Introduction

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries represent a significant burden of disease to the orthopaedic surgeon and often necessitate surgical reconstruction in the presence of instability. The hamstring graft has traditionally been used to reconstruct the ACL but the quadriceps tendon (QT) graft has gained popularity due to its relatively low donor site morbidity.

Background

Establishing the diagnosis in a child presenting with an atraumatic limp can be difficult. Clinical prediction algorithms have been devised to distinguish septic arthritis (SA) from transient synovitis (TS). Within Europe measurement of the Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) has largely been replaced with assessment of C-Reactive Protein (CRP) as an acute phase protein. We produce a prediction algorithm to determine the significance of CRP in distinguishing between TS and SA.

Background

Establishing the diagnosis in a child presenting with an atraumatic limp can be challenging. There is particular difficulty distinguishing septic arthritis (SA) from transient synovitis (TS) and consequently clinical prediction algorithms have been devised to differentiate the conditions using the presence of fever, raised erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), raised white cell count (WCC) and inability to weight bear. Within Europe measurement of the ESR has largely been replaced with assessment of C-reactive protein (CRP) as an acute phase protein. We have evaluated the utility of including CRP in a clinical prediction algorithm to distinguish TS from SA.

Abduction braces are commonly prescribed following the closed reduction of a dislocated prosthetic hip joint. Their use is controversial with limited evidence to support their use. We have conducted a retrospective review of dislocations in primary total hip replacements over a nine year period and report redislocation rates in patients braced, compared to those who were not. 67 patients were identified. 69% of those patients who were braced had a subsequent dislocation. Likewise 69% of those who did not receive a brace re-dislocated. 33% of patients that were braced dislocated whilst wearing the brace. Bracing was associated with patient discomfort, sleep disturbance, skin irritation and breakdown. Small femoral head size, monoblock femoral components and poor biomechanical reconstruction was prevalent amongst dislocators. Abduction bracing following closed reduction of a total hip replacement is costly(e950), does not prevent redislocation and may be the cause of considerable morbidity to the patient.

Introduction: An audit was undertaken to quantify patient satisfaction in the Orthopaedic Outpatient setting.

Materials and Methods: A 16 point questionnaire on a Likert scale of 1 to 5 was used. 216 consecutive questionnaires were distributed to patients attending the elective orthopaedic clinic during a three week period. The questionnaire collected details of sex, age, the grade of the health professional primarily assessing the patient in the clinic, administration of the appointment, welcome by reception staff, waiting room facilities, 7 questions pertaining to the care provided by the health professional primarily assessing the patient, 1 question regarding nurses and 2 regarding the overall service.

Results: Completed data was available only from 178 respondents (82.4%). There were 109 females and 69 males. 13 patients were under 20, 34 between 20 to 39, 61 between 40 to 60 and 70 over 60. 105 patients were seen by the Consultant, 49 by the Registrar, 14 by the Senior House Officer, 8 by a Physio Practitioner and 2 by an Associate Specialist. The mean score for questions 7 to 13 that pertained to the consultation with the health professional showed the following results. Associate Specialist 5.00, SHO 4.74, Consultant 4.70, Physio 4.68 and Registrar 4.63. The differences were not significant (P=0.017).

Conclusions: Our results show that patients are satisfied by being assessed even by Senior House Officers as long as normal NHS work practices are complied with.

Conflicts of Interest: None

Source of Funding: None

Abduction braces are commonly prescribed following the closed reduction of a dislocated prosthetic hip joint. Their use is controversial with limited evidence to support their use. We have conducted a retrospective review of dislocations in primary total hip replacements over a nine year period and report redislocation rates in patients braced, compared to those who were not. 67 patients were identified. 69% of those patients who were braced had a subsequent dislocation. Likewise 69% of those who did not receive a brace re-dislocated. 33% of patients that were braced dislocated whilst wearing the brace. Bracing was associated with patient discomfort, sleep disturbance, skin irritation and breakdown. Small femoral head size, monoblock femoral components and poor biomechanical reconstruction was prevalent amongst dislocators. Abduction bracing following closed reduction of a total hip replacement does not prevent redislocation and may be the cause of considerable morbidity to the patient.

Introduction: The JRI Furlong HAC LOL hemiarthroplasty stem has shown increased periprosthetic fracture rates compared to previous literature (15.2% vs 7.4%) [1,2,3]. This study seeks to identify a measurable radiographic index, the Metaphyseal-Diaphyseal Index (MDI) score to determine whether intra-operative fracture in osteoporotic bone can be predicted to influence the type of prosthesis used (cemented or uncemented).

Methodology: A 5 year prospective cohort of 560 consecutive patients underwent hemiarthroplasty (cemented or uncemented). A nested case-control study to determine risk factors affecting intra-operative fracture was carried out.

Clinical outcomes and radiographic analysis was performed. The Vancouver Classification was used to classify periprosthetic fracture.

The MDI score was calculated using radiographs, as a control (gold standard), Yeung’s CBR score was calculated [4]. See Figure 1. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was formulated for both and area under the curve (AUC) compared. Intra and inter-observer correlations were determined.

Cost analysis was also worked out.

Results: 407 uncemented and 153 cemented stems were implanted. The use of uncemented implants was the main risk factor for intra-operative periprosthetic fracture.

62 periprosthetic fractures occurred in the uncemented group (15.2%), 9 in the cemented group (5.9%), p< 0.001. The revision rate for sustaining a periprosthetic fracture (uncemented group) was 17.7%, p< 0.001 and 90 day mortality 19.7%, p< 0.03.

MDI’s AUC was 0.985 compared to CBR’s 0.948, p< 0.001. See Figure 2. The MDI score cut-off to predict fracture was 21, sensitivity 98.3%, specificity 99.8%, PPV 90.5%, NPV 98%. ANCOVA ruled out any other confounding factors as being significant.

The intra and inter-observer Pearson correlation scores were r=0.99, p< 0.001.

The total extra cost due to the intra-operative fractures was £93,780.

Discussion: The MDI score is a useful, cost effective way of preventing this serious complication from occurring. We recommend that any femur scoring 21 or less on the MDI score be considered for cemented hemiarthroplasty.

Level of evidence: Level 2 Diagnostic Study: Development of diagnostic criteria on basis of consecutive patients (with universally applied reference “gold” standard).

Introduction: The JRI Furlong HAC LOL hemiarthroplasty stem has shown increased periprosthetic fracture rates compared to previous literature(15.2% vs 7.4%). This study will seek to identify a measurable radiographic index, the Metaphyseal-Diaphyseal Index (MDI) score to determine whether intra-operative fracture in osteoporotic bone can be predicted to influence the type of prosthesis used (cemented or uncemented).

Methodology: Over 5 years prospectively, a cohort of 560 consecutive patients undergoing hemiarthroplasty (cemented and uncemented) were evaluated. Clinical outcomes and radiographic analysis was performed. The Vancouver Classification was used to classify peri-prosthetic fracture. The MDI score was calculated using radiographs from the uncemented group. As a control (gold standard), Yeung et al’s CBR score was also calculated. From this, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was formulated for both scores and area under the curve (AUC) compared. Intra and inter-observer correlations were determined. Cost analysis was also worked out for adverse outcomes.

Results: 407 uncemented and 153 cemented stems were implanted. 62 periprosthetic fractures occurred in the uncemented group (15.2%), 9 occurred in the cemented group (5.9%), p< 0.001. The revision rate for sustaining a periprosthetic fracture (uncemented group) was 17.7%, p< 0.001. MDI’s AUC was 0.985 compared to CBR’s 0.948, p< 0.001. The MDI score cut-off to predict fracture was 21, sensitivity 98.3%, specificity 99.8%, positive predictive value 90.5% and negative predictive value 98%. ANCOVA analysis ruled out any other confounding factors as being significant. The intra and inter-observer Pearson correlation scores were r=0.99, p< 0.001. The total extra cost due to the intra-operative fractures was ú40,140.

Discussion: The MDI score has been shown to be a potentially useful, cost effective way of preventing this serious complication from occurring. We recommend that any femur scoring 21 or less on the MDI score be considered for cemented hemiarthroplasty. Level of evidence: Level 2 Diagnostic Study: Investigating a diagnostic test against gold standard.

One of the most important factors on which Total Knee Replacements results depend is accuracy of restoration of normal mechanical axis. It is believed that computer navigated TKR give better implants position therefore should improve long term results. We decided to check if computer navigation actually improves restoration of mechanical axis and implants placement in a single surgeon, single implant type series. We prospectively assessed 58 patients (60 knees). Each group (navigated versus non navigated) consisted of 30 knees. Patients were assessed clinically and radiographically using weight bearing full-length AP and short lateral films (PACS and IMPAX software). Clinical Results at 2 years were comparable in both groups (89% vs. 88% good or excellent result). Radiological results proved to be better in navigated knees regarding mechanical axis. There were no statistically important differences in other radiological parameters.

Twenty-two patients who underwent thirty-four Kellers’ excision arthroplasty were followed up at an average of thirty-five months. They were assessed using AFAOS, satisfaction and radiological evaluation. The average hallux score was eighty- five (fifty-two to one hundred) while the average lesser toe score was ninety- two (seventy-five to one hundred). The average pain score was thirty- six (twenty to forty) for the hallux and thirty-eight for the lesser toes (twenty to forty). 23/34(68%) had good to excellent, 6/34 (18%) had fair and 5/34(14%) had poor results. The great toe was moderately short, but most patients do not seem to mind this. 91% patients were satisfied with the results.

We undertook a retrospective study of Kellers’ excision arthroplasty done over the last seven years to assess the medium term results.

Twenty-two patients who underwent thirty- four Kellers’ excision arthroplasty were followed up at an average of thirty-five months. They were followed up using the AFAOS, patient satisfaction and radiological evaluation. The average age at the time of surgery was 67.4 years. There were seventeen females (twenty-five feet) and five males (nine feet). All patients underwent bunionectomy along with excision of proximal third of the proximal phalanx. Of these twenty underwent K wire stablization of the hallux following excision.

The average hallux score was eighty- five (range sixty-two to one hundred) while the average lesser toe score was ninety- two (range seventy-five to one hundred). The average pain score was thirty- six (range twenty to forty) for the hallux and thirty-eight for the lesser toes (twenty to forty). 23/34 (68%) had good to excellent, 6/34 (18%) had fair and 5/34(14%) had poor results. The average correction of the hallux valgus was 9o. The average IMT was 25o preoperatively and 18o postoperatively. The average shortening was 7 mm. Complications included two cases of transfer metatarsalgia and two cases of clawing of the lesser toes. One patient developed abscess which settled after incision and drainage. Thirty-one out of thirty-four patients were satis-fied with the final outcome and thirty out of thirty-four patients would have the operation on the other feet.

The great toe is moderately short, but most patients do not seem to mind this. 91% patients were satisfied with the results.

Purpose of study: Study and prove the benefits and efficacy of the use of extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT)for the treatment of planter fasciitis.

Introduction: Planter fasciitis is the second most common cause of heel pain. Conservative treatment modalities for the treatment of planter fasciitis includes NSAIDS, heel cushions, ultrasound, physiotherapy, injections, etc and these often do not offer satisfactory results. We present the results of the use of ESWT in the treatment of planter fasciitis with good results.

Methodology: 129 patients, 77 males and 52 females with a 152 heels were treated with ESWT from July 2002 until August 2004 and were included in the study. The average age was 53.2 years (Range 28 to 83 years). All patients had previously undergone other conservative forms of treatment with poor results. Inclusion criteria included age greater than 18 years, male or female, no previous history of surgery on the heel or foot, visual analogue score of over 5 for pain. Treatment was done on an outpatients basis. Each patient received between minimum of one and maximum of three sessions of ESWT at two weeks interval.

Results: 116 patients, 69 males and 47 females with 136 heels were reviewed with 13 patients with 16 heels lost to followup. 52 patients (44.8%) with 60 heels (44.1%) had excellent results. 45 patients (38.8%) with 53 heels (38.0%) had good results. 13 patients (11.2%) with 16 heels (11.8%) had fair results. 6 patients (5.2%) with 7 heels (5.1%) had poor results. Overall 104 patients (89.7%) with a 121 heels (89.0%) considered the outcome to be successful.

Conclusion: Based on our results, we recommend ESWT fot the treatment of planter fasciitis especially in patients with failed other forms of conservative treatment and as an alternative to surgery with good results.

Introduction Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is important in non-invasive evaluation of osseous and soft-tissue structures in the post-traumatic knee. However, it is sometimes impossible to determine if a focus of high signal intensity in the meniscus is confined to the substance, or extends to involve the joint surface. This is a critical differentiation as the latter represents menisci tears that can be found and treated arthroscopically, whereas the former represents degradation, intra-substance tears or normal variants not amenable to arthroscopic intervention.

The aim of this study was to investigate occurrence of altered signal intensity in the posterior horn of the medial meniscus and correlate with arthroscopic findings.

Materials and Methods 64 patients with suspected post-traumatic internal derangement of the knee who underwent MRI prior to arthroscopy were evaluated. All patients initially had MR imaging of the symptomatic knee using a standard protocol in a Siemens Symphony 1.5 Tesle Magnetom. MR images were then interpreted and reported by 2 radiologists experienced in MR and skeletal radiology. Meniscal tears were graded according to the system validated by Lotysch. A Grade 3 signal was considered unequivocal evidence of a meniscal tear. Equivocal tears (Grade 2/3 signal) were diagnosed if it was unclear if there was a small portion of normal intact meniscal tissue between a linear high signal in the meniscus and the articular surface abutting the meniscus.

Arthroscopy was subsequently performed by senior surgeons aware of the MR findings within 2 weeks of imaging.

Patients were re-assessed clinically and evaluated functionally at a mean follow-up time of 5 months. Radiographic, arthroscopic and clinical results were then correlated and evaluated.

Results There were 48 males and 16 females in the group, with a mean age of 28.2 years.. Tears of the posterior horn of the medial meniscus were reported on MRI unequivocally (Grade 3 signal) in 18 patients and equivocally (Grade 2/3 signal) in 10 patients. Subsequent arthroscopic correlation revealed 16 tears (89%) in the unequivocal group and only one tear (10%) in the equivocal group.

Discusion The finding that only 10% of patients with an equivocal tear in the posterior horn of the medial meniscus on MRI were subsequently found to have a tear on arthroscopy would suggest that early arthroscopic intervention is not warranted in these cases. We suggest that unless symptoms persist over the course of 3 to 6 months, or if a more compelling symptom complex develops, only then should arthroscopic evaluation be considered.

Conclusion Equivocal tears on MRI of the posterior horn of the medial meniscus have a low rate of arthroscopically detected tears and a trial of conservative therapy may be prudent in such cases.

Magnetic resonance imaging has emerged as an important modality in the non-invasive evaluation of osseous and soft-tissue structures in the post-traumatic knee. However, it is sometimes radiologically impossible to determine with confidence if a focus of high signal intensity in the meniscus is confined to the substance of the meniscus or if it extends to involve the joint surface. This is a critical differentiation because the latter represents menisci tears that can be found and treated arthroscopically, whereas the former represents degradation, intrasubstance tears or perhaps normal variants that are not amenable to arthroscopic intervention.

The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of altered signal intensity in the posterior horn of the medial meniscus in correlation with arthroscopic findings.

Sixty-four patients with suspected post-traumatic internal derangement of the knee who underwent magnetic resonance imaging prior to arthroscopy were evaluated retrospectively. There were 48 males and 16 females. Mean age was 28.2 years. Tears of the posterior horn of the medial meniscus were diagnosed unequivocally (Grade 3 signal) in 18 patients and equivocally (Grade 2/3 signal) in 10 patients. Arthroscopic correlation revealed 16 tears (89%) in the unequivocal group and only one tear (10%) in the equivocal group).

A meniscal tear is unlikely when magnetic resonance imaging shows a focus of high signal intensity in the posterior horn of the medial meniscus that does not unequivocally extend to involve the inferior or superior joint surface. An appropriate trial of non-operative treatment is recommended in such questionable cases. Magnetic resonance imaging is a useful diagnostic tool, however, it should be used selectively, and in conjunction with history and clinical examination in evaluating internal derangement of the knee.

In this study, we reviewed the records of 881 patients with fracture neck of femur over 5 years. Of these, 372 patients underwent hemiarthroplasty (231 cemented and 141 uncemented). The aim was to analyse the factors, which may contribute towards the mortality in cemented versus uncemented group.

The mean age in the cemented and uncemented group was 82 and 81 years respectively. 136 (58.8%) patients were operated within 24 hours of admission in the cemented group as compared to 63 (44.6%). The mean operative time was 81minutes for cemented hemiarthroplasty and 61 minutes for uncemented hemiarthroplasty. 77% of the cemented hemiarthroplasty was performed by Registrar grade as compared to 69% in the uncemented group. Of the 231 patients in the cemented group, 52% received general and 48% received spinal anaesthesia. Of the 141 patients in the uncemented group, 30% received general and 70% received spinal anaesthesia.

There was an 8% 30-day mortality compared to 11% 30-day mortality in uncemented group (p< 0.05). The mean age of patients in the mortality group was age 86 yrs in cement and 84 yrs in uncemented group. Most operations were done within 24–48 hours. There was significant co morbidity in patients who died. The average operative time of patients who died in both groups was same.

There was an increased mortality rate in the uncemented group as compared to the cemented group (p< 0.05). Based on our study, we conclude that cement is not a risk factor. Duration and timing of surgery is not associated with increased mortality. There was no difference in 30-day mortality rates between patients receiving general or spinal anaesthesia. Significant co morbid factor is associated with increased mortality.

Material and Methods: In our study the results of a consecutive series of symptomatic non unions of scaphoid fractures treated with Herbert screw and bone graft during period between July 1996 and June 2000 are studied. Out of a total of 66 patients (one bilateral), 61(91.04%) cases who had symptomatic non unions (type D) were treated with Herbert Screw plus iliac crest bone graft while 6(8.95%) cases were treated for acute unstable fractures (type B)with Herbert screw only (these are excluded from the study). The time interval between injury and surgery was 12.2 months (range 2–72 months) Patients were followed up for radiological evidence of union and clinically for range of movement of wrist, grip strength and outcome score. Results:Total No 61, Union 47 (77.1%), Persistent non-union 14 (22.9%). The site of fracture (p=.044), type (p=.028), screw placement (p=.019) were found to be significant factors infl uencing outcome. No statistically significant influence on outcome was found with patient’s age (p=0.983) and also with time interval to non union surgery (p=0.749). Using the scaphoid outcome score, an assessment scale based on pain, occupation, wrist motion, strength and patient satisfaction, functional results were graded as excellent in 19 cases, good in 12 cases, fair in 10 cases and poor in 5 cases. Conclusion: We recommend axial placement of Herbert screw with bone grafting via Russe approach and for difficult proximal pole non unions dorsal approach is recommended.

Introduction: Operative fixation is the mainstay of treatment for displaced ankle fractures. Results however can be variable, with patients complaining of residual pain and stiffness of the ankle joint. In addition, metalwork can be problematic giving rise to symptoms in up to 25% of patients. We undertook a retrospective study to evaluate outcome in terms of functional and radiological criteria in a cohort of patients.

Aim: To assess outcome in a cohort of patients following operative treatment of ankle fractures.

Materials and Methods: Patients with suitable injuries sustained were identified from the hospital HIPE database. Data was collated from hospital records including demographic details, mechanism of injury, details of the initial injury and surgical treatment. Patients were invited to attend for clinical and radiological examination of the injured ankle. Patients completed the SF12, the Olerud ankle score and a visual analogue pain scale (VAS) on arrival at the clinic. The range of motion of both the injured and uninjured ankle were examined. Finally, the patient’s injured ankle was evaluated on plain X-rays using Cedell’s scoring system. Comparison was made with initial roentgens at the time of injury.

Results: From 106 patients treated over a four-year period, 63 were successfully followed up. Mean time of follow up was 3.5 years. Older patients had a poorer recovery, as had those with more severely displaced fractures. Pain was not a major problem for patients with 58 complaining of no pain, or pain only after prolonged exercise. 43% of patients complained of occasional swelling of the affected limb. The majority of patients (89%) had returned to their previous occupations at the time of follow up. 16% of patients (10) had their metalwork removed post operatively. In seven cases, this was due to skin problems or pain adjacent to the metalwork.

Conclusion: Older age at presentation, and severity of initial injury appear to have a significant effect on long-term outcome, which may be attributable to poorer osteosynthetic ability in an elderly osteoporotic patient. Our study underlines the importance of accurate anatomical reduction of ankle fractures in order to minimise subsequent arthrosis.

Treatment of scaphoid fractures continues to be a difficult problem for both acute unstable fractures and non-unions. In our study, the results of a consecutive series of symptomatic non-unions of scaphoid fractures treated with Herbert screw and bone graft during period between July 1996 and June 2000 are studied. Out of a total of 66 patients (one bilateral), 61 (91.04%) cases who had symptomatic non-unions (type D) were treated with Herbert screw plus iliac crest bone graft while 6 (8.95%) cases were treated for acute unstable fractures (type B) with Herbert screw only (these are excluded from the study). All fractures were classified according to Herbert classification. Russe approach was used in 50 patients while dorsal approach was used in 11 cases with proximal pole fracture non-union. The time interval between injury and surgery was 12.2 months (range 2–72 months). Patients were followed up for radiological evidence of union and clinically for range of movement of wrist, grip strength and outcome score. The site of fracture, type, screw placement, the time interval between the original injury and non-union surgery, and age of the patient, were investigated to assess whether they influenced outcome.

Results: Total No. 61 – union 47 (77.1%), persistent non-union 14 (22.9%). We found site of fracture (p=0.044), type of fracture (p=0.028) and screw placement (p=0.019) as statistically significant factors influencing outcome. No statistically significant influence on outcome was found with patient’s age (p=0.983) and also with time interval to non-union surgery (p=0.749). Forty-six (75%) patients were available for clinical follow-up. Seven (15.2%) had persistent non-unions of which four had proximal pole fracture non-unions. Using the scaphoid outcome score, an assessment scale based on pain, occupation, wrist motion, strength and patient satisfaction, functional results were graded as excellent in 19 cases, good in 12 cases, fair in 10 cases and poor in 5 cases. We recommend axial placement of Herbert screw with bone grafting via Russe approach and for difficult proximal pole non-unions dorsal approach is recommended.

Background: While generally aware about other infectious diseases, few realize the threats posed by Hepatitis C. We assessed if the Orthopedic surgery residents have adequate knowledge and wheather they take necessary precautions when exposed clinically to Hepatitis C.

Methods: A pre coded structured questionnaire was administered to Orthopedic surgery residents from three provinces and seven cities of Pakistan, who were participating in the Annual Orthopedic Review Course at the Aga Khan University hospital. Unprompted questions, focused on key knowledge issues, while beliefs and practices were assessed through knowledge and attitude towards Hepatitis C infectivity, complications, therapeutic modalities, actual precautions taken by them while handling body secretions of the patients. and their reading habbits about the literature of this disease.

Results: The median number of surgeries participated in, by the forty-three residents was 150 in the last one year. Though 83% knew that there was no vaccine for HCV, majority (66%) was unaware that it is a sexually transmitted disease and 82% did not know about its possibility of being transmitted perinatally. Eighty-eight percent knew about its transmission through a needle prick injury but 71% of the residents were unaware of the fact that in the case of the needle prick, highest risk of acquisition is of HCV when compared to HBV and HIV. In practices, 74% were vaccinated for HBV. When handling a known case of HCV, 87% used an extra pair of gloves while only 50% took extra care with needles. Median number of needle pricks was one in last one year. Only 16% knew the serostatus of the patients they received injury from. Only 28% of the residents knew their own serostatus for HCV compared to 60% for HBV. 60% of these residents were in habit of handling needles with their hands. Knowledge of HCV did not diff

Conclusion: Changing the attitude of the health care workers towards HCV has become increasingly important. We suggest that all new residents should be given a pretest, a lecture, a demonstration of the standard precautions and infection control procedures with post test, in the beginning of their carriers.