Invasive intraneural electrodes implanted in peripheral nerves are neural prosthetic devices that are exploied to control advanced neural-interfaced prostheses in human amputees. One of the main issues to be faced in chronic implants is represented by the gradual loss of functionality of such intraneural interfaces due to an electrical impedance increase caused by the progressive formation of a fibrotic capsule around the electrodes, which is originally due to a nonspecific inflammatory response called foreign body reaction (FBR). In this in vitro work, we tested the biocompatibility and ultra-low fouling features of the synthetic coating - poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) - compared to the organic polymer - zwitterionic sulfated poly(sulfobetaine methacrylate) (SBMA) hydrogel - to prevent or reduce the first steps of the FBR: plasma protein adsorption and cell adhesion to the interface. Synthesis and characterization of the SBMA hydrogel was done. Preliminary biocompatibility analysis of the zwitterionic hydrogel, using hydrogel-conditioned medium, showed no cytotoxicity at all vs. control. We seeded GFP-labelled human myofibroblasts on PEG- and SBMA hydrogel-coated polyimide surfaces and evaluated their adhesion and cell viability at different time-points. Because of the high hydration, low stiffness reflecting the one of neural tissue, and ultra-low fouling characteristics of the SBMA hydrogel, this polymer showed lower myofibroblast adhesion and different cell morphology compared to adhesion controls, thereby representing a better coating than PEG for potentially mitigating the FBR. We conclude that soft SBMA hydrogels could outperform PEG coatings in vitro as more suitable dressings of intraneural electrodes. Furthermore, such SBMA-based antifouling materials can be envisioned as long-term diffusion-based delivery systems for controlled release of anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic drugs in vivo

Background. Glenoid component aseptic loosening is the most common source of total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) revision. In an attempt to strengthen cemented glenoid component fixation, divergent pegged glenoids were designed. Divergent peg creation was intended to increase cement purchase and provide resistance to component rocking. Methods. Thirty-four patients who underwent divergent peg TSA had data collected prospectively. The data from these patients was retrospectively reviewed, primarily for radiographic evidence of glenoid component loosening. The endpoint was defined as the need for revision secondary to glenoid loosening. Secondary outcome measures such as SPADI (shoulder pain and disability index), active forward elevation, abduction, internal rotation, and external rotation were also collected. Data was obtained preoperatively and at the following postoperative intervals: 3 months, 6 months, and yearly. The last available postoperative radiographs were also reviewed and graded on a modified Franklin glenoid lucency scale described by Lazarus et al. Results. The mean follow-up was 5.6 years ± 2.44 (range, 2–10 years). Of the 34 patients in the study, 20 patients had radiographs available for review. Radiographs showed complete lucency around one or less pegs in 14/20 patients (grade 0–2). Six out of twenty glenoids had complete radiolucency around two or more pegs with gross loosening seen in one shoulder (grade 3–5). No secondary surgery was performed in any patients. Significant improvements were seen in active elevation 30.2 degrees ±44.3 (p=0.043) at the last follow up. Improvement was also seen in internal rotation of 4.3 levels ± 4.9 (p=0.016) at the last follow-up. The mean postoperative SPADI score decreased by 48.1 points (p=0.039). Conclusions. Patients with divergent pegged glenoid TSA showed significant improvement in postoperative shoulder elevation, internal rotation, and SPADI scores at final follow-up. No patients underwent revision. However, there were a significant number of patients with radiolucency seen around 2 or more pegs

The incidence of comminuted proximal femur fractures is increasing, due to the growing proportion of elderly people in the general population. Severely depleted cancellous bone in the femoral head and neck prevent stable proximal purchase, mandatory for intertrochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures. Osteoporotic bones are associated with high implant failure rates, evidenced by cutout and upward screw penetration of the hip joint. A new method for femoral head fixation is described. The peg consists of a distal end that can expand in diameter from 7.8mm to 10.5mm by using pressurized saline, allowing good abutment into the femoral head. The peg may be connected to a side plate or an intramedullary device for inter or subtrochanteric fractures. Materials and Methods: Ten femoral heads were retrieved from patients who underwent hip hemiarthroplasty due to subcapital fracture. The heads were covered with a transparent epoxy resin until full solidification was obtained. An 8mm drill-hole was used to drill from the distal femoral neck along the femoral head axis, not penetrating the subchondral bone and cartilage. Afterwards, 1.4mm drill was used to penetrate the cartilage and subchondral bone of the femoral head for insertion of a pressure gage. Intraosseous pressure measurements were then recorded. The peri-prosthetic bone density was evaluated by Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) and Microradiography Computer Analysis in two stages: 1) with the peg unexpanded, and 2) with the peg expanded. In addition, Instron 8871 tested axial load, pullout and rotatory strengths of the peg. Results: Increased periprosthetic bone density following peg expansion was demonstrated on DEXA and microradiography with no increase in the intraosseous pressure. The friction coefficient of the bone implant interface, calculated by axial load measurements, was less than the coefficient of steel to steel. Pullout and rotatory strengths were as good as those reported for the Dynamic Hip Screw (DHS). Conclusions: Bone stock preservation due to compression of the depleted cancellous bone (rather than removed bone by drilling) may improve the mechanical properties of the periprosthetic bone and the stability of the fixation. Due to the strong abutment of the peg, hardware failure, mainly bone cutout can be reduced. Due to its lower friction coefficient, the hip peg will begin to slide following axial load through the plate or the intramedullary device, rather than penetrating the femoral head. Preliminary positive results indicate that this new method may be suitable for inter or subtrochanteric femoral fracture fixation

Aim of the study: To prove that tapered pegs are effective in reducing tibial tray subsidence in vitro and that this effect is related to the dimensions of these pegs. Methods: The peg designs were drawn up mathematically to allow for a unified surface area – Three different designs were used. The pegs were made from cobalt chrome, were conical in shape with a cut off tip and had a variable base and height and an equal surface area. These pegs were fixed with screws to an IB 11 HA coated tibial tray. Wet foam was used as bone substitute, this is an open cell foam that is fairly fragile but has the benefit of being constant and is cheap and readily available. This foam is not desired to have cancellous bone characteristics but is useful in observing the relative effect of adding these pegs. Two different settings in vivo were mimicked: that of a tibial tray and pegs resting fully on cancellous bone, in which case a central vertical force was applied, and that of the tray resting on the cortex on one side with a lateral vertical force applied over the other side in both the proud and flush setting (2& 4 pegs respectively). The investigation was undertaken using a home made system allowing a crude estimate of the forces producing initial subsidence, which was identified by initial fracture of the foam, and total subsidence which was identified as total failure of the foam. Each test was carried out three times. Controls were carried out on the tray with no pegs and on the pegs individually before attaching these to the tray and repeating the tests for each design. Results: Using this crude approach, the mean control force for total subsidence of the pegs was as follows: Short with wide base 550.3 g (± 45.3 g), medium length and base 475.6 g (± 24.25 g), long with narrow base 364.5 g (± 24.25 g). The mean control force for initial subsidence of the tray without pegs when subjected to a vertical central force was 4.3 kg (4–4.5 ± 0.27 kg) and the total subsidence force for the tray was 7.32 Kg (5.5–8, ± 0.84 kg). The mean central vertical force for initial subsidence of the tray with the tapers mounted was 7.16 kg (7–7.5 ± 0.28), for the short wide pegs, 5.33 kg (5–5.5 ± 0.28) for the medium pegs and 5.33 kg (5–6 ± 0.57) for the long pegs. The mean central vertical force for total subsidence of the tray with the tapers mounted was 9 kg (8.5–9.5 ± 0.5) for the short wide pegs, 9.8 kg (8–11 ± 1.6) for the medium pegs and 9.6 kg (8.5–11.5 ± 1.6) for the long pegs. The mean lateral control force for total subsidence of the proud tray with pegs resting on the wooden ledge was 5 kg (4–6 ± 0.75). The mean lateral vertical force for total subsidence with all pegs mounted was 7.16 kg (7–7.5 ± 0.28) for the short pegs, 5.8 kg (5.5–6 ± 0.28) for the medium pegs and 5.5 (5.5–5.6 ± 0.05) for the long pegs. No definite initial subsidence force could be identified. The mean lateral control force for total subsidence of the flush tray resting on the wooden ledge was 13.16 kg (12.5–14 ± 0.76). The mean lateral vertical force for total subsidence with pegs mounted on the foam side was 12.3 kg (11.5–13 ± 0–76) for the short pegs, 13.5 kg (12–15.5 ± 1.8) for the medium pegs and 13.83 kg (12–15.5 ± 1.7) for the long pegs. Again no definite initial subsidence force could be identified. Conclusion: The addition of tapered conical pegs to the tibial tray increases the resistance to subsidence when subjected to a central vertical force with the tray sitting fully on foam. The initial subsidence resistance was more marked in the case of the short wide variety. In the case of the tray resting on the hard edge and a lateral force applied, the proud tray showed improved resistance to total subsidence with the short pegs while the flush tray did not show improvement with pegs and was marginally worse with the short pegs. This is probably due to a higher margin of observer error

Purposes of the study. The most common fracture of the cervical spine in the elderly population is a fracture of the odontoid peg. Such fractures are usually not displaced and these are commonly treated non-operatively. Rarely though, peg fractures are displaced and then their management is less straightforward. This is in part because the group of patients who sustain them frequently have complex and pre-existing medical co-morbidities and in part because a new neurological injury may have been sustained as a result of the peg fracture itself. Many options for the management of displaced peg fractures, both operative and non-operative have been described in the literature and discussion continues as to which technique is superior and in which patient population. The purpose of this study was to follow-up those patients who were managed operatively in our unit between 2007 and 2009. Methods and Results. We present our case series of 4 patients who sustained significantly displaced fractures of the odontoid peg with accompanying neurological injury, who were treated with posterior stabilisation using the Harms technique. Conclusions. We have found this method to be safe and reliable. It not only yields a good surgical outcome, but allows patients' rehabilitation to be optimised, maximising functional improvement. We believe the technique is superior to anterior stabilisation in this patient population because it utilises superior posterior bone quality and mechanical fixation. The approach in our unit is to treat elderly patients with displaced odontoid peg fractures according to the same principles as would be followed in managing those that have disabling injuries such as fractures of the femoral neck; early stabilisation and early mobilisation in those patients whose co-morbidities allow it

Background. Fractures of the odontoid peg are one of the commonest spinal injuries in the elderly population. In this population there is a higher risk of morbidity and mortality as a result of the injury. The magnitude of this risk has not been quantified in the literature. Aim. To show a survivorship analysis in a cohort of elderly patients with odontoid peg fractures. Method and Materials. A 6-year retrospective analysis was performed on all patients >65 years old admitted to a spinal unit with an isolated odontoid peg fracture. Actuarial (Life-Table) analysis was used to estimate survivorship from the date of fracture. Results. A total of 32 patients > 65 years of age with isolated odontoid peg fractures were identified. There were 17 male and 15 female. A low velocity mechanical fall was the commonest cause for the injury. The average age for the females was 86.7 years and for the males 78 years. The age distribution was unimodal in both sex, the greatest number occurring for the females in the 85-94 year age group and 75-84 years for the males. Overall, it was estimated that only 62.5 % would be alive by one year. The period of greatest mortality was within the first 12 weeks, a lesser contribution from then to one year, and had no impact on mortality thereafter. Males appeared to suffer a heavier mortality than females within the first year. At one year the male survival rate had fallen to 58.8% compared with a female rate of 66.6%. Conclusion. We observed that odontoid peg fractures in the elderly are not benign injuries and are a cause of high mortality rates within the first three months of the injury. Patients who survived to one year following the injury were observed to have their risk return to age and sex matched rates for this population

Background. Fractures of the odontoid peg are one of the commonest cervical spinal injuries in the elderly population. In this population there is a higher risk of morbidity and mortality as a result of the injury. The magnitude of the mortality risk has not been quantified in the literature. Aim. To show a survivorship analysis in a cohort of elderly patients with odontoid peg fractures. Method & Materials. A 6-year retrospective analysis was performed on all patients >65 years old with isolated odontoid peg fracture. Kaplan-Meir curve was used to estimate survivorship from the date of fracture. Results. A total of 32 patients witha mean age of 82.1 years were analysed. There were 17 male and 15 female with an average follow-up of 20.4 months. A low velocity mechanical fall was the commonest cause for the injury in 93.7% of cases. 81% of cases were treated with rigid collar immobilsation. Overall, it was estimated that only 62.5 % would be alive by one year. The period of greatest mortality was within the first 12 weeks, a lesser contribution from then to one year, and had no impact on mortality thereafter. Multivariate logistic regression demonstrated that age (P= 0.02) was significant factor with an odds ratio of 1.2. There was no significant relationship among gender or treatment with the occurrence of an adverse event. Conclusion. We observed a 3 month and one year mortality rates of 255 and 37.5% respectively. Odontoid peg fractures in the elderly are not benign injuries and are a cause of high mortality rates within the first three months of the injury. Patients who survived to one year following the injury were observed to have their risk return to age and sex matched rates for this population

This is a study of the quality of outcome of the first 100 patients who received the Twin Peg Oxford Partial knee replacement; which has been designed with a 15 degree extra surface for contact in deep flexion, and two pins for more secure fixation. We measured the outcome in patients with anteromedial osteoarthritis at 2 years after implantation using patient perception outcome measures: the OKS (Oxford Knee Score) and a patient satisfaction questionnaire. We also measured range of motion, the AKS (American Knee Society Score-Objective), the AFS (American Knee Society Score-Functional), and carried out a radiological assessment. The results showed a mean OKS of 41, a mean AKS of 93, a mean AFS of 84, a mean range of motion of 130 degrees and a 97% satisfaction rate. Results were significantly better in male patients. There were no deaths, infections, dislocations, fractures or revisions. There were no radiolucent lines of 2 mms or more at the femoral bone-cement interfaces. The introduction of this new version of the Oxford knee shows excellent clinical and radiological results which are at least as good as those seen with the Phase 3 Oxford Partial knee replacement. Small adjustments were made to the minimally invasive approach: a reduced invasive incision for ease of implantation. For those surgeons who are concerned over the risks of femoral loosening with the Phase 3 implant, or desire an improved surface area of contact at high angles of flexion, this Twin Peg Oxford Partial knee replacement offers an excellent alternative

The management of type two odontoid peg fractures remains controversial. The policy in our unit is to initially manage all of these injuries non-operatively. Patients with displaced fractures (0.2mm translation, > 15° angulation) are placed in halo vests followed by fracture reduction under radiological control. Undisplaced or minimally displaced fractures are treated in either custom-made minerva orthoses or halo vests. We report the results of 42 consecutive cases of type two odontoid peg fractures. There were 24 males and 18 females with a mean age of 53 (range 18–89) years. Twenty-one (50%) of patients were > 65 years of age. In 29 cases the fracture was undisplaced or minimally displaced and in the remaining 13 cases it was displaced (> 2mm translation, > 15° angulation) either posteriorly (extension-type)(6) or anteriorly (flexion type) (7). All displaced cases were treated in halo vests while the remainder were treated in minervas (14) or halo vests (15). Loss of reduction occurred in nine cases necessitating adjustment in five and C1/2 posterior fusion in four. Of these cases five were displaced extension type-fractures, two required fusion. Pin site infection necessitated early removal of halo vest and conversion to minerva in three cases. In all of these cases fracture union was achieved. Overall, union was achieved in 37 patients giving a non-union rate of 12%. The mean age of the five non-unions was 42 years with only one patient over 65 years of age. Four of these patients had C1/2 posterior fusions and the remaining patient refused surgery. Of the 29 patients with displaced or minimally displaced fractures five (17%) required surgery for either non-union (3) or displacement (2), whereas three (23%) of the displaced group required surgery for non-union (1) or displacement (2). All of these were extension type fractures. We conclude that a policy of non-operative management of these fractures resulted in union in a high proportion of patients of all age groups except for those with extension type fractures. This fracture pattern may warrant primary surgical intervention

Background: Type II odontoid fractures are the commonest upper cervical spine injury in the elderly, following minor falls. Structural heterogeneity within the axis with deficiency of bone mass in the base of the odontoid process has been attributed for these fractures. Aims: To analyse whether osteoporosis at the dens-body junction is directly related to the occurrence of odontoid fractures in the elderly. Material and Methods: We studied the reformatted CT scan images of 36 patients over the age of 70 years who had cervical spine injuries following minor trauma. In all these patients the severity of osteoporosis at the dens-body junction, and in the peg and body of axis were evaluated. The severity was graded into none, mild, moderate and severe, depending on the cortical thickness, trabecular pattern, and the size of holes (absence of trabeculae) using sagittal, coronal and transverse sections of CT scan pictures. The osteoporosis was graded into none, mild, moderate and severe. Statistical analysis was performed using Pearsons Chi-square test to find the significance of osteoporosis at the dens-body junction in producing Type II odontoid fractures in the elderly. Results: Type II odontoid fractures was seen in 21 patients. Eleven of the 21 patients with Type II fractures and eight of the 15 patients with no Type II odontoid fractures had significant osteoporosis at the dens-body junction. Five patients with Type II fracture and eight patients with no Type II fractures had significant osteoporosis at the dens and body of axis. Statistical analysis showed that the osteoporosis at the dens-body junction was not significant in patients with Type II odontoid fracture compared to those with no Type II odontoid fracture (Chi-square value = 1.1; df = 3, p = 0.78). Conclusions: Eventhough osteoporosis is one of the factors that increase the incidence of Type II fractures of the odontoid process in the elderly, it is not a direct aetiological factor

Purpose: The goal was to determine whether locking screws (LS) or smooth locking pegs (SP), optimize fixation of 4-part intraarticular distal radius fractures. The secondary goal was to determine which combinations of LS and SP influence construct stability. Method: In anatomic radius models, 4-part intraarticular distal radius fractures were fixed using volar locking plates. For the first part, 16 specimens were randomized to receive either 2 LS or 2 SP in each of the 3 pairs of holes in the plate. For the second part, 30 specimens were randomized to receive any 4 combinations of LS and SP in each of the 3 pairs of holes. Axial loading to failure was applied. Results: Constructs consisting of 4 SP within the lunate fragment were significantly weaker than constructs with 4 LS (mean 626.18 N vs. mean 980.76 N, p=0.01283). Constructs with SP in the ulnar positions of the lunate fragment were weaker than with LS in these positions (mean 736.73 N vs. 977.37 N respectively, p=0.00866). LS in the subchondral position of the lunate fragment were stronger than SP in these positions (mean 1226.99 N vs. 933.64 N, p= 0.00468) and any other combination (mean 1226.99 N vs. 941.97 N, p=0.0027). Conclusion: The use of LS as opposed to SP for 4-part intraarticular distal radius fractures, particularly subchondral and in ulnar side of the lunate fragment, optimizes construct stability. This may have implications on postoperative rehabilitation protocols and may limit costs related to the use of volar locking plates

Intraneural electrodes can be harnessed to control neural prosthetic devices in human amputees. However, in chronic implants we witness a gradual loss of device functionality and electrode isolation due to a nonspecific inflammatory response to the implanted material, called foreign body reaction (FBR). FBR may eventually lead to a fibrous encapsulation of the electrode surface. Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) is one of the most common low-fouling materials used to coat and protect electrode surfaces. Yet, PEG can easily undergo encapsulation and oxidative damage in long-term in vivo applications. Poly(sulfobetaine methacrylate) - poly(SBMA) - zwitterionic hydrogels may represent more promising alternatives to minimize the FBR due to their ultra-low fouling features. Here, we tested and compared the poly(SBMA) zwitterionic hydrogel coating with the PEG coating in reducing adhesion and activation of pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic cells to polyimide surfaces, which are early hallmarks of FBR. We aimed to coat polyimide surfaces with a hydrogel thin film and analysed the release of a model drug from the hydrogel. We performed hydrogel synthesis, mechanical characterization and biocompatibility analysis. Cell adhesion, viability and morphology of human myofibroblasts cultured on PEG- and hydrogel-coated surfaces were evaluated through confocal microscopy-based high-content analysis (HCA). Reduced activation of pro-inflammatory human macrophages cultured on hydrogels was assessed as well as the hydrogel drug release profile. Because of its high hydration, biocompatibility, low stiffness and ultra-low fouling characteristics the hydrogel enabled lower adhesion and activation of pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic cells vs. polystyrene controls, and showed a long-term release of the anti-fibrotic drug Everolimus. Furthermore, a polyimide surface was successfully coated with a hydrogel thin film. Our soft zwitterionic hydrogel could outperform PEG as more suitable coating material of neural electrodes for mitigating the FBR. Such poly(SBMA)-based biomaterial could also be envisioned as long-term delivery system for a sustained release of anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic drugs in vivo

Abstract. Aim. Excessive glenoid retroversion and posterior wear leads to technical challenges when performing anatomic shoulder replacement. Various techniques have been described to correct glenoid version, including eccentric reaming, bone graft, posterior augmentation and custom prosthesis. Clinical outcomes and survivorship of a Stemless humeral component with cemented pegged polyethylene glenoid with eccentric reaming to partially correct retroversion are presented. Patients and Methods. Between 2010– 2019, 115 Mathys Affinis Stemless Shoulder Replacements were performed. 50 patients with significant posterior wear and retroversion (Walch type B1, B2, B3 and C) were identified. Measurement of Pre-operative glenoid retroversion and Glenoid component version on a post op axillary view was performed by method as described by Matsen FA. Relative correction was correlated with clinical and radiological outcome. Results. 4 were lost to follow up. 46 patients were therefore reviewed. The mean follow up was 4 years (2–8.9 years). Walch B1, Pre op Retroversion: 12 (8–20), post op retroversion :11.8 (−4 to 19), correction= 0.2. Walch B2, Pre op Retroversion :18.4 (10–32), post op retroversion: 13.2 (1 −22), correction= 5.2. Walch B3, Pre op Retroversion: 19.1 (13–32)post op retroversion : 16.1 (9–25), correction= 3.0. Walch C, Pre op Retroversion: 33.3 (28–42) post op retroversion: 16.0 (6–27), correction= 17.3. 3 patients required revision surgery for rotator cuff failure. Conclusion. Partial correction of glenoid retroversion with eccentric reaming and implantation of cemented pegged polyethylene component leads to satisfactory clinical outcomes at midterm follow up. No revisions for aseptic loosening of the glenoid were required

Background. The advent of EOS imaging has offered clinicians the opportunity to image the whole skeleton in the anatomical standing position with a smaller radiation dose than standard spine roentgenograms. It is known as the fifth modality of imaging. Current NICE guidelines do not recommend EOS scans over x-rays citing: “The evidence indicated insufficient patient benefit in terms of radiation dose reduction and increased throughput to justify its cost”. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed 103 adult and 103 paediatric EOS scans of standing whole spines including shoulders and pelvis for those undergoing investigation for spinal deformity in a tertiary spinal centre in the UK. We matched this against a retrospective control group of 103 adults and 103 children who underwent traditional roentgenograms whole spine imaging at the same centre during the same timeframe. We aimed to compare the average radiation dose of AP and lateral images between the two modalities. We utilised a validated lifetime risk of cancer calculator (. www.xrayrisk.com. ) to estimate the additional mean risk per study. Results. In the Adult EOS Group (AEG) the mean estimated effective dose of AP was 0.08 mSv (0.04–0.15) and Lateral 0.06 mSv (0.03–0.14). Conversely in the Adult Roentgenograms Group (ARG) the mean AP was 0.49 mSv (0.15–1.88) and Lateral was 0.29 mSv (0.07–1.20). In the Paediatric EOS Group (PEG): the mean dose of AP was 0.07 mSv (0.02–0.21) and Lateral 0.04 mSv (0.02–0.11). Conversely Paediatric Roentgenograms Group (PRG) had a mean dose in AP of 0.37 mSv (0.03–5.92) and in lateral of 0.17 mSv (0.03–0.44). The percentage differences were: ARG:AES AP 613%, ARG:AES Lat 483%, PPG:PEG AP 529%, PRG:PEG Lat 425%. Mean difference 513%. The additional lifetime cancer risk for AEG was 1 in 176056 for males and 1 in 138696 for females, compared to ARG 1 in 31596 for males and 1 in 24894 for females. In PEG that was 1 in 58207 for boys and 1 in 33367 for girls, compared to PRG 1 in 11860 for boys and 1 in 6797 in girls. Differences in additional lifetime risk of cancer per scan: ARG:AES Male 557%, Female 557%, PRG:PEG Male 491%, Females 491%. Conclusion. Standard plain film imaging of the whole spine requires approximately five-times higher doses of radiation compared to dual planar EOS scans. This carries a significant impact when considering the need for repeat imaging on additional lifetime malignancy risk in both children and adults. There is approximately 5-fold increase in risk of cancer for all groups with roentgenograms over EOS. We directly challenge the NICE guidance and recommend EOS dual planar imaging in favour of plane roentgenograms for investigation of spinal deformity

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is commonly used to treat patients with rotator cuff tear arthropathy. Loosening of the glenoid component remains one of the principal modes of failure and is the main complication leading to revision. For optimal RSA implant osseointegration to occur, the micromotion between the baseplate and the bone must not exceed a threshold of 150 µm. Excess micromotion contributes to glenoid loosening. This study assessed the effects of various factors on glenoid baseplate micromotion for primary fixation of RSA. A half-fractional factorial experiment design (2k-1) was used to assess four factors: central element type (central peg or screw), central element cortical engagement according to length (13.5 or 23.5 mm), anterior-posterior (A-P) peripheral screw type (nonlocking or locking), and bone surrogate density (10 or 25 pounds per cubic foot [pcf]). This created eight unique conditions, each repeated five times for 40 total runs. Glenoid baseplates were implanted into high- or low-density Sawbones™ rigid polyurethane (PU) foam blocks and cyclically loaded at 60 degrees for 1000 cycles (500 N compressive force range) using a custom designed loading apparatus. Micromotion at the four peripheral screw positions was recorded using linear variable displacement transducers (LVDTs). Maximum micromotion was quantified as the displacement range at the implant-PU interface, averaged over the last 10 cycles of loading. Baseplates with short central elements that lacked cortical bone engagement generated 373% greater maximum micromotion at all peripheral screw positions compared to those with long central elements (p < 0.001). Central peg fixation generated 360% greater maximum micromotion than central screw fixation (p < 0.001). No significant effects were observed when varying A-P peripheral screw type or bone surrogate density. There were significant interactions between central element length and type (p < 0.001). An interaction existed between central element type and level of cortical engagement. A central screw and a long central element that engaged cortical bone reduced RSA baseplate micromotion. These findings serve to inform surgical decision-making regarding baseplate fixation elements to minimize the risk of glenoid loosening and thus, the need for revision surgery

Introduction. Long term data on the survivorship of cemented total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has demonstrated excellent outcomes; however, with younger, more active patients, surgeons have a renewed interest in improved biologic fixation obtained from highly porous, cementless implants. Early designs of cementless total knees systems were fraught with high rates of failure for aseptic loosening, particularly on the tibial component. Prior studies have assessed the bone ingrowth extent for tibial tray designs reporting near 30% extent of bone ingrowth . (1,2). While these analyses were performed on implants that demonstrated unacceptably high rates of clinical failure, a paucity of data exists on the extent on bone ingrowth in contemporary implant designs with newer methods for manufacturing the porous surfaces. We sought to evaluate the extent of attached bone on retrieved cementless tibial trays to determine if patient demographics, device factors, or radiographic results correlate to the extent of bone ingrowth in these contemporary designs. Methods. Using our IRB approved retrieval database, 17 porous tibial trays were identified and separated into groups based on manufacturer: Zimmer Natural Knee (1), Zimmer NexGen (10), Stryker Triathlon (4) and Biomet Vanguard Regenerex (2). Differences in manufacturing methods for porous material designs were recorded. Patient demographics and reason for revision are described in Table 1. Radiographs were used to measure tibiofemoral alignment and the tibial mechanical axis alignment. Components were assessed using visual light microscopy and Photoshop to map bone ingrowth extent across the porous surface. ImageJ was used to threshold and calculate values for bone, scratched metal, and available surface for bone ingrowth (Fig. 1). Percent extent was determined as the bone ingrowth compared to the surface area excluding any scratched regions from explantation. Statistics were performed among tray designs as well as between the lateral and medial pegs, if designs had pegs available for bony ingrowth. Results. Mean bone ingrowth extent was 51.4% for the tibial tray for the entire cohort. Bone ingrowth extent was statistically greater in the Zimmer NexGen design (63.8%; p=.027) compared to the other three designs (Table 2). Four sets of pegs were excluded from analysis due to lack of porous coatings or pegs having been removed at revision surgery. Across all designs, the medial peg had 45.2% ingrowth and the lateral peg had 66.1% ingrowth. The medial peg for the NexGen design had significantly less bone ingrowth compared to the lateral peg (58.7% vs. 75.4%; p=0.044). No significant differences were found in tibiofemoral alignment or tibial mechanical axis alignment between the implant groups. No significant differences were found among implants revised for aseptic loosening versus any other reason for revision (54% vs 30%; p=.18). Discussion. Our results demonstrate high rates of bone ingrowth extent in contemporary designs, further supporting porous design rationales and a role for additive manufacturing to form enhanced porosity. We plan on exploring staining techniques to confirm our visual inspection. Contemporary designs have shown successful rates for improved longevity for cementless total knee systems. For any figures or tables, please contact the authors directly

Introduction. Cementless total knee arthroplasty (TKA) designs are clinically successful and allow for long term biological fixation. Utilizing morselized bone to promote biological fixation is a strategy in cementless implantation. However, it is unknown how bone debris influences the initial placement of the tray. Recent findings show that unseated tibia trays without good contact with the tibial resection experience increased motion. This current study focuses on the effect of technique and instrument design on the initial implantation of a cementless porous tibia. Specifically, can technique or instrument design influence generation of bone debris, and thereby change the forces required to fully seat a cementless tray with pegs?. Methods. This bench top test measured the force-displacement curve during controlled insertion of a modern cementless tibia plate with two fixation pegs. A total of nine pairs of stripped human cadaver tibias were prepared according to the surgical technique. However, the holes for the fixation pegs were drilled intentionally shallow to isolate changes in insertion force due to the hole preparation. A first generation instrument set (Instrument 1.0) and new instrument set design (Instrument 2.0), including a new drill bit designed to remove debris from the peg hole, were used. The tibias prepared with Instrument 1.0 were either cleaned to remove bone debris from the holes or not cleaned. The tibias prepared with the Instrument 2.0 instruments were not cleaned, resulting in three groups: Instrument 1.0 (n=7), Instrument 1.0 Cleaned (n=5), and Instrument 2.0 (n=6). Following tibia resection and preparation of holes for the fixation pegs, the tibias were cut and potted in bone cement ensuring the osteotomy was horizontal. The tibial tray was mounted in a load frame (Enduratec) and the trays were inserted at a constant rate (0.169mm/sec) while recording the force. The test was concluded when the pegs were clearly past the bottom of the intentionally shallow holes. Results. The force-displacement curves from this method were dependent on the instrument used and cleaning of the holes. Instrument 2.0 specimens were inserted about 2 mm past the maximum peg depth before experiencing a significant increased resistance. The Instrument 1.0 Cleaned holes saw an increase in force slightly past the maximum peg depth, while the Instrument 1.0 group saw increase in force around 1 mm before reaching the maximum peg depth. The average insertion force required to reach maximum peg depth was significantly higher (p<0.05) for the Instrument 1.0 group (790.7 N, sd=185.9) than both the Instrument 1.0 Cleaned (429.7 N, sd=116.8) and the Instrument 2.0 group (580.4 N, sd=89.3). The insertion forces at a ‘mid-tunnel’ location, before the increase in resistance, were not affected by drill design as the drill diameters were the same, resulting in the same press fit. Conclusions. Bone debris in fixation feature holes increases the force to fully seat a cementless tibia plate. This suggests there is a cost to leaving morselized bone in place. Removing bone debris through instrument design or surgical technique can ensure that a tibial plate is fully seated at time of implantation, maximizing initial fixation

Background. The modern modular implants allow surgeons to combine different combinations of components within the same brand of which some may have completely different design. During 1999–2012 the same cemented femur component was used together with a cemented stemmed tibia baseplate and also against a cemented pegged tibia baseplate. We decided to compare the revision rate of total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) using these two tibia baseplates. Methods. This is a register study. During 1999–2012, 32,429 cemented, CR TKA's of a specific brand were reported to the Swedish Knee Arthroplasty Register (SKAR). The part numbers for the femur, tibia and insert (in modular implants) were available in 99.2% of cases. The most common combination used the cemented CR femur against a cemented stemmed baseplate in 50.3% of cases while the same CR femur was used against a cemented pegged baseplate in 8.3% of cases, mainly at two hospitals. In order to make the material more comparable, only patients having osteoarthritis (OA) were included and only TKAs using two types of regular constraint inserts and in which the patella had been left un-resurfaced. Chi-Square test was used to investigate gender distribution in the groups and t-test for the mean age at surgery. Kaplan Meier analysis and the log-rank test were used to evaluate the risk of revision until the end of 2016. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results. After exclusions, there were 15,287 knees with the stemmed and 2,479 with the pegged tibia baseplate. The mean follow-up time was 8.1 years (range 0–18). The proportion of women in the stemmed group was 59% and 60% in the pegged group (p=0.32) and the mean age at surgery for the groups was 69.9 years and 70.0 years, respectively (p=0.41). The cumulative revision rate (CRR) at 15 years for TKAs using the stemmed baseplate was 3.0% (95% CI: 2.6–3.5) as compared to 5.8% (95% CI: 4.0–8.3) for the pegged baseplate (p=0.003). When only revisions for loosening were considered, the CRR was respectively 0.6% (95% CI: 0.4–0. 9) and 3. 8% (95% CI: 2.3–6.3) (p<0.001). Conclusion. We found that TKAs using the pegged base plate had significantly higher risk for revision, both for all reasons as well as for only loosening. As the pegged baseplate surgeries were performed mostly at only two hospitals it is possible that local factors are to blame. However, considering that after stopping using the pegged baseplate, the two hospitals performed least as well as other hospitals using the same brand we think it is likely that the pegged plate has a higher risk of loosening and that our observation warrants that the performance of pegged plates is investigated in other registers

The degeneration of the intervertebral disc (IVD) is the primary cause for low back pain, which is treated with surgical interventions such as spinal fusion. A strategy to develop a regenerative and non-invasive treatment requires an injectable cell carrier system. Our efforts have focussed on developing a hyaluronan (HA)-based hydrogel system that can be used as a carrier for therapeutic agents in annulus fibrosus (AF) repair. High molecular weight HA at 20mM is chemically crosslinked with varying concentrations of 4-arm PEG. Hydrogels were optimised for degree of crosslinking, stability and rheological properties. Subsequently, the morphology and viability of the human AF cells encapsulated in the hydrogels were studied. The highest crosslinking was seen with 4-arm PEG at 1:1 HA:PEG molar ratio. This was the most stable against enzymatic and hydrolytic degradation, and had greater swelling property, which is desired as the degeneration decreases the water retention capability of the IVD. The gelation time, important for in situ injectability, was under five minutes for all formulations. Storage modulus was between 0.4–1.1 kPa. Compared to 2D cultures, cells were rounder after encapsulation, mimicking the native microenvironment, and had the similar metabolic activity for seven days. AF cells encapsulated in HA/4-arm PEG hydrogel were stiffer compared to the nucleus pulposus (NP) cells encapsulated similarly as measured with Brillouin microscopy. The 4-arm PEG crosslinked HA-based hydrogel system promises to be a candidate for an injectable carrier for cells for AF repair and regeneration

Most glenoid implants rely on centrally located large fixation features to avoid perforation of the glenoid vault in its peripheral regions [1]. Upon revision of such components there may not be enough bone left for the reinsertion of an anatomical prosthesis, resulting in a large cavity that resembles a sink hole. Multiple press-fit small pegs would allow for less bone resection and strong anchoring in the stiffer and denser peripheral subchondral bone [2], whilst producing a more uniform stress distribution and increased shear resistance per unit volume [3] and avoiding the complications from the use of bone cement. This study assessed the best combination of anchoring strength, assessed as the ratio between push in and pull out forces (Pin/Pout), and spring-back, measured as the elastic displacement immediately after insertion, for five different small press-fitted peg configurations (Figure 1, left) manufactured out of UHMWPE cylinders (5 mm diameter and length). 16 specimens for each configuration were tested in two types of Sawbones solid bone substitute: hard (40 PCF, 0.64 g/cm3, worst-case scenario of Pin) and soft (15 PCF, 0.24 g/cm3, worst-case scenario of spring-back and Pout). Two different interference-fits, Ø, were studied by drilling holes with 4.7 mm and 4.5 mm diameter (Ø 0.3 and Ø 0.5, respectively). A maximum Pin per peg of 50 N was defined, in order to avoid fracture of the glenoid bone during insertion of multiple pegs. The peg specimens were mounted into the single-axis screw-driven Instron through a threaded fixture. A schematic of the experimental set up is made available (Figure 1, centre). The peg was pushed in vertically for a maximum of 5 mm at a 1 mm/s rate, under displacement control, recording Pin. The spring-back effect was assessed by switching to load control and reducing the load to zero. The peg was then pulled out at a rate of 1 mm/s, recording Pout. The test profile is depicted in Figure 1 (right). Average Pout/Pin, spring back (in mm) and force-displacement curves for all 80 specimens tested are shown in Figure 2. These were split into groups according to the type of bone substitute and interference-fit, with the right column showing the average values for the Pin. High repeatability among samples of the same configuration tested is noted. Configurations #1, #3 and #5 all exceed the maximum Pin per peg for at least one type of bone. Configuration #2 has the lowest Pin of all (best thread aspect ratio), followed by configuration #4 (thinner threads). The peg configurations #4 and #2 had the highest Pin/Pout. The peg configurations with lowest spring-back after insertion were configuration #2 and #4. Interference fit of Ø 0.3 mm was shown to reduce Pin below maximum limit of 50 N without great influence in spring-back