Aim:

To measure truncal parameters for patients treated with growing rod systems for early onset scoliosis (EOS).

Introduction:

When having to remove broken or embedded metal implants using high speed burrs, the consequence is often a significant amount of metal debris which becomes embedded in the soft tissues. This may then act as a source for a foreign body inflammatory reaction or as a third body wear in the situation of joint arthroplasty. We describe a simple, cheap and effective method of reducing this debris using only a sterile water-based lubricating gel.

The aim of this study was to determine if a change in antibiotic prophylaxis for routine hip and knee replacement was associated with an increased risk of acute renal impairment.

We identified 238 patients (128 knees and 110 hips) who had received a single prophylactic dose of 1.5 g cefuroxime before joint replacement. We compared them with prospectively collected data from 254 patients (117 knees and 137 hips) who received a single prophylactic dose of 2 g flucloxacillin and a height- and gender-determined dose of gentamicin. The primary outcome measure was any new renal impairment as graded by clinically validated criteria.

We identified four patients (1.69%) in the cefuroxime group who developed renal impairment. All four had mild impairment and all renal function was normal by the third post-operative day. The incidence of new-onset renal impairment was significantly higher in the flucloxacillin-and-gentamicin group at 9.45% (24 patients) (p < 0.001). Three of these patients remained with acute renal impairment after a week, although the serum creatinine levels in all subsequently returned to normal.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:395–8.

This article presents an overview of mycetoma and offers guidelines for orthopaedic surgeons who may be involved in the care of patients with this condition.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:420–5.

Purpose of the Study and Background

With a strong political agenda for change towards patient-centred healthcare, the notion of shared decision-making is reported to substantially improve patient experience, adherence to treatment and health outcomes. In clinical practice however, observational studies have shown shared decision-making is rarely implemented and patient preferences are seldom met.

The aim of this study was to measure the extent of shared decision-making in clinical encounters involving physiotherapists and patients with low back pain.

Introduction

Spinal conditions commonly cause pain and disability. Various non-operative treatments including acupuncture are practiced for these conditions.

Aim

To determine the rate of recurrence of coronal plane deformity in children treated with ‘guided growth’ using 8-plates, from the time of implant removal to skeletal maturity.

Introduction:

Recent published studies have examined the normal dimensions of the syndesmosis on CT. However, previous anatomical studies have shown variations of the articulating facets within the tibialae fibularis and may contribute to the false appearance of increased spacing within the syndesmosis. In this study, we measured and compared anterior and posterior distances of the distal tibiofibular(DTF) syndesmosis on MRI and CT imaging.

Bone loss in the proximal tibia and distal femur is frequently encountered in revision knee replacement surgery. The various options for dealing with this depend on the extent of any bone loss. We present our results with the use of cementless metaphyseal metal sleeves in 103 patients (104 knees) with a mean follow-up of 43 months (30 to 65). At final follow-up, sleeves in 102 knees had good osseointegration. Two tibial sleeves were revised for loosening, possibly due to infection.

The average pre-operative Oxford Knee Score was 23 (11 to 36) and this improved to 32 (15 to 46) post-operatively. These early results encourage us to continue with the technique and monitor the outcomes in the long term.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1640–4.

INTRODUCTION

There is strong current interest to provide reliable treatments for one- and two-compartment arthritis in the cruciate-ligament intact knee. An alternative to total knee arthroplasty is to resurface only the diseased compartments with discrete compartmental components. Placing multiple small implants into the knee presents a greater surgical challenge than total knee arthroplasty, and it is not certain natural knee mechanics can be maintained. The goal of this study was to compare functional kinematics in cruciate-intact knees with either medial unicondylar (mUKA), mUKA plus patellofemoral (mUKA+PF), or bi-unicondylar (biUNI) arthroplasty using discrete compartmental implants with preparation and placement assisted by haptic robotic technology.

Introduction:

Angular mismatch of the modular junction between the head and the trunion has been recognized as a contributing factor to fretting and corrosion of hip prostheses. Excessive angular-mismatch can lead to relative motion at the taper interface, and tribo-corrosion of the head-neck junction secondary to disruption of the passive oxide layer. Although manufacturing standards have been adopted to define acceptable tolerances for taper angles of mating components, recent investigations of failed components have suggested that stricter tolerances or changes in taper design may be necessary to avoid clinical failures secondary to excessive taper wear and corrosion. In this study we examine the effect of angular-mismatch on relative motion between the taper and bore subjected to normal gait load using finite element methods.

This article provides an overview of the role of genomics in sarcomas and describes how new methods of analysis and comparative screening have provided the potential to progress understanding and treatment of sarcoma. This article reviews genomic techniques, the evolution of the use of genomics in cancer, the current state of genomic analysis, and also provides an overview of the medical, social and economic implications of recent genomic advances.

Objectives:

Experimental disruption of the labrum has been shown to compromise its sealing function and alter cartilage lubrication. However, it is not known whether pathological changes to the labrum secondary to femoro-acetabular impingement (FAI) have a similar impact on labral function. This study was performed to determine the effect of natural labral damage secondary to abnormal femoral morphology on the labral seal.

Introduction:

The sealing function of the acetabular labrum is central to the stability of the hip and the health of the joint. Disruption of the labrum has been shown to reduce intra-articular pressure and increase the rate of cartilage consolidation during static loading. Functional activities require movement of the hip through wide ranges of joint motion which disrupt joint congruency, and thus may alter the seal. This study was performed to test the hypothesis that the sealing function of the labrum varies with the position of the hip during functional activities.

Satisfactory primary wound healing following total joint replacement is essential. Wound healing problems can have devastating consequences for patients. Assessment of their healing capacity is useful in predicting complications. Local factors that influence wound healing include multiple previous incisions, extensive scarring, lymphoedema, and poor vascular perfusion. Systemic factors include diabetes mellitus, inflammatory arthropathy, renal or liver disease, immune compromise, corticosteroid therapy, smoking, and poor nutrition. Modifications in the surgical technique are necessary in selected cases to minimise potential wound complications. Prompt and systematic intervention is necessary to address any wound healing problems to reduce the risks of infection and other potential complications.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B, Supple A:144–7.

This study assesses the incidence of noise in ceramic on ceramic (COC) bearings compared to metal on polyethylene (MOP) bearings. Noise after MOP implants has rarely been studied and they never been linked to squeaking.

We have developed a noise characterising hip questionnaire and sent it along with the Oxford Hip Score (OHS) to 1000 patients; 509 respondents, 282 COC and 227 MOP; median age 63.7 (range 45–92), median follow up 2.9 years (range 6–156 months).

47 (17%) of the COC patients reported noise compared to 19 (8%) of the MOP patients (P=0.048). 9 COC and 4 MOP patients reported their hip noise as squeaking. We found the incidence of squeaking in the COC hips to be 3.2% compared to 1.8% in the MOP hips. Overall, 27% patients with noise reported avoiding recreational activities because of it and patient's with noisy hips scored on average 4 points less in the OHS (COC: P=0.04 and MOP: P =0.007).

This is the first study to report squeaking from MOP hip replacements. We therefore believe the squeaking hip phenomenon is not exclusive to hard bearings. Surprisingly, only a small proportion of patients described nose from their as a ‘squeak’. Noisy hip implants may have social implications, and patients should be aware of this. We have shown a relationship between noise and a lower OHS. However, longer follow-up and further study is needed to link noise to a poorly functioning implant.

The cement used for hemiarthroplasties by the authors and many other surgeons in the UK is Palacos® (containing 0.5g Gentamicin). Similar cement, Copal® (containing 1g Gentamicin and 1g Clindamycin) has been used in revision arthroplasties. We aim to investigate the effect on SSI rates of doubling the gentamicin dose and adding a second antibiotic (clindamycin) to the bone cement in hip hemiarthroplasty.

We randomised 848 consecutive patients undergoing cemented hip hemiarthroplasty for fractured NOF into two groups: Group I, 464 patients, received standard cement (Palacos®) and Group II, 384 patients, received high dose, double antibiotic-impregnated cement (Copal®). We calculated the SSI rate for each group at 30 days post-surgery. The patients, reviewers and statistician were blinded as to treatment group.

The demographics and co-morbid conditions were statistically similar between the groups. The combined superficial and deep SSI rates were 5 % (20/394) and 1.7% (6/344) for groups I and II respectively (p=0.01). Group I had a deep infection rate 3.3 %(13/394) compared to 1.16% (4/344) in group II (p=0.082). Group I had a superficial infection rate 1.7 % (7/394) compared to 0.58% (2/344) in group II (p=0.1861). 33(4%) patients were lost to follow up, and 77 (9%) patients were deceased at the 30 day end point.

Using high dose double antibiotic-impregnated cement rather than standard low dose antibiotic-impregnated cement significantly reduced the SSI rate (1.7% vs 5%; p=0.01) after hip hemiarthroplasty for fractured neck of femur in this prospective randomised controlled trial.

To validate the Modified Forgotten Joint Score (MFJS) as a new patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) in hip and knee arthroplasty (THR/TKR) against the UK's gold standard Oxford Hip and Knee Scores (OHS/OKS).

The MFJS is a new assessment tool devised to provide a greater discriminatory power, particularly in well performing patients. It measures an appealing concept; the ability of a patient to forget about their artificial joint in everyday life.

Postal questionnaires were sent out to 400 THR and TKR patients who were 1–2 years post-op. The data collected from the 212 returned questionnaires was analysed in relation to construct and content validity. 77 patients took part in a test-retest repeatability assessment.

The MFJS proved to have an increased discriminatory power in high-performing patients in comparison to the OHS and OKS, highlighted by its more normal frequency of distribution and reduced ceiling effects. 30.8% of patients (n=131) achieved excellent OHS/OKS scores of 42–48 this compared to just 7.69% of patients who achieved a proportionately equivalent MFJS score of 87.5–100. The MFJS proved to have an increased test-retest repeatability based upon its intra-class correlation coefficient of 0.97 compared to the Oxford's 0.85.

The MFJS provides a more sensitive tool in the assessment of well performing hip and knee arthroplasties in comparison to the OHS/OKS. The MFJS tests the concept of awareness of a prosthetic joint, rather than pain and function and therefore should be used as adjunct to the OKS/OHS.

Decreased oxygenation and delayed wound healing may negate the advantages of using a medial parapatellar incision in Total Knee Replacement. Tissue biochemical and blood flow data are not currently available in the literature.

20 patients were included in the study and randomised to midline or medial parapatellar skin incision groups, being supervised by one of 3 Consultant surgeons. Cutaneous blood flow was measured using a Speckle Contrast Blood Perfusion Imager at pre-operative and Days 1 & 3 post-operative intervals. Interstitial fluid measurements for lactate, pyruvate, lactate/pyruvate ratio and glucose were obtained from subcutaneous catheters with a dialysis membrane. Pre-operative samples were obtained from a catheter inserted into the prospective lateral wound edge. A catheter inserted after wound closure supplied dialysates at 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, 12 and 24-hour intervals. One catheter was corrupted on insertion; therefore the patients with biochemical data numbered 19.

Cutaneous blood flow improved over the 3 post-operative days in both types of incision and both sides, the medial retaining comparatively better flow. At Day 3, the parapatellar incision group displayed better flow on both sides of the wound. The concentration of lactate was highest in the parapatellar incision group of patients at all intervals. Pyruvate concentrations did not appear to differ across the incision types. Similarly, glucose concentrations did not appear to differ until after 4 hours, when higher concentrations were recorded in the midline group. Lactate/pyruvate ratio appeared to be notably greater in the parapatellar incision group. Plotting change in blood flow relative to change in lactate concentration demonstrated an increase in lactate as flow deteriorates.

The study findings suggest medial parapatellar incisions have increased anaerobic metabolites due to tissue hypoperfusion. Previous studies have demonstrated decreased oxygen tension in lateral based flaps and more recently the medial to lateral arterial anatomy has been demonstrated.

Many orthopaedic procedures require implants to be trialled before definitive implantation. Where this is required, the trials are provided in a set with the instrumentation. The most common scenario this is seen in during elective joint replacements. In Scotland (2007) the Scottish Executive (http://www.sehd.scot.nhs.uk/cmo/CMO(2006)13.pdf) recommended and implemented individually packed orthopaedic implants for all orthopaedic sets. The premise for this was to reduce the risk of CJD contamination and fatigue of implants due to constant reprocessing from corrosion. During many trauma procedures determining the correct length of plate or size of implant can be challenging. Trials of trauma implants is no longer common place. Many implants are stored in closed and sealed boxes, preventing the surgeon looking at the implant prior to opening and contaminating the device. As a result many implants are incorrectly opened and either need reprocessed or destroyed due to infection control policy, thus implicating a cost to the NHS. With even the simplest implants costing several hundreds of pounds, this cost is a very significant waste in resources that could be deployed else where. My project was to develop a method to produce in department accurate, cheap and disposable trials for implants often used in trauma, where the original manufacturer do not offer the option of a trial off the shelf. The process had to not involve contaminating or destroying the original implant in the production of a trial.

Several implants which are commonly used within Glasgow Royal Infirmary and do not have trials were identified. These implants were then CT scanned within their sealed and sterile packaging without contamination. Digital 3D surface renders of the models were created using free open source software (OsiriX, MeshLab, NetFabb). These models were then processed in to a suitable format for 3D printing using laser sintering via a cloud 3D printing bureau (Shapeways.com). The implants were produced in polyamide PA220 material or in 316L stainless steel. These materials could be serialized using gamma irradiation or ethylene oxide gas. The steel models were suitable for autoclaving in the local CSSU.

The implants produced were accurate facsimiles of the original implant with dimensions within 0.7mm. The implants were cost effective, an example being a rim mesh was reproduced in polyamide PA220 plastic for £3.50 and in 316L stainless steel for £15. The models were produced within 10 days of scanning. The stainless steel trials were durable and suitable for reprocessing and resterilisation.

The production of durable, low cost and functional implant trials all completed in department was successful. The cost of production of each implant is so low that it would be offset if just one incorrect implant was opened during a single procedure. With some of the implants tested, the trials would have paid for themselves 100 times. This is a simple and cost saving technique that would help reduce department funding and aid patient care.

The link between squeaking and ceramic on ceramic (CoC) bearings has been widely reported in orthopaedic literature and is described as a hard bearing phenomenon. We aim to look at the incidence of noise in CoC bearings compared to Metal on Polyethylene (MoP) bearing, which have yet to be linked to squeaking.

We developed a noise characterizing hip questionnaire and sent that along with the Oxford Hip Score (OHS) to 1000 patients; 3:2 ratio of CoC to MoP. 282 CoC patients and 227 MoP patients returned the questions: 509 patients in total. Our patient database provided details on femoral head size and the acetabular inclination angle, for each respondent

47 (17%) of the CoC hip patients reported noise compared to 19 (8%) of the MoP hip patients (P=0.054). 9 CoC patients and 4 MoP patients reported squeaking, while clicking was the most frequent answer in both groups. 27% patients with noise reported avoiding recreational activities because of it. Patient's with noisy hips scored on average, 5 points worse in the OHS (CoC: P = 0.04 and MoP: P = 0.007) and were on average 5 years younger (CoC: P<0.001 and MoP: P=0.007). No correlation was found between noisy hips and femoral head size or inclination angle.

The squeaking hip phenomenon is not exclusive to hard bearing THA. Noise from patient's hips may have social implications and this should be highlighted when consenting a patient for either of these hip procedures. In both implants, we showed there to be a correlation between noise production and a lower OHS. However, longer follow up studies are needed to link noise to a poorly functioning implant

Arthritis of the glenohumeral joint accompanied by an irreparable tear of the rotator cuff can cause severe pain, disability and loss of function, particularly in the elderly population. Anatomical shoulder arthroplasty requires a functioning rotator cuff, however, reverse shoulder arthroplasty is capable of addressing both rotator cuff disorders and glenohumeral deficiencies. The Aequalis Reversed Shoulder Prosthesis design is based on two bio-mechanical principles by Grammont; a medialized center of rotation located inside the glenoid bone surface and second, a 155 degree angle of inclination. Combined, they increase the deltoid lever arm by distalizing the humerus and make the prosthesis inherently stable.

24 consecutive primary reverse total shoulder arthroplasties were performed by a single surgeon for arthritis with rotator cuff compromise and 1 as a revision for a failed primary total shoulder replacement between December 2009 and October 2012. Patients were assessed postoperatively with the use of the DASH score, Oxford shoulder score, range of shoulder motion and plain radiography with Sirveaux score for scapular notching.

Mean age at the time of surgery was 72.5 years (range 59 to 86). Average follow up time was 19.4 months (range 4 to 38). Functional outcome scores from our series were comparable with patients from other follow up studies of similar prosthesis design. All patients showed improvement in range of shoulder movement postoperatively. Complications included one dislocation, one acromion fracture and one humeral shaft fracture. No cases of deep infection were recorded. Overall, the short-term clinical results were promising for this series of patients and indicate reverse shoulder arthroplasty as an appropriate treatment for this group of patients.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of body mass index (BMI) on patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis. Data was collected on 664 patients at 4 centres all of whom received a Depuy PFC Sigma prosthesis. Data collected included patient demographics, Oxford Knee Score (OKS), American Knee Society Score, SF-12, complications of surgery and the need for revision.

14% of patients had a BMI<25, 35% were overweight (BMI-25–30), 32% suffered from Grade 1 obesity (BMI-30–35) and 19% had grade 2 obesity (BMI>35). Obese patients were more likely to be female, have a higher ASA grade, present at a younger age and do sedentary work or no work at all. Pre-operative Oxford knee score was significantly worse in the BMI>35 group (p<0.001).

After surgery there was a significant improvement in functional outcome measures at 5 years post-operatively with all BMI groups improved by an average of 18 or 19 points in the OKS. However because those patients with high BMI have poorer pre-operative Oxford scores their post-operative scores were lower compared to patients with a normal BMI. Similar findings were noted with range of motion of the knee joint.

Overall complication rates were found to be significantly higher in obese patients and both revision surgery and deep infection rates increased stepwise with increasing BMI levels.

Deep Infection rates were as follows: BMI<25 0%, BMI-25–30 1.3%, BMI-30–35 1.4%, BMI-35–40 3.2% and BMI>40 6.1%.

Revision rates were as follows: BMI<25 0%, BMI-25–30 0.9%, BMI-30–35 0.9%, BMI-35–40 3.2% and BMI>40 6.1%.

Although obese patients with knee osteoarthritis do benefit from joint arthroplasty, they suffer from an increased rate of complications and need for revision surgery.

We compared the postoperative wound discharge rates and 3 months clinical results of three types of wound closure and dressing – 2-octylcyanoacrylate with Opstie (G+O), 2-octylcyanoacrylate with Tegaderm (G+T), and Opsite without 2-octylcyanoacrylate (O) in patients having primary total hip arthroplasty.

We randomised 141 patients scheduled for primary total hip arthroplasty into 3 arms of this study- G+O, G+T, or O. The extent of wound discharge was recorded on a diagrammatic representation of the dressing in situ on paper and graded each day. Dressings were left in-situ provided the extent of wound discharge allowed for this. The patient was clinically reviewed at 3 months to assess their scar length, cosmesis, scar discomfort, and evidence of superficial or deep wound sepsis.

A greater number of patients dressings remained dry on day 1 postoperatively in the two groups with 2-octylcyanoacrylate compared to the no glue group p=0.001. G+T group had a significantly lower proportion of patients with increased leakage of wounds on 2^nd postoperative day p=0.044. At 3 months review, there was no statistical difference in the Hollander score or scar discomfort.

In patients who have had primary total hip arthroplasty, usage of 2-octylcyanoacrylate for wound closure along with Tegaderm dressing reduces wound discharge. The same effect is not noted in glue with Opsite group. Whilst dressing changes required in the non-glue group compared from the two glue groups did not reach statistical significance, this may have clinical relevance for patients and nursing staff. No effect on postoperative length of stay, or wound complications was noted.

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been established as a successful procedure for relieving pain and improving function in patients suffering from severe knee osteoarthritis for several decades now. It involves removing bone from both the medial and lateral compartments of the knee and sacrificing one or both of the cruciate ligaments. This in turn is likely to have an impact on the patients' functional outcome. In subjects where only one compartment of the knee joint is affected with osteoarthritis then unicondylar knee arthroplasty (UKA) has been proposed as an alternative procedure to TKA. This operation preserves the cruciate ligaments and removes bone only from the affected side of the joint. As a result there is the possibility of an improved functional outcome post surgery. UKA has been associated with faster recovery, good functional outcome in terms of range of motion and it is bone sparing compared to TKA. However, the biggest obstacle to UKA success is the high failure rates.

The aim of this study was to compare the functional outcome of computer navigated TKA (n=60) and UKA (n=42) patients 12 month post operation using flexible electrogoniometry. Flexible electrogoniometry was used to investigate knee joint kinematics during gait, slopes walking, stair negotiation, and when using standard and low chairs. Maximum, minimum and excursion knee joint angles were calculated for each task.

The biomechanical assessment showed statistically significant improvements in the knee kinematics in terms of maximum (p<0.0004) and excursion (p<0.026) knee joint angles in the UKA patient group compared to the navigated TKA group for each of the functional tasks. There was no statistically significant difference between the minimum knee joint angles during these functional tasks (p>0.05).

Therefore, UKA patients were showed to have a significantly better functional outcome in terms of the maximum knee joint angle during daily tasks. A limitation of this study is that it compares two cohorts rather than two randomised groups. It is expected that UKA patients will have a better functional outcome. Our results suggest that for patients with less severe knee osteoarthritis, UKA may offer a better functional outcome than the more common surgical option of TKA. The recent advancements in computer assisted and robotic assisted knee arthroplasty has the possibility to improve the accuracy of UKA and therefore led to the increase in confidence and in usage in a procedure which has the potential to give patients a superior functional outcome.

In 2012 collagenase Clostridium histolyticum (Xiapex) was approved by the SMC for restricted use for the treatment of Dupuytren's contracture. Xiapex was approved on a case by case basis for patients with a palpable pretendinous cord, giving rise to MCPJ contracture of greater than 30 degrees. As of September 2012 we began to offer Xiapex injections to patients in Ayrshire who enquired about the injection, and met the SMC criteria.

To date injections have been performed on 3 patients, in a total of 7 digits. Patients were assessed prior to injection and manipulation, with the degree of contracture recorded and DASH scores noted. Each patient then underwent a standard injection of 0.58 mg of Xiapex. 48 hours post injection each patient underwent manipulation under local anaesthetic, with contractures remeasured, pain scored using a visual analogue scale and complications noted. Each patient was then reviewed at 4 weeks post injection where the residual degree of contracture was recorded and a further DASH score completed.

Mean contracture at the MCPJ prior to injection was 57° (range 34–80), and mean DASH score of 20.8 (range 16.7–24.2). Following manipulation mean residual contracture at the MCPJ measured 21° (range 18–28). The average pain score following was manipulation was rated at 1.1. Mild bruising and swelling were reported in all cases following injection, and manipulation resulted in 2 minor skin tears. At the 4 week review prolonged improvement of contracture was achieved with a mean residual contracture of 14° (range −2–40); with a significant improvement in DASH scores – mean 0.6 (range 0–1.8)

Despite small numbers, we have found Xiapex injections to be a successful and well tolerated treatment for moderate Dupuytren's disease. Further follow up is required to assess the longevity of the correction and ensure the cost effectiveness of Xiapex.

The aim of this study was to characterise noise associated with ceramic-on-ceramic total hip arthroplasty (THA).

A questionnaire was constructed to assess noise associated with THA. 116 patients responded. All had ceramic-on-ceramic hybrid THA at Glasgow Royal Infirmary between 2005 and 2007 using a Trident prosthesis and Exeter stem. Oxford Hip Questionnaires (OHS) were also completed by the patients.

16.4% of respondents reported noise associated with their ceramic hip. The vast majority reported onset at least 1 year after implantation. The most common noise types were ‘clicking’ (47%) or ‘grinding’ (42%), while ‘squeaking’ was least frequently reported (11%). Noise was most commonly brought on by bending and during sit to stand movements.

No correlation was identified between the incidence of noise and any patient specific factor or demographic variable. The mean OHS at questionnaire follow-up was 39 and there was no significant difference in OHS when comparing noisy and silent hips (p=0.65). Only 1 patient limited social or recreational activities and overall patients felt the noise had minimal effect on their quality of life.

Acetabular component inclination angles were compared on post-operative x-rays. There was no significant difference (p=0.51) in inclination angles of the noisy (47.1°±6.3°, range 30–57°) and silent hips (47.8°±6.1°, range 35–68°). The groups were further analysed for deviation out with the desirable inclination range of 40–45°. Of the noisy hips, a total of 73% were out with this range compared to 63% in the silent hip group.

The incidence of noise within this ceramic-on-ceramic THA group did not appear to be related to patient specific factors, patient reported outcome (OHS) or acetabular inclination angles. Subjective appraisal of the noise revealed that ‘squeaking’ was not common but patients tended to report ‘clicking’ and ‘grinding’ more. The precipitation of noise with bending activities reinforces a possible mechanical cause.

To validate the Modified Forgotten Joint Score (MFJS) as a new patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) in hip and knee arthroplasty against the UK's gold standard Oxford Hip and Knee Scores (OHS/OKS).

The original Forgotten Joint Score was created by Behrend et al to assess post-op hip/knee arthroplasty patients. It is a new assessment tool devised to provide a greater discriminatory power, particularly in the well performing patients. It measures an appealing concept; the ability of a patient to forget about their artificial joint in everyday life. The original FJS was a 12-item questionnaire, which we have modified to 10-items to improve reliability and missing data.

Postal questionnaires were sent out to 400 total hip/knee replacement (THR/TKR) patients who were 1–2 years post-op, along with the OHS/OKS and a visual pain analog score. The data collected from the 212 returned questionnaires (53% return rate) was analysed in relation to construct and content validity. A sub-cohort of 77 patients took part in a test-retest repeatability study to assess reliability of the MFJS.

The MFJS proved to have an increased discriminatory power in high-performing patients in comparison to the OHS and OKS, highlighted by its more normal frequency of distribution and reduced ceiling effects in the MFJS. 30.8% of patients (n=131) scored 42–48 (equivalent to 87.5–100 in the MFJS) or more in the OKS compared to just 7.69% in the MFJS TKR patients. The MFJS proved to have an increased test-retest repeatability based upon its intra-class correlation coefficient of 0.968 compared to the Oxford's 0.845.

The MFJS provides a more sensitive tool in the assessment of well performing hip and knee arthroplasties in comparison to the OHS/OKS. The MFJS tests the concept of awareness of a prosthetic joint, rather than pain and function and therefore should be used as adjunct to the OKS/OHS.

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a significant cause of osteoarthritis in young active individuals but the pathophysiology remains unclear. Increasing mechanistic studies point toward an inflammatory component in OA. This study aimed to characterise inflammatory cell subtypes in FAI by exploring the phenotype and quantification of inflammatory cells in FAI versus OA samples.

Ten samples of labrum were obtained from patients with FAI (confirmed pathology) during open osteochondroplasty or hip arthroscopy. Control samples of labrum were collected from five patients with osteoarthritis undergoing total hip arthroplasty. Labral biopsies were evaluated immunohistochemically by quantifying the presence of macrophages (CD68 and CD202), T cells (CD3), mast cells (mast cell tryptase) and vascular endothelium (CD34).

Labral biopsies obtained from patients with FAI exhibited significantly greater macrophage, mast cell and vascular endothelium expression compared to control samples. The most significant difference was noted in macrophage expression (p<0.01). Further sub typing of macrophages in FAI using CD202 tissue marker revealed and M2 phenotype suggesting that these cells are involved in a regenerate versus a degenerate process. There was a modest but significant correlation between mast cells and CD34 expression (r=0.4, p<0.05) in FAI samples.

We provide evidence for an inflammatory cell infiltrate in femoroacetabular impingement. In particular, we demonstrate significant infiltration of mast cells and macrophages suggesting a role for innate immune pathways in the events that mediate hip impingement. Further mechanistic studies to evaluate the net contribution and hence therapeutic utility of these cellular lineages and their downstream processes may reveal novel therapeutic approaches to the management of early hip impingement.

A retrospective analysis was carried out to determine the influence of pre-existing spinal pathology on the outcome of Total Knee Replacement surgery. Data was collected from 345 patients who had undergone Total Knee Replacement, at four centres in the UK, between 2000 and 2007. Oxford Knee Scores (OKS), American Knee Society Scores (AKSS) and SF-12 questionnaires were recorded prospectively. Data was collected pre-operatively and then post-operatively at 3 months, 1 year and 2 years. Patients were divided into those with (n=40) and without a history of low back pain (n=305). In addition to determining the influence of low back pain on outcome after Total Knee Replacement we also examined the influence of concomitant hip and ankle pathology in the same cohort of patients.

OKS scores were significantly worse for patients with symptomatic low back pain at 3 (p=0.05), 12 (p=0.009) and 24 months (p=0.039) following surgery. SF-12 physical scores followed a comparable pattern with significance demonstrated at 3 (p=0.038), 12 (p=0.0002) and 24 months (p=0.016). AKSS followed a similar pattern, but significance was only reached at 1 year (p=0.013). The mental component of the SF-12 measure demonstrated a significant improvement in patients' mental health post-operatively for patients with no history of low back pain. In contrast patients with low back pain showed no improvement in mental health scores post-operatively.

In contrast to low back pain, hip and ankle pathology had no statistically significant detrimental effect on the outcome of Total Knee Replacement surgery.

This study demonstrates that low back pain significantly affects the functional outcome after Total Knee Replacement surgery and that patients with low back pain show no improvement in mental health post-operatively.

Currently, the cement being used for hemiarthroplasties and total hip replacements by the authors and many other surgeons in the UK is Palacos® (containing 0.5g Gentamicin). Similar cement, Copal® (containing 1g Gentamicin and 1g Clindamycin) has been used in revision arthroplasties, and has shown to be better at inhibiting bacterial growth and biofilm formation. We aim to investigate the effect on SSI rates of doubling the gentamicin dose and adding a second antibiotic (clindamycin) to the bone cement in hip hemiarthroplasty.

We randomised 848 consecutive patients undergoing cemented hip hemiarthroplasty for fractured NOF at one NHS trust (two sites) into two groups: Group I, 464 patients, received standard cement (Palacos®) and Group II, 384 patients, received high dose, double antibiotic-impregnated cement (Copal®). We calculated the SSI rate for each group at 30 days post-surgery. The patients, reviewers and statistician were blinded as to treatment group.

The demographics and co-morbid conditions (known to increase risk of infection) were statistically similar between the groups. The combined superficial and deep SSI rates were 5 % (20/394) and 1.7% (6/344) for groups I and II respectively (p=0.01). Group I had a deep infection rate 3.3 %(13/394) compared to 1.16% (4/344) in group II (p=0.082). Group I had a superficial infection rate 1.7 % (7/394) compared to 0.58% (2/344) in group II (p=0.1861). 33(4%) patients were lost to follow up, and 77 (9%) patients were deceased at the 30 day end point. There was no statistical difference in the 30 day mortality, C. difficile infection, or the renal failure rates between the two groups.

Using high dose double antibiotic-impregnated cement rather than standard low dose antibiotic-impregnated cement significantly reduced the SSI rate (1.7% vs 5%; p=0.01) after hip hemiarthroplasty for fractured neck of femur in this prospective randomised controlled trial.

Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its perceived benefits over total knee replacements, such as greater bone preservation, reduced operating-room time, better postoperative range of motion and improved gait. However there have been failures associated with UKA caused by misalignment of the implants.

To improve the implant alignment a robotic guidance system called the RIO Robotic Arm has been developed by MAKO Surgical Corp (Ft. Lauderdale, FL). This robotic system provides real-time tactile feedback to the surgeon during bone cutting, designed to give improved accuracy compared to traditional UKA using cutting jigs and other manual instrumentation.

The University of Strathclyde in association with Glasgow Royal Infirmary has undertaken the first independent Randomised Control Trial (RCT) of the MAKO system against the Oxford UKA – a conventional UKA used in the UK. The trial involves 139 patients across the two groups.

At present the outcomes have been evaluated for 30 patients. 14 have received the MAKO unicompartmental knee arthroplasty and 16 the Oxford UKA. Both groups were seen 1 year post-operatively. Kinematic data was collected while subjects completed level walking using a Vicon Nexus motion analysis system. Three-dimensional hip, knee and ankle angles were compared between the two arthroplasty groups.

Our initial findings indicate that hip and ankle angles show no significant statistical difference, however there is a significant difference (p < 0.05) in the knee angles during the stance phase of gait. Data shows higher angles achieved by the MAKO group over the Oxford.

It would appear from our early findings that the MAKO RIO procedure with Restoris implants gives at least comparable functional outcome with the conventional Oxford system and may prove once our full sample is available for analysis to produce better stance phase kinematics with a more active gait pattern than the conventional Oxford procedure.

Further work includes analysing the data obtained from the patients in a number of other activities. These include a full biomechanical analysis of ascending and descending a flight of stairs, sit to stand and a deep knee lunge. The high demand/high flexion tasks in particular may reveal if there's an advantage to using the MAKO procedure over the Oxford. If there is a direct correlation between alignment and patient function then this effect could be more significant in the more demanding patient tasks.

Deep surgical infections are a serious complication of total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Various protocols exist for treating these infections, each with its own advocates. In this series we report the one to five year follow-up of infected TKA that were treated with a two-stage revision knee replacement at the Glasgow Royal Infirmary between December 2003 and March 2009.

48 patients were identified from the hospital database. 6 of these were excluded as they did not meet the stipulated infection criteria. Another patient was excluded as no notes were available thereby the infection status could not be determined. Another 8 patients were excluded as these only had a first stage.

33 patients (16 male) average age 67y (49–88) met the inclusion criteria. Mean BMI was of 31.62 (19–47) and 8 patients suffered from rheumatoid arthritis. At presentation, the median for the ESR, CRP and WCC were 70.5, 133 and 8.5 respectively. The infective organism was identified in 22 patients. Following the first stage, the patients were treated with antibiotics (initially intravenous followed by oral) for an average of 11.8 weeks (4–52 weeks). This procedure failed to eliminate the infection in 6 patients (18.18%) who had further re-admissions for infection of the affected prosthesis. The resultant success rate is of over 80% which is comparable to literature data (success rates of 41% to 96% quoted). For these patients, the average time to review was 25.13 months (12–67months). At review these patients had a mean extension of 2.17° (0–10°) and a mean flexion of 98.26 (70–120°). These patients were all satisfied with their outcome.

Our results show a high successful rate of elimination of infection when a two-stage revision is used for infected knee prosthesis with over 80% of patients free of infection.

The piriformis muscle is an important landmark in the surgical anatomy of the hip, particularly the posterior approach for total hip replacement (THR). Standard orthopaedic teaching dictates that the tendon must be cut in to allow adequate access to the superior part of the acetabulum and the femoral medullary canal. However, in our experience a routine THR can be performed through a posterior approach without sacrificing this tendon.

We dissected the proximal femora of 15 cadavers in order to clarify the morphological anatomy of the piriformis tendon. We confirmed that the tendon attaches on the crest of the greater trochanter, in a position superior to the trochanteric fossa, away from the entry point for broaching the intramedullary canal during THR. The tendon attachment site encompassed the summit and medial aspect of the greater trochanter as well as a variable attachment to the fibrous capsule of the hip joint. In addition we dissected seven cadavers resecting all posterior attachments except the piriformis muscle and tendon in order to study their relations to the hip joint, as the joint was flexed. At flexion of 90° the piriformis muscle lay directly posterior to the hip joint.

The piriform fossa is a term used by orthopaedic surgeons to refer the trochanteric fossa and normally has no relation to the attachment site of the piriformis tendon. In hip flexion the piriformis lies directly behind the hip joint and might reasonably be considered to contribute to the stability of the joint.

We conclude that the anatomy of the piriformis muscle is often inaccurately described in the current surgical literature and terms are used and interchanged inappropriately.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:764–9.

Treatment for osteoarthritis (OA) has traditionally focused on joint replacement for end-stage disease. An increasing number of surgical and pharmaceutical strategies for disease prevention have now been proposed. However, these require the ability to identify OA at a stage when it is potentially reversible, and detect small changes in cartilage structure and function to enable treatment efficacy to be evaluated within an acceptable timeframe. This has not been possible using conventional imaging techniques but recent advances in musculoskeletal imaging have been significant. In this review we discuss the role of different imaging modalities in the diagnosis of the earliest changes of OA. The increasing number of MRI sequences that are able to non-invasively detect biochemical changes in cartilage that precede structural damage may offer a great advance in the diagnosis and treatment of this debilitating condition.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:738–46.

Aim

The Pelvic Support Osteotomy (PSO) or Ilizarov Hip Reconstruction(IHR) is well described for the treatment of septic sequelae of infancy. The purpose of this study was to clinically, functionally and radiographically assess our short-term results of this procedure.

Obtaining primary wound healing in Total Joint Arthroplasty (TJA) is essential to a good result. Wound healing problems can occur and the consequences can be devastating to the patient and to the surgeon. Determination of the host healing capacity can be useful in predicting complications. Cierney and Mader classified patients as Type A: no healing compromises and Type B: systemic or local healing compromises factors present. Local factors include traumatic arthritis with multiple previous incisions, extensive scarring, lymphedema, poor vascular perfusion, and excessive local adipose deposition. Systemic compromising factors include diabetes, rheumatic diseases, renal or liver disease, immune compromise, steroids, smoking, and poor nutrition. In high risk situations the surgeon should encourage positive patient choices such as smoking cessation and nutritional supplementation to elevate the total lymphocyte count and total albumin.

Careful planning of incisions, particularly in patients with scarring or multiple previous operations, is productive. Around the knee the vascular viability is better in the medial flap. Thus, use the most lateral previous incision, do minimal undermining, and handle tissue meticulously. We do all potentially complicated TKAs without tourniquet to enhance blood flow and tissue viability. The use of perioperative anticoagulation will increase wound problems.

If wound drainage or healing problems do occur immediate action is required. Deep sepsis can be ruled out with a joint aspiration and cell count, and negative culture and sensitivity. All hematomas should be evacuated and necrosis or dehiscence should be managed by debridement to obtain a live wound. Options available for coverage of complex wound problems include myocutaneous flaps, pedicled skin flaps, and skin grafts. Wet, occlusive dressings and wound VACs encourage epithelisation of chronic wounds.

Purposes of the Study

To study the incidence of delayed consolidation of regenerate in children undergoing correction or lengthening of lower limb deformities using an external fixator.

There are special circumstances in which revision total knee arthroplasty is not an option. The relative indications for the alternatives to revision TKA are: - Recurrent deep infection - Immunocompromised patient - Extensor mechanism loss - Extensive, non-reconstructable soft tissue loss - High functional demand, young age Remember the three A's as alternatives to revision TKA: arthrodesis, arthroplasty (resection), and amputation. Successful arthrodesis requires elimination of infection, coaptation of bone surfaces and rigid immobilisation. The proper position for arthrodesis is 15 degrees of knee flexion to allow foot clearance. If bone loss is greater than 3 cm fuse the knee in full extension. Avoid hyperextension. Achieve 5 degrees of valgus in correct rotation and use intramedullary instruments from TKA sets for best cuts. External fixation techniques as well as intramedullary internal fixation techniques will be described. Resection arthroplasty is indicated for salvage of an infected total knee when the patient is not a candidate for reimplantation. These patients usually have extensive soft and hard tissue loss. Procedure may be well tolerated and functional. Ancillary support with a long leg drop- lock KAFO increases stability and provides motion. Patients finding resection unacceptable are more likely to accept fusion or amputation; therefore resection may be a staging procedure. Amputation is indicated for failed multiple revisions, intractable or life threatening infection. Also should be indicated when there is a low chance of a successful arthrodesis. Ablate at the lowest level for infection eradication but good maintenance of function. Pedicle muscle flaps can be useful to fill dead spaces. Remember, elderly patients have limited ambulation potential because of high energy requirements of above knee amputation.

The longitudinal midline and medial-parapatellar incision are commonly used in Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA). Medial-parapatellar incision n offers a smaller wound, avoids creation of thin skin flaps and easier exposure in obese patients. This incision creates a lateral skin flap which may be subject to poor blood supply and delayed wound healing.

We undertook a Randomised Controlled Trial (n=20) comparing midline and medial-parapatellar incisions. Cutaneous blood-flow was measured using a Doppler Imager. Interstitial fluid measurements for lactate, pyruvate, lactate/pyruvate ratio and glucose were obtained from subcutaneous microdialysis catheters. Wound cosmesis was graded and skin sensation tested.

Immediately post-op there was no significant difference in subcutaneous blood flow, but by day 3 patients with medial-parapatellar incisions showed greater bloodflow than midline incisions, particularly on the medial side (387 vs 278units p=0.148). At both day 1 and 3 post-op the lateral flap of the medial parapatellar incision showed decreased blood flow compared to the medial side, though these failed to reach significance. In contrast the midline incision showed no discernable difference in blood flow between the medial and lateral flaps. Concentrations of subcutaneous glucose increased from 4 hours post-op in the midline group, returning to baseline by 24hours. In contrast, the parapatellar group remained at base line throughout. Lactate concentrations increased over time in both groups peaking at 12hours post-op. No difference was noted between incision types with regard to wound cosmesis.

We conclude that the use of a medial-parapatellar incision results in only minimal biochemical changes, which are unlikely to alter wound healing. Medial-parapatellar incision is therefore a safe alternative to a midline incision and can be utilised in appropriate complex cases to aid surgical exposure.

The Pelvic Support Osteotomy (PSO) or Ilizarov Hip Reconstruction(IHR) is well described for the treatment of septic sequelae of infancy. The purpose of this study was to clinically, functionally and radiographically assess our short-term results of this procedure.

25 patients (16 boys, 9 girls) who had undergone a IHR using the Ilizarov/TSF construct over a period of 10 years for a variety of pathologies were reviewed. The mean age at surgery was 15 years 4 months. The pre-operative diagnoses were SCFE(10), hip sepsis (6), DDH (6) and Perthes (3). All had significant leg length discrepancies, 16 had a painful stiff hip, 6 had a painful mobile hip and 3 had a painless unstable hip. At surgery, a mean measured proximal valgus angle of 51° and a mean extension angle of 15° was achieved. Distal femoral lengthening averaged 4.2 cm and distal varus correction was a mean of 8°. The mean fixator time was 173 days.

At a mean of 2 years and 7 months follow-up the lower-extremity length discrepancy had improved from a mean of 5.6 cm apparent shortening to 2.3 cm. Trendelenberg sign was eliminated in 18/25 cases. Improvements in range of hip movements and gait parameters were observed. Stance time asymmetry, step length asymmetry, pelvic dip and trunk lurch improved significantly. One patient had conversion to a total hip replacement after 7 years, 4 patients required re-do PSO due to remodelling of the proximal osteotomies, two had heterotopic ossification and two had significant knee stiffness due to lack of compliance.

The early results of IHR are encouraging to equalise limb lengths, negate trendelenburg gait, provide a mobile hip with a reasonable axis and the possibility of conversion to THR in the future if needed. Complications need to be anticipated and the effects of remodelling and maintaining adequate knee range of motion must be emphasised.

Statement of purpose

To demonstrate how contemplating reconstructive options among members of Orthoplastic team can prevent accidental damage during initial wound debridement in foot and ankle injuries

Complex defects of the foot and ankle often require input from plastic and orthopaedic surgeons. There are different reconstructive options but one excellent regional option for small defects is the Extensor Digitorum Brevis muscle (EDB) flap. The anatomy of the flap and surgical technique and utility are described and demonstrated through a case series.

We present a series of 4 consecutive cases of the use of the pedicled EDB flap for soft tissue coverage of difficult defects around the foot and ankle. This regional pedicled flap can be proximally based to cover defects around the ankle or distally based for distal foot coverage. When possible, it facilitates a reconstruction with minimal donor site morbidity, shorter operating times, and fewer complications than alternative options

The flap would usually be performed by the plastic surgical member of the orthoplastic team, but an understanding of it by foot and ankle and reconstructive orthopaedic surgeons is relevant as it's vascular supply via the lateral tarsal artery can be easily damaged, preventing its use in the management of wound complications or trauma.

There are a number of periprosthetic femoral fracture (PFF) fixation failures. In several cases the effect of fracture configuration on the performance of the chosen fixation method has been underestimated. As a result, fracture movement within the window that seems to promote callus formation has not been achieved and fixations ultimately failed.

This study tested the hypothesis that: PFF configuration and the choice of plate fixation method can be detrimental to healing.

A series of computational models were developed, corroborated against measurements from a series of instrumented laboratory models and in vivo case studies. The models were used to investigate the fixation of different fracture configurations and plate fixation parameters. Surface strain and fracture movement were compared between the constructs.

A strong correlation between the computational and experimental models was found. Computational models showed that unstable fracture configurations increase the stress on the plate fixation. It was found that bridging length plays a pivotal role in the fracture movement. Rigid fixations, where there is clinical evidence of failure, showed low fracture movement in the models (<0.05mm); this could be increased with different screw and plate configurations to promote healing.

In summary our results highlighted the role of fracture configuration in PFF fixations and showed that rigid fixations that suppress fracture movement could be detrimental to healing.

Background

Intervertebral disc cells exist in a challenging physiological environment. Disc degeneration occurs early in life implying that disc cells may no longer be able to maintain a functional tissue. We hypothesise that disc cells have a stress response different from most other cells because of the disc environment. We have compared the stress response of freshly isolated and cultured bovine nucleus pulposus (NP) cells with bovine dermal fibroblasts, representative of cells from a vascularised tissue.

We hypothesise that the Masquelet induced membrane used for the reconstruction of large bone defects were likely to involve mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), given the excellent resultant skeletal repair. This study represents the first characterisation in humans of the induced membrane formed as a result of the Masquelet technique.

Background

Despite the suggestion by Virchow in 1856 that thrombosis was the result of venous stasis, endothelial dysfunction and hypercoagulability there are some fundamental questions which remain to be answered. The published studies fail to provide specific details such as cast type and anatomical location of the thrombosis, but instead focus on the incidence of VTE and which chemical thromboprophylaxis is most effective. Previous studies of VTE in trauma patients have involved small numbers of patients and have not look at the risk medium to long term risk. Most importantly they have not looked at the site of the VTE. This makes interpretation of the link between cast and VTE even more complex.

Introduction

The reverse obliquity fractures of the proximal femur are anatomically and mechanically different from most intertrochanteric fractures. These fractures are complex and very difficult to treat. To evaluate the results of the treatment of reverse obliquity intertrochanteric fractures with cephalomedullary nails.

This study provides recommendations on the position of the implant in reverse shoulder replacement in order to minimise scapular notching and osteophyte formation. Radiographs from 151 patients who underwent primary reverse shoulder replacement with a single prosthesis were analysed at a mean follow-up of 28.3 months (24 to 44) for notching, osteophytes, the position of the glenoid baseplate, the overhang of the glenosphere, and the prosthesis scapular neck angle (PSNA).

A total of 20 patients (13.2%) had a notch (16 Grade 1 and four Grade 2) and 47 (31.1%) had an osteophyte. In patients without either notching or an osteophyte the baseplate was found to be positioned lower on the glenoid, with greater overhang of the glenosphere and a lower PSNA than those with notching and an osteophyte. Female patients had a higher rate of notching than males (13.3% vs 13.0%) but a lower rate of osteophyte formation (22.9% vs 50.0%), even though the baseplate was positioned significantly lower on the glenoid in females (p = 0.009) and each had a similar mean overhang of the glenosphere.

Based on these findings we make recommendations on the placement of the implant in both male and female patients to avoid notching and osteophyte formation.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:530–5.

Introduction

The concept of “bone graft expanders” has been popularised to increase the volume and biological activity of the implanted Material.

The internal fixation of osteochondral fragments in fractures normally utilizes intra-articular screws inserted through a pilot hole drilled into cartilage/bone. This trauma causes cartilage injury leading to chondrocyte death. We have quantified the cell death following cartilage drilling and identified irrigation conditions that can protect chondrocytes. Articular cartilage of bovine metacarpophalangeal joints of 3yr-old cows was irrigated in the presence/absence of saline of various compositions. Holes were then made using a standard 1.5mm drill (Ortho Solutions Ltd.) at 18,000 rpm through the articular cartilage into bone. Osteochondral explants were then harvested and cultured in Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium containing chloromethylfluorescein-di-acetate and propidium iodide (10uM each), to label living chondrocytes green and dead cells red, respectively. Axial images were taken by confocal microscopy and the width of the zone of cell death (ZCD) around the hole determined. With no irrigation, new drills caused a ZCD of 171±25um, which was increased when drills used 50+ times were tested (279±31um;p=0.03). With saline irrigation, the ZCD was reduced for old drills (150±6um;p=0.016) but not for new drills (124±8um) suggesting the heating effect of the old drills caused additional chondrocyte death. However for new drills, the ZCD was further reduced significantly to 82±7um when the osmolarity of the saline irrigation solution was raised to 480mOsm using sucrose. Data are mean±s.e.m., from at least 5 separate experiments each with a minimum of 3 replicates. The results demonstrate a chondroprotective effect of raising the osmolarity of saline used during drilling of cartilage which could be clinically beneficial.

Introduction

Traditional Total Knee Arthpolasty (TKA) replaces all 3 compartments of the knee for patients diagnosed with OA. There might be functional benefit to replacing only damaged compartments, and retaining the normal ligamentous structures. There is a long history of performing multi-compartment arthroplasty with discrete components. Laskin reported in 1976 that good pain relief and acceptable clinical results were achieved at two years in patients with bi-unicondylar knee replacement [Laskin 1976]. Other authors also have reported on bi-unicompartmental knee arthroplasty achieving successful clinical outcomes [Stockley 1990; Confalonieri 2005]. Banks et al. reported that kinematics of bi-unicompartmental arthroplasties during gait demonstrated some of the basic features of normal knee kinematics [Banks 2005]. These reports suggest that a modular approach to resurfacing the knee can be successful and achieve satisfactory clinical and functional results.

Introduction

Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) aims to deliver relief from pain and restore normal function. Unfortunately, a significant cohort of patients report poor outcomes.

Objective

There is mounting evidence to suggest a vascular insult is responsible for Perthes' disease, and it is suggested that this may have long-term implications for the vascular health of affected individuals. This study sought to use ultrasound measures to investigate vascular structure and function in children affected by Perthes' disease.

Objectives

The number of surgical procedures performed each year to treat femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) continues to rise. Although there is evidence that surgery can improve symptoms in the short-term, there is no evidence that it slows the development of osteoarthritis (OA). We performed a feasibility study to determine whether patient and surgeon opinion was permissive for a Randomised Controlled Trial (RCT) comparing operative with non-operative treatment for FAI.

Aim

Differing reports about the surgical management of the supracondylar humeral fracture make evidence-based practice very difficult, so knowledge of the contemporary practices and opinions of an expert body can provide a useful benchmark for appraisal; the aim of this study was to obtain this information.

Aim

To determine if the instigation of Magnetic Resonance Extremity (MRE) scanning in our unit as part of the management of suspected paediatric scaphoid fractures has prevented overuse of splints or casts reduced unnecessary clinic appointments and saved our department financially.

Aim

Case Report presentation of traumatic cartilage loss in a child.

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a significant cause of osteoarthritis in young active individuals but the pathophysiology remains unclear. Increasing mechanistic studies point toward an inflammatory component in OA. This study aimed to characterise inflammatory cell subtypes in FAI by exploring the phenotype and quantification of inflammatory cells in FAI versus OA samples.

Ten samples of labrum were obtained from patients with FAI (confirmed pathology) during open osteochondroplasty or hip arthroscopy. Control samples of labrum were collected from five patients with osteoarthritis undergoing total hip arthroplasty. Labral biopsies were evaluated immunohistochemically by quantifying the presence of macrophages (CD68 and CD202), T cells (CD3), mast cells (mast cell tryptase) and vascular endothelium (CD34).

Labral biopsies obtained from patients with FAI exhibited significantly greater macrophage, mast cell and vascular endothelium expression compared to control samples. The most significant difference was noted in macrophage expression (p<0.01). Further sub typing of macrophages in FAI using CD202 tissue marker revealed and M2 phenotype suggesting that these cells are involved in a regenerate versus a degenerate process. There was a modest but significant correlation between mast cells and CD34 expression (r=0.4, p<0.05) in FAI samples.

We provide evidence for an inflammatory cell infiltrate in femoroacetabular impingement. In particular, we demonstrate significant infiltration of mast cells and macrophages suggesting a role for innate immune pathways in the events that mediate hip impingement. Further mechanistic studies to evaluate the net contribution and hence therapeutic utility of these cellular lineages and their downstream processes may reveal novel therapeutic approaches to the management of early hip impingement.

Aim

To evaluate the influence of arthrodiatasis in the natural history of the stages of the disease radiologically and also the timing of arthrodiatasis.

Background

The knee is the commonest joint to be affected by osteoarthritis, with the medial compartment commonly affected. Knee osteoarthritis is commonly bilateral, yet symptoms may initially present unilaterally. Higher knee adduction moment has been associated with the development and progression of medial compartment knee osteoarthritis.

Introduction

We reports the accuracy of direct Magnetic Resonance Arthrography (MRA) in detecting Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC), Scapho-Lunate Ligament (SLL) and Luno-Triquetral Ligament (LTL) tears using wrist arthroscopy as the gold standard.

Introduction

Acute renal dysfunction (ARD) following orthopaedic surgery is known to increase morbidity, mortality, and length of hospital stay. The aim of this study was to compare the incidence of new acute post-operative renal dysfunction between two cohorts of elective orthopaedic surgical patients receiving either cefuroxime or a combination of gentamicin and flucloxacillin as prophylactic antibiotic regimes. The study was initiated following a change in antibiotic prophylaxis within our unit from cefuroxime to gentamicin and flucloxacillin.

Introduction

Hip arthroscopy is a relatively new procedure and evidence to support its use remains limited. Well-designed prospective clinical trials with long-term outcomes are required, but study design requires an understanding of current practice. Our aim was to determine temporal trends in the uptake of non-arthroplasty hip surgery in England between 2001 and 2011.

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate PDGF release in the peripheral circulation following trauma and to correlate it with the numbers of MSCs in iliac crest bone marrow (BM) aspirate.

Introduction

Subtle deformities of the acetabulum and proximal femur are recognised as biomechanical risk factors for the development of hip osteoarthritis (OA) as well as a cause of hip and groin pain. We undertook this study to examine relationships between a number of morphological measurements of the acetabulum and proximal femur and the hip pain in a 20-year longitudinal study.

Introduction

Segmental tibia fractures are high-energy injuries that are difficult to treat. We report on the use of the Ilizarov Method to treat 40 consecutive AO42C (35) and AO42B3 (5) fractures by a single surgeon. Fractures with bone loss requiring transport were excluded, as were fractures initially treated with nail or plate.

Aim

To study the results of using recombinant human bone morphogenic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) to achieve bone union in children with complex orthopaedic problems including skeletal dysplasia, congenital limb deficiencies and complex trauma.

Aim

To review the outcome of deep prosthetic infection in patients following hip hemiarthroplasty surgery.

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) in teenagers is uncommon and previously associated with poor survival rates. However it is sometimes the only option remaining to relieve pain and improve function in patients with advanced hip disease. We report on the clinical and radiological outcomes of THA in teenage patients. Medical records and radiographs of all consecutive teenage patients undergoing THA at a tertiary referral centre between 2006–2011 were reviewed. Mean follow-up was 3.4 years (range 0.6–6.8) with 9 patients having at least 5 years follow-up. Post-operative Harris hip, Oxford hip (OHS) and University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) activity scores were recorded. 51 THAs were performed in 43 patients (21 male, 22 female) with a mean age of 17 years (range 12–19). The 5 most common indications were slipped upper femoral epiphysis osteonecrosis 15 (29.4%), developmental hip dysplasia osteonecrosis 5 (9.8%), multiple/spondylo-epiphyseal dysplasia 5 (9.8%), chemotherapy-induced osteonecrosis 4 (7.8%) and idiopathic osteonecrosis 4 (8.2%). 46 (90%) were uncemented THAs and 5 (10%) were reverse hybrid THAs with 7 computer assisted design/manufacture (CADCAM) femoral implants. Articular bearings were ceramic/ceramic in 40 (78.4%), metal/metal 6 (11.8%), metal/polyethylene 3 (5.9%) and ceramic/polyethylene 2 (3.9%). The survival rate was 96% with 2 acute head revisions for 1 sciatic nerve palsy and 1 instability. Other complications (8.2%) included 1 dislocation, 1 sciatic nerve palsy that resolved, 1 surgical site infection and 1 unexplained pain. At latest follow-up, the mean Harris hip score was 90 (68–99), OHS was 42 (32–48) and UCLA activity score was 6 (4–9). Radiological analysis showed 2 patients with lucent lines around the acetabular component, but no signs of osteolysis or wear. As one of the largest studies on teenagers undergoing THA, we report good clinical and radiological outcomes at short to intermediate term follow-up.

Aim

To investigate the effectiveness of a decision-based protocol designed to minimise the use of medial incisions when performing crossed-wire fixation of supracondylar fractures of the distal humerus whilst minimising ulnar nerve injury.

This RCT compared electromagnetic (EM) navigated and conventional total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in terms of clinical and functional outcomes. 200 patients (navigated=102, conventional=98) were recruited. Oxford Knee Scores (OKS) and the American Knee Society Score (AKSS) were recorded pre operation, 3 and 12 months after surgery. Post operative (coronal, sagittal and rotational) alignment was analysed from 3D CT scans taken 3 months after surgery. An objective functional assessment was completed using electrogoniometry on a sub group (navigated=60, conventional=57) at 12 months post surgery.

The EM group showed statistically significantly improved OKS (p=0.04) and AKSS (p=0.03) scores at 3 months post operation. However at 12 months post surgery there was no difference between the two groups. At the 1 year follow up it was reported that 9% of the navigated compared to 14% of the conventional group were dissatisfied with their surgical outcome.

The mechanical axis alignment of 90% of the navigated group was within 3 degrees of neutral compared to 84% of the conventional group. Although all alignment parameters except for tibial rotation was improved in the navigated group they did not reach significance apart from femoral slope alignment (p=0.01).

There was no statistically difference between the surgical groups in terms of the maximum, minimum and excursion knee joint angles during 12 functional activities. Only the knee kinematic function cycles for level walking resulted in statistically significant higher knee joint angles during 55–70% of the gait cycle in the navigated group.

Knee alignment was better restored following EM navigated TKA relative to conventional TKA, but the difference was not significant. The EM group showed greater clinical and functional improvements at early follow-up; however this difference was not sustained at 12 months. The EM group reported minimal gait improvements. Proving cost-effectiveness for navigation systems in TKA remains a challenge.

Introduction

Solid or cystic pseudotumour is a potentially destructive complication of metal on metal (MoM) couples, usually needing revision surgery. However, complete clearance of the pseudotumour is unlikely at times. This prospective case-controlled study reports cases which had recurrence after revision surgery for pseudotumour related to metal on metal hip couples.

Introduction and aims

Low back pain is a common complaint, affecting up to one third of the adult population costing over £1 billion to the NHS each year and £3.5 billion to the UK economy in lost production. The demand for spinal injections is increasing allowing for advanced spinal physiotherapists to perform the procedure. The objective of this study was to investigate outcome following spinal injections performed by consultant spinal surgeon (n=40) and advanced spinal physiotherapists (ASP) (n=40) at our centre.

Objective

Pyogenic spinal infection (PSI) is an increasingly common presentation to spinal units in the UK. Its investigation and diagnosis is often delayed. The purpose of this study was to determine the prognostic significance of the inflammatory marker levels on admission on achieving a positive microbiological diagnosis in patients with PSI.

A retrospective analysis was carried out to determine the influence of pre-existing spinal pathology on the outcome of Total Knee Replacement surgery. Data was collected from 345 patients who had undergone Total Knee Replacement, at four centres in the UK, between 2000 and 2007. Oxford Knee Scores (OKS), American Knee Society Scores (AKSS) and SF-12 questionnaires were recorded prospectively. Data was collected pre-operatively and then post-operatively at 3 months, 1 year and 2 years. Patients were divided into those with (n=40) and without a history of low back pain (n=305). In addition to determining the influence of low back pain on outcome after Total Knee Replacement we also examined the influence of concomitant hip and ankle pathology in the same cohort of patients.

OKS scores were significantly worse for patients with symptomatic low back pain at 3 (p=0.05), 12 (p=0.009) and 24 months (p=0.039) following surgery. SF-12 physical scores followed a comparable pattern with significance demonstrated at 3 (p=0.038), 12 (p=0.0002) and 24 months (p=0.016). AKSS followed a similar pattern, but significance was only reached at 1 year (p=0.013). The mental component of the SF-12 measure demonstrated a significant improvement in patients' mental health post-operatively for patients with no history of low back pain. In contrast patients with low back pain showed no improvement in mental health scores post-operatively.

In contrast to low back pain, hip and ankle pathology had no statistically significant detrimental effect on the outcome of Total Knee Replacement surgery.

This study demonstrates that low back pain significantly affects the functional outcome after Total Knee Replacement surgery and that patients with low back pain show no improvement in mental health post-operatively.

Introduction

It has been speculated that impact deformation of thin 1-piece cups used for modern metal-on-metal hip replacement may contribute to early failure. The purpose of this study was to reproduce typical impact deformation and quantify the effect of this on the frictional torque generated at the hip.

Aim

The aim of the study was to characterise gait in patients with achondroplasia post lengthening.

Purpose

To examine the effect of limb lengthening on the quality of life of people who have disproportionate short stature (DSS).

We report on the use of the Ilizarov method to treat 40 consecutive fractures of the tibial shaft (35 AO 42C fractures and five AO 42B3 fractures) in adults. There were 28 men and 12 women with a mean age of 43 years (19 to 81). The series included 19 open fractures (six Gustilo grade 3A and 13 grade 3B) and 21 closed injuries. The mean time from injury to application of definitive Ilizarov frame was eight days (0 to 35) with 36 fractures successfully uniting without the need for any bone-stimulating procedure. The four remaining patients with nonunion healed with a second frame. There were no amputations and no deep infections. None required intervention for malunion. The total time to healing was calculated from date of injury to removal of the frame, with a median of 166 days (mean 187, (87 to 370)). Minor complications included snapped wires in two patients and minor pin-site infections treated with oral antibiotics in nine patients (23%). Clinical scores were available for 32 of the 40 patients at a median of 55 months (mean 62, (26 to 99)) post-injury, with ‘good’ Olerud and Molander ankle scores (median 80, mean 75, (10 to 100)), ‘excellent’ Lysholm knee scores (median 97, mean 88, (29 to 100)), a median Tegner activity score of 4 (mean 4, (0 to 9)) (comparable to ‘moderately heavy labour / cycling and jogging’) and Short Form-12 scores that exceeded the mean of the population as a whole (median physical component score 55 (mean 51, (20 to 64)), median mental component score 57 (mean 53, (21 to 62)). In conclusion, the Ilizarov method is a safe and reliable way of treating complex tibial shaft fractures with a high rate of primary union.

A moderator and panel of five experts led an interactive session in discussing five challenging and interesting patient case presentations involving surgery of the hip. The hip pathologies reviewed included failed open reduction internal fixation of subcapital femoral neck fracture, bilateral hip disease, evaluation of pain after metal-on-metal hip arthroplasty, avascular necrosis, aseptic loosening secondary to osteolysis and polyethylene wear, and management of ceramic femoral head fracture.

Most problems encountered in complex revision total knee arthroplasty can be managed with the wide range of implant systems currently available. Modular metaphyseal sleeves, metallic augments and cones provide stability even with significant bone loss. Hinged designs substitute for significant ligamentous deficiencies. Catastrophic failure that precludes successful reconstruction can be encountered. The alternatives to arthroplasty in such drastic situations include knee arthrodesis, resection arthroplasty and amputation. The relative indications for the selection of these alternatives are recurrent deep infection, immunocompromised host, and extensive non-reconstructible bone or soft-tissue defects.

Controversies about the management of injuries to the soft tissue structures of the posteromedial corner of the knee and the contribution of such peripheral structures on rotational stability of the knee are of increasing interest and currently remain inadequately characterised. The posterior oblique ligament (POL) is a fibrous extension off the distal aspect of the semimembranosus that blends with and reinforces the posteromedial aspect of the joint capsule. The POL is reported to be a primary restraint to internal rotation and a secondary restraint to valgus translation and external rotation. Although its role as a static stabiliser to the medial knee has been previously described, the effect of the posterior oblique ligament (POL) injuries on tibiofemoral stability during Lachman and pivot shift examination in the setting of ACL injury is unknown.

The objective of this study was to quantify the magnitude of tibiofemoral translation during the Lachman and pivot shift tests after serial sectioning of the ACL and POL.

Eight knees were used for this study. Ligamentous constraints were sequentially sectioned in the following order: ACL first, followed by the POL. Navigated mechanised pivot shift and Lachman examinations were performed before and after each structure was sectioned, and tibiofemoral translation was recorded.

Lachman test: There was a mean 6.0 mm of lateral compartment translation in the intact knee (SD = 3.3 mm). After sectioning the ACL, translation increased to 13.8 mm (SD = 4.6; P<0.05). There was a nonsignificant 0.7 mm increase in translation after sectioning the POL (mean = 14.5 mm; SD = 3.9 P>0.05).

Mechanised pivot shift: Mean lateral compartment translation in the intact knee was −1.2 mm (SD = 3.2 mm). Sectioning the ACL caused an increase in anterior tibial translation (mean = 6.7 mm; SD = 3.0 mm; P<0.05). No significant change in translation was seen after sectioning the POL (mean = 7.0 mm, SD = 4.0 mm; P>0.05).

Sectioning the POL did not significantly alter tibiofemoral translation in the ACL deficient knee during the Lachman and pivot shift tests. This study brings into question whether injuries to the POL require reconstruction in conjunction with ACL reconstruction. More studies are needed to further characterise the role of the injured POL in knee stability and its clinical relevance in the ACL deficient and reconstructed knee.

The aim of this study was to determine the influence of electromagnetic (EM) navigation in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) on post operative function.

In this double blinded randomised control trial, patients with osteoarthritis either received TKA using conventional techniques (n = 49) or EM navigation (iNav Portable Navigation System, Zimmer Orthopaedics) (n = 52). All of the patients were reviewed in the Outcomes Clinic at 3 and 12 months. At 12 months post operation the patients completed an objective biomechanical functional assessment using flexible electrogoniometers, which recorded dynamic knee kinematics during daily activities. Knee joint flexion and extension moments were recorded at the 12 month post operation assessment. The functional assessment included validated questionnaires (Oxford Knee Score, American Knee Society Score, WOMAC Score and Short Form SF-36 Score). All patients underwent CT scanning of the implanted prosthesis to assess component alignment.

Improved alignment was recorded in the navigated group. However there was no significantly significant difference between the two surgical groups in terms of the subjective questionnaire scores. The biomechanical assessment showed no statistically significant differences in the maximum, minimum or excursion knee joint angles between the two surgical groups during the 12 daily functional tasks. However, significant differences were reported in level and slope walking activities during pre-swing phase (at around 60% of the gait cycle). The navigated group had significantly higher knee joint angles during pre swing suggesting a more vigorous push off into swing phase and a more ‘normal’ gait cycle. The two surgical groups were sub divided into males and females for the strength test. The female navigated group recorded a significantly greater hamstring (p = 0.03) and quadriceps (p = 0.003) moment. There was no significant difference in hamstring or quadriceps moments between the navigated and conventional male groups.

The knee kinematics and moment data suggests that the navigated group had an improved functional outcome. However the difference in the post-operation function of the two groups remains minimal despite the better alignment achieved using navigation.

Fractures of the femoral head are a challenging problem. The most often performed head preserving procedure worldwide is closed reduction and insertion of cannulated screws under fluoroscopic control. The use of navigation is still experimental in general trauma since rigid reference markers must be attached to all fragments. The examined system (Surgix®, Tel Aviv, Israel) is a fluoroscopy based image analysing system. It consists of a workstation and X-ray opaque markers in surgical tools. When the tool is visible in a C-arm shot a trajectory is displayed as additional layer in the image to serve as guidance for the surgeon.

Forty synthetic femurs (Synbone®, Malans, Switzerland) were used and placed inside foam to simulate the soft tissue of the thigh. The models were equipped with 4.5mm radio-opaque markers at the fovea capitis femoris as target point. The aim was to bring the tip of a K-wire as close as possible to the target point entering the bone at the lateral base of the greater trochanter in a center-center position. Twenty were done under image guidance and 20 were operated the conventional way. Outcome measures included the accuracy (the distance between the tip of the wire and the target in a CT), the number of guide wire insertions, procedure duration, radiation exposure and learning curve.

In the image guided group optimal guide wire placement was accomplished on first pass in 65% of the cases as compared to 5% in the conventional group (p = < 0.0001). The average number of trial and error was significantly lower in the guided group (1.7 vs. 5.8, p = < 0.0001). Consequently the average duration of the guided procedure was significantly shorter (p = 0.0008) along with radiation exposure time reduced by over 70% (p = 0.0002). The guidance system hit averaged 5.8 mm off target as compared to 5.3 mm for the freehand method (p = 0.3319).

Image based guidance significantly shortened the procedure, reduced the radiation exposure and the number of trials without changing the surgeons workflow and can be used in trauma cases were reference marker based navigation is not applicable.

Controversies about the management of injuries to the soft tissue structures of the posteromedial corner of the knee and the contribution of such peripheral structures on rotational stability of the knee are of increasing interest and currently remain inadequately characterised. The posterior oblique ligament (POL) is a fibrous extension off the distal aspect of the semimembranosus that blends with and reinforces the posteromedial aspect of the joint capsule. The POL is reported to be a primary restraint to internal rotation and a secondary restraint to valgus translation and external rotation. Although its role as a static stabiliser to the medial knee has been previously described, the effect of the posterior oblique ligament (POL) injuries on tibiofemoral stability during Lachman and pivot shift examination in the setting of ACL injury is unknown.

The objective of this study was to quantify the magnitude of tibiofemoral translation during the Lachman and pivot shift tests after serial sectioning of the ACL and POL.

Eight knees were used for this study. Ligamentous constraints were sequentially sectioned in the following order: ACL first, followed by the POL. Navigated mechanised pivot shift and Lachman examinations were performed before and after each structure was sectioned, and tibiofemoral translation was recorded.

Lachman test: There was a mean 6.0 mm of lateral compartment translation in the intact knee (SD = 3.3 mm). After sectioning the ACL, translation increased to 13.8 mm (SD = 4.6; P<0.05). There was a nonsignificant 0.7 mm increase in translation after sectioning the POL (mean = 14.5 mm; SD = 3.9 P>0.05).

Mechanised pivot shift: Mean lateral compartment translation in the intact knee was −1.2 mm (SD = 3.2 mm). Sectioning the ACL caused an increase in anterior tibial translation (mean = 6.7 mm; SD = 3.0 mm; P<0.05). No significant change in translation was seen after sectioning the POL (mean = 7.0 mm, SD = 4.0 mm; P>0.05).

Sectioning the POL did not significantly alter tibiofemoral translation in the ACL deficient knee during the Lachman and pivot shift tests. This study brings into question whether injuries to the POL require reconstruction in conjunction with ACL reconstruction. More studies are needed to further characterise the role of the injured POL in knee stability and its clinical relevance in the ACL deficient and reconstructed knee.

Over the last two decades, anatomic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions have gained popularity, while the use of extraarticular reconstructions has decreased. However, the biomechanical rationale behind the lateral extraarticular sling has not been adequately studied. By understanding its effect on knee stability, it may be possible to identify specific situations in which lateral extraarticular tenodesis may be advantageous. The primary objective of this study was to quantify the ability of a lateral extraarticular sling to restore native kinematics to the ACL deficient knee, with and without combined intraarticular anatomic ACL reconstruction. Additionally, we aimed to characterise the isometry of four possible femoral tunnel positions for the lateral extraarticular sling.

Eight fresh frozen hip-to-toe cadavers were used in this study. Navigated Lachman and mechanised pivot shift examinations were performed on ACL itact and deficient knees. Three reconstruction strategies were evaluated: Single bundle anatomic intraarticular ACL reconstruction, Lateral extraarticular sling, Combined intraarticular ACL reconstruction and lateral extraarticular sling. After all stability tests were completed, we quantified the isometry of four possible femoral tunnel positions for the lateral extraarticular sling using the Surgetics navigation system. A single tibial tunnel position was identified and digitised over Gerdy's tubercle. Four possible graft positions were identified on the lateral femoral condyle: the top of the lateral collateral ligament (LCL); the top of the septum; the ideal tunnel position, as defined by the navigation system's own algorithm; and the actual tunnel position used during testing, described in the literature as the intersection of the linear projections of the LCL and the septum over the lateral femoral condyle. For each of the four tunnel positions, the knee was cycled from 0 to 90® of flexion and fiber length was recorded at 30® intervals, therefore quantiying the magnitude of anisometry for each tunnel position.

Stability testing: Sectioning of the ACL resulted in an increase in Lachman (15mm, p = 0.01) and mechanised pivot shift examination (6.75mm, p = 0.04) in all specimens compared with the intact knee. Anatomic intraarticular ACL reconstruction restored the Lachman (6.7mm, p = 3.76) and pivot shift (−3.5mm, p = 0.85) to the intact state. With lateral extraarticular sling alone, there was a trend towards increased anterior translation with the Lachman test (9.2mm, p = 0.50). This reconstruction restored the pivot shift to the intact state. (1.25mm, p = 0.73). Combined intraarticular and extraarticular reconstruction restored the Lachman (6.2mm, p = 2.11) and pivot shift (−3.75mm, p = 0.41) to the intact state. There was no significant difference between intraarticular alone and combined intraarticular and extraarticular reconstruction. (p = 1.88)

Isometry: The ideal tunnel position calculated by the navigation system was identified over the lateral femoral condyle, beneath the mid-portion of the LCL. The anisometry for the ideal tunnel position was significantly lower (5.9mm; SD = 1.8mm; P<0.05) than the anisometry of the actual graft position (14.9mm; SD = 4mm), the top of the LCL (13.9mm; SD = 4.3mm) and the top of the septum (12mm; SD = 2.4mm).

In the isolated acute ACL deficient knee, the addition of a lateral extraarticular sling to anatomic intraarticular ACL reconstruction provides little biomechanical advantage and is not routinely recommended. Isolated lateral extraarticular sling does control the pivot shift, and may be an option in the revision setting or in the lower demand patient with functional instability. Additionally, the location of the femoral tunnel traditionally used results in a significantly more anisometric graft than the navigation's system mathematical ideal location. However, the location of this ideal tunnel placement lies beneath mid-portion of the fibers of the LCL, which would not be clinically feasible.

Computer assisted surgery (CAS) is used in trauma surgery to reduce radiation and improve accuracy but it is time consuming. Some trials for navigation in small bone fractures were made, but they are still experimental. One major problem is the fixation of the dynamic reference base for navigation. We evaluated the benefit of a new image based guidance-system (Surgix®, Tel Aviv, Israel) for fracture treatment in scaphoid bones compared to the conventional method without navigation. The system consists of a workstation and surgical devices with embedded radio opaque markers. These markers as well as the object of interest must be on the same C-arm shot. If a tool is detected in an image by the attached workstation additional information such as trajectories are displayed in the original fluoroscopic image to serve the surgeon as aiming device. The system needs no referencing and no change of the workflow.

For this study 20 synthetic hand models (Synbone®, Malans, Switzerland) were randomised in two groups. Aim of this study was a central guide-wire placement in the scaphoid bone, which was blindly measured by using postoperative CT-scans. Significant distinctions related to the duration of surgery, emission of radiation, radiation dose, and trials of guide-wire positioning were observed.

By using the system the surgery duration was with 50 % shortened (p = 0.0054) compared to the conventional group. One reason might be the significant reduction of trials to achieve a central guide-wire placement in the bone (p = 0.0032). Consequently the radiation exposure for the surgeon and the patient could be shortened by reduction of radiation emission (p = 0.0014) and radiation dose (p = 0.0019).

By using the imaged based guidance system a reduction of surgery duration, radiation exposure for the patient and the surgeon can be achieved. By a reduced number of trials for achieving a central guide-wire position the risk of weakening the bone structure can be minimised as well by using the system. The system seems helpful where navigation is not applicable up to now. The surgical workflow does not have to be chanced.

There is great interest to provide repeatable and durable treatments for arthritis localized to one or two compartments in the cruciate-ligament intact knee. We report a series of efforts to develop and characterize an implant system for partial knee resurfacing. We studied distal femoral morphology and found that the sagittal-plane relationships between the condylar and trochlear surfaces are highly variable (Figs 1 and 2). In response, we report the design of a multi-compartmental system of implants intended to anatomically resurface any combination of compartments (Fig 3). Finally, we report the results of a pilot fluoroscopic study of the in vivo knee kinematics in patients who received medial, medial plus patellofemoral and bi-condylar knee arthroplasty. The kinematic results suggest these treatments provide a stable knee with intact cruciate ligament function. This work shows various partial knee resurfacing treatments have the potential to provide excellent knee mechanics and clinical outcomes.

Note - A full paper was submitted for consideration of the Hap Paul Award. The figure legends and numbers in the attached figures correspond to those in the full paper.

Introduction

The muscles of the leg collectively comprise the calf pump, however the action of each muscle group on calf pump function is not known. Patients with foot or ankle injury or surgery are often advised to perform foot and ankle movements to help prevent deep venous thrombosis. Our aim was to determine which foot and ankle movements were most effective in stimulating the calf pump. Method: Nine healthy participants were enrolled in this research and ethics approved prospective study. Participants with a previous history of peripheral vascular disease, varicose veins, deep venous thrombosis or previous foot and ankle surgery were excluded. Each participant followed a standardized protocol of foot and ankle movements, starting with foot in neutral position and the baseline and movement peak systolic velocity within the popliteal vein was measured during each movement. The movements tested were toe dorsiflexion, toe plantar flexion, ankle dorsiflexion, ankle plantar flexion.

Introduction

MSCs have long promised benefits of synthesising bone/cartilage, treating non-unions and potentially accelerating fracture repair. This potential has been tempered by MSC scarcity in the ‘gold-standard’ iliac crest bone marrow aspirate (ICBMA) and the resulting need to expand numbers via cell-culture. Culture of MSCs is time-consuming, expensive and results in cells with a reduced differentiation capacity.

The reamer-irrigator-aspirator (RIA) is an innovation designed to reduce intra-medullary (IM) pressures during reaming of long-bones via continuous irrigation and suction. Aspirated contents are passed via a coarse filter, which traps bony-fragments before moving into a ‘waste’ bag - from which MSCs have been previously isolated. We examined liquid and solid phases found in this ‘waste’, performed a novel digestion of the solid phase and made a comparative assessment in terms of number, phenotype and differentiation capacity with matched ICBMA.

INTRODUCTION

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is regarded as one of the most successful surgeries in medicine. However, recent studies have revealed that ideal acetabular cup implantation is achieved less frequently than previously thought, as little as 50% of the time. It is well known that malalignment of the acetabular component in THA may result in dislocation, reduced range of motion, or accelerated wear. This study reports accuracy of a tactile robotic arm system to ream the acetabulum and impact an acetabulur cup compared to manual instrumentation.

Introduction

Knee prostheses retrieved at revision often show patterns and severity of damage neither seen nor predicted from standard wear simulator testing. We hypothesized that this is because these implants are exposed to combinations of loads and motions that are more damaging than the simple loading profiles utilized in laboratory testing. We examined the magnitude, direction, and combination of forces and moments acting on the knee during various activities in order to guide the future development and testing of high-performance knee replacements.

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is said to be a condition of middle-aged women. Our experience is that it more commonly occurs in older people and also in a younger working population. The aim of this study is to describe the epidemiology of CTS requiring carpal tunnel decompression (CTD).

Over a 10.5 year period 3073 CTD were performed on 2309 patients aged 15 – 93 years. This included all public, private and ACC funded cases in our region. During this period we had no restriction to access to CTD as all publicly funded cases were performed under local anaesthetic in a day surgery unit. Neurophysiological studies were performed pre-operatively by the same neurophysiologist. Population data from the national census (2006) was used to calculate the annual incidence of patients requiring CTD for each 5 year age band.

There were 1418 females (61.4%) and 891 males (38.6 %). In contrast females comprised 116 of 306 (37.8%) patients who had their surgery funded by ACC. The mean age at surgery was 45 years for ACC cases compared with 56 years for non-ACC funded cases. The incidence of males having surgery funded by ACC was 1.7 times higher than females.

There was a biphasic pattern in females with an incidence of 3.0/1000 at age 50–54 years, and a second higher peak of 3.1 to 3.4/1000 from 70 to 5 years. Males had a linear increase in incidence peaking at 3.1/1000 for age 65–69 years declining slightly to 2.8/1000 for age 70–85 years. The incidence was significantly higher in females than males overall (1.8 v 1.1/1000) and in patients under 65 years (1.4 v 0.8/1000). In patients over 65 years there was no significant difference in incidence (female 2.8, male 2.5/1000).

Within our region, the incidence of surgically treated carpal tunnel syndrome increases with age. The highest rates are seen over the age of 70 in women and 65 years in men with no significant difference in rates between men or women over 65 years.

Open cheilectomy is an established surgical treatment for hallux rigidus. Cheilectomy is now being performed using minimally invasive (MIS) techniques. In this prospective study we report the outcome of minimally invasive cheilectomy comparing the results with a matched group who had cheilectomy using standard open procedure

The royal victoria hospital is a tertiary trauma centre receiving pelvic injury referrals for a population of 1.7 million. The use of ilio-sacral screw fixation with low anterior frame stabilisation has been adopted as the principle treatment for unstable pelvic ring injuries in our institution. We aim to describe our practice and outcomes following the use of percutaneous screw fixation of the pelvis.

The review included standardised assessment of health-related quality of life (SF-36) as well as the Iowa pelvic score and Majeed pelvic injury outcome scores. Data was also collected on associated injuries, post-operative complications, nerve injury and pain scores.

A total case series of 45 patients undergoing percutaneous ilio-sacral screw fixation following traumatic pelvic injury were identified over a 5 year period. Of these 23 were contactable to follow-up or responded to questionnaire review.

The mean follow up was 680 days (range 151–1962). The mean age was 33 (range 18–57).

The mean SF-36 physical and mental scores were 38 and 46 respectively. The mean Majeed score was 69 and Iowa pelvic score was 65. The mean pain score was 3.5 (range 0–7). There were no incidences of deep infection, post-operative PE or nerve injury related to screw insertion.

Patients with isolated pelvic injuries performed better on outcome scoring however the low SF-36 scores highlight the severity of pelvic injuries

Introduction

Stem geometry is known to influence the outcome in THA; however it is unknown whether the material properties, stiffness in particular can influence the stem stability and outcome. The aim of this study was to measure the influence of stem material properties on micromotion and migration using Roentgen Stereophotogrammetric Analysis (RSA) system.

Background

Replacing bone lost as a consequence of trauma or disease is a major challenge in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. Tissue engineering strategies seek to harness the potential of stem cells to regenerate lost or damaged tissue. Bone marrow aspirate (BMA) provides a promising autologous source of skeletal stem cells (SSCs) however, previous studies have demonstrated that the concentration of SSCs required for robust tissue regeneration is below levels present in iliac crest BMA, emphasising the need for cell enrichment strategies prior to clinical application.

Introduction

This study was undertaken to evaluate the early results of a new implant system - the metaphyseal sleeve - in revision total knee replacement. The femoral and tibial metaphyseal sleeves are a modular option designed to deal with metaphyseal bone loss and achieve cementless fixation over a relatively wide area in the metaphysis.

Background

Skeletal stem cells (SSCs) have been used for the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head to prevent subsequent collapse. In isolation SSCs do not provide structural support but an innovative case series in Southampton, UK, has used SSCs in combination with impaction bone grafting (IBG) to improve both the biological and mechanical environment and to regenerate new bone at the necrotic site.