Aims. Traditionally, acetabular component insertion during total hip arthroplasty (THA) is visually assisted in the posterior approach and fluoroscopically assisted in the anterior approach. The present study examined the accuracy of a new surgeon during anterior (NSA) and posterior (NSP) THA using robotic arm-assisted technology compared to two experienced surgeons using traditional methods. Methods. Prospectively collected data was reviewed for 120 patients at two institutions. Data were collected on the first 30 anterior approach and the first 30 posterior approach surgeries performed by a newly graduated arthroplasty surgeon (all using robotic arm-assisted technology) and was compared to standard THA by an experienced anterior (SSA) and posterior surgeon (SSP). Acetabular component inclination, version, and leg length were calculated postoperatively and differences calculated based on postoperative film measurement. Results. Demographic data were similar between groups with the exception of BMI being lower in the NSA group (27.98 vs 25.2; p = 0.005). Operating time and total time in operating room (TTOR) was lower in the SSA (p < 0.001) and TTOR was higher in the NSP group (p = 0.014). Planned versus postoperative leg length discrepancy were similar among both anterior and posterior surgeries (p > 0.104). Planned versus postoperative abduction and anteversion were similar among the NSA and SSA (p > 0.425), whereas planned versus postoperative abduction and anteversion were lower in the NSP (p < 0.001). Outliers > 10 mm from planned leg length were present in one case of the SSP and NSP, with none in the anterior groups. There were no outliers > 10° in anterior or posterior for abduction in all surgeons. The SSP had six outliers > 10° in anteversion while the NSP had none (p = 0.004); the SSA had no outliers for anteversion while the NSA had one (p = 0.500). Conclusion. Robotic arm-assisted technology allowed a newly trained surgeon to produce similarly accurate results and outcomes as experienced surgeons in anterior and posterior hip arthroplasty. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(6):365–370

We aim to explore the potential technologies for monitoring and assessment of patients undergoing arthroplasty by examining selected literature focusing on the technology currently available and reflecting on possible future development and application. The reviewed literature indicates a large variety of different hardware and software, widely available and used in a limited manner, to assess patients’ performance. There are extensive opportunities to enhance and integrate the systems which are already in existence to develop patient-specific pathways for rehabilitation. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(10):1104–1109

The computational modelling and 3D technology are finding more and more applications in the medical field. Orthopedic surgery is one of the specialties that can benefit the most from this solution. Three case reports drawn from the experience of the authors’ Orthopedic Clinic are illustraded to highlight the benefits of applying this technology. Drawing on the extensive experience gained within the authors’ Operating Unit, three cases regarding different body segments have been selected to prove the importance of 3D technology in preoperative planning and during the surgery. A sternal transplant by allograft from a cryopreserved cadaver, the realization of a custom made implant of the glenoid component in a two-stage revision of a reverse shoulder arthroplasty, and a case of revision on a hip prosthesis with acetabular bone loss (Paprosky 3B) treated with custom system. In all cases the surgery was planned using 3D processing software and models of the affected bone segments, printed by 3D printer, and based on CT scans of the patients. The surgical implant was managed with dedicated instruments. The use of 3D technology can improve the results of orthopedic surgery in many ways: by optimizing the outcomes of the operation as it allows a preliminary study of the bone loss and an evalutation of feasibility of the surgery, it improves the precision of the positioning of the implant, especially in the context of severe deformity and bone loss, and it reduces the operating time; by improving surgeon training; by increasing patient involvement in decision making and informed consent. 3D technology, by offering targeted and customized solutions, is a valid tool to obtain the tailored care that every patient needs and deserves, also providing the surgeon with an important help in cases of great complexity

An overview about 3D printing technology in orthopaedic applications will be given based on examples. The process from early prototypes to certified implants coming from serial production will be demonstrated also considering relevant surrounding conditions. Today's focus is mostly on orthopaedic implants, but there is a high potential for new implant-related surgical instrument solutions taking into account up-coming clinical demands and user needs accessible by actual 3D printing technologies

Digital Ventilated Cages (DVC) offer an innovative technology to obtain accurate movement data from a single mouse over time [1]. Thus, they could be used to determine the occurrence of a tendon damage event as well as inform on tissue regeneration [2,3]. Therefore, using the mouse model of tendon experimental damage, in this study it has been tested whether the recovery of tissue microarchitecture and of extracellular matrix (ECM) correlates with the motion data collected through this technology. Mice models were used to induce acute injury in Achilles tendons (ATs), while healthy ones were used as control. During the healing process, the mice were housed in DVC cages (Tecniplast) to monitor animal welfare and to study biomechanics assessing movement activity, an indicator of the recovery of tendon tissue functionality. After 28 days, the AT were harvested and assessed for their histological and immunohistochemical properties to obtain a total histological score (TSH) that was then correlated to the movement data. DVC cages showed the capacity to distinguish activity patterns in groups from the two different conditions. The data collected showed that the mice with access to the mouse wheel had a higher activity as compared to the blocked wheel group, which suggests that the extra movement during tendon healing improved motion ability. The histological results showed a clear difference between different analyzed groups. The bilateral free wheel group showed the best histological recovery, offering the highest TSH score, thus confirming the results of the DVC cages and the correlation between movement activity and structural recovery. Data obtained showed a correlation between TSH and the DVC cages, displaying structural and movement differences between the tested groups. This successful correlation allows the usage of DVC type cages as a non-invasive method to predict tissue regeneration and recovery. Acknowledgements: This research is part of the P4FIT project ESR13, funded by the H2020-ITN-EJD MSCA grant agreement No.955685

Aims. Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) using functional alignment aims to implant the components with minimal compromise of the soft-tissue envelope by restoring the plane and obliquity of the non-arthritic joint. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of TKA with functional alignment on mediolateral soft-tissue balance as assessed using intraoperative sensor-guided technology. Methods. This prospective study included 30 consecutive patients undergoing robotic-assisted TKA using the Stryker PS Triathlon implant with functional alignment. Intraoperative soft-tissue balance was assessed using sensor-guided technology after definitive component implantation; soft-tissue balance was defined as intercompartmental pressure difference (ICPD) of < 15 psi. Medial and lateral compartment pressures were recorded at 10°, 45°, and 90° of knee flexion. This study included 18 females (60%) and 12 males (40%) with a mean age of 65.2 years (SD 9.3). Mean preoperative hip-knee-ankle deformity was 6.3° varus (SD 2.7°). Results. TKA with functional alignment achieved balanced medial and lateral compartment pressures at 10° (25.0 psi (SD 6.1) vs 23.1 psi (SD 6.7), respectively; p = 0.140), 45° (21.4 psi (SD 5.9) vs 20.6 psi (SD 5.9), respectively; p = 0.510), and 90° (21.2 psi (SD 7.1) vs 21.6 psi (SD 9.0), respectively; p = 0.800) of knee flexion. Mean ICPD was 6.1 psi (SD 4.5; 0 to 14) at 10°, 5.4 psi (SD 3.9; 0 to 12) at 45°, and 4.9 psi (SD 4.45; 0 to 15) at 90° of knee flexion. Mean postoperative limb alignment was 2.2° varus (SD 1.0°). Conclusion. TKA using the functional alignment achieves balanced mediolateral soft-tissue tension through the arc of knee flexion as assessed using intraoperative pressure-sensor technology. Further clinical trials are required to determine if TKA with functional alignment translates to improvements in patient satisfaction and outcomes compared to conventional alignment techniques. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(3):507–514

Introduction. The use of technology, such as navigation and robotic systems, may improve the accuracy of component positioning in total hip arthroplasty (THA) but its impact on patient reported outcomes measures (PROMs) remains unclear. This study aims to identify the association between intraoperative use of technology and patient reported outcomes measures (PROMs) in patients who underwent primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). Methods. We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent primary THA between 2016 and 2020 and answered a post-operative PROM questionnaire. Patients were separated into three groups depending on the technology utilized intraoperatively: navigation, robotics, or no technology (i.e. manual THA. The Forgotten Joint Score (FJS-12) and Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, Joint Replacement (HOOS, JR) were collected at various time points (FJS: 3m, 1y, and 2y; HOOS, JR: pre-operatively, 3m, and 1y). Demographic differences were assessed with chi-square and ANOVA. Mean scores between all groups were compared using univariate ANCOVA, controlling for observed demographic differences. Results. Of the 1,960 cases included, 896 navigation, 135 robotics, and 929 manual. There was a significant statistical difference in one-year HOOS, JR scores (85.23 vs. 85.95 vs. 86.76; p=0.014) and two-year FJS-12 scores (64.72 vs. 73.35 vs. 74.63; p=0.004) between the three groups. However, they did not exceed the mean clinically important difference (MCID) at any time period. Short and long-term PROMs significantly differed between navigation and manually performed cases (FJS 3m: p=0.047; FJS 2y: p=0.001; HOOS, JR 1y: p=0.004). Two-year FJS-12 scores statistically differed between navigation and robotics (p=0.038). There was no statistical difference in either FJS-12 or HOOS, JR scores between robotics and manual THA groups at all time points (FJS 3m:p=0.076, 1y:p=0.225, 2y:p=0.793; HOOS, JR preop:p=0.872, 3m:p=0.644, 1y:p=0.531). Conclusion. Statistical differences observed between all modalities are not likely to be clinically meaningful with regards to early patient reported outcomes. While intraoperative use of technology may improve the accuracy of implant placement, these modalities have not necessarily translated into improved early reported functional outcomes

Introduction. There is debate regarding whether the use of computer-assisted technology, such as navigation and robotics, has any benefit on clinical or patient reported outcomes following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This study aims to report on the association between intraoperative use of technology and outcomes in patients who underwent primary TKA. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed 7,096 patients who underwent primary TKA from 2016–2020. Patients were stratified depending on the technology utilized intraoperatively: navigation, robotics, or no technology. Patient demographics, clinical data, Forgotten Joint Score-12 (FJS), and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement (KOOS, JR) were collected at various time points up to 1-year follow-up. Demographic differences were assessed with chi-square and ANOVA tests. Clinical data and mean FJS and KOOS, JR scores were compared using univariate ANCOVA, controlling for demographic differences. Results. During the study period, 287 (4%) navigation, 367 (5%) robotics, and 6,442 (91%) manual cases were performed. Surgical time significantly differed between the three groups (113.33 vs. 117.44 vs. 102.11 respectively; p<0.001). Discharge disposition significantly differed between the three groups (p<0.001), with a greater percentage of patients who underwent manual TKA discharged to a skilled nursing facility (12% vs. 8% vs. 15%; p<0.001) than those who had intraoperative technology utilized. FJS scores did not statistically differ at 3-months (p=0.067) and 1-year (p=0.221) postoperatively. There was a significant statistical difference in three-month KOOS, JR scores (59.48 vs. 60.10 vs. 63.64; p=0.001); however, one-year scores did not statistically differ between the three groups (p=0.320). Mean improvement in KOOS, JR scores preoperatively to one-year postoperatively was significantly largest for the navigation group and least for robotics (27.12 vs. 23.78 vs. 25.42; p<0.001). Conclusion. This study demonstrates shorter mean operative time in cases with no utilization of technology and clinically similar patient reported outcome scores associated with TKAs performed between all modalities. While the use of intraoperative technology may aid surgeons, it has not currently translated to better short-term patient outcomes

The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a pivot to online learning for many traditional, hands-on subjects such as anatomy. This, coupled with the increase in online education programmes, and the reduction of time students spend in anatomy dissection rooms, has highlighted a real need for innovative and accessible learning tools. This study describes the development of a novel 3-dimensional (3D), interactive anatomy teaching tool using structured light scanning (SLS) technology. This technique allows the 3D shape and texture of an object to be captured and displayed online, where it can be viewed and manipulated in real-time. Human bones of the upper limb, vertebrae and whole skulls were digitised using SLS using Einscan Pro2X/H scanners. The resulting meshes were then post-processed to add the captured textures and to remove any extraneous information. The final models were uploaded into Sketchfab where they were orientated, lit and annotated. To gather opinion on these models as effective teaching tools, surveys were completed by anatomy students (n=35) and anatomy educators (n=8). Data was collected using a Likert scale response, as well as free text answers to gather qualitative information. 3D scans of the scapula, humerus, radius, ulna, vertebrae and skull were successfully produced by SLS. Interactive models were produced via scan data in Sketchfab and successfully annotated to provide labelled 3D models for examination. 94% of survey respondents agreed that the interactive models were easy to use (n=35, 31% agree and 63% strongly agree) and 97% agreed that the 3D interactive models were more useful than 2D images for learning bony anatomy (n=35; 26% agree and 71% strongly agree). This initial study has demonstrated a suitable proof-of-concept for SLS technology as a useful technique for producing 3D interactive online tools for learning and teaching bony anatomy. Current studies are focussed on determining the SLS accuracy and the ability of SLS to capture soft tissue/joints. We believe that this tool will be a useful technique for generating online 3D interactive models to study orthopaedic anatomy

Universities have an obligation to ensure that Intellectual Property (IP) outputs are properly captured and exploited according to various National and European guidelines. There are two main ways which University technology development can take on the road to commercialisation: 1. Licensing the technology to an existing company: A license is permission to do something the granting party (the licensor) has the right to otherwise prohibit. In the context of IP licensing, it is a grant, by the owner of the property, to another (the licensee) of the right to use the IP in question for commercial purposes; 2. Starting a new company: An important university objective is to explore and pursue opportunities for the exploitation of its intellectual property rights. For universities and its inventors, spin out companies often provide an effective means to achieve this objective. A spin out is created when the University creates a new company out of one of its existing departments, institutions or by an inventor. The decision of which path to take is critical and various elements can effect this decision such as the inventors own objectives, the market niche for the technology, the stage of technical development, the potential reward for each option and the types of support structures available. This talk will summarise the main points to consider when deciding on the most appropriate way to commercialise technologies developed in Universities

Significance. Increasing health care costs are bankrupting the United States and other industrialized countries. To control and/or reduce costs in health care, hospitals, payers, and patients are turning to evidence-based meta-analyses and health economic analyses to identify medical treatments that provide value (value=outcome/cost). Objective: To determine if clinical outcome (patient reported outcomes) analyses or value/economic analyses are more likely to provide the evidence needed for adoption of new technologies in arthroplasty. Methods. A proprietary joint arthroplasty database of patient reported outcomes (PROs) was analyzed to determine the minimum clinically important differences (MCIDs) for PROs used for total knee replacement surgery. The PROs analyzed were: (1) European quality of life (EQ-5D); Oxford Knee Score (OKS); (3) Lower Extremity Activity Scale (LEAS); and (4) Likert Pain Scale (LPS). The MCID was calculated using a distribution method where the MCID equals one half the standard deviation of the score change, MCID = σΔ/2. For clinical meta-analyses, new technologies must demonstrate statistically significant better PROs and the difference must be greater than the MCID. For economic analyses, quality adjusted life years (QALYs) are used. For example, if a total knee replacement (TKR) improved a patient's health-related quality of life by 10% (0.10) and the assumed implant life is 15 years, the patient received 1.5 QALYs (0.10 × 15 years). If the total cost of care for the knee replacement surgery is $30,000, the cost per QALY is $20,000 ($30,000/1.5 QALYs). Results. The MCIDs for EQ-5D, OKS, LEAS, and LPS are 0.086%, 4.6 points, 1.6 points, and 1.3 points, respectively. The mean change (one-year post-operative EQ-5D minus pre-operative EQ-5D) for health-related quality of life is 15% (0.15). The average patient received 2.25 QALYs (0.15 × 15 years) from the surgery. The average cost per QALY is $13,333. However, if a new technology improves the mean health-related quality of life by 1% and the assumed implant life is 15 years, the patient receives 0.15 QALYs of improvement. With an average cost per QALY of $13,333, the new technology will be cost effective if the new technology cost is less than or equal to $2,000 (0.15 × $13,333) per patient. Conclusions. Achieving clinical superiority with new arthroplasty technology will be difficult because the minimum clinically important differences that need to be achieved are significant (EQ-5D 8.6%, OKS 4.6 points, LEAS 1.3 points, and LPS 1.3 points). However, small mean improvements in health-related quality of life (1%) can make the new technology cost effective. New technologies for arthroplasty surgery will increasingly need economic analyses to demonstrate cost effectiveness. Orthopaedic surgeons and manufacturers must collaborate to routinely collect health-related quality of life (EQ-5D) patient reported outcomes to provide a pathway for adoption of new innovative arthroplasty technologies

Objective. To analyze the short-term outcome after medial open-wedge high tibial osteotomy with a 3D-printing technology in early medial keen osteoarthritis and varus malalignment. Design and Method. 32 knees(28 cases) of mOWHTO (fixation with an angular-stable TomoFix implant(Synthes)) with a 3D-printing technology combined with arhtroscopy were prospectively surveyed with regard to functional outcome(Hospital for special knee score [HSS] score). Pre- and postoperative tibial bone varus angle (TBVA), mechanical medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA), and alignment were analyzed with regard to the result. Results. 32 knees were included (28 patients; mean age 46.5±9.3 years). The follow-up rate was 100% at 1.7±0.6 years (range, 1.2–3.2 years). Pre- and postoperative mechanical tibiofemoral axis were 6.8°±2°of varus and 1.2°± 3.4° of valgus, respectively. HSS score significantly improved from 46.0±18.3 preoperatively to 84±12 at one, 80±7 at two years (P<0.01). Conclusions. Medial open-wedge high tibial osteotomy with a 3D-printing technology combined with arthroscopy in medial keen osteoarthritis and varus malalignment is an accurate and good treatment option. High preoperative TBVA and appropriate corrected angle(0–3° of valgus)) was associated with better functional outcome at final follow-up

Production of porous titanium bone implants is a highly promising research and application area due to providing high osseointegration and achieving the desired mechanical properties. Production of controlled porosity in titanium implants is possible with laser powder bed fusion (L- PBF) technology. The main topics of this presentation includes the L-PBF process parameter optimization to manufacture thin walls of porous titanium structures with almost full density and good mechanical properties as well as good dimensional accuracy. Moreover, the cleaning and coating process of these structures to further increase osseointegration and then in-vitro biocompatibility will be covered

Introduction. Robotic-arm assisted knee arthroplasty (rKA) has been associated with improved clinical, radiographic, and patient-reported outcomes. There is a paucity of literature, however, addressing its cost effectiveness. In the context of an integrated health system with an insurance plan and single source comprehensive data warehouse for electronic health records and claims data, we present an evaluation of healthcare costs and utilization associated with manual knee arthroplasty (mKA) versus rKA. We also examine the influence of rKA technology on surgeons’ practice patterns. Methods. Practice patterns of KA were assessed 18 months before and after introduction of robotic technology in April 2018. For patients also insured through the system's health plan, inpatient costs (actual costs recorded by health system), 90-day postoperative costs (allowed amounts paid by insurance plan), and 90-day postoperative utilization (length of stay, home health care visits, rehabilitation visits) were compared between mKA and rKA patients, stratified by total (TKA) or unicompartmental (UKA) surgery. Linear regression modeling was used to compare outcomes between the two pairs of groups (mKA vs. rKA, for both UKA and TKA). Log-link function and gamma error distribution was used for costs. All analyses were done using SAS statistical software, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant. Results. Overall KA volume increased 21%, from 532 cases in the pre-rKA period to 644 post-rKA introduction, with UKA surgeries increasing from 38 to 97 (155%). Of these KAs, 218 patients were insured through our system's health plan (38 rUKAs, 9 mUKAs, 91 rTKAs, and 80 mTKAs), allowing precise insurance claims analysis for postoperative utilization and cost. Patients with rKA had significantly lower mean home health costs (-90% difference for UKA, −79% difference for TKA, p<0.02) and home rehab costs (-64% difference for UKA, −73% difference for TKA, p≤0.007) than mKA patients. No significant differences were observed in outpatient rehab (visits or costs), total rehab costs, or length of stay. Mean total postoperative costs were significantly lower for rUKA than mUKA (-47% difference, p=0.02) but similar for TKA (p>0.05). There were no significant differences in total inpatient costs between MAKO and non-MAKO patients. Conclusion. Robotic-arm assisted KA can allow for increased UKA volume and potential for substantial cost savings over the total episode of care by reducing postoperative utilization and costs

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease affecting millions worldwide. Early detection of OA and monitoring its progression is essential for effective treatment and for preventing irreversible damage. Although sensors have emerged as a promising tool for monitoring analytes in patients, their application for monitoring the state of pathology is currently restricted to specific fields (such as diabetes). In this study, we present the development of an optical sensor system for real-time monitoring of inflammation based on the measurement of nitric oxide (NO), a molecule highly produced in tissues during inflammation. Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) were functionalized with a single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) wrapping designed using an artificial intelligence approach and tested using S-nitroso-N-acetyl penicillamine (SNAP) as a standard released-NO marker. An optical SWIR reader with LED excitation at 650 nm, 730 nm and detecting emission above 1000 nm was developed to read the fluorescence signal from the SWCNTs. Finally, the SWCNT was embedded in GelMa to prove the feasibility of monitoring the release of NO in bovine chondrocyte and osteochondral inflamed cultures (1–10 ng/ml IL1β) monitored over 48 hours. The stability of the inflammation model and NO release was indirectly validated using the Griess and DAF-FM methods. A microfabricated sensor tag was developed to explore the possibility of using ssDNA-SWCNT in an ex vivo anatomic set-up for surgical feasibility, the limit of detection, and the stability under dynamic flexion. The SWCNT sensor was sensitive to NO in both in silico and in vitro conditions during the inflammatory response from chondrocyte and osteochondral plug cultures. The fluorescence signal decreased in the inflamed group compared to control, indicating increased NO concentration. The micro-tag was suitable and stable in joints showing a readable signal at a depth of up to 6 mm under the skin. The ssDNA-SWCNT technology showed the possibility of monitoring inflammation continuously in an in vitro set-up and good stability inside the joint. However, further studies in vivo are needed to prove the possibility of monitoring disease progression and treatment efficacy in vivo. Acknowledgments: The project was co-financed by Innosuisse (grant nr. 56034.1 IP-LS)

Background. It is technically challenging to restore hip rotation center exactly in total hip arthroplasty (THA) for patients with end-stage osteoarthritis secondary to developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) due to the complicated acetabular morphology changes. In this study, we developed a new method to restore hip rotation center exactly and rapidly in THA with the assistance of three dimensional (3-D) printing technology. Methods. Seventeen patients (21 hips) with end-stage osteoarthritis secondary to DDH who underwent THA were included in this study. Simulated operations were performed on 3-D printed hip models for preoperative planning. The Harris fossa and acetabular notches were recognized and restored to locate acetabular center. The agreement on the size of acetabular cup and bone defect between simulated operations and actual operations were analyzed. Clinical and radiographic outcomes were recorded and evaluated. Results. The sizes of the acetabular cup of simulated operations on 3-D printing models showed a high rate of coincidence with the actual sizes in the operations(ICC value=0.930) There was no significant difference statistically between the sizes of bone defect in simulated operations and the actual sizes of bone defect in THA(t value=0.03 P value=0.97). The average Harris score of the patients was improved from (38.33±6.07) preoperatively to the last follow-up (88.61±3.44) postoperatively. The mean vertical and horizontal distances of hip rotation center on the pelvic radiographs were restored to (15.12 ± 1.25 mm and (32.49±2.83) mm respectively. No case presented dislocation or radiological signs of loosening until last follow-up. Conclusions. The application of 3-D printing technology facilitates orthopedists to recognize the morphology of Harris fossa and acetabular notches, locate the acetabular center and restore the hip rotation center rapidly and accurately

Decreasing the bulk weight without losing the biomechanical properties of commercial pure titanium (Cp-Ti) medical implants is now possible by using Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) technology. Gyroid lattice structures that have precious mechanical and biological advantages because of similarity to trabecular bone. The aim of the study was to design and develop L-PBF process parameter optimization for manufacturing gyroid lattice Cp-Ti structures. The cleaning process was then optimized to remove the non-melted powder from the gyroid surface without mechanical loss. Gyroid cubic designs were created with various relative densities by nTopology. L-PBF process parameter optimization was progressed using with Cp-Ti (EOS TiCP Grade2) powder in the EOS M290 machine to achieve parts that have almost full dense and dimensional accuracy. The metallography method was made for density. Dimensional accuracy at gyroid wall thicknesses was investigated between designed and manufactured via stereomicroscope, also mechanical tests were applied with real time experiment and numerical analysis (ANSYS). Mass loss and strut thickness loss were investigated for chemical etching cleaning process. Gyroid parts had 99,5% density. High dimensional accuracy was achieved during L-PBF process parameters optimization. Final L-PBF parameters gave the highest 19% elongation and 427 MPa yield strength values at tensile test. Mechanical properties of gyroid were controlled with changing relative density. A minute chemical etching provided to remove non-melted powders. Compression test results of gyroids at numerical and real-time analysis gave unrelated while deformation behaviors were compatible with each other. Gyroid Cp-Ti osteosynthesis mini plates will be produced with final L-PBF process parameters. MTT cytotoxicity test will be characterized for cell viability. Acknowledgements This project is granted by TUBITAK (120N943). Feza Korkusuz MD is a member of the Turkish Academy of Sciences (TÜBA)

Background of Study. Identification of the exact make and model of an orthopaedic implant prior to a revision surgery can be challenging depending upon the surgeon's experience and available knowledge base about the available implants. The current identification procedure is manual and time consuming as the surgeon may have to do a comprehensive search within an online database of radiographs of an implant to make a visual match. There is further time lapse in contacting that particular implant manufacturer to confirm the make and model of the implant and then order the whole inventory for the revision surgery. This leads to delay in treatment thus requiring extra hospital bed occupancy. Materials and Methods. We have analysed image recognition techniques currently in use for image recognition to understand the underlying technologies based on an interface commonly known as Application Programming interface (API). These API's specifies how the software components of the proposed application interact with each other. The objective of this study is to leverage one or a combination of API's to design a fully functional application in the initial phase and that can help recognize the implant accurately from a large database of radiographs and then develop a specialized and advanced API/Technology in the implant identification application. Results. Our study takes into account the existent technologies such as Facebook, Pictoria, Imagga, Google images. We found that there is an API currently available that can be directly applied to build an implant recognition system. However, commonly known Facebook's image tagging algorithms to store unique information with each image is the starting point to help build an intelligent system that in combination with image processing and development of a custom implant recognition API. Conclusion. There is an urgent need to have a robust and accurate system for identification of orthopaedic implants. Revision surgeries may need to be carried out by hospitals without access to index surgery operating notes. Patients may approach the most convenient not necessarily the same surgeon for a revision surgery. The dependency upon surgeon's experience, hospitals facilities and archiving of records can be avoided with the use of a single application that allows multiple manufacturers to contribute to a database of catalogue of their products

Purpose. South African arthroplasty surgeons commonly make use of new bearing surface technology. This new technology only has short term, industry funded clinical trials or simulator studies available to prove its performance and motivate its use. These products are being used despite the availability of conventional components with proven long term in vivo efficacy. In the light of the recent Du Puy ASR recall, which also showed initial good clinical results, we reviewed the available data on some of the new available bearing surface technology. Methods. We performed a literature search to identify the best available clinical data regarding duration of follow up and number of patients for a selection of new bearing surfaces and compared it to well known long term clinical follow up studies and joint registry data of conventional products. Results. New bearing surface technologies have no long term clinical supportive data. Short and medium term results are available, however these are limited and mainly industry funded. Simulator data constituts the bulk of research used as motivation for the introduction of new technologies. Conclusion. The currently available data on new bearing surface technology is not adequate to provide the arthroplasty surgeon with a confident opinion on long term safety and efficacy. Surgeons should be careful when recommending new products to their patients, who are usually well informed of new technology but often without the necessary insight. NO DISCLOSURES

Total ankle replacement (TAR) is contraindicated in patients with significant talar collapse due to AVN and in these patients total talus body prosthesis has been proposed to restore ankle joint. To date, five studies have reported implantation of a custom-made talar body in patients with severely damaged talus, showing the limit of short-term damage of tibial and calcaneal thalamic joint surfaces. Four of this kind of implants have been performed. The first two realized with “traditional” technology CAD-CAM has been performed in active patients affected by “missing talus” and now presents a survival follow-up of 15 and 17 years. For the third patient affected by massive talus AVN we designed a 3D printed porous titanium custom talar body prosthesis fixed on the calcaneum and coupled with a TAR, first acquiring high-resolution 3D CT images of the contralateral healthy talus that was “mirroring” obtaining the volume of fractured talus in order to provide the optimal fit. Then the 3D printed implant was manufactured. The fourth concern a TAR septic mobilization with high bone loss of the talus. The “two-stage” reconstruction conducted with the implant of total tibio-talo-calcaneal prosthesis “custom made” built with the same technology 3D, entirely in titanium and using the “trabecular metal” technology for the calcaneous interface. Weightbearing has progressively allowed after 6 weeks. No complications were observed. All the implants are still in place with an overall joint mobility ranging from 40° to 60°. This treatment requires high demanding technical skills and experience with TAR and foot and ankle trauma. The 15 years survival of 2 total talar prosthesis coupled to a TAR manufactured by a CAD-CAM procedure encourages consider this 3D printed custom implant as a new alternative solution for massive AVN and traumatic missing talus in active patients

INTRODUCTION. Measurement of range of motion is a critical item of any knee scoring system. Conventional measurements used in the clinical settings are not as precise as required. Smartphone technology using either inclinometer application or photographic technology may be more precise with virtually no additional cost when compared to more sophisticated techniques such as gait analysis or image analysis. No comparative analysis between these two techniques has been previously performed. The goal of the study was to compare these two technologies to the navigated measurement considered as the gold standard. MATERIAL. Ten patients were consecutively included. Inclusion criterion was implantation of a TKA with a navigation system. METHODS. Two free angle measurement applications were downloaded to the Smartphone: one using inclinometer technology, the other using camera technology. After navigation assisted TKA and just before wound closure, the operated knee was positioned at full extension, 30±2°, 60±2°, 90±2° and 120±2° according to the navigated measurement. At each step, the knee flexion angle was measured with both Smartphone applications: inclinometer application (figure 1) and camera application (figure 2). For each of the ten patients, 5 navigated, 5 inclinometer and 5 camera measurements were obtained for each patient, giving three sets of 50 repeat measurements. The sample size was calculated to get a significance level of 0.05 and a power of 0.8 to detect a 10° difference. The difference between the three sets of measurements was analyzed with an ANOVA test for repeat measurements, with post-hoc comparisons with a paired Wilcoxon test. The correlation between the three sets of measurements was analyzed with a Kendall test, with post-hoc comparisons with a Spearman test. All tests were performed at a 0.05 level of significance, and post-hoc comparisons were performed at a 0.01 level of significance. RESULTS. The mean paired difference between navigated and camera measurements was 0.7° (SD 1.5°), with one difference greater than 3°. The mean paired difference between navigated and inclinometer measurements was 7.5° (SD 5.3°), with 16 differences greater than 10°. The mean paired difference between inclinometer and camera measurements was −6.8° (SD5.2°), with 7 differences greater than 10°. The ANOVA test for repeat measurements showed a significant difference between the three sets of measurements (p<0.001). The results of post-hoc paired comparisons with the Wilcoxon test are reported in table 2. The Kendall test showed that the distribution of the three sets of measurements was no different. The post-hoc paired correlations with the Spearman test showed a good coherence between all pairs of measurements (R² between 0.02 and 0.12). No pre-operative criteria showed a significant influence on the differences observed. DISCUSSION. Measuring the knee flexion angle with the camera of a smartphone is effective in a routine clinical practice. Accuracy can be better than other conventional measurement techniques. All applications of a smartphone do not have the same precision and must be validated before clinical use. CONCLUSION. Smartphone technology enables a more accurate assessment of the knee range of motion after TKA than conventional measurement techniques. To view tables/figures, please contact authors directly

Local anatomical abnormalities vary in congenital hip disease patients. Authors often present early to mid-term total hip arthroplasty clinical outcomes using different techniques and implants randomly on patients with different types of the disease, making same conclusions difficult. We report long term outcomes (13 to 23 years) of the treatment of low and high dislocation cases (separately) with total hip arthroplasty using TM technology acetabular cups (Implex initially and then Zimmer) and short fluted conical (Zimmer) femoral stems. From 2000 to 2010, 418 congenital hip disease hip joints were treated in our department with total hip arthroplasty. According to Hartofilakidis et al's classification, 230 hips had dysplasia, 101 low dislocation, (group A) and 87 high dislocation (group B). Pre-operative and post-operative values, at regular intervals, of HHS, SF-12, WOMAC, OHS and HOOS were available for all patients. Patient, surgeon and implant related failures and complications were recorded for all patients. In all cases an attempt was made to restore hip center of rotation. In group A the average lengthening was 2.8 cm (range: 1 to 4.2) and in group B 5.7 cm (range: 4.2 to 11). In both groups, no hips were revised due to aseptic loosening of either the acetabular cup or the femoral stem. In group A, a cumulative success rate of 95.6% (95% confidence interval, 92.7% – 97.4%) and in group B a cumulative success rate of 94.8% (95% confidence interval, 92.6%–96.9%) was recorded, at 20 years, with revision for any reason as an end point. No s.s. differences were found between groups when mean values of HHS, SF-12, WOMAC and OKS were compared. Satisfactory long-term clinical outcomes can be achieved in treating different types of congenital hip disease when appropriate surgical techniques combined with “game changing” implants are used

Aims. Complex joint fractures of the lower extremity are often accompanied by soft-tissue swelling and are associated with prolonged hospitalization and soft-tissue complications. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of vascular impulse technology (VIT) on soft-tissue conditioning in comparison with conventional elevation. Methods. A total of 100 patients were included in this prospective, randomized, controlled monocentre study allocated to the three subgroups of dislocated ankle fracture (n = 40), pilon fracture (n = 20), and intra-articular calcaneal fracture (n = 40). Patients were randomized to the two study groups in a 1:1 ratio. The effectiveness of VIT (intervention) compared with elevation (control) was analyzed separately for the whole study population and for the three subgroups. The primary endpoint was the time from admission until operability (in days). Results. The mean length of time until operability was 8.2 days (SD 3.0) in the intervention group and 10.2 days (SD 3.7) in the control group across all three fractures groups combined (p = 0.004). An analysis of the subgroups revealed that a significant reduction in the time to operability was achieved in two of the three: with 8.6 days (SD 2.2) versus 10.6 days (SD 3.6) in ankle fractures (p = 0.043), 9.8 days (SD 4.1) versus 12.5 days (SD 5.1) in pilon fractures (p = 0.205), and 7.0 days (SD 2.6) versus 8.4 days (SD 1.5) in calcaneal fractures (p = 0.043). A lower length of stay (p = 0.007), a reduction in pain (p. preop. = 0.05; p. discharge. < 0.001) and need for narcotics (p. preop. = 0.064; p. postop. = 0.072), an increased reduction in swelling (p < 0.001), and a lower revision rate (p = 0.044) could also be seen, and a trend towards fewer complications (p = 0.216) became apparent. Conclusion. Compared with elevation, VIT results in a significant reduction in the time to achieve operability in complex joint fractures of the lower limb. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(4):746–754

Crosslinking has been already used for about 80 years to enhance the longevity of polyethylene cables. The polymer alteration has been achieved with peroxide, silane or irradiation. The medical devices industry discovered the benefit of this technology for its tribological applications like hip or knee bearings in the 2000s as crosslinking improves considerably the abrasion resistance of the material. The more current methods used are Gamma and Beta irradiation. On the basis of economical (rising prices of Cobalt), environmental (the radioactive source can not be turned off), technological (low dose rate) drawbacks for Gamma respectively low penetration for Beta irradiation we decided to investigate an alternative technology: the X-Ray irradiation, which provides a homogeneous crosslinking in a relatively short time. We analyzed the wear, mechanical, thermal, oxidative and network properties of two vitamin E doped UHMWPE: first crosslinked with E-Beam, second with X-Ray. There wasn't any significant difference between the X-Ray and the E-Beam crosslinked material

Shoulder arthroplasty has experienced exponential growth in the past 10–15 years, largely due to improvements in anatomical design, increased application of technology to address various clinical pathology, and improved access to experienced shoulder surgeons. Glenohumeral arthritis has historically been the most common indication for a shoulder replacement, and glenoid wear has been the main concern with regards to longevity of the prosthesis. Attempts to improve glenoid components involve alterations in peg or keel configuration, as well as the introduction of metal backed constructs. Early experience with metal backed components led to very poor results with often catastrophic loosening and destruction of glenoid bone. Proximal humerus fractures are another common indication for a shoulder arthroplasty, and in these cases, tuberosity fixation and healing are the challenge precluding a consistently successful result. More recently, base plate fixation in the setting of a reverse shoulder arthroplasty has come to the forefront as a significant factor. Trabecular metal technology has emerged as a compelling method of enabling powerful bone ingrowth to the surfaces of arthroplasty components. Trabecular metal is composed of tantalum. It is used to form a carbon scaffold which has a modulus between that of cancellous and cortical bone, thus has some flexibility when made into an independent construct. Vapor deposition onto arthroplasty surfaces provides a bone ingrowth surface. There is interest in utilizing trabecular metal for glenoid and tuberosity fixation in particular. Trabecular metal proximal coated stems provide an ingrowth surface for tuberosity fixation in the setting of proximal humerus fractures. Long term results are still pending. Because the metal is much less stiff then other metals, trabecular metal has recently been used along the back of polyethylene glenoids. The original design had a problem with fracture at the base of the pegs. A redesigned component instituting a cruciate design was implemented, and is currently available on a limited release basis with promising early results. The use of trabecular metal on the deep surface of the reverse arthroplasty baseplate and the proximal aspect of the reverse stem has led to successful fixation, allowing cementless fixation of both the humeral and glenoid components. Learning objectives of this presentation include:. Understand the mechanical characteristics of trabecular metal and its bone ingrowth characteristics. Familiarize with currently available prosthetics incorporating trabecular metal technology. Case presentations utilizing trabecular metal coated components

The plasma spray(TPS) has come to be accepted as one of the more reliable methods of porous coating of prosthesis, it is not without some technical limitations, especially with regard to precise modulation of pore size, porosity, and roughness. However, the plasma spray(TPS) not often but seriously faces problems such as bead detachment related poor osteointegration, weakness of metal strength and high manufacturing costs in addition to its various technical limitations. Currently, there has been much research into developing a more economical and effective method for porous coating of the prosthesis. In light of such demand, 3D Printing with DMT Technology has been introduced into the field of surface treatment of prosthesis with promising expectations. DMT technology -an additive fabrication process that uses high-power laser and various metal powders in order to produce fully dense and geometrically complex metal components, molds, and dies directly from digital CAD model data of 3D subjects aims to help overcome many of the problems associated with plasma spray and thereby open a new chapter of endless possibilities for coating technology. In this study, the porous coating specimen using 3-D DMT metal printing was characterized morphologically as well as biomechanically, in terms of 1) pore size 2) porosity 3) tensile strength 4) shear strength 5) roughness respectively. The biological cyto-compatibility was evaluated by culturing human osteoblast-like cells(Saos-2: ATCC HTB85) on the surface of round discs with porous coating to demonstrate the biological influence on the porosity of the specimens with different surface treatment for comparative analysis. The evaluation was accompanied by assessment of cell proliferation and morphology with arrangement of actin filament and expression of adhesion molecule with α. v. β. 3. integrin. While 3-D DMT coating specimen showed relatively regular porosity in the range of 150–500µm with the increase of porosity about 83%, the mechanical behavior remarkably improved, compared to TPS: shear strength 13%, fatigue failure 30%, roughness 16%, respectively. Also worth noting, the tensile strength was unable to be measured because the glue for test had fallen off. (Fig. 1) There is no transitional zone underneath the porous coating layer.(Fig. 2) From the aspect of biocompatibility, 3-D coating showed better cell attachment, spreading of cytoskeleton, cell proliferation, and expression of osteogenic markers than TPS, even if not significantly.(Fig. 3) Additionally, cell migration assay was performed with double chamber study, and gene expression was evaluated by measuring alkaline phosphatase(ALP) levels and analyzing mRNA expression for ostepontin(OPG) and osteocalcin(OC). In conclusion, the study reinforces the popular stance that the implementation of 3-D DMT could open up new possibilities for coating technology and form a new chapter in the history of prosthesis development

Biological fixation of arthroplasty devices through osseointegration via ingrowth or ongrowth can be achieved with a numerous surface treatments and technologies. Surface roughness and topography have evolved to include sintered bead, calcium phosphate coatings and more recently additive manufacturing techniques. Regardless of the technique employed, the clinical goal has always been directed at improving osseointegration and achieve rapid, stable and long-term implant fixation without compromising the mechanical properties of the device. Pre-clinical models provide insight into the in-vivo efficacy. The in vivo results of a wide range of technologies over the past 20 years have been examined by our laboratory using an adult ovine cortical and cancellous implantation model. This paper will present a twenty year experience of pre-clinical evaluation of bone ingrowth and ongrowth surfaces used for arthroplasty device fixation. The endpoints as well as understanding of the dynamic nature of the bone-implant interface continues to evolve as advanced manufacturing moves forward and the demands on the interface due to patient and surgeon expectations increase

Rural surgical practice in Australia provides a unique environment to the Orthopaedic Surgeon. Whilst most of the work load mimics that of city practice, the rural surgeon has little choice but to master a broad schema of surgical skills, and keeping up with the current literature and techniques can be challenging. At our public hospital over the last audited twelve month period, 108 primary total knee replacements were performed by 4 surgeons out of 236 joint replacements including revision surgeries. At the Private hospital a total of 215 joint replacements were performed in the same period including revision surgeries, of which 127 were knee arthroplasties. It is recognised that the incidence of complications from arthroplasty can be increased in low volume joint replacement surgeons. This centre is a mid volume centre, but rural and generally underfunded. In light of this, it is not unreasonable to look at techniques or evolving technologies that may improve the ability of an individual surgeon to position a joint replacement in an optimal position and with economic consideration. Conventional navigation has a number of factors associated with it that may make its use in a rural centre less attractive. These include capital cost of both hardware and software; Most rural centres do not have the ability to purchase the hardware and thus the issue of transporting hard ware on site, and representative support, may all be issues. The potential benefit of patient specific implants [PSI] may thus be two-fold in this setting. The surgeon and the patient benefit from the technology, but the technology does not need to be transported to the site. As a result of these considerations, a single surgeon in a rural centre, commenced using PSI's after gaining initial experience with the implant using traditional techniques. This early study looks at this experience and attempts to quantify some of the issues around this technology

Metal-polycarbonate urethane (MPU) bearing is a cutting-edge new bearing technology for hip reconstruction. It consists of a 3mm-thick pliable acetabular cup which biomechanically mimics human cartilage and can be coupled with large diameter metal heads. In pristine sockets, no acetabular bone reaming is required to insert the cup. No cement is needed and the cup is simply snapped by hand into a groove made with a special tool. In deformed sockets, the standard reaming technique must be used. The cup acts as a liner inserted into an uncemented metal shell. MPU bearing has been analysed in comparative in vitro studies. Clinical and radiographic results have been recorded at a minimum follow-up of 2 years in 202 femoral neck fracture patients. Polycarbonate-urethane elasticity is 20MPa (70 times less than UMHWPE, 10,500 times less than CoCr, p < 0.001). The number of particles generated per step is 1000 with MPU, 1,000,000 with ceramic-ceramic and metal-metal (MOM) (p< 0.001). Fluid film thickness is 0.25microns with MPU, 0.02 with MOM (p< 0.001). At a minimum follow-up of 2 years, X-rays showed good implant stability. In sockets where the buffer alone was implanted an improvement of the supraacetabular bone density was observed over time. Mean Harris hip score after 1 month was 58 points, increasing to 80 points at 2 years (p < 0.05). One patient was revised, due to non-implant-related pain. The in vitro and clinical data support the use of this novel bearing technology which has the potential to revolutionize hip arthroplasty

Wireless technologies applied to the medical field have grown both in prevalence and importance in the past decade. Various applications and technologies exist underneath the telemedicine umbrella including Point-of-Care systems where electrocardiographs, blood pressure, temperature, and medical image data are recorded and transmitted wirelessly, which enables remote patient monitoring from inside hospitals, personal residences, and virtually any location with access to satellite communication. Another widespread application for wireless systems in hospitals is asset tracking, typically done with RFID technology. Wireless technologies have not been widely used in computer assisted orthopaedic surgery (CAOS) because of the limitations in terms of overall 3-D accuracy. We have developed a wireless positioning system based on ultra wideband technology (UWB) which achieves mm-range 3-D dynamic accuracy and can be used for intraoperative tracking in CAOS systems. Current intraoperative tracking technologies include optical and electromagnetic tracking systems. The main limitations with these systems include the need for line-of-sight in optical systems and the limited view volume and susceptibility to metallic interference in electromagnetic tracking systems. UWB indoor positioning does not suffer from these effects. Until this point, the main limitation of UWB indoor positioning systems was its limitation in 3-D real-time dynamic accuracy (10–15 cm as opposed to the required 1–2 mm). We have developed a UWB indoor positioning system which achieves dynamic 3-D accuracy in the range of 5–6 mm for a non-coherent approach and 0.5–1 mm for a coherent approach (transmitter and receiver use the same clock signal). The integration of this tracking system with smart surgical tools opens up a plethora of exciting intraoperative applications including picking landmarks, 3-D bone and instrument registration, real-time wireless pressure sensing used for ligament balancing in TKA, and real-time A-mode ultrasound bone morphing. The UWB tracking system will be presented along with its integration into smart surgical tools and surgical navigation

The use of 3D imaging methodologies in orthopaedics has allowed the introduction of new technologies, such as the design of patient-specific implants or surgical instrumentation. This has introduced the need for high accuracy, in addition to a correct diagnosis. Until recently, little was known about the accuracy of MR imaging to reconstruct 3D models of the skeletal anatomy. This study was conducted to quantify the accuracy of MRI-based segmentation of the knee joint. Nine knees of unfixed human cadavers were used to compare the accuracy of MR imaging to an optical scan. MR images of the specimens were obtained with a 1.5T clinical MRI scanner (GE Signa HDxt), using a slice thickness of 2 mm and a pixel size of 0.39 mm × 0.39 mm. Manual segmentation of the images was done using Mimics® (Materialise NV, Leuven, Belgium). The specimens were cleaned using an acetone treatment to remove soft-tissue but to keep the cartilage intact. The cleaned bones were optically scanned using a white-light optical scanner (ATOS II by GOM mbH, Braunschweig, Germany) having a resolution of 1.2 million pixels per measuring volume, yielding an accuracy of 0.02 mm. The optical scan of each bone reflects the actual dimensions of the bone and is considered as a ground truth measurement. First, a registration of the optical scan and the MRI-based 3D reconstruction was performed. Then, the optical scan was compared to the 3D model of the bone by calculating the distance of the vertices of the optical scan to the reconstructed 3D object. Comparison of the 3D reconstruction using MRI images and the optical scans resulted in an average absolute error of 0.67 mm (± 0.52 mm standard deviation) for segmentation of the cartilage surface, with an RMS value of circa twice the pixel size. Segmenting the bone surface resulted in an average absolute error of 0.42 mm (± 0.38 mm standard deviation) and an RMS error of 1.5 times the pixel size. This accuracy is higher than reported previously by White, who compared MRI and CT imaging by looking at the positioning of landmarks on 3D printed models of the segmented images using a calliper [White, 2008]. They reported an average accuracy of 2.15 mm (± 2.44 mm) on bone using MRI images. In comparison, Rathnayaka compared both CT- and MRI-based 3D models to measurements of the real bone using a mechanical contact scanner [Rathnayaka, 2012]. They listed an accuracy of 0.23 mm for MRI segmentation using five ovine limbs. This study is one of the first to report on the segmentation accuracy of MRI technology on knee cartilage, using human specimens and a clinical scanning protocol. The results found for both bone and cartilage segmentation demonstrate the feasibility of accurate 3D reconstructions of the knee using MRI technology

Although metal-on-metal hip resurfacing (MOMHR) is becoming a well accepted indication for young active patients with hip deformities, it does not come without its disadvantages. Longterm bone atrophy, serum metal ion elevation, metal ion hypersensitivity and the formation of pseudotumours have all been reported in the literature. It is thus clear that there is a need for novel bearing technology. A potentially revolutionary hip resurfacing system comes in the form of the TriboFit. ®. Hip System, which comprises a 2.7 mm-thick acetabular buffer made of polycarbonate-urethane, a hydrophilic, biocompatible, endotoxin-resistant material which mimics the fluid film layer naturally present in hip joints. This is a pliable implant whose modulus of elasticity is the same as that of normal human cartilage, thus providing optimum shock absorption. In addition, it induces lubrication, which is of the utmost importance as friction is almost eliminated, resulting in a subsequent decrease in the production of wear particles. Indeed, in vitro studies have shown that metal wear is 7-fold less than with a comparable metal-on-metal implant. The TriboFit. ®. Buffer is implanted using flexible mechanical fixation. With a special instrument, a circumferential groove is cut into the patients’ socket. The TriboFit. ®. Buffer is seated by applying gentle pressure, with its ledge snapping tightly into the groove. The surgical technique is bone sparing as no acetabular bone reaming is required whatsoever. The TriboFit. ®. Buffer can be coupled with a select number of metal hip resurfacing femoral components. In our centre, we have used this novel bearing technology to treat patients with both osteoarthritis (two patients) and avascular necrosis (four patients). The mean patient age was 50 years (range 30 to 63). In five patients who had a well preserved socket anatomy, the TriboFit. ®. Buffer was implanted without reaming the acetabular bone. In one patient with significant osteoarthritic changes of the socket, the TriboFit. ®. Buffer was inserted into a specially manufactured uncemented metal shell, using the TriboFit. ®. Buffer as a liner. The socket was reamed according to the standard reaming technique. In two patients a Birmingham hip resurfacing (BHR) femoral component was used and in the other four an ADEPT component was used. Rehabilitation was fast and uncomplicated. The mean follow-up of these patients was one year. The mean preoperative Harris hip score (HHS) was 62. The mean HHS at one year was 99 (p = < 0.05). X-rays showed good quality bone at the bone-implant interface. No osteolysis, loosening, or bone rarefaction was observed. At follow-up, two patients resumed sporting activities. One patient resumed skiing while the other resumed biking. Our pilot study shows that TriboFit. ®. Buffer hip resurfacing arthroplasty is a valid alternative to MOMHR. Compared to the latter, the major advantage includes significantly lower metal wear generation, without any differences in the functional results. This new technology has the potential to expand the use of hip resurfacing to patients with renal malfunction, metal ion allergy/hypersensitivity and to fertile females

Purpose: Few opportunities exist for physicians to easily obtain immediate insights or solicit direct advice from a respected peer on a complicated case. As a result, physicians end up relying heavily on journals, textbooks, and other dated resources that may prove to be dated or inadequate in addressing unique patient problems. Furthermore, the typical training modules available are limited to a one- or two-day experience. Often times this situation does not provide an adequate understanding of the surgical indications, techniques, and potential complications in the application of new technology. Consequently, many surgeons fail to adopt new technologies due to their lack of understanding of the application of such novel technologies. Recently, Reynolds et al studied the effect of peer collaboration among surgeons at a weekly surgery conference. They found that changes in surgical decision-making occurred in 12.5% of all cases reviewed and in 20% of the complex cases. However, collaboration should not be limited to weekly meetings or annual conferences. The Internet has introduced Collaborative Knowledge Networks (CKNs) that allow communities of surgeons to collaborate virtually on complex patient cases—allowing for rapid, bidirectional information. SpineConnect has surfaced as an example of a CKN that allows orthopedic spine surgeons to discuss surgical decisions. Method: We studied the use of Internet collaboration among spine surgeons using the SpineConnect website. We also compared the improvement in the adoption rate of novel technologies using technology fellowships versus traditional training modules. These fellowships use both in-person and virtual collaboration through the Spine-Connect platform as a new means of training physicians. Results: Using the SpineConnect website, surgical decision-making and planning was altered in 34% of active users and 90% agreed that the ability to collaborate with their peers, using a dedicated website, has improved their ability to practice spinal surgery. Continuous communication and dialogue resulting from the technology training fellowships encouraged better understanding of surgical indications, a greater comprehension of surgical technique, and a mechanism to discuss and solve complications. When such fellowships were implemented, we found a 30% improvement in adoption rate over traditional training modules. Conclusion: The treatment of spine surgery patients has benefited from the utilization of collaborative platforms such as SpineConnect. In spine surgeon training and education, we found that CKNs promoted better surgical decision-making and increased understanding of new technology application

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to assess the accuracy of three-dimensional camera technology when monitoring deformity correction by an Ilizarov frame and to compare it to manual measurements. Methods and Results. A model consisting of an Ilizarov frame built around an artificial tibia and fibula was used with retro-reflective markers placed on the frame and bones to allow for the positions of each to be detected by the camera system. Measurements made by the camera system were compared to measurements taken manually. In the assessment of frame lengthening, the camera system average error was 2% (SD 2%) compared to 7% (SD 6%) for manual measurement. In the assessment of bone lengthening, the camera system average error was 4% (SD 4%) compared to 34% (SD 8%) for manual measurement. The technology also demonstrated good accuracy in the measurement of angular deformity changes. Conclusion. The results of this study demonstrate that the measurement of deformity correction with three-dimensional infra-red camera technology is superior to manual measurements in a model of deformity correction. This method could replace or greatly reduce x-ray exposure in monitoring deformity correction post-operatively

Introduction. The most common bearing couple used in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) articulating against a CoCrMo alloy femoral component. Although this couple has demonstrated good clinical results, UHMWPE wear has been identified as one of the principal causes for long-term failure of total knee joint replacements. 1. indicating a need for improvements in TKA bearings technology. The wear resistance of UHMWPE can be improved by radiation crosslinking; however, in order to get the full benefit of this improved wear resistance, an abrasion resistant ceramic counterface is necessary. 2. Since the radiation crosslinking degrades mechanical properties, it is also important to have an optimized radiation dose and subsequent processing. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term wear performance of VERILAST Technology comprising two advanced bearing technologies, abrasion resistant OXINIUM femoral components (OxZr). 3-4. and wear/strength optimized 7.5 Mrad crosslinked polyethylene (7.5-XLPE). 5. Materials and Methods. Three component assemblies of LEGION(tm) cruciate retaining (CR) OxZr femoral components, 7.5-XLPE tibial inserts were tested on an AMTI knee simulator under displacement control at 1 Hz frequency as described previously. 2. The tibial inserts were manufactured from compression molded GUR 1020 UHMWPE, radiation crosslinked to 7.5 Mrad dose, remelted to extinguish free radicals, and sterilized by EtO. The wear test was conducted for 45 Mcycle, which was considered to be a conservative estimate for the amount of cycles that would occur during 30 years of typical in-vivo use based on the relationship between patient age and the number of loading cycles as reported in the literature. 6-8. Results. The predominant wear feature on the 7.5-XLPE inserts was burnishing. There were no signs of fatigue wear or delamination. The mean volumetric wear rate (± SD) of the 7.5-XLPE inserts articulating against OxZr femoral components for 45 Mcycle was 0.58±0.17 mm. 3. /Mcycle. In a previous wear test under substantially identical conditions for 5 Mcycle simulating approximately 3 years of use, the mean volumetric wear rate of CoCr and virgin UHMWPE (CPE) couples was 23.4±2.4 mm. 3. /Mcycle. 2. The mean volumetric wear rate of the OxZr/7.5-XLPE couples was approximately 98% lower compared to the CoCr/CPE couples (p<0.01). After simulating 3 years of use, the mean volumetric wear of OxZr/7.5-XLPE couples (2.67 mm. 3. ) was approximately 98% lower than CoCr/CPE couples (120.42 mm. 3. ) (Figure 1). Furthermore, after simulating 30 years of use, the mean volumetric wear of OxZr/7.5-XLPE couples (22.78mm. 3. ) was approximately 81% lower than the CoCr/CPE couples after simulating 3 years of use (120.42 mm. 3. ) (Figure 2). Discussion. This study demonstrates that coupling OxZr femoral components with 7.5-XLPE inserts results in a TKA bearing combination that provides and maintains significantly lower, long-term wear performance

Introduction:. Cam type femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) may lead to osteoarthritis (OA)[1]. In 2D studies, an alpha angle greater than 55° was considered abnormal however limitations of 2D alpha angle measurement have led to the development of 3D methods [2–4]. Failure to completely address the bony impingement lesions during surgery has been the most common reason for unsuccessful hip arthroscopy surgery [5]. Robotic technology has facilitated more accurate surgery in comparison to the conventional means. In this study we aim to assess the potential application of robotic technology in dealing with this technically challenging procedure of cam sculpting surgery. Methods:. CT scans of three patients' hips with severe cam deformity (A, B and C models) were obtained and used to construct 3D dry bone models. A 3D surgical plan was made in custom written software. Each 3D plan was imported into the Acrobot Sculptor robot and bone resection was carried out. In total, 42 femoral models were sculpted (14/subset), thirty of which were performed by a single operator and the remaining 12 femurs were resected by two other operators. CT of the pre/post resected specimens was segmented and a 3D alpha angle and head neck ratios were measured [3–4] and compared using Mann-Whitney U test. Coefficient of variation (CV) was used to determine the degree of variation between the mean and maximum observed alpha angles for inter and intra observer repeatability. Results:. The maximal alpha angle in cam A, B and C (90.8°, 91.3° and 87.1°). There was significant reduction (p < 0.001) in maximum alpha angles post-operatively within all three models when compared to original model (Figure 1). The HNRs for cam A, B and C prior to surgery were found to be 3.2, 3.4 and 3.1 respectively that were reduced to a mean of 3.0 ± 0.1, 3.1 ± 0.1 and 3.1 ± 0.0, following resection surgery. The results of the intra and inter-observer repeatability study found good reproducibility (CV<10%) of the maximum and mean alpha angles between the 12 resected femurs. Discussion:. In this study we evaluated the use of robotic system to perform cam correction surgery by evaluating the 3D morphology of head/neck prior to and post surgery. With existing surgical options there is a potential for under or over-resection of the cam lesion, which runs the risk of the need for further surgery or rarely neck fracture and dislocation. Based on the calculated alpha angles and HNRs we have proved that we have successfully performed the surgery by avoiding under and over resection respectively. Amore accurate bony resection performed here may minimize the complications due to over and under resection and hence will decrease the burden on the health service

Background. Dislocation is a common complication after proximal and total femur prosthesis reconstruction for primary bone sarcoma patients. Expandable prosthesis in children puts an additional challenge due to the lengthening process. Hip stability is impaired due to multiple factors: Resection of the hip stabilizers as part of the sarcoma resection: forces acts on the hip during the lengthening; and mismatch of native growing acetabulum to the metal femoral head. Surgical solutions described in literature are various with reported low rates of success. Objective. Assess a novel 3D surgical planning technology by use of 3D models (computerized and physical), 3D planning, and Patient Specific Instruments (PSI) in supporting correction of young children suffering from hip instability after expandable prosthesis reconstruction following proximal femur resection. This innovative technology creates a new dimension of visualization and customization, and could improve understanding of this complex problem and facilitate the surgical decision making and procedure. Method. Two children, both patients with Ewing Sarcoma of the left proximal femur stage-IIB, ages 3/5 years at diagnosis, were treated with conventional chemotherapy followed by proximal femur resection. Both were reconstructed with expandable prosthesis (one at resection and other 4 years after resection). Hip migration developed gradually during lengthening process in the 24m follow up period. 3D software (Mimics, Materialise, Belgium) were used to make computerized 3D models of patients' pelvises. These were used to 3D print 1:1 physical models. Custom 3D planning software (MSk Lab, Imperial College London) allowed surgeons visualizing the anatomical status and assess of problem severity. Thereafter, osteotomies planes and the desired position of acetabular roof after reduction of hip joint were planned by the surgeons. These plans were used to generate 3D printed PSIs to guide the osteotomies during shelf and triple osteotomy surgeries. Accuracy of planning and PSIs were verified with fluoroscopy and post-op X-rays, by comparing cutting planes and post-op position of the acetabulum. Results. Surgeons reported excellent experience with the 3D models (computerized and physical). It helped them in the decision process with an improved understanding of the relationship between prosthesis head and acetabulum, a clear view of the osteophytes and bone formation surrounding the pseudoacetabulum, and osteophytes inside the native acetabulum. These osteophytes were not immediately visible on 2D CT imaging slices. Surgeons reported a good fit and PSIs' simplicity of use. The hip stability was satisfactory during surgery and in the immediate post-op period. X-ray showed a good and centered position of the hip and good levels of the osteotomies. Conclusions. 3D surgical planning and 3D printing was found to be very effective in assisting surgeons facing complex problems. In these particular cases neither CT nor MRI were able to visualize all bony formation and entrapment of prosthesis in the pseudoacetabulum. 3D visualisation can be very helpful for surgical treatment decisions, and by planning and executing surgery with the guidance of PSIs, surgeons can improve their surgical results. We believe that 3D technology and its advantages, can improve success rates of hip stability in this unique cohort of patients

This study evaluates high power low frequency ultrasound transmitted via a flat vibrating probe tip as an alternative technology for meniscal debridement in the knee. A limitation of this technology is thermal damage in residual meniscal tissue. To compare tissue removal rate and thermal damage for a radiofrequency ablation device and an experimental ultrasound ablation device. Twelve bovine meniscal specimens were treated in an identical fashion with (a) a 3.75mm 50° bipolar radiofrequency wand, Arthrocare Super Multivac 50 Arthrowand (Arthrocare Corporation, Sunnyvale, CA), operated in a free-hand manner in accordance with manufacturers instructions (n=6), and (b) an experimental flat-tipped 3mm 20kHz ultrasound probe, suspended vertically in a 500N force-controlled experimental rig (n=6). Tissue removal rate (TRR), zone of thermal necrosis and zone of thermal alteration were calculated. Histological sections were prepared for each sample (H&E). Independent samples t-test was used to compare TRR, zone of thermal necrosis and zone of thermal alteration. Statistical analysis was performed using PASW Statistics (v.18, IBM SPSS Statistics, Chicago, IL, U.S.A.). The mean TRR for meniscal debridement by the radiofrequency device was 5.59±1.1mg/s. This compared with a mean TRR of 4.74±1.4mg/s for debridement with the ultrasound device at settings (p=0.259, NS). Mean depth of tissue removal using the radiofrequency device was 2.21±0.26mm compared to 3.75±0.25mm (p< 0.001, ?. 2. =0.09). Using the radiofrequency device, the mean depth of zone of thermal alteration was 1282±436µm, compared with 710±251µm for the force-controlled ultrasound device (p=0.29, ?. 2. =0.42). For the radiofrequency device, the mean depth of zone of thermal necrosis was 64±41µm versus 97±44µm for the ultrasound device (p=0.239, NS). We observed a trend towards an increased zone of thermal necrosis and a reduced zone of thermal alteration for the ultrasound device, when compared with the radiofrequency device. Ultrasonic debridement shows comparable thermal damage to existing radiofrequency meniscal debridement technology

Acetabular cup placement in total hip replacement surgery is often difficult to assess, especially in the lateral position and using the posterior approach. On table control X-Rays are not always accessible, especially in the government sector. Conventional techniques and computer assisted surgery (CAS), are currently the two most popular methods for proper placement of the acetabular cup in Lewinnek's safe zone of orientation (anteversion 15°–10° and lateral inclination 40°±10°). We developed a simple way to get accurate cup placement using Smartphone technology. Methods:. A spirit level application was downloaded to the Smartphone. The acetabulum inclination was measured on the pre-operative X-Rays. The phone is placed in a sterile bag and then used intra-operatively, to measure and set our acetabular cup orientation to our pre-operative measurements. The inclination level was measured before and after final placement of the acetabular cup. This was compared to the acetabular cup inclination in our post-operative X-Rays. Results:. In our series of 50 cup placements we found high accuracy. The results show less than 5° deviation between our pre-, intra- and post-operative measurements. Conclusions:. Smartphone technology proves to be good alternative to conventional methods and CAS, to improve Acetabular Cup placement in Total Hip Arthroplasty

Introduction: Improved biomechanics and stem fit facilitated by gender adepted dual stems and modularity has the potential to make THA easier and thereby decrease the complication rate. Increased fretting wear at the connecting interfaces may be a drawback. 10 year survival exceeding 90% is required to endorse modular necks and dual stem gender technology. Materials and Methods: We followed the first 190 consecutive implantations of an uncemented, straight femoral stem with dual stem technology and modular necks (European Hip System (EHS)/Profemur E, Wright Medical Technology Inc., Arlington, TN, USA) and a grit blasted titanium acetabular cup with a ceramic on polyethylene bearing in 178 patients from 1992 to 1997. Mean time of follow-up evaluation was 10 (8–13) years. Titanium serum ion levels were measured to detect fretting in the metal connection. Results: At follow-up, 21 patients (22 hips, 11.6%) had died, and 13 (14 hips, 7.4%) were lost to follow-up. One hip underwent femoral revision for a periprosthetic fracture. Overall stem survival was 99 (98–100) % at 10 years, survival with femoral revision for aseptic loosening as an end point was 100 (99–100) % at 10 years. Three acetabular components were revised, one for infection and two for aseptic loosening of the titanium shell. There was one fracture of a high offset modular neck at the laser labeling without trauma; the design was changed subsequently. The mean Harris-Hip-Score at follow-up was 88 points. 153 hips were available for radiolographic evaluation. No case of femoral or acetabular osteolysis or loosening was found. Accelerated wear was not detected on radiographs. No dislocation was found during the study period. The results showed no increased titanium serum ion levels compared to an age matched control group. Conclusions: The complication rate with this uncemented modular gender hip system was extremely low with a high patient (and surgeon) satisfaction. The modular neck system as well as the dual stem technology proved to be reliable. The metal ion analysis revealed no elevated serum ion levels. Modular necks and dual gender stems are a reliable and durable option in primary total hip arthroplasty

Objectives. Bioresorbable orthopaedic devices with calcium phosphate (CaP) fillers are commercially available on the assumption that increased calcium (Ca) locally drives new bone formation, but the clinical benefits are unknown. Electron beam (EB) irradiation of polymer devices has been shown to enhance the release of Ca. The aims of this study were to: 1) establish the biological safety of EB surface-modified bioresorbable devices; 2) test the release kinetics of CaP from a polymer device; and 3) establish any subsequent beneficial effects on bone repair in vivo. Methods. ActivaScrew Interference (Bioretec Ltd, Tampere, Finland) and poly(L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) orthopaedic screws containing 10 wt% β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) underwent EB treatment. In vitro degradation over 36 weeks was investigated by recording mass loss, pH change, and Ca release. Implant performance was investigated in vivo over 36 weeks using a lapine femoral condyle model. Bone growth and osteoclast activity were assessed by histology and enzyme histochemistry. Results. Calcium release doubled in the EB-treated group before returning to a level seen in untreated samples at 28 weeks. Extensive bone growth was observed around the perimeter of all implant types, along with limited osteoclastic activity. No statistically significant differences between comparative groups was identified. Conclusion. The higher than normal dose of EB used for surface modification did not adversely affect tissue response around implants in vivo. Surprisingly, incorporation of β-TCP and the subsequent accelerated release of Ca had no significant effect on in vivo implant performance, calling into question the clinical evidence base for these commercially available devices. Cite this article: I. Palmer, S. A. Clarke, F. J Buchanan. Enhanced release of calcium phosphate additives from bioresorbable orthopaedic devices using irradiation technology is non-beneficial in a rabbit model: An animal study. Bone Joint Res 2019;8:266–274. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.86.BJR-2018-0224.R2

Introduction. 3-D Printing with direct metal tooling (DMT) technology was innovatively introduced in the field of surface treatment of prosthesis to improve, moreover to overcome the problems of plasma spray, hopefully resulting in opening the possibility of another page of coating technology. We presumed such modification on the surface of Co-Cr alloy by DMT would improve the ability of Co-Cr alloys to osseointegrate. Method. We compared the in vitro and in vivo ability of cells to adhere to DMT coated Co-Cr alloy to that of two different types of surface modifications: machined and plasma spray(TPS). We performed energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy and scanned electron microscopy investigations to assess the structure and morphology of the surfaces. Biologic and morphologic responses to osteoblast cell lines of human were then examined by measuring cell proliferation, cell differentiation (alkaline phosphatase activity), and avb3 integrin. The cell proliferation rate, alkaline phosphatase activity, and cell adhesion in the MAO group increased in comparison to those in the machined and grit-blasted groups. Results. The cell proliferation rate, alkaline phosphatase activity, and cell adhesion in the DMT group increased in comparison to those in the machined and TPS groups. Cell proliferation, alkaline phosphatase activity, migration, and adhesion were increased in DMT group compared to the two other groups. Human Osteoblast cells on DMT-coated surface were strongly adhered, and proliferated well compared to those on the other surfaces. Discussion. The surface modifications of DMT coating enhanced the biocompatibility (proliferation and migration of osteoblastlike cells) of Co-Cr alloy. This process is not unique to Co-Cr alloy; it can be applied to many metals to improve their biocompatibility, thus allowing a broad range of materials to be used for cementless implants

Background: The rates of primary and revision knee arthroplasty in the United States have been increasing. Simultaneously, several studies have reported increased complication rates when these procedures are performed at low-volume centers. One innovation designed to improve knee arthroplasty outcomes is computer navigation, which aims to reduce revision rates by improving the alignment achieved at surgery. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of hospital volume on the costeffectiveness of this new technology in order to determine its feasibility and the level of evidence that should be sought prior to its adoption. Methods: A Markov decision model was used to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of computer-assisted knee arthroplasty, in relation to hospital volume. Transition probabilities were estimated from the arthroplasty literature, and costs were based on the average reimbursement for primary and revision knee arthroplasty at out institution. Outcomes were measured in quality adjusted life years. Results: The results demonstrate that computer-assisted surgery becomes less cost-effective as the annual hospital volume decreases, as the cost of navigation increases, and as the impact on revision rates decreases. If a center performs 250 cases per year, computer navigation will be cost-effective if the annual revision rate is reduced by 2% per year over a twenty-year period. If a center performs 150 cases per year, computer navigation is cost-effective if it results in a 2.5% reduction in the annual revision rate over a twenty-year period. If a center performs only 25 cases per year, the annual reduction in revision rates must be 13% for computer navigation to be cost-effective. Conclusion: This analysis demonstrates that computer navigation is not likely to be a cost-effective investment in health care improvement in low volume joint replacement centers, where its benefit is most likely to be realized. However, it may be a cost-effective technology for higher volume joint replacement centers, where the decrease in the rate of knee revision needed to make the investment cost-effective is modest, if improvements in revisions rates with the use of this technology can be realized. This illustrates that hospital volume can have a substantial impact on the cost-effectiveness of new technology in surgery, and this should be carefully considered by any center considering such a large capital investment

Football player's performance during competitive matches greatly depends on fitness and training. The use of GPS (Global Positioning System) has been revolutionary in the monitoring of player intensity during training. The aim of the study was to investigate the difference in training intensity between defenders, midfielders and forwards and if injury sustained was directly related to the intensity of training. GPS (Catapult Minimax GPS 10Hz) was used to collect training data for a professional British football club playing in the Championship, for the year August 2011/April 2012. Each player wore a GPS unit during each training session and the raw data was logged. The GPS calculates the player load which is a measure of intensity of training. It is a summation of instantaneous change of forward, sideway and upward accelerations. Adjustments are made for match days and injuries according to a defined set of rules. A total player load was obtained for each month and at the end of the season. The different injuries sustained throughout the year were logged for each player. This study shows that there is a difference between the intensity of training in different groups of players. The midfielders trained at the highest intensity and, in this group of professional football players, defenders sustained the most injuries GPS technology allows monitoring of player intensity during training. The data obtained will guide training and fitness coaches model training for the individual group of players. This will prepare players for official matches and eventually may help predict and prevent injuries

Background and purpose. The prevalence of back pain has remained relatively constant in the population in spite of previous interventions. Persons with sub-acute back pain are assumed to benefit from extended multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary or transdiciplinary and multisectorial, intersectorial or trans-sectorial interventions as an alternative to traditional mono-professional interventions. The purpose of this health technology assessment (HTA) was to document the possible effect of such interventions in patients suffering from back pain of 4-12 weeks duration. Methods and results. A systematic literature review is the overall basis for this HTA and the analysis of the interventions in relation to technology, patients, organization, and economics. HTA reports, systematic reviews, and recent primary studies were included. Further, primary data from Danish institutions (public and private) with experience in working with this technology were collected. There is moderate evidence that early multidiciplnary, interdisciplinary and transdiciplinary interventions are more effective than monodiciplinary interventions or no interventions in primary care. The effects are mainly seen in relation to reduced sick leave at or beyond 12-months follow-up and not in relation to reduced pain or improved function. The interventions appear to be cost-effective. Danish back centers mainly use sequential and/or parallel collaborative models. Conclusions. Extended multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary or transdiciplinary and multisectorial, intersectorial or trans-sectorial interventions delivered to patients with back pain of 4-12 weeks duration reduce sick-leave and appear to be cost-effective. The optimal content of such interventions cannot be determined but elements of cognitive behavioral therapy combined with graded exercise is used most frequently

Purpose Of The Study: To compare the Coblation technology Vs standard diathermy regarding surgical time & cost in arthroscopic subacromial decompression. Methods & Results: This prospective randomized comparative study between Coblation technology Vs standard monopolar diathermy in ASD. 40 patients with chronic impingement syndrome prospectively randomized 20 patients in each group. Procedure time & cost per case were accurately calculated. Results show that the Coblation group had an average 8 minutes shorter procedure time per case P value: 0.0001. The cost saving as a result was about £64 per case P value: 0.01. Conclusion: Use of Coblation technology for soft tissue debridement & resection in ASD reduces procedure time by 38% and the cost by an average of 18% per case (£64) compared with the use of a shaver and diathermy probe