Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy: Indications, Outcomes, and Complications

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO) is a versatile surgical technique used to treat a range of patellofemoral disorders, including patellar instability, painful malalignment, focal chondral defects, and patellar maltracking that have failed conservative therapies. TTO is a personalized procedure that can be tailored to the pathoanatomy of the patient based on physical examination and imaging. The complication rate associated with TTO strongly depends on the indication for surgery, the severity of the patient's condition, and the surgical approach. Despite the literature on TTO, to our knowledge, no single source has addressed the indications, techniques, outcomes, and complications of this procedure. The purpose of this article is to serve as such a valuable resource.

RECENT FINDINGS

Highlights from recent studies we would like to emphasize are two-fold. First, maintaining a distal cortical hinge yields lower complication rates than osteotomies involving complete tubercle detachment with classic or standard techniques. Second, based on current evidence, TTO consistently provides symptomatic relief, and most patients can return to work or sport at their pre-operative level within 3 and 6 months, respectively. TTO is a personalizable surgical technique that may be utilized for multiple patellofemoral disorders and is associated with good outcomes.

Tibial Spine Avulsion Fracture Fixation Using a Re-tensionable All-Suture Construct

Tibial spine avulsion injuries, including fractures, are a variant of anterior cruciate ligament injuries. Treatment historically consisted of open reduction and internal fixation of the avulsion fracture, with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction considered in cases of failed open reduction and internal fixation or residual laxity. However, improved instrumentation has led to the advancement of various arthroscopic techniques for addressing these injuries. The emergence of newer implants designed for all-suture fixation has also overcome the limitations associated with screw fixation, such as hardware-related complications, challenges in treating comminuted fractures, and potential physeal injury. The purpose of this article is to describe a technique consisting of arthroscopic-assisted reduction and internal fixation of a tibial spine avulsion fracture with a re-tensionable all-suture-based construct using multiple looped cinch stitches and a cortical suspensory suture button device.

Posterior Meniscus Root Repair Using a Retensionable Knotless All-Suture Anchor

Meniscus root injuries lead to increased tibiofemoral contact pressures and rapid progression of osteoarthritis. Early recognition and treatment with a meniscal root repair can restore biomechanics and help preserve the joint. The transtibial pullout repair and suture anchor repair are the most commonly used techniques to achieve anatomic fixation of the meniscal root. Still, each method presents distinct advantages and disadvantages. This Technical Note aims to describe a vastly simplified, more efficient, and reproducible posterior lateral meniscal root repair using a retensionable knotless all-suture anchor.

MRI-derived Articular Cartilage Strains Predict Patient-Reported Outcomes Six Months Post Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Key terms

Multicontrast and Multiparametric, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Osteoarthritis, Functional Biomechanical Imaging, Knee Joint Degeneration What is known about the subject: dualMRI has been used to quantify strains in a healthy human population in vivo and in cartilage explant models. Previously, OA severity, as determined by histology, has been positively correlated to increased shear and transverse strains in cartilage explants. What this study adds to existing knowledge: This is the first in vivo use of dualMRI in a participant demographic post-ACL reconstruction and at risk for developing osteoarthritis. This study shows that dualMRI-derived strains are more significantly correlated with patient-reported outcomes than any MRI relaxometry metric.

Background

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries lead to an increased risk of osteoarthritis, characterized by altered cartilage tissue structure and function. Displacements under applied loading by magnetic resonance imaging (dualMRI) is a novel MRI technique that can be used to quantify mechanical strain in cartilage while undergoing a physiological load.

Purpose

To determine if strains derived by dualMRI and relaxometry measures correlate with patient-reported outcomes at six months post unilateral ACL reconstruction.

Study Design

Cohort study.

Methods

Quantitative MRI (T2, T2*, T1ρ) measurements and transverse, axial, and shear strains were quantified in the medial articular tibiofemoral cartilage of 35 participants at six-months post unilateral ACL reconstruction. The relationships between patient-reported outcomes (WOMAC, KOOS, MARS) and all qMRI relaxation times were quantified using general linear mixed-effects models. A combined best-fit multicontrast MRI model was then developed using backwards regression to determine the patient features and MRI metrics that are most predictive of patient-reported outcome scores.

Results

Higher femoral strains were significantly correlated with worse patient-reported functional outcomes. Femoral shear and transverse strains were positively correlated with six-month KOOS and WOMAC scores, after controlling for covariates. No relaxometry measures were correlated with patient-reported outcome scores. We identified the best-fit model for predicting WOMAC score using multiple MRI measures and patient-specific information, including sex, age, graft type, femoral transverse strain, femoral axial strain, and femoral shear strain. The best-fit model significantly predicted WOMAC score (p<0.001) better than any one individual MRI metric alone. When we regressed the model-predicted WOMAC scores against the patient-reported WOMAC scores, we found that our model achieved a goodness of fit exceeding 0.52.

Conclusions

This work presents the first use of dualMRI in vivo in a cohort of participants at risk for developing osteoarthritis. Our results indicate that both shear and transverse strains are highly correlated with patient-reported outcome severity could serve as novel imaging biomarkers to predict the development of osteoarthritis.

Decay-Accelerating Factor Differentially Associates With Complement-Mediated Damage in Synovium After Meniscus Tear as Compared to Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury

We have reported that anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury leads to the differential dysregulation of the complement system in the synovium as compared to meniscus tear (MT) and proposed this as a mechanism for a greater post-injury prevalence of post traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). To explore additional roles of complement proteins and regulators, we determined the presence of decay-accelerating factor (DAF), C5b, and membrane attack complexes (MACs, C5b-9) in discarded surgical synovial tissue (DSST) collected during arthroscopic ACL reconstructive surgery, MT-related meniscectomy, osteoarthritis (OA)-related knee replacement surgery and normal controls. Multiplexed immunohistochemistry was used to detect and quantify complement proteins. To explore the involvement of body mass index (BMI), after these 2 injuries, we examined correlations among DAF, C5b, MAC and BMI. Using these approaches, we found that synovial cells after ACL injury expressed a significantly lower level of DAF as compared to MT (p<0.049). In contrast, C5b staining synovial cells were significantly higher after ACL injury (p<0.0009) and in OA DSST (p<0.039) compared to MT. Interestingly, there were significantly positive correlations between DAF & C5b (r=0.75, p<0.018) and DAF & C5b (r=0.64 p<0.022) after ACL injury and MT, respectively. The data support that DAF, which should normally dampen C5b deposition due to its regulatory activities on C3/C5 convertases, does not appear to exhibit that function in inflamed synovia following either ACL injury or MT. Ineffective DAF regulation may be an additional mechanism by which relatively uncontrolled complement activation damages tissue in these injury states.

Most Orthopaedic Platelet-Rich Plasma Investigations Don't Report Protocols and Composition: An Updated Systematic Review

PURPOSE

To systematically review the literature to assess the heterogeneity of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) preparation and composition reporting for the treatment of musculoskeletal/orthopaedic pathologies.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed by searching PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Embase to identify Level I and Level II studies from 2016 to 2022 that evaluated the use of PRP therapy for musculoskeletal pathologies. The search phrase used was "platelet-rich plasma clinical studies." Studies were assessed based on their reporting of the PRP preparation methods and reporting of PRP composition.

RESULTS

One hundred twenty-four studies (in 120 articles) met inclusion criteria for analysis. Of these studies, 15 (12.1%) provided comprehensive reporting, including a clear, well-described, and reproducible preparation protocol that future investigators can follow. Thirty-three studies (26.6%) quantitatively reported the final PRP product composition.

CONCLUSIONS

Among the studies using PRP for the treatment of musculoskeletal/orthopaedic pathologies, less than 20% provided a clear, well-described, and reproducible PRP preparation protocol, and only one-fourth of studies reported on the final PRP product composition.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

A diverse current reporting of PRP composition between studies provides a high heterogeneity of the term "PRP," which becomes a limitation for a comparison of studies using PRP.

Editorial Commentary: Meniscus Repair Technique Must Be Determined on a Tear-by-Tear Basis: Hybrid Techniques Plus Biologics Are Optimal

Bucket-handle meniscus tears alter knee biomechanics and significantly elevate the risk of osteoarthritis when the tissue is not preserved. Consequentially, meniscus repair is preferred whenever possible to optimize load distribution and knee stability, with the overall goal of joint preservation. Bucket-handle meniscus tears have a higher rate of repair failure compared with many other tear patterns, and both the inside-out (IO) and all-inside (AI) techniques are acceptable options, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages. Both have demonstrated improved clinical outcomes with similar failure rates. IO is cost-effective and allows less meniscal trauma due to small-diameter needles, whereas disadvantages include increased surgical time, increased risk of infection, and the need for 1 or more skilled assistants. AI avoids extra incisions and extra assistants and shows decreased surgical time, whereas complications can include hardware irritation, chondral and neurovascular injury (particularly for posterolateral repairs), and motion loss. Hybrid repair using AI for posterior tears and IO for middle-third and outside-in for the anterior meniscus is cost-effective and efficacious. Biologics to promote healing through mechanical stimulation of the tear surfaces, notch marrow venting, trephination, and/or platelet-rich plasma can optimize the repair.

Micro-Fragmented Adipose Tissue Demonstrates Comparable Clinical Efficacy to Other Orthobiologic Injections in Treating Symptomatic Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review of Level I to IV Clinical Studies

PURPOSE

To perform a systematic review of clinical outcomes in patients who underwent treatment with micro-fragmented aspirated tissue for symptoms of knee osteoarthritis.

METHODS

Medline, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar were screened for studies from 2000 to 2023. Risk of bias (ROB) was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration's tools and the Risk Of Bias In Non-randomised Studies-of Interventions tool. Study quality was assessed with the modified Coleman Methodology Score and Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies score. Heterogeneity was assessed using χ2 and I2 statistics.

RESULTS

Twenty-one studies were included. One study had a high ROB, 1 had a critical ROB, 3 had serious ROB, and 16 had a moderate ROB. The mean Coleman score was 58, demonstrating fair study quality; the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies score had a mean value of 13, indicating overall fair quality. Best evidence synthesis revealed moderate evidence. The visual analog scale score improved from 5.2 to 3.2 at 6 and 12 months. Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) activities of daily living subscore improved from 58.8 to 70.2 at 6 months and 67.5 at 12 months. KOOS pain subscore improved from 54.3 to 70.2 at 6 months and 72.4 at 12 months. KOOS quality of life subscore improved from 33.1 to 43.6 at 6 months and 42.9 at 12 months. KOOS sports subscore improved from 23.7 to 43.6 at 6 months and 57.4 at 12 months. KOOS symptoms subscore improved from 55.3 to 70.1 at 6 months and 67.9 at 12 months. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index score steadily increased from 61.8 at baseline to 78.4 at 12 months.

CONCLUSIONS

micro-fragmented aspirated tissue injection therapy for the treatment of symptomatic knee osteoarthritis is effective and improves pain and functional outcomes. Moderate study quality combined with a moderate risk of bias, moderate certainty of evidence, and moderate best synthesis evidence reduces external validity. Therefore, the results should be interpreted with a degree of caution.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, systematic review of Level I-IV studies.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Repair Using a Re-tensionable All-Suture Construct

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears are among the most common injuries to the knee. With recent improvements in imaging that allow for more precise identification of ACL tear patterns, improved techniques for repair, and advancements in biological augmentation, there has been a re-emerging interest in primary ACL repair, especially for acute proximal ACL tears. This article aims to describe a surgical technique for primary ACL repair using a re-tensionable all-suture-based construct.

Patient Perception of Social Media Use by Orthopaedic Surgeons: A Pilot Study

Background

Social media (SM) use by orthopaedic surgeons is becoming increasingly common; nonetheless, it needs to be clarified how patients perceive the content posted by physicians.

Purpose

To characterize SM content posted by orthopaedic surgeons while investigating patient perceptions of this content and how it may influence their health care decisions.

Study Design

Cross-sectional study.

Methods

Posts on SM outlets by orthopaedic surgeons were reviewed and categorized. A survey to assess patient perception of these categories was administered between December 2021 and February 2022 in the clinics of 3 orthopaedic surgeons. Survey results were analyzed for differences in patient SM use and perception of SM content types.

Results

There were 250 completed surveys. SM use was high among all age groups; however, the 18 to 24 years (87.1%) and 25 to 34 years (86.4%) age groups were more likely than older age groups to report daily use (P = .002). Overall, 17% of patients reported using SM to see information about their health care at least once per month, 21% reported reviewing the SM account of a physician at least once per month, 19% reported that they were likely or very likely to view the SM account of their physician, and 23% reported that SM content was likely or very likely to influence which physician they see. Patients held the most consistently positive view of posts that educated patients, discussed sports team coverage, and provided patient testimonials. Patients had consistently neutral views of posts educating colleagues, discussing presentations at national meetings, displaying aspects of surgeons' personal lives, and supporting marginalized groups. Several post categories elicited highly polarized responses-including those discussing research publications and showing surgical techniques or pictures/videos taken during surgery. Respondents had a consistently negative response to posts making political statements.

Conclusion

SM is likely a useful tool to help physicians interact with patients. Physicians who wish to interact with patients should consider posting content viewed most positively-including posts educating patients, discussing sports team coverage, and providing patient testimonials. Content that is viewed less favorably should be posted sparingly or with a sensitive tag.

Autograft Demonstrates Superior Outcomes for Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction When Compared With Allograft: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Multiple studies have compared outcomes among patients undergoing revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) with autograft versus allograft, but these data are inconsistently reported and long-term outcomes depending on graft type are yet to be determined.

PURPOSE

To perform a systematic review of clinical outcomes after revision ACLR (rACLR) with autograft versus allograft.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was performed by searching PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Embase to identify studies that compared the outcomes of patients undergoing rACLR with autograft versus allograft. The search phrase used was autograft allograft revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Graft rerupture rates, return-to-sports rates, anteroposterior laxity, and patient-reported outcome scores (subjective International Knee Documentation Committee, Tegner, Lysholm, and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score) were evaluated.

RESULTS

Eleven studies met inclusion criteria, including 3011 patients undergoing rACLR with autograft (mean age, 28.9 years) and 1238 patients undergoing rACLR with allograft (mean age, 28.0 years). Mean follow-up was 57.3 months. The most common autograft and allograft types were bone-patellar tendon-bone grafts. Overall, 6.2% of patients undergoing rACLR experienced graft retear, including 4.7% in the autograft group and 10.2% in the allograft group (P < .0001). Among studies that reported return-to-sports rates, 66.2% of patients with an autograft returned to sports as opposed to 45.3% of patients with an allograft (P = .01). Two studies found significantly greater postoperative knee laxity in the allograft group as compared with the autograft group (P < .05). Among all patient-reported outcomes, 1 study found 1 significant difference between groups: patients with an autograft had a significantly higher postoperative Lysholm score when compared with patients with an allograft.

CONCLUSION

Patients undergoing revision ACLR with an autograft can be expected to experience lower rates of graft retear, higher rates of return to sports, and less postoperative anteroposterior knee laxity when compared with patients undergoing revision ACLR with an allograft.

Immobilization in External Rotation Versus Arthroscopic Stabilization After Primary Anterior Shoulder Dislocation: A Systematic Review of Level 1 and 2 Studies

BACKGROUND

Arthroscopic stabilization has been established as a superior treatment option for primary glenohumeral instability when compared with immobilization in internal rotation. However, immobilization in external rotation (ER) has recently gained interest as a viable nonoperative treatment option for patients with shoulder instability.

PURPOSE

To compare the rates of recurrent instability and subsequent surgery in patients undergoing treatment for primary anterior shoulder dislocation with arthroscopic stabilization versus immobilization in ER.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed by searching PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Embase to identify studies that'evaluated patients being treated for primary anterior glenohumeral dislocation with either arthroscopic stabilization or immobilization in ER. The search phrase used various combinations of the keywords/phrases "primary closed reduction,""anterior shoulder dislocation,""traumatic,""primary,""treatment,""management,""immobilization,""external rotation,""surgical,""operative,""nonoperative," and "conservative." Inclusion criteria included patients undergoing treatment for primary anterior glenohumeral joint dislocation with either immobilization in ER or arthroscopic stabilization. Rates of recurrent instability, subsequent stabilization surgery, return to sports, positive postintervention apprehension tests, and patient-reported outcomes were evaluated.

RESULTS

The 30 studies that met inclusion criteria included 760 patients undergoing arthroscopic stabilization (mean age, 23.1 years; mean follow-up time, 55.1 months) and 409 patients undergoing immobilization in ER (mean age, 29.8 years; mean follow-up time, 28.8 months). Overall, 8.8% of operative patients experienced recurrent instability at latest follow-up compared with 21.3% of patients who had undergone ER immobilization (P < .0001). Similarly, 5.7% of operative patients had undergone a subsequent stabilization procedure at latest follow-up compared with 11.3% of patients who had undergone ER immobilization (P = .0015). A higher rate of return to sports was found in the operative group (P < .05), but no other differences were found between groups.

CONCLUSION

Patients undergoing arthroscopic treatment for primary anterior glenohumeral dislocation with arthroscopic stabilization can be expected to experience significantly lower rates of recurrent instability and subsequent stabilization procedures compared with patients undergoing ER immobilization.

Experts Achieve Consensus on a Majority of Statements Regarding Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatments for Treatment of Musculoskeletal Pathology

PURPOSE

To establish consensus statements on platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for the treatment of musculoskeletal pathologies.

METHODS

A consensus process on the treatment of PRP using a modified Delphi technique was conducted. Thirty-five orthopaedic surgeons and sports medicine physicians participated in these consensus statements on PRP. The participants were composed of representatives of the Biologic Association, representing 9 international orthopaedic and musculoskeletal professional societies invited due to their active interest in the study of orthobiologics. Consensus was defined as achieving 80% to 89% agreement, strong consensus was defined as 90% to 99% agreement, and unanimous consensus was indicated by 100% agreement with a proposed statement.

RESULTS

There was consensus on 62% of statements about PRP.

CONCLUSIONS

(1) PRP should be classified based on platelet count, leukocyte count, red blood count, activation method, and pure-plasma versus fibrin matrix; (2) PRP characteristics for reporting in research studies are platelet count, leukocyte count, neutrophil count, red blood cell count, total volume, the volume of injection, delivery method, and the number of injections; (3) the prognostic factors for those undergoing PRP injections are age, body mass index, severity/grade of pathology, chronicity of pathology, prior injections and response, primary diagnosis (primary vs postsurgery vs post-trauma vs psoriatic), comorbidities, and smoking; (4) regarding age and body mass index, there is no minimum or maximum, but clinical judgment should be used at extremes of either; (5) the ideal dose of PRP is undetermined; and (6) the minimal volume required is unclear and may depend on the pathology.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level V, expert opinion.

Return to Sports Following Sports-Related Concussion in Collision Sports: An Expert Consensus Statement Using the Modified Delphi Technique

PURPOSE

To perform a Delphi consensus for return to sports (RTS) following sports-related concussion (SRC).

METHODS

Open-ended questions in rounds 1 and 2 were answered. The results of the first 2 rounds were used to develop a Likert-style questionnaire for round 3. If agreement at round 3 was ≤80% for an item, if panel members were outside consensus or there were >30% neither agree/disagree responses, the results were carried forward into round 4. The level of agreement and consensus was defined as 90%.

RESULTS

Individualized graduated RTS protocols should be used. A normal clinical, ocular and balance examination with no more headaches, and asymptomatic exertional test allows RTS. Earlier RTS can be considered if athletes are symptom free. The Sports Concussion Assessment Tool 5 and vestibular and ocular motor screening are recognized as useful tools to assist in decision-making. Ultimately RTS is a clinical decision. Baseline assessments should be performed at both collegiate and professional level and a combination of neurocognitive and clinical tests should be used. A specific number of recurrent concussions for season-or career-ending decisions could not be determined but will affect decision making for RTS.

CONCLUSIONS

Consensus was achieved for 10 of the 25 RTS criteria: early RTS can be considered earlier than 48 to 72 hours if athletes are completely symptom-free with no headaches, a normal clinical, ocular and balance examination. A graduated RTS should be used but should be individualized. Only 2 of the 9 assessment tools were considered to be useful: Sports Concussion Assessment Tool 5 and vestibular and ocular motor screening. RTS is mainly a clinical decision. Only 31% of the baseline assessment items achieved consensus: baseline assessments should be performed at collegiate and professional levels using a combination of neurocognitive and clinical tests. The panel disagreed on the number of recurrent concussions that should be season- or career-ending.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level V, expert Opinion.

On-Field and Pitch-Side (Sideline) Assessment of Sports Concussion in Collision Sports: An Expert Consensus Statement Using the Modified Delphi Technique

PURPOSE

To perform a Delphi consensus for on-field and pitch-side assessment of sports-related concussion (SRC).

METHODS

Open-ended questions in rounds 1 and 2 were answered. The results of the first 2 rounds were used to develop a Likert-style questionnaire for round 3. If agreement at round 3 was ≤80% for an item, if panel members were outside consensus, or there were >30% neither agree/disagree responses, the results were carried forward into round 4. The level of agreement and consensus was defined as 90%.

RESULTS

Loss of consciousness (LOC) or suspected LOC, motor incoordination/ataxia, balance disturbance, confusion/disorientation, memory disturbance/amnesia, blurred vision/light sensitivity, irritability, slurred speech, slow reaction time, lying motionless, dizziness, headaches/pressure in the head, falling to the ground with no protective action, slow to get up after a hit, dazed look, and posturing/seizures were clinical signs of SRC and indicate removal from play. Video assessment is helpful but should not replace clinical judgment. LOC/unresponsiveness, signs of cervical spine injury, suspicion of other fractures (skull/maxillo-facial), seizures, Glasgow Coma Scale score <14 and abnormal neurologic examination findings are indications for hospitalization. Return to play should only be considered when no clinical signs of SRC are present. Every suspected concussion should be referred to an experienced physician.

CONCLUSIONS

Consensus was achieved for 85% of the clinical signs indicating concussion. On-field and pitch-side assessment should include the observation of the mechanism, a clinical examination, and cervical spine assessment. Of the 19 signs and red flags requiring removal from play, consensus was reached for 74%. Normal clinical examination and HIA with no signs of concussion allow return to play. Video assessment should be mandatory for professional games but should not replace clinical decision-making. Sports Concussion Assessment Tool, Glasgow Coma Scale, vestibular/ocular motor screening, Head Injury Assessment Criteria 1, and Maddocks questions are useful tools. Guidelines are helpful for non-health professionals.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level V, expert opinion.

Arthroscopic Simulation-Based Training of Orthopaedic Surgery Residents: Past, Present, and Future

Simulation-based training is required by many medical specialties. Barriers, however, have prevented widespread implementation of simulators for arthroscopic training. The advantages of arthroscopic simulator-based training of residents include decreased errors, decreased cost of training, and improved patient care. Before an educational program can focus on the type of simulator, it is essential to have a validated curriculum and framework for how to use those simulators. One of the most validated systems is called proficiency-based progression training. Proficiency-based progression is essentially a paradigm in which basic skills must be mastered and demonstrated via objective evaluation, before moving on to more advanced skills. There are a variety of different validation methods and tools that have been described, with the Arthroscopic Surgical Skill Evaluation Tool being the most widely used tool. It is essential that any simulator has evidence and validation that it will ultimately improve surgical skills in the operating room. In the future, emerging technologies such as virtual reality, augmented reality, and three-dimensional printing will likely play a major role in the creation of newer simulators and may improve access to residents throughout the world.

Preparing for and Executing the Ideal Posterior Labral Repair

Posterior labral tears are a source of pain and instability of the shoulder. Despite being relatively uncommon (reported in approximately 10% of instability cases), the incidence of posterior labral tear is increasingly recognized as underestimated in highly active populations. Posterior labral tears can result from a traumatic posterior dislocation or repetitive microtrauma, leading to posterior chondral/labral attrition. Patients often present with vague, deep-seated shoulder discomfort rather than the sensation of instability. Unfavorable results with nonsurgical management will indicate which patients will most benefit from surgery. Arthroscopic stabilization has proven to be an effective and reliable treatment, and many techniques for posterior labral repair have been described. It is important to highlight the evaluation, preparation, and execution of arthroscopic stabilization of an isolated posterior labral repair using high-strength knotless all-suture anchors to allow for a stable, efficient, reproducible, and reliable repair while maintaining a low-profile construct that minimizes damage to the surrounding tissue.

A modified Delphi consensus statement on patellar instability: part II

Aims

The aim of this study was to establish consensus statements on medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction, anteromedialization tibial tubercle osteotomy, trochleoplasty, and rehabilitation and return to sporting activity in patients with patellar instability, using the modified Delphi process.

Methods

This was the second part of a study dealing with these aspects of management in these patients. As in part I, a total of 60 surgeons from 11 countries contributed to the development of consensus statements based on their expertise in this area. They were assigned to one of seven working groups defined by subtopics of interest. Consensus was defined as achieving between 80% and 89% agreement, strong consensus was defined as between 90% and 99% agreement, and 100% agreement was considered unanimous.

Results

Of 41 questions and statements on patellar instability, none achieved unanimous consensus, 19 achieved strong consensus, 15 achieved consensus, and seven did not achieve consensus.

Conclusion

Most statements reached some degree of consensus, without any achieving unanimous consensus. There was no consensus on the use of anchors in MPFL reconstruction, and the order of fixation of the graft (patella first versus femur first). There was also no consensus on the indications for trochleoplasty or its effect on the viability of the cartilage after elevation of the osteochondral flap. There was also no consensus on postoperative immobilization or weightbearing, or whether paediatric patients should avoid an early return to sport.

A modified Delphi consensus statement on patellar instability: part I

Aims

The aim of this study was to establish consensus statements on the diagnosis, nonoperative management, and indications, if any, for medial patellofemoral complex (MPFC) repair in patients with patellar instability, using the modified Delphi approach.

Methods

A total of 60 surgeons from 11 countries were invited to develop consensus statements based on their expertise in this area. They were assigned to one of seven working groups defined by subtopics of interest within patellar instability. Consensus was defined as achieving between 80% and 89% agreement, strong consensus was defined as between 90% and 99% agreement, and 100% agreement was considered to be unanimous.

Results

Of 27 questions and statements on patellar instability, three achieved unanimous consensus, 14 achieved strong consensus, five achieved consensus, and five did not achieve consensus.

Conclusion

The statements that reached unanimous consensus were that an assessment of physeal status is critical for paediatric patients with patellar instability. There was also unanimous consensus on early mobilization and resistance training following nonoperative management once there is no apprehension. The statements that did not achieve consensus were on the importance of immobilization of the knee, the use of orthobiologics in nonoperative management, the indications for MPFC repair, and whether a vastus medialis oblique advancement should be performed.

Arthroscopic Repair and Reconstruction of Coracoclavicular Ligament

Acromioclavicular joint separations are common shoulder injuries that require prompt recognition, diagnosis, and treatment. Deciding on a treatment algorithm relies on a detailed knowledge of anatomy and a thorough understanding of the specific functional demands of the patient in question. When a repair or reconstruction is indicated, arthroscopic assistance can be a helpful tool to ensure a safe, anatomic reconstruction that minimizes morbidity and maximizes the potential return to high-level function.

Factors Associated With Humeral Avulsion of Glenohumeral Ligament Lesions in Patients With Anterior Shoulder Instability: An Analysis of the MOON Shoulder Instability Cohort

Background

Humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) lesions are an uncommon cause of anterior glenohumeral instability and may occur in isolation or combination with other pathologies. As HAGL lesions are difficult to detect via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and arthroscopy, they can remain unrecognized and result in continued glenohumeral instability.

Purpose

To compare patients with anterior shoulder instability from a large multicenter cohort with and without a diagnosis of a HAGL lesion and identify preoperative physical examination findings, patient-reported outcomes, imaging findings, and surgical management trends associated with HAGL lesions.

Study Design

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

Patients with anterior glenohumeral instability who underwent surgical management between 2012 and 2020 at 11 orthopaedic centers were enrolled. Patients with HAGL lesions identified intraoperatively were compared with patients without HAGL lesions. Preoperative characteristics, physical examinations, imaging findings, intraoperative findings, and surgical procedures were collected. The Student t test, Kruskal-Wallis H test, Fisher exact test, and chi-square test were used to compare groups.

Results

A total of 21 HAGL lesions were identified in 915 (2.3%) patients; approximately one-third (28.6%) of all lesions were visualized intraoperatively but not identified on preoperative MRI. Baseline characteristics did not differ between study cohorts. Compared with non-HAGL patients, HAGL patients were less likely to have a Hill-Sachs lesion (54.7% vs 28.6%; P = .03) or an anterior labral tear (87.2% vs 66.7%; P = .01) on preoperative MRI and demonstrated increased external rotation when their affected arm was positioned at 90° of abduction (85° vs 90°; P = .03). Additionally, HAGL lesions were independently associated with an increased risk of undergoing an open stabilization surgery (odds ratio, 74.6 [95% CI, 25.2-221.1]; P < .001).

Conclusion

Approximately one-third of HAGL lesions were missed on preoperative MRI. HAGL patients were less likely to exhibit preoperative imaging findings associated with anterior shoulder instability, such as Hill-Sachs lesions or anterior labral pathology. These patients underwent open procedures more frequently than patients without HAGL lesions.

Development and Validation of a Short-Form Version of the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Scale (Short-WOSI)

BACKGROUND

Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) have transitioned from primarily being used as research instruments to becoming increasingly used in the clinical setting to assess recovery and inform shared decision-making. However, there is a need to develop validated short-form PROM instruments to decrease patient burden and ease incorporation into clinical practice.

PURPOSE

To assess the validity and responsiveness of a shortened version of the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (Short-WOSI) when compared with the full WOSI and other shoulder-related PROM instruments.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

This study was a secondary analysis of data collected as part of an institutional review board-approved, multicenter cohort of 1160 patients undergoing surgical stabilization for shoulder instability. The following PROMs were captured preoperatively and 2 years after surgery: WOSI, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), and 36-Item Health Survey (RAND-36). The cohort was split into 2 data sets: a training set to be used in the development of the Short-WOSI (n = 580) and a test set to be used to assess the validity and responsiveness of the Short-WOSI relative to the full WOSI, ASES, SANE, and RAND-36.

RESULTS

The Short-WOSI demonstrated excellent internal consistency before surgery (Cronbach α = .83) and excellent internal consistency at the 2-year follow-up (Cronbach α = .93). The baseline, 2-year, and pre- to postoperative changes in Short-WOSI and WOSI were closely correlated (r > 0.90), with both demonstrating large effect sizes (Short-WOSI = 1.92, WOSI = 1.81). Neither the Short-WOSI nor the WOSI correlated well with the other PROM instruments before (r = 0.21-0.33) or after (r = 0.25-0.38) surgery. The Short-WOSI, WOSI, and SANE scores were more responsive than ASES and RAND-36 scores.

CONCLUSION

The 7-item Short-WOSI demonstrated excellent internal consistency and a lack of floor or ceiling effects. The Short-WOSI demonstrated excellent cross-sectional and longitudinal construct validity and was similarly responsive over time as the full WOSI. Neither the Short-WOSI nor WOSI correlated with more general shoulder PROMs, underscoring the advantage of using instability-specific instruments for this population.

Editorial Commentary: It is Never Wrong to Perform Anterior Cruciate Ligament Revision Reconstruction as a Two-Stage Procedure

Revision anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction can be performed in a single surgery, but in some instances, it requires 2 stages to get it right. The most common reasons for staged reconstruction include dilated bone tunnels on the tibial or femoral side (>13 mm), imperfectly placed bone tunnels that cannot be reused but cannot be avoided, and/or the need to combine the revision ACL reconstruction with meniscus and/or cartilage allograft transplantation. In my practice, we use prefabricated bone dowels, sizing up 0.5 to 1 mm relative to the size of the tunnel (after debridement) for both the femoral side and tibial side. The benefits are efficiency and reproducibility, while the challenges include cost and the potential need for multiple dowels if the prefabricated dowels are not long enough. We will occasionally add demineralized bone matrix, particularly on the tibial side, in the event that there is <5 mm of unfilled tunnel using the bone dowel. We wait ∼3 months before proceeding to the second stage using only plain radiographs to assess healing (advanced imaging such as computed tomography scan is not routinely used). We have also begun to push the limits of single-stage revision reconstruction, using dowels in a single setting. No matter what, it is never wrong to perform ACL revision reconstruction as a 2-stage procedure. When performed for the appropriate indications, outcomes tend to be good, regardless of the chosen technique.

Biomechanical Comparison of 3 Adjustable-Loop Suspensory Devices for All-Inside ACL Reconstruction: A Time-Zero Full-Construct Model

Background

Little is known about the stability of adjustable-loop devices (ALDs) for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR).

Purpose

To evaluate the stabilization behavior of 3 different types of ALDs for all-inside ACLR in a full-construct surgical technique-based manner.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

The femoral and tibial devices of Ultrabutton (Smith & Nephew), Infinity (Conmed), and TightRope II (Arthrex) were applied to quadrupled bovine tendon grafts (n = 8 each) with tibial-sided traction applied (350 N) for graft tensioning in a simulated fully extended knee. Knotless femoral graft fixation was based on either a suture-locking device (SLD; Ultrabutton), button-locking device (BLD; Infinity), or dual-locking device (DLD; TightRope II). All constructs were progressively loaded (50 N/500 cycles) from 50 to 300 N for 3000 cycles (0.75 Hz), including complete unloading situations and pull to failure (50 mm/min). Construct elongation, stiffness, and ultimate load were analyzed.

Results

BLD showed significantly greater initial elongation (-2.69 ± 0.15 mm) than DLD (-3.19 ± 0.21 mm; P < .001) but behaved similarly to SLD (-2.93 ± 0.23 mm). While DLD and SLD had the smallest initial elongation at the same significance level, they behaved opposite to each other with gradually increasing peak loading. At the end of testing, DLD had the lowest (-0.64 ± 0.32 mm) and SLD the highest (3.41 ± 1.01 mm) total elongation (P < .003 for both). SLD displayed significantly higher dynamic elongation (6.34 ± 0.23 mm) than BLD (3.21 ± 0.61 mm) and DLD (2.56 ± 0.31 mm) (P < .001 for both). The failure load of BLD (865.0 ± 183.8 N) was significantly lower (P < .026) compared with SLD and DLD (>1000 N). The predominant failure mode was suture rupture and tibial bone breakage with button subsidence (SLD, n = 4). No significant difference in stiffness between constructs was found.

Conclusion

While DLD successfully restricted critical construct elongation, BLD partially and SLD completely exceeded the clinical failure threshold (>3 mm) of plastic elongation with loop lengthening during increasing cyclic peak loading with complete unloading. Higher failure loads of SLD and DLD implants (>1000 N) were achieved at similar construct stiffness to BLD.

Clinical Relevance

A detailed biomechanical understanding of the stabilization potential is pertinent to the continued evolution of ALDs to improve clinical outcomes.