Aims. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the rate of conversion to surgical release after a steroid injection in patients with a trigger finger, and to analyze which patient- and trigger finger-related factors affect the outcome of an injection. Methods. The medical records of 500 patients (754 fingers) treated for one or more trigger fingers with a steroid injection or with surgical release, between 1 January 2016 and 1 April 2020 with a follow-up of 12 months, were analyzed. Conversion to surgical release was recorded as an unsuccessful treatment after an injection. The effect of patient- and trigger finger-related characteristics on the outcome of an injection was assessed using stepwise manual backward multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results. Treatment with an injection was unsuccessful in 230 fingers (37.9%). Female sex (odds ratio (OR) 1.87 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.21 to 2.88)), Quinnell stage IV (OR 16.01 (95% CI 1.66 to 154.0)), heavy physical work (OR 1.60 (95% CI 0.96 to 2.67)), a third steroid injection (OR 2.02 (95% CI 1.06 to 3.88)), and having carpal tunnel syndrome (OR 1.59 (95% CI 0.98 to 2.59)) were associated with a higher risk of conversion to surgical release. In contrast, an older age (OR 0.98 (95% CI 0.96 to 0.99)), smoking (OR 0.39 (95% CI 0.24 to 0.64)), and polypharmacy (OR 0.39, CI 0.12 to 1.12) were associated with a lower risk of conversion. The regression model predicted 15.6% of the variance found for the outcome of the injection treatment (R. 2. > 0.25). Conclusion. Factors associated with a worse outcome following a steroid injection were identified and should be considered when choosing the treatment of a trigger finger. In women with a trigger finger, the choice of treatment should take into account whether there are also one or more patient- or trigger-related factors that increase the risk of conversion to surgery. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(10):1142–1147

To study in resolution of triggering 12 months after injection with either a soluble methylprednisolone acetate or dexamethasone for idiopathic trigger finger. Twenty-eight patients were enrolled in a prospective randomized controlled trial comparing methylprednisolone acetate and dexamethasone injection for idiopathic trigger finger. Twenty-seven patients completed the 6-week follow-up (11 methylprednisolone acetate arm, 16 dexamethasone arm) and thirteen patients completed the 3-month follow-up (4 methylprednisolone acetate arm, 9 dexamethasone arm). Outcome measures included resolution of triggering, recurrence rate of trigger finger, satisfaction on a visual analog scale, tender, snapping, locking, the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire and tip to palm distance (mm.) at 2, 6, 12 and 24 weeks follow-up. Eight patients were repeated a second injection (3 methylprednisolone acetate arm, 5 dexamethasone arm) at 6-week follow-up. To preserve autonomy, patients were permitted operative treatment any time. The analysis was according to intention to treat principles. Six weeks after injection. Absence of triggering was documented in 6 of 11 patients in the methylprednisolone cohort and in 6 of 16 patients in the dexamethasone cohort. The rate 3-month after injection were 2 of 4 patients in the methylprednisolone cohort and in 8 of 9 patients in the dexamethasone cohort. There were no significant difference between recurrence rate of trigger finger, satisfaction on a visual analog scale, tender, snapping, locking, the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scores and tip to palm distance (mm.) at 2, 6, 12 and 24 weeks follow-up. Although there were no differences 3months after injection, our data suggest that in the dexamethasone cohort was better in resolution of triggering than the methylprednisolone cohort at 12-week follow-up

Background. Steroid injections can be used safely to treat trigger fingers. We aimed to determine the accuracy of referring General Practitioner (GP) diagnoses of trigger finger made to an upper limb surgeon. We also aimed to determine the efficacy of a serial two steroid injection then surgery technique in the management of trigger fingers. Methods. Data was collected prospectively from a “one-stop” trigger finger clinic (based in a district general hospital). 200 trigger fingers identified from September 2005 to November 2008, giving a minimum 1 year follow-up. Data was analysed for correct referring diagnosis, resolution/recurrence rate following injection and the effect of age, injector grade, diabetes on the rate of recurrence. Results. GP diagnoses were correct in 94% of referrals. Recurrence free resolution after one steroid injection was achieved in 74% of cases, rising to 84% after a second injection. The grade of injector did not influence the rate of resolution (p=0.967) or recurrence (p=0.818). Age was the only statistically significant factor, with recurrences being 8.3 years younger (95% CI 4.1–12.6 yrs; p=0.0002). 15% required surgical release after failure of two steroid injections. Conclusions. Steroid injection for trigger finger is a safe, easily performed technique that can give recurrence free resolution in up to 84% using a serial two steroid injection technique. This is an easily acquired technique that has obvious potential to be performed in the primary care setting, thus reducing the burden on hospital based specialist upper limb services, as only 15% required surgical intervention

Introduction and Objectives: Release of the A1 pulley in trigger finger can be done by an open method or by a percutaneous technique using an intramuscular needle. The percutaneous technique results in resolution of trigger finger. However, a higher recurrence rate has been reported in adults as compared to the conventional open technique. To our knowledge no one has shown the efficacy of the percutaneous technique for release of the A1 pulley in children. For this reason, we have decided to study the efficacy and safety of the procedure. Materials and Methods: Since November 2002, two senior surgeons from the paediatric orthopaedic unit have treated 10 patients with trigger finger using the percutaneous technique. Study subjects were not selected. Rather, the study included the first 10 cases of fingers with this condition that presented for medical consultation. In all cases, the operation consisted of two surgical stages. The first stage consisted of percutaneous cutting of the pulley using the bevel of an intramuscular needle. The second stage immediately following involved open examination of the pulley, tendon, and adjacent neurovascular structures. Results: In the first surgical stage (percutaneous surgery) we were able to resolve clinical locking or tendinous nodules in all cases. In the second surgical stage (surgical examination), we observed the following: incomplete release of the pulley in 70% of cases, one case of flexor tendon laceration, and one case of minor lacerations of the neurovascular bundle. The condition did not recur in any of the patients. Discussion and Conclusions: In our hands, percutaneous surgery provides less control over release of the pulley and less control over possible iatrogenic damage to adjacent structures and does not allow us to forgo the use of general anaesthesia

Objective. Surgical treatment of trigger finger is usually performed as an outpatient surgery under local anesthesia n this study we present our results of surgical treatment of trigger finger performed with an ophthalmic knife which is less invasive for patient and easer for surgeon. Material and Method. 19 gauges microvitreoretinal ophthalmic knifes have a rhombus like edge with both sharp sides. The length of the knife's cutting side is 3 mm at each side. There were 40 women and 10 men with a mean age of 51.7 ± 5.7 (min: 40 max: 62). The thumb was involved in 32, the index finger in 10, and the middle in 8 patients. The procedure can be performed as an outpatient surgery under local anesthesia. The surface landmarks of the proximal and distal edges of the A1 pulley are marked on the skin. Percutaneous placement of a 25-gauge needle 5mm proximal to the PDC marked the distal extent of the release. The duration of procedure was under five minutes. Clinical examination was repeated on the postoperative 3rd day, 10th day and patients were re-examined or spoken to by telephone at a mean follow-up of 6.4 months. Results. Of the 50 digits treated, there was complete resolution of symptoms in 45 digits (90%). 3 thumbs had residual grade 1–2 triggering at the second follow up. 2 patients with locked trigger thumbs had persistent, despite relief of the triggering. Discussion. In this study we noted that percutaneous release with a 19 gauges MVR ophthalmic knife is a safe, cheap, quick, less scaring and comfortable treatment

Percutaneous A1 pulley release is being increasingly used as an alternative to open surgical release and injection of local steroids for the treatment of the trigger digit. We treated 43 patients, average age 57 years (range12-78). All trigger digits were grade III-IV (Quinnell classification). A mean duration of pre-operative symptoms was 7.3 months (range 2-13 months). A percutaneous release was performed with a 19-gauge hypodermic needle under local anaesthesia in the outpatient setting. All patients were evaluated with respect to clinical resolution of symptoms and general satisfaction. We report a 97% successful release and only one case of incomplete release. A result in terms of abolishing triggering was immediate and patient acceptance was excellent. By two weeks, all the patients had no pain at the operative site. After a mean follow-up of 30.2 months (range12-50), there had been no recurrences. There were no digital nerve injuries, flexor tendon injuries, and infections. The percutaneous release is a safe and effective technique, which provides significant cost savings. The time from onset of symptoms and grading prognostically is significant and affects the treatment outcome. We recommend the percutaneous technique for typical cases of trigger finger with a palpable nodule and reproducible mechanical triggering. This technique can be the treatment of choice for the established trigger finger (grade III and IV) with symptoms of more than few months' duration. The open technique is reserved for complicated cases such as florid tenosynovitis, locked digit, failed percutaneous release or those involving the thumb

Injection of corticosteroids into the digital flexor tendon sheath is an accepted and effective treatment for stenosing tenosynovitis. However, despite long historical experience with this procedure, there remains no guide in the literature as to the optimal dose of steroid. Furthermore, the accuracy of these injections has not been well established. Using a prospective, randomized, blinded design, this study compares the outcomes of high (20 mg) and low (10 mg) dose depomedrol injection. Furthermore, the accuracy of tendon sheath injections was assessed radiographically. The findings demonstrate increased effectiveness of the higher steroid dose and a significant learning curve associated with intra-thecal injections. Injection of corticosteroids into the digital flexor tendon sheath is an accepted and effective treatment for stenosing tenosynovitis (trigger finger). However, despite long historical experience with this procedure, there remains no guide in the literature as to the safe and effective dose of steroid to be administered. Furthermore, the accuracy of digital tendon sheath injections has not been well established. One study has suggested that steroid injected outside the tendon sheath was as effective as intra-thecal injection and may result in reduced complications of infection and tendon rupture. Using a prospective, blinded design, patients were randomized to receive either high (20 mg) or low (10 mg) dose depomedrol injection. The accuracy of the steroid injections was determined radiographically using non-ionic radio-opaque dye. Outcome measures included pain, tenderness, presence of a palpable nodule, triggering, and limitation of activities (work, hobbies, ADLs). Complications such as pain, stiffness, bruising, thinning of the fat or skin, infection and tendon rupture were also recorded. Higher dose depomedrol (20 mg) was found to be more effective for relieving pain and triggering than lower dose depomedrol (10 mg). No increase in complication rate was encountered. Stenosing tenosynovitis in diabetic patients was markedly less responsive to treatment. Injection accuracy was found to increase with clinical experience from approximately 50% for beginners to over 90% for experienced hand surgeons. At the time of submission of this abstract, patient numbers (currently forty-one participants) do not allow analysis regarding the effect of injection accuracy on clinical outcome

Aims

The paediatric trigger thumb is a distinct clinical entity with unique anatomical abnormalities. The aim of this study was to present the long-term outcomes of A1 pulley release in idiopathic paediatric trigger thumbs based on established patient-reported outcome measures.

Closed tenotomy was used to treat triggering of the fingers and thumb in 54 patients. In 56 digits the method was successful; in seven it was a simple matter to proceed to open tenotomy. With experience, the closed procedure can be completed within minutes without risk of damaging the digital nerves.

The December 2022 Wrist & Hand Roundup. 360. looks at: Anti-tumour necrosis factor therapy for early-stage Dupuytren’s disease; Patient experiences of scaphoid waist fractures and their treatment; Postoperative complications following open a1 pulley release for a trigger finger or thumb; How certain are findings in distal radius fractures: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials; Partial wrist denervation in wrist osteoarthritis: patient-reported outcomes and objective function; Dorsal bridge plating versus bridging external fixation for management of complex distal radius fractures; How is reduction lost in distal radius fractures in females aged 50 years and older; The HAND-Q: psychometrics of a new patient-reported outcome measure for clinical and research applications

The June 2023 Wrist & Hand Roundup. 360. looks at: Residual flexion deformity after scaphoid nonunion surgery: a seven-year follow-up study; The effectiveness of cognitive behavioural therapy for patients with concurrent hand and psychological disorders; Bite injuries to the hand and forearm: analysis of hospital stay, treatment, and costs; Outcomes of acute perilunate injuries - a systematic review; Abnormal MRI signal intensity of the triangular fibrocartilage complex in asymptomatic wrists; Patient comprehension of operative instructions with a paper handout versus a video: a prospective, randomized controlled trial; Can common hand surgeries be undertaken in the office setting?; The effect of corticosteroid injections on postoperative infections in trigger finger release

The February 2023 Wrist & Hand Roundup. 360. looks at: ‘Self-care’ protocol for minimally displaced distal radius fractures; Treatment strategies for acute Seymour fractures in children and adolescents: including crushed open fractures; Routinely collected outcomes of proximal row carpectomy; Moving minor hand surgeries in the office-based procedure room: a population-based trend analysis; A comparison between robotic-assisted scaphoid screw fixation and a freehand technique for acute scaphoid fracture: a randomized, controlled trial; Factors associated with conversion to surgical release after a steroid injection in patients with a trigger finger; Two modern total wrist arthroplasties: a randomized comparison; Triangular fibrocartilage complex suture repair reliable even in ulnar styloid nonunion

In-office surgeries have the potential to offer high quality medical care in a more efficient, cost-effective setting than outpatient surgical centers for certain procedures. The primary concerns with operating on patients in the office setting are insufficient sterility and lack of appropriate resources in case of excessive bleeding or other surgical complications. This study serves to investigate these concerns and determine whether in-office hand surgeries are safe and clinically effective. A retrospective review of patients who underwent minor hand operations in the office setting between December 2020 and December 2021 was performed. The surgical procedures included in this analysis are needle aponeurotomy, trigger finger release, mass/foreign body removal and reduction of hand/wrist fracture with or without percutaneous pinning. No major complications requiring extended observation or hospital admission occurred. 122 of the 132 patients (92.4%) were successfully treated with no complications and only mild symptoms within one month of surgery. Five patients (3.8%) returned to the office for pain, inflammation and/or stiffness of the affected finger, with two of the five returning due to osteoarthritis and/or pseudogout flare-ups. Five additional patients returned due to incomplete treatment with continued presence of Dupuytren's contracture (3), trigger finger (1) or infected foreign body (1). One patient (0.8%) developed infection, due to incomplete removal of an infected foreign body, which was subsequently treated with antibiotics and complete foreign body removal. The absence of major complications and high success rate for minor hand procedures shows the high degree of safety and efficacy which can be achieved via the in-office setting for select procedures. While proper patient selection is key, our result shows the in-office procedure room setting can offer the necessary elements of sterility and hemostatic support for several common hand surgeries

This study aims to determine the incidence of surgical site infection leading to reoperation for sepsis following minor hand procedures performed outside the main operating room using field sterility in the South African setting. The investigators retrospectively reviewed the records of 485 patients who had WALANT-assisted minor hand surgery outside a main operating theatre, a field sterility setting between March 2019 and April 2023. The primary outcome was the presence or absence of deep surgical site infection that required reoperation within four weeks. Cases included where elective WALANT minor hand procedures, a minimum age of 18 with complete clinical records. The patients were mostly female (54.8%), with a mean age of 56.35 years. The majority of cases were trigger finger and carpal tunnel release. An overall 485 cases were reviewed, the deep surgical site infection rate resulting in reoperation within 4 weeks post-operatively was 1.24% ((95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.0034 to 0.0237); p = 0.009). Minor hand procedures performed under field sterility using WALANT have a low surgical site infection rate. The current study's infection rates are comparable to international surgical site infection rates for similar surgeries performed in main operating rooms using standard sterilisation procedures. Field sterility is a safe and acceptable clinical practice that may improve work efficiency in public sector

In the field of hand surgery, physicians are working to improve patient satisfaction by offering several minor procedures in the physician's office via the WALANT method. We seek to investigate the degree of patient satisfaction, out of pocket cost, convenience and comfort experienced with in-office hand procedures. A ten question survey consisting of a ten-point Likert scale of agreement and questions asking for a numerical answer was administered via phone call to 33 patients treated with minor hand operations in the office setting in the United States. There were 18 male and 15 female respondents with an average age of 65.59±12.64 years. Respondents underwent procedures including trigger finger release (18), needle aponeurotomy (7), and other minor hand operations. Survey responses indicated strong agreement with questions 1-3 and 6–8, with responses averaging 9.60±0.23 in these positive metrics. Questions 4 and 5, which asked whether the surgery and recovery period were painful, respectively, averaged 2.65±0.49, indicating a mild level of disagreement that either was “painful”. Additionally, most patients responded that they did not take time off work (12) or are not currently employed (11). Other respondents (3) reported taking between one to five days off work post-operatively. 27 respondents also reported an out of pocket cost averaging $382±$976, depending on insurance coverage. Patients reported a small degree of pain in the operative and post-operative period, a high degree of comfort and convenience and a high degree of satisfaction. Likewise, the patient-reported out of pocket cost was far lower than comparable surgical costs in alternate settings. These results support the use of in-office procedures for minor hand surgeries from a patient perspective and indicate a nearly universal intent to repeat any future hand operations in the office setting

The August 2015 Wrist & Hand Roundup360 looks at: Scaphoid screws out?; Stiff fingers under the spotlight; Trigger finger: is complexity needed?; Do we really need to replace the base of the thumb?; Scapholunate ligament injuries and their treatment: a missed research opportunity?; Proximal row carpectomy versus four-corner arthrodesis

The April 2012 Wrist & Hand Roundup. 360 . looks at releasing the trigger finger, function in the osteoarthritic hand, complex regional pain syndrome, arthroscopic ligamentoplasty for the injured scapholunate ligament, self-concept and upper limb deformities in children, wrist arthroscopy in children, internal or external fixation for the fractured distal radius, nerve grafting, splinting the PIPJ contracture, and finding the stalk of a dorsal wrist ganglion

Trigger finger is one of the most common problems presenting to hand clinics in the UK. Traumatic and compressive forces created through digital movement leads to thickening of the flexor tendon sheath. The most successful methods used to treat trigger finger are corticosteroid injection and surgical release. The ring, thumb and middle finger are the most frequently affected digits. The incidence of multiple digits being affected is between 20% and 24%, with a higher incidence in Diabetes Mellitus sufferers. We report a case of failed injection therapy in a patient with multiple trigger digits, review the literature and advocate the use of surgical release as a first line treatment option in those patients with multiply involved digits

We describe a safe and easy percutaneous technique for release of trigger finger using a specially designed knife. The A1 pulley is sectioned by a blade which has a hooked end. We released, percutaneously, 185 trigger fingers, including 62 which were locked using this technique. Satisfactory results were achieved in 173 (93.5%). There were no significant complications. We recommend this as a safe and effective outpatient procedure for those patients who have not responded successfully to conservative treatment, have longstanding symptoms or severe triggering

Aims

In the UK, the NHS generates an estimated 25 megatonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents (4% to 5% of the nation’s total carbon emissions) and produces over 500,000 tonnes of waste annually. There is limited evidence demonstrating the principles of sustainability and its benefits within orthopaedic surgery. The primary aim of this study was to analyze the environmental impact of orthopaedic surgery and the environmentally sustainable initiatives undertaken to address this. The secondary aim of this study was to describe the barriers to making sustainable changes within orthopaedic surgery.

Aim: To assess the efficacy of percutaneous needle bursting and limited percutaneous pulley division in the treatment of seed ganglia. Methods: A prospective cohort study was run. All patients in the study had ganglia bursting by lignocaine injection. If this failed a limited percutaneous release was performed as at open release for trigger finger. Results: There were 52 patients treated over a four-year period. 31 were female and 21 male with an average age of 37 years. The fingers involved were: index (6), middle (21), ring (19), little (5) and thumb (1). Complications were 3 patients with mild stiffness at review (6 months, 1year and 2years), and one digital nerve injury. Conclusions: Burst alone works in 50% of patients. Percutaneous release is effective in 69% of patients. It appears to be a safe and reliable alternative to open surgery, especially if restricted to midline lesions

Aims

The antidiabetic agent metformin inhibits fibrosis in various organs. This study aims to elucidate the effects of hyperglycaemia and metformin on knee joint capsule fibrosis in mice.

Aims

Traumatic central cord syndrome (CCS) typically follows a hyperextension injury and results in motor impairment affecting the upper limbs more than the lower, with occasional sensory impairment and urinary retention. Current evidence on mortality and long-term outcomes is limited. The primary aim of this study was to assess the five-year mortality of CCS, and to determine any difference in mortality between management groups or age.

Long-term regular haemodialysis for chronic renal failure is associated with amyloidosis. In this condition excess amounts of the unexcretable plasma protein beta-microglobulin are laid down in tendons, joints and bones. Amyloidosis presents with various musculoskeletal disorders only after several years of dialysis. We reviewed 83 patients who had been dialysed for at least 10 years. The commonest complaint was severe joint pain in the absence of radiological changes of arthritis (41%), the shoulders usually being the most affected (33%). Carpal tunnel syndrome had developed in 26 patients, and was bilateral in 14 of them; at operation the presence of amyloid was confirmed. Six of these patients had recurrent symptoms after a further two to three years and required another decompression. Other manifestations of amyloidosis included trigger finger, flexor tendon contracture, spontaneous tendon rupture and pathological fracture through amyloid bone cysts. The frequency of symptoms was proportional to the duration of dialysis: all 13 patients on dialysis for over 20 years were affected. Symptoms developed earlier in older patients

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine which factors may influence in the outcome of the surgical treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). Material and Methods: During 2005, 175 patients were treated with the diagnosis of CTS by open carpal release (short palmar incision) without ligament reconstruction. 113 cases were selected: 39 males and 74 females, with an average age of 41 years (21 to 64 years) and a follow-up of 24 months (12–36 months). The dominant hand was treated in 58%. The subcutaneous cellular tissue (SCT) was sutured in 14% and 11% were immobilized with a cast for 2 weeks after surgery. We considered factors such as: systemic conditions, functional work requirement, preoperative time, surgical technique, and their correlation with complications, clinical outcome and time to return to work and activity level. Results: Complications: 41% pillar pain, 9% suture dehiscence, 3,5% ulnar neuritis, 1,7% trigger finger, 1,7% reflex sympathetic dystrophy, and 1,8% wound infection. 5 patients were re-operated. Complications rate due to surgery was 3,5% after 12 months of follow-up. The average time out of work was 9 weeks (2–43 weeks) and was higher (13 weeks) in patients with post-operative immobilization. All patients, except one, returned to their previous activity level. History of systemic conditions and dominance had not influence on the final outcome. The suture of the SCT and the postoperative immobilization showed lower wound dehiscence and pillar pain cases. Conclusions: The surgical treatment of the CTS provides good clinical and labour results. Patients with suture of the SCT and cast immobilization show less post-operative surgical complications

Introduction: The choice of whether to use absorbable or non-absorbable suture in the closure of wounds following hand or upper limb surgery is usually surgeon dependent. In our unit both continuous absorbable subcutaneous suture and interrupted non-absorbable suture are utilised. The use of absorbable sutures offers a potential advantage to the patient and clinician in not requiring a clinic appointment for suture removal. The quality and aesthetic appearance of hand and upper limb surgical scars are of great importance to patients. Few studies have compared the aesthetic appearance of scars following the use of absorbable and non-absorbable suture in hand and upper limb surgical wound closure. Method: 50 consecutive patients having undergone day case hand surgery between August 2007 and May 2008 with absorbable suture wound closure were identified along with 50 consecutive patients over the same time period who underwent non-absorbable wound closure. Each was sent a questionnaire comprising a visual analogue scale (VAS) for wound satisfaction, a validated 6 point patient scar assessment tool and the short version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (QuickDASH). Results: 100 patients were contacted by post and 70 responses were received (37 absorbable, 33 non-absorbable). Both groups had undergone a similar spectrum of procedures including carpal tunnel decompression, Dupuytrens fasciectomy, excision of lesions and trigger finger release. Age, sex and QuickDASH scores were not significantly different between groups. Mean VAS was not significantly different between groups (Non-absorbable group 82.4 (95% CI 74.7–90.2) Absorbable group 80.4 (95% CI 71.9–89.0)). No significant difference was found between groups in terms of pain, itching, scar colour, stiffness, thickness or irregularity. Conclusion: No significant difference in aesthetic appearance of scars exists following the closure of hand and upper limb wounds with either absorbable or non-absorbable suture. Either suture material can be used with confidence with respect to aesthetic outcome

Objective: This article describes the outcome of a nurseled service developed to manage patients referred with a presumptive diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome. We also describe the implementation of a nurse-led preoperative assessment and postoperative care clinic. Design: We assess the safety, efficacy and outcomes of 402 patients referred to the Department of Orthopaedic, University Hospital Lewisham for carpal tunnel decompression surgery prospectively. Patients and Methods: The service was developed around the role of a nurse practitioner providing a single practitioner pathway from first clinic appointment to discharge. General practitioners were advised of the service and the criteria for referral, which included patients with symptoms and physical signs, and some response to conservative treatment. Patients were assessed in the nurse-led preoperative assessment clinic and those deemed suitable for surgery were listed for operation. Results: 12.7 % patients (51 patients) were referred for electromyographic studies and 5.2% patients (21 patients) were referred to doctors for further consultations. Only 4 patients had trigger finger and a further 4 patients had De Quervians syndrome. Of the remaining 373 patients, 7 patients (1.8%) choose to wait before considering surgery, and 2 patients (0.5%) declined surgery. Waiting times improved considerably whilst the standard and quality of care was maintained. Conclusions: We developed a rapid-access service in response to unacceptable waiting times for patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. Implementing such a clinic improved access to care for patients with this particular problem. The safety and efficacy of the program and patient-centred outcomes commend its adaptation and implementation to other institutions. As the clinical diagnosis of Carpal tunnel syndrome is often easily made, a system of direct referral for carpal tunnel surgery was introduced. The service was an alternative to standard consultants’ outpatient referral. Direct access to a nurse-led carpal tunnel syndrome assessment clinic works well and it will reduce delays and the costs of treatment. Adequate patient information is vital to make the best of the service. There is a role for nurses to perform certain clinic within a well-defined environment

Aims

Patients with a triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injury report ulnar-sided wrist pain and impaired function. The surgical procedure of TFCC reinsertion aims to improve function in patients with this injury in whom conservative treatment has failed. The purpose of this study was to investigate the outcomes of open TFCC reinsertion.

Aims

To evaluate safety outcomes and patient satisfaction of the re-introduction of elective orthopaedic surgery on ‘green’ (non-COVID-19) sites during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Aims

Few studies have examined the long-term outcome of carpal tunnel release (CTR). The aim of this study was to evaluate the patient-reported long-term outcome of CTR for electrophysiologically severe carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).

The mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are a group of inherited lysosomal storage disorders with clinical manifestations relevant to the orthopaedic surgeon. Our aim was to review the recent advances in their management and the implications for surgical practice.

The current literature about MPSs is summarised, emphasising orthopaedic complications and their management.

Recent advances in the diagnosis and management of MPSs include the recognition of slowly progressive, late presenting subtypes, developments in life-prolonging systemic treatment and potentially new indications for surgical treatment. The outcomes of surgery in these patients are not yet validated and some procedures have a high rate of complications which differ from those in patients who do not have a MPS.

The diagnosis of a MPS should be considered in adolescents or young adults with a previously unrecognised dysplasia of the hip. Surgeons treating patients with a MPS should report their experience and studies should include the assessment of function and quality of life to guide treatment.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:1132–9

The United States and Canada are in the midst of an epidemic of the use, misuse and overdose of opioids, and deaths related to overdose. This is the direct result of overstatement of the benefits and understatement of the risks of using opioids by advocates and pharmaceutical companies. Massive amounts of prescription opioids entered the community and were often diverted and misused. Most other parts of the world achieve comparable pain relief using fewer opioids.

The misconceptions about opioids that created this epidemic are finding their way around the world. There is particular evidence of the increased prescription of strong opioids in Europe.

Opioids are addictive and dangerous. Evidence is mounting that the best pain relief is obtained through resilience. Opioids are often prescribed when treatments to increase resilience would be more effective.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:856–64.

Aims

Our purpose was to determine the quality of current randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in hand surgery using standardised metrics.

Diabetes mellitus is recognised as a risk factor for carpal tunnel syndrome. The response to treatment is unclear, and may be poorer than in non-diabetic patients. Previous randomised studies of interventions for carpal tunnel syndrome have specifically excluded diabetic patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiology of carpal tunnel syndrome in diabetic patients, and compare the outcome of carpal tunnel decompression with non-diabetic patients. The primary endpoint was improvement in the QuickDASH score. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus was 11.3% (176 of 1564). Diabetic patients were more likely to have severe neurophysiological findings at presentation. Patients with diabetes had poorer QuickDASH scores at one year post-operatively (p = 0.028), although the mean difference was lower than the minimal clinically important difference for this score. After controlling for underlying differences in age and gender, there was no difference between groups in the magnitude of improvement after decompression (p = 0.481). Patients with diabetes mellitus can therefore be expected to enjoy a similar improvement in function.

Objectives

To investigate the appropriate dose and interval for the administration of triamcinolone acetonide (TA) in treating tendinopathy to avoid adverse effects such as tendon degeneration and rupture.

The April 2013 Shoulder & Elbow Roundup³⁶⁰ looks at: biceps, pressure and instability; chronic acromio-clavicular joint instability; depression and shoulder pain; shoulder replacement and transfusion; cuff integrity and function; iatropathic plexus injury; the accuracy of acromio-clavicular joint injection; and tennis as a risk factor for tennis elbow.

The purpose of this study was to compare the outcome and complications of endoscopic versus open release for the treatment of de Quervain’s tenosynovitis. Patients with this condition were randomised to undergo either endoscopic (n = 27) or open release (n = 25). Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain and Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores were measured at 12 and 24 weeks after surgery. Scar satisfaction was measured using a VAS scale. The mean pain and DASH scores improved significantly at 12 weeks and 24 weeks (p <  0.001) in both groups. The scores were marginally lower in the endoscopic group compared to the open group at 12 weeks (p = 0.012 and p = 0.002, respectively); however, only the DASH score showed a clinically important difference. There were no differences between the groups at 24 weeks. The mean VAS scar satisfaction score was higher in the endoscopic group at 24 weeks (p < 0.001). Transient superficial radial nerve injury occurred in three patients in the endoscopic group compared with nine in the open release group (p = 0.033).

We conclude that endoscopic release for de Quervain’s tenosynovitis seems to provide earlier improvement after surgery, with fewer superficial radial nerve complications and greater scar satisfaction, when compared with open release.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:947–51.

The osteoinductive properties of demineralised bone matrix have been demonstrated in animal studies. However, its therapeutic efficacy has yet to be proven in humans. The clinical properties of AlloMatrix, an injectable calcium-based demineralised bone matrix allograft, were studied in a prospective randomised study of 50 patients with an isolated unstable distal radial fracture treated by reduction and Kirschner (K-) wire fixation. A total of 24 patients were randomised to the graft group (13 men and 11 women, mean age 42.3 years (20 to 62)) and 26 to the no graft group (8 men and 18 women, mean age 45.0 years (17 to 69)).

At one, three, six and nine weeks, and six and 12 months post-operatively, patients underwent radiological evaluation, assessments for range of movement, grip and pinch strength, and also completed the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire. At one and six weeks and one year post-operatively, bone mineral density evaluations of both wrists were performed.

No significant difference in wrist function and speed of recovery, rate of union, complications or bone mineral density was found between the two groups. The operating time was significantly higher in the graft group (p = 0.004). Radiologically, the reduction parameters remained similar in the two groups and all AlloMatrix extraosseous leakages disappeared after nine weeks.

This prospective randomised controlled trial did not demonstrate a beneficial effect of AlloMatrix demineralised bone matrix in the treatment of this category of distal radial fractures treated by K-wire fixation.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1514–20.

We have developed an illustrated questionnaire, the Hand20, comprising 20 short and easy-to-understand questions to assess disorders of the upper limb. We have examined the usefulness of this questionnaire by comparing reliability, validity, responsiveness and the level of missing data with those of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire.

A series of 431 patients with disorders of the upper limb completed the Hand20 and the Japanese version of the DASH (DASH-JSSH) questionnaire. The norms for Hand20 scores were determined in another cross-sectional study.

Most patients had no difficulty in completing the Hand20 questionnaire, whereas the DASH-JSSH had a significantly higher rate of missing data. The standard score for the Hand20 was smaller than the reported norms for the DASH.

Our study showed that the Hand20 questionnaire provided validation comparable with that of the DASH-JSSH. Explanatory illustrations and short questions which were easy-to-understand led to better rates of response and fewer missing data, even in elderly individuals with cognitive deterioration.