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Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 5, Issue 1 | Pages 11 - 17
1 Jan 2016
Barlow JD Morrey ME Hartzler RU Arsoy D Riester S van Wijnen AJ Morrey BF Sanchez-Sotelo J Abdel MP

Aims. Animal models have been developed that allow simulation of post-traumatic joint contracture. One such model involves contracture-forming surgery followed by surgical capsular release. This model allows testing of antifibrotic agents, such as rosiglitazone. Methods. A total of 20 rabbits underwent contracture-forming surgery. Eight weeks later, the animals underwent a surgical capsular release. Ten animals received rosiglitazone (intramuscular initially, then orally). The animals were sacrificed following 16 weeks of free cage mobilisation. The joints were tested biomechanically, and the posterior capsule was assessed histologically and via genetic microarray analysis. Results. There was no significant difference in post-traumatic contracture between the rosiglitazone and control groups (33° (standard deviation (. sd. ) 11) vs 37° (. sd. 14), respectively; p = 0.4). There was no difference in number or percentage of myofibroblasts. Importantly, there were ten genes and 17 pathways that were significantly modulated by rosiglitazone in the posterior capsule. Discussion. Rosiglitazone significantly altered the genetic expression of the posterior capsular tissue in a rabbit model, with ten genes and 17 pathways demonstrating significant modulation. However, there was no significant effect on biomechanical or histological properties. Cite this article: M. P. Abdel. Effectiveness of rosiglitazone in reducing flexion contracture in a rabbit model of arthrofibrosis with surgical capsular release: A biomechanical, histological, and genetic analysis. Bone Joint Res 2016;5:11–17. doi: 10.1302/2046-3758.51.2000593


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 11, Issue 1 | Pages 32 - 39
27 Jan 2022
Trousdale WH Limberg AK Reina N Salib CG Thaler R Dudakovic A Berry DJ Morrey ME Sanchez-Sotelo J van Wijnen A Abdel MP

Aims. Outcomes of current operative treatments for arthrofibrosis after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are not consistently positive or predictable. Pharmacological in vivo studies have focused mostly on prevention of arthrofibrosis. This study used a rabbit model to evaluate intra-articular (IA) effects of celecoxib in treating contracted knees alone, or in combination with capsular release. Methods. A total of 24 rabbits underwent contracture-forming surgery with knee immobilization followed by remobilization surgery at eight weeks. At remobilization, one cohort underwent capsular release (n = 12), while the other cohort did not (n = 12). Both groups were divided into two subcohorts (n = 6 each) – one receiving IA injections of celecoxib, and the other receiving injections of vehicle solution (injections every day for two weeks after remobilization). Passive extension angle (PEA) was assessed in live rabbits at 10, 16, and 24 weeks, and disarticulated limbs were analyzed for capsular stiffness at 24 weeks. Results. IA celecoxib resulted in greater mean PEA at ten weeks (69.6° (SD 4.6) vs 45.2° (SD 9.6), p = 0.004), 16 weeks (109.8° (SD 24.2) vs 60.9° (SD10.9), p = 0.004), and 24 weeks (101.0° (SD 8.0) vs 66.3° (SD 5.8), p = 0.004). Capsular stiffness was significantly reduced with IA celecoxib (2.72 Newton per cm (N·cm)/° (SD 1.04), p = 0.008), capsular release (2.41 N·cm/° (SD 0.80), p = 0.008), and capsular release combined with IA celecoxib (3.56 N·cm/° (SD 0.99), p = 0.018) relative to IA vehicle (6.09 N·cm/° (SD 1.64)). Conclusion. IA injections of a celecoxib led to significant improvements in passive extension angles, with reduced capsular stiffness, when administered to rabbit knees with established experimental contracture. Celecoxib was superior to surgical release, and the combination of celecoxib and a surgical release did not provide any additional value. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2022;11(1):32–39


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 96-B, Issue SUPP_19 | Pages 44 - 44
1 Dec 2014
Dachs R Marais C Du Plessis J Vrettos B Roche S
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Aim:. To investigate the clinical outcomes of elbows with post-traumatic stiffness treated by open surgical release. Methods:. A retrospective review was completed on thirty-five consecutively managed patients who underwent an open elbow release for post-traumatic stiffness between 2007 and 2012. Pre-operative and post-operative range of motion (ROM), pain scores and functional outcomes were recorded. Results:. Mean follow-up was 31 months (6–84). The cohort consisted of 20 male and 15 female patients with an average age at time of surgery of 34 years (17–59). The interval from injury to time of release was 26 months (6–180). An improvement in mean ROM from 49° (0°–105°) to 102° (55°–150°) was obtained. The improvement in ROM in patients with pre-operative heterotopic bone was 61° compared to 45° in patients without heterotopic bone. The mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score improved from 44 pre-operatively to 82 at most recent follow-up. Mean VAS scores improved from 5.9 pre-operatively to 2.8 at most recent follow-up. Patients rated the affected elbow a mean of 73% as compared to the contralateral/normal side (50–100%). Apart from a 10% incidence of transient ulnar nerve neurapraxia in patients who had a medial or combined approach, complication rates and functional outcomes were comparable between medial, lateral and combined approaches. Conclusion:. Open release for post-traumatic elbow stiffness results in satisfactory functional outcomes in the majority of cases, with no significant differences between medial, lateral or combined approaches


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 91-B, Issue SUPP_I | Pages 81 - 81
1 Mar 2009
Psychoyios V Dakis K Villanueva-Lopez F Kefalas A
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Aim: Postraumatic elbow stiffness is a common condition after elbow trauma. Sometimes it is a quite disabling symptom not responding to conservative measures. We present the surgical treatment of such cases of posttraumatic elbow stiffness. Material: Twenty three patients, fourteen male and nine female with an average age of 34 yrs, underwent a surgical treatment of their stiff elbow. The average preoperative range of motion regarding elbow flexion-extension was 65° and the average rotational movement was 123°. All patients had received a resection of the anterior capsule, release or resection of posterior elements, removal of loose bodies and resection of osseous beaks if it was necessary. Two patients received a triceps lengthening. The results evaluated with the Mayo Elbow Performance Score. Results: The average follow up was twenty nine months. All the patients were available for clinical assessment. There was an improvement of the average ROM to 115°, regarding flexion extension and to 164° regarding supination pronn. Postoperatively a dynamic elbow splint was used in twenty patients and a hinged external fixator in the remaining patients. Revision elbow release was performed in three patients and in one patient the elbow stiffness was deteriorated. Sixteen patients had an excellent or good result, and seven had a fair or poor one. Conclusion: Elbow stiffness is an extremely disabling condition causing a functional impairment. Surgical elbow release is quite reliable, and relatively safe procedure given the fact that the patient follows strictly the rehabilitation protocol


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 92-B, Issue SUPP_IV | Pages 595 - 596
1 Oct 2010
Karski J Gregosiewicz A Kalakucki J Kandzierski G Karski T Matuszewski L
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Introduction: When we have operate children’s knee in habitual luxation of the patella we noted, that iliotibial band have branch going to patella and to patella tendon. It is important to the etiopathology of the patella luxation, but in valgus of the knee and in hyperpresion of the patella syndrome too. Material and Method: In years 2000–2007 we have performed surgical iliotibial band release In 70 children, 28 boys and 42 girls. In 19 children contracture of the iliotibial band were one-sided, in 51 children contracture were both-sided. Patients were divided in to groups with various pre-operative symptoms:. valgus of the knee – 40 patients (74 legs),. valgus of the knee with subluxation of the patella in extension of the knee – 18 (31 legs),. valgus of the knee with hyperpression of patella syndrome – 11 (15 legs),. pathological knee valgity 1 (1 leg). In all cases we performed surgically release of the iliotibial band. The incision was 5–10 cm over the joint space on the lateral side of the femur. The fasciotomy of the fascia lata and iliotibial band we make in “Z” shape. During operation we flex and extend the knee to be sure all fibres are released. Findings: We have check late result (3 – 36 month postoperatively) in 45 patients (77 legs). We estimate:. 27 patients from group of valgus deformity of the knee. 14 patients from group of valgus of the knee with subluxation of the patella. 3 patients with group of valgus of the knee with hyperpression of patella syndrome. 1 patient with pathological knee valgity. The valgus angle preoperatively reaches 12 to 35 (on average 16 for right leg and 16,5 for left). Postoperatively angle improve in all patients. Knee angle change from 5 to 20 degree (on average 8,4 for Wright leg, 8,3 for left). In group with patella subluxation we have check 23 legs. In 11 patents (18 legs) the angle improve. The 3 patients (5 leg) later has full reconstruction of patello-femoral joint with patella tendon transposition. In patient with post inflammatory deformation the angle improve from 15 to 7 degree, but after next 34 month reaches again 20 degree and patient had osteotomy of the femur. Conclusions:. iliotibial band release show us good result in correction the axis of the knee, first even during operation. After iliotibial band release is possible to move patella passive to medial side of the knee. Late result show us good effect in group of valgus of the knee deformity and in group with hyperpression of the patella syndrome. In group of subluxation of the patella effectivity of this method is 78%. We believe that surgical release of iliotibial band is easy and effective method of knee valgus correction in idiopathic valgity or in patella subluxation and in hyperpression of the patella syndrome


Bone & Joint Open
Vol. 5, Issue 9 | Pages 736 - 741
4 Sep 2024
Farr S Mataric T Kroyer B Barik S

Aims. The paediatric trigger thumb is a distinct clinical entity with unique anatomical abnormalities. The aim of this study was to present the long-term outcomes of A1 pulley release in idiopathic paediatric trigger thumbs based on established patient-reported outcome measures. Methods. This study was a cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study conducted at a tertiary care orthopaedic centre. All cases of idiopathic paediatric trigger thumbs which underwent A1 pulley release between 2004 and 2011 and had a minimum follow-up period of ten years were included in the study. The abbreviated version of the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (QuickDASH) was administered as an online survey, and ipsi- and contralateral thumb motion was assessed. Results. A total of 67 patients completed the survey, of whom 63 (94%) had full interphalangeal joint extension or hyperextension. Severe metacarpophalangeal joint hyperextension (> 40°) was documented in 15 cases (22%). The median QuickDASH score was 0 (0 to 61), indicating excellent function at a median follow-up of 15 years (10 to 19). Overall satisfaction was high, with 56 patients (84%) reporting the maximal satisfaction score of 5. Among 37 patients who underwent surgery at age ≤ two years, 34 (92%) reported the largest satisfaction, whereas this was the case for 22 of 30 patients (73%) with surgery at aged > two years (p = 0.053). Notta’s nodule resolved in 49 patients (73%) at final follow-up. No residual triggering or revision surgery was observed. Conclusion. Surgical release of A1 pulley in paediatric trigger thumb is an acceptable procedure with excellent functional long-term outcomes. There was a trend towards higher satisfaction with earlier surgery among the patients. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(9):736–741


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 105-B, Issue SUPP_10 | Pages 44 - 44
1 Jun 2023
Fossett E Ibrahim A Tan JK Afsharpad A
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Introduction. Snapping hip syndrome is a common condition affecting 10% of the population. It is due to the advance of the iliotibial band (ITB) over the greater trochanter during lower limb movements and often associated with hip overuse, such as in athletic activities. Management is commonly conservative with physiotherapy or can be surgical to release the ITB. Here we carry out a systematic review into published surgical management and present a case report on an overlooked cause of paediatric snapping hip syndrome. Materials & Methods. A systematic review looking at published surgical management of snapping hip was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and the Cochrane Library databases were searched for “((Snapping hip OR Iliotibial band syndrome OR ITB syndrome) AND (Management OR treatment))”. Adult and paediatric published studies were included as few results were found on paediatric snapping hip alone. Results. 1548 studies were screened by 2 independent reviewers. 8 studies were included with a total of 134 cases, with an age range of 14–71 years. Surgical management ranged from arthroscopic, open or ultrasound guided release of the ITB, as well as gluteal muscle releases. Common outcome measures showed statistically significant improvement pre- and post-operatively in visual analogue pain score (VAPS) and the Harris Hip Score (HHS). VAPS improved from an average of 6.77 to 0.3 (t-test p value <0.0001) and the HHS improved from an average of 62.6 to 89.4 (t-test p value <0.0001). Conclusions. Although good surgical outcomes have been reported, no study has reported on the effect of rotational profile of the lower limbs and snapping hip syndrome. We present the case of a 13-year-old female with snapping hip syndrome and trochanteric pain. Ultrasound confirmed external snapping hip with normal soft tissue morphology and radiographs confirmed no structural abnormalities. Following extensive physiotherapy and little improvement, she presented again aged 17 with concurrent anterior knee pain, patella mal-tracking and an asymmetrical out-toeing gait. CT rotational profile showed 2° of femoral neck retroversion and excessive external tibial torsion of 52°. Consequently, during her gait cycle, in order to correct her increased foot progression angle, the hip has to internally rotate approximately 35–40°, putting the greater trochanter in an anterolateral position in stance phase. This causes the ITB to snap over her abnormally positioned greater trochanter. Therefore, to correct rotational limb alignment, a proximal tibial de-rotation osteotomy was performed with 25° internal rotation correction. Post-operatively the patient recovered well, HHS score improved from 52.5 to 93.75 and her snapping hip has resolved. This study highlights the importance of relevant assessment and investigation of lower limb rotational profile when exploring causes of external snapping hip, especially where ultrasound and radiographs show no significant pathology


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 87-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 273 - 273
1 Sep 2005
Metaizeau J
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Since 1987, we have treated 37 clubfeet with a continuous passive movement (CPM) machine rather than by surgical release. After 6 months of physiotherapy and splintage, all feet still exhibited equinus and varus deformities. CPM treatment improved equinus and varus in all cases and in 33 feet there was no need for surgery. However, there was progressive impairment: at 15-year follow-up, the results in six feet remained good, with some dorsiflexion possible, but recurrence of the equinus deformity in the other feet had necessitated surgical release, performed when patients were 2 to 10 years old. CPM treatment can eliminate the need for surgery in mild clubfeet, and delay surgery in more severe cases. Performing a surgical release after 3 years will perhaps reduce the rate of recurrence of the deformity


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 94-B, Issue SUPP_XXXIV | Pages 1 - 1
1 Jul 2012
Nesbitt P Jamil W Jesudason P Muir L
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Trigger finger is one of the most common problems presenting to hand clinics in the UK. Traumatic and compressive forces created through digital movement leads to thickening of the flexor tendon sheath. The most successful methods used to treat trigger finger are corticosteroid injection and surgical release. The ring, thumb and middle finger are the most frequently affected digits. The incidence of multiple digits being affected is between 20% and 24%, with a higher incidence in Diabetes Mellitus sufferers. We report a case of failed injection therapy in a patient with multiple trigger digits, review the literature and advocate the use of surgical release as a first line treatment option in those patients with multiply involved digits


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 100-B, Issue SUPP_16 | Pages 126 - 126
1 Nov 2018
De Vulder N Burssens A Cambré I Venken K Bongaerts W Burssens P Elewaut D
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Achilles tendinopathy is classically defined as a tendinosis devoid of an inflammatory cell population. However, recent literature suggests inflammation as a mediator in the pathogenesis. These finding were mainly based on semi-quantative immunohistochemistry. We therefore used flow cytometry to obatain a more accurate identification and quantification of the different cell types involved. Thirty-two samples were obtained from twelve patients with chronic tendinopathic lesions undergoing Achilles tendon surgery. Samples obtained from three patients with hemiplegia requiring surgical release due to spastic Achilles tendons served as control. We used two panels to identify the myeloid and lymphoid population targeting the following markers: CD45, CD3, CD8, CD4, CD19, CD11b, CD56, CD14, CD16, Vα7.2, 6b11, CD161, TCRγδ. To assess the presence of fibroblasts CD90 was targeted. The mean count of CD45+ hematopoietic cells in the tendinopathic samples was significantly higher than in the control samples, respectively 13.27% and 3.24% of the total cell count (P<0.001). The mean fraction of CD3+ cells present in the complete cell population was significantly higher in pathological samples than in control samples, respectively 1.70% and 0.37% (P<0.05). Presence of CD19+ B cells was not reported. The mean fraction of γδ T cells was significantly higher in tendinopathic samples compared to blood samples of the same patient and consisted of 12.9% and 5.8% γδ T cells respectively (P<0.05). These findings support an inflammatory cell infiltration in midportion Achilles tendinopathy that show similarities to enthesitis in SpA. This implies a potential target to investigate in novel treatment modalities


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 13, Issue 7 | Pages 321 - 331
3 Jul 2024
Naito T Yamanaka Y Tokuda K Sato N Tajima T Tsukamoto M Suzuki H Kawasaki M Nakamura E Sakai A

Aims

The antidiabetic agent metformin inhibits fibrosis in various organs. This study aims to elucidate the effects of hyperglycaemia and metformin on knee joint capsule fibrosis in mice.

Methods

Eight-week-old wild-type (WT) and type 2 diabetic (db/db) mice were divided into four groups without or with metformin treatment (WT met(-/+), Db met(-/+)). Mice received daily intraperitoneal administration of metformin and were killed at 12 and 14 weeks of age. Fibrosis morphology and its related genes and proteins were evaluated. Fibroblasts were extracted from the capsules of 14-week-old mice, and the expression of fibrosis-related genes in response to glucose and metformin was evaluated in vitro.


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 95-B, Issue SUPP_1 | Pages 46 - 46
1 Jan 2013
Akrawi H Elkhouly A Allgar V Der Tavitian J Shaw C
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Introduction. Tennis and Golfers elbows (TE, GE) are difficult conditions to treat. Ultrasound guided steroid injection (UGSI) is one of the treatment modalities in treating refractory TE and GE. We present our clinical experience and short to mid-term results of patients with TE and GE treated with UGSI. Methods. Patients with persistent TE and GE treated with UGSI (Marcaine and kenalog) at a tertiary centre between 2007 and 2010 were retrospectively reviewed. Mean follow up was 4 months (Range 2–21 months). Patients were assessed for pain relief, recurrence of symptoms and surgical release. Results. USGI was performed on 181 elbows (144 patients). There were 68 male and 76 female patients. Mean age 49.5 years (range 17–82). At the time of UGSI, chronic features of TE were established in 144 elbows and signs of GE were identified in 37 elbows. At the review clinic, 155 (86%) elbows were reported to be completely pain free, 10 (5%) elbows experienced no improvement and 16 (9%) elbows encountered residual symptoms. However, a total of 98 (54%) elbows experienced recurrence of symptoms. For TE, symptoms recurred in 74/144 (51%) elbows at a mean interval of 5.8 months (95% CI: 4.6 to 6.9 months). For GE, symptoms recurred in 24/37 (64%) elbows at a mean interval of 4.2 months (95% CI: 3.4 to 5.0 months). Repeat USGI was performed in 24 elbows, of which 20 elbows were associated with further recurrence. Fifty seven (50%) elbows underwent surgical release (45 TE and 12 GE). Discussion. USGI appears to be a beneficial short term measure in controlling the symptoms of TE and GE. However, recurrence or failure to improve occurred in 68% of elbows. Repeat USGI is associated with high failure rate (83%) and surgical option should be explored in these refractory conditions


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 100-B, Issue SUPP_3 | Pages 82 - 82
1 Apr 2018
Soufi M Hastie G Wilson J Roy B
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Introduction. Lateral epicondylitis, also known as “tennis elbow,” is a degenerative disorder of the common extensor origin of the lateral humeral epicondyle. The mainstay of treatment is non-operative and includes physiotherapy, activity modification, bracing, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and injections. There is a subgroup of patients however who do not respond to non-operative measures and require operative intervention. Methods. We conducted a retrospective review of prospectively collected data to assess whether the introduction of PRP injections for lateral epicondylitis led to a reduction in patients subsequently undergoing surgical release. Results. Prior to the introduction of PRP injections, a mean of 12.75 patients a year underwent arthroscopic release for tennis elbow. Since PRP introduction this reduced to a mean of 4.25 patients a year. Using a Pearsons chi squared test this is a significant fall in the number of releases required, P<0.001. This significant reduction in patients requiring surgery since PRP introduction leads to an absolute risk reduction of 0.773 and number needed to treat on “as-treated” basis of only 1.3. Conclusion. In conclusion we consider PRP injection, for intractable lateral epicondylitis of the elbow, not only a safe but also very effective tool in reducing symptoms and have shown it has reduced the need for surgical intervention in this difficult cohort of patients


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 90-B, Issue SUPP_II | Pages 212 - 212
1 Jul 2008
Tryfonidis M Jass GK Charalambous CP Jacob S Stanley D
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A significant number of patients return with persistent symptoms following surgical release of the posterior interosseous nerve for radial tunnel syndrome. The aim of this study was to attempt to explain this fact in anatomical terms by defining the anatomy of the posterior interosseous nerve and its branches in relation to the supinator muscle and arcade of Frohse. Using standard dissection tools 20 preserved cadaveric upper limbs were dissected. The radial nerve and all its branches within the radial tunnel were exposed and a digital calliper was used to measure distances. The bifurcation of the radial nerve to posterior interosseous nerve and superficial sensory branch occurred at a median distance of 4.35mm proximal to the elbow joint-line. The bifurcation was proximal to the joint-line in 11 cases, at the level of the joint-line in one case and distal in eight cases. There was a range of 0–5 branches to the supinator originating proximal to the entry point of the posterior interosseous nerve under the arcade of Frohse at a median distance of 10.27mm (medial branches) or 11.11mm (lateral branches) distal to the elbow join-line. These branches either passed under the arcade of Frohse or entered through the proximal edge of the superficial belly of the supinator. In 10 limbs there was a variable number of branches to the supinator originating under its superficial belly and in five limbs multiple perforating posterior interosseous nerve branches within the muscle were identified. This variation in anatomy we believe may explain the persistence of symptoms following surgical release of the posterior interosseous nerve for radial tunnel syndrome and suggests that careful exploration of all the nerve branches during surgical decompression should be routinely performed


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 90-B, Issue SUPP_II | Pages 211 - 211
1 Jul 2008
Brinsden MMD Rees MJL CarrNuffield AJ
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We present a single-surgeon series of surgical release of post-traumatic flexion contracture of the elbow performed via a limited lateral approach. We undertook a retrospective review of patients having surgery for established post-traumatic flexion deformity of the elbow. All patients underwent anterior capsulectomy via a limited lateral approach. Patients with an intrinsic contracture also had the intra-articular lesion addressed at the time of surgery. Short-term follow-up was available from clinical review until discharge. Medium-to-longterm follow-up was conducted by telephone interview supplemented by clinical review in selected cases. Between 1998 and 2004, 23 patients were treated surgically for established flexion contracture of the elbow. There were 15 males and 8 females with a median age of 35yrs (range 16–52yrs). In sixteen patients the contracture was not associated with damage to the joint surface (extrinsic) and in seven it was (intrinsic). The mean pre-operative deformity was 55 degrees (95%CI 49 “ 61) which was corrected at the time of surgery to 18 degrees (95%CI 12 “ 23). The mean residual deformity was 25 degrees (95%CI 20 “ 31). The difference between the pre-operative and discharge deformities was significant (Wilcoxson test p< 0.001). In the extrinsic group the mean deformity at discharge was 21 degrees (95%CI 17 “ 25) compared to 34 degrees (95%CI 19 “ 49) in the intrinsic group “ this difference was significant (Mann-Whitney U test p< 0.01). In those patients with an extrinsic contracture all elbows had a return of functional extension. One patient suffered a post-operative complication with transient dysaesthesia in the distribution of the ulnar nerve which resolved after six weeks. Surgical release of post-traumatic flexion contracture of the elbow via a limited lateral approach is a safe, reliable technique with the best results achieved in patients with an isolated extrinsic contracture


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 88-B, Issue SUPP_II | Pages 266 - 266
1 May 2006
Brinsden MMD Rees MJL Carr PAJ
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We present a single-surgeon series of surgical release of post-traumatic flexion contracture of the elbow performed via a limited lateral approach. We undertook a retrospective review of patients having surgery for established post-traumatic flexion deformity of the elbow. All patients underwent anterior capsulectomy via a limited lateral approach. Patients with an intrinsic contracture also had the intra-articular lesion addressed at the time of surgery. Short-term follow-up was available from clinical review until discharge. Medium-to-long term follow-up was conducted by telephone interview supplemented by clinical review in selected cases. Between 1998 and 2004, 23 patients were treated surgically for established flexion contracture of the elbow. There were 15 males and 8 females with a median age of 35 yrs (range 16–52 yrs). In sixteen patients the contracture was not associated with damage to the joint surface (extrinsic) and in seven it was (intrinsic). The mean pre-operative deformity was 55 degrees (95%CI 49 – 61) which was corrected at the time of surgery to 18 degrees (95%CI 12 – 23). The mean residual deformity was 25 degrees (95%CI 20 – 31). The difference between the pre-operative and discharge deformities was significant (Wilcoxson test p< 0.001). In the extrinsic group the mean deformity at discharge was 21 degrees (95%CI 17 – 25) compared to 34 degrees (95%CI 19 – 49) in the intrinsic group – this difference was significant (Mann-Whitney U test p< 0.01). In those patients with an extrinsic contracture all elbows had a return of functional extension. One patient suffered a post-operative complication with transient dysaesthesia in the distribution of the ulnar nerve which resolved after six weeks. Surgical release of post-traumatic flexion contracture of the elbow via a limited lateral approach is a safe, reliable technique with the best results achieved in patients with an isolated extrinsic contracture


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 98-B, Issue SUPP_18 | Pages 5 - 5
1 Nov 2016
Mcmillan T Neilly D Gardner T Cairns D Kumar K Barker S
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Lateral Epicondylitis is a common condition caused by angiofibroblastic hyperplasia of the tendinous insertion. Its treatment is varied and includes rest, physiotherapy, corticosteroid injection and surgical release. Of late, the role of Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections have been explored, with positive results. We prospectively assessed the outcomes of lateral epicondylitis treated with PRP injections and compared the outcomes of ultrasound guided and ‘blind’ injection. This was a single centre prospective cohort study. Patient were assessed with the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) Score. PRP was injected into and around the common extensor origin either with or without ultrasound guidance. The primary outcome measure was DASH score at 3 months. 45 (23F:22M) patients were recruited. The mean age was 50 years (range 35 to 79). The mean duration of follow-up was 106 days. The average pre-injection DASH score for both groups combined was 45.5 (11.7–87.5). The mean DASH score at 3 months follow-up was 27.7. The ultrasound guided injection group had a mean improvement in DASH score from 45.5 to 31.2. The “blind” injection group had a mean improvement in DASH from 44.4 to 27.7. No complications were noted. There was no statistically significant difference in improvement in DASH score between the two groups. Our study provides further evidence to support of the use of PRP injections in the treatment of epicondylitis of the elbow. Interestingly, however, we found that the use of Ultrasound guidance does not appear to improve patient outcomes


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 90-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 512 - 512
1 Aug 2008
Bor N Yusef A
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Introduction: Idiopathic congenital talipes equinovarus (clubfoot) is a common complex deformity that occurs in approximately one or two per 1000 newborns. For many years, most surgeons considered it as a “surgical disease”. The long term results of the surgical release are disappointing, with increased foot pain, joints stiffness and muscle weakness. It would appear that the most successful conservative treatment for clubfoot is the method developed in the late 1940s by Ponseti. We recently reviewed the outcomes of treatment in Afula with the Ponseti method in our first 28 patients with minimum of five years follow-up. Materials and Methods: In our study are included 28 patients (38 feet). 22 males and six females, 18 unilateral and ten bilateral cases, with idiopathic clubfoot. The average follow-up duration is of 6.5 years (range 5–8.5). The cases were evaluated using the 6-point clssfication system described by Pirani. Each foot was assigned a total score of 6 points or less, with higher scores indicating more severe deformity, 0 points indicate a normal foot. Results: The average Pirani score at initial presentation was 5.5 (range 3–6). Only two feet out of 38 (7%), required complete surgical release, using the Turco method. The average number of casts applied was 7.5 (range, 5–13), and 35 of 38 (92%) feet required percutaneous Achilles tenotomy. We used the Garceau classification to assess residual deformity. The average scoring was 3.6 points (range 2–4). Twelve feet out of 36 (33%) (excluding the 2 feet who underwent PMR), ended up with some residual supination, according to the Garceau classification, 11 feet rated 3 points each, and only one foot 2 points. Only12 patients were defined as compliant with the use of the foot abduction brace. In seven out of 36 feet (18% of the feet, six patients) tibialis anterior transfer for residual supination was performed, only one of these patients was compliant with the use of the foot abduction brace. However, despite bad compliance with the use of the orthosis, eight out of 16 patients obtained good results. An average of 13 degrees (range. 0–25) of dorsiflexion and 50 degrees (40–70) of plantarflexion was noticed in all 36 feet (again excluded the 2 post PMR feet), and very supple subtalar joints. Conclusion: thirty-seven out of the 38 feet, at the latest follow-up, had an almost normal foot appearance. Discussion: During the last nine years, the Ponseti technique has become the gold standard of treatment for clubfoot, with countless surgeons abandoning the surgical technique in favor of the Ponseti method. Proper use of the foot abduction brace is essential. Those patients who underwent tibials anterior transfer, were non-compliant with the use of the brace. One of our patients whose parents refused to use the orthosis at all required complete open release with the Turco method. Few patients may end up with good result despite bad comliance with the use of the brace. Since this is unpredictable, parents should be recommended to be fully commited as to the use of the brace


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 99-B, Issue SUPP_3 | Pages 35 - 35
1 Feb 2017
Bas M Rodriguez J Robinson J Deyer T Cooper J Hepinstall M Ranawat A
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Introduction. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a common operation. Different operative approaches have specific benefits and compromises. Soft tissue injury occurs in total hip arthroplasty. This prospective study objectively measured muscle volume changes after direct anterior and posterior approach surgeries. Methods. Patients undergoing Direct Anterior Approach (DAA) and Posterior Approach (PA) THA were prospectively evaluated. 3 orthopaedic surgeons performed all surgeries. Muscle volumes of all major muscles around the hip were objectively measured using preoperative and 2 different postoperative follow-up MRIs. 2 independent measurers performed all radiographic volume measurements. Repeated-measures ANOVA was used to compare mean muscle volume changes over time. Student's t-test was used to compare muscle volumes between groups at specific time intervals. Results. MRIs for 10 DAA and 9 PA patients were analyzed. No significant differences between groups were found in BMI or Age. Pre-operative muscle volume comparisons showed no significant differences. Average postoperative follow-up times were 9.6 and 24.3 weeks. First follow-up showed significant atrophy for the DAA in Gluteus Medius (−7.3%), Gluteus Minimus (−17.5%), and Obturator Internus (−37.3%) muscles. Final follow-up showed significant recovery in Gluteus Medius (+12%) and Minimus (+11.1%) muscles. In the PA, atrophy was significant at first follow-up for Gluteus Minimus (−11.8%), Obturator Internus (−46.8%) and Externus (−16%), Piriformis (−26.5%), and Quadratus Femoris (−30.4%) muscles. Recovery was not seen in any of the significantly atrophied muscles. Muscles with significant quantified fatty atrophy at final follow-up were Obturator Internus [+5.51% (DAA); +7.65% (PA)] and Obturator Externus [+5.55% (PA)]. 3/9 PA patients demonstrated abductor tendinosis, while no DAA patients demonstrated tendinosis. Discussion. Significant atrophy for each group was seen more commonly in the anatomic regions disturbed by each approach respectively. In both approaches, muscles surgically released from their insertion showed greater atrophy, and incomplete recovery


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 97-B, Issue SUPP_1 | Pages 102 - 102
1 Feb 2015
Mont M
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Knee stiffness is a well-recognised postoperative problem that has been reported to occur in 6% to 15% of all patients who undergo total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and there are multiple preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative risk factors that may predispose patients to postTKA knee stiffness. Preoperative risk factors include poor baseline range of motion (ROM), obesity, and a history of previous knee surgery and/or trauma. Potential intraoperative risk factors for having a stiff knee are malalignment, gap imbalance, and under-resection of patella. Possible postoperative risk factors include heterotopic ossification, pain, poor patient motivation, and poor physical therapy compliance. Three commonly used adjuvant treatments for this condition are custom knee devices, Botox, and ASTYM. These treatment modalities are most effective when used within 6 weeks after surgery. Multiple case series have reported that CKD can improve range of motion while maximising patient-reported functional outcomes. Botox can improve range of motion by paralyzing the muscle where the contracture is located. ASTYM therapy has recently been reported to resolve muscle contractures by effectively stimulating tissue turnover, scar tissue resorption, and regeneration of the normal soft tissue structure. When these adjuvant therapies fail, manipulation under anesthesia has been reported to be efficacious in restoring some of the original ROM. If this fails, there are surgical treatment options such as arthroscopic debridement, surgical release, revision TKA, or peroneal nerve release