Aims. This aim of this study was to analyze the detection rate of rare pathogens in bone and joint infections (BJIs) using metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS), and the impact of mNGS on clinical diagnosis and treatment. Methods. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 235 patients with BJIs who were treated at our hospital between January 2015 and December 2021. Patients were divided into the no-mNGS group (microbial culture only) and the mNGS group (mNGS testing and microbial culture) based on whether mNGS testing was used or not. Results. A total of 147 patients were included in the no-mNGS group and 88 in the mNGS group. The mNGS group had a higher detection rate of rare pathogens than the no-mNGS group (21.6% vs 10.2%, p = 0.016). However, the mNGS group had lower rates of antibiotic-related complications, shorter hospital stays, and higher infection control rates compared with the no-mNGS group (p = 0.017, p = 0.003, and p = 0.028, respectively), while there was no significant difference in the duration of antibiotic use (p = 0.957). In culture-negative cases, the mNGS group had lower rates of antibiotic-related complications, shorter hospital stays, and a higher infection control rate than the no-mNGS group (p = 0.036, p = 0.033, p = 0.022, respectively), while there was no significant difference in the duration of antibiotic use (p = 0.748). Conclusion. mNGS improves detection of rare pathogens in BJIs. mNGS testing reduces antibiotic-related complications, shortens hospital stay and antibiotic use duration, and improves treatment success rate, benefits which are particularly evident in culture-negative cases. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2024;13(8):401–410

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics and outcomes associated with culture-negative limb osteomyelitis patients.

Aims. The primary aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of recruiting and retaining patients to a patient-blinded randomized controlled trial comparing corticosteroid injection (CSI) to autologous protein solution (APS) injection for the treatment of subacromial shoulder pain in a community care setting. The study focused on recruitment rates and retention of participants throughout, and collected data on the interventions’ safety and efficacy. Methods. Participants were recruited from two community musculoskeletal treatment centres in the UK. Patients were eligible if aged 18 years or older, and had a clinical diagnosis of subacromial impingement syndrome which the treating clinician thought was suitable for treatment with a subacromial injection. Consenting patients were randomly allocated 1:1 to a patient-blinded subacromial injection of CSI (standard care) or APS. The primary outcome measures of this study relate to rates of recruitment, retention, and compliance with intervention and follow-up to determine feasibility. Secondary outcome measures relate to the safety and efficacy of the interventions. Results. A total of 53 patients were deemed eligible, and 50 patients (94%) recruited between April 2022 and October 2022. Overall, 49 patients (98%) complied with treatment. Outcome data were collected in 100% of participants at three months and 94% at six months. There were no significant adverse events. Both groups demonstrated improvement in patient-reported outcome measures over the six-month period. Conclusion. Our study shows that it is feasible to recruit to a patient-blinded randomized controlled trial comparing APS and CSI for subacromial pain in terms of clinical outcomes and health-resource use in the UK. Safety and efficacy data are presented. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(7):534–542

Aims

To assess the alterations in cell-specific DNA methylation associated with chondroitin sulphate response using peripheral blood collected from Kashin-Beck disease (KBD) patients before initiation of chondroitin sulphate treatment.

Aims. Is it feasible to conduct a definitive multicentre trial in community settings of corticosteroid injections (CSI) and hydrodilation (HD) compared to CSI for patients with frozen shoulder? An adequately powered definitive randomized controlled trial (RCT) delivered in primary care will inform clinicians and the public whether hydrodilation is a clinically and cost-effective intervention. In this study, prior to a full RCT, we propose a feasibility trial to evaluate recruitment and retention by patient and clinician willingness of randomization; rates of withdrawal, crossover and attrition; and feasibility of outcome data collection from routine primary and secondary care data. Methods. In the UK, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) advises that prompt early management of frozen shoulder is initiated in primary care settings with analgesia, physiotherapy, and joint injections; most people can be managed without an operation. Currently, there is variation in the type of joint injection: 1) CSI, thought to reduce the inflammation of the capsule reducing pain; and 2) HD, where a small volume of fluid is injected into the shoulder joint along with the steroid, aiming to stretch the capsule of the shoulder to improve pain, but also allowing greater movement. The creation of musculoskeletal hubs nationwide provides infrastructure for the early and effective management of frozen shoulder. This potentially reduces costs to individuals and the wider NHS perhaps negating the need for a secondary care referral. Results. We will conduct a multicentre RCT comparing CSI and HD in combination with CSI alone. Patients aged 18 years and over with a clinical diagnosis of frozen shoulder will be randomized and blinded to receive either CSI and HD in combination, or CSI alone. Feasibility outcomes include the rate of randomization as a proportion of eligible patients and the ability to use routinely collected data for outcome evaluation. This study has involved patients and the public in the trial design, dissemination methods, and how to include groups who are underserved by research. Conclusion. We will disseminate findings among musculoskeletal clinicians via the British Orthopaedic Association, the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, the Royal College of Radiologists, and the Royal College of General Practitioners. To ensure wide reach we will communicate findings through our established network of charities and organizations, in addition to preparing dissemination findings in Bangla and Urdu (commonly spoken languages in northeast London). If a full trial is shown to be feasible, we will seek additional National Institute for Health and Care Research funding for a definitive RCT. This definitive study will inform NICE guidelines for the management of frozen shoulder. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(3):162–173

Aims

The Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOxFQ) is an anatomically specific patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) currently used to assess a wide variety of foot and ankle pathology. It consists of 16 items across three subscales measuring distinct but related traits: walking/standing ability, pain, and social interaction. It is the most used foot and ankle PROM in the UK. Initial MOxFQ validation involved analysis of 100 individuals undergoing hallux valgus surgery. This project aimed to establish whether an individual’s response to the MOxFQ varies with anatomical region of disease (measurement invariance), and to explore structural validity of the factor structure (subscale items) of the MOxFQ.

Necrotizing soft tissue infection (NSTI) is a rapidly progressive infection that typically starts in the dermis and epidermis and spreads along soft tissue planes, penetrating subdermal layers and can lead to massive tissue necrosis resulting in severe morbidity and mortality. The aim of this case series was to describe the epidemiology and burden of NSTI's at a District Hospital servicing a South African urban settlement. This retrospective case series was performed at a single centre. Consecutive patients were identified following a clinical diagnosis for NSTI. Further laboratory pre-operative work up was standardized including: use of validated Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis (LRINEC scores) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) status. All patients who underwent surgical debridement were captured on the Theatre Database (. www.medwebtools.org™. ). All patients received standardized perioperative, intra-operative and post-operative protocols for antibiotics, debridement and soft tissue closure or cover based on the severity of disease. Medical records, theatre notes, National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) results and radiological results were captured for every patient. 28 patients (14 male, 14 female) presented with NSTI over a 3 year period (2021–2023). The mean age was 39.5 years. The most common organisms cultured were Streptococcus pyogenes (10 patients), Staphylococcus aureus (9 patients), Bacillus cereus (3 patients). This retrospective case series is an important study because it demonstrates some of the highest incidence of NSTI globally; however, the cause of this is yet to be determined. Our results show that having a high clinical index of suspicion; using the LRINEC score to assess severity and using a standardized antibiotic and peri-operative protocol with early soft tissue cover that NSTI's can be managed effectively with a reduction in patient morbidity and overall length of hospital stay

Medical Genetics is a transversal discipline with the potential to impact on every specialty and subspecialty in medicine and the allied health sciences. The completion of the human genome project resulted in technical advancements in genomics, genomic testing and our understanding of genetic disorders in general. These advancements have greatly enhanced our understanding of the role of genetics in Orthopaedic practice, with respect to both monogenic and complex disorders. Tygerberg Hospital is currently the only state hospital in South Africa to support genetic testing in the form of gene panels as part of routine care. This is complemented by more comprehensive research testing in the form of exome and genome sequencing as part of the Undiagnosed Disease Programme. We audit the genetic and genomic testing done on patients referred from the Orthopaedic clinic over a period of 3 years (2020–2022) and review diagnostic rates and interesting results. The largest group of patients referred (n=50) had a clinical diagnosis of osteogenesis imperfecta (OI). A 100% diagnostic yield was achieved for these patients with the identification of recurring variants (FKBP10, COL1A2). Further families (n=20) with much rarer conditions are presented with important implications on the orthopaedic and medical management, prognosis, and genetic counselling for the families. We highlight the impact of genomic testing in the Orthopaedic clinic. Management changes and precision orthopaedic intervention were only possible due to a genetic diagnosis. We motivate for increased access to testing, especially for younger patients presenting with complex orthopaedic phenotypes

The October 2023 Research Roundup³⁶⁰ looks at: Gut microbiota in high-risk individuals for rheumatoid arthritis associated with disturbed metabolome and initiates arthritis by triggering mucosal immunity imbalance; International Consensus on Anaemia Management in Surgical Patients (ICCAMS); Sleep disturbance trends in the short-term postoperative period for patients undergoing total joint replacement; Achilles tendon tissue turnover before and immediately after an acute rupture; Quadriceps or hip exercises for patellofemoral pain? A randomized controlled equivalence trial; Total-body MRI for screening in patients with multiple osteochondromas.

Aims

Achievement of accurate microbiological diagnosis prior to revision is key to reducing the high rates of persistent infection after revision knee surgery. The effect of change in the microorganism between the first- and second-stage revision of total knee arthroplasty for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) on the success of management is not clear.

Abstract. Introduction. There is currently very little evidence which can be used to guide surgeons treating skeletally immature patients with suspected meniscal injury. The aim of our modified Delphi study was to develop comprehensive recommendations for the management of isolated meniscal tears in skeletally immature children. Methodology. An international, two round, modified Delphi consensus was completed. Included ‘experts’ were identified as having an established adult and/or paediatric knee practice and either: 1) Faculty at the international kid's knee meeting, 2) Active member of the complex national paediatric MDT group, or 3) faculty on recognised national course aimed at teaching knee surgeons regarding the management of meniscal lesions. A threshold of 70% was used to identify consensus. Results. A total of 43 experts (Round 1) and 41 experts (Round 2) took part in the Delphi study. Surgeons from the UK, Europe, USA and South America took part. 34 statements were identified exploring 4 main domains – clinical diagnosis, investigation, management and specialist tears. Following round 1 consensus was reached on 17 (50%) statements, subsequently after completion of round 2 consensus was reached on 28 (82%) statements, leaving 6 (18%) with no consensus. Conclusions. This is the first modified delphi consensus which provides evidence for surgeons treating skeletally immature children with isolated meniscal tears. Further studies are required to provide evidence for the areas where no consensus was reached

Aims

To identify the incidence and risk factors for five-year same-site recurrent disc herniation (sRDH) after primary single-level lumbar discectomy. Secondary outcome was the incidence and risk factors for five-year sRDH reoperation.

Aims

Olecranon fractures are usually caused by falling directly on to the olecranon or following a fall on to an outstretched arm. Displaced fractures of the olecranon with a stable ulnohumeral joint are commonly managed by open reduction and internal fixation. The current predominant method of management of simple displaced fractures with ulnohumeral stability (Mayo grade IIA) in the UK and internationally is a low-cost technique using tension band wiring. Suture or suture anchor techniques have been described with the aim of reducing the hardware related complications and reoperation. An all-suture technique has been developed to fix the fracture using strong synthetic sutures alone. The aim of this trial is to investigate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of tension suture repair versus traditional tension band wiring for the surgical fixation of Mayo grade IIA fractures of the olecranon.

The opposable thumb is one of the defining characteristics of human anatomy and is involved in most activities of daily life. Lack of optimal thumb motion results in pain, weakness, and decrease in quality of life. First carpometacarpal (CMC1) osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common sites of OA. Current clinical diagnosis and monitoring of CMC1 OA disease are primarily aided by X-ray radiography; however, many studies have reported discrepancies between radiographic evidence of CMC1 OA and patient-related outcomes of pain and disability. Radiographs lack soft-tissue contrast and are insufficient for the detection of early characteristics of OA such as synovitis, which play a key role in CMC OA disease progression. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and two-dimensional ultrasound (2D-US) are alternative options that are excellent for imaging soft tissue pathology. However, MRI has high operating costs and long wait-times, while 2D-US is highly operator dependent and provides 2D images of 3D anatomical structures. Three-dimensional ultrasound imaging may be an option to address the clinical need for a rapid and safe point of care imaging device. The purpose of this research project is to validate the use of mechanically translated 3D-US in CMC OA patients to assess the measurement capabilities of the device in a clinically diverse population in comparison to MRI. Four CMC1-OA patients were scanned using the 3D-US device, which was attached to a Canon Aplio i700 US machine with a 14L5 linear transducer with a 10MHz operating frequency and 58mm. Complimentary MR images were acquired using a 3.0 T MRI system and LT 3D coronal photon dense cube fat suppression sequence was used. The volume of the synovium was segmented from both 3D-US and MR images by two raters and the measured volumes were compared to find volume percent differences. Paired sample t-test were used to determine any statistically significant differences between the volumetric measurements observed by the raters and in the measurements found using MRI vs. 3D-US. Interclass Correlation Coefficients were used to determine inter- and intra-rater reliability. The mean volume percent difference observed between the two raters for the 3D-US and MRI acquired synovial volumes was 1.77% and 4.76%, respectively. The smallest percent difference in volume found between raters was 0.91% and was from an MR image. A paired sample t-test demonstrated that there was no significant difference between the volumetric values observed between MRI and 3D-US. ICC values of 0.99 and 0.98 for 3D-US and MRI respectively, indicate that there was excellent inter-rater reliability between the two raters. A novel application of a 3D-US acquisition device was evaluated using a CMC OA patient population to determine its clinical feasibility and measurement capabilities in comparison to MRI. As this device is compatible with any commercially available ultrasound machine, it increases its accessibility and ease of use, while proving a method for overcoming some of the limitations associated with radiography, MRI, and 2DUS. 3DUS has the potential to provide clinicians with a tool to quantitatively measure and monitor OA progression at the patient's bedside

Aims

To determine whether platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection improves outcomes two years after acute Achilles tendon rupture.

Purpose of study and background. Spinal surgery is a high-risk surgical speciality, a patient's understanding of surgical interventions, alternative treatment options, and the benefits and risks must be ascertained to gain informed consent. This pilot study aims to evaluate if the provision of a digital recording of a patient's consultation enhances patient satisfaction, improves recall of clinical diagnosis, recall of treatment options and the risks and benefits of Spinal Surgery. Methodology and results. A coalition team was identified. A safe and secure process for recording and storage identified. Both qualitative and quantitative data was collected via questionnaires. 62 patients were invited to participate in the pilot, 12 declined. Data was collected immediately post consultation, and two weeks following the consultation via telephone. Comparison was made of the relative increase or decrease in patient recall of the clinical diagnosis, treatment options, and the benefits and the risks of spinal surgery. Patient satisfaction was measured pre- and post- consultation. 50 patients (81%) participated. 32 participants (52%) responded to follow up questionnaire at 2 weeks. Recall of risk for surgical intervention increased by 37%, and of benefit by 36%. Patient satisfaction was rated excellent or very satisfied in 93% at initial consultation and at 2 week follow up all participant's rated satisfaction as excellent or very satisfied. Conclusion. This pilot study was small. COVID delayed further recruitment. Initial outcomes demonstrated high levels of patient satisfaction and appear to demonstrate improved recall. Significant technological issues were identified. Further collaborative work needs to be undertaken. Conflicts of interest: No conflicts of interest. Sources of funding: No funding obtained

Aims

This study evaluated the definitions developed by the European Bone and Joint Infection Society (EBJIS) 2021, the International Consensus Meeting (ICM) 2018, and the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) 2013, for the diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI).

Aims

To compare the cost-utility of removable brace compared with cast in the management of adult patients with ankle fracture.

Research into COVID-19 has been rapid in response to the dynamic global situation, which has resulted in heterogeneity of methodology and the communication of information. Adherence to reporting standards would improve the quality of evidence presented in future studies, and may ensure that findings could be interpreted in the context of the wider literature. The COVID-19 pandemic remains a dynamic situation, requiring continued assessment of the disease incidence and monitoring for the emergence of viral variants and their transmissibility, virulence, and susceptibility to vaccine-induced immunity. More work is needed to assess the long-term impact of COVID-19 infection on patients who sustain a hip fracture. The International Multicentre Project Auditing COVID-19 in Trauma & Orthopaedics (IMPACT) formed the largest multicentre collaborative audit conducted in orthopaedics in order to provide an emergency response to a global pandemic, but this was in the context of many vital established audit services being disrupted at an early stage, and it is crucial that these resources are protected during future health crises. Rapid data-sharing between regions should be developed, with wider adoption of the revised 2022 Fragility Fracture Network Minimum Common Data Set for Hip Fracture Audit, and a pragmatic approach to information governance processes in order to facilitate cooperation and meta-audit. This editorial aims to: 1) identify issues related to COVID-19 that require further research; 2) suggest reporting standards for studies of COVID-19 and other communicable diseases; 3) consider the requirement of new risk scores for hip fracture patients; and 4) present the lessons learned from IMPACT in order to inform future collaborative studies.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2022;11(6):342–345.