This single-centre prospective randomised trial aimed to assess the superiority of operative fixation compared with non-operative management for adults with an isolated, closed humeral shaft fracture. 70 patients were randomly allocated to either open reduction and internal fixation (51%, n=36/70) or functional bracing (49%, n=34/70). 7 patients did not receive their assigned treatment (operative n=5/32, non-operative n=2/32); results were analysed based upon intention-to-treat. The primary outcome measure was the DASH score at 3 months. Secondary outcomes included treatment complications, union/nonunion, shoulder/elbow range of motion, pain and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). At 3 months, 66 patients (94%) were available for follow-up; the mean DASH favoured surgery (operative 24.5, non-operative 39.4; p=0.006) and the difference (14.9 points) exceeded the MCID. Surgery was also associated with a superior DASH at 6wks (operative 38.4, non-operative 53.1; p=0.005) but not at 6 months or 1yr. Brace-related dermatitis affected 7 patients (operative 3%, non-operative 18%; OR 7.8, p=0.049) but there were no differences in other complications. 8 patients (11%) developed a nonunion (operative 6%, non-operative 18%; OR 3.8, p=0.140). Surgery was associated with superior early shoulder/elbow range of motion, and pain, EuroQol and SF-12 Mental Component Summary scores. There were no other differences in outcomes between groups. Surgery confers early advantages over bracing, in terms of upper limb function, shoulder/elbow range of motion, pain and HRQoL. However, these benefits should be considered in the context of potential operative risks and the absence of any difference in patient-reported outcomes at 1yr

In recent years, use of anatomic stemless total shoulder arthroplasty (AsTSA) has increased. Despite evidence to suggest good mid-term results at 2-year follow-up there is a paucity of evidence for longer term follow-up. This study aimed to investigate outcomes at a minimum of 5 years post-operatively following primary AsTSA. This study is a retrospective case series of all patients who underwent a Mathys Affinis AsTSA from July 2010 (first case) to August 2018 (to allow minimum 5-year follow-up). Clinical outcomes included revision rate, range of motion and patient reported outcomes (Oxford Shoulder Score and Numerical Satisfaction Score). Radiological outcome was assessment of radiolucent lines for Lazarus grading. A total of 105 stemless TSAs were implanted. Five patients underwent revision (4.8%). Seventy-five AsTSA's were included in the final study for analysis of 5-year outcomes. Median follow-up time was 6.1 years. Median age was 69 years old and 81% were female. Oxford shoulder score showed a range of 18 to 48, with a median score of 47. Satisfied or very Satisfied was selected in 94.37%. Median range of motion assessments showed forward elevation 160°, abduction 150°, external rotation 40°, and mode internal rotation was to the lumbar spine. No glenoid lucency was present in 79.7%. There were 9.5% with Lazarus Grade 1 lucency, 5.4% with Lazarus Grade 2, and 5.4% Lazarus Grade 3. No humeral lucency was observed. This cohort study demonstrates promising clinical and radiological outcomes for the Mathys Affinis Stemless TSA at minimum 5 years post-operatively

Aims. There has been an increasing use of early operative fixation for scaphoid fractures, despite uncertain evidence. We conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate up-to-date evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs), comparing the effectiveness of the operative and nonoperative treatment of undisplaced and minimally displaced (≤ 2 mm displacement) scaphoid fractures. Methods. A systematic review of seven databases was performed from the dates of their inception until the end of March 2021 to identify eligible RCTs. Reference lists of the included studies were screened. No language restrictions were applied. The primary outcome was the patient-reported outcome measure of wrist function at 12 months after injury. A meta-analysis was performed for function, pain, range of motion, grip strength, and union. Complications were reported narratively. Results. Seven RCTs were included. There was no significant difference in function between the groups at 12 months (Hedges’ g 0.15 (95% confidence interval -0.02 to 0.32); p = 0.082). The complication rate was higher in the operative group and involved more serious complications. Conclusion. We found no difference in functional outcome at 12 months for fractures of the waist of the scaphoid with ≤ 2 mm displacement treated operatively or nonoperatively. The complication rate was higher with operative treatment. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(8):953–962

Aims. To compare operative and nonoperative treatment for displaced distal radius fractures in patients aged over 65 years. Methods. A total of 100 patients were randomized in this non-inferiority trial, comparing cast immobilization with operation with a volar locking plate. Patients with displaced AO/OTA A and C fractures were eligible if one of the following were found after initial closed reduction: 1) dorsal angulation > 10°; 2) ulnar variance > 3 mm; or 3) intra-articular step-off > 2 mm. Primary outcome measure was the abbreviated version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (QuickDASH) after 12 months. Secondary outcome measures were the Patient-Rated Wrist and Hand Evaluation (PRWHE), EuroQol-5 dimensions 5-level questionnaire (EQ-5D-5L), range of motion (ROM), grip strength, “satisfaction with wrist function” (score 0 to 10), and complications. Results. In all, 89 women and 11 men were included. Mean age was 74 years (65 to 91). Nonoperative treatment was non-inferior to operation with a five-point difference in median QuickDASH after 12 months (p = 0.206). After three and six months QuickDASH favoured the operative group (p = 0.010 and 0.030). Median values for PRWHE were 19 (interquartile range (IRQ) 10 to 32) in the operative group versus ten (IQR 1 to 31) in the nonoperative group at three months (p = 0.064), nine (IQR 2 to 20) versus five (IQR 0 to 13) (p = 0.020) at six months, and two (IQR 0 to 12) versus zero (IQR 0 to 8) (p = 0.019) after 12 months. Range of motion was similar between the groups. The EQ-5D-5L index score was better (mean difference 0.07) in the operative group at three and 12 months (p = 0.008 and 0.020). The complication rate was similar (p = 0.220). The operated patients were more satisfied with wrist function (median 8 (IQR 6 to 9) vs 6 (IQR 5 to 7) at three months, p = 0.002; 9 (IQR 7 to 9) vs 8 (IQR 6 to 8) at six months, p = 0.002; and 10 (IQR 8 to 10) vs 8 (IQR 7 to 9) at 12 months, p < 0.001). Conclusion. Nonoperative treatment was non-inferior to operative treatment based on QuickDASH after one year. Patients in the operative group had a faster recovery and were more satisfied with wrist function. Results from previous trials comparing operative and nonoperative treatment for displaced distal radius fractures in the elderly vary between favouring the operative group and showing similar results between the treatments. This randomized trial suggests that most elderly patients may be treated nonoperatively. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(2):247–255

Aims. Open reduction and plate fixation (ORPF) for displaced proximal humerus fractures can achieve reliably good long-term outcomes. However, a minority of patients have persistent pain and stiffness after surgery and may benefit from open arthrolysis, subacromial decompression, and removal of metalwork (ADROM). The long-term results of ADROM remain unknown; we aimed to assess outcomes of patients undergoing this procedure for stiffness following ORPF, and assess predictors of poor outcome. Methods. Between 1998 and 2018, 424 consecutive patients were treated with primary ORPF for proximal humerus fracture. ADROM was offered to symptomatic patients with a healed fracture at six months postoperatively. Patients were followed up retrospectively with demographic data, fracture characteristics, and complications recorded. Active range of motion (aROM), Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS), and EuroQol five-dimension three-level questionnaire (EQ-5D-3L) were recorded preoperatively and postoperatively. Results. A total of 138 patients underwent ADROM; 111 patients were available for long-term follow-up at a mean of 10.9 years (range 1 to 20). Mean age was 50.8 years (18 to 75);79 (57.2%) were female. Mean time from primary ORPF to ADROM was 11.9 months (6 to 19). Five patients developed superficial wound infection; ten developed symptomatic osteonecrosis/post-traumatic arthrosis (ON/PTA); four underwent revision arthrolysis. Median OSS improved from 17 (interquartile range (IQR) 12.0 to 22.0) preoperatively to 40.0 (IQR 31.5 to 48.0) postoperatively, and 39.0 (IQR 31.5 to 46.5) at long-term follow-up (p < 0.001). Median EQ-5D-3L improved from 0.079 (IQR -0.057 to 0.215) to 0.691 (IQR 0.441 to 0.941) postoperatively, and 0.701 (IQR 0.570 to 0.832) at long-term follow-up (p < 0.001). We found that aROM improved in all planes (p < 0.001). Among the variables assessed on multivariable analysis, a manual occupation, worsening Charlson Comorbidity Index and increasing socioeconomic deprivation were most consistently predictive of worse patient-reported outcome scores. Patients who subsequently developed ON/PTA reported significantly worse one-year and late OSS. Conclusion. ADROM in patients with persistent symptomatic stiffness following ORPF can achieve excellent short- and long-term outcomes. More deprived patients, those in a manual occupation, and those with worsening comorbidities have worse outcomes following ADROM. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(1):157–167

Introduction. Over the past 30 years multiple wars and embargos have reduced healthcare resources, infrastructure, and staff in Iraq. Subsequently, there are a lack of physiotherapists to provide rehabilitation after an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The implementation of home-based rehabilitation programmes may provide a potential solution to this problem. This study, set in in the Kurdistan region of Iraq, describes the epidemiology and outcomes of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) followed by home-based rehabilitation alone. Methods. A cohort observational study of patients aged ≥ 16 years with an ACL rupture who underwent an ACLR under a single surgeon. This was performed arthroscopically using a hamstring autograft (2 portal technique). Patients completed a home-based rehabilitation programme of appropriate simplicity for the home setting. The programme consisted of stretching, range of motion and strengthening exercises based on criterion rehabilitation progressions. A full description of the programme is provided at: . https://ngmvcharity.co.uk/. . Demographics, mechanisms of injury, operative findings, and outcome data (Lysholm, Tegner Activity Scale (TAS), and revision rates) were collected from 2016 to 2021. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Results. The cohort consisted of 545 patients (547 knees), 99.6% were male with a mean age of 27.8 years (SD 6.18 years). The mean time from diagnosis to surgery was 40.6 months (SD 40.3). Despite data attrition Lysholm scores improved over the 15-month follow-up period, matched data showed the most improvement occurred within the first 2 months post-operatively. A peak score of 90 was observed at nine months. Post-operative TAS results showed an improvement in level of function but did not reach pre-injury levels by the final follow-up. At final follow-up, six (1.1%) patients required an ACLR revision. Conclusion. Patients who completed a home-based rehabilitation programme in Kurdistan had low revision rates and improved Lysholm scores 15 months post-operatively. To optimise resources, further research should investigate the efficacy of home-based rehabilitation for trauma and elective surgery in low- to middle-income countries and the developed world

The Poole Traction Splint (PTS) is a non-invasive technique that applies dynamic traction to the affected digit using materials readily available in the outpatient department. The primary aim of this study was to document the outcome of the PTS for hand phalangeal fractures. Over a four-year period (2017–2021), suitable patients were reviewed and referred for PTS to the hand physiotherapists. Functional outcome measures included range of motion (ROM), return to work, and a DASH score. In addition, a healthcare cost analysis was carried out. A total of 63 patients were treated with a PTS from 2017 to 2021. Data was analysed for 54 patients with 55 digits. The mean age was 43 years (17–72) and 53.7% (n=29) were female. There were 43 fractures involving the proximal phalanx and 12 involving the middle phalanx. The mean final composite range of movement averaged 209˚ (110–270°), classified as ‘good/excellent’ by ASSH criteria. The mean DASH score was 13.6 (0-43.2; n=45). All patients were able to return to work. Only two (3.7%) digits required conversion to surgical fixation. The PTS resulted in approximate savings of £2,452 per patient. The PTS is a cost-effective non-invasive low risk outpatient treatment method which provides a functional ROM and good functional outcomes in the treatment of complex phalangeal hand fractures, with minimal risk of surgical intervention being required

Aims. Following cast removal for nonoperatively treated distal radius fractures, rehabilitation facilitated by advice leaflet and advice video were compared to a course of face-to-face therapy. Methods. Adults with an isolated, nonoperatively treated distal radius fracture were included at six weeks post-cast removal. Participants were randomized to delivery of rehabilitation interventions in one of three ways: an advice leaflet; an advice video; or face-to-face therapy session(s). The primary outcome measure was the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score at six weeks post intervention and secondary outcome measures included DASH at one year, DASH work subscale, grip strength, and range of motion at six weeks and one year. Results. A total of 116 (97%) of 120 enrolled participants commenced treatment. Of those, 21 were lost to follow-up, resulting in 30 participants in the advice leaflet, 32 in the advice video, and 33 face-to-face therapy arms, respectively at six weeks of follow-up. There was no significant difference between the treatment groups in the DASH at six weeks (advice leaflet vs face-to-face therapy, p = 0.69; advice video vs face-to-face therapy, p = 0.56; advice leaflet vs advice video, p = 0.37; advice leaflet vs advice video vs face-to-face therapy, p = 0.63). At six weeks, there were no differences in any secondary outcome measures except for the DASH work subscale, where face-to-face therapy conferred benefit over advice leaflet (p = 0.01). Conclusion. Following cast removal for nonoperatively treated distal radius fractures, offering an advice leaflet or advice video for rehabilitation gives equivalent patient-reported outcomes to a course of face-to-face therapy. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(6):1033–1039

Aims. No randomized comparative study has compared the extensile lateral approach (ELA) and sinus tarsi approach (STA) for Sanders type 2 calcaneal fractures. This randomized comparative study was conducted to confirm whether the STA was prone to fewer wound complications than the ELA. Methods. Between August 2013 and August 2018, 64 patients with Sanders type 2 calcaneus fractures were randomly assigned to receive surgical treatment by the ELA (32 patients) and STA (32 patients). The primary outcome was development of wound complications. The secondary outcomes were postoperative complications, pain scored of a visual analogue scale (VAS), American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, 36-item Short Form health survey, operative duration, subtalar joint range of motion (ROM), Böhler’s angle and calcaneal width, and posterior facet reduction. Results. Although four patients (12.5%) in the ELA groups and none in the STA group experienced complications, the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.113). VAS and AOFAS score were significantly better in the STA group than in the ELA group at six months (p = 0.017 and p = 0.021), but not at 12 months (p = 0.096 and p = 0.200) after surgery. The operation time was significantly shorter in the STA group than in the ELA group (p < 0.001). The subtalar joint ROM was significantly better in the STA group (p = 0.015). Assessment of the amount of postoperative reduction compared with the uninjured limb showed significant restoration of calcaneal width in the ELA group compared with that in the STA group (p < 0.001). Conclusion. The ELA group showed higher frequency of wound complications than the STA group for Sanders type 2 calcaneal fractures even though this was not statistically significant. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(2):286–293

Despite multiple published reviews, the optimum method of correction and stabilisation of Blount's disease remains controversial. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of acute correction of late-onset tibial vara by percutaneous proximal tibial osteotomy with circular external fixation using two simple rings. This technique was developed to minimise cost in a context of limited resources. This study was conducted between 2016 and 2020. We retrospectively reviewed the clinical notes and radiographs of 30 patients (32tibiae) who had correction of late-onset tibia by proximal tibial osteotomy and Ilizarov external fixator. All cases were followed up to 2 years. The mean proximal tibial angle was 65.7° (±7.8) preoperatively and 89.8° (±1.7) postoperatively. The mean mechanical axis deviation improved from 56.2 (±8.3) preoperatively to 2.8 (±1.6) mm postoperatively. The mean femoral-tibial shaft angle was changed from – 34.3° (±6.7) preoperatively to 5.7° (±2.8) after correction. Complications included overcorrection (9%) and pin tract infection (25%). At final follow up, all patients had full knee range of motion and normal function. All cases progressed to union and there were no cases of recurrence of deformity. This simple procedure provides secure fixation allowing early weight bearing and early return to function. It can be used in the context of health care systems with limited resources. It has a relatively low complication rate. Our results suggest that acute correction and simple circular frame fixation is an excellent treatment choice for cases of late-onset tibia vara, especially in severe deformities

We report on the 5 year results of a randomized study comparing TKR performed using conventional instrumentation versus electromagnetic computer-assisted surgery. This study analysed patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) at 5 years utilising the American Knee Society Score (AKSS), Oxford Knee Score (OKS), the Short Form 36 score and range of motion (ROM). Of the 200 patients enrolled 125 completed 5 year follow up, 62 in the navigated group and 63 in the conventional group. There were 28 deceased patients, 29 withdrawals and 16 lost to follow-up. There was improvement in clinical function in most PROMs from 1-5 year follow up across both groups. OKS improved from a mean of 26.6 (12–55) to 35.1 (5–48). AKSS increased from 75.3 (0–100) to 78.4 (−10–100), SF36 from 58.9 (2.5–100) to 53.2 (0–100). ROM improved by an average 7 degrees from 110 degrees to 117 degrees (80–135). There was no statistically significant difference in PROMs between the groups at 5 years. Patients undergoing revision surgery were identified from the dataset and global PACS. There were no revisions within 5 years in the navigated group and 3 revisions in the conventional group, two for infection and one for mid-flexion instability, giving an all cause revision rate of 3.06% at 5 years for this group. There appears to be no significant advantage in clinical function for patients undergoing TKR for OA of the knee with electromagnetic navigation when compared to conventional techniques. There may be an advantage in reducing early revision rates using this technology

Risk of revision following total knee replacement is relatively high in patients under 55 years of age, but little is reported regarding non-revision outcomes. This study aims to identify predictors of dissatisfaction following TKR in patients younger than 55 years of age. We assessed 177 TKRs (157 consecutive patients) from 2008 to 2013. Data was collected on age, sex, implant, indication, BMI, social deprivation, range of motion, and prior knee surgery in addition to Oxford Knee Score (OKS) and SF-12 score. Postoperative data included knee range of motion, complications, and OKS, SF-12 score and satisfaction measures at one year. Overall, 24.9% of patients (44/177) were unsure or dissatisfied with their TKR. Significant predictors of dissatisfaction on univariable analysis (p<0.05) included: Kellgren-Lawrence grade 1/2 osteoarthritis; indication; poor preoperative OKS; postoperative complications; and poor improvements in OKS and pain component score (PCS) of the SF-12. Odds ratios for dissatisfaction by indication compared to primary OA: OA with previous meniscectomy 2.86; OA in multiply operated knee 2.94; OA with other knee surgery 1.7; OA with BMI>40kgm-2 2; OA post-fracture 3.3; and inflammatory arthropathy 0.23. Multivariable analysis showed poor preoperative OKS, poor improvement in OKS and postoperative stiffness, particularly flexion of <90°, independently predicted dissatisfaction (p<0.005). Patients coming to TKR when under 55 years of age differ from the ‘average’ arthroplasty population, often having complex knee histories and indications for surgery, and an elevated risk of dissatisfaction

Introduction. The same cup orientation is classically applied to all cases of hip replacement (45° abduction, 20° anteversion). We hypothesize that this orientation must be adapted to the patient's hip range of motion. We tested this hypothesis by means of an experimental study with respect to hip range of motion, comparing the classical orientation (45° and 20°), and the orientation obtained with computer-assisted navigation. Material and Methods. The experimental model included a hemipelvis equipped with a femur whose mobility was controlled for three configurations: stiff (60°/0°, 15°/10°, 10°/10°), average (80°/10°, 35°/30°,35°/25°), mobile (130°/30°, 50°/50°, 45°/35°). The hemipelvis and the cup holder were equipped with an electromagnetic system (Fastrack ™) to measure cup orientation. The Pleos™ navigation system (equipping the hemipelvis, the femur, and the cup holder) guided the cup orientation by detecting the positions risking impingement through a kinematic study of the hip. Nine operators each performed 18 navigation-guided implantations (162 hip abduction, anteversion, and range of movement measurements) in two series scheduled 2 months apart. Results. The model used herein showed intra and interobserver reliability. Compared to the navigation-assisted surgery, the arbitrary orientation gave a mean anteversion error of only 1° ± 6° (−12 to +19°) but 5° ± 8° (−26° to +13°) for abduction. However, 16% of the errors were more than 10° in anteversion (1/2 in the mobile configuration) and 11% of the errors were more than 15° in abduction (for the most part in the mobile configuration). With arbitrary orientation, the errors consisted in excess anteversion and insufficient abduction. Discussion and Conclusion. The experimental model developed was reliable and can be used to evaluate different prosthetic configurations. This study emphasizes that the ideal arbitrary cup orientation cannot be applied to all hips. All the surgeons are very reproducible but the only way to integrate the range of motion in there ‘own way to do’ in vitro, is to use a navigation system witch can guide the surgeon so as to reduce the risk of impingement and instability

Aims

Pneumatic tourniquets are often used during the surgical treatment of unstable traumatic ankle fractures. The aim of this study was to assess the risk of reoperation after open reduction and internal fixation of ankle fractures with and without the use of pneumatic tourniquets.

Aims

We introduced a self-care pathway for minimally displaced distal radius fractures, which involved the patient being discharged from a Virtual Fracture Clinic (VFC) without a physical review and being provided with written instructions on how to remove their own cast or splint at home, plus advice on exercises and return to function.

Background. No study compared the clinical results of the posterior-stabilized mobile-bearing knee with those of nonposterior-stabilized mobile-bearing knee in the same patients. The purpose of this study was to examine whether the clinical and radiographic results, range of motion, patients satisfaction, and complication rates would be better in the knees with a posterior-stabilized mobile-bearing knee than in the knees with a nonposterior-stabilized mobile-bearing knee. Methods. One hundred and fourteen patients (mean age, 67.9 years) received a nonposterior-stabilized mobile-bearing knee prosthesis in one knee and a posterior-stabilized mobile-bearing knee prosthesis in the contralateral knee. Seven patients were men, and 107 were women. At the time of each follow-up (mean, 7.3 years; range, seven to 7.6 years), the patients were assessed clinically and radiographically. Results. The mean postoperative Knee Society knee score (95 points versus 96 points, p=0.176), Hospital for Special Surgery knee score (92 points versus 93 points, p=0.077), and Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis score (21 versus 20 points, p=0.785) were similar between the two group. At the final follow-up, the average range of motion was 27.7° (range, 70° to 150°) in the knees with a nonposterior stabilized mobile-bearing prosthesis and it was 132° (range, 90 to 150 °) in the knees with a posterior-stabilized mobile-bearing prosthesis. Complication rates (2.6% versus 1.8%) were similar between the two groups. The estimated survival rate was 97.4% at eight years with an overall revision rate of 2.6% (three of 114 knees) in the nonposterior-stabilized mobile-bearing prosthesis group and 98.2% at eight years with an overall revision rate of 1.8% (two of 114 knees) in the posterior-stabilized mobile-bearing prosthesis group. Conclusions. After a minimum duration of follow-up of seven years, we found no significant differences between the two groups with regard to the clinical and radiographic results, or patient satisfaction, or complication rate. However, the posterior-stabilized mobile-bearing prosthesis group had a greater range of knee motion than the nonposterior-stabilized mobile-bearing prosthesis group

Aims

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is a common complication after elbow trauma and can cause severe upper limb disability. Although multiple prognostic factors have been reported to be associated with the development of post-traumatic HO, no model has yet been able to combine these predictors more succinctly to convey prognostic information and medical measures to patients. Therefore, this study aimed to identify prognostic factors leading to the formation of HO after surgery for elbow trauma, and to establish and validate a nomogram to predict the probability of HO formation in such particular injuries.

Aims

The aim of this study was to investigate the rate of revision for distal femoral arthroplasty (DFA) performed as a primary procedure for native knee fractures using data from the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Arthroplasty Registry (AOANJRR).

Patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) experience significant postoperative pain. This impedes early mobilization and delays hospital discharge. A prospective audit of 1081 patients undergoing primary TKA during 2008 was completed. All patients followed a programme including preoperative patient education, pre-emptive analgesia, spinal/epidural anaesthesia with propofol sedation, intra-articular soft tissue wound infiltration, postoperative high volume ropivacaine boluses with an intra-articular catheter and early mobilization. Primary outcome measure was length of stay. Secondary outcomes were verbal analogue pain scores on movement, time to mobilization, nausea and vomiting scores, urinary catheterization for retention, need for rescue analgesia, range of motion at discharge and six weeks postoperatively. The median day of discharge was postoperative day four. Median pain score on mobilization was three for first postoperative night, day one and two. 35% of patients ambulated on the day of surgery and 95% of patients within 24 hours. 79% patients experienced no nausea or vomiting. Catheterization rate was 6.9%. Rescue analgesia was required in 5% of cases. The median day of discharge was postoperative day four. Median range of motion was 85° on discharge and 93° at six weeks postoperatively. This comprehensive care plan provides satisfactory postoperative analgesia allowing early safe ambulation and discharge

The aims of this study were to undertake a prospective randomised trial to compare functional outcome, and range of motion after treatment of medial collateral ligament injuries by either early unprotected mobilisation or mobilisation with a hinged brace. Patients were randomised into either unprotected mobilisation or mobilisation with a hinged brace. Assessments occurred at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months. Outcome measures included validated questionnaires (International Knee Documentation Committee and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score scores), range of motion measurements and strength testing. Eighty six patients (mean age 30.4) were recruited. There were 53 men and 33 women. The mode of injury was sport in 56 patients (65%) with football, rugby and skiing being the most common types of sport involved. The mean time to return to full weight bearing was 3 weeks in both groups. The mean time to return to work was 4.6 weeks in the braced group and 4.1 weeks in the non-braced group (p=0.79). Return to running was at a mean of 14.3 weeks in the braced group and 12.8 weeks in the non-braced group (p=0.64). Return to full sport was 22 weeks in the braced group and 22.1 weeks in the non-braced group (p=0.99). There was no significant difference in range of movement or pain scores between the two groups at 2,6,12 and 24 weeks. The use of a hinged knee brace does not influence recovery after a medial collateral injury