Adult Spine Deformity (ASD) is a degenerative condition of the adult spine leading to altered spine curvatures and mechanical balance. Computational approaches, like Finite Element (FE) Models have been proposed to explore the etiology or the treatment of ASD, through biomechanical simulations. However, while the personalization of the models is a cornerstone, personalized FE models are cumbersome to generate. To cover this need, we share a virtual cohort of 16807 thoracolumbar spine FE models with different spine morphologies, presented in an online user-interface platform (SpineView). To generate these models, EOS images are used, and 3D surface spine models are reconstructed. Then, a Statistical Shape Model (SSM), is built, to further adapt a FE structured mesh template for both the bone and the soft tissues of the spine, through mesh morphing. Eventually, the SSM deformation fields allow the personalization of the mean structured FE model, leading to generate FE meshes of thoracolumbar spines with different morphologies. Models can be selectively viewed and downloaded through SpineView, according to personalized user requests of specific morphologies characterized by the geometrical parameters: Pelvic Incidence; Pelvic Tilt; Sacral Slope; Lumbar Lordosis; Global Tilt; Cobb Angle; and GAP score. Data quality is assessed using visual aids, correlation analyses, heatmaps, network graphs, Anova and t-tests, and kernel density plots to compare spinopelvic parameter distributions and identify similarities and differences. Mesh quality and ranges of motion have been assessed to evaluate the quality of the FE models. This functional repository is unique to generate virtual patient cohorts in ASD. Acknowledgements: European Commission (MSCA-TN-ETN-2020-Disc4All-955735, ERC-2021-CoG-O-Health-101044828)

Occlusal loading and muscle forces during mastication aids in assessment of dental restorations and implants and jaw implant design; however, three-dimensional bite forces cannot be measured with conventional transducers, which obstruct the native occlusion. The aim of this study was to combine accurate jaw kinematics measurements, together with subject-specific computational modelling, to estimate subject-specific occlusal loading and muscle forces during mastication. Motion experiments were performed on one male participant (age: 39yrs, weight: 82kg) with healthy dentition. Two low-profile magnetic sensors were fixed to the participant's teeth and the two dental arches digitised using an intra-oral scanner. The participant performed ten continuous of chewing on a polyurethane rubber sample of known material properties, followed by maximal compression (clenching). This was repeated at the molars, premolars of both the left and right sides, and central incisors. Jaw motion was simultaneously recorded from the sensors, and finite element modelling used to estimate bite force. Specifically, simulations of chewing and biting were performed by driving the model using the measured kinematics, and bite force magnitude and direction quantified. Muscle forces were then evaluated using a rigid-body musculoskeletal model of the patient's jaw. The first molars generated the largest bite forces during chewing (left: 309 N, right: 311 N) and maximum-force biting (left: 496 N, right: 495 N). The incisors generated the smallest bite forces during chewing (75 N) and maximum-force biting (114 N). The anterior temporalis and superficial masseter muscles had the largest contribution to maximum bite force, followed by the posterior temporalis and medial pterygoid muscles. This study presents a new method for estimating dynamic occlusal loading and muscle forces during mastication. These techniques provide new knowledge of jaw biomechanics, including muscle and occlusal loading, which will be useful in surgical planning and jaw implant design

While the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for more accessible anatomy instruction tools, it is also well known that the time allocated to practical anatomy teaching has reduced in the past decades. Notably, the opportunity for anatomy students to learn osteology is not prioritised, nor is the ability of students to appreciate osteological variation. As a potential method of increasing accessibility to bone models, this study describes the process of developing 3D-printed replicas of human bones using a combination of structured light scanning (SLS) technology and 3D printing. Human bones were obtained from the Anatomy Lab at the University of Edinburgh and were digitised using SLS via an Einscan H scanner. The resulting data was then used to print multiple replicas of varying materials, colours, scales and resolutions on an Ultimaker S3 3D printer. To gather opinion on these models and their variables, surveys were completed by anatomy students and educators (n=57). Data was collected using a Likert scale response, as well as free-text answers to gather qualitative information. 3D scans of the scapula, atlas (C1 vertebrae) and femur were successfully obtained. Plastic replicas were produced with defined variables in 4 separate stations e.g. different colours, to obtain results from survey respondents. For colour, 87.7% of survey respondents preferred white models, with 7% preferring orange and 5.3% preferring blue. For material, 47.4% of respondents preferred PLA (Polylactic acid), while 33.3% preferred ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), 12.3% preferred Pet-G (Polyethylene terephthalate glycol), 3.5% preferred Glassbend and 3.5% had no preference. Additional results based on scale and resolution were also collected. This initial study has demonstrated a proof-of-concept workflow for SLS technology to be combined with 3D printing to produce plastic replicas of human bones. Our study has provided key information about the colour, scale, material and resolution required for these models. Our future work will focus on determining accuracy of the models and their use as teaching aids for osteology education

Abstract. Background. Benign osteolytic lesions of bone represent a diverse group of pathological and clinical entities. The aim of this study is to highlight the importance of intraoperative endoscopic assessment of intramedullary osteolytic lesions in view of the rate of complications during the postoperative follow up period. Methods. 69 patients (median age 27 years) with benign osteolytic lesion had been prospectively followed up from December 2017 to December 2018 in a university hospital in Cairo, Egypt and in a level-1 trauma center in United Kingdom. All patients had been treated by curettage with the aid of endoscopy through a standard incision and 2 portals. Histological analysis was confirmed from intraoperative samples analysis. All patients had received bone allografts from different donor sites (iliac crest, fibula, olecranon, etc). None of them received chemo or radiotherapy. Results. Most of lesions were enchondroma (n=29), followed by Aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) (n=16), Fibrodysplasia (n=13), Chondromyxoid fibroma (n=3), simple bone cyst (n= 3), non-ossifying fibroma (n= 3), giant cell tumour (n= 1) and chondromyxoid fibroma (n = 1). Site of lesion varied from metacarpals (n = 29), femur (n= 1), lower leg (n= 31), and upper limb (n=18). Complications happened only in 9 cases (pathological fractures (n=2), infection (n= 1), recurrence (n=3, all aneurysmal bone cyst), residual pain (n= 3, all in tibia). None of cases developed malignant transformation. Conclusion. Endoscopy is recommended in management of benign osteolytic bone lesions; as it aids in better visualization of the hidden lesions that are missed even after doing apparently satisfactory blind curettage. From our study the recurrence rate is 2% compared to the known 12–18% recurrence rate in the blind technique from literature

Lisfranc injuries are uncommon and can be challenging to manage. There is considerable variation in opinion regarding the mode of operative treatment of these injuries, with some studies preferring primary arthrodesis over traditional open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). We aim to assess the clinical and radiological outcomes of the patients treated with ORIF in our unit. This is a retrospective study, in which all 27 consecutive patients treated with ORIF between June 2013 and October 2018 by one surgeon were included with an average follow-up of 2.4 years. All patients underwent ORIF with joint-sparing surgery by a dorsal bridging plate (DBP) for the second and third tarsometatarsal (TMT) joint, and the first TMT joint was fixed with trans-articular screws. Patients had clinical examination and radiological assessment, and completed American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) midfoot score and Foot Function Index (FFI) questionnaires. Our early results of 22 patients (5 lost to follow-up) showed that 16 (72%) patients were pain free, walking normally without aids, and wearing normal shoes and 68% were able to run or play sports. The mean AOFAS midfoot score was 78.1 (63–100) and the average FFI was 19.5 (0.6–34). Radiological assessment confirmed that only three patients had progression to posttraumatic arthritis at the TMT joints though only one of these was clinically symptomatic. Good clinical and radiological outcomes can be achieved by ORIF in Lisfranc injuries with joint-sparing surgery using DBP

Abstract. Objectives. This study aids the control of remodelling and strain response in bone; providing a quantified map of apparent modulus and strength in the proximal tibia in 3 anatomically relevant directions in terms of apparent density and factor groups. Methods. 7 fresh-frozen cadaveric specimens were quantified computed tomography (qCT) scanned, segmented and packed with 3 layers of 9mm side length cubic cores aligned to anatomical mechanical axes. Cores were removed with printed custom cutting and their densities found from qCT. Cores (n = 195) were quasi-statically compression tested. Modulus was estimated from a load cycle hysteresis loop, between 40% and 20% of yield stress. Sequential testing order in 3 orthogonal directions was randomised. Group differences were identified via an analysis of variance for the factors density, age, gender, testing order, subchondral depth, condyle and sub-meniscal location. Regression models were fit for significant factor sub-groups, predicting properties from density. Results. Axial modulus was 1.5 times greater than the two transverse directions (p<0.001), between which no difference was found. For all test directions, differences were quantified for density and modulus across all subchondral depths (p<0.001). 60% of transverse modulus variation was explained by density within subgroups for each subchondral depth. Medial axial modulus was 1.3 times greater than the lateral side (p = 0.011). Lateral axial modulus halved over a 25mm depth whilst remaining constant for the medial side. Density explained 75% of variation when grouped by subchondral depth and condyle. Yield strength was well predicted across all test directions, with density explaining 81% of axial strength variation and no differences over subchondral depth. Conclusions. The quantification of bone multiaxial modulus based on condyle and subchondral depth has been shown for the first time in a clinically viable protocol using conventional CT. Accounting for spatial variation improves upon literature property prediction models. Declaration of Interest. (b) declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research reported:I declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research project

Prosthetic joint infection (PJI) is an uncommon but serious complication of hip replacement. Over 1,000 operations are performed annually in the United Kingdom for PJI following hip replacement, using either one- or two-stage revision arthroplasty. It is unclear which is preferred by patients and which has the best long-term outcome. This qualitative study aims to describe patient experiences of treatment and recovery following one- and two-stage revision arthroplasty for PJI within the context of a pragmatic randomised controlled trial comparing these two approaches. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 32 patients undergoing one- or two-stage revision treatment for PJI as part of a UK multi-centre randomised controlled trial. Patients were recruited from 12 participating National Health Service (NHS) Orthopaedic Departments and were interviewed 2–4 months after their first revision surgery and again approximately 18 months later. Final sample size was justified on the basis of thematic saturation. All patients consented to the interview being audio-recorded, transcribed, anonymised and analysed using an inductive thematic approach. Ethical approval was provided by NRES Committee South-West Frenchay, 14/SW/116. Patients in both the one- and two-stage treatment groups described prolonged hospital stays, with burdensome antibiotics and brief physiotherapy treatment. However, following discharge home and during recovery, participants undergoing two-stage revision with an ‘empty hip' or with a spacer reported being physically restricted in almost every aspect of their daily life, resulting in inactivity and confinement to home. Mobility aids were not sufficiently available through the health service for these patients. A key difference is that those with a spacer reported more pain than those without. Approximately one year following their second-stage revision, participants described being more independent and active, but two directly attributed muscle weakness to the lengthy period without a hip and described resulting falls or dislocations that had complicated their recovery. In contrast, those undergoing one-stage revision and CUMARS appeared to be more alike, reporting better mobility, functionality and independence, although still limited. Participants in these groups also reported minimal or no pain following their revision. A key difference between CUMARS and one-stage revision was the uncertainty of whether a second operation was necessary, which participants described as “hanging over them”, while those in the two-stage empty hip or spacer group described a more positive anticipation of a second definitive operation as it marked an end to what was described as a detachment from life. Our findings highlight the differences between patient experiences of recovery following revision arthroplasty, and how this is influenced by the surgical approach and presence or lack of spacers. An understanding of lived experiences following one- and two-stage surgical interventions will complement knowledge about the clinical effectiveness of these different types of revision surgery

The medical model of history, examination and investigation forms the bedrock of diagnosis and management of all patients. The essence is the recognition of patterns of symptoms and signs. In the modern era there are an increasing number of non-medical resources ranging from web-based information, computer diagnostic aids and non-specialist healthcare professionals to provide a diagnosis and commence management of a wide range of conditions, including knee problems. We analysed the quality and patterns of clinical presentation in order to answer the question how closely clinical symptoms and examination findings correlate to diagnosis based on MRI scan and/or arthroscopic findings. The analysis was a dataset of a consecutive series of patients, aged 18 to 45, with no past history of knee problems or end stage arthritis, presenting to a single specialist triage physiotherapist, working within an integrated knee service, who fully completed a standardised knee assessment proforma of presenting symptoms and signs at a large district general hospital. The study comprises 86 patients and 98 knees. We analysed this data based on diagnostic findings of MRI scan or arthroscopy to provide definitive intra-articular diagnosis. Based on standard textbook descriptions of common presentations, we went on to define the patients' presentation history and examination as typical or atypical, with typical meaning the symptoms and signs correlated with the diagnosis. The null hypothesis is that patients have a high chance of typical presentations for common knee conditions. In the 75% of patients with a significant intra-articular pathology we found the majority had chondral rather than meniscal tears 1.7 to 1. Forty four percent of patients had atypical symptoms and 71% had atypical clinical signs, 30% and only 26% of the cohort had both typical symptoms and signs together, reflecting a surprisingly low positive predictive probability of symptoms and signs in this group of patients, particularly those with chondral lesions which was 44%. In this cohort, 57% of the cohort has 3 or more multiple diagnoses. In the diagnostically normal group, 43% had symptoms and signs typical for a meniscal tear. We conclude that clinical symptoms and signs surprisingly inaccurate in guiding intra-articular pathology within the knee, even in a sub-set considered the easy and accurate to assess. The number of multiple diagnoses and the incidence of false positive results also means that simplistic interpretations of non-definitive diagnoses and linear causation of pain pathways should be treated cautiously

Background. Bone is a hierarchically structured hard tissue that consists of approximately 70 wt% low-crystallinity hydroxyapatite. Intricate tubular channels, such as Haversian canals, Volkman's canals, and canaliculi are a preserved feature of bone microstructure. These structures provide pathways for vasculature and facilitate cell-to-cell communication processes, together supporting viability of cellular components and aiding in remodeling processes. Unfortunately, many commercial bone augmentation materials consist of highly crystalline phases that are absent of the structuring present within the native tissue they are replacing. This work reports on a the development of a novel bone augmentation material that is able to generate biologically analogous tubular calcium phosphate mineral structures from hydrogel-based spheres that can be packed into defects similar to those encountered in vivo. Experimental. Calcium loaded spheres were made by adding 5 wt% agar powder to 1 M calcium nitrate solutions, before heating the mixture to 80–90 oC and feeding droplets of gel into a reservoir of liquid nitrogen. Deposition of tubular mineral was initiated by exposure to ammonium phosphate solutions at concentrations between 500 mM and 1 M, and was characterized by micro-XRF mapping, XRD and SEM techniques. For an ex vivo model, human bone tissue was collected from patients undergoing elective knee replacement surgery. The United Kingdom National Research Ethics Service (East of Scotland Research Ethics Service) provided ethical approval (11/ES/1044). The augmented defect of the model was characterised by micro-XRF mapping and micro-CT techniques. Results and Discussion. Immersion of calcium-loaded hydrogel spheres in physiological solutions rich in phosphate promotes the release of calcium rich streams from the sphere surface, resulting in the precipitation of tubule structures. Micro-XRF mapping, XRD and SEM, revealed tubules possessed hierarchically structuring and consisted of low-crystallinity hydroxyapatite, making them analogous in composition and structure to incritate features of bone microstructure. When brought into close proximity with one another, spheres become fused in a matter of minutes by the entanglement and subsequent interstitial mineralisation of the mineral tubules. Micro-XRF mapping and micro-CT analysis of an augmented ex vivo human tissue defect model demonstrated the extensive deposition of low-crystallinity tubular mineral throughout a tissue defect. Conclusions. This is possibly the first example of a bone augmentation material that is able to generate biologically analogous structures in situ, and therefore may serve as a better scaffold for bone formation over synthetic alternatives. Moreover, the formation of structured mineral aids in achieving rapid hardening of the augmenting calcium-loaded hydrogel shperes within the defect space

Background. To aid recovery, rehabilitation is an important adjunct to surgery. Acknowledging the MRC framework for complex interventions we assessed the evidence-base for components of comprehensive rehabilitation in total hip (THR) and total knee replacement (TKR) pathways. Methods. We conducted systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomised controlled trials (RCT) of pre-surgical exercise and education, occupational therapy and post-operative physiotherapy. In feasibility RCTs we explored acceptability of pain self-management and occupational therapy before THR, and physiotherapy after TKR. We searched trial registers for ongoing RCTs. Results. Pre-surgical interventions. Systematic review identified 38 interventions targeting physical function before THR and TKR. Interventions showed functional benefit compared with controls, standardised mean difference (SMD) 0.32 (95% CI 0.20, 0.44; p<0.00001). In 27 studies targeting in-hospital recovery, intervention patients had lower anxiety, SMD 0.38 (95% CI 0.13, 0.63; p=0.003), and earlier mobilisation by 4 hours (95% CI 0.04, 0.30; p=0.009). In 20 studies, interventions targeting long-term recovery showed no benefit for function or pain. We randomised 88 patients into a feasibility RCT of group-based pain self-management. Attendees were highly satisfied but participation was low. Pre-operatively, many patients may perceive that only surgery can treat their symptoms. Occupational therapy. Systematic review identified 7 small RCTs in THR. Function improved in patients receiving occupational therapy, SMD 0.40 (95%CI 0.09, 0.70; p=0.01) but this was not sustained post-surgery. In our feasibility study with 44 patients randomised to pre-operative provision of aids and appliances or usual care, the intervention was delivered successfully and acceptable to participants. We identified no ongoing studies. Post-discharge physiotherapy. Systematic review identified 7 small studies suggesting that physiotherapy after TKR gives functional benefit at 3–4 months, SMD 0.37 (95%CI 0.12, 0.62; p=0.004) but not at later follow up. As noted in a recent review in THR, quality of evidence was limited. Our feasibility study evaluated six weeks of group-based activity-orientated rehabilitation in 46 TKR patients. The programme was well-received and attendance good. A fully-powered RCT is underway. We identified two ongoing studies targeting patients at risk of, or with, poor recovery. Conclusion. The evidence-base for comprehensive rehabilitation in THR and TKR is growing. Pre-surgical interventions may be effective but, in isolation, not acceptable to many patients. Ongoing definitive trials in TKR physiotherapy will guide future care. Well-designed trials of physiotherapy after THR and occupational therapy are needed. Ultimately, rehabilitation interventions throughout THR and TKR pathways may provide optimal care but this will need appropriate evaluation

Aims. 1. To develop a decision aid - Decision Support Package (DSP) - that will provide low back pain (LBP) patients, and their treating physiotherapists with information on the treatment options available to the patients. 2. To develop a training package for physiotherapists on how to use the DSP. 3. To encourage and evaluate the informed shared decision making (ISDM) process between patients and physiotherapists during consultation. Method. We developed a DSP informed by existing research and collaboration with physiotherapists, patients and experts in the field of decision aids and LBP. We did six pieces of exploratory work: literature review; 2009 NICE LBP guidelines review; qualitative screening of transcripts of interviews of LBP patients; focus groups (patients); nominal group (physiotherapists), and Delphi study (experts). We collated these data to develop the DSP. We also developed a training package for physiotherapists. Results. We developed a LBP patient resource for use prior to their first consultation and a training package for physiotherapists. The DSP contained information on acupuncture, structured group exercise, manual therapy and cognitive behavioural approach. LBP patients would expect these treatment options to be offered to them at their initial consultation. The training package for physiotherapists was on DSP use and communication skills during consultation. Conclusion. We have developed an evidence and theory informed Decision Support Package and physiotherapists training. We are currently piloting its use in one NHS Trust prior to running a pilot RCT (N=150) to test is effect on improving patient satisfaction with LBP patients' treatment choices. Conflicts of Interest. None. Source of Funding. National Institute for Health Research- Research for Patient Benefit (NIHR-RfPB). This abstract has not been previously published in whole or substantial part nor has it been presented previously at a national meeting

Exeter Trauma Stem (ETS) is one of the most common implants used for treating displaced intracapsular hip fractures in the UK. We previously performed a radiographic audit of these implants which showed good placement was difficult. This was in particular relation to leg length discrepancy (LLD). This study reviewed the clinical outcomes of these patients, in particular looking at the relation of leg length discrepancy to outcome. We performed a clinical review of patients at 3 months and 1 year post ETS for hip fracture. Oxford hip score (OHS), Trendelenberg test, Visual Analogue Score (VAS) and walking aids required were recorded. Leg length discrepancy was determined radiographically on initial post op X-ray. This was recorded as Even (+/− 5mm), 6-10mm Long and >10mm long. Seventy-two patients were reviewed at 3 months and 21 at 1 year. Mean VAS was 1.6. At 3 months 66% were Trendelenberg positive. Of those Trendelenberg positive at 3 months only 42% remained positive at 1 year. Mean OHS at 3months and 1 year was 30.8 and 32.1 respectively. On radiographic review 38 implants were Even, 24 were 6-10mm Long and 10 implants were >10mm Long. There was no correlation between leg length discrepancy and either VAS or Trendelenberg test. 45 patients ambulated independently pre-op. Of these only 8 ambulated independently post-op, 18 used a stick and 11 a Zimmer frame. There was no correlation between post operative leg length discrepancy and either Visual Analogue Score, OHS or Trendelenberg test. Mean pain score was very low. There was however almost 10% of patients with a VAS greater than 6. 80% of patients dropped one ambulatory level post-op, this is consistent with previous studies. The ETS provides good pain relief with a low complication rate in the vast majority of patients

Systemic inflammatory conditions frequently affect both the small joints of the hand and the eye. Uveitis and scleritis is common in this group and patients are required to apply regular eye drops. Ophthalmic conditions are also common in patients with Osteoarthritis of the thumb CMCJ who have weakness and pain on pinch grip. Poor compliance with therapy due to difficulties in administering eye drops can cause permanent ocular and visual morbidity. A laboratory based biomechanical study was performed to replicate the pinch forces applied to the 20 most frequently used eye drops. The minimum force required to disperse a drop from a full bottle held in the inverted vertical position was assessed on three occasions by placing the eye drop bottles between a finger and thumb simulator attached to a load cell. Recordings of two bottle types were repeated using 2 different ergonomic ‘aids’ produced by the pharmaceutical companies. The data was compared to published data for pinch strength of general ophthalmology patients and to collected data for patients with thumb base CMCJ osteoarthritis. Compressive forces varied significantly between different eye drop types from 6.4 newtons (Systane) to 20.8 newtons (Minims). The highest values were found in minims which is the most frequently used eye drop. The use of the Xalatan aid appeared to increase the force required from 7.7(+/−0.64) to 12.9 (+/−3.93) but this difference did not reach significance, p=0.08, the results for Allegan aid showed no significant difference 11.3(+/−0.91) to 9.9 (+/−1.18)p=0.17. The forces required to disperse a drop increased as the bottles became less full. Forces required to disperse eye drops from bottles varies considerably and can be greater than the maximum pinch pressure of some patient groups which may be a cause of poor compliance. Some ergonomic aids designed to help with the application of drops do not appear to reduce the forces required

Infection of human cartilage with HIV in vivo has not previously been reported. Specimens of articular cartilage taken at postmortem from ten patients who were HIV-positive were examined. Two had AIDS and eight were believed to have stage-2 disease. The standard polymerase chain reaction (PCR) protocol was modified to allow semiquantitative analysis of the samples. Oligonucleotide primers labelled with . 32. P gamma-ATP were used to detect a segment of HIV DNA and a control DNA gene segment (HLA genome) to estimate the ratio of infected cells. The . 32. P-labelled PCR products were separated on acrylamide gels and visualised directly by autoradiography and computer densitometry. Infection of human cartilage in vivo was demonstrated in nine of the ten samples in which the PCR analysis was positive. The other did not react sufficiently to produce detectable radiolabelled PCR product despite repeated DNA digestion and extraction. Cartilage infected with HIV could be a potential source of HIV when used in operations

Despite widespread use of radiofrequency (RF) shrinkage, there have been no animal studies on the effects of post-operative immobilisation on the histological properties of the shrunken tissue. We have therefore examined the role of post-operative immobilisation after RF shrinkage with special emphasis on the histological properties of collagenous tissue. One patellar tendon of 66 New Zealand White rabbits was shrunk. Six rabbits were killed immediately after the operation. Twenty rabbits were not immobilised, 20 were immobilised for three weeks and 20 for six weeks. Fibroblasts, collagen and vascular quality and density were evaluated on sections, stained by haematoxylin and eosin. Nine weeks after operation the histological properties were inferior to those of the contralateral control tendons. Shrunk tendons did not return to normal at any time after operation irrespective of whether the animals had been immobilised or not. All the parameters improved significantly between zero and three weeks after operation. Immobilised tendons tended to have a better and faster recovery. Careful rehabilitation is imperative after RF shrinkage. Immobilisation aids recovery of the histological properties. Our findings in this animal model support a period of immobilisation of more than three weeks

Summary. Movement analysis (IMA) and activity monitoring (AM) using a body-fixed inertia-sensor can discriminate patients with ankle injuries from controls and between patients of different pathology or post-injury time. Weak correlations with PROMs show its added value in objectifying outcome assessment. Introduction. Ankle injuries often result in residual complaints calling for objective methods to score outcome alongside subjective patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Inertial motion analysis (IMA) and activity monitoring (AM) using a body-fixed sensor have shown clinical validity in patients suffering knee, hip and spine complaints. This study investigates the feasibility of IMA and AM 1) to differentiate patients suffering ankle injuries from healthy controls, 2) to compare different ankle injuries, 3) to monitor ankle patients during recovery. Methods. 32 patients suffering ankle problems (ankle sprain, n=17, 42 ±26yrs; operatively managed ankle fracture, n=15, 44 ±17yrs) during short-term recovery (6weeks to 3months post-trauma) were compared to 22 matched healthy controls (41 ±13yrs). Function was measured using IMA: Gait, Sit-Stand (STS) and 10s one-leg Balance test (OLB) were performed while wearing a 3D inertia-sensor at the lower back. Physical activity was measured during 4 successive days using a 3D accelerometer (AM), attached at the upper leg. Validated algorithms were used to derive motion parameters (e.g. speed for gait, bending angle for STS, sway area for OLB, # steps for AM). Moreover three ankle specific questionnaires were completed: Manchester-Oxford Foot and Ankle Questionnaire (MOXFQ), Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score. Data was analysed using paired t-tests, one-way ANOVA and Pearson's r. Results. Both patient groups performed worse in function (IMA), activity (AM) and scales (PROM). Even at 3 months mean walking speed (−26%) and cadence (−9%) were slower while pelvic obliquity during ST (+18%) and sway during OLB (+230%) was higher than in controls (p<0.05). Activity was less regarding step/day (−31%) and sit-stand transfers (−11%, p<0.05). Also PROMs were significantly worse in patients (range 17–37%). Comparing in-between patients, significant differences were found in PROMs and function (IMA) with fracture patients walking slower (−30%) or showing more sway during one-legged balance (+250%). Mean activity scores (steps, bouts, cadence) were also less for fractures (p>0.05). During recovery, PROMs improved significantly, while function (IMA) and activity (AM) only showed small or selective improvements (e.g. 8° reduction in bending angle during ST, 20% increase in cadence). Only weak to moderate correlations were found between PROM, IMA (r-range: 0.32–0.79) and AM parameters (r-range: 0.31–0.71). Discussion & Conclusion. Function, physical activity and PROMs were impaired in patients with ankle injuries compared to healthy subjects, with the fracture group performing worse on IMA and PROMs than the sprain group. In this first study ever to measure activity in ankle patients, it was shown that e.g. fracture patients walk ca. half as many steps and bouts as age-matched controls even though at 6weeks they were unable to walk 20m without walking aids (floor effect of IMA function test). The lack of improvements in IMA and AM during recovery while PROMs improved significantly, together with the few and only weak-to-moderate correlations between PROMs, IMA and AM shows that subjective and objective recovery differ and highlight the added value of IMA and AM for objectifying routine clinical outcome assessment

Objectives

We have increased the dose of tranexamic acid (TXA) in our enhanced total joint recovery protocol at our institution from 15 mg/kg to 30 mg/kg (maximum 2.5 g) as a single, intravenous (IV) dose. We report the clinical effect of this dosage change.

Objectives

Acetabular retractors have been implicated in damage to the femoral and obturator nerves during total hip replacement. The aim of this study was to determine the anatomical relationship between retractor placement and these nerves.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is an important cause of pain, disability and economic loss in humans, and is similarly important in the horse. Recent knowledge on post-traumatic OA has suggested opportunities for early intervention, but it is difficult to identify the appropriate time of these interventions. The horse provides two useful mechanisms to answer these questions: 1) extensive experience with clinical OA in horses; and 2) use of a consistently predictable model of OA that can help study early pathobiological events, define targets for therapeutic intervention and then test these putative therapies. This paper summarises the syndromes of clinical OA in horses including pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment, and details controlled studies of various treatment options using an equine model of clinical OA.