fixation and vertebroplasty in split fractures of thoracolumbar spine.

Methods

Institutional review board approval and informed consent were obtained. Ten consecutive adult patients who had posttraumatic vertebral split fractures (Magerl A2) were prospectively treated by an interventional radiologist under computed tomography and fluoroscopy guidance. Using a bilateral route under local anesthesia, one 4.0-mm cannulated screw was placed on one side to fix the fracture, and on the other side, vertebroplasty was performed. Follow-up ranging from 12 to 24 months was assessed using visual analog scale (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI)

Results

Combined procedures were performed on thoracic and lumbar vertebrae, creating both osteosynthesis and cement bridge between the displaced fragment and the rest of the vertebral body. Mean VAS measurements ± standard deviation (SD) decreased from 7.5 ± 1.5 preoperatively to 3.2 ± 1.9 at 1 day, 2.1 ± 1.2 at 1 month, and 1.9 ± 1.4 at the last examination (P < 0.001). Mean ODI scores ± SD decreased from 65.3 ± 16.2, preoperatively, to 16.1 ± 5.0 at the final examination (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

This study suggests that type A2 vertebral fractures could be successfully stabilized by the combination of percutaneous osteosynthesis and vertebroplasty.     

Anterior fibrous bundle: a cause of residual pain and restrictive plantar flexion following ankle sprain

Purpose

To describe anterior fibrous bundle as an intra-articular residual disorder following ankle sprain.

Methods

Between January 1998 and January 2009, we performed arthroscopy on 10 patients (7 males, 3 females; median age, 25 years; age range, 17–43 years) who had the uncommon problem of anterior ankle pain accompanied by restriction of plantar flexion following an ankle sprain. Pre-operative magnetic resonance imaging revealed osteochondral lesions (OCLs) of the talar dome in 3 patients, but no other findings that could explain restricted plantar flexion. All patients underwent arthroscopy for investigation and treatment of the cause of symptoms, and the 3 patients with OCL underwent additional arthroscopic drilling. Outcome was measured using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot Scale (AOFAS) score, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain and active plantar flexion angle.

Results

In all patients, an anterior fibrous bundle was confirmed under arthroscopic investigation as the cause of symptoms and was resected arthroscopically. Median AOFAS and VAS scores improved significantly from 65 (range 61–82) and 70 (range 50–85) pre-operatively to 95 (range 84–100) and 4 (range 0–15) at final follow-up, respectively (p < 0.001). In addition, median active plantar flexion angle improved significantly from 40° (range 35–40) pre-operatively to 55° (range 45–55), (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

An anterior fibrous bundle is one of the intra-articular residual disorders after ankle sprain that can cause restriction of plantar flexion.

Level of evidence

Therapeutic case series, Level IV.     

The treatment of acquired patella baja with proximalize the tibial tuberosity

Purpose

Acquired patella baja may result in decreased range of motion of the knee, extensor lag, and anterior knee pain. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of tibial tubercle osteotomy with proximal displacement.

Methods

Between 1998 and 2011, a proximalization of the tibial tuberosity was performed in 15 patients (15 knees) with patella baja diagnosed using the Blackburne–Peel ratio. Clinical outcomes included the Tegner Lysholm knee scoring scales, the WOMAC questionnaire, the short form-12 (SF-12), and a visual analogue score (VAS) pain scale.

Results

Fifteen proximalizations of the tibial tuberosity were performed, with a mean follow-up period of 64 months (5–160). The mean patient age was 59 years (41–86 years). The mean preoperative Blackburne–Peel ratio of 0.4 (0.1–0.6) was improved to a mean of 1.0 (0.8–1.2) post-operatively, which was associated with significant improvements in the Lysholm knee scoring scale from 13.3 ± 13.0 to 86.7 ± 10.4 points (p < 0.0001). Quality of life, as measured using the SF-12 outcome, also improved significantly (p < 0.0001), as did all WOMAC questionnaire score subscales (p < 0.0001). The VAS preoperative status for pain improved from 8.3 ± 2.0 to 1.5 ± 1.8. No patient had delayed or non-union of the osteotomy site.

Conclusions

A series of patients with patella baja, treated with proximalization of the tibial tuberosity, achieved satisfactory outcomes in terms of pain relief and improved function, without major complication.     

Bony periosteum-covered iliac crest plug transplantation for severe osteochondral lesions of the talus: a modified mosaicplasty procedure

Purpose

This study reports first evidence of a modified procedure for osteochondral autologous transplantation where bony periosteum-covered plugs are harvested at the iliac crest and transplanted into the talar osteochondral lesion.

Methods

Thirteen out of 14 patients, average age 39.6 (SD 14.4) years, were followed clinically and radiographically for a median of 25 (24–28) months (minimal follow-up, 24 months).

Results

For these 13 patients, the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society hindfoot score increased from 47 (SD 11) points pre-operatively, to 81 (SD 14) points postoperatively (p < 0.0001). The average pain score decreased from 6.6 (SD 1.3) points pre-operatively, to 1.4 (SD 1.9) points postoperatively (p < 0.0001). Seven patients returned to sports activity. Radiographically good plug osteointegration was observed in nine out of 11 ankles. Follow-up arthroscopy showed fibrous cartilage in four ankles, periosteum hypertrophy in five ankles, and partial or total missing of coverage of the bone in three ankles. Three revision surgeries had to be performed.

Conclusions

This modified mosaicplasty might be recommended for severe and recurrent osteochondral lesions of the talus and may lead to restoration of the subchondral bone stock, formation of fibro-cartilage, and stable joint function.

Level of evidence

IV.     

An arthroscopic pleated capsular shift for recurrent anterior dislocation of the shoulder

Purpose

This study examined the clinical results of an arthroscopic simple pleated capsular shift to treat severe recurrent anterior dislocation of the shoulder.

Methods

Twenty-four patients with anterior labroligamentous periosteal sleeve avulsion or advanced lesions who underwent an arthroscopic simple pleated capsular shift were included in this study. To create an arthroscopic simple pleated capsular shift, redundant capsules, including glenohumeral ligaments, were brought at least 1 cm lateral and 1 cm inferior and shifted to the prepared glenoid. Four sutures were made at the 5, 4, 3, and 1–2 o’clock positions with four anchors. Clinical results were evaluated using a visual analog scale (VAS), ROWE scores, active motion, and return to activity. Statistical analyses were carried out using paired t tests.

Results

Three out of 24 patients had complaints. Two patients with recurrent instability underwent a repeat surgery, while the other patient complained of a stiff shoulder. There was a significant improvement in the VAS and ROWE scores post-operatively versus pre-operatively (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, respectively), but no significant differences in active motion except for external rotation, which decreased post-operatively (p = 0.02).

Conclusions

In patients with severe recurrent anterior dislocation, simple pleated capsular shift provided a reliable result. Four capsular shift sutures, 1 cm lateral and 1 cm inferior from the glenoid, were sufficient to reduce shoulder joint volume and restore stability. The arthroscopic capsular shift could be an alternative method in the case of no available labral lesion for repair.

Level of evidence

Case series, Therapeutic, Level IV.     

Embolization of Incompetent Pelvic Veins for the Treatment of Recurrent Varicose Veins in Lower Limbs and Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

Purpose

We present our experience with embolization of incompetent pelvic veins (IPV) in women with recurrence of varicose veins (VV) in lower limbs, as well as symptoms of pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS), after first surgery. In addition, we evaluated the effects of embolization in decreasing the symptoms of VV before surgery as well as its effects on PCS symptoms.

Materials and Methods

We included 10 women who had consulted a vascular surgeon because of recurrent VV in lower limbs after surgery. All of these patients were included in the study because they also had symptoms of PCS, probably due to IPV. In patients who had confirmed IPV, we performed embolization before a second surgery. VV and PCS were assessed before and at 3 months after embolization (before the second surgery) using a venous clinical severity score (VCSS) and a visual analog pain scale (VAS), respectively. Patients were controlled between 3 and 6 months after embolization. Paired Student t test analysis was used for comparing data before and after embolization.

Results

Fifteen vein segments in 10 women were suitable for embolization. There was a significant (p < 0.001) decrease of VCSS after embolization, and recurrence of VV was not detected within a period of 6 months. There was also significant (p < 0.01) relief of chronic pelvic pain related to PCS evaluated using VAS at 3 months after embolization.

Conclusion

Embolization decreases the risk of VV recurrence after surgery and also improves PCS symptoms in women with VV in lower limbs and IPV.     

Hemophilic Chronic Synovitis: Therapy of Hemarthrosis using Endovascular Embolization of Knee and Elbow Arteries

Purpose

Congenital hemophilia is a hereditary bleeding disorder that affects 1 in 5,000 males and is characterized by repetitive musculoskeletal bleeding episodes. Selective embolization of the knee and elbow arteries can prevent bleeding episodes. To evaluate the long-term efficacy of these procedures, we assessed the outcomes of 30 procedures performed in our center.

Methods

We performed 30 procedures in 27 hemophilic patients, including 23 knee, and 7 elbow procedures. To evaluate the efficacy of selective embolization of knee and elbow arteries in people with hemophilia, we analyzed the number of bleeding episodes during 12 months before the procedure compared with the amount of episodes that occurred 3, 6, and 12 months after embolization.

Results

Twenty-nine of 30 procedures were classified as successful. The median of 1.25 episodes per month (range 0–3) observed before the procedure was reduced to 0 (range 0–1.67; p < 0.001) at 3 months, 0.17 (range 0–1.67; p < 0.001) at 6 months, and 0.33 (range 0–1.67; p = 0.024) at 12 months. Three patients remained free of bleeding events for more than 6 months. Additionally, after the procedure there was a significant reduction in factor FVIII usage that sustained up to 12 months after the procedures. No serious adverse events were observed.

Conclusions

Selective angiographic embolization of knee and elbow arteries is a feasible procedure that can prevent repetitive bleedings, which would translate in better joint outcomes for these patients.