Objective: Lysholm and Tegner scores have been validated to assess outcomes of meniscus surgery. We prospectively determined Lysholm scores for function and calculated Tegner index to determine percentage of pre-injury activity level regained by patients six years after partial meniscectomy alone versus placement of collagen meniscus implants (CMI, MenaflexTM). We hypothesized that in this prospective randomized multicenter clinical trial, patients who received collagen meniscus implant would have better function and would have regained more of their lost activity than patients with meniscectomy alone. Methods: Patients 18 to 60 years old who had undergone 1 to 3 prior partial medial meniscectomies (thus deemed “chronic”) and remained symptomatic randomly received either a CMI (n=76) or another partial medial meniscectomy (control) (n=69). Lysholm and Tegner data were collected prospectively. Tegner index was calculated by subtracting preoperative Tegner scores from the longest follow-up scores and then dividing that difference by the difference of pre-injury less preoperative scores. The quotient multiplied by 100 yields a percentage that represents amount of lost activity regained as a result of therapeutic intervention. The findings were then compared to earlier analyses of the same patients. Results: Average follow-up for both groups was 72 months (range for CMI, 24 to 88; for controls, 24 to 92). For both groups, Lysholm scores improved significantly (p=0.0001) from preoperative to 6 years postoperative, but there was no difference between treatments. Average Tegner index for CMI patients was 0.47; thus, 6 years after receiving CMI they had regained 47% of activity lost due to the inciting injury. Average Tegner index for controls was 0.22; thus, they regained 22% of lost activity. This difference was clinically and statistically significant (p=0.028). The Lysholm scores for both groups were unchanged from 2-year findings; however, Tegner index for CMI patients improved from 0.42 to 0.47, but Tegner index decreased for controls from 0.29 earlier to 0.22 at 6 years. Conclusion: CMI (Menaflex) and partial meniscectomy both allowed chronic patients to regain function equally 6 years after index surgery. However, patients treated with CMI had significantly higher Tegner index at 6 years compared to controls, thus chronic CMI patients regained more of the activity they had lost as a result of their inciting injury. Noteworthy, CMI patients continued to gain activity from 2 to 6 years while meniscectomy only controls lost activity. These findings suggest that control patients reduced their activity levels in an attempt to maintain their function

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine psychometric properties of the Lysholm score and Tegner activity scale as patient-administered outcomes scores for anterior cruciate ligament injuries of the knee. We hypothesized that these two outcomes measures remain valid by today’s standards twenty-five years after they were originally introduced as physician-administered outcomes instruments. Methods: One thousand seven hundred eighty-three (1783) patients were included in this study. There were 749 females and 1034 males. Average age was 37 years (range, 18 to 77). Isolated ACL tears were documented in 593 patients, and 1190 patients had concurrent injuries including meniscus pathology and/or cartilage damage. Patients with multiple ligamentous injuries were excluded. All patients in this study were diagnosed with an ACL tear at arthroscopy. For responsiveness, scores were measured preoperatively and at a minimum of two years postoperatively. For test-retest, scores were measured at a minimum of two years postoperatively and again within four weeks of the original postoperative questionnaire. For criterion validity, patients completed the short form (SF-12. ®. ) of the health related quality-of-life scale and the IKDC score in addition to Lysholm and Tegner instruments. For all other analyses, preoperative Lysholm score or Tegner activity levels were used. Results: There was acceptable test-retest reliability for overall Lysholm score (ICC=0.94 [95% confidence interval=0.88 to 0.96]) and Tegner (ICC=0.82 [95% confidence interval=0.66 to 0.89]). The minimum detectable change for Lysholm was 8.9 and for Tegner was 1.4. The Lysholm score demonstrated acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha=0.72). The Lysholm score correlated with IKDC (r=0.78) and the physical function domain of SF-12. ®. (r=0.43). The Tegner scale correlated with physical function domain of SF-12. ®. (r=0.2) and IKDC (r=0.22). Both scores had acceptable floor and ceiling effects, and all hypotheses were significant. The Lysholm score and Tegner scale both had a large overall effect size. There were no differences between isolated and combined ACL injuries. Conclusion: After 25 years of changes in treatment of ACL injuries and postoperative rehabilitation protocols, the Lysholm knee score and Tegner activity scale continue to demonstrate acceptable psychometric parameters. The Lysholm score and Tegner scale both had acceptable test-retest reliability, construct validity, criterion validity, content validity, and responsiveness when patient-administered similar to the physician-administered results when they were originally validated. Our hypothesis was affirmed

Aims. MRI has been suggested as an objective method of assessing anterior crucate ligament (ACL) graft “ligamentization” after reconstruction. It has been proposed that the MRI appearances could be used as an indicator of graft maturity and used as part of a return-to-sport assessment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between MRI graft signal and postoperative functional scores, anterior knee laxity, and patient age at operation. Methods. A consecutive cohort of 149 patients who had undergone semitendinosus autograft ACL reconstruction, using femoral and tibial adjustable loop fixations, were evaluated retrospectively postoperatively at two years. All underwent MRI analysis of the ACL graft, performed using signal-to-noise quotient (SNQ) and the Howell score. Functional outcome scores (Lysholm, Tegner, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective, and IKDC objective) were obtained and all patients underwent instrumented side-to-side anterior laxity differential laxity testing. Results. Two-year postoperative mean outcome scores were: Tegner 6.5 (2 to 10); Lysholm 89.8 (SD 10.4; 52 to 100); and IKDC subjective 86.8 (SD 11.8; 51 to 100). The objective IKDC score was 86% A (128 patients), 13% B (19 patients), and 1% C (two patients). Mean side-to-side anterior laxity difference (134 N force) was 0.6 mm (SD 1.8; -4.1 to 5.6). Mean graft SNQ was 2.0 (SD 3.5; -14 to 17). Graft Howell scores were I (61%, 91 patients), II (25%, 37 patients), III (13%, 19 patients), and IV (1%, two patients). There was no correlation between either Howell score or SNQ with instrumented anterior or Lysholm, Tegner, and IKDC scores, nor was any correlation found between patient age and ACL graft SNQ or Howell score. Conclusion. The two-year postoperative MRI appearances of four-strand, semitendinosus ACL autografts (as measured by SNQ and Howell score) do not appear to have a relationship with postoperative functional scores, instrumented anterior laxity, or patient age at surgery. Other tools for analysis of graft maturity should be developed. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(8):569–575

Aims. The aim of this study was to compare the preinjury functional scores with the postinjury preoperative score and postoperative outcome scores following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery (ACLR). Methods. We performed a prospective study on patients who underwent primary ACLR by a single surgeon at a single centre between October 2010 and January 2018. Preoperative preinjury scores were collected at time of first assessment after the index injury. Preoperative (pre- and post-injury), one-year, and two-year postoperative functional outcomes were assessed by using the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), Lysholm Knee Score, and Tegner Activity Scale. Results. We enrolled 308 males and 263 females of mean age 27 years (19 to 46). The mean preinjury and preoperative post-injury Lysholm Knee Scores were 94 (73 to 100) and 63 (25 to 85), respectively, while the respective mean scores at one and two years postoperatively were 84 (71 to 100) and 89 (71 to 100; p < 0.001). The mean Tegner preinjury and preoperative post-injury scores were 7 (3 to 9) and 3 (0 to 6), respectively, while the respective mean scores at one and two years postoperatively were 6 (1 to 8) and 6 (1 to 9) (p < 0.001). The mean KOOS scores at preinjury versus two years postoperatively were: symptoms (96 vs 84); pain (94 vs 87); activities of daily living (97 vs 91), sports and recreation function (84 vs 71), and quality of life (82 vs 69), respectively (p < 0.001). Conclusion. Functional scores improved following ACLR surgery at two years in comparison to preoperative post-injury scores. However, at two-year follow-up, the majority of patients failed to achieve their preinjury scores. The evaluation of ACLR outcomes needs to consider the preinjury scores rather than the immediate preoperative score that is usually collected. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(1):46–52

Ligament reconstruction following multi-ligamentous knee injuries involves graft fixation in bone tunnels using interference screws (IS) or cortical suspensory systems. Risks of IS fixation include graft laceration, cortical fractures, prominent hardware, and inability to adjust tensioning once secured. Closed loop suspensory (CLS) fixation offers an alternative with fewer graft failures and improved graft-to-tunnel incorporation. However, graft tensioning cannot be modified to accommodate errors in tunnel length evaluation. Adjustable loop suspensory (ALS) devices (i.e., Smith & Nephew Ultrabutton) address these concerns and also offer the ability to sequentially tighten each graft, as needed. However, ALS devices may lead to increased graft displacement compared to CLS devices. Therefore, this study aims to report outcomes in a large clinical cohort of patients using both IS and CLS fixation. A retrospective review of radiographic, clinical, and patient-reported outcomes following ligament reconstruction from a Level 1 trauma centre was completed. Eligible patients were identified via electronic medical records using ICD-10 codes. Inclusion criteria were patients 18 years or older undergoing ACL, PCL, MCL, and/or LCL reconstruction between January 2018 and 2020 using IS and/or CLS fixation, with a minimum of six-month post-operative follow-up. Exclusion criteria were follow-up less than six months, incomplete radiographic imaging, and age less than 18 years. Knee dislocations (KD) were classified using the Schenck Classification. The primary outcome measure was implant removal rate. Secondary outcomes were revision surgery rate, deep infection rate, radiographic fixation failure rate, radiographic malposition, Lysholm and Tegner scores, clinical graft failure, and radiographic graft failure. Radiographic malposition was defined as implants over 5 mm off bone or intraosseous deployment of the suspensory fixation device. Clinical graft failure was defined as a grade II or greater Lachman, posterior drawer, varus opening at 20° of knee flexion, and/or valgus opening at 20° of knee flexion. Radiographic failure was defined when over 5 mm, 3.2 mm, and/or 2.7 mm of side-to-side difference occurred using PCL gravity stress views, valgus stress views, and/or varus stress views, respectively. Descriptive statistics were used. Sixty-three consecutive patients (mean age = 41 years, range = 19-58) were included. A total of 266 CLS fixation with Ultrabuttons and 135 IS were used. Mean follow-up duration was 383 days. Most injuries were KD type II and III. Graft revision surgery rate was 1.5%. Intraosseous deployment occurred in 6.2% and 17% had implants secured in soft tissue, rather than on bone. However, the implant removal rate was only 6.2%. Radiographic PCL gravity stress views demonstrated an average of 1.2 mm of side-to-side difference with 6.2% meeting criteria for radiographic failure. A single patient met radiographic failure criteria for collateral grafts. Mean Lysholm and Tegner scores were 87.3 and 4.4, respectively, with follow-up beyond one year. Both IS and CLS fixation demonstrate an extremely low revision surgery rate, a high rate of implant retention, excellent radiographic stability, and satisfactory patient-reported outcome scores. Incorrect implant deployment was seen in a total of 17% of patients, yet none required implant removal. A single patient required graft revision due to implant failure

Abstract. Introduction. The Syn-VAR RCT is the first of its kind comparing hamstrings autograft v synthetic neoligament for MPFL reconstruction. Our aim is to evaluate short and long term patient related outcomes measures (PROMs) following synthetic / autologous MPFL reconstruction in a heterogenous cohort of patients with recurrent patellar instability. Method. 20 patients meeting inclusion criteria were recruited and randomised. Standardised surgery was performed by a single surgeon in Altnagelvin Hospital with data collected over 3 years from 2016. Kujala score was the primary outcome measure with data captured preoperatively and 12 weeks/2 years postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included four other validated scores and complications including Norwich Patellar Instability, Lysholm, IKDC and Banff. Results. 20 patients with an average age of 19 included 9 females and 11 males. At 12 weeks and 2 years Kujala improvement in the hamstring group was 18 and 32 (both p<0.05) compared to the synthetic group where the increase was 2 and 20 (p<0.05). All secondary score improvements at 2 years were significant (p<0.05) with no difference in any score at all time intervals when comparing both groups (p<0.05). Discussion. Our RCT validates the non-inferiority of synthetic MPFL reconstruction as a treatment for restoring patellar stability in a small heterogenous group with positive long term data and minimal morbidity. With no hamstring harvesting offering a reduction in theatre time with this offers a safe, efficient and viable alternative with reduced morbidity

Abstract. Purpose. Since arthroscopic reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) started, the use of peroneus longus grafts for primary ACL reconstruction (ACLR) was never thought of as there is very scant literature on it. So, our study aims to compare the functional outcome and complications in patients with ACL injury managed by ACLR with peroneus longus tendon (PLT) and hamstring tendons (HT) respectively. Materials and Methods. Patients with 16–50 years of either gender presenting with symptomatic ACL deficiency were admitted for arthroscopic single bundle ACLR and allocated into two groups (PLT and HT) operated and observed. Functional scores (IKDC and Lysholm score), clinical knee evaluation, donor site morbidity (AOFAS score) and thigh circumference were recorded preoperatively and at six months, one year post-operatively. The same post-op rehabilitation protocol was followed in both groups. Results. 194 patients (hamstring n=96, peroneus n=98) met the inclusion criteria. There were no significant differences between the pre-op, six months post-op and one-year postoperative score between the hamstring and peroneus longus groups in the IKDC (p=0.356) and Lysholm knee score (p=0.289). The mean for the AOFAS was 99.05±3.56 and 99.80±0.70 in the PLT and HT group respectively showing no statistical difference, with a significant improvement in thigh muscle wasting among the PLT group at final follow-up (p<0.001). Conclusion. We observed similar knee stability, functional outcome and no obvious donor site morbidity among both groups and recommend that a PL graft may be a safe, effective, and viable option for arthroscopic single bundle ACL reconstruction

Abstract. Background. Recurrent patellar dislocation in combination with cartilage injures are difficult injuries to treat with confounding pathways of treatment. The aim of this study is to compare the clinical and functional outcomes of patients operated for patellofemoral instability with and without cartilage defects. Methods. 82 patients (mean age-28.8 years) with recurrent patellar dislocations, who underwent soft-tissue or bony procedures, were divided into 2 matched groups (age, sex, follow-up and type of procedure) of 41 each based on the presence or absence of cartilage defects in patella. Chondroplasty, microfracture, osteochondral fixation or AMIC-type procedures were done depending on the nature of cartilage injury. Lysholm, Kujala, Tegner and Subjective Knee scores of both groups were compared and analysed. Complications and return to theatre were noted. Results. With a mean follow-up of 8 years (2 years-12.3 years), there was a significant improvement observed in all the mean post-operative Patient Reported Outcome Measures (p<0.05) of both the groups, as compared to the pre-operative scores. Comparing the 2 groups, post-operative Lysholm, Kujala and Subjective knee scores were significantly higher in patients operated without cartilage defects (p<0.05). 3 patients operated for PFJ instability with cartilage defects had to undergo patellofemoral replacement in the long term. Odds ratio for developing complications is 2.6 for patients operated with cartilage defects. Conclusion. Although there is a significant improvement in the long term outcome scores of patients operated for recurrent patellar dislocation with cartilage defects, the results are significantly inferior as compared to those without cartilage defects, along with a higher risk of developing complications and returning to theatre. Declaration of Interest. (b) declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research reported:I declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research project

Introduction. By utilising the inherent variability achievable with circular frames, surgeons can manage a wide spectrum of complex injuries, and can deal with deformity at multiple levels, in multiple planes. The aim of this study was to assess functional outcomes utilising patients reported outcome measures (PROMs) of patients being treated with circular (Ilizarov) frame fixation for complex lower limb injuries and assess these results in conjunction with the observed postoperative alignment of the patients’ limbs. Materials & Methods. Cases were identified using a prospectively collected database of adult patients presenting between July 2018 and August 2021. Functional outcomes were assessed using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS), the 5-level EQ-5D (EQ5D5L), the Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale (LKSS), the Olerud-Molendar Ankle Score (OMAS), and the Tegner Activity Scale (TAS). Postoperative radiographs were analysed for fracture union and to quantify malunion (as described in Dror Paleys Principles of Deformity Correction). Results. The mean AOFAS, EQ5D5L, LKSS and OMAS scores showed an initial drop from pre-op to early time points and then steady increase over the early, mid, late and frame-off time points, with a resultant score higher than pre-op. Malunion was found in 35 (41.7%) patients, 7 patients had a malunion within 5 degrees of normal, 15 from 5–10 degrees of normal, 12 from 10–15 degrees of normal and 2 out with 15 degrees of normal. Conclusions. Circular frame fixation is an attractive option in complex lower limb trauma where alternative fixation methods are unsuitable. Whilst post-operative success to the surgeon might be determined radiographically, patient reported outcomes give a functionally important, objective measure of the success of the surgery to the patient

Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) improves the quality of life of osteoarthritic and rheumatoid arthritis patients, however, is associated with moderate to severe postoperative pain. There are multiple methods of managing postoperative pain that include epidural anesthesia but it prevents early mobilization and results in postoperative hypotension and spinal infection. Controlling local pain pathways through intra-articular administration of analgesics is a novel method and is inexpensive and simple. Hence, we assess the effects of postoperative epidural bupivacaine injection along with intra-articular injection in total knee replacement patients. The methodology included 100 patients undergoing TKA randomly divided into two groups, one administered with only epidural bupivacaine injection and the other with intra-articular cocktail injection. The results were measured based on a 10-point pain assessment scale, knee's range of motion (ROM), and Lysholm knee score. The VAS score was lower in the intra-articular cocktail group compared to the bupivacaine injection group until the end of 1-week post-administration (p<0.01). Among inter-group comparisons, we observed that the range of motion was significantly more in cocktail injection as compared to the bupivacaine group till the end of one week (p<0.05). Lysholm's score was significantly more in cocktail injection as compared to the bupivacaine group till the end of one week (p<0.05). Our study showed that both epidural bupivacaine injection and intra-articular injection were effective in reducing pain after TKA and have a comparable functional outcome at the end of 4 weeks follow up. However, the pain relief was faster in cases with intra-articular injection, providing the opportunity for early rehabilitation. Thus, we recommend the use of intra-articular cocktail injection for postoperative management of pain after total knee arthroplasty, which enables early rehabilitation and faster functional recovery of these patients

Stratification is required to ensure that only those patients likely to benefit, receive Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI); ideally by assessing a biomarker in the blood. This study aimed to assess differences in the plasma proteome of individuals who respond well or poorly to ACI. Isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantitation (ITRAQ) mass spectrometry and label-free proteomics analyses were performed in tandem as described previously by our group (Hulme et al., 2017; 2018; 2021) using plasma collected from ACI responders (n=10) compared with non-responders (n=10) at each stage of surgery (Stage I, cartilage harvest and Stage II, cell implantation). iTRAQ using pooled plasma detected 16 proteins that were differentially abundant at baseline in ACI responders compared with non-responders (n=10) (≥±2.0 fold; p<0.05). Responders demonstrated a mean Lysholm (patient reported functional score from 0–100) improvement of 33±13 and non-responders a mean worsening of −13±13 points. The most pronounced plasma proteome shift was seen in response to Stage I surgery in ACI non-responders, with 48 proteins being differentially abundant between the two surgical procedures. We have previously noted this marked shift in response to initial surgery in the SF of ACI non-responders, several of these proteins were associated with the Acute Phase Response. One of these proteins, clusterin, could be confirmed in patients’ plasma using an independent immunoassay using individual samples. Label-free proteomic data from individual samples identified only cartilage acidic protein-1 (known to associate with osteoarthritis progression) to be significantly more abundant at Stage I in the plasma of non-responders. This study indicates that proteins can be identified within the plasma that have potential use in ACI patient stratification. Further work is required to validate the findings of this discovery-phase work in larger ACI cohorts

Little guidance exists in the current literature regarding which patient recorded outcome measures (PROMs) are most clinically appropriate following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACL) surgery, and what results surgeons should expect or accept. Many PROMs have been validated, but their “ideal” results have not been published, limiting a surgeon's ability to compare their patients’ outcomes with those of their colleagues. We undertook a systematic review of PROMs for ACL to look at common usage and outcomes. After appropriate paper selection, we then undertook a pragmatic meta-analysis (i.e., including all papers that fulfilled the selection criteria, regardless of CONSORT status) and calculated weighted mean outcome scores and standard deviations for the most commonly used PROMs. A comprehensive literature search of all English articles of PubMed and other sources including search terms (‘Patient related outcome measure’ or ‘PROM’) AND ‘anterior cruciate ligament’ (limited to abstract/title) yielded 722 articles. Title review narrowed this to 268, and abstracts review to 151, of which 88 were included in our meta-analysis. Weighted mean and standard deviations were calculated for IKDC, KOOS, Lysholm, Teneger and “VAS Pain” PROMs as the most commonly reported. We identified significant, novel findings relating to selected PROMs and (i) demographics including age, gender and body mass index, (ii) surgical factors including bundle count, strand count, and graft type, and (iii) post operative complications. We clarified the most commonly used PROMs for ACL, and their weighted means and standard deviations. This will allow surgeons to compare results with colleagues, ensuring they meet international levels of quality in PROMs. We have also updated which patient and operative factors have an impact on PROMs scoring to allow for population variance

Background. Recurrent patellar dislocation in combination with cartilage injures are difficult injuries to treat with confounding pathways of treatment. The aim of this study is to compare the clinical and functional outcomes of patients operated for patellofemoral instability with and without cartilage defects. Methods. 82 patients (mean age-28.8 years) with recurrent patellar dislocations, who underwent soft-tissue or bony procedures, were divided into 2 matched groups (age, sex, follow-up and type of procedure) of 41 each based on the presence or absence of cartilage defects in patella. Chondroplasty, microfracture, osteochondral fixation or Autologous Matrix-Induced Chondrogenesis(AMIC)-type procedures were done depending on the nature of cartilage injury. Lysholm, Kujala, Tegner and Subjective Knee scores of both groups were compared and analysed. Complications and return to theatre were noted. Results. With a mean follow-up of 8 years (2 years-12.3 years), there was a significant improvement observed in all the mean post-operative Patient Reported Outcome Measures (p<0.05) of both the groups, as compared to the pre-operative scores. Comparing the 2 groups, post-operative Lysholm, Kujala and Subjective knee scores were significantly higher in patients operated without cartilage defects (p<0.05). 3 patients operated for patellofemoral instability with cartilage defects had to undergo patellofemoral replacement in the long term. Odds ratio for developing complications is 2.6 for patients operated with cartilage defects. Conclusion. Although there is a significant improvement in the long term outcome scores of patients operated for recurrent patellar dislocation with cartilage defects, the results are significantly inferior as compared to those without cartilage defects, along with a higher risk of developing complications and returning to theatre

Introduction. Recurrent patellar dislocation is often reported in bilateral knees in young active individuals. The medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) tear is the attributable cause behind many of them and warrants reconstruction of the ligament to stabilize the patellofemoral joint. Besides, trochleoplasty and Fulkerson's osteotomy are some other procedures that are performed to treat this problem. This study aimed to compare the clinical and functional outcomes in a cohort of patients with single-stage bilateral realignment procedures vs staged procedures. Methods. It was a retrospective matched cohort study with prospectively collected data. A total of 36 patients (mean age-26.9 years, range 13 years to 47 years) with recurrent patellar dislocations, who underwent a surgical correction in both the knees, were divided into two matched groups (age, sex, follow-up, and type of procedure). Among them, 18 patients had surgeries in one knee done at least six months later than the other knee. The remaining 18 patients had surgical interventions for both knees done in a single stage. Lysholm, Kujala, Tegner, and subjective knee scores of both groups were compared and analyzed. The rate of complications and return to the theatre were noted in both groups. Results. With a mean follow-up of 7.3 years (2.0 years to 12.3 years), there was a significant improvement in PROMS observed in both the groups (p<0.05). No significant difference could be found between the two groups in terms of the Lysholm, Kujala, and subjective knee scores (p> 0.05). The rate of complication and the re-operation rate was comparable in both the groups (p>0.05). Conclusion. The outcomes of staged vs simultaneous surgeries for bilateral patellofemoral instability are comparable. Our results indicate that simultaneous bilateral surgical correction is safe. This can potentially be an option to reduce the surgical cost and perioperative morbidity. However, careful selection of cases, choice of the patient, and the scope of rehabilitation facilities are some of the other factors that should be considered

Abstract. Purpose. This study aims to compare the clinical and functional outcomes and donor site morbidity of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with hamstring tendon autograft and peroneus longus tendon autograft in patients with complete anterior cruciate ligament rupture. Methods. Patients who underwent ACL reconstruction from February 2018 to July 2019 were randomly allocated into two groups (hamstring and peroneus longus). Functional scores (IKDC and Lysholm scores) and pain intensity by visual analogue score were recorded preoperatively, 3, 6months, 1, and 2 years postoperatively. Donor site morbidities were assessed with thigh circumference measurements in hamstring group and ankle scoring with the American foot and ankle score in peroneus longus group. Results. Sixty patients (hamstring n = 30, peroneus n = 30) met the inclusion criteria. The functional scores (IKDC and Lysholm) did not show statistical difference among the two groups at two years follow-up (P- value>0.05). The means values for visual analogue score after two years in the hamstring and Peroneus longus group was 1±0.74 and 1.03± 1.06, respectively. In peroneus longus group, the mean foot and ankle score was 98.63±3.88 (range= 85–100). A significant difference was found in the hamstring group between operated and non-operated thigh circumferences with p- value <0.001. Conclusions. Peroneus longus tendon autograft is an easily accessible tendon for ACL reconstruction and gives comparable functional outcomes as hamstring tendon with no additional donor site morbidity in our study

Hamstring grafts have been associated with reduced strength, donor site pain and muscle strains following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction (ACLR). Traditional graft fixation methods required both semitendinosus and gracilis tendons to achieve a graft of sufficient length and diameter, but newer techniques allow for shorter, broad single tendon grafts. This study seeks to compare the outcomes between Single Tendon (ST) and Dual Tendon (DT) ACLR, given there is no prospective randomised controlled trial (RCT) in the literature comparing outcomes between these options. In this ongoing RCT: (ANZ Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN126200000927921) patients were recruited and randomised into either ST or DT groups. All anaesthetic and surgical techniques were uniform aside from graft technique and tibial fixation. 13 patients were excluded at surgery as their ST graft did not achieve a minimum 8mm diameter. 70 patients (34 ST, 36DT) have been assessed at 6 months, using PROMS including IKDC2000, Lysholm and Modified Cincinnati Knee, visual analog scale for pain frequency (VAS-F) and severity (VAS-S), dedicated donor site morbidity score, KT-1000 assessment, and isokinetic strength. Graft diameters were significantly lesser in the ST group compared to the DT group (8.44mm/9.11mm mean difference [MD],-0.67mm; P<0.001). There was a significant and moderate effect in lower donor site morbidity in the ST group compared to the DT group (effect size [ES], 0.649; P = .01). No differences between groups were observed for knee laxity in the ACLR limb (P=0.362) or any of the patient-reported outcome measures (P>0.05). Between-group differences were observed for hamstrings strength LSI favouring the ST group, though these were small-to-moderate and non-significant (ES, 0.351; P = .147). ST (versus DT) harvest results in significantly less donor site morbidity and this is the first prospective RCT to determine this. There were no differences between ST and DT hamstring ACLR were observed in PROMs, knee laxity and hamstring strength. Younger female patients tend to have inadequate single tendon size to produce a graft of sufficient diameter, and alternative techniques should be considered. Further endpoints include radiological analysis, longer term donor site morbidity, revision rates and return to sport and will continue to be presented in the future

Abstract. Introduction. Fractures of the articular surface of the patella or the lateral femoral condyle usually occur following acute dislocation of the patella. This study looked at the radiological and functional outcomes of fixation of osteochondral fractures. Methods. Twenty-nine patients (18 male, 11 female) sustained osteochondral fractures of the knee following patellar dislocation. All patients had detailed radiographic imaging and MRI scan of the knee preoperatively. An arthroscopic assessment was done, followed by fixation using bio-absorbable pins or headless screws either arthroscopically or mini-open arthrotomy. VMO plication or MPFL repair were done if necessary. MRI scan was done at follow-up to assess for healing of the fixed fragment prior to patient discharge. Results. The mean age of the patients was 21 yrs (9–74), 11 had osteochondral fracture of the patella (38%), while 18 were from the lateral femoral condyle (62%). 13 patients needed additional VMO plication. Mean follow up period was 7.7 years (1 to 12 years). As per Tegner activity scale, all patients returned to their pre-injury activity level (Mean score 7) and sports. None of the patients had a further episode of patellar dislocation. Mean postoperative IKDC score was 86.5 (SD 17.3), Kujala was 91.1(SD 15.5) and Tegner- lysholm was 88.7 (SD 14.4). All patients had statistically significant (p < 0.05) improvement. Post-operative MRI scan showed satisfactory union in all cases (100%). Conclusion. It is extremely important to identify this group of injury and treat them early to have satisfactory knee function and avoid long term complications of arthritis

Abstract. Purpose. Stratification is required to ensure that only patients likely to benefit, receive Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI). At Stage I (SI), healthy cartilage is harvested from the joint and chondrocytes culture expanded before being implanted into a chondral/osteochondral defect at Stage II (SII). In ACI non-responders, there is a marked shift in the profile and abundance of proteins detectable in the synovial fluid (SF) at SII, many being associated with an acute phase response (APR). However, clinical biomarkers are easier to measure in blood than SF, so we have now performed this investigation in plasma. Methods. Isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantitation mass-spectrometry was used to assess the proteome in plasma pooled from ACI responders (mean Lysholm improvement of 33, n=10) or non-responders (mean: −13 points, n=10), collected at SI or SII surgeries. Interactome networks were generated using STRING. Plasma proteome data were compared to matched SF data, previously analysed, to identify any proteins that changed across the fluids. Clusterin concentration was quantitated (ELISA; Biotechne). Results. The most pronounced plasma proteome shift was seen in response to SI surgery in ACI non-responders (50 proteins; ±2.0FC; p<0.05). An interactome network was generated based on these proteins. Functions associated with this network included complement and coagulation cascade (FDR= 5.99×10-. 25. ). Sixteen matched proteins were differentially abundant between SI and SII in both the SF and plasma, 75% of which were APR associated proteins. These included clusterin, which was confirmed by ELISA (p=0.001). Conclusions. Changes in APR signalling between SI and SII surgeries in non-responders to ACI can be identified in plasma and SF. The APR is the body's first systemic response to trauma and surgery. Our data indicate that ACI non-responders may have a greater innate response to initial surgery, which is detectable in both their SF and plasma

Abstract. Objectives. Identifying risk factors for inferior outcomes after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is important for prognosis and patient information. This study aimed to ascertain if BMI, pre-operative scores, demographic data and concomitant injuries in patients undergoing ACLR affected patient-reported functional outcomes. Methods. A prospective review collected data from a single surgeon series of 278 patients who underwent arthroscopic ACLR. BMI, age, gender, graft choice, pre-op Lysholm score, meniscal and chondral injuries were recorded. The Lysholm score, hop test and KT1000 were used to measure post-op functional outcome at one year. Multiple regression analysis was used to determine factors that predicted Lysholm scores at one year. Results. The mean age was 29 years, with 58 female and 220 male patients. The mean pre-op Lysholm score was 53.8. One hunded and seventy-nine patients had meniscal injuries, of which 81 were medial, 60 lateral, and 38 bilateral. Eighteen patients also had chondral injury and 106 patients had no other associated injury. Age, gender, graft type and presence of meniscal or chondral injuries did not affect one-year post-operative Lysholm scores. A BMI greater than 30, physio compliance and preoperative Lysholm scores helped predict one-year post-operative Lysholm scores (p=0.02). Pearson's correlation found a direct link between BMI and post-operative Lysholm (p=0.03). Conclusions. BMI, physio compliance and pre-operative Lysholm scores are the most significant determinants of short-term functional outcome after ACLR. However, the effects of associated injuries may be apparent in the long-term as degenerative changes set in or the continued detriment resulting from the concomitant injury affect outcome. Declaration of Interest. (b) declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research reported:I declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research project

Abstract. Objectives. The ability to predict which patients will improve following routine surgeries aimed at preventing the progression of osteoarthritis is needed to aid patients being stratified to receive the most appropriate treatment. This study aimed to investigate the potential of a panel of biomarkers for predicting (prior to treatment) the clinical outcome following treatment with microfracture or osteotomy. Methods. Proteins known to relate to OA severity, with predictive value in autologous cell implantation treatment or that had been identified in proteomic analyses (aggrecanase-1/ ADAMTS-4, cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), hyaluronic acid (HA), Lymphatic Vessel Endothelial Hyaluronan Receptor-1, matrix metalloproteinases-1 and −3, soluble CD14, S100 calcium binding protein A13 and 14-3-3 protein theta) were assessed in the synovial fluid (SF) of 19 and 13 patients prior to microfracture or osteotomy, respectively, using commercial immunoassays. Levels of COMP and HA were measured in the plasma of these patients. To find predictors of postoperative function, multiple linear regression analyses were performed. Results. Linear regression analyses demonstrated that a lower concentration of HA in pre-operative SF was predictive of improved knee function (higher Lysholm score) following microfracture surgery. Further, lower pre-operative activity of ADAMTS-4 in SF was a significant, independent predictor of higher post-operative Lysholm score (improved joint function) following osteotomy surgery. Conclusion. This study is novel in identifying biomarkers with the potential to predict clinical outcome in patients treated with microfracture or osteotomy of the knee. Lower concentrations of HA and undetectable activity of ADAMTS-4 in the joint fluid of individuals with cartilage defects/early-OA may be used in algorithms to stratify patients to the most appropriate surgery. Declaration of Interest. (b) declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research reported:I declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research project