Aims

With up to 40% of patients having patellofemoral joint osteoarthritis (PFJ OA), the two arthroplasty options are to replace solely the patellofemoral joint via patellofemoral arthroplasty (PFA), or the entire knee via total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The aim of this study was to assess postoperative success of second-generation PFAs compared to TKAs for patients treated for PFJ OA using patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and domains deemed important by patients following a patient and public involvement meeting.

Aims

The aim of this study was to evaluate medium- to long-term outcomes and complications of the Stanmore Modular Individualised Lower Extremity System (SMILES) rotating hinge implant in revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA) at a tertiary unit. It is hypothesized that this fully cemented construct leads to satisfactory clinical outcomes.

Aims

The effects of remnant preservation on the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and its relationship with the tendon graft remain unclear. We hypothesized that the co-culture of remnant cells and bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) decreases apoptosis and enhances the activity of the hamstring tendons and tenocytes, thus aiding ACL reconstruction.

Aims

The mid-term results of kinematic alignment (KA) for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) using image derived instrumentation (IDI) have not been reported in detail, and questions remain regarding ligamentous stability and revisions. This paper aims to address the following: 1) what is the distribution of alignment of KA TKAs using IDI; 2) is a TKA alignment category associated with increased risk of failure or poor patient outcomes; 3) does extending limb alignment lead to changes in soft-tissue laxity; and 4) what is the five-year survivorship and outcomes of KA TKA using IDI?

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2022;11(8):514–517.

Aims

The aim of this study was to evaluate medium-term outcomes and complications of the S-ROM NOILES Rotating Hinge Knee System (DePuy, USA) in revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA) at a tertiary unit.

Aims

Debate continues regarding the optimum management of periprosthetic distal femoral fractures (PDFFs). This study aims to determine which operative treatment is associated with the lowest perioperative morbidity and mortality when treating low (Su type II and III) PDFFs comparing lateral locking plate fixation (LLP-ORIF) or distal femoral arthroplasty (DFA).

Aims

The aim of this study was to determine and compare the congruency of the articular surface contact area of the patellofemoral joint (PFJ) during both active and passive movement of the knee with the use of an MRI mapping technique in both the stable and unstable PFJ.

Purpose. In vivo comparative gap measurements were performed in 3 different patella positions (reduced, subluxated and everted) using offset-type-force-controlled-spreader-system. Methods. Prospectively, 50 knees were operated by TKA using a navigation-assisted gap balancing technique. The offset-type-force-controlled-spreader-system was used for gap measurements. This commercially-available instrument allows controllable tension in patella reduced position. The mediolateral gaps of knee extension (0°) and flexion (90°) angle were recorded in 3 different patella positions; reduced, subluxated and everted. Any gap differences of more than 3 mm were considered as a meaningful difference. Correlation between the difference with the demographic data, preoperative radiologic alignment and intraoperative data was analyzed. For statistical analysis, ANOVA and Pearson correlation test were used. Results. The gaps in patella eversion demonstrated smaller gaps both in knee extension and flexion position compared to the gaps of patella reduction position. The amount of decreased gaps was more definite in knee flexion position. Statistically significant difference were observed for the lateral gap of patella eversion compared to gap of patella reduction in knee flexion position (p<0.05). There were notable cases of variability in knee flexion position. Significant portion 12 (24%) knees of patella subluxation and 33 (66%) knees of patella evertion demonstrated either increased or decreased gaps in knee flexion position compared from the gaps of patella reduction position. Conclusion. The gaps in patella eversion demonstrated smaller gaps both in knee extension and flexion position compared to the gaps of patella reduction position. The amount of decreased gaps was more definite in knee flexion position. Therefore, the intraoperative patellar positioning has influence on the measurement of the joint gap. Keeping the patella in reduced position is important during gap balancing

Arthroscopic intervention for early symptoms of arthrosis of the knee was a well-established procedure until Moseley cited his study showing no difference in outcomes when compared to “sham” surgery. Now there is no opportunity for reimbursement with arthroscopic debridement unless mechanical internal derangement can be documented. There are, however, several specific lesions of arthrosis which respond well to arthroscopic intervention and are reimbursed by third party payers. Arthroscopic three compartment microfracture with non-weight bearing and passive motion for eight weeks post- op has significantly relieved symptoms. Second look biopsies have confirmed type II hyaline cartilage and increased joint interval. Proper patient selection is paramount and guidelines will be discussed. Isolated severe patellofemoral arthrosis with patella subluxation responds to arthroscopic patella lateral facetectomy. Jones has reported significant pain relief up to two years with this excellent option for a difficult patient problem. The technique and results will be presented in detail. Loss of terminal extension in the arthritic knee can accelerate deterioration and force earlier decision for TKA. Parson's third tubercle is an osteophyte that forms just anterior to the ACL insertion on the tibia and is the frequent cause of extension loss. Arthroscopic resection of the tubercle results in increased extension and diminishes the stress concentration assuring better longevity for the native knee. The diagnostic characteristics, resection techniques and results of the Dallas series will be presented

Purpose of Study:. Various techniques have been described and are still used for treating recurrent dislocation of the patella when conservative measures fail. Among them are distal, proximal and combined realignment techniques and lateral releases. Since being shown proof of the biomechanical importance of the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) in patellofemoral instability, the reconstruction of the MPFL has gained in popularity. The objective of this paper is to present a case series with preliminary clinical results using the gracilis tendon to reconstruct the MPFL. Method:. Between 01/07 and 03/11 23 knees in 21 patients underwent reconstruction of the MPFL.4 of these patients had had previous surgery. Preoperatively the Caton Deschamps ratio using plain x-rays was worked out and the TT/TG distance was measured using CT scanning. Using these measurements as a guideline, 7 cases underwent a tibial tubercle transfer as an additional procedure. In 6 of the cases an additional cartilage procedure was required. The technique was simplified using intra-operative x-rays to achieve anatomical tunnel placement. Results:. The Tegner Activity Score was used to evaluate the patients preoperatively and at a minimum of 6 months postoperatively. The scores improved on average from 3,6 to 7,4. One patient had an extensor lag of 10 degrees at 3 months. This had normalised by 6 months. One patient had recurrence of her instability and required a revision MPFL reconstruction using an allograft. One patient had recurrent episodes of patella subluxation but no overt dislocation. Conclusion:. This case series gave good functional results using the Tegner Activity score. The procedure of MPFL reconstruction was effective in stabilising the patellae and in improving the symptoms of patellofemoral instability

We present the ten- to 15-year follow-up of 31 patients (34 knees), who underwent an Elmslie-Trillat tibial tubercle osteotomy for chronic, severe patellar instability, unresponsive to non-operative treatment. The mean age of the patients at the time of surgery was 31 years (18 to 46) and they were reviewed post-operatively, at four years (2 to 8) and then at 12 years (10 to 15). All patients had pre-operative knee radiographs and Cox and Insall knee scores. Superolateral portal arthroscopy was performed per-operatively to document chondral damage and after the osteotomy to assess the stability of the patellofemoral joint. A total of 28 knees (82%) had a varying degree of damage to the articular surface. At final follow-up 25 patients (28 knees) were available for review and underwent clinical examination, radiographs of the knee, and Cox and Insall scoring. Six patients who had no arthroscopic chondral abnormality showed no or only early signs of osteoarthritis on final radiographs; while 12 patients with lower grade chondral damage (grade 1 to 2) showed early to moderate signs of osteoarthritis and six out of ten knees with higher grade chondral damage (grade 3 to 4) showed marked evidence of osteoarthritis; four of these had undergone a knee replacement. In the 22 patients (24 knees) with complete follow-up, 19 knees (79.2%) were reported to have a good or excellent outcome at four years, while 15 knees (62.5%) were reported to have the same at long-term follow-up. The functional and radiological results show that the extent of pre-operatively sustained chondral damage is directly related to the subsequent development of patellofemoral osteoarthritis.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:478–85.

Purpose of the study. To determine the outcome after the Semi-tendinosis tendon was used in reconstruction of the Medial Patella-femoral ligament using a fixed dynamic stabilising structure. Method. The Adductor Magnus tendon insertion at the Adductor tubercle of the medial femoral condyle was used as a dynamic and fixed stabilising point preventing patella subluxation. This is a constant landmark in most patients and eliminates the need to find the isometric stabilisation point of the Medial Patella-femoral ligament. The Semi-tendinosus tendon was routed from its distal tibia attachment through a drill hole in the patella from distal to proximal. It was then transferred sub-vastus around the Adductor Magnus femoral attachment and sutured back onto itself at the inferior patella pole. It was tensioned at 30 degrees of knee flexion. Between 2004 and 2011 forty knees were reconstructed using the Semi-tendinosus tendon combined with an extra-synovial lateral release. All had failed conservative therapy for repeated patella instability. Post-operatively the patients followed a strict rehabilitation protocol. At follow-up the patients were questioned for any symptoms of patella instability or dislocation. Any complications of the surgery were documented. Patients were examined for any signs of patella apprehension or abnormal patella tracking. Results. The male to female ratio was 2:3. The mean age was 26 (range13 to 33). The mean follow- up was 44 months. To date no recurrence of instability was noted. Within as early as 4 weeks post-surgery a reduction of patella apprehension was noted in all patients. 90% of patients were able to return to an active life-style. No serious complications were documented. Conclusion. Transferring Semi-tendinosus around the fixed, dynamic distal insertion point of Adductor Magnus provides good results in the medium term and is a technique that may be combined with distal patella tendon realignment procedures. NO DISCLOSURES

Background. We would like to analyze the risk factors of no thumb test among knee alignment tests during total knee arthroplasty surgery. Methods. The 156 cases of total knee arthroplasty by an operator from October 2009 to April 2010 were analyzed according to preoperative indicators including body weight, height, degree of varus deformity, and patella subluxation and surgical indicators such as pre-osteotomy patella thickness, degree of patella degeneration, no thumb test which was evaluated after medial prepatella incision and before bone resection (1st test), no thumb test which was evaluated with corrective valgus stress (2nd test, J test), and the kind of prosthesis. We comparatively analyzed indicators affecting no thumb test (3rd test). Results. There was no relation between age, sex, and body weight and no thumb test (3rd test). Patellar sulcus angle (p = 0.795), patellar congruence angle (p = 0.276) and preoperative mechanical axis showed no relationship. The 1st no thumb test (p = 0.007) and 2nd test (p = 0.002) showed signifi cant relation with the 3rd no thumb test. Among surgical indicators, pre-osteotomy patella thickness (p = 0.275) and degeneration of patella (p = 0.320) were not relevant but post-osteotomy patellar thickness (p = 0.002) was relevant to no thumb test (3rd test). According to prosthesis, there was no signifi cance with Nexgen (p = 0.575). However, there was signifi cant correlation between Scorpio (p = 0.011), Vanguard (p = 0.049) and no thumb test (3rd test). Especially, Scorpio had a tendency to dislocate the patella, but Vanguard to stabilize the patella. Conclusions. No thumb test (3rd test) is correlated positively with 1st test, 2nd test, and post-osteotomy patella thickness. Therefore, the more patella osteotomy and the prosthesis with high affi nity to patellofemoral alignment would be required for correct patella alignment

Patella subluxation assessed on dynamic MRI has previously been shown to be associated with anterior knee pain. In this MRI study of 60 patients we investigated the relationship between subluxation and multiple bony, cartilaginous and soft-tissue factors that might predispose to subluxation using discriminant function analysis. Patella engagement (% of patella cartilage overlapping with trochlea cartilage) had the strongest relationship with subluxation. Patellae with > 30% engagement tended not to sublux; those with < 30% tended to sublux. Other factors that were associated with subluxation included the tibial tubercle-trochlea notch distance, vastus medialis obliquus distance from patella, patella alta, and the bony and cartilaginous sulcus angles in the superior part of the trochlea. No relationship was found between subluxation and sulcus angles for cartilage and bone in the middle and lower part of the trochlea, cartilage thicknesses and Wiberg classification of the patella. This study indicates that patella engagement is a key factor associated with patellar subluxation. This suggests that in patients with anterior knee pain with subluxation, resistant to conservative management, surgery directed towards improving patella engagement should be considered. A clinical trial is necessary to test this hypothesis

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

We compared the incidence and severity of complications during and after closing- and opening-wedge high tibial osteotomy used for the treatment of varus arthritis of the knee, and identified the risk factors associated with the development of complications. In total, 104 patients underwent laterally based closing-wedge and 90 medial opening-wedge high tibial osteotomy between January 1993 and December 2006. The characteristics of each group were similar. All the patients were followed up for more than 12 months. We assessed the outcome using the Hospital for Special Surgery knee score, and recorded the complications. Age, gender, obesity (body mass index > 27.5 kg/m²), the type of osteotomy (closing versus opening) and the pre-operative mechanical axis were subjected to risk-factor analysis.

The mean Hospital for Special Surgery score in the closing and opening groups improved from 73.4 (54 to 86) to 91.8 (81 to 100) and from 73.8 (56 to 88) to 93 (84 to 100), respectively. The incidence of complications overall and of major complications in both groups was not significantly different (p = 0.20 overall complication, p = 0.29 major complication). Logistic regression analysis adjusting for obesity and the pre-operative mechanical axis showed that obesity remained a significant independent risk factor (odds ratio = 3.23) of a major complication after high tibial osteotomy.

Our results suggest that the opening-wedge high tibial osteotomy can be an alternative treatment option for young patients with medial compartment osteoarthritis and varus deformity.

Aim: To assess the safety and efficacy of a mini-incision surgical (MIS) approach to knee arthroplasty (TKA) compared to a traditional standard approach. Background: TKA through less invasive approaches have become increasingly popular in recent years. These range from smaller skin incisions to the ‘quadriceps-sparing’ procedures. Claims of improved recovery time and other clinical/economic advantages have been tempered by concerns about the safety of such procedures. This study was designed to evaluate any potential advantages of a specific approach (MIS) whilst studying peri-operative, radiological and outcome data to examine procedural safety. Patients and Methods: 80 patients undergoing TKA were randomised to a standard or MIS (mini-midvastus) approach. The latter involved patella subluxation, rather than eversion. The operative, anaesthetic and post-operative treatments were standardised including rehabilitation protocols. Strict discharge criteria were established and independently verified and patients were discharged directly to their homes capable of independent care. Specifically the study evaluated patient demographics, operative time, blood loss and hospital stay. Outcome data including Knee Society Scores, Oxford Knee Scores and SF36 were recorded regularly in the early recovery period and up to 1 year post-operatively. Independent radiological review of implant positioning and alignment was obtained. Results: There were no significant differences in operative time, blood loss, or other intra-operative data. Accelerated discharge was achieved in both groups (compared to historic data), however the length of stay (LOS) was significantly shorter in the MIS patients (mean – 3.5 days compared with 4.4 days in the standard patients). There was no statistical difference in clinical outcome analyses between the groups. Discussion: Less invasive approaches to TKA have been reported over recent years but most studies have been anecdotal comparing patient recovery with historic controls which potentially can exaggerate clinical and economic benefits. Concerns have also been raised regarding the safety of these modified procedures. This study demonstrates a reduction in hospital stay and recovery in all patients as a result of accelerated rehabilitation. The MIS patients benefited from an additional significant reduction length of stay compared to controls with no evidence of compromise in terms of safety or efficacy. Conclusions: This study has demonstrated the safety of the MIS mini-midvastus approach and a clear reduction in hospital length of stay. MIS surgery can offer substantial clinical and economic benefits but procedures must be closely evaluated to ensure equivalent or enhanced outcomes are achieved

Recurrent patellar dislocation is a relatively common disorder in young patients. Historically, treatment options have been based on the underlying disorder predisposing the patient to the dislocation. This has resulted in various soft tissue reefing procedures, patella tendon realignment procedures and boney realignment procedures. Further research has shown that the medial patello-femoral ligament (MPFL) is the primary restraint to lateral patella subluxation and dislocation. Many authors have published their successful treatment of recurrent patella dislocation by reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament. The most widely used is autologous semitendinosis tendon grafts, as well as synthetic materials, and MPFL reconstructions may be combined with boney procedures. Varieties of fixation techniques have been described involving both the patella and femoral sides. We present a technique of MPFL reconstruction using the autologous ipsilateral quadriceps tendon. Our technique avoids the morbidity associated with semitendinosis graft harvesting and the drill holes in, and potential resulting fracture of, the patella. The technique is also simple and is associated with decreased procedure costs. We present the technique and a series of six patients (seven knees) with follow up ranging from eight months to nine years. The average age of patients at the time of surgery 16 to 28 years (mean = 20 years). There have been no redislocations. The median Kujala patellofemoral knee score at follow up was 97 out of 100 (Range 69–100). The results compare very favorably to published results using other techniques. Our technique of reconstructing the MPFL is reliable, produces good results using an objective knee score, and is cost effective. Seventy staff members participated from a potential pool of approximately one hundred staff on duty at the time. Of the seventy staff who participated in this research project a total of three staff members were within 50 mls of the correct amount for each of the three samples. Overall staff were very poor at estimating blood loss. Staff working in the operating theatre, no matter what their affiliation or years of experience, are not accurate when estimating blood loss spilt into a patients bed. A tool that aids in blood loss estimation is a valuable addition to the theatre resource manual

Recurrent patellar dislocation is a relatively common disorder in young patients. Historically, treatment options have been based on the underlying disorder predisposing the patient to the dislocation. This has resulted in various soft tissue reefing procedures, patella tendon realignment procedures and boney realignment procedures. Further research has shown that the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is the primary restraint to lateral patella subluxation and dislocation. Many authors have published their successful treatment of recurrent patella dislocation by reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament. The most widely used is autologous semitendinosis tendon grafts, as well as synthetic materials, and MPFL reconstructions may be combined with boney procedures. Varieties of fixation techniques have been described involving both the patella and femoral sides. We present a technique of MPFL reconstruction using the autologous ipsilateral quadriceps tendon. Our technique avoids the morbidity associated with semitendinosis graft harvesting and the drill holes in, and potential resulting fracture of, the patella. The technique is also simple and is associated with decreased procedure costs. We present the technique and a series of 6 patients (7 knees) with follow up ranging from 8 months to 9 years. The average age of patients at the time of surgery 16–28 years (mean = 20years). There have been no redis-locations. The median Kujala patellofemoral knee score at follow up was 97 out of 100 (Range 69–100). The results compare very favourably to published results using other techniques. Our technique of reconstructing the MPFL is reliable, produces good results using an objective knee score, and is cost effective