Aims. Multiple secondary surgical procedures of the shoulder, such as soft-tissue releases, tendon transfers, and osteotomies, are described in brachial plexus birth palsy (BPBP) patients. The long-term functional outcomes of these procedures described in the literature are inconclusive. We aimed to analyze the literature looking for a consensus on treatment options. Methods. A systematic literature search in healthcare databases (PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane library,
Aims. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of home-based prehabilitation on pre- and postoperative outcomes in participants awaiting total knee (TKA) and hip arthroplasty (THA). Methods. A systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of prehabilitation interventions for TKA and THA. MEDLINE,
Aims. Avulsion of the proximal hamstring tendon origin can result in significant functional impairment, with surgical re-attachment of the tendons becoming an increasingly recognized treatment. The aim of this study was to assess the outcomes of surgical management of proximal hamstring tendon avulsions, and to compare the results between acute and chronic repairs, as well as between partial and complete injuries. Methods. PubMed,
Aims. Loosening of components after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) can be associated with the development of radiolucent lines (RLLs). The aim of this study was to assess the rate of formation of RLLs in the cemented original design of the ATTUNE TKA and their relationship to loosening. Methods. A systematic search was undertaken using the Cochrane methodology in three online databases: MEDLINE, Embase, and
Aims. This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to compare open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with primary arthrodesis (PA) in the treatment of Lisfranc injuries, regarding patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), and risk of secondary surgery. The aim was to conclusively determine the best available treatment based on the most complete and recent evidence available. Methods. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials (CENTRAL), EMBASE,
Aims. With up to 40% of patients having patellofemoral joint osteoarthritis (PFJ OA), the two arthroplasty options are to replace solely the patellofemoral joint via patellofemoral arthroplasty (PFA), or the entire knee via total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The aim of this study was to assess postoperative success of second-generation PFAs compared to TKAs for patients treated for PFJ OA using patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and domains deemed important by patients following a patient and public involvement meeting. Methods. MEDLINE, EMBASE via OVID,
Aims. Revision rates for ankle arthroplasties are higher than hip or knee arthroplasties. When a total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) fails, it can either undergo revision to another ankle replacement, revision of the TAA to ankle arthrodesis (fusion), or amputation. Currently there is a paucity of literature on the outcomes of these revisions. The aim of this meta-analysis is to assess the outcomes of revision TAA with respect to surgery type, functional outcomes, and reoperations. Methods. A systematic review was conducted using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. PubMed, Medline, Embase,
Aims. Clinical management of open fractures is challenging and frequently requires complex reconstruction procedures. The Gustilo-Anderson classification lacks uniform interpretation, has poor interobserver reliability, and fails to account for injuries to musculotendinous units and bone. The Ganga Hospital Open Injury Severity Score (GHOISS) was designed to address these concerns. The major aim of this review was to ascertain the evidence available on accuracy of the GHOISS in predicting successful limb salvage in patients with mangled limbs. Methods. We searched electronic data bases including PubMed, CENTRAL, EMBASE,
Aims. To systematically review the efficacy of split tendon transfer surgery on gait-related outcomes for children and adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP) and spastic equinovarus foot deformity. Methods. Five databases (CENTRAL,
Emerging evidence suggests preoperative opioid use may increase the risk of negative outcomes following orthopedic procedures. This systematic review evaluated the impact of preoperative opioid use in patients undergoing shoulder surgery with respect to preoperative clinical outcomes, postoperative complications, and postoperative dependence on opioids. EMBASE, MEDLINE, CENTRAL, and
Abstract. Purpose. Recently several authors have suggested a correlation between posterior tibial slope (PTS) and sagittal stability of the knee. However, there is a lack of consensus in the literature relating to measurement, normal values and important values to guide treatment. We performed a systematic literature review looking at PTS and cruciate ligament surgery. Our aim was to define a gold standard measurement technique, determine normal ranges and important values for consideration during cruciate ligament surgery. Methods. Electronic searches of MEDLINE (PubMed),
There is an evolving body of evidence that demonstrates the role of epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA-methylation in the pathogenesis of OA. This systematic review aims to summarize the current evidence of DNA methylation and its influence on the pathogenesis of OA. A pre-defined protocol in alignment with the PRISMA guidelines was employed to systematically review eight bibliographic databases, to identify associations between DNA-methylation of articular chondrocytes and osteoarthritis. A search of Medline (Ovid), Embase, Web-of-Science, Scopus, PubMed,
Acetabular retroversion (ARV) is a cause of femoroacetabular impingement leading to hip pain and reduced range of motion. We aimed to describe the radiological criteria used for diagnosing ARV in the literature and report on the outcomes of periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) and hip arthroscopy (HA) in its management. A systematic review using PRISMA guidelines was conducted on the MEDLINE,
Purpose and background. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders, particularly back pain, are a significant issue for healthcare workers, with patient handling being the most frequently reported risk factor. Patient handling is often performed without assistive devices or equipment, which can cause healthcare staff to maintain awkward postures or experience high loads. This review aimed to comprehensively map the literature surrounding manual patient handling (without assistive devices) by healthcare practitioners to identify the current evidence-base on moving and handling of patients and explore what primary research had been conducted. Methods and results. JBI methodology for scoping reviews and an a priori registered protocol (DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/8PR7A) was followed and AMED,
Background. Clinical guidelines recommend epidural steroid injection (ESI) as a treatment option for severe disc-related sciatica, but there is considerable uncertainty about its effectiveness. Currently, we know very little about factors that might be associated with good or poor outcomes from ESI. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesize and appraise the evidence investigating prognostic factors associated with outcomes following ESI for patients with imaging confirmed disc-related sciatica. Methods. The search strategy involved the electronic databases Medline, Embase,
Though retear rates following rotator cuff repair are well established, we set out to review current literature to determine when early retears occurred (defined as <12m following surgery), and examine which pre- and post-operative variables might affect outcome. Pubmed, Medline, and
An international Consensus Group has by a Delphi approach identified the topic of host factors affecting pin site infection to be one of the top 10 priorities in external fixator management. The aim of this study was to report the frequency of studies reporting on specific host factors as a significant association with pin site infection. Host factors to be assessed was: age, smoking, BMI and any comorbidity, diabetes, in particular. The intention was an ethological review, data was extracted if feasible, however no meta-analysis was performed. A systematic literature search was performed according to the PRISMA-guidelines. The protocol was registered before data extraction in PROSPERO. The search string was based on the PICO criterias. A logic grid with key concept and index terms was made. A search string was built assisted by a librarian. The literature search was executed in three electronic bibliographic databases, including Embase MEDLINE (1111 hits) and
Abstract. Objective. A common orthopaedic pain found in a wide spectrum of individuals, from young and active to the elderly is anterior knee pain (AKP). It is a multifactorial disorder which is thought to occur through muscular imbalance, overuse, trauma, and structural malalignment. Over time, this can result in cartilage damage and subsequent chondral lesions. Whilst the current gold standard for chondral lesion detection is MRI, it is not a highly sensitive tool, with around 20% of lesions thought to be mis-diagnosed by MRI. Single-photon emission computerised tomography with conventional computer tomography (SPECT/CT) is an emerging technology, which may hold clinical value for the detection of chondral lesions. SPECT/CT may provide valuable diagnostic information for AKP patients who demonstrate absence of structural change on other imaging modalities. This review systematically assessed the value of SPECT/CT as an imaging modality for knee pain, and its ability to diagnose chondral lesions for patients who present with knee pain. Methods. Using PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search was carried out in PubMed, Science Direct, and Web of Knowledge,
Introduction. External fixators are common surgical orthopaedic treatments for the management of complex fractures and in particular, the use of circular frame fixation within patients requiring limb reconstruction. It is well known that common complications relating to muscle length and patient function without rehabilitation can occur. Despite this there remains a lack of high-quality clinical trials in this area investigating the role of physiotherapy or rehabilitation in the management of these patients. We aim to complete a systematic review of rehabilitation techniques for patients undergoing external fixator treatment for Limb Reconstruction of the lower limb. Materials & Methods. A comprehensive search of AMED,
Introduction. Snapping hip syndrome is a common condition affecting 10% of the population. It is due to the advance of the iliotibial band (ITB) over the greater trochanter during lower limb movements and often associated with hip overuse, such as in athletic activities. Management is commonly conservative with physiotherapy or can be surgical to release the ITB. Here we carry out a systematic review into published surgical management and present a case report on an overlooked cause of paediatric snapping hip syndrome. Materials & Methods. A systematic review looking at published surgical management of snapping hip was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE,
Abstract. Objective. There is no specific framework for the clinical management of sports related brachial plexus injuries. Necessarily, rehabilitation is based on injury presentation and clinical diagnostics but it is unclear what the underlying evidence base to inform rehabilitative management. Methods. A systematic review of the literature was undertaken in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. We applied the PEO criteria to inform our search strategy to find articles that reported the rehabilitative management of brachial plexus injuries sustained while playing contact sports. An electronic search of Medline,
Abstract. Non-operative management of AIS can present practical and psychological challenges, as effective bracing requires a considerable investment of time in adolescence which is a formative point of physical and emotional development. The management team lacks input from the psychological team and thus, it would be prudent for the spinal teams to appreciate and deal with the psychosocial effects associated with bracing. We sought to investigate how bracing as a part of non-operative management of idiopathic scoliosis, is perceived among adolescents. We performed a search of
Aims. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the mortality, morbidity, and functional outcomes of cemented versus uncemented hemiarthroplasty in the treatment of intracapsular hip fractures, analyzing contemporary and non-contemporary implants separately. Methods. PubMed, Medline, EMBASE,
Aims. Gender bias and sexual discrimination (GBSD) have been widely recognized across a range of fields and are now part of the wider social consciousness. Such conduct can occur in the medical workplace, with detrimental effects on recipients. The aim of this review was to identify the prevalence and impact of GBSD in orthopaedic surgery, and to investigate interventions countering such behaviours. Methods. A systematic review was conducted by searching Medline, EMCARE,
Abstract. BACKGROUND. The effectiveness of anti-embolic graduated compression stockings (GCSs) has recently been questioned. The aim of this study is to systematically review all the relevant randomised controlled trials published to date. PATIENTS AND METHODS. We systematically reviewed all the randomised controlled trials comparing anti-embolism stockings with no stockings. We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE and
Aims. The purpose of this study was to: review the efficacy of the induced membrane technique (IMT), also known as the Masquelet technique; and investigate the relationship between patient factors and technique variations on the outcomes of the IMT. Methods. A systematic search was performed in
Introduction and Objective. The effectiveness of anti-embolic graduated compression stockings (GCSs) has recently been questioned. The aim of this study is to systematically review all the relevant randomised controlled trials published to date. Materials and Methods. We systematically reviewed all the randomised controlled trials comparing anti-embolism stockings with no stockings. We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE and
Abstract. Objectives. Achilles tendon ruptures are common in the UK, with data demonstrating a significant rise in incidence over the past years. Chronic Achilles ruptures have been less well defined in literature, and repair techniques vary significantly. A surge in publications reporting various management options for chronic Achilles ruptures has necessitated a review that systematically maps and summarises current evidence regarding treatments and identifies areas for future research. This scoping review aims to improve knowledge of various treatment strategies and their associated outcomes, thereby aiding clinicians in optimising treatment protocols. Methods. The Arksey and O'Malley, Levac and Peters frameworks were used. A computer-based search in PubMed, Embase, Emcare,
Introduction and Objective. Several studies have described double and triple femoral neck lengthening osteotomies to correct coxa brevis deformity, however, no overview exists in literature. Our aim was to perform the first systematic review of the outcomes of double and triple femoral neck lengthening. Materials and Methods. After an extensive search in Pubmed,
Aim. Chronic osteomyelitis reflects a progressive inflammatory process of destruction and necrosis affecting bone architecture. It presents a challenge to manage, requiring multi-stage multidisciplinary interventions, and the literature reports a wide variety of treatment strategies. This systematic scoping review aims to map and summarise existing literature on treatment of chronic osteomyelitis of the femur and tibia and investigates the full range of treatments reported in order to enhance the reader's understanding of how to manage this complex condition. Method. A comprehensive computer-based search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Emcare and
Introduction. Patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) are used to understand the impact of lower limb reconstruction on patient's quality of life (QOL). Existing measures have not been developed to specifically capture patient experiences amongst adults with lower limb conditions that require reconstruction surgery. This systematic review of qualitative studies (qualitative evidence synthesis) aimed to identify what is important to these patients. Materials and Methods. MEDLINE, Embase, PsychINFO and
Abstract. Objectives. Modular dual-mobility (MDM) constructs are used to reduce dislocation rates after total hip replacement (THR). They combine the advantages of dual mobility with the option of supplementary acetabular screw fixation in complex revision surgery. However, there are concerns about adverse reaction to metal debris (ARMD) as a result of fretting corrosion between the metal liner and shell. Methods. The aim of this systematic review was to find and review all relevant studies to establish the outcomes and risks associated with MDM hip replacement. All articles on MDM THRs in the Medline, EMBASE,
Intro. Calcium sulphate (CS) is a recent alternative for antibiotic elution in infected bones and joints. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the use of antibiotic impregnated calcium sulphate (AICS) beads in the management of infected tibia and femur, with regards to patient outcomes and complication rates (including reinfection rate, remission rate and union rate). Methods. Searches of AMED,
Objectives. Modular dual-mobility (MDM) constructs are used to reduce dislocation rates after total hip replacement (THR). They combine the advantages of dual mobility with the option of supplementary acetabular screw fixation in complex revision surgery. However, there are concerns about adverse reaction to metal debris (ARMD) as a result of fretting corrosion between the metal liner and shell. Methods: The aim of this systematic review was to find and review all relevant studies to establish the outcomes and risks associated with MDM hip replacement. All articles on MDM THRs in the Medline, EMBASE,
Persistent post-surgical pain affects 10%-80% of individuals after common operations, and is more common among patients with psychological factors such as depression, anxiety, or catastrophising. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised, controlled trials to evaluate the efficacy of perioperative psychotherapy for persistent postsurgical pain and physical impairment. We searched Medline, PsycINFO,
Rotator cuff injuries represent a significant burden to the health care system, affecting more than 30% of the population over the age of sixty. Despite the advanced surgical techniques that are available, poor results are sometimes seen in a subset of patients receiving surgical treatment for their rotator cuff disease. The reasons for this failure of treatment remain unclear, particularly if the surgery was ‘technically’ successful. An increasing body of evidence has demonstrated a strong correlation between pre-operative psychological factors and functional outcome following several orthopaedic procedures. This association, however, has not been fully demonstrated or effectively investigated in the context of rotator cuff treatment. The main objective for this study was to conduct a systematic review to determine the impact of psychosocial factors on the outcome of treatment in patients with rotator cuff disease. A systematic search was conducted of Medline,
Aims. The aim of this study was to assess the current available evidence
about when patients might resume driving after elective, primary
total hip (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA) undertaken for
osteoarthritis (OA). Materials and Methods. In February 2016, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane,
PubMed Publisher,
Background and Purpose. Non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP) poses a significant disability and economic burden worldwide. Fear avoidance is suggested to contribute to its chronicity and reduced treatment effect. National guidelines recommend exercise as a component of multidisciplinary rehabilitation but its interaction with fear avoidance is ambiguous. This systematic review examined the effect of exercise-based interventions (EBIs) on fear avoidance NSCLBP. Methods and Results. RCTs comparing EBIs to usual care in adults with NSCLBP were included. A systematic search of
Objectives. The objective of this study was to assess all evidence comparing the Thompson monoblock hemiarthroplasty with modular unipolar implants for patients requiring hemiarthroplasty of the hip with respect to mortality and complications. Methods. A literature search was performed to identify all relevant literature. The population consisted of patients undergoing hemiarthroplasty of the hip for fracture. The intervention was hemiarthroplasty of the hip with a comparison between Thompson and modular unipolar prostheses. Pubmed, Embase,
Background. About 85% of the patients with low back pain seeking medical care have nonspecific low back pain (NsLBP), implying that no definitive cause can be identified. Many pain conditions are linked with elevated serum levels of (pro-)inflammatory biomarkers. Purpose. To unravel the etiology and get better insight in the prognosis of NsLBP, the aim of this study was to assess the association between (pro-)inflammatory biomarkers and the presence and severity of NsLBP. Methods. A systematic literature search was made in Embase, Medline,
Acute metatarsal fractures are a common extremity injury. While surgery may be recommended to reduce the risk of nonunion or symptomatic malunion, most fractures are treated with nonoperative management. However, there is significant variability between practitioners with no consensus among clinicians on the most effective nonoperative protocol, despite how common the form of treatment. This systematic review identified published conservative treatment modalities for acute metatarsal fractures and compares their non-union rate, chronic pain, and length of recovery, with the objective of identifying a best-practices algorithm. Searches of
Objectives. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are often used to evaluate the outcome of treatment in patients with distal radial fractures. Which PROM to select is often based on assessment of measurement properties, such as validity and reliability. Measurement properties are assessed in clinimetric studies, and results are often reviewed without considering the methodological quality of these studies. Our aim was to systematically review the methodological quality of clinimetric studies that evaluated measurement properties of PROMs used in patients with distal radial fractures, and to make recommendations for the selection of PROMs based on the level of evidence of each individual measurement property. Methods. A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, EMbase,
Background and aims. The EU-funded Back-UP project aims to develop a cloud computer platform to guide the treatment of low back and neck pain (LBNP) in first contact care and early rehabilitation. In order to identify evidence-based treatment options that can be recommended and are accessible to people with LBNP across Europe, we conducted a systematic review of recently published guidelines. Methods. Electronic databases, including Medline, Embase,
Aims. To examine the rates of hamstring graft salvage with arthroscopic
debridement of infected anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction
as reported in the literature and discuss functional outcomes. Materials and Methods. A search was performed without language restriction on PubMed,
EMBASE, Ovid,
Aims. We performed a systematic review of the literature to determine
whether earlier surgical repair of acute rotator cuff tear (ARCT)
leads to superior post-operative clinical outcomes. Methods. The MEDLINE, Embase,
Background to the study. The use of Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) to measure effectiveness of care, and supporting patient management is being advocated increasingly. When evaluating outcome it is important to identify a PROM with good measurement properties. Purpose of the study. To review the measurement properties of the low back and neck versions of the Bournemouth Questionnaire. Methods. Bibliographic databases (e.g. EMBASE, MEDLINE,
We performed a systematic review of the optimal management of septic arthritis in children as recommended in the current English literature using MEDLINE, EMBASE,
A delay in the diagnosis of paediatric acute
and subacute haematogenous osteomyelitis can lead to potentially devastating
morbidity. There are no definitive guidelines for diagnosis, and
recommendations in the literature are generally based on expert
opinions, case series and cohort studies. All articles in the English literature on paediatric osteomyelitis
were searched using MEDLINE,
Objectives. Our objective was to perform a systematic review of the literature and conduct a meta- analysis to investigate the effect of initial varus or valgus displacement of proximal humerus on the outcomes of patients with proximal humerus fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation. Methods. In accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement standards, we performed a systematic review. Electronic databases MEDLINE, EMBASE,
Objectives. Our objective was to perform a systematic review of the literature and conduct a meta-analysis to investigate the outcomes of open versus arthroscopic methods of ankle fusion. Methods. In accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement standards, we performed a systematic review. Electronic databases MEDLINE, EMBASE,