Scaphoid fractures are a common injury accounting for more than 58% of all carpal bone fractures(1,2). Biomechanical studies have suggested that scaphoid mal-union may lead to altered carpal contact mechanics causing decreased motion, pain and arthritis(1,2). The severity of mal-union required to cause deleterious effects has yet to be established. This limits the ability to define surgical indications or impacts on prevention of posttraumatic arthritis. Computed tomography has been shown to be a useful in determining the 3D implications of altered bony alignment on the joint contact mechanics of surrounding joints. The objective of this study was to report mid-term follow-up image-based outcomes of patients with scaphoid mal-unions to determine the extent to which arthritic changes and decreased joint space is present after a minimum of 4 years following fracture.

Participants (n=14) who had previously presented with a mal-united scaphoid fracture (indicated by a Height:Length Ratio >0.6) between November 2005 and November 2013 were identified and contacted. A short-arm thumb spica case was used to treat X patients and X required surgical management. Baseline and follow-up CT images, were performed with the wrist in radial deviation and positioned such that the long axis of the scaphoid was perpendicular to the axis of the scanner. Three-dimensional inter-bone distance (joint space), a measure of joint congruency and 3D alignment, was quantified from reconstructed CT bone models of the distal radius, scaphoid, lunate, capitate, trapezium and trapezoid from both the baseline and follow-up scans(3). Repeated measures ANOVA was used to detect differences in contact area (mm2) between baseline and follow-up CT's for the radioscaphoid, scaphocapitate and scaphotrapezium-trapezoid joint.

The average age of participants was 43.1 years (16–64 years old). There was significant loss of joint space, indicated by a greater joint contact area 3–4 years post fracture, between baseline and follow-up reconstruction models, at the scaphocapitate (mean difference: 21.5±146mm2, p=0.007) and scaphotrapezoid joints (mean difference: 18.4 ±28.6mm2, 0.042). Significant differences in the measured contact area was not found for the radioscaphoid (0.153) and scaphotrapezium joints (0.72). Additionally, the scaphoid, qualitatively, appears to track in the vorsal direction in the majority of patients following fracture.

Increased joint contact area in the scaphocapitate and scaphotrapezoid joint 3–4 years following fracture results from decreased 3D joint space and overall narrowing. Joint space narrowing, while not significantly different for all joints examined, was reduced for all joints surrounding the scaphoid. Decreased joint space and increased contact area detectable within this short interval might be suggestive of a trajectory for developing arthritis in the longer term, and illustrates the potential value of these measures for early detection. Longer term follow-up and correlation to clinical outcomes are needed to determine the importance of early joint space narrowing, and to identify those most at risk.

Long term outcomes of distal radius fractures have rarely been studied prospectively and do not traditionally extend past 1–2 years following treatment. The purpose of this study was to describe the long term patient-rated pain and disability of patients after a distal radius fracture and to also determine the differences in patient reported pain and disability after one year following injury and at the long term follow-up.

Patients who had previously participated in a prospective study, where baseline and standardised one year follow-up were performed following a distal radius fracture were contact to participate in this long term follow-up (LTFU) study. Eligible cases that consented agreed to evaluation which included being sent a package in the mail contain a letter of information and questionnaire. Baseline demographic data including age and sex, as well as date of fracture, mechanism of fall and attending physician information was obtained for all participating subjects. Patient rated pain and disability was measured at baseline, one year and at long-term follow-up using the Patient Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE). Patients were categorised as having had a worse outcome (compared to one year follow-up PRWE scores) if their LTFU PRWE score increased by 5 points, having no change in status (if their score changed by four or less points) or improved if their LTFU PRWE score decreased by 5 or more points.

Sixty-five patients (17 male, 48 female) with an average age of 57 years at the time of injury and 67 years at follow-up were included in the study. The mean length of follow-up was 10.7 (± 5.8) years (range: 3–19 years). Overall, 85% of patients reported having no change or had less patient-reported pain and disability (PRWE) at their long-term follow-up compared to their one year PRWE scores. As well, one year PRWE scores were found to be predictive (20.2%) of the variability in long term PRWE score (p=0.001).

This study provided data on a cohort of prospectively followed patients with a distal radius fracture, approximately 10 years after injury. This data may be useful to clinicians and therapists who are interested in determining the long term effects of this frequently occurring upper extremity fracture. The results of this study indicate that after 10 years following a distal radius fracture, 85% of patients will have good outcomes. The results of this study also indicate that majority of cases, if patients have a low amount of pain and disability at one year, then these outcomes will also be true approximately 10 years later.

Introduction

Lack of standardization of outcome measurement has hampered an evidence-based approach to clinical practice and research. We report on the progress on establishing a minimal set of core domains for outcome measurement in distal radius fracture.

Purpose: The success of humeral head replacement following fracture is reliant on several factors, one of which is version. The correct humeral version (HV) is highly variable, and is patient and side dependent. In the setting of fracture, there is no intra-operative landmark to guide the surgeon as to the anatomic version. This study has examined computed tomography (CT) of the shoulder and compared the HV to the metaphyseal version (MV) to evaluate reliability in predicting the anatomic version.

Method: A retrospective review of 50 shoulder CT scans was carried out. Patients were excluded if the anatomy prevented HV or MV evaluation. The HV and MV was measured by 2 independent evaluators. Inter and intra-rater reliability was performed.

Results: There were 27 right and 23 left shoulder CT’s reviewed. The mean age of patients was 45.3 (range 13–85). The difference between the MV and HV was approximately 2.8 (95% CI 0.63–5.1). Inter and intra-rater reliability was 0.966 and 0.984, respectively.

Conclusion: Determining the version of the humeral head in the setting of fracture is difficult and highly inaccurate. The biceps groove has been previously cited as a landmark for arthroplasty position, however, given the anatomic variability, version may be miscalculated. We have demonstrated the medial calcar of the proximal humerus is within 3 degrees of the actual humeral head version. This CT guided approach is novel, reproducible and demonstrates excellent reliability. It is both accurate and consistent and may be successfully utilized in the setting where normal anatomic landmarks are absent, such as fracture.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify if preoperative pain scores predict postoperative pain and functional outcomes in patients following rotator cuff surgery and if a threshold where increased risk occurs could be established. Establishing a risk threshold may help identify patients who need increased follow-up or rehabilitation.

Method: One hundred six subjects with rotator cuff pathology requiring operative intervention were prospectively followed. The pain subscale of the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) was used as an indicator of pre-operative pain. Postoperative function one year following surgery was determined using the Simple Shoulder Test (SST). Scores with 40% or more deficit (compared to age matched controls) were classified as poor outcomes. The relative risk (RR) of poor SST scores was calculated across different cutoffs for preoperative pain scores.

Results: Having a high preoperative pain score was associated with a poor outcome following rotator cuff surgery at both the six month and one year followup. Preoperative pain scores did predict postoperative functional scores. As preoperative pain levels increased there was a higher risk of poor functional outcomes. The RR of having a poor SST at 1-year was 2.3, if preoperative pain score was greater than 35/50.

Conclusion: The current study indicates that those patients with high preoperative pain scores (> 35/50 or > 70%) are more than twice as likely to have a poor outcome following rotator cuff surgery. This should inform patients and surgeons for postoperative expectations. Whether closer follow-up, pre-rehabilitation, more intensive postoperative rehabilitation or enhanced pain management can alter this prognosis warrants investigation.

Purpose: The reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) has shown improvement in both pain control and function in recent studies. The purpose of this study was to prospectively analyze functional outcomes and strength in patients following the use of the Delta III prosthesis in a single center.

Method: Patients treated by one of two surgeons were prospectively evaluated following RTSA. An independent observer administered the Constant Score, SF-12, Shoulder Osteoarthritis (SOAQ), ASES, DASH questionnaires and patient satisfaction. Isometric strength testing was performed using the Powertrack II dynamometer. Follow-up for all patients was available up to 5 years following surgery.

Results: The Delta III RTSA was performed on 51 study patients (67% female, mean age 74 (SD=10)). Improvements following surgery were noted in Quality of life (SF-12 Physical Summary= 30 to 38); shoulder disability (SOAQ= 144 to 79; ASES 7 to 15; DASH= 61 to 46; Constant 21 to 56), Symptoms (SOAQ symptoms 40 to 22), Physical impairments as determined by strength (External rotation = 3 to 5 Nm, Abduction 4 to 10 Nm); and ROM (Flexion= 51 to 115°, abduction 45 to 106°); p< 0.05. All patients had follow up between 2–5 years. Satisfaction was high (86% extremely, 3% not at all).

Conclusion: Our data demonstrates significant improvements in quality of life, symptoms, patient satisfaction and disability with reduced and high at more than 2 years following RTSA. Novel to this study is improved objective evidence of strength in functional planes of motion. This is the first Canadian study to demonstrate such improvements in patients following RTSA.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of an ulnar styloid fracture (USF) associated with a nonsurgically or surgically treated distal radius fracture (DRF) in adult Patients under 65 years of age.

Method: This was a cohort study involving 170 DRF patients aged 18 to 64 years old that presented to a single tertiary care center from 2004 to 2008. At initial presentation, three, six, 12 and 24 months follow up, patients were asked to complete a standardized pain and disability self-report measure, Patient Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE). All participants had posterior-anterior and lateral wrist radiographs performed at initial presentation and at each visit. Radiographs were reviewed at initial presentation, post treatment and at final follow up for DRF alignment as well as USF information. USFs were classified by size into tip, middle and base.

Results: There were 170 DRF patients with two patients having bilateral injuries giving a total of 172 DRFs. Age ranged from 20 to 64 years old with a mean age of 50. There were 113 females and 57 males. Eighty-four of the DRFs were not associated with an USF and 88 were. Of these 88, 42 were tip, 18 were middle and 28 were base USFs. Thirty-two of these USFs (36%) were united at final follow up. One-hundred and one patients were treated nonoperatively and 69 treated operatively for their DRFs. The PRWE scores of DRF patients with an associated USF of any size was significantly better than those without an associated USF only at 24 month follow up (10 vs. 23, p=0.04). Patients with an USF in the middle or at the base had better PRWE scores at both 12 and 24 months (17 vs. 23, p=0.05 at 12 months & 10 vs. 20, p=0.01 at 24 months). An ulnar head fracture had no influence on PRWE scores. There was no difference in PRWE scores between united and nonunited ulnar styloid fractures at all follow up time points.

Conclusion: We found that an USF was associated with better PRWE scores at 24 months and that the larger USFs, middle and base fractures, were associated with better scores at as early as 12 months. A fall onto the outstretched hand includes a component of force transmission through the ulnar side of the wrist. Without a bony ulnar styloid injury, we hypothesize that this force is transmitted through the soft tissues, creating an associated occult ligamentous, TFCC or other undetected soft tissue injuries resulting in higher pain and disability among those without a fracture. This hypothesis will require further attention in future studies. Union of the USFs also did not show an effect on outcome.

This study evaluated the impact of smoking on the surgical outcome of rotator cuff repair controlling for age, gender, and size of tear.

Two hundred and fifty patients were evaluated by a blind evaluator and by self report (SST and WORC questionnaires) at baseline and one year post-op. Types of cuff repair included arthroscopic, mini-open and open procedures. Smoking status was evaluated as a current smoker, quit, or never smoked. Smoking history was subsequently dichotomised into smoker and non-smoker. Generalised linear modeling was used to determine the impact of smoking on surgical outcome using age, gender, and tear size as covariates.

The mean age of the population used was 56+/−11 years in which 70% were males and 30% females. Tear size was distributed amongst this population as small (0–1 cm {44.9%}), moderate (1–3cm {22.7%}), large (3–5cm {15.2%}) and massive (5+cm {17.2%}). All preliminary analyses indicated gender affected tear size and surgical outcomes, and was also associated with smoking status. Due to this confounding effect, males and females were separated for subsequent analysis. The SST questionnaire found smoking to have a significant negative effect on the 1-year l outcomes of males (8.5 vs. 6.1 p=0.025). A similar trend was seen with the WORC (p=0.07). No significant effects were seen for females, but the sample size was underpowered.

Analysis of this population of rotator cuff repairs showed complex interrelationships may exist between gender, age, physical demands and smoking status. The existence of these confounding interrelationships may explain the mixed results seen in the literature concerning smoking and orthopedic procedures. This relatively large cohort established a negative impact of smoking on outcome, after controlling for covariates and confounders. Future research on mediators of cuff outcome should consider potential confounders. Conclusion: Smoking negatively effected surgical outcomes for males but was inconclusive for females. Sex behaved as a confounding variable that masked the smoking effects.

Hemiarthroplasty has been accepted as a viable alternative in the treatment of painful arthritis due to massive rotator cuff failure in patients with well-preserved functional active forward elevation of the shoulder. Unfortunatley, the early clinical results and long-term durability of hemiarthroplasty for rotator cuff tear arthropathy (RCTA) have been inferior to those seen in other disorders, most notably concentric osteoarthritis. Concern regarding the potential need for revision to a reverse shoulder arthroplasty has given rise to the notion of a resurfacing prosthesis as a primary procedure rather than a traditional stemmed-hemiarthroplasty in the hopes of reducing procedural and postoperative complications.

Eleven resurfacing humeral arthroplasties (Global CAP, Depuy) were performed for RCTA as a primary arthroplasty. There were six males and five females, average age of 74.7 years. 36% had undergone previous surgery on the affected side. All had failed a minimum of one year of non-operative treatment prior to surgery. Follow-up averaged eight months (range 4–12).

Prospective mean data analysis showed an improvement in all scales from preoperative baseline levels inclusive of the SST (3.5–6), ASES assessment form (8–17.5), Constant score (49–79) and the DASH (50–27). Mean active forward elevation remained relatively unchanged (one hundred and nine to one hundred degrees), while mean active external rotation improved (thirty-three to fifty-four degrees). Mean computerised muscle testing showed improvement in both elevation (5.1–7.7 N/m) and external rotation strength (2.6–5 N/m). Radiographic analysis has not shown any evidence of implant loosening to date.

Resurfacing humeral arthroplasty seems to demonstrate early favorable clinical results in this group of patients with RCTA. This may serve as an alternative to a stemmed-hemiarthroplasty in these patients and possibly result in a less complicated revision to a reverse prosthesis in the future should this be deemed necessary. Given these results are early, ongoing clincal followup will be necessary to define the longer-term durability of this procedure.

This study evaluated the impact of surgical wait-list times on the functional status and productivity of patients with rotator cuff tear

Two hundred and five patients were evaluated by a blind evaluator and by self report when referred for surgical management of cuff tear (confirmed by ultrasound or MRI). Patients were assessed on a monthly basis prior to surgery (two year limit). ROM and strength were assessed by an independent evaluator; patient’s self-reported comorbidity, functional status (WORC, SST), work limitations (WLQ-26) and work lost-time. Changes in health status were assessed using repeated measures ANOVA and GLM.

The mean age of the population used was 56+/−11 years in which 74% were males and 26% females. Tear size was distributed amongst this population as small (0–1 cm {45%), moderate (1–3cm 27%), large (3–5cm 23.2%) and massive (5+cm 15%). Patients had symptoms or an average of fourteen months prior to referral. Despite this, decline in strength (p mental demands) (output demands > time management demands). Loss in productivity exceeded 15%.

Rotator cuff tear causes substantial at work-limitation and work lost time. Patients lost strength and declined in functional status while waiting for surgical repair of a torn rotator cuff. The burden of illness, while waiting for cuff repair its substantial.

The functional outcomes of twenty-eight patients with capitellum and trochlea fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation were evaluated at a mean follow-up of fifty-five ± thirty-three months. Patients were independently evaluated by a series of questionnaires, radiographs, physical examination and strength testing. Patients with simple fractures did better than those with complicated fractures. The average DASH score was 19/100 and the average ROM was 20 – 130°. Two fractures did not unite and required conversion to total elbow arthroplasty.

A classification system is proposed based on fracture patterns, surgical technique and clinical outcomes.

Capitellum and trochlea fractures are uncommon fractures of the distal humerus. There is limited information about the functional outcome of patients managed with open reduction and internal fixation.

The functional outcome of twenty-eight patients (average age: forty-three ± thirteen years [range, twenty – seventy-one]) who were treated with open reduction and internal fixation for capitellum and trochlea fractures was evaluated at a mean follow-up of fifty-five ± thirty-three months (range, fourteen – one hundred and twenty-one). Patient outcomes were assessed by physical examination, radiographs, range of motion measurements, strength testing and self reported questionnaires (DASH, SF-36 ASES and PREE elbow scales).

There were eleven fractures involving the capitellum, four involving the capitellum and trochlea as one piece and thirteen in which the capitellum and trochlea were separate fragments. These fractures were further defined by the presence or absence of posterior comminution. Fourteen had isolated fractures and fourteen were associated with other elbow, forearm or wrist injuries. Patients with complicated fractures required more extensive surgery, had more complications resulting in secondary procedures and had poorer outcomes compared to those with simple fractures. The average DASH score (19/100), quality of life scores (SF-36: Physical=46, Mental=49) and the average ROM (20 – 130°) suggest favorable patient outcomes overall.

Patients with simple fractures had better results than those with more complicated fractures. A fracture classification system based on fracture patterns, surgical technique and clinical outcomes is proposed.

Purpose: Glenoid replacement remains challenging due to the difficult visualization of anatomical reference landmarks and highly variable version angles. Improper positioning of the glenoid component leads to loosening, early wear, and instability. The objective of this study was to develop and evaluate a tracking system for glenoid implantation. We hypothesized that Computer Assisted Glenoid Implantation (CAGI) would achieve a more accurate and reliable placement of the glenoid component compared to traditional methods.

Methods: 3D CT models of sixteen paired cadaveric shoulder specimens were reconstructed and angles were measured using 3D modeling softwares. Jigs were developed to track instruments and to correct for scapular motion. A standardized protocol for determining in real-time via electromagnetic tracking the glenoid centre, version, inclination and ultimate component placement was previously developed and validated in our laboratory. Specimens were randomized to either traditional or CAGI performed by one of two blinded fellowship trained shoulder surgeons. The mean age was 67 years (range 61–88). Native version and inclination were similar in both groups. All phases of glenoid implantation were navigated.

Results: CAGI was more accurate in achieving the correct version during all phases of glenoid implantation (p < 0.05; paired t-test). CAGI CONTROL Initial pin * 6.3 ± 2.9° Reaming *7.0 ± 3.9° Post drilling * 0.6 ± 0.4° 8.3 ± 4.6°|Post cement * 2.3 ± 2.0° 7.9 ± 3.6°|Post implant CT * 1.8 ± 0.9° 7.7 ± 4.0°. Table 1. Absolute values of the mean error ± SD of version angles obtained with either CAGI or the traditional method (goal = 0° version; * p < 0.05). The largest errors with traditional were observed during drilling and reaming where visualization was especially obscured by the reamer heads. The trend was to retrovert the glenoid. There was no difference with respect to inclination angles (p > 0.05).

Conclusions: Preoperative planning using CT imaging with 3D modeling and intra-operative tracking were combined to produce improved accuracy and reliability of glenoid implantation.

Funding : Other Education Grant

Funding Parties : National Sciences & Engineering Research Council research grant

This study prospectively evaluated the functional outcome and strength of patients after rotator cuff surgery. Thirty-three patients were evaluated pre-operatively and post-operatively for one year. Each patient underwent clinical evaluation of shoulder range of motion and machine strength testing. Additionally they completed the SF-36, DASH, Western Ontario Rotator Cuff, and Washington Simple Shoulder Test questionnaires. The study showed that patients with small and large tears showed improvement after surgery. Smaller tears had better outcomes. Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) patients had lower functional outcomes despite strength and range of motion showing no difference with non- WSIB patients.

This study prospectively evaluated strength and functional outcome after rotator cuff surgery.

Thirty-three patients, mean age 55.6, were evaluated pre-operatively and post-operatively for one year. Twenty-eight patients were male and five were female. Seventeen patients involved the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board and sixteen patients had non-WSIB related tears. The patients were also divided based on tear size into two groups (< 3cm and > 3.1cm). Allpatients underwent an acromioplasty. Twenty-two also had an open or mini-open repair. Two underwent arthroscopic repair. Five patients had a debridement and four patients had Latissimus Dorsi Transfer. All had an evaluation of range of motion(ROM), machine isometric strength testing, and completion of the SF-36, DASH, Western Ontario Rotator Cuff (WORC) and Washington Simple Shoulder Test (WST) at each visit.

Based on tear size, there was a significant difference in functional outcome on the SF-36 (p< 0.05), DASH (p< 0. 005), WORC (p< 0.001) and WST (p< 0.01). Within each group there was significant improvement in strength (p< 0.01) over time. The smaller tear group showed significantly greater strength. The ROM was improved within each group over time (p< 0.01), though no statistical difference was determined between groups. In comparing the sample based on WSIB status, functional outcomes were better in Non-WSIB patients (p< 0.01). Although no statistical difference in strength and ROM was noted.

Patients with both small and large tears showed improved functional outcome, strength and ROM over time, with the smaller tear group having better outcomes. WSIB patients had lower functional outcomes despite strength and ROM showing no difference between the two groups.

This study investigated the time lost from work following a distal radius fracture and its predictors. A cohort of one hundred and sixty-eight workers who experienced a distal radius fracture were followed at two, three, six, and twelve months to determine their work status. The average number of weeks lost from work was 9.5 weeks. Significant correlates with lost-time from work were: energy of injury, occupational demand, workers compensation, initial radial inclination on x-ray, baseline PRWE and DASH scores and Mental Component-SF-36). Without self-report, 45% of the variation in lost-time was explained by workers compensation status, radial inclination, occupational demand, energy of injury, sex and age.

This study investigated the time lost from work following a distal radius fracture and its predictors.

Time lost from work after a distal radius fracture is highly variable. Patients who have higher job demands (hand use), are on workers compensation, report higher initial pain/disability and who present with more severe displacement have the highest lost-time.

This data defines average expectations of return to work and the extent to which injury, job and personal characteristics influence it.

The average number of weeks lost from work was 9.5 weeks ( median= 6; 75th percentile=12 SD=9.6; range = 0–44). Significant correlates with lost-time from work were: energy of injury, occupational demand, workers compensation, initial radial inclination on x-ray, baseline PRWE and DASH scores and Mental Component-SF-36). A stepwise multiple linear regression found that 50% of the variation in lost-time could be explained on the basis of the initial PRWE, occupational demand and radial inclination. Without self-report, 45% of the variation in lost-time was explained by workers compensation status, radial inclination, occupational demand, energy of injury, sex and age.

A cohort of one hundred and sixty-eight workers who experienced a distal radius fracture were enrolled. Age, sex, education level, smoking status, alcohol consumption, injury compensation status, occupational use of hand, energy of injury and radiographic injury severity (pre-reduction radial shortening, radial inclination, dorsal angulation) were recorded. Patients were followed at two, three, six, and twelve months to determine their work status. Multiple linear regression identified predictors of time lost from work.

We retrospectively reviewed thirty-six patients who had undergone dorsal opening wedge osteotomies using cancellous bone graft and plate fixation for symptomatic healed angulated distal radius fractures.

Average improvement of the distal radius dorsal articular tilt was 28° and the ulna variance 2.7mm. The final average range of motion was flexion 46°, extension 62°, pronation 79°and supination 75°. The range of supination and pronation was not significantly different from the unaffected limb (p> 0.115).

For healed angulated distal radius fractures, dorsal opening wedge osteotomy combined with cancellous bone grafting and plate fixation, is a reliable technique allowing significant deformity correction.

We retrospectively reviewed thirty-six patients with symptomatic healed angulated distal radius fractures who had undergone dorsal opening wedge osteotomies using cancellous bone graft and plate fixation by a single surgeon. Twenty-five patients were reviewed both clinically and radiologically with an average follow-up of forty-seven months. The radiographs of a further eleven patients were reviewed.

Average age at surgery was fifty years with an interval from injury of twenty-nine months. All osteotomies united. 20% required plate removal.

Preoperatively the average distal radius articular tilt was 25° dorsal, and ulna variance +4.3mm. Following correction, average articular tilt was 3° volar, and ulna variance +2mm. These changes were highly significant (p< 0.0005). There was no significant loss of correction of the deformity between the immediate postoperative radiographs and those following union (p> 0.33).

The average range of motion was flexion 46°, extension 62°, pronation 79°and supination 75°. The range of pronation and supination was not significantly different from the unaffected limb (p> 0.115).

The average Patient Rated Wrist Evaluation Score was thirty, indicating residual pain and disability greater than that for an age matched cohort of patients with uncomplicated distal radius fractures (PRWE=15), previously reported by our laboratory. Patients reported that they were satisfied with the cosmetic appearance and had regained 73% of wrist use – these values had a significant negative correlation with the final ulna variance (p< 0.05).

For healed angulated distal radius fractures, dorsal opening wedge osteotomy combined with cancellous bone grafting and plate fixation, is a reliable technique allowing significant deformity correction.

This study determined the validity of three patient self-report scales (PRWE, DASH and AUSCAN) to assess outcomes of CMC arthroplasty. Factor analyses did not support the described structure of the three scales. There was a strong relationship between pain or function subscales across different instruments (r> 0.80). Known construct testing regarding WSIB status and arthritis severity supported the discriminative validity of all scales (p< 0.05) except for the function (PRWE) and stiffness (AUSCAN) subscales (p=0.08). Separation of pain/function concepts may be difficult when evaluating outcomes in hand arthritis. The DASH is not unidimensional in this population

This study determined the concurrent validity of patient self-report scales to assess outcomes of CMC (carpometacarpal) arthroplasty.

The subscale structure of the PRWE, DASH and AUSCAN is not valid for a patient population with hand arthritis – Pain, function and stiffness do not differentiate as separate concepts. It appears as though function can be separated into separate components addressing strength and fine motor hand function on all three scales. The DASH was not unidimensional.

Reporting of outcomes following CMC arthroplasty should utilize either the questionnaires total scores or validated factors. Use of unvalidated subscales should be avoided.

Factor analyses did not support the described structure of any of the three scales. PRWE three subscales- two factors; AUSCAN – pain and stiffness items loaded on one factor, function items separated into two factors; DASH – four factors. The largest factor on the DASH contained items relating to symptoms and participation restrictions. Items relating to hand function also separated into a separate factor. Correlational analyses indicated a strong relationship between pain or function subscales across instruments ( r> 0.80) and low correlation with hand appearance (r< 0.20). Tests of known constructs on WSIB status or arthritis severity supported the discriminative validity of all scales (p< 0.05), except for the function subscale off the PRWE or the stiffness subscale of the AUSCAN (p=0.08).

Factor analyses, inter-scale correlations and tests of known constructs were conducted on the Patient Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE), Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, Hand (DASH) and the AUSCAN (osteoarthritis of the hand).

The purpose of this study was to determine if arthroscopic release is safe and effective in the management of elbow contracture. Twenty patients (mean age of forty-two), undergoing arthroscopic contracture release were retrospectively reviewed at a minimum follow-up of one year (mean twenty-five months). Most patients had combined extrinsic & intrinsic causes for contractures. Mean flexion improved from 122 to 137°. Mean extension improved from 38° to 18°. The mean arc improvement was 35° (p < 0.001). None of the patients had instability and there were no major neuro-vascular complications. All patients had decreased pain and improved elbow function.

To determine if arthroscopic release is safe and effective in the management of elbow contracture.

Twenty patients (mean age of forty-two), undergoing arthroscopic contracture release were retrospectively reviewed at a minimum follow-up of one year (mean twenty-five months). Most patients had combined extrinsic & intrinsic causes for contractures. Motion and strength were measured with standard goniometry and the LIDO isokinetic system by independent evaluators.

Mean flexion improved from 122 ± 16° to 137 ± 12°. Mean extension improved from 38 ± 18° to 18 ± 14°. The mean arc improvement was 35 ± 21° (p < 0.001). Arthroscopic release did not affect forearm rotation or strength. One patient developed a permanent medial antebrachial cutaneous neuroma. One patient required a repeat surgery to remove a loose body. There were no instability and no major neurovascular complications. All patients had improved elbow function with a mean ASES score of thirty-one out of thirty-six. Most patients were satisfied with their surgery, had minimal pain, considered themselves in good physical health on the SF-36, and had minimal impairment on the DASH.

Arthroscopic release is safe and effective in experienced hands.

Results are comparable to traditional open techniques. The theoretical advantages of arthroscopy include improved joint visualization, decreased morbidity and earlier rehabilitation.

Disadvantages include the potential for serious neurovascular complications, and the inability to deal with ulnar nerve pathology or heterotopic ossification. Indications for conversion to open release include excessive swelling, and failure to maintain adequate view.

Forty-nine patients with a repair of their rotator cuff were evaluated at baseline and at six-months after surgery using four self-reports scales (DASH, Western Ontario Rotator Cuff (WORC,) SF-36 and Washington Simple Shoulder (SST) scales. Standardized response means were used to determine responsiveness. The DASH was most responsive (SRM=1.27), the WORC (SRM=1.0) and SST (0.91) were intermediary and the least response was the SF-36 (0.73). These results suggest that the DASH may be preferable to either a disease specific scale or a shoulder scale for detecting clinical progress following cuff repair.

A number of self-report scales exist for shoulder problems, including regional, joint-specific and disease specific scales. Determining the most responsive scale is essential for outcome evaluation and clinical trials.

Forty-nine patients with a repair of their rotator cuff were evaluated at baseline and at six-months after surgery using four self-reports scales (DASH, Western Ontario Rotator Cuff (WORC,) SF-36 and Washington Simple Shoulder (SST) scales. An independent research assistant administered scales. Standardized response means were used to determine responsiveness.

The DASH was most responsive (SRM=1.27), the WORC (SRM=1.0) and SST (0.91) were intermediary and the least response was the SF-36 (0.73). The subscale of the WORC that showed the most change was lifestyle. Physical subscales of the SF-36 showed improvement; whereas, minimal impact on mental health was observed.

The DASH can be used for a variety of upper extremity conditions, whereas the WORC was designed specifically for rotator cuff disease. Unless a disease specific scale is more responsive, there is little reason to adopt a scale than can only be used for one condition. This data supports the ability of the DASH to indicate upper extremity function and the important role of the rotator cuff in function.

The implications of these findings are that the DASH may be preferable to either a disease specific scale for rotator cuff disease or a shoulder scale for detecting clinical progress.

The reliability and accuracy of plain radiographs, MRI and CT Arthrography to detect the presence of loose bodies was evaluated in twenty-six patients with mechanical elbow symptoms. The location of loose bodies found by the imaging studies was compared to arthroscopic findings. Overall sensitivity for the detection of loose bodies was 88 – 100% and specificity was 20 – 70%. Plain radiographs had a similar sensitivity and specificity of 84% and 71% respectively. MRI and CT Arthrography were similar to plain radiography, suggesting that routine use of these modalities is not indicated.

The purpose of this study was to determine the clinical utility of MRI and CT Arthrography (CTA) to reliably and accurately predict the presence of loose bodies in the elbow.

Twenty-six patients with mechanical elbow symptoms underwent plain radiography, MRI and CTA, followed by standard elbow arthroscopy. Three musculoskeletal radiologists reviewed the ‘blinded’ plain radiographs with both the MRI and CTA at separate sittings. The location and number of loose bodies on the MRI and CTA were recorded. The preoperative plain radiographs, MRI and CTA were compared to the arthroscopic findings.

Agreement between radiologists was higher for the number of loose bodies identified in the posterior compartment (ICC=0.72 for both MRI and CTA) than in the anterior compartment (ICC=0.41 and 0.52 for MRI and CTA respectively). The correlation between the number of lose bodies observed on MRI and CTA compared to those found arthroscopically was also higher in the posterior compartment (r=0.54–0.85) than in the anterior compartment (r=0.01–0.45). Both MRI and CTA had excellent sensitivity (92–100%) but moderate to low specificity (15–77%) in identifying posteriorly located loose bodies. Neither MRI nor CTA were consistently sensitive (46–91%) or specific (13–73%) in predicting anterior loose bodies. Overall sensitivity for the detection of loose bodies in either compartment was 88–100% and specificity was 20–70%. The preoperative radiographs had a similar sensitivity and specificity of 84% and 71% respectively.

MRI and CTA were similar to plain radiography in the prediction of elbow loose bodies.