This systematic review aimed to summarize the full range of complications reported following ankle arthroscopy and the frequency at which they occur. A computer-based search was performed in PubMed, Embase, Emcare, and ISI Web of Science. Two-stage title/abstract and full-text screening was performed independently by two reviewers. English-language original research studies reporting perioperative complications in a cohort of at least ten patients undergoing ankle arthroscopy were included. Complications were pooled across included studies in order to derive an overall complication rate. Quality assessment was performed using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine levels of evidence classification.Aims
Methods
Preoperative talar valgus deformity increases the technical difficulty of total ankle replacement (TAR) and is associated with an increased failure rate. Deformity of ≥15° has been reported to be a contraindication to arthroplasty. The goal of the present study was to determine whether the operative procedures and clinical outcomes of TAR for treatment of end-stage ankle arthritis were comparable for patients with preoperative talar valgus deformity of ≥15° as compared to those with <15°. We will describe the evolving surgical technique being utilized to tackle these challenging cases. Fifty ankles with preoperative coronal-plane tibiotalar valgus deformity of ≥15° “valgus” group) and 50 ankles with valgus deformity of <15° (“control” group) underwent TAR. The cohorts were similar with respect to demographics and components used. All TARs were performed by a single surgeon. The mean duration of clinical follow-up was 5.5 years (minimum two years). Preoperative and postoperative radiographic measurements of coronal-plane deformity, Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale (AOS) scores and Short Form (SF)-36 scores were prospectively recorded. All ancillary (intraoperative) and secondary procedures, complications and measurements were collected. The AOS pain and disability subscale scores decreased significantly in both groups. The improvement in AOS and SF-36 scores did not differ significantly between the groups at the time of the final follow-up. The valgus group underwent more ancillary procedures during the index surgery (80% vs 26%). Tibio-talar deformity improved significantly toward a normal weight-bearing axis in the valgus group. Secondary postoperative procedures were more common in the valgus group (36%) than the controls (20%). Overall, re-operation was not associated with poorer patient outcome scores. Metal component revision surgery occurred in seven patients (three valgus and four controls). These revisions included two deep infections (2%), one in each group, which were converted to hindfoot fusions. Therefore, 94% of the valgus group retained their original components at final follow-up Thus far, this is the largest reported study that specifically evaluates TAR with significant preoperative valgus alignment, in addition to having the longest follow-up. Satisfactory midterm results were achieved in patients with valgus mal-alignment of ≥15°. The valgus cohort required more procedures during and after their TAR, as well as receiving more novel techniques to balance their TAR. Whilst longer term studies are needed, valgus coronal-plane alignment of ≥15° should not be considered an absolute contraindication to TAR if the associated deformities are addressed.
Multiligament knee injuries (MLKI) are rare and life-altering injuries that remain difficult to treat clinically due to a paucity of evidence guiding surgical management and timing. The purpose of this study was to compare injury specific functional outcomes following early versus delayed surgical reconstruction in MLKI patients to help inform timing decisions in clinical practice. A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from patients with MLKIs at a single academic level 1-trauma center was conducted. Patients were eligible for inclusion if they had an MLKI, underwent reconstructive surgery either prior to 6wks from injury or between 12weeks and 2 years from injury, and had at least 12months of post-surgical follow-up. Patients with a vascular injury, open injuries or associated fractures were excluded. Study participants were stratified into early (12 weeks - 2 years from injury). The primary outcome was patient reported, injury specific, quality of life in the form of the Multiligament Quality of Life questionnaire (MLQOL) and its four domains (Physical Impairment, Emotional Impairment, Activity Limitations and Societal Involvement). We secondarily analyzed differences in the need for manipulation under anesthesia, and reoperation rates, as well as radiographic Kellgren Lawrence (KL) arthritis grades, knee laxity grading and range of motion at the most recent follow-up. A total of 131 patients met our inclusion criteria, all having had surgery between 2006 and 2019. There were 75 patients in the early group and 56 in the delayed group. The mean time to surgery was 17.6 ± 8.0 days in the early group versus 279 ± 146.5 days in the delayed. Mean postoperative follow-up was 58 months. There were no significant differences between early and delayed groups with respect to age (34 vs. 32.8 years), sex (77% vs 63% male), BMI (28.3 vs 29.7 kg/m2), or injury mechanism (p>0.05). The early surgery group was found to include more patients with lateral sided injuries (n=49 [65%] vs. n=23 [41%]; p=0.012), a higher severity of Schenck Classification (p=0.024) as well as nerve injuries at initial presentation (n=35 [49%] vs n=8 [18%]; p0.05), when controlling for age, sex, Schenck classification, medial versus lateral injury, and nerve injury status. In terms of our secondary outcomes, we found that the early group underwent significantly more manipulations under anesthesia compare with the delayed group (n=24, [32%] vs n=8 [14%], p=0.024). We did not identify a significant difference in physical examination laxity grades, range of motion, KL grade or reoperation rates between groups (p>0.05). We found no difference in patient reported outcomes between those who underwent early versus delayed surgery following MLKI reconstruction. In our secondary outcomes, we found significantly more patients in the early surgery group required a manipulation under anesthesia following surgery, which may indicate a propensity for arthrofibrosis after early MLKI reconstruction.
There is limited literature on the effects of socioeconomic factors on outcomes after total ankle arthroplasty (TAA). In the setting of hip or knee arthroplasty, patients of a lower socioeconomic status demonstrate poorer post-operative satisfaction, longer lengths of stay, and larger functional limitations. It is important to ascertain whether this phenomenon is present in ankle arthritis patients. This is the first study to address the weight of potential socioeconomic factors in affecting various socioeconomic classes, in terms of how they benefit from ankle arthroplasty. This is retrospective cohort study of 447 patients who underwent a TAA. Primary outcomes included pre-operative and final follow-up AAOS pain, AAOS disability, and SF-36 scores. We then used postal codes to determine median household income using Canadian 2015 census data. Incomes were divided into five groups based on equal amounts over the range of incomes. This method has been used to study medical conditions such as COPD and cardiac disease. These income groups were then compared for differences in outcome measures. Statistical analysis was done using unpaired t-test. A total of 447 patients were divided into quintiles by income. From lowest income to highest income, the groups had 54, 207, 86, 64, and 36 patients, respectively. The average time from surgery to final follow up was 85.6 months. Interestingly, we found that patients within the middle household income groups had significantly lower AAOS disability scores compared to the lowest income groups at final follow-up (26.41 vs 35.70, p=0.035). Furthermore, there was a trend towards middle income households and lower post-operative AAOS pain scores compared to the lowest income group (19.57 vs 26.65, p=0.063). There was also a trend toward poorer AAOS disability scores when comparing middle income groups to high income groups post-operatively (26.41 vs 32.27, p=0.058). Pre-operatively, patients within the middle-income group had more pain, compared to the lowest and the highest income groups. No significant differences in SF-36 scores were observed. There were no significant differences seen in middle income groups compared to the highest income group for AAOS pain post-operatively. There were no significant differences found in pre-operative AAOS disability score between income groups. Patients from middle income groups who have undergone TAA demonstrate poorer function and possibly more pain, compared to lower and higher income groups. This suggests that TAA is a viable option for lower socioeconomic groups and should not be a source of discouragement for surgeons. In this circumstance there is no real disparity between the rich and the poor. Further investigation is needed to explore reasons for diminished performance in middle class patients.
Multiligament knee injuries (MLKI) are rare and life-altering injuries that remain difficult to treat clinically due to a paucity of evidence guiding surgical management and timing. The purpose of this study was to compare injury specific functional outcomes following early versus delayed surgical reconstruction in MLKI patients to help inform timing decisions in clinical practice. A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from patients with MLKIs at a single academic level 1-trauma center was conducted. Patients were eligible for inclusion if they had an MLKI, underwent reconstructive surgery either prior to 6wks from injury or between 12weeks and 2 years from injury, and had at least 12months of post-surgical follow-up. Patients with a vascular injury, open injuries or associated fractures were excluded. Study participants were stratified into early (<6wks from injury) and delayed surgical intervention (>12 weeks – 2 years from injury). The primary outcome was patient reported, injury specific, quality of life in the form of the Multiligament Quality of Life questionnaire (MLQOL) and its four domains (Physical Impairment, Emotional Impairment, Activity Limitations and Societal Involvement). We secondarily analyzed differences in the need for manipulation under anesthesia, and reoperation rates, as well as radiographic Kellgren Lawrence (KL) arthritis grades, knee laxity grading and range of motion at the most recent follow-up. A total of 131 patients met our inclusion criteria, all having had surgery between 2006 and 2019. There were 75 patients in the early group and 56 in the delayed group. The mean time to surgery was 17.6 ± 8.0 days in the early group versus 279 ± 146.5 days in the delayed. Mean postoperative follow-up was 58 months. There were no significant differences between early and delayed groups with respect to age (34 vs. 32.8 years), sex (77% vs 63% male), BMI (28.3 vs 29.7 kg/m2), or injury mechanism (p>0.05). The early surgery group was found to include more patients with lateral sided injuries (n=49 [65%] vs. n=23 [41%]; p=0.012), a higher severity of Schenck Classification (p=0.024) as well as nerve injuries at initial presentation (n=35 [49%] vs n=8 [18%]; p<0.001). Multivariable linear regression analyses of the four domains of the MLQOL did not demonstrate an independent association with early versus delayed surgery status (p>0.05), when controlling for age, sex, Schenck classification, medial versus lateral injury, and nerve injury status. In terms of our secondary outcomes, we found that the early group underwent significantly more manipulations under anesthesia compare with the delayed group (n=24, [32%] vs n=8 [14%], p=0.024). We did not identify a significant difference in physical examination laxity grades, range of motion, KL grade or reoperation rates between groups (p>0.05). We found no difference in patient reported outcomes between those who underwent early versus delayed surgery following MLKI reconstruction. In our secondary outcomes, we found significantly more patients in the early surgery group required a manipulation under anesthesia following surgery, which may indicate a propensity for arthrofibrosis after early MLKI reconstruction.
Outcomes following carpal tunnel release are generally favorable. Understanding factors that contribute to inferior outcomes may allow for strategies targeted at improving results in these patients. Our purpose was to determine if patients' underlying personality traits, specifically resiliency and catastrophization, impact their post-operative outcomes following carpal tunnel release. A prospective case series was performed. Based on our power analysis, 102 patients were recruited. Patients completed written consent, the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ), the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) and the Brief Resiliency Scale (BRS). A single surgeon, or his resident under supervision, then performed an open carpal release under local anaesthetic. Our primary outcome measure was a repeat BCTQ at three- and six-months. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed to assess the correlation between PCS and BRS scores and final BCTQ scores. Forty-three and sixty-three participants completed the BCTQ at three and six months respectively. All patients showed improvement in their symptoms (p = 0.001). There was no correlation between patients PCS or BRS and the amount of improvement. There was also no correlation between PCS or BRS and the patients' raw scores at baseline or follow-up. Patients self-assessed resiliency and degree of pain catastrophization has no correlation with the amount of improvement they have three or six months post-operatively. Most patients improved following carpal tunnel release, and patients with low resiliency and high levels of pain catastrophization should expect comparable outcomes to patients without these features.
Fibular head avulsion fractures represent a significant injury to the posterolateral corner of the knee. There is a high rate of concomitant injuries including rupture of the cruciate ligaments. Surgical fixation is indicated to restore stability, protect repaired or reconstructed cruciate ligaments and possibly decrease the likelihood of degenerative change. The current presentation describes a novel technique which provides secure fixation to the fibular head, restoring integrity of the posterolateral ligament complex and facilitating early motion. We also present a case series of our experience by a single surgeon at our tertiary referral center. Twenty patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation between 2006 and 2016 using a large fragment cannulated screw and soft tissue washer inserted obliquely from the proximal fibula to tibia. Fixation was augmented with suture repair of the lateral collateral ligament and biceps tendon. The orientation of the fracture was assessed based on preoperative imaging. Repair / reconstruction of concomitant injuries was performed during the same procedure. Early range of motion was initiated at 2 weeks postoperatively under physical therapy guidance. All patients returned for clinical and radiographic assessment (average 3.5 years). All fractures went on to bony union. There were no reoperations for recurrent instability. All patients regained functional range of motion with mean extension of 0.94 degrees and mean flexion of 121.4 degrees. Two patients underwent hardware removal. One patient developed a late local infection, which occurred greater than 5 years after surgery. Eleven patients underwent postoperative varus stress radiographs which demonstrated less than 1 mm difference between the operated and contralateral side. Fracture morphology typically demonstrated an oblique pattern in the coronal plane and a transverse pattern in the sagittal plane. This study represents a novel surgical technique for the repair of fibular head avulsion fractures with a large fragment cannulated screw placed obliquely from the fibula to tibia. Fixation is augmented with a soft tissue washer and suture repair. Our results suggest that this technique allows for early range of motion with maintenance of reduction, high rates of union, and excellent postoperative stability.
The risk of hip dislocation after revision total hip arthroplasty is up to 20% following surgery for periprosthetic fractures. A technique was developed by the senior authors, involving a transtrochanteric osteotomy and superior capsulotomy to attempt to minimise this risk(1). This prospective study examines a cohort of 40 patients undergoing this novel technique, which involves extending the fracture proximally to the tip of the greater trochanter. This is then extended into the soft tissues in the mid lateral plane as a split of the glutei and a minimally superior capsulotomy (preserving the anterior and posterior capsule). This allows for revision of the femoral component, and retention of the socket and liner. The outcomes of interest to the authors were dislocation rates, clinical outcome measured using the Oxford hip score. These were assessed along with X-ray imaging at 1, 2 and 5-year intervals to confirm fracture union and measure stem subsidence.Introduction
Methods
Satisfaction following total knee replacement (TKR) surgery remains suboptimal at around 80%. Prediction of factors influencing satisfaction may help manage expectations and thus improve satisfaction. We investigated preoperative variables that estimate the probability of achieving a successful surgical outcome following TKR in several outcomes important to patients. 9 pre-operative variables (easily obtained on initial consultation) of 591 unilateral TKRs were selected for univariant then multivariant analyses. These variables included Oxford Knee Score (OKS), age, sex, BMI, ASA score, pain score, mobility aids, SF12 PCS & SF12 MCS. Using the relative predictive strengths of these variables we modeled the probabilities a successful result would be achieved for 6 patient reported outcomes at 3 and 12 months following surgery. These were ‘Excellent/good OKS’, ‘Mild/no pain’, ‘Walking without/at first a limp’, ‘No/little interference with normal work’, ‘Kneeling with little/no difficulty’ and ‘Satisfaction with surgery’.Introduction & aims
Method
End-stage ankle arthritis (ESAA) is a debilitating disease that does not affect all individuals equally. Gender differences have been identified in patients with end-stage hip and knee arthritis and have stimulated research to explain these findings. The present study was undertaken to examine if gender has a significant effect on pre-operative disability and post-operative outcomes in patients with ESAA. Patients undergoing ankle arthrodesis (AA) or total ankle replacement (TAR) with minimum 2-year follow-up were identified in the Canadian Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society prospective ankle reconstruction database. Demographic data, revision data, patient satisfaction questionnaires, and outcome data using the Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale (AOS) and Short-form 36 (SF-36) health survey were collected. TAR: 384 patients were included, with 198 females and 186 males. Patient BMI, comorbidities, and duration of follow-up were similar between groups. Males were slightly older at the time of surgery (65.1 vs 62.4 years, p=0.01)). The most common etiology was post-traumatic arthritis for both genders, however females had a higher rate of rheumatoid arthritis (17% vs 5%, p=0.001). Implant types included STAR, Hintegra, and Mobility, and were similar between groups. Preoperatively females had higher rates of pain and disability, demonstrated by lower SF-36 physical component scores (PCS) (31.0 vs 34.5, p<0.001), and higher AOS pain (54.7 vs 51.1, p=0.05) and AOS disability scores (66.5 vs 59.6, p<0.001). Postoperatively, both groups had significant improvement in PCS, AOS pain, and AOS disability scores. Females, however, continued to demonstrate lower PCS scores (38.3 vs 41.9, p<0.001) and higher AOS disability (31.0 vs 25.8, p=0.02) than males. Regression analysis found that preoperative PCS, gender, age, and arthritis etiology all had a significant impact on postoperative PCS scores, with preoperative PCS scores having the largest impact. Preoperative AOS pain and disability scores had the largest impact on postoperative AOS pain and disability scores, respectively. Gender had no significant impact on AOS pain and disability scores postoperatively. Patient satisfaction was similar between males and females postoperatively. Secondary surgery was performed in 13.6% of females and 16.1% of males. Five males and five females underwent revision to arthrodesis. In patients with ESAA, females tend to have higher pre-operative levels of pain and disability compared to males, which persists post-operatively. This is consistent with the hip and knee arthroplasty literature. This finding may be due to females undergoing surgery at more advanced disease states, arthritis etiology, referral bias, or treatment bias. Both males and females have significant and similar degrees of improvement in pain and disability scores after TAR, and reoperation rates and patient satisfaction rates are similar despite the apparent disparity in outcomes.
We identified 26 tibial tubercle osteotomies (TTOs) performed in 23 revision knee arthroplasties between 2009 and 2013. Average age at last operation was 66 (33–92). Mean follow-up period was 14 months (3–33). Eleven TTOs were performed in 10 knees for single stage revisions and 15 TTOs were performed in 13 knees for 2 stage revisions in the setting of deep infection. In this infected subset 11 patients had a TTO performed at the first stage. This osteotomy was left unfixed to avoid leaving metalwork in a potentially contaminated wound, reopened, and then definitively secured with screws at the second stage. Our technique involves fashioning a long 7×1cm tibial tuberosity osteotomy without a proximal step-cut. All osteotomies united with no fractures. Minor proximal migration was noted in one case associated with screw loosening. There was no proximal migration noted in the 2 stage cases where the osteotomy had been left initially unfixed. There were no extensor lags. We conclude that TTO is a safe and reproducible procedure when adequate exposure cannot be obtained in revision knee arthroplasty. In 2 stage revisions sequential osteotomies does not decrease union rates and leaving the osteotomy unfixed after the first stage does not cause any issues.
Eligible patients were randomly allocated to PMI or standard intramedullary jigs. Smith and Nephew's patient specific cutting blocks (Visionaire) were used for PMI. Postoperative component positioning was investigated using the ‘Perth CT protocol’. Deviation of more than 3° from the recommended position was regarded as an outlier. Exact Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare component positioning and difference in proportion of outliers was calculated using Chi Squared analysis. Fifty-five knees were enrolled in the standard instrumentation group and fifty-two knees in the PMI group. Coronal femoral alignment was 0.7 ± 1.9° (standard) vs 0.5 ± 1.6° (PMI) (P=0.33). Outliers 9.4% vs 7.4% (P=0.71). Coronal tibial alignment was 0.4 ± 1.5° (standard) vs 0.6 ± 1.4° (PMI) (P=0.56). Outliers 1.9% vs 1.9% (P=0.99). Sagittal femoral alignment was 0.6 ± 1.5° (standard) vs 1.3 ± 1.9° (PMI) (P=0.07). Outliers 3.8% vs 13.2% (P=0.09). Tibial slope was 1.7 ± 1.9 ° (standard) vs 1.8 ± 2.7° (PMI) (P=0.88). Outliers 13.2% vs 24.1% (P=0.15). External rotation of femoral component was 0.6 ± 1.4° (standard) vs 0.2 ± 1.8° (PMI) (P=0.14). Outliers: 3.8% vs 5.6% (P=0.66). Compared to standard intramedullary jigs, patient matched instrumentation does not improve component positioning or reduce alignment outliers.
The long-term impact of dividing Piriformis when performing a standard posterior approach to the hip has not been assessed. A less invasive approach in which the tendon is preserved has been described (the Piriformis-sparing minimally invasive [PSMI] approach). With advances in MRI technology it is now possible to image structures in close proximity to metal without artifact. The aim of the study was to compare the MRI features (muscle grade and bulk) of the divided and repaired Piriformis tendon group (by the standard posterior approach) with the preserved tendon group (by the PSMI approach). As part of an on-going randomized controlled trial comparing the PSMI approach with the standard posterior approach for total hip replacement, a subgroup of 20 consecutive patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were recruited. Patients received preoperative and 3 months and 2 year postoperative MRI scans. Patients and evaluators were blinded to allocation. Outcomes assessed included grade, volume and integrity of Piriformis.Background
Methods
Roentgen stereophotogrammetric analysis (RSA) is the most accurate radiographic technique for the assessment of three-dimensional micromotion in joints. RSA has been used previously to study the kinematics of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)-deficient knee and to measure knee laxity after bone-tendon-bone (BTB) reconstructions. There is no published evidence on its use in assessing hamstring grafts in vivo, in comparing hamstring versus BTB reconstruction, or in-depth analyses of graft performance. The aim of this project was to use RSA to measure laxity in both BTB and hamstring reconstructions, and to attempt a detailed analysis of graft behaviour in both reconstructions, with particular attention to graft stretching and slippage of the bony attachments. A prospective study was undertaken on 14 patients who underwent ACL reconstruction. Seven had BTB reconstruction, and seven had four-stranded semitendinosus/gracilis (STG). Tantalum markers were inserted at the time of surgery, into distal femur and proximal tibia, and also directly into the graft itself. Stress radiographs (90N anterior and 90N posterior force) were taken early post-operatively, and then at 6 weeks, and 3, 6 and 12 months. In addition to measuring total anteroposterior knee laxity, a detailed analysis of the graft itself was possible. The BTB grafts had stretched by an average of 1.54%, and the bone plugs had migrated by 0.50 mm at the femoral end and by 0.61mm at the tibial end. The hamstring grafts had stretched on average 3.94%, and the intraosseous ends had migrated by 3.96mm at the femoral end and by 7.10mm at the tibial end. This is believed to be the most detailed application of RSA in analysing the performance of the two commonly used grafts in ACL reconstruction. Details such as graft stretching and fixation slippage have not been available previously; the data obtained in this study may have implications for clinical practice.
The aim of this study was to compare a single-incision minimally invasive (MI) posterior approach with a standard posterior approach in a double-blind prospective randomised controlled trial. A pilot study was carried out to assess the efficacy of the MI approach. Primary total hip replacements meeting the inclusion criteria were randomised to either the MI approach or the standard posterior approach. Patients were blinded to allocation. Patients were scored by a blinded physiotherapist pre-operatively, at Day 2, 2 weeks and 6 weeks. The primary outcome measure was function, assessed using the Oxford hip score, SF-12 questionnaire, Iowa score, 6-minute walk test and the number of walking aids required after 2 and 6 weeks post-operatively. Secondary outcomes were complication rates, patient satisfaction, soft tissue trauma and radiographic analysis.Aim
Method
Clostridium difficile associated diarrhoea (CDAD) has emerged as a healthcare associated infection of great clinical and economic significance especially in the frail and vulnerable group of fracture neck of femur patients. A major risk factor for the development of CDAD in patients who undergo operation for fracture neck of femur is the perioperative antibiotic exposure, with cephalosporins being particularly implicated. The type ‘027’ strains of C. Difficile are multi-resistant and cause severe morbidity and mortality. A retrospective audit was performed to study the effect of C. Difficile infection in operated fracture neck of femur patients.
Midvastus (MV) vs Medial Parapatellar (MPP) approach: Quadriceps function in the early post operative period was better preserved in the MV group. Post operative pain, blood loss and the need for LRR tended to be lower in the MV group. Subvastus (SV) vs Medial Parapatellar approach: Quadriceps function was better preserved in the SV group up to 3 months post operatively. ROM was generally greater up until the 4 week time point. Post operative pain and blood loss was lower in the SV group. Midvastus vs Subvastus approach: The SV group suffered with significantly more pain at six months post operatively. Quadriceps-sparing versus Medial Parapatellar Approach: Significantly longer operative times and more complications were noted in the QS group. Modified ‘Quadriceps sparing’ Medial Parapatellar vs Mini-Subvastus (MSV) approach: A tendency for earlier restoration of SLR and better early ROM was noted in the MSV group.
MIS tends to result in an improved early quadriceps function and decreased blood loss. However, these approaches are technically more demanding, result in longer operative times and provide no long-term benefit. There is concern that they result in a greater number of major complications and risk implant mal-alignment. Eversion of the patella seems to correlate with poor quadriceps function.
The aim of this study was to compare a single-incision minimally invasive posterior approach with a standard posterior approach in a double-blind prospective randomised controlled trial. A pilot study was carried out to assess the efficacy of the minimally invasive (MI) approach. The protocol described in the CONSORT statement was used as a template for the study design. 100 Primary total hip replacements meeting the inclusion criteria were randomised in theatre to either the MI approach (using a small incision with preservation of piriformis and distal aspect of quadratus femoris) or the standard posterior approach. Hips meeting the inclusion criteria were randomised in theatre using sealed identical opaque envelopes. Patients were blinded to allocation and all patients remained in the group they were allocated to. Pre and post-operative care programmes were identical. Patients were scored by a blinded research physiotherapist pre-operatively, at Day 2, 2 weeks, 6 weeks and 3 months post operation. The primary outcome measure was function, assessed using the Oxford hip score, SF-12 questionnaire, Iowa score, 6-minute walk test and the number of walking aids required after 2 and 6 weeks post operatively. Secondary outcomes were complication rates, patient satisfaction, difficulty of the procedure as perceived by the surgeon, soft tissue trauma (CRP and blood loss) and radiographic analysis. 50 patients were recruited to each group. There was no difference in demographics Mean incision length was 12.8cm and 19.1cm respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in operation time, post-op functional recovery (ILOA score) or length of stay. Pain (VAS) was similar post-operatively, and at 6 and 12 weeks. There was no significant difference in 10 metre walking speed or 6 minute walking distance at 2, 6 or 12 weeks; nor was there a difference in Oxford hip score, patient satisfaction with surgery (VAS), or SF-12 score at 6 or 12 weeks. Blood loss, fall in haematocrit, transfusion rate and CRP rise were similar. There was no significant difference in cementation of the stem (Barrack) or cup position (Dorr). There was one death from PE in the MIS group and one deep infection in the standard group. There was one dislocation in the standard group. The only statistical difference between the groups was less dependence on walking aids at 2 and 6 weeks in the MIS group; there was no difference at 12 weeks. MIS surgery is safe, and may allow earlier independent mobility after THR. However, the claims of significantly reduced pain, less morbidity, better function and improved patient satisfaction appear to be unfounded.
Despite initial enthusiasm for minimally invasive total hip replacements (THR), there has been a marked paucity of level 1 evidence studies assessing it. 100 patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria were randomised in theatre to a standard posterior or muscle-sparing short incision (MIS) approach. A hybrid hip replacement was used routinely. Post-operative management was the same. Follow-up occurred at 2, 6 and 12 weeks. Patients, as well as functional and radiographic assessors were blinded. 50 patients were recruited to each group. There was no difference in demographics Mean incision length was 12.8cm and 19.1cm respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in operation time, post-op functional recovery (ILOA score) or length of stay. Pain (VAS) was similar post-operatively, and at 6 and 12 weeks. There was no significant difference in 10 metre walking speed or 6 minute walking distance at 2, 6 or 12 weeks; nor was there a difference in Oxford hip score, patient satisfaction with surgery (VAS), or SF-12 score at 6 or 12 weeks. Blood loss, fall in haematocrit, transfusion rate and CRP rise were similar. There was no significant difference in cementation of the stem (Barrack) or cup position (Dorr). There was one death from PE in the MIS group and one deep infection in the standard group. There was one dislocation in the standard group. The only statistical difference between the groups was less dependence on walking aids at 2 and 6 weeks in the MIS group; there was no difference at 12 weeks. MIS surgery is safe, and may allow earlier independent mobility after THR. However, the claims of significantly reduced pain, less morbidity, better function and improved patient satisfaction appear to be unfounded.
A recurrence of objectively measured knee laxity after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction has previously been reported in various papers; the purpose of this study was to accurately measure in vivo knee laxity after both bone-tendon-bone (BTB) and hamstring reconstruction using radiostereometric analysis (RSA), and to differentiate between graft fixation slippage and graft stretching and their relative contributions to any increase in laxity. Twenty patients were studied prospectively after ACL reconstruction. Ten had been operated on using BTB grafts, and ten using hamstring (four-stranded semitendinosus/gracilis) grafts. Tantalum markers were inserted in the distal femur, proximal tibia and into the graft itself. (RSA) was used to measure sagittal laxity, graft stretching and fixation slippage early post-operatively, and then at intervals up to 1 year. A steady increase in total anteroposterior laxity was found in both groups over the year. For the BTB group, total mean slippage of the bone plugs increased to 1.28 mm at 1 year. For the hamstring group, the tunnel attachments had slipped by a total of 6.82 mm. More stretching was found for the hamstrings grafts than for the BTB grafts and the amount of stretching increased significantly with time post-surgery. The hamstring grafts stretched by a mean of 4.18%, the BTB grafts by 1.18%. This is believed to be the most detailed application of RSA in analysing the performance of the two commonly used grafts in ACL reconstruction. Details such as graft stretching and fixation slippage have not been available previously; the data obtained in this study may have implications for clinical practice.
The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is a significant difference in femoral component alignment when the posterior and direct lateral approaches are compared.
AP radiograph Tip of stem to outer medial cortex. Tip of stem to outer lateral cortex. Lateral radiograph C Tip of stem to anterior outer cortex D Tip of stem to posterior outer cortex. Component alignment was defined as A – B and C – D.
This was a double-blind randomised controlled study. The objective of this study was to determine the cause of post-injection pain after peri-articular steroid injection. Approval for this study was granted by the hospital’s Ethics Committee. Selection criteria included all patients undergoing a peri-articular injection under the care of the senior author. Patients who elected to be in this study gave their consent following a detailed explanation of the study and provision of a patient information leaflet. The enrolled patients were randomised into one of two groups. Group A received a standard triamcinolone acetonide injection mixed with bupivicaine. Group B patients received triamcinolone acetonide without the preservative part of the drug and bupivicaine. Both the patient and the surgeon were unaware which group the patient was selected to be in. Patients’ scores were recorded using visual analogue scales and pain severity scores prior to injection and 4 days following injection. Inflammatory signs were also recorded at 4 days post-procedure. A total of 52 patients were enrolled. Pain scores reduced by 46% in group A and 43% in group B. Inflammatory signs occurred in 26% less cases when group B was compared with group A, however this was not statistically significant.
Eleven patients had a lateral closing wedge osteotomy; the medial opening wedge was performed in a case of leg shortening. Mean operation duration was 72 minutes (60–90). The graft was fixed with fibrin glue in all cases, and augmented with stitches or vicryl pins in five cases. Mean defect size was 6.2cm2 (2–12). There were three complications: one DVT, a haemarthrosis and a graft detachment. Average follow-up was 16 months. MRI scans at three months show oedematous tissue at the defect sites, contrasting with the fluid filled defects seen preoperatively. Scans at one-year show hyaline-like cartilage infill with similar signal characteristics to native hyaline cartilage. Six minute walk test and knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score indicate significantly improved functional capacity at six months and one year.
Minimum follow-up was 3 years in group 1 and 1.5 years in group 2. There were 3 dislocations in group 1, and none in group 2. There were 2 re-operations in both groups. The relative improvement in WOMAC scores was significantly greater in group 2 at 3 months and 1 year (P<
0.05).
Patients were scored pre-operatively and followed up prospectively. The only special instruments required are two large curved Hohmann retractors and an angled cup introducer.
Forty-two percent of patients were male. Mean age was 68.9 years (42–90) and BMI 26 (14–39). Average operation time was 64.1 minutes and anaesthetic time 92.5 minutes. Mean fall in haemoglobin in the first 24 hours was 2.3g/dl. Mean incision length was 7.4cm. Follow-up was a minimum of one year (range 12–29 months). There was a highly statistically significant improvement in WOMAC and SF-36 scores at three and 12 months post-operatively (p<
0.0001). Early medical complications occurred in 12 patients, including two superficial infections, all of which resolved. There were no peri-prosthetic fractures and importantly, no dislocations. There were two re-operations: one revision for cup displacement and one washout for deep infection.
58 patients underwent treatment for Slipped Upper Femoral Epiphysis (SUFE) at our unit from 1984 to 2001. 4 (7%) patients had bilateral SUFE at the time of primary admission, 17 (29%) patients were diagnosed with a slip of the contralateral hip at review during adolescence. The remaining 37 patients whose contralateral hips were not operated upon at completion of growth were reviewed at an average follow-up of 8 years (range 2–17) after the primary admission. 13 patients were not available for review, so 24 patients were examined and their hips radiographed. Iowa hip score was used to assess the function of the hips, Antero-posterior and lateral radiographic views were taken to look for evidence of epiphyseal slip and degenerative joint disease. The Calcar Femorale was used as a radiographic landmark to check for a slip. Ahlback’s score was used to grade osteoarthritis. 4 out of 24 patients at the follow-up examination showed displacement of the contralateral femoral head that was greater than 3 standard deviation and was consistent with previously unrecognised physiolysis. 4 contralateral hips showed evidence of butteressing at the site of physeal reminence but the displacement was less than 3 standard deviations and so they were not considered to have slipped. 3 of these hips with buttressing had evidence of Grade I osteoarthritis. Overall incidence of bilateral SUFE in our study, excluding the 13 patients who were not available for follow-up was 25 out of 45 (55%). This real existence of unrecognised contralateral slip, the increased risk of OA in these hips and significant rate of bilaterality, stresses the need to readdress the current mode of management of the contralateral hips in patients treated for unilateral SUFE.
In our clinical series, over 30% of patients experienced paraesthesia and some experienced a burning dysaesthesia in the distribution of the LFCN.
Open reduction and internal fixation is the treatment of choice for patients with displaced fractures of the lateral and medial malleoli. Ideally, operative treatment restores sufficient stability to allow full mobility at the ankle joint. However, because of the necessity to protect the ankle from weight-bearing and other forces, we routinely immobilise the ankle in a below-knee cast because of our concerns about patient compliance. We carried out a prospective study to assess patient compliance with instructions on non-weight bearing following ORIF of ankle fractures. All 30 patients at our hospital who were treated for an ankle fracture over a 14 month period were included in our study. 22 of these underwent ORIF. A below knee cast was applied in all cases, and patients were instructed not to put any weight on the injured limb. A pressure sensitive film (Fuji Prescale Film, Sensor Products Inc., NJ, USA) was incorporated into the cast beneath the heel pad. Patients were informed that this was being done to measure the pressure within the cast, for the purposes of a trial. The cast was changed (including the pressure sensitive film) at two-week intervals over a six week period, providing three separate measurements of pressure on the heel. The sole of the cast was also examined, to complement the findings on the pressure film. At each visit, the patients level of pain was assessed using a visual analogue score, and the wound (if present) was examined. There was a remarkable variation in the amount of weight bearing performed by the patients in this study, but several trends could be observed. In most cases, patient compliance was greatest in the first four weeks following cast application, but patients tended to put significant weight on the limb in the 4–6 week period. Female patients tended to comply better than males. Patients with a history of alcohol or drug abuse complied poorly. Compliance was lower in those individuals with lower pain scores. Of interest, the degree of weight bearing did not significantly affect the radiological or clinical outcome at the 6-week mark in any case. We conclude that patient compliance with non-weight bearing is generally poor, although the effect of this poor compliance on the long-term outcome requires further study.
This is a retrospective study of 612 cases of iatropathic injury to peripheral nerves seen in one tertiary referral unit between 1991 and 1998. A total of 291 patients was subsequently operated on to explore the nerve lesion. The most common presenting symptom was pain, which often masked underlying loss of function. The delay in diagnosis was up to 40 months. The findings at operation were analysed according to the type of nerve damaged, the nature of the injury and the referring specialty. Some of the more common causal operations and procedures are discussed. Preventive measures are listed, and early diagnosis and treatment are recommended.
The passage of technetium-labelled methylene diphosphonate (99mTc-MDP) across rat bone was examined by autoradiography. The autoradiographs showed that shortly after an injection of the bone-seeking agent there was activity outside the bone, within the bone marrow and also adjacent to the highly vascular epiphysial plate; the distribution of the isotope in the incubated bone appeared to be non-uniform, a high concentration being seen adjacent to the epiphysial plate and also on the surfaces of the bone. The evidence suggested that a two-fold mechanism resulted in the uneven distribution of 99mTc-MDP. The first factor probably represented the regional distribution of blood flow with a transcapillary movement of the tracer from the capillary bed to the extravascular space; the subsequent incorporation of the tracer into bone appeared to depend on the nature of the bone matrix.
The residue and extraction of technetium-labelled methylene diphosphonate (99mTc-MDP), a substance used in bone scanning, was examined in the canine tibia and found to be low. Examination of washout curves suggested that there were four compartments in cortical bone, a vascular, a perivascular, a bone fluid and a bone compartment. After an osteotomy in the canine tibia the residue of 99mTc-MDP increased. This was believed to be due to an increase in the blood supply to the bone and to an associated increase in new bone available for exchange. Bone scanning in a fracture is therefore a reflection of the vascular status of the bone being examined and of the uptake by bone. This is dependent on there being an adequate blood supply to the bone and an increased number of mineral-binding sites.