Aims. This systematic review aims to identify 3D predictors derived from biplanar reconstruction, and to describe current methods for improving curve prediction in patients with mild adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Methods. A comprehensive search was conducted by three independent investigators on MEDLINE, PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. Search terms included “adolescent idiopathic scoliosis”,“3D”, and “progression”. The inclusion and exclusion criteria were carefully defined to include clinical studies. Risk of bias was assessed with the Quality in Prognostic Studies tool (QUIPS) and Appraisal tool for Cross-Sectional Studies (AXIS), and level of evidence for each predictor was rated with the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) approach. In all, 915 publications were identified, with 377 articles subjected to full-text screening; overall, 31 articles were included. Results. Torsion index (TI) and apical vertebral rotation (AVR) were identified as accurate predictors of curve progression in early visits. Initial TI > 3.7° and AVR > 5.8° were predictive of curve progression. Thoracic hypokyphosis was inconsistently observed in progressive curves with weak evidence. While sagittal wedging was observed in mild curves, there is insufficient evidence for its correlation with curve progression. In curves with initial Cobb angle < 25°, Cobb angle was a poor predictor for future curve progression. Prediction accuracy was improved by incorporating serial reconstructions in stepwise layers. However, a lack of post-hoc analysis was identified in studies involving geometrical models. Conclusion. For patients with mild curves, TI and AVR were identified as predictors of curve progression, with TI > 3.7° and AVR > 5.8° found to be important thresholds. Cobb angle acts as a poor predictor in mild curves, and more investigations are required to assess thoracic kyphosis and wedging as predictors. Cumulative reconstruction of radiographs improves prediction accuracy. Comprehensive analysis between progressive and non-progressive curves is recommended to extract meaningful thresholds for clinical prognostication. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(3):243–251

Aims. Ilium is the most common site of pelvic Ewing’s sarcoma (ES). Resection of the ilium and iliosacral joint causes pelvic disruption. However, the outcomes of resection and reconstruction are not well described. In this study, we report patients’ outcomes after resection of the ilium and iliosacral ES and reconstruction with a tibial strut allograft. Methods. Medical files of 43 patients with ilium and iliosacral ES who underwent surgical resection and reconstruction with a tibial strut allograft between January 2010 and October 2021 were reviewed. The lesions were classified into four resection zones: I. 1. , I. 2. , I. 3. , and I. 4. , based on the extent of resection. Functional outcomes, oncological outcomes, and surgical complications for each resection zone were of interest. Functional outcomes were assessed using a Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score and Toronto Extremity Salvage Score (TESS). Results. The mean age of the patients was 17 years (SD 9.1). At a mean follow-up of 70.8 months (SD 50), the mean functional outcomes were 24.2 points (SD 6.3) for MSTS and 81 points (SD 11) for TESS. The mean MSTS and TESS scores were associated with the iliac resection zone (< 0.001). Nine patients (20.9%) had local recurrence. The recurrence was not associated with the zone of iliac resection (p = 0.324). The two-year disease-free survival of the patients was 69.4%. The mean time to graft union was longer in patients with the I. 4. resection zone (p < 0.001). The complication rate was 34.9%, and nerve palsy (11.6%) was the most common. The rate of surgical complications was not associated with the resection zone. Conclusion. Reconstruction using tibial strut allograft is an efficient procedure after the resection of the ilium and iliosacral ES. Functional outcomes and complications of iliac ES depend on the resection zone, and inferior outcomes could be generally expected when more segments of the pelvic ring are resected, even if it is reconstructed. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(5):385–393

Abstract. Introduction. Historic MCL reconstruction techniques focused on the superficial MCL to restore valgus stability while overlooking tibial external rotation and the deep MCL. This study assessed the ability of a contemporary medial collateral ligament (MCL) reconstruction and a deep MCL (dMCL) reconstruction to restore rotational and valgus knee stability. Methods. Six pairs fresh-frozen cadaveric knee specimens with intact soft tissue were tested in four states: 1) intact 2) after sMCL and dMCL sectioning, 3) contemporary MCL reconstruction (LaPrade et al), and 4) dMCL reconstruction. In each state, four loading conditions were applied at varying flexion angles: 8Nm valgus torque, 5Nm tibial external rotation torque, 90N anterior drawer, and combined 90N anterior drawer plus 5Nm tibial external rotation torque. Results. Transection of the sMCL and dMCL resulted in increased laxity with valgus torque, external rotation torque, and combined anterior drawer plus external rotation. dMCL reconstruction restored external rotation stability to intact levels throughout all degrees of flexion but did not restore valgus stability at any flexion angle. Contemporary MCL reconstruction restored valgus and external rotation stability at 0° and 20° and valgus stability at 40°. In the combined anterior drawer plus tibial external rotation trial, the dMCL restored stability at 20° and improved stability between 40° and 90° flexion. Conversely, the contemporary MCL reconstruction did not restore stability at any degree of flexion. Conclusion. Deep MCL reconstruction restored rotational stability to the knee throughout range of motion but not valgus stability. The contemporary MCL reconstruction restored stability only near full extension

Aims. The sacroiliac joint (SIJ) is the only mechanical connection between the axial skeleton and lower limbs. Following iliosacral resection, there is debate on whether reconstruction of the joint is necessary. There is a paucity of data comparing the outcomes of patients undergoing reconstruction and those who are not formally reconstructed. Methods. A total of 60 patients (25 females, 35 males; mean age 39 years (SD 18)) undergoing iliosacral resection were reviewed. Most resections were performed for primary malignant tumours (n = 54; 90%). The mean follow-up for surviving patients was nine years (2 to 19). Results. Overall, 27 patients (45%) were reconstructed, while 33 (55%) had no formal reconstruction. There was no difference in the use of chemotherapy (p = 1.000) or radiotherapy (p = 0.292) between the groups. Patients with no reconstruction had a mean larger tumour (11 cm (SD 5) vs 8 cm (SD 4); p = 0.014), mean shorter operating times (664 mins (SD 195) vs 1,324 mins (SD 381); p = 0.012), and required fewer blood units (8 (SD 7) vs 14 (SD 11); p = 0.012). Patients undergoing a reconstruction were more likely to have a deep infection (48% vs 12%; p = 0.003). Nine reconstructed patients had a hardware failure, with five requiring revision. Postoperatively 55 (92%) patients were ambulatory, with no difference in the proportion of ambulatory patients (89% vs 94%; p = 0.649) or mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society Score (59% vs 65%; p = 0.349) score between patients who did or did not have a reconstruction. The ten-year disease-specific survival was 69%, with no difference between patients who were reconstructed and those who were not (78% vs 45%; p = 0.316). There was no difference in the rate of metastasis between the two groups (hazard ratio (HR) 2.78; p = 0.102). Conclusion. Our results demonstrate that SIJ reconstruction is associated with longer operating times, greater need for blood transfusion, and more postoperative infections, without any improvement in functional outcomes when compared to patients who did not have formal SIJ reconstruction. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(1):93–98

Aims. The ulna is an extremely rare location for primary bone tumours of the elbow in paediatrics. Although several reconstruction options are available, the optimal reconstruction method is still unknown due to the rarity of proximal ulna tumours. In this study, we report the outcomes of osteoarticular ulna allograft for the reconstruction of proximal ulna tumours. Methods. Medical profiles of 13 patients, who between March 2004 and November 2021 underwent osteoarticular ulna allograft reconstruction after the resection of the proximal ulna tumour, were retrospectively reviewed. The outcomes were measured clinically by the assessment of elbow range of motion (ROM), stability, and function, and radiologically by the assessment of allograft-host junction union, recurrence, and joint degeneration. The elbow function was assessed objectively by the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score and subjectively by the Toronto Extremity Salvage Score (TESS) and Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) questionnaire. Results. The mean follow-up of patients was 60.3 months (SD 28.5). The mean elbow flexion-extension ROM was 95.8° (SD 21). The mean MSTS of the patients was 84.4 (SD 8.2), the mean TESS was 83.8 (SD 6.7), and the mean MEPS was 79.2 (SD 11.5). All the patients had radiological union at the osteotomy site. Symptomatic osteoarthritic change was observed in three patients (23%), one of whom ended up with elbow joint fusion. Two patients (15.4%) had recurrence during the follow-up period. Surgical complications included two allograft fractures, two plate fractures, three medial instabilities, and two infections. Conclusion. Osteoarticular ulna allograft reconstruction provides acceptable functional outcomes. Despite a high rate of complications, it is still a valuable reconstruction method, particularly in skeletally immature patients who need their distal humerus physis for the rest of hand growth. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(9):749–757

Bone-patellar tendon-bone autografts, hamstring autografts or allografts are widely used grafts for ACL revision surgeries. Also use of quadriceps autograft for both primary and revision ACL surgeries is in an increasing popularity due to its biomechanical superior properties and less donor site morbidity. However, although several fixation techniques and devices for quadriceps tendon graft fixation on femoral side have been reported, literature lacks about biomechanical studies comparing properties of these different fixation techniques and devices. We aimed to investigate whether there is a difference between the fixation techniques of quadriceps tendon graft by using different fixation techniques and devices on the femoral side in terms of stiffness and amount of slippage in the tunnel. Full-thickness central parts of quadriceps tendons from paired knees of twenty five calf knees were fixed through a 10mm x 25mm tunnel in twenty five paired sheep femurs. Quadriceps tendon patellar side with soft tissue ending fixed with four different fixation devices (adjustable suspensory system (group 1), absorbable interference screw (group 2), titanium interference screw (group 3) and adjustable suspensory system + absorbable interference screw (group 4)) and quadriceps tendon with a patellar bone plug fixed with a titanium interference screw (group 5) were tested in a servohydraulic materials testing machine. 10 samples were included in each group. After applying a preload of 10 N, a cyclic force was applied for 20 cycles from 10N to 110N at a 1 hertz frequency. Amount of slippage in the tunnel was calculated as the difference measured in millimeters between length at 10 N after 20 cycles and starting length at 10 N (Graph 1). To determine the stiffness, a single load-to-failure cycle was performed at a strain rate of 20 mm/min as the last step (Figure 1). Rupture of the graft was not seen in any of the samples. Median values of amount of slippage in the tunnel were 6,41mm, 5,99mm, 3,01mm, 4,83mm, and 3,94mm respectively. Median values of maximum load at failure were 464N, 160N, 350N, 350N and 389N respectively. Amount of slippage in the tunnel was highest in the group 1 and was lowest in the group 3 (p<0.001). Group 1 was found to be most resistant group against load-to-failure test and group 2 was the weakest (p<0.001). However inter-group analyses between group 3 and 5 revealed that, although group 3 had the least slippage in the tunnel, group 5 was better in terms of stiffness, but there was no statistically significant difference (p=0,124 and 0,119 respectively). There was a significant difference between group 2 and 3 in both amount of slippage in the tunnel and stiffness (p=0,001 and 0.028 respectively)(Table 1). Our study revealed that, although quadriceps graft with a bone plug fixed with metal interference screws is widely presumed to be a stable fixation technique, there was no significant difference in terms of stiffness when compared with quadriceps graft with soft tissue ending fixed with a metal interference screw. Although adjustable suspensory device group was the best in the terms of resistance against load-to-failure, it was the worst in terms of amount of slippage from the tunnel. Thus, if a suspensory device is to be used, it must be kept in mind that a strong 20 cycles of intra-operative tension force must be applied to prevent further slippage of the graft in the tunnel which can result in failure of reconstruction. For any figures or tables, please contact the authors directly

Vascularised fibular grafts (VFGs ) are a valuable surgical technique in limb salvage after resection of a tumour. The primary objective of this multicentre study was to assess the risk factors for failure and complications for using a VFG after resection of a tumour. . The study involved 74 consecutive patients (45 men and 29 women with mean age of 23 years (1 to 64) from four tertiary centres for orthopaedic oncology who underwent reconstruction using a VFG after resection of a tumour between 1996 and 2011. There were 52 primary and 22 secondary reconstructions. The mean follow-up was 77 months (10 to 195). . In all, 69 patients (93%) had successful limb salvage; all of these united and 65 (88%) showed hypertrophy of the graft. The mean time to union differed between those involving the upper (28 weeks; 12 to 96) and lower limbs (44 weeks; 12 to 250). Fracture occurred in 11 (15%), and nonunion in 14 (19%) patients. . In 35 patients (47%) at least one complication arose, with a greater proportion in lower limb reconstructions, non-bridging osteosynthesis, and in children. These complications resulted in revision surgery in 26 patients (35%). VFG is a successful and durable technique for reconstruction of a defect in bone after resection of a tumour, but is accompanied by a significant risk of complications, that often require revision surgery. Union was not markedly influenced by the need for chemo- or radiotherapy, but should not be expected during chemotherapy. Therefore, restricted weight-bearing within this period is advocated. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:853–61

Aims. The aims of this study were to determine the success of a reconstruction algorithm used in major acetabular bone loss, and to further define the indications for custom-made implants in major acetabular bone loss. Methods. We reviewed a consecutive series of Paprosky type III acetabular defects treated according to a reconstruction algorithm. IIIA defects were planned to use a superior augment and hemispherical acetabular component. IIIB defects were planned to receive either a hemispherical acetabular component plus augments, a cup-cage reconstruction, or a custom-made implant. We used national digital health records and registry reports to identify any reoperation or re-revision procedure and Oxford Hip Score (OHS) for patient-reported outcomes. Implant survival was determined via Kaplan-Meier analysis. Results. A total of 105 procedures were carried out in 100 patients (five bilateral) with a mean age of 73 years (42 to 94). In the IIIA defects treated, 72.0% (36 of 50) required a porous metal augment; the remaining 14 patients were treated with a hemispherical acetabular component alone. In the IIIB defects, 63.6% (35 of 55) underwent reconstruction as planned with 20 patients who actually required a hemispherical acetabular component alone. At mean follow-up of 7.6 years, survival was 94.3% (95% confidence interval 97.4 to 88.1) for all-cause revision and the overall dislocation rate was 3.8% (4 of 105). There was no difference observed in survival between type IIIA and type IIIB defects and whether a hemispherical implant alone was used for the reconstruction or not. The mean gain in OHS was 16 points. Custom-made implants were only used in six cases, in patients with either a mega-defect in which the anteroposterior diameter > 80 mm, complex pelvic discontinuity, and massive bone loss in a small pelvis. Conclusion. Our findings suggest that a reconstruction algorithm can provide a successful approach to reconstruction in major acetabular bone loss. The use of custom implants has been defined in this series and accounts for < 5% of cases. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(5 Supple B):47–53

Aims. Acute and chronic injuries of the interosseus membrane can result in longitudinal instability of the forearm. Reconstruction of the central band of the interosseus membrane can help to restore biomechanical stability. Different methods have been used to reconstruct the central band, including tendon grafts, bone-ligament-bone grafts, and synthetic grafts. This Idea, Development, Exploration, Assessment, and Long-term (IDEAL) phase 1 study aims to review the clinical results of reconstruction using a synthetic braided cross-linked graft secured at either end with an Endobutton to restore the force balance between the bones of the forearm. Methods. An independent retrospective review was conducted of a consecutive series of 21 patients with longitudinal instability injuries treated with anatomical central band reconstruction between February 2011 and July 2019. Patients with less than 12 months’ follow-up or who were treated acutely were excluded, leaving 18 patients in total. Preoperative clinical and radiological assessments were compared with prospectively gathered data using range of motion and the abbreviated version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (QuickDASH) functional outcome score. Results. Of the 18 patients (nine male, nine female) who met the inclusion criteria, the median follow-up was 8.5 years (interquartile range (IQR) 5.6 to 10). Their mean age was 49 years (SD 11). The mean extension improved significantly from 38° (SD 15°) to 24° (SD 9°) (p = 0.027), with a mean flexion-extension arc change from 81° (SD 27°) to 93° (SD 30°) (p = 0.172) but with no forearm rotational improvement (p = 0.233) at latest follow-up. The QuickDASH functional score improved significantly from 80 (SD 14) to 52 (SD 26) following reconstruction (p = 0.031), but generally the level of disability remains high. Radiological assessment showed no progression of proximal migration of the radius, with a stable interbutton distance and ulnar variance from immediate postoperative radiograph to the latest follow-up. Conclusion. Central band interosseus membrane reconstruction using a synthetic braided cross-linked graft can improve patient-rated arm function and range of motion, but significant functional deficits remain in patients with chronic injuries. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(2):182–188

Rates of prosthetic joint infection in megaprostheses are high. The application of silver ion coating to implants serves as a deterrent to infection and biofilm formation. A retrospective review was performed of all silver-coated MUTARS endoprosthetic reconstructions (SC-EPR) by a single Orthopaedic Oncology Surgeon. We examined the rate of component revision due to infection and the rate of infection successfully treated with antibiotic therapy. We reviewed overall revision rates, sub-categorised into the Henderson groupings for endoprosthesis modes of failure (Type 1 soft tissue failure, Type 2 aseptic loosening, Type 3 Structural failure, Type 4 Infection, Type 5 tumour progression). 283 silver-coated MUTARS endoprosthetic reconstructions were performed for 229 patients from October 2012 to July 2022. The average age at time of surgery was 58.9 years and 53% of our cohort were males. 154 (71.3%) patients underwent SC-EPR for oncological reconstruction and 32 (14.8%) for reconstruction for bone loss following prosthetic joint infection(s). Proximal femur SC-EPR (82) and distal femur (90) were the most common procedures. This cohort had an overall revision rate of 21.2% (60/283 cases). Component revisions were most commonly due to Type 4 infection (19 cases), Type 2 aseptic loosening/culture negative disease (15 cases), and Type 1 dislocation/soft tissue (12 cases). Component revision rate for infection was 6.7% (19 cases). 15 underwent exchange of implants and 4 underwent transfemoral amputation due to recalcitrant infection and failure of soft tissue coverage. This equates to a limb salvage rate of 98.3%. The most common causative organisms remain staphylococcus species (47%) and polymicrobial infections (40%). We expand on the existing literature advocating for the use of silver-coated endoprosthetic reconstructions. We provide insights from the vast experience of a single surgeon when addressing patients with oncological and bone loss-related complex reconstruction problems

Aims. The aim of this study was to estimate the incremental use of resources, costs, and quality of life outcomes associated with surgical reconstruction compared to rehabilitation for long-standing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in the NHS, and to estimate its cost-effectiveness. Methods. A total of 316 patients were recruited and randomly assigned to either surgical reconstruction or rehabilitation (physiotherapy but with subsequent reconstruction permitted if instability persisted after treatment). Healthcare resource use and health-related quality of life data (EuroQol five-dimension five-level health questionnaire) were collected in the trial at six, 12, and 18 months using self-reported questionnaires and medical records. Using intention-to-treat analysis, differences in costs, and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) between treatment arms were estimated adjusting for baseline differences and following multiple imputation of missing data. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was estimated as the difference in costs divided by the difference in QALYs between reconstruction and rehabilitation. Results. At 18 months, patients in the surgical reconstruction arm reported higher QALYs (0.052 (95% confidence interval (CI) -0.012 to 0.117); p = 0.177) and higher NHS costs (£1,017 (95% CI 557 to 1,476); p < 0.001) compared to rehabilitation. This resulted in an ICER of £19,346 per QALY with the probability of surgical reconstruction being cost-effective of 51% and 72% at a willingness-to-pay threshold of £20,000 and £30,000 per QALY, respectively. Conclusion. Surgical reconstruction as a management strategy for patients with long-standing ACL injury is more effective, but more expensive, at 18 months compared to rehabilitation management. In the UK setting, surgical reconstruction is cost-effective. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(1):38–45

Aims. The aim of this study was to establish a reliable method for producing 3D reconstruction of sonographic callus. Methods. A cohort of ten closed tibial shaft fractures managed with intramedullary nailing underwent ultrasound scanning at two, six, and 12 weeks post-surgery. Ultrasound capture was performed using infrared tracking technology to map each image to a 3D lattice. Using echo intensity, semi-automated mapping was performed to produce an anatomical 3D representation of the fracture site. Two reviewers independently performed 3D reconstructions and kappa coefficient was used to determine agreement. A further validation study was undertaken with ten reviewers to estimate the clinical application of this imaging technique using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Results. Nine of the ten patients achieved union at six months. At six weeks, seven patients had bridging callus of ≥ one cortex on the 3D reconstruction and when present all achieved union. Compared to six-week radiographs, no bridging callus was present in any patient. Of the three patients lacking sonographic bridging callus, one went onto a nonunion (77.8% sensitive and 100% specific to predict union). At 12 weeks, nine patients had bridging callus at ≥ one cortex on 3D reconstruction (100%-sensitive and 100%-specific to predict union). Presence of sonographic bridging callus on 3D reconstruction demonstrated excellent reviewer agreement on ICC at 0.87 (95% confidence interval 0.74 to 0.96). Conclusion. 3D fracture reconstruction can be created using multiple ultrasound images in order to evaluate the presence of bridging callus. This imaging modality has the potential to enhance the usability and accuracy of identification of early fracture healing. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2021;10(12):759–766

Aims. Reconstruction after osteoarticular resection of the proximal ulna for tumours is technically difficult and little has been written about the options that are available. We report a series of four patients who underwent radial neck to humeral trochlea transposition arthroplasty following proximal ulnar osteoarticular resection. Methods. Between July 2020 and July 2022, four patients with primary bone tumours of the ulna underwent radial neck to humeral trochlea transposition arthroplasty. Their mean age was 28 years (12 to 41). The functional outcome was assessed using the range of motion (ROM) of the elbow, rotation of the forearm and stability of the elbow, the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score (MSTS), and the nine-item abbreviated version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (QuickDASH-9) score. Results. All patients were available for follow-up at a mean of 33 months (25 to 43) and were disease-free. The mean flexion arc was 0° to 105°. Three patients had complications. One had neuropraxia of the ulnar nerve. The symptoms resolved after three months. In one patient, the screw used for fixation of the triceps tendon became exposed and was removed, six months postoperatively. One patient with wound dehiscence required a local flap for soft-tissue cover, four months postoperatively. At a mean follow-up of 33 months (25 to 43), the mean flexion arc was 0° to 105°. All patients had full supination (85°) but none had any pronation. The mean MSTS score was 23.5 (23 to 24) and mean QuickDASH-9 score was 26.13 (16.5 to 35.75). Three patients had varus-valgus instability on examination, although only one had a sense of instability while working. Conclusion. Radial neck to humeral trochlea transposition offers a satisfactory and cost-effective biological reconstructive option after osteoarticular resection of the proximal ulna, in the short term. It provides good elbow function and, being a biological reconstruction option using native bone, is likely to provide long-term stability and durability. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(11):1301–1305

Abstract. Introduction. We present a case series of patients that underwent knee ligament reconstruction with graft reinforcement using FibreTape (Arthrex), a 2mm wide non-biodegradable polyethylene tape. Outcomes and safety of this novel technique are reported. Methods. Data were collected from a prospectively maintained database from 03/2011 to 11/2019. All skeletally mature patients that underwent reinforced knee ligament reconstruction surgery at Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital were included. The cohort was interrogated for outcomes including failure, complications, and subjective patient reported outcomes at 6,12 and 24 months postoperatively. Results. 438 patients were eligible. The mean age was 33.4 years and 68% of them were males. This included 171 ACL reconstructions, 96 ACL with anterolatreal ligament reconstructions, 59 bicruciate reconstructions, 30 ACL with posterolateral corner, 49 posterior cruciate ligament with one other ligament and 33 other ligament reconstruction. Allograft was used for 125 patients. 338 cases related to primary reconstruction. The overall complication rate was 5.3%, with a 2.1% re-rupture rate. There were 9 patients with a re-rupture and 5 of them had undergone multiligament reconstruction. We found a statistically significant improvement in all subjective scoring indices post-operatively up to 2 years. There were no complications directly related to the use of ligament reinforcement. Conclusion. Graft reinforcement is a safe option in the management of knee ligament injuries. Encouraging results were observed in patient reported outcomes. Reinforcement is technically reproducible and may represent an answer for graft failure rates, especially in multiligament reconstructions. Further application and evaluation is necessary to confirm its benefit

Aims. Surgical reconstruction of deformed Charcot feet carries a high risk of nonunion, metalwork failure, and deformity recurrence. The primary aim of this study was to identify the factors contributing to these complications following hindfoot Charcot reconstructions. Methods. We retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent hindfoot Charcot reconstruction with an intramedullary nail between January 2007 and December 2019 in our unit. Patient demographic details, comorbidities, weightbearing status, and postoperative complications were noted. Metalwork breakage, nonunion, deformity recurrence, concurrent midfoot reconstruction, and the measurements related to intramedullary nail were also recorded. Results. There were 70 patients with mean follow-up of 54 months (SD 26). Overall, 51 patients (72%) and 52 patients (74%) were fully weightbearing at one year postoperatively and at final follow-up, respectively. The overall hindfoot union rate was 83% (58/70 patients). Age, BMI, glycated haemoglobin, and prior revascularization did not affect union. The ratio of nail diameter and isthmus was greater in the united compared to the nonunited group (0.90 (SD 0.06) and 0.86 (SD 0.09), respectively; p = 0.034). In those with a supplementary hindfoot compression screw, there was a 95% union rate (19/20 patients), compared to 78% in those without screws (39/50 patients; p = 0.038). All patients with a miss-a-nail hindfoot compression screw went on to union. Hindfoot metalwork failure was seen in 13 patients (19%). An intact medial malleolus was found more frequently in those with intact metalwork ((77% (44/57 patients) vs 54% (7/13 patients); p = 0.022) and in those with union ((76% (44/58 patients) vs 50% (6/12 patients); p = 0.018). Broken metalwork occurred more frequently in patients with nonunions (69% (9/13 patients) vs 9% (5/57 patients); p < 0.001) and midfoot deformity recurrence (69% (9/13 patients) vs 9% (5/57 patients); p < 0.001). Conclusion. Rates of hindfoot union and intact metalwork were noted in over 80% of patients. Union after hindfoot reconstruction occurs more frequently with an isthmic fit of the intramedullary nail and supplementary hindfoot screws. An intact medial malleolus is protective against nonunion and hindfoot metalwork failure. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(6):703–708

Pelvic discontinuity is a separation through the acetabulum with the ilium displacing superiorly and the ischium/pubis displacing inferiorly. This is a biomechanically challenging environment with a high rate of failure for standard acetabular components. The cup-cage reconstruction involves the use of a highly porous metal cup to achieve biological bone ingrowth on both sides of the pelvic discontinuity and an ilioischial cage to provide secure fixation across the discontinuity and bring the articulating hip center to the correct level. The purpose of this study was to report long term follow up of the use of the cup-cage to treat pelvic discontinuity. All hip revision procedures between January 2003 and January 2022 where a cup-cage was used for a hip with a pelvic discontinuity were included in this retrospective review. All patients received a Trabecular Metal Revision Shell with either a ZCA cage or TMARS cage (Zimmer-Biomet Inc.). Pelvic discontinuity was diagnosed on pre-operative radiographs and/or intraoperatively. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed with failure defined as revision of the cup-cage reconstruction. Fifty-seven cup-cages in 56 patients were included with an average follow-up of 6.25 years (0.10 to 19.98 years). The average age of patients was 72.09 years (43 to 92 years) and 70.2% of patients were female. The five year Kaplan-Meier survival was 92.0% (95% CI 84.55 to 99.45) and the ten year survival was 80.5% (95% CI 58.35 to 102.65). There were 5 major complications that required revision of the cup-cage reconstruction (3 infections and 2 mechanical failures). There were 9 complications that required re-operation without revision of the cup-cage reconstruction (5 dislocations, 3 washouts for infection and one femoral revision for aseptic loosening). In our hands the cup-cage reconstruction has provided a reliable tool to address pelvic discontinuity with an acceptable complication rate

Introduction. Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN) of foot and ankle presents significant challenges to the orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeon. Current treatment focuses on conservative management during the acute CN phase with offloading followed by deformity correction during the chronic phase. However, the deformity can progress in some feet despite optimal offloading resulting ulceration, infection, and limb loss. Our aim was to assess outcomes of primary surgical management with early reconstruction. Methods. Between December 2011 and December 2019, 25 patients underwent operative intervention at our specialist diabetic foot unit for CN with progressive deformity and or instability despite advanced offloading. All had peripheral neuropathy, and the majority due to diabetes. Twenty-six feet were operated on in total - 14 during Eichenholtz stage 1 and 12 during stage 2. Fourteen of these were performed as single stage procedures, whereas 12 as two-stage reconstructions. These included isolated hindfoot reconstructions in seven, midfoot in four and combined in 14 feet. Mean age at the time of operation was 54. Preoperative ulceration was evident in 14 patients. Results. Mean follow up was 45 months (Range 12–98). There was 100% limb salvage. One-year ambulation outcomes demonstrate FWB in bespoke footwear for 17 patients and in an ankle foot orthosis (AFO), Charcot restraint orthopaedic walker (CROW) or bivalve cast for seven. All preoperative ulceration had healed. Union was achieved in 18/21 hindfoot reconstructions and 7/18 midfoot reconstructions. There were nine episodes of return to theatre, of which five were within the first 12 months. There was one episode of new ulceration. Conclusion. Surgical management of acute CN (Eichenholtz one and two) of the foot provides functional limb salvage. In particular, hindfoot reconstruction shows good rates of bony union. It should be considered in ‘foot at risk’ presentations of acute CN foot

Progressive collapsing foot deformity (PCFD) is a common condition with an estimated prevalence of 3.3% in women greater than 40 years. Progressive in nature, symptomatic flatfoot deformity can be a debilitating condition due to pain and limited physical function; it has been shown to have one of the poorest preoperative patient reported outcome scores in foot and ankle pathologies, second to ankle arthritis. Operative reconstruction of PCFD can be performed in a single-stage manner or through multiple stages. The purpose of this study is to compare costs for non-staged (NS) flatfoot reconstructions, which typically require longer hospital stays, with costs for staged (S) reconstructions, where patients usually do not require hospital admission. To our knowledge, the comparison between single-staged and multi-staged flatfoot reconstructions has not been previously done. This study will run in conjunction with one that compares rates of complications and reoperation, as well as patient reported outcomes on function and pain associated with S and NS flatfoot reconstruction. Overall, the goal is to optimize surgical management of PCFD, by addressing healthcare costs and patient outcomes. At our academic centre with foot and ankle specialists, we selected one surgeon who primarily performs NS flatfoot reconstruction and another who primarily performs S procedures. Retrospective chart reviews of patients who have undergone either S or NS flatfoot reconstruction were performed from November 2011 to August 2021. Length of operating time, number of primary surgeries, length of hospital admission, and number of reoperations were recorded. Cost analysis was performed using local health authority patient rates for non residents as a proxy for health system costs. Rates of operating room per hour and hospital ward stay per diem in Canadian dollars were used. The analysis is currently ongoing. 72 feet from 66 patients were analyzed in the S group while 78 feet from 70 patients were analyzed in the NS group. The average age in the S and NS group are 49.64 +/− 1.76 and 57.23 +/− 1.68 years, respectively. The percentage of female patients in the S and NS group are 63.89% and 57.69%, respectively. All NS patients stayed in hospital post-operatively and the average length of stay for NS patients is 3.65 +/− 0.37 days. Only 10 patients from S group required hospital admission. The average total operating room cost including all stages for S patients was $12,303.12 +/− $582.20. When including in-patient ward costs for patients who required admission from S group, the average cost for operating room and in-patient ward admission was $14,196.00 +/− $1,070.01 after flatfoot reconstruction. The average in-patient ward admission cost for NS patients was $14,518.83 +/− $1,476.94 after flatfoot reconstruction. The cost analysis for total operating room costs for NS patients are currently ongoing. Statistical analysis comparing S to NS flatfoot reconstruction costs are pending. Preliminary cost analysis suggests that multi-staged flatfoot reconstruction costs less than single-staged flatfoot reconstruction. Once full assessment is complete with statistical analysis, correlation with patient reported outcomes and complication rate can guide future PCFD surgical management

Introduction. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) has gained momentum in the orthopaedic literature. The GOAL-LD (Gait Outcomes Assessment List for Limb Deformity) incorporates the framework of The WHO International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health and correlates highly with the Paediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument (PODCI) when applied in a limb reconstruction setting. The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Australia, supported by The University of Melbourne is designing and implementing a Limb Reconstruction Registry, prospectively enrolling patients with a number of key conditions and provide a mechanism for capturing surgical data and PROMs at regular follow-up intervals. LimbDREAM (The Limb Reconstruction Registry of Experience, Aspiration and Measures) has begun recruiting participants, and this paper serves as a narrative review of our design and implementation process. Materials & Methods. After provision of a research grant, audit was conducted to examine local case mix and estimate recruitment based on conditions selected. Literature review was focussed on (i) registries in the paediatric limb reconstruction domain and (ii) use of PROMs across conditions selected. A high-level process-flow chart was constructed in order to inform governance and staffing requirements in addition to REDCap Database structure. Local as well as scalable deployment was considered. Alpha and beta testing was performed by principal and associate investigators prior to participant recruitment. Results. Audit identified 6 condition streams for inclusion: Congenital limb deficiencies, congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia, bone dysplasias, bone tumours, amputation, and complex deformity of other etiology. Literature review identified 20 PROMs used across these conditions, with limited validation studies and significant implementation heterogeneity. REDCap database design took longer than anticipated (planned 10 months, actual 18 months) before being recruitment ready, due to the complexity of ensuring data collection logic would work across highly diverse patient journeys. Initial recruitment across all streams has been promising. Email and text message reminders have proved helpful in increasing survey return rates. Conclusions. Prospective collection of PROMs as well as surgical data via a standardized dataset will provide the basis for future condition-specific research, with the ability to support nested trials. Implementation requires forethought with regard to time frames and staffing for non-automated steps as well as data integrity review. The next phase of the LimbDREAM project will be to integrate use of the Registry into our weekly Limb Reconstruction Meeting to ensure that operative plans and data are captured close to the point of care

Aims. Patients undergoing limb reconstruction surgery often face a challenging and lengthy process to complete their treatment journey. The majority of existing outcome measures do not adequately capture the patient-reported outcomes relevant to this patient group in a single measure. Following a previous systematic review, the Stanmore Limb Reconstruction Score (SLRS) was designed with the intent to address this need for an effective instrument to measure patient-reported outcomes in limb reconstruction patients. We aim to assess the face validity of this score in a pilot study. Methods. The SLRS was designed following structured interviews with several groups including patients who have undergone limb reconstruction surgery, limb reconstruction surgeons, specialist nurses, and physiotherapists. This has subsequently undergone further adjustment for language and clarity. The score was then trialled on ten patients who had undergone limb reconstruction surgery, with subsequent structured questioning to understand the perceived suitability of the score. Results. Ten patients completed the score and the subsequent structured interview. Considering the tool as a whole, 100% of respondents felt the score to be comprehensible, relevant, and comprehensive regarding the areas that were important to a patient undergoing limb reconstruction surgery. For individual questions, on a five-point Likert scale, importance/relevance was reported as a mean of 4.78 (4.3 to 5.0), with ability to understand rated as 4.92 (4.7 to 5.0) suggesting high levels of relevance and comprehension. Flesch-Kincaid reading grade level was calculated as 5.2 (10 to 11 years old). Conclusion. The current SLRS has been shown to have acceptable scores from a patient sample regarding relevance, comprehensibility, and comprehensiveness. This suggests face validity, however further testing required and is ongoing in a larger cohort of patients to determine the reliability, responsiveness, precision, and criterion validity of the score in this patient group. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(9):705–709