Aims

The degree of displacement of a fracture of the distal radius is an important factor which can be assessed using simple radiographic measurements. Our aim was to investigate the reliability and reproducibility of these measurements and to determine if they should be used clinically.

Aims. To identify a core outcome set of postoperative radiographic measurements to assess technical skill in ankle fracture open reduction internal fixation (ORIF), and to validate these against Van der Vleuten’s criteria for effective assessment. Methods. An e-Delphi exercise was undertaken at a major trauma centre (n = 39) to identify relevant parameters. Feasibility was tested by two authors. Reliability and validity was tested using postoperative radiographs of ankle fracture operations performed by trainees enrolled in an educational trial (IRCTN 20431944). To determine construct validity, trainees were divided into novice (performed < ten cases at baseline) and intermediate groups (performed ≥ ten cases at baseline). To assess concurrent validity, the procedure-based assessment (PBA) was considered the gold standard. The inter-rater and intrarater reliability was tested using a randomly selected subset of 25 cases. Results. Overall, 235 ankle ORIFs were performed by 24 postgraduate year three to five trainees during ten months at nine NHS hospitals in England, UK. Overall, 42 PBAs were completed. The e-Delphi panel identified five ‘final product analysis’ parameters and defined acceptability thresholds: medial clear space (MCS); medial malleolar displacement (MMD); lateral malleolar displacement (LMD); tibiofibular clear space (TFCS) (all in mm); and talocrural angle (TCA) in degrees. Face validity, content validity, and feasibility were excellent. PBA global rating scale scores in this population showed excellent construct validity as continuous (p < 0.001) and categorical (p = 0.001) variables. Concurrent validity of all metrics was poor against PBA score. Intrarater reliability was substantial for all parameters (intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) > 0.8), and inter-rater reliability was substantial for LMD, MMD, TCA, and moderate (ICC 0.61 to 0.80) for MCS and TFCS. Assessment was time efficient compared to PBA. Conclusion. Assessment of technical skill in ankle fracture surgery using the first postoperative radiograph satisfies the tested Van der Vleuten’s utility criteria for effective assessment. 'Final product analysis' assessment may be useful to assess skill transfer in the simulation-based research setting. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(6):502–509

Aims

Hip disease is common in children with cerebral palsy (CP) and can decrease quality of life and function. Surveillance programmes exist to improve outcomes by treating hip disease at an early stage using radiological surveillance. However, studies and surveillance programmes report different radiological outcomes, making it difficult to compare. We aimed to identify the most important radiological measurements and develop a core measurement set (CMS) for clinical practice, research, and surveillance programmes.

Acromioclavicular joint injuries are one of the most common injuries in the shoulder girdle complex. Surgical management is considered based on patient profile, level of activity, pain, and classification of injury. To date, a vast array of surgical techniques have been proposed and described in the literature, a possible reason being that the optimal solution is still uncertain. The aim of this study is to determine the efficacy of an alternative surgical technique. This study is a retrospective case series of 80 patients that have been operated by a single surgeon over a period of 6 years. A novel surgical technique, the ‘BiPOD method’, was applied where a synthetic artificial ligament (LARS®) is used to reconstruct and reduce the acromioclavicular joint. The technique is done in a reproducible manner, where a single continuous artificial ligament is used to reduce and reconstruct both, the coracoclavicular and acromioclavicular ligament complexes to achieve bidirectional stability. Patients were followed-up postoperatively, either clinically where possible or telephonically. The Acromioclavicular Joint Instability Score (ACJI) and radiographic measurements were used to determine the clinical and surgical outcome of the surgery. Radiographic parameters, measuring the reduction of the coracoclavicular- and acromioclavicular joint, were analysed and documented. The results showed marked improvement in both, the coracoclavicular distance and acromioclavicular distance. Clinically, using the ACJI scoring system, the patients reported substantial improvement in pain and function. Complications were recorded but were insignificant. The BiPOD surgical technique, making use of an artificial LARS® ligament, has proven acceptable outcomes in the surgical management of acromioclavicular joint dislocations

Introduction. Symptomatic hip dysplasia is often treated with periacetabular osteotomy (PAO). Studies investigating the effect of PAO have primarily focused on radiographic measurements, pain-related outcomes, and hip survival whereas evidence related to sport participation is limited. Methods. All patients in our institutional database were deemed eligible for this cohort study if they underwent PAO and had answered at least one question related to sport participation. Patients were asked if they were playing sport preoperatively, 6 months after PAO as well as 2, 5, 10, 15 and 20 years after. In addition, patients were asked if they were able to play their preferred sport, what type and at what level they were playing sport, and if surgery had improved their sport performance. Results. Among 2398 patients surveyed, 1926 (80%) were included and 56% were playing sport 6 months after PAO. This number was 61% two years after PAO, and remained around that for the following years, before dropping 15 years after PAO. Between 56% and 71% of patients felt that their sporting performance improved following PAO at the different time points. Between 39% (6 months after PAO) and 63% (15 years after PAO) were able to participate in their preferred sport. Conclusion. The majority of patients undergoing PAO due to hip dysplasia will return to, and maintain, sport after PAO. More than half of patients undergoing PAO believe that the surgery improved their sports performance, and long after the surgery more than half of patients undergoing PAO are able to play their preferred sport

The periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) is a well-described procedure for symptomatic acetabular dysplasia. For severe acetabular deformities, the efficacy of acetabular reorientation remains controversial and the literature on mid to long-term outcomes is limited. The purpose of this study was to analyze average 10-year clinical and radiographic results of the PAO for severe acetabular dysplasia. We retrospectively analyzed a consecutive series of patients undergoing PAO for severe acetabular dysplasia as defined by LCEA < 5˚. Patient demographics, radiographic measurements, modified Harris Hip score (MHHS), UCLA activity, SF-12, and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) were assessed. Sixty-eight patients (82 hips; 54 females) with an average age 20.7 and BMI of 24.4 kg/m2 were included. Mean follow-up was follow up was 10.3 years. . The LCEA and ACEA improved a mean of 32.8˚ (8.4˚ to 24.4˚, p<0.0001) and 31.6˚ (−4.9˚ to 26.7˚, p< 0.0001), respectively. MHHS improved an average of 17.5 points (64.6 to 82.3, p<0.0001), WOMAC Pain subscore improved an average of 21.1 points (65.7 to 85.0, p = 0.004), and SF-12 physical improved 11.8 points (from 40.3 to 50.6, p = 0.006). Activity improved as indicated by a 1.5-point increase in the UCLA Activity score (6.4 to 7.9, p=0.005). Six hips (9.1%) converted to THA at average 6.8 years post-PAO. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis with THA as the endpoint was 92% at 15 years (95% confidence interval [CI] (81%–96%). Multivariable linear regression analysis revealed concurrent osteochondroplasty was associated with a decreased risk of PAO failure. PAO is an effective treatment for severe acetabular dysplasia. At average 10.3 years, clinical and radiographic outcomes demonstrate pain relief, improved hip function, and major deformity correction. We observed minimal clinical deterioration over time

Preoperative talar valgus deformity increases the technical difficulty of total ankle replacement (TAR) and is associated with an increased failure rate. Deformity of ≥15° has been reported to be a contraindication to arthroplasty. The goal of the present study was to determine whether the operative procedures and clinical outcomes of TAR for treatment of end-stage ankle arthritis were comparable for patients with preoperative talar valgus deformity of ≥15° as compared to those with <15°. We will describe the evolving surgical technique being utilized to tackle these challenging cases. Fifty ankles with preoperative coronal-plane tibiotalar valgus deformity of ≥15° “valgus” group) and 50 ankles with valgus deformity of <15° (“control” group) underwent TAR. The cohorts were similar with respect to demographics and components used. All TARs were performed by a single surgeon. The mean duration of clinical follow-up was 5.5 years (minimum two years). Preoperative and postoperative radiographic measurements of coronal-plane deformity, Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale (AOS) scores and Short Form (SF)-36 scores were prospectively recorded. All ancillary (intraoperative) and secondary procedures, complications and measurements were collected. The AOS pain and disability subscale scores decreased significantly in both groups. The improvement in AOS and SF-36 scores did not differ significantly between the groups at the time of the final follow-up. The valgus group underwent more ancillary procedures during the index surgery (80% vs 26%). Tibio-talar deformity improved significantly toward a normal weight-bearing axis in the valgus group. Secondary postoperative procedures were more common in the valgus group (36%) than the controls (20%). Overall, re-operation was not associated with poorer patient outcome scores. Metal component revision surgery occurred in seven patients (three valgus and four controls). These revisions included two deep infections (2%), one in each group, which were converted to hindfoot fusions. Therefore, 94% of the valgus group retained their original components at final follow-up. Thus far, this is the largest reported study that specifically evaluates TAR with significant preoperative valgus alignment, in addition to having the longest follow-up. Satisfactory midterm results were achieved in patients with valgus mal-alignment of ≥15°. The valgus cohort required more procedures during and after their TAR, as well as receiving more novel techniques to balance their TAR. Whilst longer term studies are needed, valgus coronal-plane alignment of ≥15° should not be considered an absolute contraindication to TAR if the associated deformities are addressed

The best algorithm, measurements, and criteria for screening children with Down syndrome for upper cervical instability are controversial. Many authors have recommended obtaining flexion and extension views. We noted that patients who require surgical stabilization due to myelopathy or cord compression typically have grossly abnormal radiographic measurements on the neutral upright lateral cervical spine radiograph (NUL). This study was designed to determine whether a full series of cervical spine images including flexion/extension lateral radiographs (FEL) was important to avoid missing upper cervical instability. This is a retrospective evaluation of cervical spine images obtained between 2006 and 2012 for the purposes of “screening” children with Down syndrome for evidence of instability. The atlanto-dental interval, space available for cord, and basion axial interval were measured on all films. The Weisel-Rothman measurement was made in the FEL series. Clinical outcome of those with abnormal measurements were reviewed. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values of NUL and FEL x-rays for identifying clinically significant cervical spine instability were calculated. Two-hundred and forty cervical spine series in 213 patients with Down syndrome between the ages of four months and 25 years were reviewed. One hundred and seventy-two children had a NUL view, and 88 of these patients also had FEL views. Only one of 88 patients was found to have an abnormal ADI (≥6mm), SAC (≤14mm), or BAI (>12mm) on an FEL series that did not have an abnormal measurement on the NUL. This patient had no evidence of cord compression or myelopathy. Obtaining a single NUL x-ray is an efficient method for radiographic screening of cervical spine instability. Further evaluation may be required if abnormal measurements are identified on the NUL x-ray. We also propose new “normal” values for the common radiographic measurements used in assessing risk of cervical spine instability in patients with Down syndrome

Background:. Acetabular cup positioning. 1, 2. , leg length discrepancy. 3. and global offset. 4. are important parameters associated with outcomes following total hip arthroplasty (THA). Deviation from an accepted range of values for each of these parameters can lead to significant complications including nerve injury, low back pain, abnormal gait, increased dislocation rate, and bearing surface wear. The primary purpose of this study was to assess whether the use of the MAKO™ robotic hip system is reliable in predicting post-operative radiographic measurements of cup inclination, cup anteversion, leg length change, and global offset change in THA. Materials and Methods:. All robotic-assisted THAs performed using the MAKO™ system between June 2011 and Dec 2012 were reviewed. A single surgeon performed all cases through a mini-posterior approach. The intra-operative measurements of cup inclination and anteversion angles, leg length change, and global offset change recorded by the MAKO™ system were compared to the post-operative radiographic measurements. Results:. Sixty one cases met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A strong inter- and intra-observer correlation was found for the radiographic measurements of cup inclination, cup anteversion, leg length discrepancy and global offset (r > 0.8 with p < 0.001 for all). Comparison between the MAKO™ and the radiographic measurements showed mean differences in inclination of 3.2° ± 2.7° (CI. 95. = 0.7), mean differences in anteversion of 3.8° ± 2.6° (CI. 95. = 0.7), mean differences in leg length change of 3.5 ± 2.6 mm (CI. 95. = 0.7), and mean differences in global offset change of 4.5 ± 3.7 mm (CI. 95. = 1.0). 85.2% of MAKO™-measured inclination angles were within 5° of radiographic measurements, and 96.7% within 10°. 65.6% of MAKO™-measured anteversion angles were within 5° of radiographic measurements, and 98.4% within 10° (Figure 1). 69.4% of MAKO™-measured leg length change measurements were within 5 mm of radiographic measurements, and 100% within 10 mm. 71.4% of MAKO™-measured global offset change measurements were within 5 mm of radiographic measurements, and 91.8% within 10 mm (Figure 2). Conclusion:. The MAKO™ robotic hip system showed good predictive value for cup inclination and anteversion angles, leg length change and femoral offset change measurements done post-operatively on plain radiographs. Further refinement of the MAKO™ system would be expected to make it more accurate in predicting the post-operative parameters mentioned

Multiple studies have shown that the symptomatology of knee osteoarthritis weakly correlate to radiographic severity of disease. Current literature however does not have much in the way of comparing functional outcomes of those with OA knees with radiographic severity. Our objective was to compare radiographic measurements of OA knees with self-reported functional outcomes and determine if radiographic severity of OA knees correlated with loss of functional ability. A retrospective review of prospectively collected registry data of 305 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee was collected. The patient's x-rays were reviewed, and radiographic measurements were taken to include medial, lateral and patellofemoral joint space distance measured in millimetres. The Kellgren and Lawrence, and Ahlback classifications of radiographic knee OA were computed. These were correlated with severity of functional limitations was measured using the SF36, Knee society score (KSS) and Oxford knee scores. Statistical analysis were conducted with SPSS V22.0 statistical software. Demographic characteristics and functional assessments were analysed using one way ANOVA test. Post-hoc test using Tukey HSD and effect size (partial-eta squared η. 2. ) was performed if one-way ANOVA was found to be statistically significant. A p-value of 0.05 or less was considered statistically significant. Pre-operative patient demographics are shown in table 1. Patients in with Grade 2 osteoarthritis were significantly younger than Grade 4 patients (post-hoc p=0.003). There were no statistically significant differences in age between the other Grades, and there were no differences in BMI or gender or operative site between all grades. There were significant differences in KSS Function scores between Grade 2 and Grade 3 patients (post-hoc p=0.017) and Grade 2 and 4 patients (post-hoc p < 0 .001). Statistically significant differences were also found between Grade 1 and Grade 4 patients for the KSS Knee score (post-hoc p=0.016). There were significant differences in Oxford knee score (post-hoc p=0.026) and SF- Physical Function (post-hoc p < 0 .001) between Grade 2 and Grade 4 patients too. The effect size η. 2. for KSS Function, KSS Knee and Oxford knee score was 0.05, 0.06 and 0.33 respectively. When comparing the loss of joint space with the functional scores, there were no statistically significant correlations. Our study show that the radiological severity of knee osteoarthritis based on the two scoring methods was able to correlate with worsening functional scores. Most notably, the differences in KSS function scores correlated strongly between Grade 2 and Grade 3 patients. Of note, there was no correlation between the loss of joint space and the severity of functional limitations across any of the scoring systems. Our study showed that although both the Kellgren and Lawrence and Ahlback radiological grading of Osteoarthritis were able to correlate with worsening functional scores, this was not due to loss of joint space alone and further studies need to be conducted on the other contributors to the scoring system such as osteophytes and subchondral sclerosis. Our study show that the radiological severity of knee osteoarthritis based on the two scoring methods was able to correlate with worsening functional scores. Most notably, the differences in KSS function scores correlated strongly between Grade 2 and Grade 3 patients. Of note, there was no correlation between the loss of joint space and the severity of functional limitations across any of the scoring systems. Our study showed that although both the Kellgren and Lawrence and Ahlback radiological grading of Osteoarthritis were able to correlate with worsening functional scores, this was not due to loss of joint space alone and further studies need to be conducted on the other contributors to the scoring system such as osteophytes and subchondral sclerosis. For any figures or tables, please contact authors directly

Introduction. Leg length and offset are important considerations in total hip arthroplasty (THA). Navigation systems are capable of providing intra-operative measurements of leg length and offset, and high accuracy has been shown in experimental studies. Objective. This in-vivo study assesses the accuracy of an imageless navigation system, with a pin-less femoral array, in measuring offset and leg length changes. Method. A prospective, consecutive series of 24 patients undergoing navigated total hip arthroplasty were included in the study. Intra-operative measurements of leg length and offset were recorded using the navigation system. For each patient pre- and post-operative digital radiographs were scaled and analysed to provide radiographic measurements of change in leg length and offset. Results. Measurements of leg length change made by the navigation system showed a statistically significant correlation with the size of change measured radiographically (R=.77, P < 0.0001). The mean difference between the radiographic and navigational measurement was 0.4 ± 2.8 mm. The navigation system was accurate to within 1 mm of the radiographic measurement in 50% of cases, within 2 mm in 67% of cases, and within 5 mm in 96% of cases. Measurements of offset change by the navigation system also showed a statistically significant correlation with radiographic measurements, however the correlation was less pronounced (R=.47, P=0.02). The mean difference between navigational and radiographic measurements was 1.4 ± 6.4 mm. The navigation system was accurate to within 1 mm of the radiographic measurement in 8% of cases, within 2 mm in 25% of cases, and within 5 mm in 75% of cases. Conclusion. This study demonstrates in-vivo that an imageless, non-invasive navigation system is a reliable tool for intra-operative leg length and offset measurement

Navigation systems are able to measure very accurately the movement of bones, and consequently the knee laxity, which is a movement of the tibia under the femur. These systems might help measuring the knee laxity during the implantation of a total (TKR) or a unicompartmental (UKR) knee replacement. 20 patients operated on for TKR (13 cases) or UKR (7 cases) because of primary varus osteoarthritis have been analyzed. Pre-operative examination involved varus and valgus stress X-rays at 0 and 90° of knee flexion. The intra-operative medial and lateral laxity was measured with the navigation system at the beginning of the procedure and after prosthetic implantation. Varus and valgus stress X-rays were repeated after 6 weeks. X-ray and navigated measurements before and after knee replacement were compared with a paired Wilcoxon test at a 0.05 level of significance. The mean pre-operative medial laxity in extension was 2.3° (SD 2.3°). The mean pre-operative lateral laxity in extension was 5.6° (SD 5.1°). The mean pre-operative medial laxity in flexion was 2.2° (SD 1.9°). The mean pre-operative lateral laxity in flexion was 6.7° (SD 6.0°). The mean intra-operative medial laxity in extension at the beginning of the procedure was 3.6° (SD 1.7°). The mean intra-operative lateral laxity in extension at the beginning of the procedure was 3.0° (SD 1.3°). The mean intra-operative medial laxity in flexion at the beginning of the procedure was 1.9° (SD 2.6°). The mean intra-operative lateral laxity in flexion at the beginning of the procedure was 3.5° (SD 2.7°). The mean intra-operative medial laxity in extension after implantation was 2.1° (SD 0.9°). The mean intra-operative lateral laxity in extension after implantation was 1.9° (SD 1.1°). The mean intra-operative medial laxity in flexion after implantation was 1.9° (SD 2.5°). The mean intra-operative lateral laxity in flexion after implantation was 3.0° (SD 2.8°). The mean post-operative medial laxity in extension was 2.4° (SD 1.1°). The mean post-operative lateral laxity in extension was 2.0° (SD 1.7°). The mean post-operative medial laxity in flexion was 4.4° (SD 3.3°). The mean post-operative lateral laxity in flexion was 4.7° (SD 3.2°). There was a significant difference between navigated and radiographic measurements for the pre-operative medial laxity in extension (mean = 1.4° – p = 0.005), the pre-operative lateral laxity in extension (mean = 2.6° – p = 0.01), the pre-operative lateral laxity in flexion (mean = 3.3° – p = 0.005). There was no significant difference between navigated and radiographic measurements for the pre-operative medial laxity in flexion (mean = 0.3° – p = 0.63). There was a significant difference between navigated and radiographic measurements for the postoperative medial laxity in flexion (mean = 2.5° – p = 0.004). There was no significant difference between navigated and radiographic measurements for the postoperative medial laxity in extension (mean = 0.3° – p = 0.30), the post-operative lateral laxity in extension (mean = 0.2° – p = 0.76), the post-operative lateral laxity in flexion (mean = 1.7° – p = 0.06). These differences were less than 2 degrees in most of the cases, and then considered as clinically irrelevant. The navigation system used allowed measuring the medial and lateral laxity before and after TKR. This measurement was significantly different from the radiographic measurement by stress X-rays for pre-operative laxity, but not statistically different from the radiographic measurement by stress X-rays for post-operative laxity. The differences were mostly considered as clinically irrelevant. The navigated measurement of the knee laxity can be considered as accurate. The navigated measurement is valuable information for balancing the knee during TKR. The reproducibility of this balancing might be improved due to a more objective assessment

Introduction. Up to 15 % of patients report anterior knee pain (AKP) after a total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The correlation of radiographic patellar measurements and post-operative AKP remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to determine whether any radiographic measurements can predict anterior knee pain after TKA. Methods. We performed a retrospective analysis of data on 343 patients who underwent a primary unilateral TKA between 2009–2012 at a single institution. Post-operative radiographs were evaluated with standing anteroposterior, lateral, and merchant views. Radiographic assessment was performed to assess posterior offset, Insall Salvati ratio, Blackburne, PP angle, Patella thickness, Congruence angle, Patella tilt, and patella displacement. Clinical function was assessed by the Kujala anterior knee pain scale at a minimum of 5 years. Patients were asked if they currently had anterior knee pain post-operatively by responding “yes” or “no.” There were 264 females and 79 males; the mean age at surgery was 64.2 ± 9.7 (range, 42–92 years) years; the mean BMI 31±5.8 kg/m. 2. (range, 18.8–49 kg/m. 2. ). Results. Of the 343 patients, 46 patients (13.4%) patients suffered persistent AKP at a minimum 5 years follow-up. Radiographic measurements were performed. Although we had large variations in congruence angle, patellar tilt and patellar displacement, these variations had no correlation with anterior knee pain (p=0.885). We were not able to detect statistical significance among clinical outcome Kujala score and patient reported AKP (p=0.713) at minimum 5 year follow-up. Discussion. Persistent anterior knee pain is troubling to patients and surgeons. Clinicians often get concerned when they see variability in these radiographic findings. Our findings suggest that variations in radiographic parameters do not predict anterior knee pain following total knee replacement surgery. For figures, tables, or references, please contact authors directly

Scoliosis is estimated to occur between 21–64% of patients with cerebral palsy (CP), where a subset of patients develops early onset scoliosis (EOS) before the age of ten. Traditional growth friendly (TGF) surgeries in the context of traditional growing rods have been shown to be effective in treating scoliosis in this population, however significant complication rates are reported. Currently, no studies have been done to examine the effect of novel growth friendly surgeries such as magnetically controlled growing rods (MCGR) on EOS in CP patients. The objective of this study is to compare MCGR with TGF surgeries in this patient population, specifically by evaluating radiographic measurements and risk of unplanned reoperations (UPRORs). Patients with EOS secondary to CP were prospectively identified from an international database, with data retrospectively analyzed. Scoliosis (primary curve), maximum kyphosis, T1-S1 and T1-T12 height were measured pre-operation, immediate post-operation, and at two-years follow-up. The risk and etiology of UPRORs were compared between MCGR and TGF. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant for all analyses. Of the 120 patients that met inclusion criteria, 86 received TGF (age 7.5 ± 1.8 years; follow-up 7.0 ± 2.9 years) and 34 received MCGR (age 7.1 ± 2.2 years, follow-up 2.8 ± 0.5 years). Compared to TGF, MCGR resulted in significant improvements in maintenance of scoliosis correction (p=0.04). At final follow-up, UPRORs were 24% for MCGR (8/34 patients) and 43% (37/86 patients) for TGF (p=0.05). To minimize the influence of follow-up period, UPRORs within the first two years post-operation were evaluated: MCGR (21%, 7/34 patients) vs. TGF (14%, 12/86 patients; p=0.37). Within the first two years, etiology of UPROR as a percentage of all patients per group were deep infection (5% TGF, 6% MCGR), implant failure/migration (5% TGF, 9% MCGR), dehiscence (2% TGF, 3% MCGR), and superficial infection (1% TGF, 3% MCGR). The most common etiology of UPROR for TGF was deep infection and implant failure/migration and for MCGR was implant failure/migration. For patients with CP, at final follow-up, MCGR had superior maintenance of scoliosis correction; however, there was no difference in risk of UPROR within the first two years post-operatively (21% MCGR, 14% TGF)

We sought to validate a method of measuring the range of motion of knees on radiographs as part of a new system of “Virtual Knee Clinics”. The range of motion of 52 knees in 45 patients were first obtained clinically with goniometers and compared to radiographs of these patients' knees in full active flexion and extension. Four methods of plotting the range of motion on the radiographs were compared. The intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) for inter-rater reliability using the goniometer was very high; ICC=0.90 in extension and 0.85 in flexion. The best ICC for radiographic measurement in extension was 0.86 indicating substantial agreement and best ICC in flexion was 0.95 (method 4). ICC for intra-rater reliability was 0.98 for extension and 0.99 for flexion on radiographic measurements. Measuring range of motion of the knee has never previously been validated in the literature. This study has allowed us to set up a “Virtual Knee Clinic,” combining postal questionnaires and radiographic measurements as a surrogate for knee function. We aim to maintain high quality patient surveillance following knee arthroplasty, reduce our new to follow-up ratios in line with Department of Health guidelines and improve patient satisfaction through reduced travel to hospital outpatients

Restoration of ankle alignment is thought to be critical in total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) outcomes, but previous research is primarily focused on coronal alignment. The purpose of this study was to investigate the sagittal alignment of the talar component. The talar component inclination, measured by the previously-described gamma angle, was hypothesized to be predictive of TAA outcomes. A retrospective review of the Canadian Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (COFAS) database of ankle arthritis was performed on all TAA cases at a single center over a 11-year period utilizing one of two modern implant designs. Cases without postoperative x-rays taken between 6 and 12 weeks were excluded. The gamma angle was measured by two independent orthopaedic surgeons twice each and standard descriptive statistics was done in addition to a survival analysis. The postoperative gamma angles were analyzed against several definitions of TAA failure and patient-reported outcome measures from the COFAS database by an expert biostatistician. 109 TAA cases satisfied inclusion and exclusion criteria. An elevated postoperative gamma angle higher than 22 degrees was associated with talar component subsidence, defined as a change in gamma angle of 5 degrees or more between postoperative and last available followup radiographs. This finding was true when adjusting for age, gender, body mass index (BMI), and inflammatory arthritis status. All measured angles were found to have good inter- and intraobserver reliability. Surgeons should take care to not excessively dorsiflex the talar cuts during TAA surgery. The gamma angle is a simple and reliable radiographic measurement to predict long-term outcomes of TAA and can help surgeons counsel their patients postoperatively

Aims. Our study aimed to 1) Describe the changes in spinopelvic mobility when transitioning from standing, to ‘relaxed-seated’ and thereafter to ‘deep-seated’ position and 2) Determine the change in spinopelvic mobility types 1 year post-THA compared to preoperatively. Methods. This prospective diagnostic cohort study followed 100 consecutive patients 1 year post-THA. Preoperatively and one year postoperatively, radiographic measurements were performed for the lumbar-lordosis-angle, pelvic tilt and pelvic-femoral-angle on lateral radiographs in the standing, ‘relaxed-seated’ and ‘deep-seated’ position (torso maximally leaning forward). Patients were classified according to their spinopelvic mobility type, according to the change in PT between the standing and relaxed-seated position (stiff:ΔPT<±10°, normal:10°≤ΔPT≤30°, hypermobile:ΔPT>±30°). Results. Compared to preoperatively, when moving from a standing to a relaxed-seated position, hip flexion increased by 10°±18, leading to less posterior pelvic tilt by 6°±11 and reduced lumbar spine flexion by 6°±11 (all p<0.001). Similarly, when moving from the standing to deep-seated position, hip flexion improved by a mean of 8°±22, leading to reduced lumbar spine flexion by a mean of 5°±8, whereas the change in pelvic tilt did not change compared to preoperatively (p=0.016, p<0.001, p=0.46). The distribution of spinopelvic mobility types 1 year postoperatively was significantly different compared to preoperatively, as the percentage of patients with stiff spinopelvic mobility increased from 16% to 43% (p<0.001). Conclusion. Hip flexion improved by 10° on average 1 year after total hip arthroplasty. Thus, slightly less compensatory posterior pelvic tilt and lumbar spine flexion was needed when taking a relaxed-seated position. When taking a deep-seated position, improved hip flexion required less lumbar spine flexion. However, these changes were small when being compared to preoperative variability of these parameters. Thus, individual spinopelvic mobility remains relatively unchanged 1 year after THA compared to preoperatively

The trend toward evidence-based decision-making in orthopedics requires the analysis of large sets of data in real time that can direct clinical decision-making. We have developed an automated web-based electronic data capture (EDC) software system designed to simplify and make more time and cost efficient orthopedic data collection and analysis. The purpose of this study is to validate the radiographic alignment tool of the EDC software system. The goal was to establish the feasibility of using this web-based EDC tool in clinical practice. Twenty-eight consecutive unilateral TKAs were performed on 28 patients. Coronal mechanical axis and sagittal tibial and femoral axis radiographic measurements were obtained preoperatively and 1 month postoperatively. The radiographs were uploaded to a web-based EDC knee surgery data analysis program that includes a radiographic measurement tool. Two blinded observers analyzed the radiographs; one using a conventional manual measurement tool and the other a web based measurement tool. A paired t-test was used to evaluate measurement variation between observers. There was no statistically significant difference in pre-operative mechanical axis (.18°, p> .05), postoperative mechanical axis (.25°, p> .05), postoperative femoral component axis (.68°, p> .05), and postoperative tibial component axis (1.07°, p> .05) measurements performed using the manual tool and the web-based software systems. The results of this study validate the ability of the web-based software system to collect and process radiographic measurements. An automated web-based EDC software system allows for the full integration of patient demographic, radiographic, and peri-operative clinical variables in a fully searchable, instantaneously updatable and easily analyzed database. It is anticipated that this unique approach will allow surgeons to gather a wealth of searchable and quantifiable data that can quickly, accurately, economically, and efficiently shape clinical decisions

Introduction. Accurate acetabular position is an important goal during THA. It is also well known that accurate acetabular positioning is very frequently not achieved, even by experienced, high volume surgeons. Problems associated with cup malposition are: dislocation, accelerated poly wear, impingement, ceramic squeaking, metalosis. Murray et al described 3 methods of measurement and assessment of acetabular inclination and anteversion (I&A): anatomic, radiographic and operative. It is the hypothesis of the authors, that the differences and details of these 3 methods are poorly understood by many surgeons and this is contributory to inconsistent cup positioning. Additionally, the radiographic method, which is most commonly used for post op assessment and academic studies, contributes to misunderstanding and error. Modern computer guidance and software assessment of radiographs allows us to easily measure anatomic I&A which should be thought of as “true” I&A. Methods. The mathematical criteria for radiographic measurement of anatomic I&A are defined as well as the mathematical relationships and discrepancies between anatomic and radiographic I&A for any given cup. A. =. A. n. g. l. e.  . o. f.  . a. n. t. e. v. e. r. s. i. o. n.  . o. f.  . c. u. p. I. =. A. n. g. l. e.  . o. f.  . i. n. c. l. i. n. a. t. i. o. n.  . o. f.  . c. u. p. E = Angle of ellipse major diameter to horizontal. E = Radiographic inclination. Sin.  . A. =. H. o. r. i. z. o. n. t. a. l.  . w. i. d. t. h.  . o. f.  . e. l. l. i. p. s. e. L. e. n. g. t. h.  . o. f.  . e. l. l. i. p. s. e.  . m. a. j. o. r.  . d. i. a. m. e. t. e. r. Sin.  . I. =. V. e. r. t. i. c. a. l.  . h. e. i. g. h. t.  . o. f.  . e. l. l. i. p. s. e. L. e. n. g. t. h.  . o. f.  . e. l. l. i. p. s. e.  . m. a. j. o. r.  . d. i. a. m. e. t. e. r. Tan I = Tan E / Cos A. Tan E = (Tan I) x (Cos A). Results. Numerical values for radiographic I&A and anatomic I&A coincide for cups placed at 0 degrees anteversion. However, as cup anteversion increases, there is an exponentially increasing discrepancy between anatomic and radiographic inclination values with I always having a higher value than E. Commonly used radiographic inclination values (E) therefore always underestimate anatomic (true) inclination. Additionally, radiographic anteversion, except for 0 degrees anteversion, always underestimates anatomic (true) anteversion. Wear testing of cups by manufacturers and associated recommendations for cup positioning are based on anatomic measurement of inclination while surgeons now use a different method (radiographic) for measuring position. Axial CT analysis of cup anteversion agrees mathematically with anatomic anteversion and does not mathematically agree with the Murray radiographic criteria. Conclusions. Surgeons can intuitively understand that accurate radiographic measurement of femoral neck-shaft angle can only be done if the proximal femur is correctly rotated in relation to the x-ray beam, specifically the x-ray beam must be perpendicular to the plane determined by the intersection of the center lines of the neck and shaft. Any other femoral rotation will show a false increase in the neck shaft angle. Though less intuitive, true cup I is only represented by the angle seen on x-ray at only one A value, 0 degrees. Anteverting the cup as is desirable for THA stability creates a discrepancy between the apparent cup angle (E) and true inclination. Since the principles of solid geometry are widely adopted and accepted, the above results and conclusions are based on mathematical proof, not experimental findings. Erroneous conclusions such as “the cup position is good but the hip still dislocates” can be associated with a surgeon's lack of understanding of true I&A. Surgeons need to understand the differences between what they believe to be represented by x-rays and anatomic or true I&A as represented by the cup's position in relation to the body's transverse, coronal, and sagittal planes and x, y, and z axes. The authors believe that a surgeon's continued lack of understanding of the mathematics can be compensated for by the technologies of computer guidance and/or software analysis of cup x-rays

Summary. The ankle X-ray has moderate diagnostic power to identify syndesmotic instability, showing large sensitivity ranges between observers. Classification systems and radiographic measurements showed moderate to high interobserver agreement, with extended classifications performing worse. Introduction. There is no consensus regarding the diagnosis and treatment of ankle fractures with respect to syndesmotic injury. The diagnosis of syndesmotic injury is currently based on intraoperative findings. Surgical indication is mainly made by ankle X-ray assessment, by several classification systems and radiographic measurements. Misdiagnosis of the injury results in suboptimal treatment, which may lead to chronic complaints, like instability and osteoarthritis. This study investigates the diagnostic power and interobserver agreement of three classification methods and radiographic measures, currently used to assess X-ankles and to identify syndesmotic injury. Patients and Methods. Twenty patients (43.2 ± 15.3yrs) with an ankle fracture, indicated for surgery, were prospectively included. All patients received a preoperative ankle X-ray, which was assessed by several observers: two orthopaedic surgeons, one trauma surgeon and two radiologists. The ankle X-ray was assessed on syndesmotic injury/stability and presence of fractures (fibula, medial/tertius malleolus). Three classification systems were used: Weber, AO-Müller (short-version n=3 options; extended-version n=27 options), Lauge-Hansen (short-version n=5 options; extended-version n=17 options) and two radiographic measurements were done: tibiofibular overlap (TFO) and ratio medial clearspace/superior clear space (MCS/SCS). All observers were instructed about the assessments before the measurements. During surgery, a proper intraoperative description of the syndesmosis was noted. Agreement (%), Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC) and Kappa were calculated to determine interobserver agreement. Kappa statistic was interpreted according to Landis and Koch. To test the diagnostic power of ankle X-rays to identify syndesmotic instability, sensitivity and specificity were calculated with intraoperative findings serving as golden standard. Results. Six of 20 ankles showed syndesmotic instability intraoperatively. An overall sensitivity of 43% (specificity: 78) was found for X-rays in identifying syndesmotic instability, showing a wide range in sensitivity between observers (17–83%), with radiologists performing better (range 50–83%) than surgeons (range: 17–33%). Overall, substantial to perfect interobserver agreement (range 70–100%) was found for all short classification systems, showing an average kappa ≥0.60. The agreement reduced for more extended classification systems. E.g. observer agreement for the AO-Muller classification with 3, 9 and 27 options was respectively 85% (kappa 0.66), 68% (kappa 0.57) and 55% (kappa 0.51). One observer deviated slightly from others in all classification assessments. Removing this observer resulted in excellent agreement for all classification systems (>90%). Radiographic measurements showed moderate to high interobserver agreement, with TFO performing best (avg. ICC 0.88). Discussion/Conclusion. In ankle fractures, a preoperative X-ray has low sensitivity in detecting syndesmotic instability, showing large sensitivity ranges between observers. Further study is needed to investigate the contribution of classification systems in determining the best treatment method for syndesmotic injury. Ankle X-ray assessment using the three classification systems and radiographic measures was consistent among observers. Disagreement between observers can be attributed to intrinsic differences among the systems (e.g. stepwise classification vs. single assessment). No preference for one specific classification was found, as all showed comparable interobserver agreement. However classification systems with few options are recommended, as the observer agreement reduced with more extending classifications