Introduction

The knee is the most commonly injured joint in sporting accidents, leading to substantial disability, time off work and morbidity (1). Treatment and assessment vary around the UK (2), whilst there remains a limited number of high-quality randomised controlled trials assessing first time, acute soft tissue knee injuries (3,4). As the clinical and financial burden rises (5), vital answers are required to improve prevention, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and delivery of care. In association with the James Lind Alliance, this BASK, BOSTAA and BOA supported prioritising exercise was undertaken over a year.

Methods

The James Lind Alliance methodology was followed; a modified nominal group technique was used in the final workshop. An initial survey invited patients and healthcare professionals to submit their uncertainties regarding soft tissue knee injury prevention, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and delivery of care. Seventy-four questions were formulated to encompass common concerns. These were checked against best available evidence. Following the interim survey, 27 questions were taken forward to the final workshop in January 2023, where they were discussed, ranked, and scored in multiple rounds of prioritisation by groups of healthcare professionals, patients, and carers.

Objectives

Congenital cruciate ligament deficiency is a rare condition that may occur in isolation or in association with longitudinal limb deficiencies such as fibular hemimelia or proximal femoral focal deficiency. Often anomalies of the menisci and their attachments can be very abnormal and impact on surgical management by standard techniques. Arthroscopic surgical knee reconstruction is undertaken to improve symptomatic instability and/or to stabilise and protect the knee for future planned limb lengthening surgery.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the arthroscopic findings of patients undergoing surgery for congenital cruciate ligament deficiency, and specifically to determine the frequency and types of meniscal anatomical variations seen in these cases.

Methods

Patients undergoing surgery for congenital cruciate ligament deficiency were identified from a prospectively collated database. Diagnosis was confirmed through review of the clinical notes and imaging. Operative notes and 4K saved arthroscopic images and video recordings for these cases were reviewed.

Introduction

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are one of the most common knee injuries amongst elite athletes and usually require an ACL reconstruction (ACLR) to enable return to sport. Secondary surgery can result in a longer rehabilitation period and often a

significant time away from sport which can have implications to the athlete including contract obligations and sponsorship. Advances in ACLR techniques and meniscal repair techniques as well as an awareness of meniscal root lesions, ramp lesions and lateral extraarticular procedures (LEAPs) during ACL surgery has improved outcomes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the rates of secondary surgery following the introduction of a systematic arthroscopic evaluation of the knee, improved meniscal repair techniques and the addition of a concomitant LEAP This systematic approach was introduced after October 2012 (10/2012).

Methods

Professional athletes who underwent primary ACLR with a minimum follow-up of 2 years were identified from the (blinded for review). Those who had undergone major concomitant procedures such as multi-ligament reconstruction or osteotomy were excluded. Analysis of the database and review of medical records identified athletes who had underwent secondary surgery procedures.

Introduction

The Tour de France, commonly recognised and the hardest physical endurance event on the planet, is an iconic cycling competition with a history of ever impressive performances and increasingly notable injuries. This study aims to methodologically catalogue and analyse injuries sustained by professional riders over a span of six years and understand the operative workload created by this prestigious race. (2018–2023).

Methods

Data was gathered from multiple publicly available sources, including pro-cycling stats, news articles, team press releases and independent medical reports. Each injury was categorized by year, rider, and injury type.

Introduction

To evaluate career length after surgical treatment of combined ACL + medial collateral ligament (MCL) and ACL +posterolateral corner (PLC) surgeries in all elite athletes. Secondly, in a subgroup of male professional footballers to determine career length and competition level after ACL+MCL or ACL+PLC reconstructions and compare this to a cohort who underwent isolated ACL reconstruction (ACL-R) alone.

Methods

A consecutive cohort of elite athletes undergoing combined ACL+MCL surgery and combined ACL+PLC surgery between February 2001 and October 2019 were analysed. A subgroup of male footballers from this population was compared to a previously identified cohort of male, professional footballers having had primary ACL reconstruction without other ligament surgery. A minimum 2-years follow-up was required. Outcome measures were career length and competition level.

Introduction

Anterior tibial translation (ATT) is assessed in the acutely injured knee to investigate for ligamentous injury and rotational laxity. Specifically, there is a growing recognition of the significance of anterior medial rotary laxity (AMRI) as a crucial element in assessing knee stability. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are often accompanied with medial collateral ligament (MCL) damage. It has been suggested that Deep MCL (dMCL) fibres are a primary restraint in rotational displacement. This research aims to quantify the difference in rotational laxity of patients with ACL and MCL injuries to deem if the Feagin-Thomas test can robustly capture metrics of AMRI. 2.

Methods

AMRI was assessed using the Feagin-Thomas test in 7 isolated ACL (iACL) injured participants, 3 combined ACL and superficial fibre MCL (sMCL) injuries, 5 combined ACL and deep fibre MCL injuries, and 21 healthy controls. Displacement values were recorded using an optical motion capture (OMC) system and bespoke processing pipeline which map and model the knee's anterior displacement values relative to the medial compartment. Since absolute values (mm) of rotational laxity vary dependant on the person, values were recorded as a proportion of the rotational laxity obtained from the subject's contralateral leg. Values were compared between each patient group using an ANOVA test and Tukey's honesty significant difference post hoc test. 3.

Introduction

To determine if elite athletes can return to professional sport after MCL or posterolateral (PLC) reconstruction using LARS ligaments. The secondary aims are to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of LARS by reporting sport longevity, subsequent surgeries, and complications.

Methods

A retrospective review of all extra-articular knee ligament reconstructions, utilising a LARS synthetic ligament, by 3 sports knee surgeons between 2013 and 2020 was undertaken. All elite athletes aged over 16 years and a minimum of 2 years post reconstruction were included. No LARS were used for ACL reconstructions, and they were excluded if a LARS ligament was used for a PCL reconstruction. Return to play (RTP) was defined as competing at professional level or national/ international level in amateur sport.

Introduction

Osteochondral lesions (OCLs) of the talus are a challenging and increasingly recognized problem in chronic ankle pain. Many novel techniques exist to attempt to treat this challenging entity. Difficulties associated with treating OCLs include lesion location, size, chronicity, and problems associated with potential graft harvest sites. Matrix associated stem cell transplantation (MAST) is one such treatment described for larger lesions >15mm2 or failed alternative therapies. This cohort study describes a medium-term review of the outcomes of talar lesions treated with MAST.

Methods

A review of all patients treated with MAST by a single surgeon was conducted. Preoperative radiographs, MRIs and FAOS outcome questionnaire scores were conducted. Intraoperative classification was undertaken to correlate with imaging. Postoperative outcomes included FAOS scores, return to sport, revision surgery/failure of treatment and progression to arthritis/fusion surgery.

Introduction

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLr) is the most widely published operation in the orthopaedic literature. Over recent years there has been increased interest in the surgical technique and role of concomitant procedures performed during ACLr. The National Ligament Registry (NLR) collects robust data on ACLr performed in the UK. In this registry analysis we explore trends in ACLr surgery and how they relate to published literature and the growing industry portfolio available to surgeons.

Methods

Using data from the NLR, 14,352 ACLr performed between 2013–2021 were analysed. High impact papers on ACLr were then cross referenced against this data to see if surgical practice was influenced by literature or whether surgical practice dictated publication. Common trends were also compared to key surgical industry portfolios (Arthrex, Smith and Nephew) to see how new technology influenced surgical practice.

Introduction

Over the past 30 years multiple wars and embargos have reduced healthcare resources, infrastructure, and staff in Iraq. Subsequently, there are a lack of physiotherapists to provide rehabilitation after an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The implementation of home-based rehabilitation programmes may provide a potential solution to this problem. This study, set in in the Kurdistan region of Iraq, describes the epidemiology and outcomes of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) followed by home-based rehabilitation alone.

Methods

A cohort observational study of patients aged ≥ 16 years with an ACL rupture who underwent an ACLR under a single surgeon. This was performed arthroscopically using a hamstring autograft (2 portal technique). Patients completed a home-based rehabilitation programme of appropriate simplicity for the home setting. The programme consisted of stretching, range of motion and strengthening exercises based on criterion rehabilitation progressions. A full description of the programme is provided at: https://ngmvcharity.co.uk/.

Demographics, mechanisms of injury, operative findings, and outcome data (Lysholm, Tegner Activity Scale (TAS), and revision rates) were collected from 2016 to 2021. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics.

Introduction

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury prevention programs can reduce injury risk in various sports. The perception of ACL injury prevention programs amongst professional netball players and coaches has not been studied. The purpose of the study was to determine (1) level of awareness and experience of ACL injury prevention programs; (2) use of ACL injury prevention programs; and (3) barriers and potential facilitators to implementing a sustainable ACL injury prevention program in netball.

Methods

This cross-sectional observational study was undertaken using the CHERRIES checklist. Female netball players representing Welsh senior and under-21 teams and elite and amateur coaches were invited electronically to participate in this web-based study between 1st May – 31st July 2021. Information on ACL injury susceptibility and seriousness, knowledge, experience, and implementation of ACL injury prevention programs were ascertained.

Introduction

Patellofemoral instability is one of the most common presentations to a children's orthopaedic clinic. Recurrent patellar dislocations and instability episodes are painful, disabling and increase the risk of irreversible chondral damage. The medial patellofemoral ligament is the primary static stabiliser to prevent lateral dislocation of the patella and is almost always torn or attenuated in these cases. Reconstruction of this ligament is commonly performed using autologous hamstring tendon however there has been some interest recently in use of quadriceps tendon as a graft. Children with patellar instability also present unique challenges due to the small size of the patella and the presence of open growth plates which may require adaptations to the common techniques.

Methods

Patients undergoing medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction using quadriceps tendon autograft were identified using electronic theatre records. Prospectively collected clinical records and imaging findings were reviewed and underlying pathology, additional procedures at time of MPFL reconstruction, current function and need for further revision surgery determined.

Introduction

We aim to assess whether radiographic characteristics of the greater tuberosity fragment can predict rotator cuff tears inpatients with anterior shoulder dislocations combined with an isolated fracture of the greater tuberosity.

Methods

A retrospective single-centre case series of 61 consecutive patients that presented with anterior shoulder dislocations combined with an isolated fracture of the greater tuberosity between January 2018 and July 2022. Inclusion criteria: patients with atraumatic anterior shoulder dislocation associated with an isolated fracture of the greater tuberosity with a minimum follow-up of 3-months. Exclusion criteria: patients with other fractures of the proximal humerus or glenoid. Rotator cuff tears were diagnosed using magnetic resonance or ultrasound imaging. Greater tuberosity fragment size and displacement was calculated on plain radiographs using validated methods.

Introduction

It has been contentious whether an anatomic double-bundle technique for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR)is superior to that of a single-bundle technique. It has been hypothesized in the literature that the double-bundle technique could provide function closer to that of the anatomical knee joint. The purpose of this study was to compare the long-term clinical outcomes after single-bundle ACLR versus double-bundle ACLR. We hypothesized that the double-bundle technique would not be superior to the single-bundle technique.

Methods

A retrospective, non-randomized, matched-paired comparative study was performed. Patients undergoing primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, using either a double-bundle or single-bundle technique, between 2003 and 2008 were included and matched 1:1. Matching included age, sex, BMI, time from injury to surgery, side of injury and type of sport. Patients who underwent revision procedures, multiligament reconstruction or other ACLR techniques were excluded. Patients were subsequently followed up, noting occurrence of graft rupture and any other complications.

Introduction

Chronic ankle instability is a common condition that can be effectively treated with arthroscopic lateral ankle ligament reconstruction to restore ankle stability and function. The aim of this study was to assess the functional outcomes of arthroscopic lateral ligament reconstruction using the MOXFQ, VAS, and EQ5D patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs).

Methods

This prospective series included 38 patients who underwent arthroscopic lateral ligament reconstruction for chronic ankle instability between December 2019 and April 2022. All patients completed the MOXFQ, VAS, and EQ5D PROMs preoperatively, as well as at6, and 12 months postoperatively. The MOXFQ is a disease-specific PROM that assesses foot and ankle function, while the VAS measures pain and the EQ5D evaluates health-related quality of life.

Introduction

Knee arthroscopy can be used for ligamentous repair, reconstruction and to reduce burden of infection. Understanding and feeling confident with knee arthroscopy is therefore a highly important skillset for the orthopaedic surgeon. However, with limited training or experience, furthered by reduced practical education due to COVID-19, this skill can be under-developed amongst trainee surgeons.

Methods

At a single institution, ten junior doctors (FY1 to CT2), were recruited as a part of a five, two-hour session, training programme utilising the Simbionix® ARTHRO Mentor knee arthroscopy simulator, supplemented alongside educational guidance with a consultant orthopaedic knee surgeon. All students had minimal to no levels of prior arthroscopic experience. Exercises completed included maintaining steadiness, image centring and orientation, probe triangulation, arthroscopic knee examination, removal of loose bodies and meniscectomy. Pre and post experience questionnaires and quantitative repeat analysis on simulation exercises were undertaken to identify levels of improvement.

Introduction

Trochleoplasty is an effective surgical procedure for patients with severe trochlear dysplasia and recurrent patella instability. Previous work has suggested patients demonstrate early improvements in knee function and quality of life. However, concerns regarding longer term outcomes due to the development of stiffness and patellofemoral osteoarthritis remain a concern for these patients. Our aim was to assess mid-term patient-reported outcome and quality of life measures for trochleoplasty performed at a single centre for severe trochlear dysplasia.

Methods

Retrospective review of 28 knees (23 patients) having undergone trochleoplasty for severe trochlear dysplasia were reviewed. Due to the non-parametric nature of the data, median and interquartile range (IQR) were determined for pre-operative and mid-term follow-up scores. Statistically significant differences between groups were assessed using paired Wilcoxon-signed rank test with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Data were analysed using a statistical software package (IBM® SPSS® Statistics 26.0).

Introduction

Activity scales are used throughout orthopaedics as a component of PROMs. Tegner Activity Scale is commonly used and is validated in various knee injuries in adults. It has a reading age of 18 years presenting an understanding problem for children. An alternative is HSS-PediFABS, but this looks at specific skills like running, cutting, pivoting rather than sporting level. Our aim was to determine if children understood TAS and whether their answers compared to how their parents scored them and determine if our suggested sporting levels were more appropriate for them.

Method

We created a study form to compare levels given by children and their parent. We added our own suggested levels, with a reading age of 9, created by a discussion group of paediatric orthopaedic surgeons. Following ethics approval, a sample size was determined via power calculation. All patients over 7 and their parents presenting to the orthopaedic clinic at SCH over a 4-month period were asked to fill out the TAS, baseline questions and rank the new suggested sporting levels.