Clopidogrel plus aspirin versus oral anticoagulation for atrial fibrillation in the Atrial fibrillation Clopidogrel Trial with Irbesartan for prevention of Vascular Events (ACTIVE W): a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Oral anticoagulation therapy reduces risk of vascular events in patients with atrial fibrillation. However, long-term monitoring is necessary and many patients cannot achieve optimum anticoagulation. We assessed whether clopidogrel plus aspirin was non-inferior to oral anticoagulation therapy for prevention of vascular events.

METHODS

Patients were enrolled if they had atrial fibrillation plus one or more risk factor for stroke, and were randomly allocated to receive oral anticoagulation therapy (target international normalised ratio of 2.0-3.0; n=3371) or clopidogrel (75 mg per day) plus aspirin (75-100 mg per day recommended; n=3335). Outcome events were adjudicated by a blinded committee. Primary outcome was first occurrence of stroke, non-CNS systemic embolus, myocardial infarction, or vascular death. Analyses were by intention-to-treat. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00243178.

RESULTS

The study was stopped early because of clear evidence of superiority of oral anticoagulation therapy. There were 165 primary events in patients on oral anticoagulation therapy (annual risk 3.93%) and 234 in those on clopidogrel plus aspirin (annual risk 5.60%; relative risk 1.44 (1.18-1.76; p=0.0003). Patients on oral anticoagulation therapy who were already receiving this treatment at study entry had a trend towards a greater reduction in vascular events (relative risk 1.50, 95% CI 1.19-1.89) and a significantly (p=0.03 for interaction) lower risk of major bleeding with oral anticoagulation therapy (1.30; 0.94-1.79) than patients not on this treatment at study entry (1.27, 0.85-1.89 and 0.59, 0.32-1.08, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Oral anticoagulation therapy is superior to clopidogrel plus aspirin for prevention of vascular events in patients with atrial fibrillation at high risk of stroke, especially in those already taking oral anticoagulation therapy.

Rationale and design of ACTIVE: the atrial fibrillation clopidogrel trial with irbesartan for prevention of vascular events

BACKGROUND

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most frequently occurring cardiac arrhythmia with often serious clinical consequences. Many patients have contraindications to anticoagulation, and it is often underused in clinical practice. The addition of clopidogrel to aspirin (ASA) has been shown to reduce vascular events in a number of high-risk populations. Irbesartan is an angiotensin receptor-blocking agent that reduces blood pressure and has other vascular protective effects.

METHODS AND RESULTS

ACTIVE W is a noninferiority trial of clopidogrel plus ASA versus oral anticoagulation in patients with AF and at least 1 risk factor for stroke. ACTIVE A is a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of clopidogrel in patients with AF and with at least 1 risk factor for stroke who receive ASA because they have a contraindication for oral anticoagulation or because they are unwilling to take an oral anticoagulant. ACTIVE I is a partial factorial, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of irbesartan in patients participating in ACTIVE A or ACTIVE W. The primary outcomes of these studies are composites of vascular events. A total of 14000 patients will be enrolled in these trials.

CONCLUSIONS

ACTIVE is the largest trial yet conducted in AF. Its results will lead to a new understanding of the role of combined antiplatelet therapy and the role of blood pressure lowering with an angiotensin II receptor blocker in patients with AF.

Antiplatelet therapy for preventing stroke in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation and no previous history of stroke or transient ischemic attacks

BACKGROUND

Non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF) carries an increased risk of stroke. Antiplatelet therapy (APT) is proven effective for stroke prevention in most patients at high-risk for vascular events, but its value for primary stroke prevention in patients with non-valvular AF merits separate consideration because of the suspected cardioembolic mechanism of most strokes in AF patients.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy and safety of long-term APT for primary prevention of stroke in patients with chronic non-valvular AF.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register (searched August 2004). In addition, we searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library Issue 1, 2005), MEDLINE (1966 to June 2004), and the reference lists of recent review articles. We also contacted experts working in the field to identify unpublished and ongoing trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomized trials comparing long-term APT with placebo or control in patients with non-valvular AF and no history of transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke. A sensitivity analysis included one additional randomized trial involving primary prevention with aspirin plus very low dose warfarin.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently selected trials for inclusion and extracted data for each outcome. Unpublished data were obtained from trial investigators.

MAIN RESULTS

Three trials tested aspirin in dosages ranging from 75 mg to 325 mg per day and 125 mg every other day to placebo (in two trials) or control (in one trial) in 1965 AF patients without prior stroke or TIA. The mean duration of follow up averaged 1.3 years per participant. Aspirin was associated with non-significant lower risks of all stroke (odds ratio (OR) 0.70, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.47 to 1.07), ischemic stroke (OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.46 to 1.07), all disabling or fatal stroke (OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.50 to 1.49) and all-cause death (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.54 to 1.04). The combination of stroke, myocardial infarction or vascular death was significantly reduced (OR 0.71, 95% CI 0.51 to 0.97 ). No increase in intracranial hemorrhage or major extracranial hemorrhage was observed.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Aspirin appears to reduce stroke and major vascular events in patients with non-valvular AF similar to its effect in other high-risk patients (ie by about 25%). For primary prevention among AF patients with an average stroke rate of 4% per year, about 10 strokes would likely be prevented yearly for every 1000 AF patients given aspirin.

[Benefits of the computer navigation for reconstruction of the anterior crutiate ligament of the knee joint]

AIM

The aim of this work is a radiological assessment of accuracy of the osseous channels location in initial reconstructions of the anterior crutiate ligament (PZV) conducted using a navigation system.

METHODOLOGY

Following arthroscopic preparation of the joint space and registration of the essential data, conducting wires for channels in tibia and femur are navigated using the navigation system. The lig. patellae graft is then pulled-through and fixed using interference screws. The channels location was assessed using radiological methods according to Bernard-Hertel and Harner.

RESULTS

A correct emergence of the femoral channel was found in 13 (87%) and of the tibial channel in 14 (93%) cases. The optimum graft location with respect to the both osseous channels was detected in 12 knee joints (80%).

CONCLUSIONS

Exact location of the osseous channels is a principal prerequisite for a good result of the anterior crutiate ligament reconstruction. In case of standard procedures, this may be possible only in case the operating surgeon conducts a large number of reconstructions every year. In daily practice, however, 70% of reconstructions are conducted by less experienced orthopaedic surgeons. Our initial results indicate that the navigation system could become an effective tool for the surgeons who do not have the opportunity for conducting the above procedures too often.

Radiological study of tha after mini-incision technique

Mini-incision procedures reduce perioperative blood loss, postoperative pain, time of the postoperative recovery, length of the surgical scar, and hospitalisation time. Implant malposition and poor stability are potential risks for compromising long-term results. Between September 2000 and February 2002 (18 months), 120 cemented primary total hip arthroplasties for primary osteoarthritis were performed at the authors institutions. In 60 of these cases selected at random, a posterolateral mini-incision up to 10 cm was used. Sixty other THAs were implanted through a standard posterolateral approach. The radiological measurements of the inclination and anteversion of the cup and stem position were performed and statistically evaluated by use of Mann-Whitney U and Bartlett tests. In the mini-incision group the average inclination angle was 42.3 (range 36 to 52) and the anteversion angle 13.6 (range 6 to 21). The femoral component coronal alignment was within 3 of neutral position in 54 cases (90.0 %). In the standard implanted group the average cup inclination angle was 42.4 (range 35 to 50) and anteversion angle 13.6 (range 8 to 24). Fifty-three stems (88,3 %) were implanted correctly. Statistical analysis found no significant difference in component position between the two groups. There are therefore no potential risks of compromising long-term results after the mini-incision procedure. The authors are encouraged to continue this technique. (Hip International 2005; 15: 98-101).

[Correlation of long-term clinical and radiological results after meniscectomies]

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

Although surgical treatment of meniscus injuries has made great progress, meniscectomy remains the most frequently indicated intervention. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the long-term radiological results of isolated subtotal and total meniscectomies and compare them with the clinical results.

MATERIAL

The assessed group included 22 men and 8 women at an average age of 35 years; nine and 21 knees, respectively, were treated by isolated subtotal and total meniscectomy in the period from 1987 to 1989. The lateral meniscus was operated on in six knees and the medial meniscus in 24 knees. Patients with other injuries to the knee joint or with a systemic disease were not evaluated. The average follow-up was 16 years. The results were compared with the other, non-treated knee.

METHODS

The results were assessed by means of the Lysholm scoring system which takes into account limping, support requirement, walking distances, instability, edema, stair ascent and descent, ability to squat and pain. Radiographic osteoarthritis of the knee was classified by the Kellgren and Lawrence system. A grade greater or equal to 2 was taken for a clear sign of arthritis. In addition, the anatomical axis of the lower extremity was evaluated. Anteroposterior projection of both knees under load was made in a standing position on long films and lateral projection was obtained separately on short films.

RESULTS

The average Lysholm scores were 87 points (range, 41-100) and 91 points (range, 67-100) in the treated and non-treated knees, respectively. The outcome of meniscectomy was excellent in 14 (47 %), good in eight (27 %), satisfactory in five (16 %) and poor in three (10 %) knees. In 12 patients (40 %) the state of the treated knee was evaluated as being equal to that of the non-treated knee and in eight patients (27 %) it was even better. Osteoarthritis of the affected compartment was found in eight treated knees and that of the corresponding compartment on the opposite side in four knees. Grade 2 Kellgren- Lawrence radiographic changes were present in four, grade 3 in two and grade 4 in two knees treated by meniscectomy. The anatomic femoro-tibial angle differed between the treated and non-treated side, by 4 degrees on average (range, 2 degrees to 10 degrees ), in 13 (43 %) patients.

DISCUSSION

Johnson et al. found at follow-up for about 17 years that osteoarthritis developed more often in the treated than in healthy contralateral knees (40 % as against 6 %). Tapper and Hoover reported that 45 % of men and 10 % of women were without subjective complaints at 10 to 30 years of follow up. In the relevant Czech literature, only Pasa et al. have recently paid attention to the development of lesions in knees treated by meniscectomy, but they have largely evaluated changes occurring after partial arthroscopic meniscectomies.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study showed that osteoarthritis after subtotal or total meniscectomy developed in 27 % of the patients at an average follow-up of 16 years. In less than half of the patients, a deviation of the anatomical axis occurred in the treated lower extremity, as compared with the other healthy side. Lysholm scores worse in the treated than the non-treated knee were found in one third of the patients.However, a deviated knee joint axis and/or osteoarthritic lesions did not always correlate with deteriorated clinical findings.

[Arthroscopy of the hip joint]

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

Arthroscopic examination of joints has recently gained wide application. Due to hip joint shape and a difficult approach to it, hip arthroscopy has long remained outside the attention and abilities of arthroscopists. The authors present their first experience with operative hip arthroscopy that offers new options for the treatment of intra-articular pathology of the hip joint.

MATERIAL

In the years 2001-2003, 24 hip arthroscopies were performed. The following pathological conditions were diagnosed and treated: loose bodies, chondral lesions of the femoral head and acetabulum, ruptures of the labrum acetabuli and ligamentum teres, impingement syndrome of the labrum acetabuli, and coxitis. No post-operative neurologic symptoms or vascular complications were observed.

METHODS

All procedures were carried out on patients in a supine position, with the treated joint in traction. A standard 30 degrees device and common instruments for arthroscopic surgery were used. The instruments were inserted in the articular fissure with the use of an X-ray intensifier. Movement in the hip joint during surgery is very limited due to traction, joint shape and the length of working canals. After traction is released, it is possible to examine also the intra-articular part of the femoral neck.

RESULTS

The pre-operative complaints (clunking, painful joint) were relieved up to 4 to 6 weeks after surgery in 23 patients. In one patient primarily diagnosed with coxitis, infection was not eradicated after lavage and debridement and, because inflammation deeply affected the femoral head, the hip was eventually treated by Girdlestone arthroplasty. The results were evaluated clinically and on the basis of the Merle d'Aubigne and Postel questionnaire assessing pain and walking abilities by both the patients and the surgeon. All 24 patients reported poor or average conditions before surgery and, after surgery, 23 experienced improvement to a very good or average condition. One patient's state failed to improve and was evaluated as poor both before and after surgery.

DISCUSSION

Hip arthroscopy is a minimal invasive technique which allows us to diagnose and, at the same time, treat intra-articular pathology in a gentle manner. In arthroscopic surgery, correct diagnosis (X-ray, CT and MRI), correct patient's position, their body mass (obesity), selection of appropriate approaches to the joint, surgeon's experience and potentials of arthroscopic instruments all play an important role. We assume that, with increasing experience, the number of patients as well as the scope of diagnosed and treated pathological conditions of the hip joint will grow. The outcomes of operative arthroscopy were very good (improvement in 23 of 24 patients) and it is probable that this technique can slow down or prevent early wear-and-tear hip arthritis.

CONCLUSIONS

In our country, operative arthroscopy of the hip is only at its beginning. However, it can be assumed that, similarly to other large joints, it will soon become a widely used, indispensable diagnostic and therapeutic method.

Treatment of deep cartilage defects of the knee using autologous chondrograft transplantation and by abrasive techniques--a randomized controlled study

AIM OF THE STUDY

To compare outcomes of surgical treatment of deep cartilage defects of the knee in a group of patients treated by autologous chondrograft transplantation versus patients treated by abrasive techniques.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An original method of chondrograft preparation based on cultivated autologous chondrocytes in a three-dimensional carrier - fibrin glue (Tissucol, Baxter, Austria) has been described. Preclinical tests in human cadavres and porcine models have established the possibility of chondrograft use in humans. Of the 50 patients included in the study, 25 patients (50%) underwent autologous chondrograft transplantation (group I) and 25 patients (50%) were treated using abrasive techniques according to Johnson (group II). These two groups were similar with respect to age, size of defect, depth and localization, and presence of concomitant knee injuries. The Lysholm knee and IKDC (International Knee Documentation Committee) subjective scores were used to evaluate the results.

RESULTS

The preoperative value of the Lysholm knee score for patients in group I was 47.60 points; 5 months after surgery 77.20 points; and 12 months after surgery 86.48 points. The values for the Lysholm knee score for patients in group II preoperatively, 5 months postop, and 12 months postop were 52.60, 69.20, and 74.48 respectively. Results 12 months after surgery were significantly better in group I as compared to group II (p < 0.001). The preoperative value of the IKDC subjective score in group I was 41.28 points; 5 months after surgery 67.00 points; and 12 months after surgery 76.48 points. The values for the IKDC subjective score in group II preoperatively, 5 months postop, and 12 months postop were 45.00, 62.28, and 68.08 respectively. Results 12 months after surgery were significantly better in group I when compared to group II (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The results obtained in this study have confirmed the better outcome in patients treated with autologous chondrograft transplantation. This original method was found to be just as effective as abrasive techniques. We recommend its use in clinical practice.

'Don't be fooled by the patient's make-up'!

One hundred and eighty-seven patients undergoing gynaecological surgery in two different international centres were reviewed daily by 'blinded' interviewers. They were analysed for the presence of nausea, vomiting, eating, mobilisation, general well-being and use of make-up. On starting to wear make-up their statement of well-being improved significantly but 1 in 3 patients in London complained of nausea, one in four still had a urinary catheter in place, required intramuscular analgesia or intravenous access, one in eight were unable to tolerate food, and one in 10 patients were pyrexial. Although wearing make-up was associated with improved well-being their was no correlation with their clinical condition.

Potential utility of rubidium 82 PET quantification in patients with 3-vessel coronary artery disease

BACKGROUND

Standard perfusion imaging may underestimate the extent of disease in 3-vessel coronary atherosclerosis. This study determined whether positron emission tomography quantification of perfusion reserve by use of rubidium 82 net retention defined a greater extent of disease than the standard approach in patients with 3-vessel disease.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Rb-82 net retention was quantified as an estimation of absolute perfusion at rest and with dipyridamole stress by use of dynamic positron emission tomography imaging. The percent of abnormal myocardial sectors, as compared with a normal database, for a standard and quantification approach was determined. Twenty-three patients were evaluated. Defect sizes were larger in patients with 3-vessel disease (n = 13) by use of quantification methods: 44% +/- 18% of the myocardial sectors were abnormal by use of the standard approach versus 69% +/- 24% of sectors when measured by quantification of the stress-rest perfusion difference (P =.008). In patients with single-vessel disease (n = 10), defect sizes were smaller with quantification methods.

CONCLUSIONS

Quantification of Rb-82 net retention to measure the stress-rest perfusion difference in the myocardium defined a greater extent of disease than the standard approach in this group of patients with triple-vessel disease. More accurate measurement of the extent of coronary artery disease could facilitate better risk stratification and identify more high-risk patients in whom aggressive intervention is required.

[Arthroscopic stabilization of a primary traumatic dislocation of the glenohumeral joint]

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

The authors present their experience with arthroscopic stabilization of a primary traumatic dislocation of the glenohumeral joint in young patients.

MATERIAL

In up to 80% of patients younger than 25 years, traumatic dislocation of the glenohumeral joint is associated with its recurrence within one year of treatment even in well performed conservative therapy. Repeated dislocations gradually damage the joint and eventually result in the development of arthritis. The articular capsule becomes loose, glenoid surface is reduced and cartilage of the humeral head is affected. Repeated dislocation, reduction and immobilization are causes of patients' discomfort as well as morbidity. For these reasons, the stabilization of recurrent dislocations of the glenohumeral joint is performed by an open procedure or, most recently, arthroscopic method. Arthroscopic stabilization of a primary traumatic dislocation of the glenohumeral joint is an invasive yet gentle method that permits an exact reconstruction of the injured articular capsule and provides good conditions for complete healing of the affected tissues.

METHOD

In order to prevent dislocations from recurring, we offered to perform minimal invasive arthroscopic stabilization in 30 patients who had undergone reduction of a primary dislocation of the glenohumeral joint in the 1999/2001 period. Of these, 18 (45%) accepted this offer. In 11 men and 7 women (average age, 22 years) 12 right and six left glenohumeral joints were treated arthroscopically with the use of absorbable or non-absorbable sutures. The procedure was performed at 2 to 7 days after injury and reduction. The joint was immobilized in an elastic Desault bandage for 6 weeks, but with exercising the elbow. From the 4th postoperative week, the glenohumeral joint was passively exercised in the sagittal plane, but abduction and external rotation were avoided. From the 7th week on, the joint was exercised to achieve its full range of motion.

RESULTS

The patients were followed up for 12 to 26 months. No repeated dislocation occurred. The range of motion comparable with the contralateral healthy joint was achieved in all patients by 12 weeks after surgery. One patient with a combined injury involving fracture of the first lumbar vertebra with signs of articular fibrosis underwent redress of the glenohumeral joint under general anesthesia at 6 weeks after arthroscopy. All patients returned to their previous everyday life, working and sports activities.

DISCUSSION

Arthroscopic stabilization of the glenohumeral joint is an invasive though gentle method which, when exactly performed and followed by adequate postoperative rehabilitation, can considerably or even completely reduce recurrence of joint dislocation. Its disadvantages include costs of surgery and hospital stay, and a risk of potential intra- or post-operative complications. The statistical evaluation of primary dislocations in young patients showed that, in 80% of them, recurrent dislocations would probably require surgical treatment. In addition, a joint suffering from repeated dislocation may develop lesions to such an extent that dislocation may continue to recur even after surgical treatment; this happens in about 10% of the cases. Our estimate was that only 20% of the patients with primary traumatic dislocation (ruptured articular capsule) would not be in need of further repair. However, it was impossible to determine who they would be. Our results, i. e., the absence of recurrent dislocations, suggest a way of reducing the recurrence of dislocations following a primary injury of the glenohumeral joint.

CONCLUSIONS

Arthroscopic stabilization of a primary traumatic dislocation of the glenohumeral joint in young patients (under 25 or maximally 30 years of age) is the method that allows us, invasively but with a good outcome, to reduce a high number of post-traumatic dislocations and to return sporting and/or manually working subjects to their previous way of life.

[A rare shortening of the first metatarsus of the foot and its treatment with distraction arthrodesis]

Multiple toes may develop on the medial or lateral side of the forefoot or in its middle. This may involve duplication of only the distal phalanx or the whole hallux including the metatarsal. In a duplicated big toe, the phalanx to be maintained, because short muscles of the leg are attached to it, is usually localized medially. A rare case of dysplasia of the first metatarsus, following a resection indicated in childhood for a hallux triples, is described in a 20-year-old girl. In order to remove hallux insufficiency and an overloading of the middle metatarsals, the authors decided to carry out a one-stage prolongation of the first metatarsal, using an autologous tricorticcal graft collected from the pelvis and a dynamic compression plate. No surgical treatment of the middle metatarsals was indicated because a disproportionate, short foot would result. Both the subjective and objective status of the patient at 6 months after the operation showed that the non-standard prolongation procedure was correctly indicated and allowed for physiological loading of the foot and restoration of normal walking.

[Isolated fractures of the atlas]

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

To present the current tends in the diagnosis and management of isolated atlas fractures based on the retrospectively evaluated group of patients with this trauma.

MATERIAL

In the period from 1995 to 2002, we treated 486 injuries to the cervical spine at our department. Out of these, 19 patients sustained an isolated fracture of the first cervical vertebra. This group consisted of 12 men and seven women; the average age was 46.6 years. Neurological findings in 18 patients were classified as Frankel E and, in one, as Frankel A. The causes of injury included a fall from height in five patient, a fall in the street in five pedestrians, a car accident in five patients, a dive into shallow water in three and a shooting injury in one patient.

METHODS

We treated 16 patients conservatively, using a halo-vest in eight patients and a Philadelphia collar also in eight patients. In two patients with unstable atlas injury, we carried out C1-C2 transarticular stabilization according to Magerl. In the patient who had been shot, we removed the bullet transorally.

RESULTS

All patients healed completely without signs of instability. One patient with postraumatic pentaplegia, who died within 24 h of surgery due to septic shock, had not been included in the follow-up. Two patients reported neck pain at rest, three after exercise and 13 were without any pain. The patient after C1-C2 transarticular stabilization had a significant restriction of the range of motion in the cervical spine; the rest of the patients were without limitation. None of the patients showed any deterioration of neurological findings during the treatment, nor was any post-traumatic atlantoaxial instability recorded after the therapy was completed.

DISCUSSION

Isolated fractures of the atlas account for 1 to 2% of all spinal fractures. Many fractures may remain unnoticed and, therefore, it is important to X-ray patients with a symptomatic injury to the cervical spine in three standard projection planes (anteroposterior, lateral and transoral). When a fracture of the atlas is suspected, it is necessary to examine them by computed tomography to obtain a more accurate presentation of fracture lines. Views on the method of treating isolated fractures of the atlas, particularly unstable ones, are not consistent.

CONCLUSIONS

Isolated fractures of the first cervical vertebra, in terms of therapy, are stable and unstable. Stable fractures heal within 8 to 12 weeks. A Philadelphia collar or halo-vest provide sufficient immobilization. Surgical stabilization or a halo-vest immobilization for a period of 12 weeks are recommended in unstable injuries that are characterized by the lateral mass displacement of more than 7 mm or extension of the space before the dens (predental space) by more than 3 mm, or in which magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated injury to the transverse ligament. After the halo-vest removal, it is necessary to perform functional examination of the cervical spine for detection of potential atlantoaxial instability.

[Implantation of a non-cemented acetabulum with the use of a navigation system]

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

To compare, on the basis of clinical and radiographic findings, the results of non-cemented acetabulum implantation involving the use of a CT-free navigation system with those of implantation without its use.

MATERIAL

A total of 50 patients undergoing implantation of a non-cemented acetabulum in the period from April 2002 to September 2003 were evaluated. Twenty-five patients operated on without the navigation system were included in group 1 on a random basis and 25 patients treated with the use of the system constituted group 2.

METHODS

Both groups were evaluated on the basis of clinical and X-ray findings. The radiographic measurement of acetabulular inclination was based on anteroposterior projection of both hips made on films on films equal in size. Anteversion of the acetabulum was assessed according to the Ackland system. The Merle d'Aubigne and Postel scores were used for clinical evaluation. The results were compared statistically.

RESULTS

In group 1, the average inclination was 50.6 degrees (range, 38-62) and the average anteversion was 9.4 degrees (range, 3-18). In group 2, the values were 43.0 degrees (32-55) and 10.4 degrees (8-16) for the average inclination and anteversion, respectively. The difference in acetabular inclination between the two groups was statistically significant. When accuracy was evaluated, the difference in acetabular anteversion was statistically significant.

DISCUSSION

The achievement of an optimal position of the acetabular component is one of the important factors for good, long-term outcomes of hip replacement. The optimal position that, as suggested by many authors, involves an inclination of 45 +/- 10 degrees and an anteversion of 15 +/- 10 degrees provides sufficient stability, low wear and a satisfactory range of motion in the hip joint. The results close to these values were achieved in the patients included in group 2.

CONCLUSIONS

A comparison of the groups showed that the computer-assisted navigation system used in implantation resulted in an optimal position of the acetabular component.

Die Weil-Osteotomie bei Metatarsalgie

AIM

The purpose of the prospective study is to evaluate the results of Weil osteotomy in painful overloaded central forefoot with dislocation of the MTP joint.

METHOD

19 left and 16 right feet underwent the Weil osteotomy. In 10 patients the procedure was performed on both feet. In 15 cases only one metatarsal was corrected (the 2 (nd) in 12 and the 3 (rd) in 3 cases), in 17 cases both the 2 (nd) and the 3 (rd) metatarsals and in 4 cases also with the 4 (th) one together. The simultaneous correction of hallux valgus was performed in 19 forefeet. The mean follow-up was 31 months (range, 19 to 41 months).

RESULTS

All patients were satisfied with the result of the operation. The results were excellent in 29 cases (83 %) and good in 6 cases (17 %). The plantar callus disappeared in 27 feet (77 %) and decreased in 8 feet (23 %). In one patient the new callus formed under the head of the neighbouring metatarsal bone. The sufficient MTP joint reduction was found in 31 cases (89 %).

CONCLUSION

It is possible with the Weil osteotomy to correct the metatarsal length accurately according to the preoperative planning. This results in the prevention of new callus formation under the neighbouring metatarsal head. Stable internal fixation allows the early mobilisation of the MTP joint.

Total knee arthroplasty implanted with and without kinematic navigation

Between September 2000 and February 2002 we inserted 120 total knee arthroplasties. In 60 patients we used the standard technique, and in 60 patients we used the OrthoPilot navigation system. Postoperatively all patients had standing long radiographs of the lower extremity from the hip joint to the ankle. We considered the ideal value of the anatomic lateral tibiofemoral angle (LTFA) to be 174 degrees. In the standard group the mean value of LTFA was 174.9 degrees and in the navigation group 174.3 degrees. A deviation between 0 degrees and 2 degrees from the ideal value was seen in 42 cases in the standard group and in 53 cases in the navigation group. In the standard group 18 cases had a deviation of more than 2.1 degrees, whereas there were only seven cases in the navigation group with a deviation exceeding 2.1 degrees. There were no complications related to the use of the navigation system. The system affords a possibility to place femoral and tibial components precisely with less axis deviation than with the conventional technique.

[Case report of extensive metallosis in extra-articular tissues after unicompartmental knee joint replacement]

The authors present a case of extensive metallosis of the knee joint resulting from the secondary abrasive wear of components of a unicompartmental alloplasty. Eight years after medial condyle replacement, an eighty-year-old patient presented with a break of the femoral component. This resulted in a rapid wear of tibial polyethylene and the development of secondary friction between two metal surfaces. The generation of a large number of metal particles produced an increase in the actual metal surface. This extensive articular metallosis affected not only intra-articular but also extraarticular tissues and the subchondral bone. Histological examination confirmed the presence of a large amount of opaque pigment in histiocytes. The condition was treated by total knee arthroplasty with resection of the posterior cruciate ligament (stabilizing plateau). The authors discuss the causes of metallosis development and its various types; they draw attention to the scarcity of literature data on this condition. Metallosis is a combined chemical and toxic reaction which, if the contact surface of a metal implant is large, may cause extensive damage to the surrounding tissue, the bone included.

[Indications for arthrodesis of the knee joint in modern orthopedics]

INTRODUCTION

Indication for arthrodesis of the knee joint is nowadays most frequently failure of a total endoprosthesis, usually septic. A less frequent indication is purulent gonitis, frequently after corticoid administration, the condition after a complicated intraarticular fracture with subsequent arthritis or oncological disease of the bones in the area of the knee joint.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In the course of 2000 to 2002 at the authors' department 15 arthrodeses were implanted. In three cases the indication for arthrodesis was purulent gonitis, in three cases the condition after an open articular injury associated with infectious complications and in the remaining nine cases failure of an endoprosthesis of the knee, incl. seven caused by infection. The patients were three men and 12 women, mean age 64 years (30-75 years). For stabilization of the arthrodesis 9x external fixation was used, 5x plates and 1x intramedullary osteosynthesis.

RESULTS

In all cases consolidation of the arthrodesis was achieved. In one case the external fixation had to be replaced by a system of two fixation devices and in one case correction of the axial position of the extremity was made. The presence of external fixation was perceived negatively in particular by female patients.

DISCUSSION

Plate osteosynthesis and the use of external fixation devices are relatively quick, cheap and considerate methods of arthrodesis. External fixation must be used in acute virulent infections while plate osteosynthesis can be indicated in its absence. The characteristic of intramedullary fixation is similar, however special nails used for arthrodesis of the knee are several times more expensive than the previous types of stabilization. The advantage is the possibility to use a massive bone graft to fill the defect.

[Treatment of deep chondral defects of the knee using autologous chondrocytes cultured on a support--results after one year]

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

The treatment of deep chondral defects is one of the key issues in current orthopedics and traumatology. We developed a new technique that greatly improved the outcome of treatment in young active patients. The method is based on transplantation of in vitro cultured autologous chondrocytes carried on the fibrin glue Tissucol.

MATERIAL

In the years 2000 to 2002, 19 patients with deep chondral defects were treated by chondrocyte transplantation with the use of Tissucol. At 1 year, 14 defects (average size, 4.31 cm2; range, 2.0 to 10.0 cm2) in 12 patients were evaluated. The defects were localized on the weight-bearing areas of the femoral condyle, tibial plateau and femoropatellar joint in 10, one and three patients, respectively.

METHODS

The Lysholm knee score and IKDC subjective score were used for outcome evaluation. Second-look arthroscopy and repair assessment, on the basis of ICRS, were carried out in four patients.

RESULTS

The patients were examined at 5 and 12 months after surgery. The average value of the Lysholm knee score before surgery was 45.6 points and those at 5 and 12 months after surgery were 72.0 points and 81.5 points, respectively. Good or excellent outcomes were achieved in seven patients. The average preoperative IKDC subjective score was 39.0 points and the postoperative values were 60.0 and 71.2 points at 5 and 12 months, respectively. Second-look arthroscopy was performed in four patients at 3 to 5 months after the transplantation. A very good, complete healing of the graft was observed in two patients and partial chondrograft degeneration (30% graft area) was seen in two patients. The graft surfaces were evaluated according to the cartilage repair assessments system (ICSR-cartilage score) and the average value obtained was 8.5 points, i.e., almost a normal graft surface. During the second-look arthroscopy, samples for examination by light and electron microscopy were collected. In the healing defects, they showed the presence of hyaline-like cartilage characterized by typical spherical chondrocytes, extracellular collagenous filaments and formation of typical isogenetic cell groups. In the regions of graft degeneration (fissuration), neovascularization of the issue with the presence of fibroblast-like cells was recorded.

DISCUSSION

Excellent and very good outcomes were observed in 58% of our patients. Similar studies reported excellent and good results in 80 to 85% of the patients. On comparison, our group included more serious cases with the high presence of severe concomitant injuries, which influenced the final outcome. However, improvement was achieved in all 12 evaluated patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The method described is effective for treating deep chondral knee injuries and can be recommended for use in clinical practice.

[Traumatic spondylolisthesis of the axis]

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

The study presents a group of patients with traumatic spondylolisthesis of the axis. Views on the treatment of different types of spondylolisthesis vary. The aim of this study was to carry out a retrospective evaluation of the group of patients with this traumatic condition.

MATERIAL

In the period from 1995 to 2002, 26 patients with traumatic spondylolisthesis of the axis were treated. They accounted for 5% of all patients admitted to our department for cervical spine injuries. Three types of traumatic spondylolisthesis were distinguished according to the Effendi classification. Type I was diagnosed in seven, type II in 18 patients and type III in one patients.

METHODS

Type I traumatic spondylolisthesis was, as a rule, treated conservatively. A halo vest was used in four and a Philadelphia collar in three patients. Patients diagnosed with type II spondylolisthesis were treated surgically from the anterior approach (16 patients) or with a halo vest (two patients). The only patient with a type III fracture was operated on from the anterior approach.

RESULTS

Osseous healing was achieved in all patients. No pseudoarthrosis developed and no repeat surgery for infection or osteosynthesis failure was needed. No deterioration of neurological findings was recorded. The range of motion in the cervical spine after healing was not affected.

DISCUSSION

Views on the classification and therapy of traumatic spondylolisthesis of the axis are diverse. The greatest diversity is associated with making a decision on whether the injury is unstable and requires surgical treatment or not. Further arguments are related to the use of the most suitable approach. Treatment from the anterior approach is prevailing. Type III fractures are rare and must always be treated surgically.

CONCLUSIONS

Methods for treatment of traumatic spondylolisthesis of the axis are currently a topic of dispute. The decisive factor for therapy is whether the injury is stable or unstable. When instability is present, anterior C2-3 spondylodesis completed with plate osteosynthesis is the method of choice. Stable injuries are treated by the application of a halo vest or Philadelphia collar.

Semen quality and cryopreservation in adolescent cancer patients

BACKGROUND

Adult cancer patients are routinely offered pre-treatment sperm cryopreservation. However, only recently has the welfare of adolescent cancer sufferers gained momentum, including their infertility, and unsurprisingly relatively little is known about their semen quality and feasibility of cryopreservation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A total of 238 adolescent cancer patients referred to our centre between 1991 and 2000, from post-pubertal age up to 19 years 11.9 months, were included. Their semen was processed after appropriate counselling. Semen cryopreservation was possible in 205 of the initial 238 patients referred (86.1%). The pathology of the cancer cases included Hodgkin's lymphoma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, osteosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL), acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), testicular, leukaemia, and others. The mean sperm counts were broadly uniform across the disease and age groups, except for the AML group. There was no cancer group analysed in which sperm could not be stored. Semen volume was broadly uniform across the disease groups, except the ALL and Ewing's sarcoma groups, which showed relatively lower and higher mean semen volumes respectively. Older adolescent patients appeared to have a higher mean semen volume.

CONCLUSIONS

Semen cryopreservation was possible in most adolescent cancer cases regardless of age or diagnosis. In all cases the quality of the semen was potentially useful for assisted conception procedures. An offer to freeze sperm in all patients aged >12 years should be made. Adequate support and counselling of both the boys and their parents is essential.

Semen production in adolescent cancer patients

BACKGROUND

The influence of an accompanying person (parent, guardian or nurse) on the ability of an adolescent (post-pubescent, <20 years of age) to produce a semen sample for cryopreservation, is undetermined, as is the potential for use of urine samples to retrieve sperm in those adolescents that are unable to produce a semen sample.

METHODS

The records from 1991-2000 inclusive were reviewed to derive those adolescent patients who were unable to produce semen for cryopreservation prior to undergoing treatment for a malignant condition.

RESULTS

During the study period 238 adolescents attended our unit of whom 205 (86.1%) banked semen ('producers'). The remaining 33 adolescents (13.9%) were initially unable to produce a sample ('non-producers'), four of these provided a urine specimen for analysis (12.1%) and of these one had sufficient sperm for cryopreservation. Of the 'accompanied' patients 29.7% (19/64) were non-producers while in the 'unaccompanied' patients only 8.0% (14/174) were non-producers (chi(2) = 16.58, P < 0.001). The relative risk (RR) of not producing a semen sample for the accompanied group of patients was greater than that for the unaccompanied group (RR = 3.689, 95% confidence interval: 2.0-6.9). One patient returning alone successfully provided a semen sample for storage.

CONCLUSION

Units should consider the effect of the presence of an accompanying person when an adolescent is unable to produce a semen sample and should consider requesting urine to retrieve sperm.

Age-heterogamy and Canadian union

This study provides a much-needed exploration of the determinants of age-discrepant unions in Canada. What little research has been conducted in this area of sociology of the family is now outdated. Further, the growing number of Canadians living in nonmarital cohabitation warrants their inclusion in any consideration of contemporary, heterosexual unions, and we have done so here. Utilizing multinomial logit modeling techniques, we analyze data drawn from the 1995 Canadian General Social Survey. We find that cohabitations and remarriages are more likely to be age-discrepant than marriages, and that as age at union formation increases, so does the likelihood that the union will be age-heterogamous. Although we hypothesized a positive relationship between education and the chances of age-heterogamous unions because the availability of eligible mates may decrease with education, we actually find an inverse association for women: a one-level increase in education decreases a woman's odds of entering an age-discrepant union by about 4 percent. We speculate that for women, greater education (economic position) may increase age-homogamy because they may be more economically attractive and thus more able to select a partner of their own age.