We present the long-term outcome, at a median of 18 years (12.8 to 23.5) of open posterior bone block stabilisation for recurrent posterior instability of the shoulder in a heterogenous group of 11 patients previously reported on in 2001 at a median follow-up of six years. We found that five (45%) would not have chosen the operation again, and that four (36%) had further posterior dislocation. Clinical outcome was significantly worse after 18 years than after six years of follow-up (median Rowe score of 60 versus 90 (p = 0.027)). The median Western Ontario Shoulder Index was 60% (37% to 100%) at 18 years’ follow-up, which is a moderate score. At the time of surgery four (36%) had glenohumeral radiological osteoarthritis, which was present in all after 18 years. This study showed poor long-term results of the posterior bone block procedure for posterior instability and a high rate of glenohumeral osteoarthritis although three patients with post-traumatic instability were pleased with the result of their operations

Bone defects are frequently observed in anterior shoulder instability. Over the last decade, knowledge of the association of bone loss with increased failure rates of soft-tissue repair has shifted the surgical management of chronic shoulder instability. On the glenoid side, there is no controversy about the critical glenoid bone loss being 20%. However, poor outcomes have been described even with a subcritical glenoid bone defect as low as 13.5%. On the humeral side, the Hill-Sachs lesion should be evaluated concomitantly with the glenoid defect as the two sides of the same bipolar lesion which interact in the instability process, as described by the glenoid track concept. We advocate adding remplissage to every Bankart repair in patients with a Hill-Sachs lesion, regardless of the glenoid bone loss. When critical or subcritical glenoid bone loss occurs in active patients (> 15%) or bipolar off-track lesions, we should consider anterior glenoid bone reconstructions. The techniques have evolved significantly over the last two decades, moving from open procedures to arthroscopic, and from screw fixation to metal-free fixation. The new arthroscopic techniques of glenoid bone reconstruction procedures allow precise positioning of the graft, identification, and treatment of concomitant injuries with low morbidity and faster recovery. Given the problems associated with bone resorption and metal hardware protrusion, the new metal-free techniques for Latarjet or free bone block procedures seem a good solution to avoid these complications, although no long-term data are yet available. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(10):1100–1110

This retrospective study analyses the results of subtalar bone block distraction arthrodesis used in the treatment of late complications of calcaneal fractures, acute severely comminuted fractures, nonunion (and malunion) of attempted subtalar arthrodeses, avascular necrosis of the talus, and club-foot deformity. Of 39 patients (41 feet) who had this procedure, 35 (37 feet) returned for follow-up after a mean of 70 months (26 to 140). There were 24 men (25 feet) and 11 women (12 feet) with a mean age of 41 years (16 to 63). Each completed a standardised questionnaire, based on the hindfoot-scoring system of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society and were reviewed both clinically and radiologically. Of the 37 operations, 32 (87%) achieved union. The mean hindfoot score (maximum of 94 points) increased from 21.1 points (8 to 46) preoperatively to 68.9 (14 to 82) at the final follow-up. The mean talocalcaneal and calcaneal pitch angles were 20.5° and 4.9° before operation, 25.9° and 8.3° immediately after, and 24.6° and 7.7° at the final follow-up, respectively. The mean talar declination angle improved from 6.5° (−10 to 22) before operation to 24.8° (14 to 32) at the final follow-up. The mean talocalcaneal height increased from 68.7 mm before operation to 74.5 mm immediately after and 73.5 mm at the final follow-up. Of the 37 arthrodeses available for review, 32 were successful; 29 patients (30 arthrodeses) were satisfied with the procedure. Minimal loss of hindfoot alignment occurred when comparing radiographs taken immediately after operation and at final follow-up

The purpose of this paper is to call attention to the anterior bone block method of Hybbinette-Eden for recurrent dislocation of the shoulder joint. 1. The operative technique is not difficult, and the after-treatment is short and relatively agreeable for the patient. 2. Sixty of our own cases are described, with four recurrences. The recurrences all occurred as the result of real trauma. In a total of 128 Scandinavian cases there were eight recurrences—that is 6·3 per cent. 3. In our opinion, based on the observations of radiography, arthrography, and operation, it is the compression fracture of the head of the humerus which deserves the name "essential lesion." Destruction of the anterior rim of the glenoid may be very slight, or entirely lacking. No false joint cavity or rupture big enough to receive the head of the humerus was ever observed by arthrography or by inspection during operative exploration. Recurrent dislocation is an intracapsular subluxation, which occurs when the anterior rim of the glenoid slides into the hollow in the humeral head

In order to improve the fixation of the stem in primary Charnley low-friction arthroplasty, the medullary canal was routinely closed off with a cancellous bone block. A prospective study of 611 consecutive arthroplasties were carried out between 1 and 5 1/2 years (average 2 years and 9 months) after operation. There were two cases of radiological loosening of the stem, both of which could have been avoided. Five other patients showed demarcation of the bone-cement junction at the calcar; two of these are considered to be "at risk" of loosening. There was no evidence of radiological loosening of the stem in 604 cases and the method is recommended for routine use in primary total hip arthroplasty

We report a prospective study of the use of intramedullary bone blocks to improve the fixation of a matt-finish femoral stem in Charnley low-friction arthroplasties. There were 379 patients (441 hips), but at a minimum follow-up of ten years there were 258 arthroplasties in 221 patients including some which had been revised. The mean age at surgery was 41 years (17 to 51) and the mean follow-up was 13.4 years (1 to 20 including the early revisions). Nine stems (3.5%) had been revised for aseptic loosening, but there were no stem fractures. Survivorship of stems was 99.2% at ten years and 94.35% at 15 and 20 years. We found that the patient’s gender, the position of the stem and the experience of the surgeon all influenced the outcome. Our findings suggest that using our method of stem fixation, follow-up of over 11 years was needed to reveal the effects of endosteal cavitation of the femur, and of over 13 years to assess any divergence between the clinical and the radiological outcomes of stem fixation

Aims. We aimed to address the question on whether there is a place for shoulder stabilization surgery in patients who had voluntary posterior instability starting in childhood and adolescence, and later becoming involuntary and uncontrollable. Methods. Consecutive patients who had an operation for recurrent posterior instability before the age of 18 years were studied retrospectively. All patients had failed conservative treatment for at least six months prior to surgery; and no patients had psychiatric disorders. Two groups were identified and compared: voluntary posterior instability starting in childhood which became uncontrollable and involuntary (group VBI); and involuntary posterior instability (group I). Patients were reviewed and assessed at least two years after surgery by two examiners. Results. In all 38 patients (40 shoulders) were included: group I (20 shoulders), with involuntary posterior instability (onset at 14 years of age (SD 2.3), and group VBI (20 shoulders), with initially voluntary posterior instability (onset at 9 years of age (SD 2.6) later becoming involuntary (16 years of age (SD 3.5). Mean age at surgery was 20 years (SD 4.6 years; 12 to 35). A posterior bone block was performed in 18 patients and a posterior capsular shift in 22. The mean follow-up was 7.7 years (2 to 18). Recurrence of posterior instability was seen in nine patients, 30% in group VBI (6/20 shoulders) and 15% in group I (3/20 shoulders) (p > 0.050). At final follow-up, the shoulder's of two patients in each group had been revised. No differences between either group were found for functional outcomes, return to sport, subjective, and radiological results. Conclusion. Although achieving stability in patients with so-called voluntary instability, which evolves into an involuntary condition, is difficult, shoulder stabilization may be undertaken with similar outcomes to those patients treated surgically for involuntary instability. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(12):1760–1766

We used an in vivo model to assess the use of an autogenous cancellous bone block and marrow graft for augmenting tendon reattachment to metallic implants. We hypothesised that augmentation of the tendon-implant interface with a bone block would enable retention of the graft on the implant surface, enhance biological integration, and result in more consistent functional outcomes compared with previously reported morcellised graft augmentation techniques. A significant improvement in functional weight-bearing was observed between six and 12 weeks. The significant increase in ground reaction force through the operated limb between six and 12 weeks was greater than that reported previously with morcellised graft augmented reconstructions. Histological appearance and collagen fibre orientation with bone block augmentation more closely resembled that of an intact enthesis compared with the morcellised grafting technique. Bone block augmentation of tendon-implant interfaces results in more reliable functional and histological outcomes, with a return to pre-operative levels of weight-bearing by 24 weeks

Aims. To draw a comparison of the pullout strengths of buttress thread, barb thread, and reverse buttress thread bone screws. Methods. Buttress thread, barb thread, and reverse buttress thread bone screws were inserted into synthetic cancellous bone blocks. Five screw-block constructs per group were tested to failure in an axial pullout test. The pullout strengths were calculated and compared. A finite element analysis (FEA) was performed to explore the underlying failure mechanisms. FEA models of the three different screw-bone constructs were developed. A pullout force of 250 N was applied to the screw head with a fixed bone model. The compressive and tensile strain contours of the midsagittal plane of the three bone models were plotted and compared. Results. The barb thread demonstrated the lowest pullout strength (mean 176.16 N (SD 3.10)) among the three thread types. It formed a considerably larger region with high tensile strains and a slightly smaller region with high compressive strains within the surrounding bone structure. The reverse buttress thread demonstrated the highest pullout strength (mean 254.69 N (SD 4.15)) among the three types of thread. It formed a considerably larger region with high compressive strains and a slightly smaller region with high tensile strains within the surrounding bone structure. Conclusion. Bone screws with a reverse buttress thread design will significantly increase the pullout strength. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2021;10(2):105–112

Aims

Tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO) facilitates surgical exposure and protects the extensor mechanism during revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA). The purpose of this study was to determine the rates of bony union, complications, and reoperations following TTO during rTKA, to assess the functional outcomes of rTKA with TTO at two years’ minimum follow-up, and to identify the risk factors of failure.

The April 2023 Shoulder & Elbow Roundup³⁶⁰ looks at: Arthroscopic Bankart repair in athletes: in it for the long run?; Functional outcomes and the Wrightington classification of elbow fracture-dislocations; Hemiarthroplasty or ORIF intra-articular distal humerus fractures in older patients; Return to sport after total shoulder arthroplasty and hemiarthroplasty; Readmissions after shoulder arthroplasty; Arthroscopic Bankart repair in the longer term; Bankart repair with(out) remplissage or the Latarjet procedure? A systematic review and meta-analysis; Regaining motion among patients with shoulder pathology: are all exercises equal?

Aims

To clarify the mid-term results of transposition osteotomy of the acetabulum (TOA), a type of spherical periacetabular osteotomy, combined with structural allograft bone grafting for severe hip dysplasia.

Aims

To systematically review the predominant complication rates and changes to patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) following osteochondral allograft (OCA) transplantation for shoulder instability.

1. A case of recurrent posterior subluxation of the shoulder is described. After failure of a soft-tissue repair, a posterior bone block operation was performed. 2. The distinction between traumatic dislocations with tearing of the capsule or of the glenoid labrum, and habitual luxations from laxity of the capsule, is emphasised. Although the anterior rim of the glenoid was detached in this case, it is considered to fall into the latter category. 3. A posterior bone block provides a simple and efficient form of repair in this type of case. It is free from the disadvantage of causing limitation of rotation at the shoulder joint; it employs a principle which might well merit more application than at present in the repair of anterior dislocations

We investigated the static and cyclical strength of parallel and angulated locking plate screws using rigid polyurethane foam (0.32 g/cm. 3. ) and bovine cancellous bone blocks. Custom-made stainless steel plates with two conically threaded screw holes with different angulations (parallel, 10° and 20° divergent) and 5 mm self-tapping locking screws underwent pull-out and cyclical pull and bending tests. The bovine cancellous blocks were only subjected to static pull-out testing. We also performed finite element analysis for the static pull-out test of the parallel and 20° configurations. In both the foam model and the bovine cancellous bone we found the significantly highest pull-out force for the parallel constructs. In the finite element analysis there was a 47% more damage in the 20° divergent constructs than in the parallel configuration. Under cyclical loading, the mean number of cycles to failure was significantly higher for the parallel group, followed by the 10° and 20° divergent configurations. In our laboratory setting we clearly showed the biomechanical disadvantage of a diverging locking screw angle under static and cyclical loading

Aims

The amount of glenoid bone loss is an important factor in deciding between soft-tissue and bony reconstruction when managing anterior shoulder instability. Accurate and reproducible measurement of glenoid bone loss is therefore vital in evaluation of shoulder instability and recommending specific treatment. The aim of this systematic review is to identify the range methods and measurement techniques employed in clinical studies treating glenoid bone loss.

Aims

The aim of this study was to identify risk factors for recurrent instability of the shoulder and assess the ability to return to sport in patients with engaging Hill-Sachs lesions treated with arthroscopic Bankart repair and Hill-Sachs remplissage (ABR-HSR).

Ten cases of post-traumatic recurrent dislocation of the peroneal tendons were operated on between 1974 and 1982. In all cases the disturbed superior peroneal retinaculum was reconstructed by transposition of the calcaneofibular ligament to the lateral side of the peroneal tendons. The calcaneal insertion of the calcaneofibular ligament was mobilised with a small bone block and reinserted in its bed after the transposition. After an average follow-up of four years all the results were satisfactory

A patient with recurrent dislocation of the hip is described. The initial injury had been a posterior dislocation without associated fracture of the acetabular wall, and the hip had not been immobilised or protected from weight-bearing during treatment. Exploration of the hip for recurrence revealed disruption of the posterosuperior acetabular labrum with formation of a pouch between the posterior acetabular wall and the short rotator muscles. We have found no previous report of this lesion, which resembles a Bankart lesion of the shoulder. Repair using a bone block is described

1. Coracoid transplantation for recurring dislocation of the shoulder is described. 2. In my experience of over thirty cases only once has true dislocation recurred after this operation. Recurrence was due to avulsion of the bone block. 3. Failure to repair the original detachment of the glenoid labrum is a frequent cause of recurrence of dislocation of the shoulder. An explanation is offered for this failure; namely that the injured labrum adheres to the deep surface of the subscapularis muscle instead of reattaching itself to bone. This reinforces Watson-Jones's advice that the original dislocation should be treated by complete immobilisation in full medial rotation for three weeks

In the Trillat procedure for recurrent anterior instability of the shoulder the coracoid process is osteotomised and tilted downward to act as a bone block, and a screw is used to fix it and the Bankart lesion to the anterior scapular neck. We reviewed 52 cases after a mean follow-up of 69 months. Results in 73% of shoulders were excellent, 10% were good, 7% fair and 10% poor. Dislocation recurred in 4%, but a positive apprehension sign was present in 10 other shoulders. Some degenerative changes were seen in 62% of shoulders, a complication known to be associated with bone-block procedures. The most important reason for loss of lateral rotation was iatrogenic impingement of the coracoid. This frequent and potentially serious complication can also cause posterior subluxation of the humeral head and osteoarthritis

We reviewed retrospectively 490 patellar ligament reconstructions for cruciate ligament injuries performed from 1980 to 1990. There were six cases of patellar splitting and three displaced patellar fractures in donor knees. The fissure fractures all occurred during the removal of the patellar bone block. The displaced fractures were sustained during early rehabilitation, and in two of the three patients, involved the normal contralateral knee. The major reasons for this complication were imprecise saw cuts, spreading osteotomies, and the use of a too large patellar bone block. When a trapezoidal bone block is used to self-lock in the femoral tunnel, this should preferably be taken from the tibia. Special care is needed in rehabilitation when the graft has been taken from the contralateral knee

Subtalar distraction bone-block arthrodesis for malunited calcaneal fractures was performed in 31 patients (26 men, five women), with a mean age of 38.5 years. The mean time from injury to arthrodesis was 36 months. There were no cases of nonunion. One patient had an early dislocation of the bone block requiring a repeat arthrodesis, and one had a soft-tissue infection. The mean AOFAS hindfoot score improved significantly from 23.5 before operation to 73.2 at a mean follow-up of 33 months (p > 0.001). Compared with the unaffected side, the talocalcaneal height was corrected by 61.8%, the talus-first metatarsal axis by 46.5%, the talar declination angle by 38.5% and the talocalcaneal angle by 35.4%. Dynamic pedobarography revealed a return to normal of the pressure distribution during roll-over and a more energetic gait. The distribution of local transfer of load correlated well with the AOFAS score. The amount of correction of the heel height correlated with a normal pattern of pressure transfer on the heel (p < 0.05)

1. Experiments to examine the antigenicity of homologous bone tissues in rats are reported. The tissues studied included fresh marrow-free cortical bone blocks and chips, fresh, boiled, frozen and freeze-dried marrow-containing iliac bone, fresh iliac bone devoid of marrow, and fresh red marrow. 2. The various tissues were transplanted from hooded to Wistar rats. Three weeks later a skin graft from each donor was transplanted to its respective host to detect the presence of transplantation immunity, which was indicated by the early rejection of the skin graft. 3. Homografts of fresh cortical bone evoked transplantation immunity indicating that it contained transplantation antigens which were also in the skin. 4. Homografts of fresh marrow-containing iliac bone also evoked transplantation immunity, which was shown to be caused by the red marrow. 5. Fresh iliac homografts devoid of marrow did not elicit transplantation immunity. This suggests that iliac bone tissue may not contain transplantation antigens or that the small amount of iliac bone inserted was insufficient. 6. Microscopy of the grafts, removed after three weeks, showed that the inflammatory infiltrations around the bone homografts and autografts were not very different, but that the amount of new bone formed was different. The autografts produced a lot of new bone, the homografts only a little. 7. It is suggested that the immune response evoked in the host by the foreign graft impairs the formation of new bone by fresh homografts of cortical blocks, cortical chips and marrow-containing iliac bone. 8. The impairment of new bone formation by homografts of marrow-free iliac bone is discussed. Such bone grafts fail to evoke detectable transplantation immunity. Why these grafts do not form more new homologous bone than the other homografts studied, is not clear. 9. Homografts of boiled and frozen iliac bone do not evoke any detectable change in the sensitivity of the host to donor tissue. 10. Homografts of freeze-dried marrow-containing iliac bone elicit a slight but significant prolongation of the survival of skin homografts. The implication, in terms of modern immunological theory, is that in such grafts certain tissue antigens still persist

Objectives

This study investigated the biomechanical performance of decellularized porcine superflexor tendon (pSFT) grafts of varying diameters when utilized in conjunction with contemporary ACL graft fixation systems. This aimed to produce a range of ‘off-the-shelf’ products with predictable mechanical performance, depending on the individual requirements of the patient.

Aims

Arthroplasty for end-stage hallux rigidus (HR) is controversial. Arthrodesis remains the gold standard for surgical treatment, although is not without its complications, with rates of up to 10% for nonunion, 14% for reoperation and 10% for metatarsalgia. The aim of this study was to analyze the outcome of a double-stemmed silastic implant (Wright-Medical, Memphis, Tennessee, USA) for patients with end-stage HR.

Aims

We hypothesized that there is no difference in the clinical and radiological outcomes using local bone graft versus iliac graft for subtalar distraction arthrodesis in patients with calcaneal malunion. In addition, using local bone graft negates the donor site morbidity.

Objectives

The exact aetiology and pathogenesis of microdamage-induced long bone fractures remain unknown. These fractures are likely to be the result of inadequate bone remodelling in response to damage. This study aims to identify an association of osteocyte apoptosis, the presence of osteocytic osteolysis, and any alterations in sclerostin expression with a fracture of the third metacarpal (Mc-III) bone of Thoroughbred racehorses.

Aims

The factors that predispose to recurrent instability and revision stabilization procedures after arthroscopic Bankart repair for anterior glenohumeral instability remain unclear. We sought to determine the rate and risk factors associated with ongoing instability in patients undergoing arthroscopic Bankart repair for instability of the shoulder.

Aims

The traditional transosseus flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tendon transfer for patients with Achilles tendinopathy requires two incisions to harvest a long tendon graft. The use of a bio-tenodesis screw enables a short graft to be used and is less invasive, but lacks supporting evidence about its biomechanical behaviour. We aimed, in this study, to compare the strength of the traditional transosseus tendon-to-tendon fixation with tendon-to-bone fixation using a tenodesis screw, in cyclical loading and ultimate load testing.

Objectives

Little is known about tissue changes underlying bone marrow lesions (BMLs) in non-weight-bearing joints with osteoarthritis (OA). Our aim was to characterize BMLs in OA of the hand using dynamic histomorphometry. We therefore quantified bone turnover and angiogenesis in subchondral bone at the base of the thumb, and compared the findings with control bone from hip OA.

Objectives

A variety of operative techniques have been described as under the term ‘Bristow-Latarjet’ procedure. This review aims to define the original procedure, and compare the variation in techniques described in the literature, assessing any effect on clinical outcomes.

The last decade has seen a considerable increase in the use of in total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) to treat patients with end-stage arthritis of the ankle. However, the longevity of the implants is still far from that of total knee and hip arthroplasties.

The aim of this review is to outline a diagnostic and treatment algorithm for the painful TAA to be used when considering revision surgery.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:5–11.

Objectives

This study evaluated the mechanical performance, under low-load cyclic loading, of two different knotless suture anchor designs: sutures completely internal to the anchor body (SpeedScrew) and sutures external to the anchor body and adjacent to bone (MultiFIX P).

Collateral ligament release is advocated in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) to deal with significant coronal plane deformities, but is also associated with significant disadvantages.

We describe steps to avoid release of the collateral (superficial medial and lateral collateral) ligaments during TKA in severely deformed knees, while correcting deformity and balancing the knee.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B(1 Suppl A):101–4.

Treatment of an infected total elbow replacement (TER) is often successful in eradicating or suppressing the infection. However, the extensor mechanism may be compromised by both the infection and the surgery. The goal of this study was to assess triceps function in patients treated for deep infection complicating a TER. Between 1976 and 2007 a total of 217 TERs in 207 patients were treated for infection of a TER at our institution. Superficial infections and those that underwent resection arthroplasty were excluded, leaving 93 TERs. Triceps function was assessed by examination and a questionnaire. Outcome was measured using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS).

Triceps weakness was identified in 51 TERs (49 patients, 55%). At a mean follow-up of five years (0.8 to 34), the extensor mechanism was intact in 13 patients, with the remaining 38 having bone or soft-tissue loss. The mean MEPS was 70 points (5 to 100), with a mean functional score of 18 (0 to 25) of a possible 25 points.

Infection following TER can often be eradicated; however, triceps weakness occurs in more than half of the patients and may represent a major functional problem.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:82–7.

We have treated 14 patients (15 fractures) with nonunion of an intra-articular fracture of the body of the calcaneum. The mean follow-up was six years (2 to 8.5). A total of 14 fractures (93%) had initially been treated operatively with 12 (86%) having non-anatomical reductions. Four feet (27%) had concomitant osteomyelitis. Of the nonunions, 14 (93%) went on to eventual union after an average of two reconstructive procedures. All underwent bone grafting of the nonunion. The eventual outcome was a subtalar arthrodesis in ten (67%) cases, a triple arthrodesis in four (27%) and a nonunion in one (6%). Three patients had a wound dehiscence; all required a local rotation flap. The mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score at latest follow-up was 69, and the mean Visual analogue scale was 3. Of those who were initially employed, 82% (9 of 11) eventually returned to work. We present an algorithm for the treatment of calcaneal nonunion, and conclude that despite a relatively high rate of complication, this complex surgery has a high union rate and a good functional outcome.

The October 2014 Shoulder & Elbow Roundup³⁶⁰ looks at: PRP is not effective in tennis elbow; eccentric physiotherapy effective in subacromial pain; dexamethasone in shoulder surgery; arthroscopic remplissage for engaging Hill-Sach’s lesions; a consistent approach to subacromial impingement; delay in fixation of proximal humeral fractures detrimental to outcomes.

We report our experience with glenohumeral arthrodesis as a salvage procedure for epilepsy-related recurrent shoulder instability. A total of six patients with epilepsy underwent shoulder fusion for recurrent instability and were followed up for a mean of 39 months (12 to 79). The mean age at the time of surgery was 31 years (22 to 38). Arthrodesis was performed after a mean of four previous stabilisation attempts (0 to 11) in all but one patient in whom the procedure was used as a primary treatment. All patients achieved bony union, with a mean time to fusion of 2.8 months (2 to 7). There were no cases of re-dislocation. One revision was undertaken for loosening of the metalwork, and then healed satisfactorily. An increase was noted in the mean subjective shoulder value, which improved from 37 (5 to 50) pre-operatively to 42 (20 to 70) post-operatively although it decreased in two patients. The mean Oxford shoulder instability score improved from 13 pre-operatively (7 to 21) to 24 post-operatively (13 to 36). In our series, glenohumeral arthrodesis eliminated recurrent instability and improved functional outcome. Fusion surgery should therefore be considered in this patient population. However, since the majority of patients are young and active, they should be comprehensively counselled pre-operatively given the functional deficit that results from the procedure.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:1525–9.

There is a high risk of the development of avascular necrosis of the femoral head and nonunion after the treatment of displaced subcapital fractures of the femoral neck in patients aged < 50 years. We retrospectively analysed the results following fixation with two cannulated compression screws and a vascularised iliac bone graft. We treated 18 women and 16 men with a mean age of 38.5 years (20 to 50) whose treatment included the use of an iliac bone graft based on the ascending branch of lateral femoral circumflex artery. There were 20 Garden grade III and 14 grade IV fractures. Clinical and radiological outcomes were evaluated. The mean follow-up was 5.4 years (2 to 10). In 30 hips (88%) union was achieved at a mean of 4.4 months (4 to 6). Nonunion occurred in four hips (12%) and these patients had a mean age of 46.5 years (42 to 50) and underwent revision to a hip replacement six months after operation. The time to union was dependent on age with younger patients achieving earlier union (p < 0.001). According to the Harris hip score which was available for 27 of the 30 hips with satisfactory union, excellent results were obtained in 15 (score ≥ 90 points), fair in ten (score 80 to 90 points), and poor in two hips (≤ 80 points). One patient aged 48 years developed avascular necrosis of femoral head six years after operation and underwent total hip replacement.

The management of displaced subcapital fractures of the femoral neck, in patients aged <  50 years, with two cannulated compression screws and an iliac bone graft based on the ascending branch of lateral femoral circumflex artery, gives satisfactory results with a low rate of complication including avascular necrosis and nonunion.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:1024–8.

The femoral head receives blood supply mainly from the deep branch of the medial femoral circumflex artery (MFCA). In previous studies we have performed anatomical dissections of 16 specimens and subsequently visualised the arteries supplying the femoral head in 55 healthy individuals. In this further radiological study we compared the arterial supply of the femoral head in 35 patients (34 men and one woman, mean age 37.1 years (16 to 64)) with a fracture/dislocation of the hip with a historical control group of 55 hips. Using CT angiography, we identified the three main arteries supplying the femoral head: the deep branch and the postero-inferior nutrient artery both arising from the MFCA, and the piriformis branch of the inferior gluteal artery. It was possible to visualise changes in blood flow after fracture/dislocation.

Our results suggest that blood flow is present after reduction of the dislocated hip. The deep branch of the MFCA was patent and contrast-enhanced in 32 patients, and the diameter of this branch was significantly larger in the fracture/dislocation group than in the control group (p = 0.022). In a subgroup of ten patients with avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head, we found a contrast-enhanced deep branch of the MFCA in eight hips. Two patients with no blood flow in any of the three main arteries supplying the femoral head developed AVN.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1453–7.

Transarticular screw fixation with autograft is an established procedure for the surgical treatment of atlantoaxial instability. Removal of the posterior arch of C1 may affect the rate of fusion. This study assessed the rate of atlantoaxial fusion using transarticular screws with or without removal of the posterior arch of C1. We reviewed 30 consecutive patients who underwent atlantoaxial fusion with a minimum follow-up of two years. In 25 patients (group A) the posterior arch of C1 was not excised (group A) and in five it was (group B). Fusion was assessed on static and dynamic radiographs. In selected patients CT imaging was also used to assess fusion and the position of the screws. There were 15 men and 15 women with a mean age of 51.2 years (23 to 77) and a mean follow-up of 7.7 years (2 to 11.6). Stable union with a solid fusion or a stable fibrous union was achieved in 29 patients (97%). In Group A, 20 patients (80%) achieved a solid fusion, four (16%) a stable fibrous union and one (4%) a nonunion. In Group B, stable union was achieved in all patients, three having a solid fusion and two a stable fibrous union. There was no statistically significant difference between the status of fusion in the two groups. Complications were noted in 12 patients (40%); these were mainly related to the screws, and included malpositioning and breakage. The presence of an intact or removed posterior arch of C1 did not affect the rate of fusion in patients with atlantoaxial instability undergoing C1/C2 fusion using transarticular screws and autograft.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:972–6.

Hip arthrodesis remains a viable surgical technique in well selected patients, typically the young manual labourer with isolated unilateral hip disease. Despite this, its popularity with patients and surgeons has decreased due to the evolution of hip replacement, and is seldom chosen by young adult patients today. The surgeon is more likely to encounter a patient who requests conversion to total hip replacement (THR). The most common indications are a painful pseudarthrosis, back pain, ipsilateral knee pain or contralateral hip pain. Occasionally the patient will request conversion because of difficulty with activities of daily living, body image and perceived cosmesis. The technique of conversion and a discussion of the results are presented.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B, Supple A:114–19.

We describe the early results of glenoplasty as part of the technique of operative reduction of posterior dislocation of the shoulder in 29 children with obstetric brachial plexus palsy. The mean age at operation was five years (1 to 18) and they were followed up for a mean of 34 months (12 to 67).

The mean Mallet score increased from 8 (5 to 13) to 12 (8 to 15) at final follow-up (p < 0.001). The mean passive forward flexion was increased by 18° (p = 0.017) and the mean passive abduction by 24° (p = 0.001). The mean passive lateral rotation also increased by 54° (p < 0.001), but passive medial rotation was reduced by a mean of only 7°. One patient required two further operations. Glenohumeral stability was achieved in all cases.

We evaluated two reconstruction techniques for a simulated posterolateral corner injury on ten pairs of cadaver knees. Specimens were mounted at 30° and 90° of knee flexion to record external rotation and varus movement. Instability was created by transversely sectioning the lateral collateral ligament at its midpoint and the popliteus tendon was released at the lateral femoral condyle. The left knee was randomly assigned for reconstruction using either a combined or fibula-based treatment with the right knee receiving the other. After sectioning, laxity increased in all the specimens. Each technique restored external rotatory and varus stability at both flexion angles to levels similar to the intact condition. For the fibula-based reconstruction method, varus laxity at 30° of knee flexion did not differ from the intact state, but was significantly less than after the combined method.

Both the fibula-based and combined posterolateral reconstruction techniques are equally effective in restoring stability following the simulated injury.

Transfer of pectoralis major has evolved as the most favoured option for the management of the difficult problem of irreparable tears of subscapularis. We describe our experience with this technique in 30 patients divided into three groups. Group I comprised 11 patients with a failed procedure for instability of the shoulder, group II included eight with a failed shoulder replacement and group III, 11 with a massive tear of the rotator cuff. All underwent transfer of the sternal head of pectoralis major to restore the function of subscapularis.

At the latest follow-up pain had improved in seven of the 11 patients in groups I and III, but in only one of eight in group II. The subjective shoulder score improved in seven patients in group I, in one in group II and in six in group III. The mean Constant score improved from 40.9 points (28 to 50) in group I, 32.9 (17 to 47) in group II and 28.7 (20 to 42) in group III pre-operatively to 60.8 (28 to 89), 41.9 (24 to 73) and 52.3 (24 to 78), respectively.

Failure of the tendon transfer was highest in group II and was associated with pre-operative anterior subluxation of the humeral head. We conclude that in patients with irreparable rupture of subscapularis after shoulder replacement there is a high risk of failure of transfer of p?ctoralis major, particularly if there is pre-operative anterior subluxation of the humeral head.

Disruption of the extensor mechanism in total knee arthroplasty may occur by tubercle avulsion, patellar or quadriceps tendon rupture, or patella fracture, and whether occurring intra-operatively or post-operatively can be difficult to manage and is associated with a significant rate of failure and associated complications. This surgery is frequently performed in compromised tissues, and repairs must frequently be protected with cerclage wiring and/or augmentation with local tendon (semi-tendinosis, gracilis) which may also be used to treat soft-tissue loss in the face of chronic disruption. Quadriceps rupture may be treated with conservative therapy if the patient retains active extension. Component loosening or loss of active extension of 20° or greater are clear indications for surgical treatment of patellar fracture. Acute patellar tendon disruption may be treated by primary repair. Chronic extensor failure is often complicated by tissue loss and retraction can be treated with medial gastrocnemius flaps, achilles tendon allografts, and complete extensor mechanism allografts. Attention to fixing the graft in full extension is mandatory to prevent severe extensor lag as the graft stretches out over time.

The October 2012 Shoulder & Elbow Roundup³⁶⁰ looks at: fast-absorbing suture anchors for use in shoulder labral tears; double-row rotator cuff repair; degenerate massive rotator cuff tears addressed with partial repair; open and arthroscopic stabilisation of Bankart lesions; predicting the risk of revision humeral head replacement; arthroscopic treatment for frozen shoulder; and long-term follow-up of the Bristow-Latarjet procedure.

We studied 11 patients (14 elbows) with gross rheumatoid deformity of the elbow, treated by total arthroplasty using the Kudo type-5 unlinked prosthesis, and who were evaluated between five and 11 years after operation. Massive bone defects were augmented by autogenous bone grafts. There were no major complications such as infection, subluxation or loosening. In most elbows relief from pain and stability were achieved. The results, according to the Mayo Elbow Performance Score, were excellent in eight, good in five and fair in one. In most elbows there was minimal or no resorption of the grafted bone. There were no radiolucent lines around the stems of the cementless components. This study shows that even highly unstable rheumatoid elbows can be replaced successfully using an unlinked prosthesis, with augmentation by grafting for major defects of bone.

A total of 12 epileptic patients (14 shoulders) with recurrent seizures and anterior dislocations of the shoulder underwent a Latarjet procedure and were reviewed at a mean of 8.3 years (1 to 20) post-operatively. Mean forward flexion decreased from 165° (100° to 180°) to 160° (90° to 180°) (p = 0.5) and mean external rotation from 54° (10° to 90°) to 43° (5° to 75°) (p = 0.058). The mean Rowe score was 76 (35 to 100) at the final follow-up. Radiologically, all shoulders showed a glenoid-rim defect and Hill-Sachs lesions pre-operatively. Osteo-arthritic changes of the glenohumeral joint were observed in five shoulders (36%) pre-operatively and in eight shoulders (57%) post-operatively. Re-dislocation during a seizure occurred in six shoulders (43%). Five of these patients underwent revision surgery using a bone buttress from the iliac crest and two of these patients re-dislocated due to a new seizure.

Due to the unacceptably high rate of re-dislocation after surgery in these patients, the most important means of reducing the incidence of further dislocation is the medical management of the seizures. The Latarjet procedure should be reserved for the well-controlled patient with epilepsy who has recurrent anterior dislocation of the shoulder during activities of daily living.

We describe the use of a vascularised periosteal patch onlay graft based on the 1,2 intercompartmental supraretinacular artery in the management of 11 patients (ten men, one woman) with chronic nonunion involving the proximal third of the scaphoid. The mean age of the patients was 31 years (21 to 45) with the dominant hand affected in eight. Six of the patients were smokers and three had undergone previous surgery to the scaphoid. All of the proximal fragments were avascular. The presence of union was assessed using longitudinal axis CT.

Only three patients progressed to union of the scaphoid and four required a salvage operation for a symptomatic nonunion. The remaining four patients with a persistent nonunion are asymptomatic with low pain scores, good grip strength and a functional range of wrist movement.

Although this technique has potential technical advantages over vascularised pedicled bone grafting, the rate of union has been disappointing and we do not recommend it as a method of treatment.

We used demineralised bone matrix (DBM) to augment re-attachment of tendon to a metal prosthesis in an in vivo ovine model of reconstruction of the extensor mechanism at the knee. We hypothesised that augmentation of the tendon-implant interface with DBM would enhance the functional and histological outcomes as compared with previously reported control reconstructions without DBM. Function was assessed at six and 12 weeks postoperatively, and histological examination was undertaken at 12 weeks.

A significant increase of 23.5% was observed in functional weight-bearing at six weeks in the DBM-augmented group compared with non-augmented controls (p = 0.004). By 12 weeks augmentation with DBM resulted in regeneration of a more direct-type enthesis, with regions of fibrocartilage, mineralised fibrocartilage and bone. In the controls the interface was predominantly indirect, with the tendon attached to the bone graft-hydroxyapatite base plate by perforating collagen fibres.

We compared the long-term function of subscapularis after the Latarjet procedure using two surgical approaches. We treated 102 patients (106 shoulders) with a mean age of 26.8 years (15 to 51) with involuntary unidirectional recurrent instability. The operation was carried out through an L-shaped incision with trans-section of the upper two-thirds of the muscle in 69 cases and with a subscapularis split in 37. All clinical results were assessed by the Rowe and the Duplay scores and the function of subscapularis by evaluating the distance and strength at the lift-off position. Bilateral CT was performed in 77 patients for assessment of fatty degeneration. The mean follow-up was 7.5 years (2 to 15) and 18% of cases were lost to follow-up. The mean Duplay score was 82 of 100 for the L-shaped incision group and 90 of 100 for those with a subscapularis split (p = 0.02). The mean fatty degeneration score was 1.18 after an L-shaped incision compared with 0.12 after subscapularis split (p = 0.001). The subscapularis split approach is therefore recommended.

Posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) is indicated for many patients with pain and/or instability of the lumbar spine. We performed 36 PLIF procedures using the patient’s lumbar spinous process and laminae, which were inserted as a bone graft between two vertebral bodies without using a cage. The mean lumbar lordosis and mean disc height to vertebral body ratio were restored and preserved after surgery. There were no serious complications.

These results suggest that this procedure is safe and effective.

We compared extrusion of the allograft after medial and lateral meniscal allograft transplantation and examined the correlation between the extent of extrusion and the clinical outcome. A total of 73 lateral and 26 medial meniscus allografts were evaluated by MRI at a mean of 32 months (24 to 59) in 99 patients (67 men, 32 women) with a mean age of 35 years (21 to 52). The absolute values and the proportional widths of extruded menisci as a percentage were measured in coronal images that showed maximum extrusion. Functional assessments were performed using Lysholm scores. The mean extrusion was 4.7 mm (1.8 to 7.7) for lateral menisci and 2.9 mm (1.2 to 6.5) for medial menisci (p < 0.001), and the mean percentage extrusions were 52.0% (23.8% to 81.8%) and 31.2% (11.6% to 63.4%), respectively (p < 0.001). Mean Lysholm scores increased significantly from 49.0 (10 to 83) pre-operatively to 86.6 (33 to 99) at final follow-up for lateral menisci (p = 0.001) and from 50.9 (15 to 88) to 88.3 (32 to 100) for medial menisci (p < 0.001). The final mean Lysholm scores were similar in the two groups (p = 0.312). Furthermore, Lysholm scores were not found to be correlated with degree of extrusion (p = 0.242).

Thus, transplanted lateral menisci extrude more significantly than transplanted medial menisci. However, the clinical outcome after meniscal transplantation was not found to be adversely affected by extrusion of the allograft.

Introduction

The objective of this study was to determine if a synthetic bone substitute would provide results similar to bone from osteoporotic femoral heads during in vitro testing with orthopaedic implants. If the synthetic material could produce results similar to those of the osteoporotic bone, it could reduce or eliminate the need for testing of implants on bone.

Radial osteotomy is currently advocated for patients with Lichtman’s stages II and IIIA of Kienböck’s disease; its place in the treatment of patients with stage IIIB disease remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the medium-term results of this procedure and to compare the outcome in patients with stage IIIB disease and those with earlier stages (II and IIIA). A total of 18 patients (18 osteotomies) were evaluated both clinically and radiologically at a mean follow-up of 10.3 years (4 to 18). Range of movement, grip strength and pain improved significantly in all patients; the functional score (Nakamura Scoring System (NSSK)) was high and self-reported disability (Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire) was low at the final follow-up in all patients evaluated. Patients with stage IIIB disease, however, had a significantly lower grip strength, lower NSSK scores and higher disability than those in less advanced stages. Radiological progression of the disease was not noted in either group, despite the stage. Radial osteotomy seems effective in halting the progression of disease and improving symptoms in stages II, IIIA and IIIB. Patients with less advanced disease should be expected to have better clinical results.

Although gradual bone transport may permit the restoration of large-diameter bones, complications are common owing to the long duration of external fixation. In order to reduce such complications, a new technique of bone transport involving the use of an external fixator and a locking plate was devised for segmental tibial bone defects.

A total of ten patients (nine men, one woman) with a mean age at operation of 40.4 years (16 to 64) underwent distraction osteogenesis with a locking plate to treat previously infected post-traumatic segmental tibial defects. The locking plate was fixed percutaneously to bridge proximal and distal segments, and was followed by external fixation. After docking, percutaneous screws were fixed at the transported segment through plate holes. At the same time, bone grafting was performed at the docking site with the external fixator removed.

The mean defect size was 5.9 cm (3.8 to 9.3) and mean external fixation index was 13.4 days/cm (11.8 to 19.5). In all cases, primary union of the docking site and distraction callus was achieved, with an excellent bony result. There was no recurrence of deep infection or osteomyelitis, and with the exception of one patient with a pre-existing peroneal nerve injury, all achieved an excellent or good functional result.

With short external fixation times and low complication rates, bone transport with a locking plate could be recommended for patients with segmental tibial defects.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1667–72.

We compared the results ten years after an inverted V-shaped high tibial osteotomy with those of a historical series of conventional closing-wedge osteotomies. The closing-wedge series consisted of 56 knees in 51 patients with a mean follow-up of 11 years (10 to 15). The inverted V-shaped osteotomy was evaluated in 48 knees in 43 patients at a mean follow-up of 14 years (10 to 19). All the patients were scored using the Japanese Orthopaedic Association rating scale for osteoarthritis of the knee and radiological assessment.

The pre-operative grade of osteoarthritis was similar in both groups. Post-operatively, the knee function score was graded as satisfactory in 63% (35) of the closing-wedge group but in 89% (43) of the inverted V-shaped osteotomy group. Post-operative radiological examination showed that delayed union and loss of correction occurred more often after a closing-wedge osteotomy than after an inverted V-shaped procedure.

Our study suggests that the inverted V-shaped osteotomy may offer more dependable long-term results than traditional closing-wedge osteotomy.

We examined the mechanical properties of Vicryl (polyglactin 910) mesh in vitro and assessed its use in vivo as a novel biomaterial to attach tendon to a hydroxyapatite-coated metal implant, the interface of which was augmented with autogenous bone and marrow graft. This was compared with tendon re-attachment using a compressive clamp device in an identical animal model. Two- and four-ply sleeves of Vicryl mesh tested to failure under tension reached 5.13% and 28.35% of the normal ovine patellar tendon, respectively. Four-ply sleeves supported gait in an ovine model with 67.05% weight-bearing through the operated limb at 12 weeks, without evidence of mechanical failure.

Mesh fibres were visible at six weeks but had been completely resorbed by 12 weeks, with no evidence of chronic inflammation. The tendon-implant neoenthesis was predominantly an indirect type, with tendon attached to the bone-hydroxyapatite surface by perforating collagen fibres.

We describe the results of surgical treatment in a prospective study of 183 consecutive cases of subluxation (101) and dislocation (82) of the shoulder secondary to obstetric brachial plexus palsy between 1995 and 2000. Neurological recovery was rated ‘good’ or ‘useful’ in all children, whose lesions fell into groups 1, 2 or 3 of the Narakas classification. The mean age at operation was 47 months (3 to 204). The mean follow-up was 40 months (24 to 124).

The mean gain in function was 3.6 levels (9.4 to 13) using the Mallet score and 2 (2.1 to 4.1) on the Gilbert score. The mean active global range of shoulder movement was increased by 73°; the mean range of active lateral rotation by 58° and that of supination of the forearm by 51°. Active medial rotation was decreased by a mean of 10°. There were 20 failures. The functional outcome is related to the severity of the neurological lesion, the duration of the dislocation and onset of deformity.

Of the 11 054 Charnley low-frictional torque arthroplasties carried out at our hospital between 1962 and 1977, 110 (94 patients) had a minimum follow-up of 30 years with a mean of 32.3 years (30.0 to 40.5). The mean age of the patients at operation was 43.3 years (17.0 to 65.0) and 75.7 years (51.0 to 97.0) at follow-up. Overall, 90% of hips (99) were free from pain and activity was reported as normal in 58% of the patients.

A total of 13 hips (11.8%) were revised at a mean follow-up of 32.3 years (30.0 to 39.5), with wear and loosening of the acetabular component as the main indications.

The clinical results did not reflect the mechanical state of the implant. Follow-up with sequential radiographs of good quality is essential. Revision for radiological changes alone must be accepted if gross loss of bone stock is to be avoided.

Improvements in the design, materials and operative technique, based on the long-term outcome, are highlighted.

We describe 119 meniscal allograft transplantations performed concurrently with articular cartilage repair in 115 patients with severe articular cartilage damage. In all, 53 (46.1%) of the patients were over the age of 50 at the time of surgery. The mean follow-up was for 5.8 years (2 months to 12.3 years), with 25 procedures (20.1%) failing at a mean of 4.6 years (2 months to 10.4 years). Of these, 18 progressed to knee replacement at a mean of 5.1 years (1.3 to 10.4). The Kaplan-Meier estimated mean survival time for the whole series was 9.9 years (sd 0.4). Cox’s proportional hazards model was used to assess the effect of covariates on survival, with age at the time of surgery (p = 0.026) and number of previous operations (p = 0.006) found to be significant.

The survival of the transplant was not affected by gender, the severity of cartilage damage, axial alignment, the degree of narrowing of the joint space or medial versus lateral allograft transplantation. Patients experienced significant improvements at all periods of follow-up in subjective outcome measures of pain, activity and function (all p-values < 0.05), with the exception of the seven-year Tegner index score (p = 0.076).

There are no long-term published results on the survival of a third-generation cemented total shoulder replacement. We describe a clinical and radiological study of the Aequalis total shoulder replacement for a minimum of ten years. Between September 1996 and May 1998, 39 consecutive patients underwent a primary cemented total shoulder replacement using this prosthesis. Data were collected prospectively on all patients each year, for a minimum of ten years, or until death or failure of the prosthesis. At a follow-up of at least ten years, 12 patients had died with the prosthesis intact and two had emigrated, leaving 25 available for clinical review. Of these, 13 had rheumatoid arthritis and 12 osteoarthritis. One refused radiological review leaving 24 with fresh radiographs.

Survivorship at ten years was 100% for the humeral component and 92% for the glenoid component. The incidence of lucent lines was low. No humeral component was thought to be at risk and only two glenoid components. The osteoarthritic group gained a mean 65° in forward flexion and their Constant score improved by a mean 41.4 points (13 to 55). The rheumatoid group gained a mean of 24° in flexion and their Constant score improved by 29.4 points. This difference may have been due to failure of the rotator cuff in 75% of the patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Thus a third-generation total shoulder replacement gives an excellent result in patients with osteoarthritis and an intact rotator cuff. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis have a 75% risk of failure of the rotator cuff at ten years.

We describe 129 consecutive revision total hip replacements using a Charnley-Kerboull femoral component of standard length with impaction allografting. The mean follow-up was 8.2 years (2 to 16). Additionally, extramedullary reinforcement was performed using struts of cortical allograft in 49 hips and cerclage wires in 30.

There was one intra-operative fracture of the femur but none later. Two femoral components subsided by 5 mm and 8 mm respectively, and were considered to be radiological failures. No further revision of a femoral component was required. The rate of survival of the femoral component at nine years, using radiological failure as the endpoint, was 98%. Our study showed that impaction grafting in association with a Charnley-Kerboull femoral component has a low rate of subsidence. Reconstruction of deficiencies of distal bone with struts of cortical allograft appeared to be an efficient way of preventing postoperative femoral fracture for up to 16 years.

Successful healing of a nine-year tibial nonunion resistant to six previous surgical procedures was achieved by tissue engineering. We used autologous bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) expanded to 5 × 10⁶ cells after three weeks’ tissue culture. Calcium sulphate (CaSO₄) in pellet form was combined with these cells at operation. The nonunion was clinically and radiologically healed two months after implantation.

This is the description of on healing of a long-standing tibial nonunion by tissue engineering. The successful combination of BMSCs and CaSO₄ has not to our knowledge been reported in a clinical setting.

The management of patients with a painful total knee replacement requires careful assessment and a stepwise approach in order to diagnose the underlying pathology accurately. The management should include a multidisciplinary approach to the patient’s pain as well as addressing the underlying aetiology. Pain should be treated with appropriate analgesia, according to the analgesic ladder of the World Health Organisation. Special measures should be taken to identify and to treat any neuropathic pain. There are a number of intrinsic and extrinsic causes of a painful knee replacement which should be identified and treated early. Patients with unexplained pain and without any recognised pathology should be treated conservatively since they may improve over a period of time and rarely do so after a revision operation.

Deficiencies of acetabular bone stock at revision hip replacement were reconstructed with two different types of allograft using impaction bone grafting and a Burch-Schneider reinforcement ring. We compared a standard frozen non-irradiated bone bank allograft (group A) with a freeze-dried irradiated bone allograft, vitalised with autologous marrow (group B). We studied 78 patients (79 hips), of whom 87% (69 hips) had type III acetabular defects according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons classification at a mean of 31.4 months (14 to 51) after surgery. At the latest follow-up, the mean Harris hip score was 69.9 points (13.5 to 97.1) in group A and 71.0 points (11.5 to 96.5) in group B. Each hip showed evidence of trabeculation and incorporation of the allograft with no acetabular loosening.

These results suggest that the use of an acetabular reinforcement ring and a living composite of sterile allograft and autologous marrow appears to be a method of reconstructing acetabular deficiencies which gives comparable results to current forms of treatment.

The dysplasia cup, which was devised as an adjunct to the Birmingham Hip Resurfacing system, has a hydroxyapatite-coated porous surface and two supplementary neutralisation screws to provide stable primary fixation, permit early weight-bearing, and allow incorporation of morcellised autograft without the need for structural bone grafting.

A total of 110 consecutive dysplasia resurfacing arthroplasties in 103 patients (55 men and 48 women) performed between 1997 and 2000 was reviewed with a minimum follow-up of six years. The mean age at operation was 47.2 years (21 to 62) and 104 hips (94%) were Crowe grade II or III.

During the mean follow-up of 7.8 years (6 to 9.6), three hips (2.7%) were converted to a total hip replacement at a mean of 3.9 years (2 months to 8.1 years), giving a cumulative survival of 95.2% at nine years (95% confidence interval 89 to 100). The revisions were due to a fracture of the femoral neck, a collapse of the femoral head and a deep infection. There was no aseptic loosening or osteolysis of the acetabular component associated with either of the revisions performed for failure of the femoral component. No patient is awaiting a revision.

The median Oxford hip score in 98 patients with surviving hips at the final review was 13 and the 10th and the 90th percentiles were 12 and 23, respectively.

Between 1999 and 2005, 23 failed total ankle replacements were converted to arthrodeses. Three surgical techniques were used: tibiotalar arthrodesis with screw fixation, tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis with screw fixation, and tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis with an intramedullary nail. As experience was gained, the benefits and problems became apparent. Successful bony union was seen in 17 of the 23 ankles. The complication rate was higher in ankles where the loosening had caused extensive destruction of the body of the talus, usually in rheumatoid arthritis. In this situation we recommend tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis with an intramedullary nail. This technique can also be used when there is severe arthritic change in the subtalar joint. Arthrodesis of the tibiotalar joint alone using compression screws was generally possible in osteoarthritis because the destruction of the body of the talus was less extensive. Tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis fusion with compression screws has not been successful in our experience.

The outcome of tibial allograft reconstruction after resection of a tumour is inconsistent and has a high rate of failure. There are few reports on the use of tibial allografts in children with open growth plates. We performed 21 allograft reconstructions (16 osteoarticular, five intercalary) in 19 consecutive patients between seven and 17 years of age. Two had Ewing’s sarcoma, one an adamantinoma and 16 osteosarcoma, one with multifocal disease.

Five patients have died; the other 14 were free from disease at the time of follow-up. Six surviving patients (eight allograft reconstructions) continue to have good or excellent function at a mean of 59 months (14 to 132). One patient has poor function at 31 months. The other seven patients have a good or excellent function after additional procedures including exchange of the allograft and resurfacing or revision to an endoprosthesis at a mean of 101 months (43 to 198). The additional operations were performed at a mean of 47 months (20 to 84) after the first reconstruction.

With the use of allograft reconstruction in growing children, joints and growth plates may be preserved, at least partially. Although our results remain inconsistent, tibial allograft reconstruction in selected patients may restore complete and durable function of the limb.

We followed up 76 consecutive hips with symptomatic acetabular dysplasia treated by acetabular shelf augmentation for a mean period of 11 years. Survival analysis using conversion to hip replacement as an end-point was 86% at five years and 46% at ten years. Forty-four hips with slight or no narrowing of the joint space pre-operatively had a survival of 97% at five and 75% at ten years. This was significantly higher (p = 0.0007) than that of the 32 hips with moderate or severe narrowing of the joint-space, which was 76% at five and 22% at ten years. There was no significant relationship between survival and age (p = 0.37) or the pre- and post-operative centre-edge (p = 0.39) and acetabular angles (p = 0.85).

Shelf acetabuloplasty is a reliable, safe procedure offering medium-term symptomatic relief for adults with acetabular dysplasia. The best results were achieved in patients with mild and moderate dysplasia of the hip with little arthritis.

A reduced femoral offset in total hip replacement has been thought to be disadvantageous. We reviewed the results of 54 consecutive primary total hip replacements in 49 patients (mean age of 68 years) performed between August 1990 and December 1994, with a mean follow-up of 8.8 years (sd 2.1). The mean pre-operative femoral offset for these hips was 41 mm (sd 7.4). All patients received a low-offset Charnley stem and a polyethylene cup inserted by a single surgeon.

At their latest follow-up, surviving patients had a significant improvement in the performance of their hip. Three had undergone revision, one each for deep infection, recurrent dislocation and late pain with subluxation. No hips had been revised, or were at risk of revision, for aseptic loosening. The mean annual linear rate of wear was 0.2 mm (sd 0.08) for the whole group. There was no correlation between the pre-operative femoral offset and the post-operative rate of wear. Our survivorship estimate was 91% when revision for any reason was taken as an end-point, but 100% if aseptic loosening was considered as the end-point. Our study demonstrates that a low-offset femoral stem can produce good, medium-term results.