Background

Doubt has been cast over the accuracy of dermatome charts. This study investigated a large group of patients with known lumbar nerve root compression (NRC), and identified whether their radicular pain corresponded with the predicted distribution on a dermatome chart.

Six week old male Sprague-Dawley rats were administered intravenous clozapine, quetiapine, haloperidol or vehicle once daily for a period of 42 days with access to only high fat diet and their weight was monitored regularly. At the end of the study the rats were killed and the tibiae excised and bone mineral density (BMD) measured with dual X-ray absorptiometry and bone architecture assessed with micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and associated software. Results were subjected to one-way ANOVA and post hoc Dunnetts multiple comparison test.

All treatment groups were compared to control. There were no significant differences in body weight between the different groups at completion of the study. Clozapine treated animals alone showed a significant reduction in bone mineral density (p<0.05) however no differences were seen with haloperidol and quetiapine. Both haloperidol and quetiapine, but not clozapine, treatment showed a significant reduction in the bone to tissue volume ratio (BV/TV) by approximately 23% (p<0.05) and an increase in trabecular number (TbN) by approximately 21% (p<0.05). Trabecular bone architecture parameters for haloperidol and quetiapine, but not clozapine, showed more rod like and disconnected structure as reflected in the increases in structure model index (SMI) of around 15% (p<0.05) and trabecular pattern factor (TbPf) by 22% (p<0.05).

This data demonstrates that in rats receiving a high fat diet, haloperidol and quetiapine have an adverse effect on bone micro-architecture without significant change in whole body bone mineral density.

Clozapine did not affect bony architecture in a significant manner as reported in our earlier study, though bone mineral density was reduced. Reasons for the different effect of clozapine in this study are still uncertain but may be related to the significant weight loss seen at the end point of the previous study. Causes for osteoporosis and increased fracture risk in schizophrenia may include smoking history, malnutrition, limited sun exposure and compliance.

Long term administration of both typical and atypical anti-psychotics may have a negative effect on bone and is a further factor that can influence this risk. An awareness of this relationship is useful in the orthopaedic management of schizophrenic patients.

Techniques for fixation of fractures of the lateral malleolus have remained essentially unchanged since the 1960s, but are associated with complication rates of up to 30%. The fibular nail is an alternative method of fixation requiring a minimal incision and tissue dissection, and has the potential to reduce the incidence of complications.

We reviewed the results of 105 patients with unstable fractures of the ankle that were fixed between 2002 and 2010 using the Acumed fibular nail. The mean age of the patients was 64.8 years (22 to 95), and 80 (76%) had significant systemic medical comorbidities. Various different configurations of locking screw were assessed over the study period as experience was gained with the device. Nailing without the use of locking screws gave satisfactory stability in only 66% of cases (4 of 6). Initial locking screw constructs rendered between 91% (10 of 11) and 96% (23 of 24) of ankles stable. Overall, seven patients had loss of fixation of the fracture and there were five post-operative wound infections related to the distal fibula. This lead to the development of the current technique with a screw across the syndesmosis in addition to a distal locking screw. In 21 patients treated with this technique there have been no significant complications and only one superficial wound infection. Good fracture reduction was achieved in all of these patients. The mean physical component Short-Form 12, Olerud and Molander score, and American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Foot and Ankle outcome scores at a mean of six years post-injury were 46 (28 to 61), 65 (35 to 100) and 83 (52 to 99), respectively. There have been no cases of fibular nonunion.

Nailing of the fibula using our current technique gives good radiological and functional outcomes with minimal complications, and should be considered in the management of patients with an unstable ankle fracture.

The reinfusion of perioperative cell salvage is one method employed to reduce exposure to donor blood. Data on the safety of this process, however, are scant. Notably, the effect of intraoperative, washed cell salvage reinfusion on prothrombotic markers has not been demonstrated. The risk of postoperative venous thromboembolism following major orthopaedic operations is not insignificant. The study objective was to assess the effect of cell salvage reinfusion on coagulation and platelet activation.

Twenty-one patients undergoing elective primary hip operations were recruited. Nine patients received washed cell salvage intraoperatively, and were compared with 12 patients undergoing similar surgery that did not. Two patients in the cell salvage group also received postoperative, unwashed cell salvage. Blood samples were collected pre-operatively, immediately post-operatively, and one day post-operatively for assays of platelet activation markers, P-selectin expression and fibrinogen binding by flow cytometry in diluted whole blood; coagulation activation marker, thrombin-antithrombin complex (TAT); D-dimer by ELISA, thrombin generation by chromogenic assay, and full blood count. Samples of cell salvage material were also analysed for prothrombotic markers.

There were no significant differences between the groups preoperatively. Postoperatively haemoglobin levels did not differ significantly between the cell salvage group and controls. Postoperative TAT and D-dimer were significantly higher in the cell salvage group compared with controls (p<0.05). One day postoperatively, there were significantly higher platelet P-selectin expression (p=0.006) and platelet fibrinogen binding (p=0.004) in the cell salvage group compared with controls. The white cell count (WCC) was also significantly higher (p=0.04). In the intraoperative washed cell salvage material, and in postoperative cell salvage, the platelet count was low, but significant proportions of platelets were activated, and levels of D-dimer were elevated compared with venous blood. The postoperative salvage material also contained high levels of TAT.

The results from this pilot study show the induction of a prothrombotic state following reinfusion of intraoperative, washed cell salvage in recipients undergoing primary elective hip operations. An inflammatory response to reinfusion is also indicated by the raised WCC. Further investigation into the safety of cell salvage is indicated.

TKA (Total Knee Arthroplasty) is a successful operation. Soft tissue problems with TKA are difficult to treat. Flap surgery is successful in treating this problem and salvaging the prostheses. We present results of flap surgery for complicated TKAs over a ten year period, performed by a single surgeon.

Between 1996 and 2005, 31 patients (32 knees) underwent flap surgeries for TKAs. Four of these procedures were done prophylactically in patients with previous knee surgeries. Gastrocnemius, medial fasciocutaneous and anterior compartment flaps were used either solely or in combination based on the size of the defect. The data was collected retrospectively from case-notes and correspondence from the treating orthopaedic surgeons. All the knees included in the study had a minimum follow up of 6 months.

The patients were aged between 50 and 94 years. Indication for primary TKA was osteoarthritis in 26 patients and rheumatoid arthritis in 5. The index orthopaedic surgery was a primary knee arthroplasty in 14 and revision in 13. The average duration between the TKA and flap surgery was 11 weeks (range 1 – 52). Gastrocnemius was the most commonly used local flap (17 cases). Anterior compartment flap was used in 5 cases and in the rest combination of flaps was used. Coagulase -ve Staph. aureus was the most commonly isolated organism from the perioperative wound swabs. Successful soft tissue cover was achieved in 29 of 32 knees (92%). Overall, TKA was salvaged in 23 of 32 knees (72%) and 3 knees (9.7%) underwent arthrodesis. Three (9.7%) patients had above knee amputation, two of these had post op MRSA infection. We could not use a functional knee scoring system due to inadequate information available.

We conclude local flap surgery is a viable and successful procedure for providing soft tissue cover for complicated TKAs with good results.

Shoulder pain represents a significant burden of disease in the general population, yet there is a lack of evidence about the effectiveness of routinely used interventions. Current management of ‘painful arc’ of the shoulder in Primary Care is not evidence-based.

Over a six-month period patients with ‘painful arc’ of less than six months duration were recruited via their GPs. Eligible patients were consented to enter the trial and were then randomised, by sealed envelopes, to one of four arms of the study: control (normal analgesia and/or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication), a specified and repeatable Exercise and Manual Therapy Package (EMTP), a course of up to three subacromial steroid injections or both the EMTP and the steroid injections. The interventions and clinic follow-ups were over an 18-week period. A final postal questionnaire was sent out at one year. The progress of the patients was monitored using the Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS) and the SF36 general health questionnaire.

Seventy-nine GPs referred 186 patients, of whom 112 were randomised (Control=27, EMTP=29, Injections=28, Both=28). 64 patients were female and 48 male. The mean age was 54.5 years (range 23-88 years). Ninety patients completed the trial (Control=20, EMTP=22, Injections=26, Both=22). Sixty-two returned the follow-up questionnaire.

By paired sample t-tests, no significant differences were found between the OSS scores or SF-36 (physical health total) at the beginning and end of the intervention period, or at one year, in any group. There were no differences in changes in scores between groups. Two patients in the injection group went on to surgery, along with one each in the control and EMTP groups.

We have found no significant differences in outcome between steroid injections, a physiotherapy package, both treatments, or symptomatic treatment in our group of patients presenting with symptoms of painful arc of the shoulder.

Patients with spinal cord injuries have been seen to have increased healing of attendant fractures. This for the main has been a clinical observation with laboratory work confined to rats. While the benefits in relation to quicker fracture healing are obvious, this excessive bone growth (heterotopic ossification) also causes unwanted side effects, such as decreased movement around joints, joint fusion and renal tract calculi. However, the cause for this phenomenon remains unclear.

This paper evaluates two groups with spinal column fractures – those with neurological compromise (n=10) and those without (n=15), and compares them with a control group with isolated long bone fractures (n=12). Serum was taken from these patients at five specific time intervals post injury (1 day, 5 days, 10 days, 42 days (6 weeks) and 84 days (12 weeks)). These samples were then analysed for levels of Transforming Growth Factor-Beta (TGF-β using the ELISA technique. This cytokine has been shown to stimulate bone formation after both topical and systemic administration.

Results show TGF-β levels of 142.79+/-29.51 ng/ml in the neurology group at 84 days post injury. This is higher than any of the other time points within this group (p=0.009 vs. all other time points, ANOVA). Furthermore, this level is also higher than the levels recorded in the no neurology (103.51+/-36.81 ng/ml) and long bone (102.28=/-47.58 ng/ml) groups at 84 days post-injury (p=0.009 and p=0.04 respectively, ANOVA).

In conclusion, the results of this work, carried out for the first time in humans, offers strong evidence of the causative role of TGF-β in the increased bone turnover and attendant complications seen in patients with acute spinal cord injuries.

Introduction

Previous work(1) has suggested that Spectral Colour Mapping (SCM) may have potential as an objective measurement tool for analysing Electromyography (EMG) data from spinal muscles, but the production and analysis of these maps is a complex undertaking. It would be beneficial for a system to create these maps and be useable with a minimum of training.

Background: Psychosocial factors are well-known contributors to the suffering and disability associated with common musculoskeletal problems. How to identify salient obstacles to recovery or return to work, and how to manage them effectively remains difficult. This project interpreted the evidence base and presented it as solution-focused guidance for everyday practical use by the key players (clinicians, employers, funders, case managers, etc) to help people remain active and working.

Methods and Results: Two methods were used to identify evidence and practical advice, and synthesize this into use-able statements:

existing reviews;

An extended conceptual development of a ‘flags framework’, based on the earlier approach of Yellow Flags, was used to prepare an easily understood and pragmatic approach. The framework integrates obstacles related to the person (yellow flags), the workplace (blue flags) and the context (black flags). A full-colour 32-page document suitable for distribution as both print and electronic media was developed. This contains a clear explanation of how to identify psychosocial flags, how to develop a plan to address them effectively, and how to take action to overcome the obstacles. Poster-style summaries for clinicians, the workplace, and the individual are included, and are available for download. International consultation was used to ensure system-independent applicability and language.

Conclusion: The new document provides practical guidance on identifying and managing psychosocial issues relevant to common musculoskeletal problems based on the latest evidence and conceptual approaches.

Conflict of Interest: none

Sources of Funding: Society for Back Pain Research, Faculty of Occupational Medicine, BackCare, Transport for London, Royal Mail, HCML, TSO

Background: Low back pain (LBP) can affect work ability. Retention of employment relies on appropriate management by employer and employee, and the healthcare that the employee may access. Healthcare in the UK has historically not been work-focused. The UK government has directed the NHS to play a greater role in enabling people with health conditions to remain in work.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to explore patients’ experiences of healthcare interventions regarding the management of work problems due to LBP.

Method: Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with twenty-five LBP patients who had been referred for multidisciplinary back pain rehabilitation. All were in employment and concerned about their ability to work with LBP.

Findings: Although the participants had received a range of healthcare interventions, these had failed to alleviate their concerns about working with LBP. There was little evidence of work-related advice or interventions provided by any of the clinicians treating the participants. In a number of cases, patients had remained at work despite the recommendations they had received. Clinicians depended on the patient as an information channel rather than creating opportunities for ‘stakeholder’ dialogue and joint problem-solving.

Conclusions: Healthcare professionals need to improve their ability to explain the nature of persistent and recurrent LBP and to explore their patients’ concerns about working with pain. They should take more active steps to address those concerns, e.g. by communicating directly with employers where necessary, by advising patients how to address actual or perceived negative attitudes at work, and how to access modifications if required.

Conflicts of Interest: None

Source of Funding: Arthritis Research Campaign

The ideal acetabular component is characterised by reliable, long-term fixation with physiological loading of bone and a low rate of wear. Trabecular metal is a porous construct of tantalum which promotes bony ingrowth, has a modulus of elasticity similar to that of cancellous bone, and should be an excellent material for fixation.

Between 2004 and 2006, 55 patients were randomised to receive either a cemented polyethylene or a monobloc trabecular metal acetabular component with a polyethylene articular surface. We measured the peri-prosthetic bone density around the acetabular components for up to two years using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry.

We found evidence that the cemented acetabular component loaded the acetabular bone centromedially whereas the trabecular metal monobloc loaded the lateral rim and behaved like a hemispherical rigid metal component with regard to loading of the acetabular bone. We suspect that this was due to the peripheral titanium rim used for the mechanism of insertion.

The purpose of this prospective study was to determine the predictive factors and hence optimal management of closed uncomplicated proximal radial fractures. We examined all patients presenting to our unit over an 18-month period with isolated closed proximal radial fractures. 237 consecutive patients were included. Demographic data, physical examination, radiographs, treatment and complications were recorded. Patients were reviewed at 2, 6, 12, 26 and 52 weeks post injury. Outcome was determined via functional assessment and Mayo Elbow Score (MES). Data were analysed using SPSS.

There were 156 (66%) radial head fractures and 81 (34%) radial neck fractures. 225 (95%) patients were treated non-operatively in a collar and cuff for one week followed by physiotherapy. 12 (5%) patients required primary surgical intervention due to either a mechanical block to forearm rotation (n=4) or a significant degree of radiographic comminution and/or displacement (n=8). Of the 201 patients who attended follow-up, 183 (91%) patients achieved excellent or good functional results measured on the MES. 155 (78%) patients achieved this by six weeks, with an average flexion arc of 125 degrees. Of the 12 patients treated operatively, the average MES at six weeks was fair (60). Regression analysis showed that increasing age, the AO-OTA fracture classification (B2.3, C2.3), radiographic displacement and operative treatment were significant predictors of a fair or poor outcome at six weeks.

The majority of isolated proximal radial fractures can be treated non-operatively with early mobilization, achieving excellent or good results within 6 weeks. Age, fracture classification, radiographic displacement and treatment choice are important factors that determine speed of recovery.

Introduction: The Rhys-Davies exsanguinator is a commonly used tool for exsanguinating upper or lower limbs in orthopaedic surgery. The use of same exsanguinators on a repetitive basis can cause cross contamination. This study was aimed at looking at the contamination of the Rhys-Davies exsanguinators in our hospital and comparing the results after cleaning it with a disinfectant wipe.

Materials and Methods: We used two standard methods to measure the contamination levels of the Rhys-Davies exsanguinators. In first method, we used rapid microbial ATP bioluminescence assay to detect contamination before and after cleaning of these exsanguinators. We did this test at four specified sites (outer top, outer bottom, inside top and inside bottom) after clearly marking them. Our second method was taking samples and using standard agar plates from the 24 sites of these 6 Rhys-Davies exsanguinators. We repeated the assay as well the swabs from all the sites, after cleaning these exsanguinators with Sani Cloth 70 Alcohol Wipes. We incubated these samples at 37 deg cel for 48 hours and kept them in enrichment cultures for 7 days.

Results: All sampled Rhys-Davies exsanguinators were heavily contaminated as revealed by both the methods. On bioluminescence assay, in some exsanguinators the count was 100 times more than normal (acceptable value is 30). Similarly all exsanguinators were colonised with bacterial count varying from 8 to > 350. Coagulase negative staphylococcus was the most commonly grown organism from the exsanguinators. After cleaning these tourniquets with Sani Cloth Wipes, there was 95% reduction in bioluminescence assay and 99% reduction in contamination from colony growth point of view, which is statistically significant (P=0.02).

Conclusion: Nine percent of hospital in-patients are believed to acquire an infection after their admission to hospital. Different organisms can raise different levels of concerns. Coagulase negative Staphylococcus from a skin swab is normal but it can be a major source for surgical site infections. The presence of any number of such organisms around a surgical site can be worrying. The presence of a single colony of other pathogenic organisms such as MRSA, Coliforms or Pseudomonas can be alarming if found on these devices. This study suggests that mechanical decontamination by cleaning with sani cloth wipes, then leaving it to dry completely for 15 minutes might reduce the level of contamination of these devices. Use of rapid R-mATP assay has added strength to our study as it requires only 5 min to complete, including sampling. This screening method can be used randomly to check whether protocols are being properly followed, regarding decontamination of such devices.

Introduction: Subtle deformity of the hip joint may cause osteoarthritis. In femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), cam deformities damage acetabular cartilage. Whether surgical removal of cam lesions halts progression is unknown. Sensitive, non-invasive assays of chondral damage are required to evaluate early treatment efficacy.

Delayed gadolinium-enhanced MRI of cartilage (dGEMRIC) permits inference of glycosaminoglycan (GAG) distribution. We aimed to determine whether hips with cam deformities have altered GAG content, using dGEMRIC.

Methods: Subjects were recruited from a prospective cohort study. All were clinically and radiographically assessed. Hips with a normal joint space width (> 2.5mm) were eligible for dGEMRIC. 32 Hips (18 male, 14 female, mean age 51.7 years, none of whom had been investigated for hip pain) with (n=21) and without (n=11) cam deformities were scanned.

2 regions of interest (ROI) were studied:

acetabular cartilage from 12 to 3 O’Clock (T1-Index-acet).

The average of all pixels within the given ROI defined the T1-index.

For each hip, the ratio of the GAG content T1-Index-acet/T1-Indextotal was calculated. Mean T1-Indexto-tal and T1-Indexacet/T1-Indextotal were compared.

Results: T1-Indextotal were similar (689ms v 700ms, p=0.79) but T1-Indexacet/T1-Indextotal was lower in cam hips (0.93 v 1.01, p=0.017), indicating localised depletion of GAG content. Cam hips with positive clinical signs had lower T1-Indextotal than cam hips without (629ms v 717ms, p=0.055), and non-cam hips (629ms v 722ms, p=0.049).

Discussion: Cam hips have lower GAG content of their anterosuperior acetabular cartilage. dGEMRIC identified more generalised disease in cases with positive clinical findings. Ratios of GAG content for specific ROIs enable mapping of chondral damage. This may aid understanding of early disease mechanisms, track progression, and facilitate assessment of the efficacy of surgical procedures.

Introduction: The ideal acetabular component has low wear, permanent fixation and physiological bone loading. Recently trabecular metal has been promoted as reproducing the modulus of trabecular bone with a cementless fixation. The aim of this trial was to see if a monobloc trabecular backed polyethylene acetabular component loaded the pelvis physiologically as a cemented polyethylene component.

Method: Between 2004 and 2006 54 patients were ran-domised to a cemented polyethylene acetabular component versus a monobloc trabecular backed polyethylene acetabular component. The primary outcome measurement was bone density in peri-prosthetic acetabular regions of interest measured preoperatively and post operatively at 6 weeks and 1 year. Secondary outcomes measured were radiographic and functional outcomes (HHS and Oxford score).

Results: Radiographically 8 patients in the trabecular group had a significant gap in zone II which resolved in 6 by 1 year. The cemented group had 3 patients with a radiolucent line (zone 1) at 1 year. HHS and OXFORD scores improved with no significant difference between the groups. Both groups had significant loss of bone density in the ilium and ischium. The trabecular group produced a significant increase in bone density in the superolateral region. The cemented group produced increased bone density in the superomedial region.

Discussions and Conclusions: There is a significant reduction in BMD for both groups in the upper pelvis and ischium in keeping with finite element modelling predictions. The press-fit group relative to the cemented group resulted in decreased BMD in the superomedial peri-prosthetic region. The trabecular monobloc cup therefore behaves more like a rigid cementless shell despite the properties of trabecular metal.

Purpose: To determine if early MRI diagnosis in the acutely injured knee affects management, use of resources and patient satisfaction compared to conventional management with physiotherapy.

Methods: Patients referred to fracture clinic with acute knee injury in whom a specific clinical diagnosis could not be made were randomised to one of two groups. The MRI group had a scan within 2 weeks and were then reassessed in clinic with management according to the results. The control group received physiotherapy and then reassessed. Patients were assessed in clinic on presentation, at 2 weeks and then by a telephone questionnaire at 3 months. Electronic medical records were also reviewed.

Results: 48 patients were recruited in total: 23 in the MRI group (78.2% male, 21.8% female) and 25 in the control group (68% male, 32% female). The mean age was similar in the two groups (29 years (range 18–61) vs. 30 years (18–50)). The MRI group had significantly less physiotherapy appointments (5 ± 3.42 vs. 2.52 ±1.93, p=0.003) on average until definitive treatment but not outpatient appointments (2.72 ± 1.1 vs. 2.43 ±0.66, p=0.27). Median time to surgery was less in the MRI group (138 (31–199) vs.180 days (33–826) vs.) but not statistically significant (p=0.19). A similar number of patients returned to work in both groups (82.6% vs. 76%) but the MRI group had less time off work (15.82 ±22.26 vs. 20.56 ±25.38 days, p=0.48) and statistically better satisfaction scores (2 ±2.68 vs. 3.5 ±2.75, p=0.048) than the control group.

Conclusion: We have shown that early MRI in acute knee injury can provide early diagnosis of internal derangement and therefore allow targeted treatment. These patients had significantly less physiotherapy appointments and less time off work which may offset the cost of the MRI. Moreover these patients were significantly more satisfied with the service.

We carried out a retrospective review of 47 intra-articular fractures of the calcaneum treated by open reduction and internal fixation in 45 patients by a single surgeon between 1993 and 2001. The fractures were evaluated before operation by plain radiographs and a CT scan using Sanders’ classification. Osteosynthesis involved a lateral approach and the use of the AO calcaneal plate. The mean follow-up was for ten years (7 to 15). Clinical assessment included the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Score (AOFAS), the Creighton-Nebraska Score, the Kerr, Prothero, Atkins Score and the SF-36 Health Questionnaire. The radiological evaluation consisted of lateral and axial views of the os calcis. Arthritic changes in the subtalar joint were assessed with an internal oblique view and were graded using the Morrey and Wiedeman scale.

There were 18 excellent (38.3%), 17 good (36.2%), three fair (6.3%) and nine poor (19.2%) results. Five patients had a superficial wound infection and five others eventually had a subtalar arthrodesis because of continuing pain. Restoration of Böhler’s angle was associated with a better outcome. The degree of arthritic change in the subtalar joint did not correlate with the outcome scores or Sanders’ classification. Prompt osteosynthesis should be considered for intra-articular fractures of the calcaneum in order to restore the shape of the hindfoot and Böhler’s angle.

Purpose: Bone grafting of subchondral voids during ORIF of tibial plateau fractures is commonly performed. The efficacy of various graft materials to resist post-operative articular displacement and stimulate bone regeneration in the grafted zone, remains largely unstudied. Studies in animals with a new composite material have shown that this composite material leads to greater bone formation and stronger bone versus autograft at 13 and 26 weeks. This study was designed to determine whether this material helps resist articular fragment displacement and leads to stronger bone regeneration and better functional outcome in the treatment of tibial plateau fractures.

Methods: Thirty four patients with unilateral tibial plateau fractures (OTA 41A-B), were enrolled in a prospective multicenter single cohort study. The treatment protocol included ORIF and defect augmentation with a composite bone graft substitute (PRODENSE®, Wright Medical Technology). Reduction and bone formation was evaluated and followed with both plain radiographs and CT scans obtained immediately postop and at 12 and 24 weeks. Functional outcome was assessed using the SMFA scores. CT analysis was performed by an independent musculoskeletal radiologist who quantified maintenance of reduction of the articular surface and bone density within the grafted area.

Results: Eighteen of the 34 enrolled patients were eligible for follow-up at 24 weeks (sixteen were not yet eligible for the 24 week time point). Mean change in articular reduction was 0.75mm, Density measures in the region of the initial subchondral void decreased from a mean of 1400 Hounsfield units at baseline (immediately post-op) to 600 at 24 weeks, suggesting bone regeneration and normal remodeling. Short form Musculoskeletal Function Assessment activity scores improved from 55.15 (SD=42.8) at baseline to 20.92 (SD=18.09) at 24 weeks. Complications include 1 DVT, 3 infections and 1 cellulitis, all of which resolved. There was an additional infection that required revision of the ORIF.

Conclusions and Significance: Serial CT evaluations revealed maintenance of post-operative reduction with displacement of less than 1mm. Bone density, in the region of the grafted area was near normal and confirms that the composite graft material promotes strong bone regeneration. Functional outcomes improved with time from surgery and approached that of uninjured cohorts.

Purpose and Background: Physiotherapeutic management of lumbar disorders often incorporates specific manual therapy techniques of which McKenzie’s lumbar extension exercises (EIL) and segmental rotational grade V manipulation are popular options. The use of proxy measures of sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activity (skin conductance) is a recognised method of ascertaining neurophysiological responses to physiotherapy treatment but have yet to be used to assess magnitude of response to lumbar techniques. This preliminary study aimed to investigate the neurophysiological effects of these two treatment techniques.

Methodology: A quasi-experimental, independent group’s design was utilised, with random allocation of 50 normal, healthy participants (25 per group) into a manipulation group or an EIL group. Non-invasive neurophysiological measurements of skin conductance were taken as a proxy-measure of sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activity in the lower limbs before, during and after the administration of the techniques. Results were calculated using Area Under the Curve readings and converted into percentage change calculations for the intervention and the post-intervention periods.

Results: Both treatments increased SNS activity during the intervention period, 76% for the manipulation group (p=0.0005) and 35% for EIL group (p=0.0005) with the manipulative technique having significantly greater effect (p=0.012). Further analysis of the manipulation group found no difference between the ‘opening’ and the ‘closing’ side of the technique (p=0.76).

Conclusion: Preliminary evidence now exists supporting the neurophysiological effects of two lumbar techniques and that manipulation has a greater magnitude of effect over the EIL technique. Future research, on a low back pain patient population, is proposed and projected sample size calculations computed.

Introduction: There is controversy regarding the effectiveness of PRC for bone healing. A possible explanation is the different bone graft substitutes (BGSs) used with PRC. Here we investigated the effect of combining different BGSs with PRC on hBMSCs differentiation and growth factor release from the BGS/PRC composites.

Method: hBMSCs, DBM and allograft were prepared from femoral heads donated by patients undergoing total hip replacement. Growth factor release (TGF-â, VEGF, PDGF-AB, BMP-2) was measured by ELISA. The effect of PRC on hBMSC differentiation was determined by ALP activity and mineralisation. PRC was produced using the CAPTION device (S& N) from 10 healthy volunteers.

Results: Combining PRC with BGSs increased hBMSC proliferation (p< 0.05) and decreased ALP activity (p< 0.05) compared to DBM or â-TCP (GenOS, S& N) alone, but had no effect on allograft following 3 and 5 days treatment. After 21 days PRC enhanced mineralisation compared to all BGSs alone (16%–56%). Compared to PRC alone addition of DBM and allograft increased proliferation (p< 0.05), decreased ALP activity (p< 0.005) and decreased mineralisation (p< 0.005). TGF-â, VEGF and BMP-2 release from PRC was unaffected when combined with DBM but PDGF-AB release was reduced by 50%.

Conclusions: Combining PRC with the majority of BGSs enhanced cell proliferation and decreased osteoblastic differentiation at early time points but increased total mineralisation compared to the BGSs alone. However, compared to PRC alone combining DBM or allograft with PRC reduced mineralisation. One potential explanation for the effects of combining PRC with DBM is altered growth factor release profiles compared to the components alone.