The effectiveness of total hip arthroplasty (THA) for patients with no or minimal radiological signs of osteoarthritis (OA) is unclear. In this study, we aimed to: 1) assess the outcome of such patients; 2) identify patient comorbidities and CT or MRI findings which predicted outcome; and 3) compare their outcome to the expected outcome of THA for hip OA. Adult patients undergoing THA for hip pain, with no or minimal radiological features of OA (Tönnis grading scale ≤ 1), were identified from a consecutive series of 1,925 THAs. Exclusion criteria were: inflammatory arthritis; osteonecrosis of the femoral head; prior trauma or infection; and patients without minimum one-year follow-up and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). The primary outcome measure was the Oxford Hip Score (OHS). Secondary outcome measures were EuroQol-visual analogue scale (EQ-VAS), University of California and Los Angeles (UCLA) scale, and patient satisfaction on a validated three-point ‘better’, ‘same’, or ‘worse’ scale.Aims
Methods
Assessment of bone health is a multifaceted clinical process, incorporating biochemical and diagnostic tests that should be accurate and reproducible. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is the reference standard for evaluation of bone mineral density, but has known limitations. Alternatives include quantitative CT (q-CT), MRI, and peripheral quantitative ultrasound (QUS). Radiofrequency echographic multispectrometry (REMS) is a new generation of ultrasound technology used for the assessment of bone mineral density (BMD) at axial sites that is as accurate as quality-assured DXA scans. It also provides an assessment of the quality of bone architecture. This will be of direct value and significance to orthopaedic surgeons when planning surgical procedures, including fracture fixation and surgery of the hip and spine, since BMD alone is a poor predictor of fracture risk. The various other fixed-site technologies such as high-resolution peripheral q-CT (HR-pQCT) and MRI offer no further significant prognostic advantages in terms of assessing bone structure and BMD to predict fracture risk. QUS was the only widely adopted non-fixed imaging option for bone health assessment, but it is not considered adequately accurate to provide a quantitative assessment of BMD or provide a prediction of fracture risk. In contrast, REMS has a robust evidence base that demonstrates its equivalence to DXA in determining BMD at axial sites. Fracture prediction using REMS, combining the output of fragility information and BMD, has been established as more accurate than when using BMD alone.Aims
Methods
The last five years have seen notable advancements in foot and ankle surgery as a result of technical innovations and more consistent reporting of results. Much progress has been made in improving patient-reported outcome measures, in the development of basic research in this area, and in the development of personalized approaches which optimize outcomes for specific groups of patients. This review focuses on five main areas of development within foot and ankle surgery: ankle arthroplasty, osteomyelitis and the diabetic foot, sports injuries, minimally invasive surgery, and orthobiologics. The aim of this annotation is to discuss the progress made in these fields during recent years and propose avenues for further development. Cite this article:
To evaluate patient-reported outcomes three months after treatment of metacarpal and phalangeal fractures or dislocations, and to identify factors that are associated with worse patient-reported outcomes. This cross-sectional, multicentre snapshot study included all adult patients with metacarpal and phalangeal fractures or dislocations during a three-month period between August and October 2020. The primary outcome was the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ) three months after injury. The MHQ scores were compared to normative MHQ scores of 90 points of the affected hand of patients who sustained unilateral trauma derived from a previous study. Subgroup analyses were performed for the most common injury types. Multivariable linear regression was used to study associations between patient characteristics and worse MHQ scores.Aims
Methods
The conversion of previous hip fracture surgery to total hip arthroplasty (CTHA) can be surgically challenging with unpredictable outcomes; reported complication rates vary significantly. This study aimed to establish the medium-term survival and outcomes of CTHA performed following a previous hip fracture surgery. All CTHAs performed at our tertiary orthopaedic institution between January 2008 and January 2020 following previous ipsilateral hip fracture surgery were included. Patients were followed up clinically using Oxford Hip Scores (OHS), and radiologically until death or revision surgery. Postoperative complications, radiological implant failure, and indications for revision surgery were reviewed.Aims
Methods
Valgus subsidence of uncemented tibial components following medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) poses a challenge in the early postoperative phase, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of its prevalence, risk factors, and impact on patient outcomes. This prospective multicentre study analyzed 97 knees from 90 patients undergoing UKA across four participating hospitals. A standardized surgical technique was employed uniformly by all participating surgeons. Postoperative evaluations were conducted preoperatively, and one day, four weeks, three months, and one year postoperative, encompassing weightbearing radiographs, bone mineral density assessments, and clinical outcome reports using the Forgotten Joint Score and Oxford Knee Score. Statistical analyses, including non-parametric correlation analysis using the Kendall correlation coefficient and Mann-Whitney U test, were performed to explore associations between subsidence and various patient-related or radiological parameters.Aims
Methods
To evaluate how fore- and midfoot coronal plane alignment differs in feet with hallux valgus (HV), using 3DCT when measured in standard weightbearing (SWB) versus sesamoid view (SV) position, and to determine whether first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) dorsiflexion affects the relationship between the first metatarsal (M1) head and the sesamoid bones. A consecutive series of 34 feet that underwent 3DCT in SWB and SV positions for symptomatic HV was assessed, of which four feet were excluded for distorted or incomplete images. Two foot and ankle clinicians independently digitized a series of points, and measured a series of angles according to a pre-defined protocol. Measurements include navicular pronation angle, M1 head (Saltzman angle), and metatarsosesamoid rotation angle (MSRA).Aims
Methods
The February 2025 Oncology Roundup360 looks at:The role of bone grafting versus bone cement in the treatment of giant cell tumour of bone: a systematic review and meta-analysis on the risk of recurrence in 1,454 patients; Tumour necrosis drives prognosis in osteosarcoma; Correlation between post-chemotherapy MRI and histopathology of malignant bone tumours treated with extra-articular resection; Real-world referral pattern of unplanned excision in patients with soft-tissue sarcoma; Assessment of artificial intelligence chatbot responses to common patient questions on bone sarcoma; Chondrosarcoma of the pelvis and limbs at ten years; Chest wall resection and reconstruction for primary chest wall sarcomas: analysis of survival, predictors of outcome, and long-term functional status; Ewing’s sarcoma in the paediatric population: predictors of survival within the USA; Pulmonary metastasectomy for sarcoma: insights from a referral centre cohort.
The aim of this study was to report long-term clinical outcomes of a modern convertible metal-backed glenoid (MBG) in total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). After a minimum of 15 years, a previously studied cohort of 35 patients who received a modern convertible MBG during the period 1996 to 2005 was contacted for clinical and radiological follow-up. At last follow-up, patients were evaluated radiologically and clinically according to the Constant Score, Simple Shoulder Test, and visual analogue scale for pain. Complications and revisions were recorded, and survival analysis was performed.Aims
Methods
Hallux valgus (HV) presents as a common forefoot deformity that causes problems with pain, mobility, footwear, and quality of life. The most common open correction used in the UK is the Scarf and Akin osteotomy, which has good clinical and radiological outcomes and high levels of patient satisfaction when used to treat a varying degrees of deformity. However, there are concerns regarding recurrence rates and long-term outcomes. Minimally invasive or percutaneous surgery (MIS) has gained popularity, offering the potential for similar clinical and radiological outcomes with reduced postoperative pain and smaller scars. Despite this, MIS techniques vary widely, hindering comparison and standardization. This review evaluates the evidence for both open Scarf and Akin osteotomy and newer-generation MIS techniques. Fourth-generation MIS emphasizes multiplanar rotational deformity correction through stable fixation. While MIS techniques show promise, their evidence mainly comprises single-surgeon case series. Comparative studies between open and MIS techniques suggest similar clinical and radiological outcomes, although MIS may offer advantages in scar length and less early postoperative pain. MIS may afford superior correction in severe deformity and lower recurrence rates due to correcting the bony deformity rather than soft-tissue correction. Recurrence remains a challenge in HV surgery, necessitating long-term follow-up and standardized outcome measures for assessment. Any comparison between the techniques requires comparative studies. Surgeons must weigh the advantages and risks of both open and MIS approaches in collaboration with patients to determine the most suitable treatment. Cite this article:
Tibial fixation in revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA) can present surgical challenges. It has been suggested that appropriate fixation in at least two of the three anatomical zones (epiphysis, metaphysis, and diaphysis) is essential for implant survival. However, supporting clinical data are lacking. In this retrospective case-control study, we investigated the relationship between zonal fixation of hybrid rTKA tibial components and re-revision total knee arthroplasty for aseptic loosening (rrTKA-AL). All consecutive rTKAs with hybrid tibial components (May 2006 to December 2020) were screened for subsequent rrTKA-AL. A control group was randomly selected from the remaining cohort. Postoperative radiographs of rTKAs were scored in random order by three blinded observers for zonal fixation in the epiphysis (bone resection level below, at, or above fibular head; 0 to 2), metaphysis (number of sufficiently cemented zones; 0 to 4), and diaphysis (canal filling ratio (CFR); %). The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was calculated to quantify the agreement between observers. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the relationship between zonal fixation and rrTKA-AL.Aims
Methods
Traditionally, patients with a fracture of the distal radius are treated in a cast if they do not require surgery. If the fracture requires manipulation, the cast is moulded to hold the reduction and maintain normal anatomical alignment during healing. However, is a cast necessary for patients whose fracture does not require manipulation? Removable splints are an alternative treatment option. Such splints have the advantage that they can be adjusted to improve fit around the wrist as swelling reduces, and can be removed and reapplied for the purpose of washing or, in some cases, exercise. However, evidence for their safety and effectiveness in the management of distal radius fractures is lacking. DRAFT3 is a multicentre randomized non-inferiority trial and economic analysis designed to determine the safety and effectiveness of removable splints as an alternative to casts in the treatment of distal radius fractures that do not require manipulation. Cite this article:
The free latissimus dorsi muscle (LDM) flap represents a workhorse procedure in the field of trauma and plastic surgery. However, only a small number of studies have examined this large group of patients with regard to the morbidity of flap harvest. The aim of this prospective study was therefore to objectively investigate the morbidity of a free LDM flap. A control group (n = 100) without surgery was recruited to assess the differences in strength and range of motion (ROM) in the shoulder joint with regard to handedness of patients. Additionally, in 40 patients with free LDM flap surgery, these parameters were assessed in an identical manner.Aims
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Aims. Functional alignment (FA) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) aims to achieve balanced gaps by adjusting implant positioning while minimizing changes to constitutional joint line obliquity (JLO). Although FA uses kinematic alignment (KA) as a starting point, the final implant positions can vary significantly between these two approaches. This study used the Coronal Plane Alignment of the Knee (CPAK) classification to compare differences between KA and final FA positions. Methods. A retrospective analysis compared pre-resection and post-implantation alignments in 2,116 robotic-assisted FA TKAs. The lateral distal femoral angle (LDFA) and medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA) were measured to determine the arithmetic hip-knee-ankle angle (aHKA = MPTA – LDFA), JLO (JLO = MPTA + LDFA), and CPAK type. The primary outcome was the proportion of knees that varied ≤ 2° for aHKA and ≤ 3° for JLO from their KA to FA positions, and direction and magnitude of those changes per CPAK phenotype. Secondary outcomes included proportion of knees that maintained their CPAK phenotype, and differences between sexes. Results. Overall, 71.6% had an aHKA change ≤ 2°, and 87.0% a JLO change ≤ 3°. Mean aHKA changed from -1.1° (SD 2.8°) in KA to -1.9° (SD 2.3°) in FA (mean difference (MD) -0.83 (SD 2.0); p < 0.001). Mean JLO changed from 173.9° (SD 3.0°) in KA to 174.2° (SD 2.6°) in FA (MD 0.38 (SD 2.3); p < 0.001). CPAK type was maintained in 58.1% of knees, with the proportion highest for Types I (73.9%), II (61.1%), and IV (51.2%). In valgus knees, 67.5% of Type III and 71.7% of Type VI were shifted to neutral phenotypes. There was minimal change to constitutional JLO across all CPAK types (MDs -2.0° to 1.2°). Conclusion. Functional alignment may alter CPAK type, but does not significantly change JLO. A kinematic starting point minimizes changes to native
The December 2024 Shoulder & Elbow Roundup360 looks at: Predicting recurrence of instability after a primary traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation; Predictors of surgery and long-term outcomes in nonoperative management of full-thickness rotator cuff tears; Reverse shoulder arthroplasty viable despite acquired acromial compromise, but higher infection risk noted; LP-PRP reduces retear rates in rotator cuff repair but shows no functional outcome advantage; Long-term clinical outcomes of arthroscopic supraspinatus tendon repair using the single anchor tension band technique – minimum five-year follow-up; Arthroscopic stabilization for anterior shoulder dislocation shows low recurrence rates regardless of prior dislocations; ORIF outperforms arthroplasty for complex radial head fractures: mid-term outcomes; Routine use of surgical helmet systems may not reduce infection risk in shoulder arthroplasty.
The December 2024 Children’s orthopaedics Roundup360 looks at: Establishing best practice for managing idiopathic toe walking in children: a UK consensus; Long-term outcomes of below-elbow casting in paediatric diaphyseal forearm fractures; Residual dysplasia risk persists in developmental dysplasia of the hip patients after Pavlik harness treatment; 3D printing in paediatricorthopaedics: enhancing surgical efficiency and patient outcomes; Pavlik harness treatment for hip dysplasia does not delay motor skill development in children; High prevalence of hip dysplasia found in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis on routine spine radiographs; Minifragment plates as effective growth modulation for ulnar deformities of the distal radius in children; Long-term success of Chiari pelvic osteotomy in preserving hip function: 30-year follow-up study.
Calcaneal osteomyelitis remains a difficult condition to treat with high rates of recurrence and below-knee amputation, particularly in the presence of severe soft-tissue destruction. This study assesses the outcomes of single-stage orthoplastic surgical treatment of calcaneal osteomyelitis with large soft-tissue defects. A retrospective review was performed of all patients who underwent combined single-stage orthoplastic treatment of calcaneal osteomyelitis (01/2008 to 12/2022). Primary outcome measures were osteomyelitis recurrence and below-knee amputation (BKA). Secondary outcome measures included flap failure, operating time, complications, and length of stay.Aims
Methods
As advancements in total knee arthroplasty progress at an exciting pace, two areas are of special interest, as they directly impact implant design and surgical decision making. Knee morphometry considers the three-dimensional shape of the articulating surfaces within the knee joint, and knee phenotyping provides the ability to categorize alignment into practical groupings that can be used in both clinical and research settings. This annotation discusses the details of these concepts, and the ways in which they are helping us better understand the individual subtleties of each patient’s knee. Cite this article:
The December 2024 Hip & Pelvis Roundup. 360. looks at: Total hip arthroplasty after femoral neck fractures versus osteoarthritis at one-year follow-up: a comparative, retrospective study; Excellent mid-term survival of a monoblock conical prosthesis in treating atypical and complex femoral
Lisfranc injuries were previously described as fracture-dislocations of the tarsometatarsal joints. With advancements in modern imaging, subtle Lisfranc injuries are now more frequently recognized, revealing that their true incidence is much higher than previously thought. Injury patterns can vary widely in severity and
