Systematic development of an injury prevention programme for judo athletes: the IPPON intervention

Objectives

To systematically develop an injury prevention programme in judo and test its feasibility: Injury Prevention and Performance Optimization Netherlands (IPPON) intervention.

Methods

We used the five-step Knowledge Transfer Scheme (KTS) guidelines. In the first two steps, we described the injury problem in judo and showed possibilities to reduce the injury rates. In the third step, the Knowledge Transfer Group (KTG) translated this information into actions in judo practice. Expert meetings and practical sessions were held. In the fourth step, we developed the injury prevention programme and evaluated its feasibility in judo practice in a pilot study. As a final step, we will evaluate the injury prevention programme on its effectiveness to reduce injuries.

Results

In the first two steps, information collected indicated the need for reducing judo injuries due to high incidence rates. Injury prevention programmes have shown to be effective in reducing injuries in other sports. For judo, no injury prevention programme has yet been systematically developed. In the third step, the KTG reached consensus about the content: a trainer-based warm-up programme with dynamic exercises focusing on the shoulder, knee and ankle. In the fourth step, the intervention was developed. All exercises were approved in the pilot study. Based on the pilot study’s results, the IPPON intervention was extended and has become suitable for the final step.

Conclusion

We developed the IPPON intervention using the systematic guidance of the KTS. This trainer-based programme focuses on the prevention of shoulder, knee and ankle injuries in judo and consists of 36 exercises classified in three categories: (1) flexibility and agility, (2) balance and coordination and (3) strength and stability. The effectiveness and feasibility of the intervention on injury reduction among judo athletes will be conducted in a randomised controlled trial.

Posterior malleolar ankle fractures

AIMS

The primary aim of this study was to address the hypothesis that fracture morphology might be more important than posterior malleolar fragment size in rotational type posterior malleolar ankle fractures (PMAFs). The secondary aim was to identify clinically important predictors of outcome for each respective PMAF-type, to challenge the current dogma that surgical decision-making should be based on fragment size.

METHODS

This observational prospective cohort study included 70 patients with operatively treated rotational type PMAFs, respectively: 23 Haraguchi Type I (large posterolateral-oblique), 22 Type II (two-part posterolateral and posteromedial), and 25 (avulsion-) Type III. There was no standardized protocol on how to address the PMAFs and CT-imaging was used to classify fracture morphology and quality of postoperative syndesmotic reduction. Quantitative 3D-CT (Q3DCT) was used to assess the quality of fracture reduction, respectively: the proportion of articular involvement; residual intra-articular: gap, step-off, and 3D-displacement; and residual gap and step-off at the fibular notch. These predictors were correlated with the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) at two-years follow-up.

RESULTS

Bivariate analyses revealed that fracture morphology (p = 0.039) as well as fragment size (p = 0.007) were significantly associated with the FAOS. However, in multivariate analyses, fracture morphology (p = 0.001) (but not fragment size (p = 0.432)) and the residual intra-articular gap(s) (p = 0.009) were significantly associated. Haraguchi Type-II PMAFs had poorer FAOS scores compared with Types I and III. Multivariate analyses identified the following independent predictors: step-off in Type I; none of the Q3DCT-measurements in Type II, and quality of syndesmotic reduction in small-avulsion Type III PMAFs.

CONCLUSION

PMAFs are three separate entities based on fracture morphology, with different predictors of outcome for each PMAF type. The current debate on whether or not to fix PMAFs needs to be refined to determine which morphological subtype benefits from fixation. In PMAFs, fracture morphology should guide treatment instead of fragment size. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(9):1229-1241.

Medial closing wedge high tibial osteotomy for valgus tibial deformities: good clinical results and survival with a mean 4.5 years of follow-up in 113 patients

PURPOSE

A varus-producing medial closing wedge high tibial osteotomy (MCWHTO) is an uncommon procedure. The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the survivorship and prevalence of post-operative subjective knee laxity and satisfaction in a large cohort of patients with a MCWHTO performed without a MCL-reefing procedure.

METHODS

All patients (n = 176) who underwent a MCWHTO in our clinic between 2008 and 2016 were approached to participate. After review of patient charts, questionnaires were sent to willingly patients. Primary outcome was the survivorship of the MCWHTO; secondary outcome was patient-reported instability and satisfaction.

RESULTS

One-hundred and thirteen patients participated in the study. The 5-year survival rate of the MCWHTO was almost 80%. A total of 77% of the patients was satisfied with the treatment. With regard to post-operative subjective knee laxity, 26% of the patients experienced instability of the knee post-operation. Instability was significantly correlated with the KOOS domains, the Lysholm score, the IKDC knee function score and the Physical and Mental Health Domains of the SF-36.

CONCLUSION

Medial closing wedge high tibial osteotomy provides good results regarding survivorship and patient satisfaction for patients with a valgus deformity which is located in the proximal tibia. Clinically relevant is that in the surgical technique without MCL-reefplasty instability is significantly correlated with worse patient-reported outcome measures. The addition of a MCL reefing procedure will improve outcome in selected patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Dynamic trial fitting by an expanding trial cup does not jeopardize primary acetabular component stability

BACKGROUND

Trial fitting of the acetabular component in uncemented total hip replacement is traditionally done by trial cups. Since trial cups do not resemble the real press-fit obtained by the definitive cup, a dynamic trial inserter, called the X-pander ®, was developed to mimic the real amount of press-fit. However, the concern is raised of losing the initial press-fit by using the X-pander® due to pre-expansion of the acetabulum. The purpose of this study was to assess if there is a difference in primary stability between both methods.

METHODS

A biomechanical randomized study was performed with bovine calf acetabula, with randomization between either using the X-pander® or the traditional trial cups to assess primary stability. The primary outcome was the force needed to achieve lever out of the implanted cup (Anexys, Mathys or Trident, Stryker), measured in Newton meter (Nm) with a biomechanical testing set up.

FINDINGS

In total, 54 cups (19 Anexys, 35 Trident) were inserted and tested after randomized trial fitting. Overall mean lever out was 45.1 Nm (SD 14.6) for the X-pander® group and 45.0 Nm (SD 14.5) for the trial cups group. After adjustment for potential confounders (cup size and type) mixed model analysis did not reveal a significant difference in lever out force between both testing devices (mean 1.0 Nm, 95%CI (-5.9; 8.0), p = .77).

INTERPRATION

Initial press-fit of the implanted cup is not lost by pre-expansion as done with dynamic trial fitting with the X-pander®.

Accuracy of Currently Available Methods in Quantifying Anterior Glenoid Bone Loss: Controversy Regarding Gold Standard-A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

To determine the accuracy of glenoid bone loss-measuring methods and assess the influence of the imaging modality on the accuracy of the measurement methods.

METHODS

A literature search was performed in the PubMed (MEDLINE), Embase, and Cochrane databases from 1994 to June 11, 2019. The guidelines and algorithm of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) were used. Included for analysis were articles reporting the accuracy of glenoid bone loss-measuring methods in patients with anterior shoulder instability by comparing an index test and a reference test. Furthermore, articles were included if anterior glenoid bone loss was quantified using a ruler during arthroscopy or by measurements on plain radiograph(s), computed tomography (CT) images, or magnetic resonance images in living humans. The risk of bias was determined using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2) tool.

RESULTS

Twenty-one studies were included, showing 17 different methods. Three studies reported on the accuracy of methods performed on 3-dimensional CT. Two studies determined the accuracy of glenoid bone loss-measuring methods performed on radiography by comparing them with methods performed on 3-dimensional CT. Six studies determined the accuracy of methods performed using imaging modalities with an arthroscopic method as the reference. Eight studies reported on the influence of the imaging modality on the accuracy of the methods. There was no consensus regarding the gold standard. Because of the heterogeneity of the data, a quantitative analysis was not feasible.

CONCLUSIONS

Consensus regarding the gold standard in measuring glenoid bone loss is lacking. The use of heterogeneous data and varying methods contributes to differences in the gold standard, and accuracy therefore cannot be determined.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, systematic review of Level II, III, and IV studies.

Development of a Personalized m/eHealth Algorithm for the Resumption of Activities of Daily Life Including Work and Sport after Total and Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty: A Multidisciplinary Delphi Study

Evidence for recommendations concerning the resumption of activities of daily life, including work and sport, after knee arthroplasty is lacking. Therefore, recommendations vary considerably between hospitals and healthcare professionals. We aimed to obtain multidisciplinary consensus for such recommendations. Using a Delphi procedure, we strived to reach consensus among a multidisciplinary expert panel of six orthopaedic surgeons, three physical therapists, five occupational physicians and one physician assistant on recommendations regarding the resumption of 27 activities of daily life. The Delphi procedure involved three online questionnaire rounds and one face-to-face consensus meeting. In each of these four rounds, experts independently decided at what time daily life activities could feasibly and safely be resumed after knee arthroplasty. We distinguished patients with a fast, average and slow recovery. After four Delphi rounds, the expert panel reached consensus for all 27 activities. For example, experts agreed that total knee arthroplasty patients with a fast recovery could resume cycling six weeks after the surgery, while those with an average and slow recovery could resume this activity after nine and twelve weeks, respectively. The consensus recommendations will subsequently be integrated into an algorithm of a personalized m/eHealth portal to enhance recovery among knee arthroplasty patients.

Complications and subsequent surgery after intra-medullary nailing for tibial shaft fractures: Review of 8110 patients

BACKGROUND

Intramedullary nailing of tibial shaft fractures has been common practice for decades. Nevertheless, complications occur frequently, and subsequent surgery is often required. To improve our understanding on how we may improve trauma care for patients with tibial shaft fractures, this study systematically reviewed all currently available evidence to assess the incidence of complications and rate of re-operations following intramedullary nailing of traumatic tibial fractures.

METHODS

Trip Database, Medline, Scopus and Cochrane Library were searched on September 7th, 2018. Searches were limited to English studies published after January 1st, 1998. Studies were included if authors included more than 50 patients treated with intramedullary nailing for traumatic tibial fractures. Inclusion of studies and critical appraisal of the evidence was performed by two independent authors. Incidence of complications and rate of re-operations were reported with descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

Fifty-one studies involving 8110 patients treated with intramedullary nailing for traumatic tibial fractures were included. Mean age of patients was 37.5 years. The most frequent complication was anterior knee pain (23%), followed by non-union (11%). Eighteen percent of patients required at least one subsequent surgery. The most frequent indication of subsequent surgery was screw removal due to pain or discomfort (9%). Dynamization of the nail to promote union was reported in 8% of the cases. Nail revision and bone-grafting to promote union were applied in 4% and 2% respectively.

DISCUSSION & CONCLUSION

Patients treated with intramedullary nailing for tibial fractures need to be consented for high probability of adverse events as anterior knee pain, subsequent surgical procedures and bone healing problems are relatively common. However, based on current data it remains difficult to identify specifiers and determinants of an individual patient with specific fracture characteristics at risk for complications. Future studies should aim to establish patient specific risks models for complications and re-operations, such that clinicians can anticipate them and adjust and individualize treatment strategies.

Clinical relevance of the anatomy of the long head bicipital groove, an evidence-based review

Pathology in the bicipital groove can be a source of anterior shoulder pain. Many studies have compared treatment techniques for the long head biceps tendon (LHBT) without showing any clinically significant differences. As the LHBT is closely related to the bicipital groove, anatomical aspects of this groove could also be implicated in surgical outcomes. The aim of this review is to contribute to developing the optimal surgical treatment of LHBT pathology based on clinically relevant aspects of the bicipital groove. Medline/PubMed was systematically searched using key words "bicipital" and "groove" and combinations of their synonyms. Studies reporting on evolution, embryonic development, morphometry, vascularization, innervation, and surgical treatment of the LHBT and the bicipital groove were included. The length of the bicipital groove reported in the included studies ranged from 81.00 mm to 87.33 mm, width from 7.74 mm to 11.60 mm, and depth from 3.70 mm to 6.00 mm. The anatomy of the bicipital groove shows a bottleneck narrowing approximately two-thirds from superior. The transverse humeral ligament can constrain the bicipital groove and could be involved in anterior shoulder pain. When either LHBT tenotomy or tenodesis is performed, routinely releasing the transverse ligament could decrease postoperative anterior shoulder pain, which has frequently been reported in the literature. To avoid the bottle neck narrowing, a location below the bicipital groove may be preferred for biceps tenodesis over a more proximal tenodesis site. Level of evidence: IV.

Ankle osteoarthritis and its association with severe ankle injuries, ankle surgeries and health-related quality of life in recently retired professional male football and rugby players: a cross-sectional observational study

OBJECTIVES

To determine (1) the prevalence of ankle osteoarthritis (OA) among former professional football and rugby players, (2) assess the association between ankle injuries or ankle surgeries with ankle OA, and (3) compare the mental and physical quality of life (QoL) between former professional football and rugby players with and without OA.

METHODS

We conducted a questionnaire-based observational study with a cross-sectional design. Former professional football and rugby players were recruited by the Football Players Worldwide and the International Rugby Players. Information concerning ankle OA, sustained ankle injuries and ankle surgeries was gathered (medical record or most recent medical professional). Health-related QoL was assessed using the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) physical and mental health scores.

RESULTS

Overall, 553 former professional football (n=401) and rugby (n=152) players were enrolled in the study (response rate of 56%). Ankle OA prevalence among former professional football and rugby players was 9.2% and 4.6%, respectively. Football players were more likely to suffer from ankle OA following every ankle injury and/or surgery. Football and rugby players with ankle OA had similar PROMIS physical and mental health scores to the norm for the general population.

CONCLUSION

Former professional football and rugby players had higher ankle OA prevalence than the general population (3.4%). Football players are more likely to suffer from ankle OA following every ankle injury and/or surgery. No clinically relevant difference was seen for physical or mental health-related QoL among football and rugby players. Preventive measures for ankle injuries are recommended.

Complete resolution of a hamstring intramuscular tendon injury on MRI is not necessary for a clinically successful return to play

BACKGROUND

Clinical decision-making around intramuscular tendon injuries of the hamstrings is a controversial topic in sports medicine. For this injury, MRI at return to play (RTP) might improve RTP decision-making; however, no studies have investigated this.

OBJECTIVE

Our objectives were to describe MRI characteristics at RTP, to evaluate healing and to examine the association of MRI characteristics at RTP with reinjury for clinically recovered hamstring intramuscular tendon injuries.

METHODS

We included 41 athletes with hamstring intramuscular tendon injuries and an MRI at baseline and RTP. For both MRIs, we used a standardised scoring form that included intramuscular tendon injury characteristics. We recorded reinjuries during 1-year follow-up.

RESULTS

At RTP, 56% of the intramuscular tendons showed a partial or complete thickness tendon discontinuity. Regarding healing from injury to RTP, 18 of 34 (44% overall) partial-thickness tendon discontinuities became continuous and 6 out of 7 (15% overall) complete thickness tendon discontinuities became partial-thickness tendon discontinuities. Waviness decreased from 61% to 12%, and 88% of tendons became thickened. We recorded eight (20%) reinjuries within 1 year. Intramuscular tendon characteristics at RTP between participants with or without a reinjury were similar.

CONCLUSION

Complete resolution of an intramuscular tendon injury on MRI is not necessary for clinically successful RTP. From injury to RTP, the intramuscular tendon displayed signs of healing. Intramuscular tendon characteristics of those with or without a reinjury were similar.

2-Mm Diameter Operative Tendoscopy of the Tibialis Posterior, Peroneal, and Achilles Tendons: A Cadaveric Study

BACKGROUND

Technical innovation now offers the possibility of 2-mm-diameter operative tendoscopy with disposable arthroscopes and tablet-like control units. The promises of new technology should be critically scrutinized. Therefore, this study assessed whether 2-mm-diameter operative tendoscopy of the tibialis posterior, peroneal, and Achilles tendons was safe and effective in a cadaveric model.

METHODS

A 2-mm-diameter arthroscopic system was used to perform a tendoscopic procedure in 10 nonpaired, fresh-frozen, human ankles. Standard tendoscopic portals were utilized. Visual examination and operative reach with tailored tendoscopic instruments within the tendon sheaths were recorded and documented. Adhesiolysis and vincula resections were performed. After dissection, distances between portal tracts and neurovascular structures were measured and the tendons were inspected for signs of iatrogenic damage.

RESULTS

The entire tendon sheath and tendon of the tibialis posterior, peroneus brevis, and Achilles tendons were visualized and reached with tailored operative instruments. The proximal part of the peroneus longus tendon was visible and reachable from proximally up to the cuboid bone distally. Adhesiolysis and vincula resections were successfully performed in all specimens. The mean distances between portal tracts and local neurovascular structures ranged between 9.4 and 19.2 mm and there were no cases of contact. None of the tendons showed signs of iatrogenic damage.

CONCLUSION

Two-millimeter-diameter operative tendoscopy provided safe and effective visualization and operative reach of the tibialis posterior, peroneal, and Achilles tendons.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Compared with current practice, 2-mm-diameter operative tendoscopy has the potential to make tendoscopy around the ankle less invasive and more accessible. Diagnostic, interventional, and second-look procedures might be performed at substantially reduced risk, time, and costs.

Does Activity-Based Rehabilitation With Goal Attainment Scaling Increase Physical Activity Among Younger Knee Arthroplasty Patients? Results From the Randomized Controlled ACTION Trial

BACKGROUND

Especially in younger knee osteoarthritis patients, the ability to perform physical activity (PA) after knee arthroplasty (KA) is of paramount importance, given many patients' wish to return to work and perform demanding leisure time activities. Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS) rehabilitation after KA may improve PA because it uses individualized activity goals. Therefore, our aim was to objectively quantify PA changes after KA and to compare GAS-based rehabilitation to standard rehabilitation.

METHODS

Data were obtained from the randomized controlled ACTION trial, which compares standard rehabilitation with GAS-based rehabilitation after total and unicompartmental KA in patients <65 years of age. At 2 time points, preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively, 120 KA patients wore a validated 3-dimensional accelerometer for 1 consecutive week. Data were classified as sedentary (lying, sitting), standing, and active (walking, cycling, running). Repeated measures analysis of variance was used to compare PA changes over time.

RESULTS

Complete data were obtained for 97 patients (58% female), with a mean age of 58 years (±4.8). For the total group, we observed a significant increase in PA of 9 minutes (±37) per day (P = .01) and significant decrease in sedentary time of 20 minutes (±79) per day (P = .02). There was no difference in standing time (P = .11). There was no difference between the control group and the intervention group regarding changes in PA, nor between the total KA group and the unicompartmental KA group.

CONCLUSION

We found a small but significant increase in overall PA after KA, but no difference between GAS-based rehabilitation and standard rehabilitation. Likely, enhanced multidisciplinary perioperative strategies are needed to further improve PA after KA.

Satisfaction with return to sports after unicompartmental knee arthroplasty and what type of sports are patients doing

PURPOSE

The present study provides insight into patient satisfaction with return to sports after unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) and to what type of activities patients return. This is important because indications for UKA have expanded and younger and more active patients undergo surgery currently.

METHODS

Patients who received a UKA were contacted between 12 and 24 months' post-surgery, receiving a questionnaire to evaluate postoperative satisfaction with return to sports, level of return, type of activities performed pre- and postoperatively, and (activity) outcome scores (NRS, UCLA, HAAS). Descriptive statistical analysis focused on the influence of patients' sex and age, and a regression model was fitted to assess the predictors for high satisfaction postoperatively.

RESULTS

One hundred and sixty-four patients (179 UKAs) with a mean age of 62.3 years responded at an average follow-up of 20.2 months. Preoperatively, 132 patients (81%) participated in sports, which increased to 147 patients (90%) after UKA. Analyzing outcomes for each knee individually, satisfaction with return to sports was recorded in 83% (149/179). Return to a higher or similar level was reported in 85.4% of the cases (117/137). Most common sports after UKA were cycling (45%), swimming (38%), and stationary cycling (27%). Overall, 93.9% of patients were able to return to low impact sports, 63.9% to intermediate and 32.7% to high impact sports. Regarding activity scores, preoperative NRS score improved from 6.40 ± 2.10 to 1.33 ± 1.73 postoperatively (p < .001). The mean preoperative UCLA score improved from 5.93 ± 2.19 to 6.78 ± 1.92 (p < .001) and HAAS score from 9.13 ± 3.55 to 11.08 ± 2.83 postoperatively (p < .001). Regression analyses showed that male sex, preoperative UCLA score and sports participation predicted high activity scores postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

The vast majority of patients undergoing medial UKA returned to sports postoperatively, of which over 80% was satisfied with their restoration of sports ability. Male patients, patients aged ≥70, and patients who participated in low-impact sports preoperatively achieved the highest satisfaction rates. Regarding type of sports, male patients and patients aged ≤55 were most likely to return to high and intermediate impact sports. This study may offer valuable information to help manage patients' expectations regarding their ability to return to sports based on demographics and type of preoperative sporting activities.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Case series; Level of evidence IV.

Factors associated with adverse events after distal tibiofibular syndesmosis fixation

PURPOSE AND HYPOTHESIS

Factors associated with adverse outcomes following surgery for syndesmotic instability with associated closed fibula fracture are incompletely understood. The purpose of this study was to determine the pathoetiology and incidence of adverse events after stabilization of syndesmotic instability. In addition, we aimed to identify any patient or surgeon related factors that might be associated with unanticipated outcomes.

METHODS

Between January 2000 and May 2015, a total of 849 adult patients who were surgically treated with either screw or suture button fixation for syndesmotic instability with associated fibula fracture without open wound were identified and retrospectively evaluated. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to determine factors associated with any postoperative complication or unplanned reoperation.

RESULTS

Within one year after surgery, 10.7% (91 patients) suffered an infectious complication and 22.0% (187 patients) underwent unplanned reoperation. Factors associated with infectious complications were increased duration of hospital admission (OR: 1.08, p = .014), use of an external fixator device before ORIF (OR: 5.19 p < .001), peripheral vascular disease (OR: 4.33, p = .008), and osteoporosis (OR: 2.71, p = .022). For unplanned hardware removal specifically, patients' BMI below 30 was an associated risk factor. (OR: 1.50, p = .010).

CONCLUSION

Certain patient groups have an increased risk of adverse events following the use of current surgical fixation methods for stabilizing the syndesmosis. Patients undergoing surgery for syndesmotic instability with associated fibula fracture without open wound should be counseled that up to 1 in 10 suffer an infectious complication and that 1 in 5 require unplanned hardware removal.

Influence of Preoperative Tibiotalar Alignment in the Coronal Plane on the Survival of Total Ankle Replacement: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

It remains controversial whether significant preoperative tibiotalar varus and valgus deformity should be contraindications for total ankle replacement (TAR). The primary aim of this systematic review was to analyze the influence of preoperative tibiotalar varus and valgus alignment on the survival of TAR.

METHODS

The databases MEDLINE and Embase were searched from onset through September 2018. Two authors performed study selection and data extraction using a predefined data extraction tool. Implant survival in the alignment groups was reported as "revisions per 100 component years." Additional procedures, complications, and revisions were also reported. Assessment of the methodological quality was performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS).

RESULTS

In total, 17 studies were considered eligible, in which a total of 1692 TARs were included from 1627 patients. The weighted mean follow-up was 52.4 (range, 1-147) months. The neutral alignment group included 711 TARs, the varus group included 545 TARs, and the valgus group included 332 TARs. Total revisions were 52, 37, and 36 in the preoperative tibiotalar neutral, varus, and valgus alignment groups, respectively. Revisions per 100 observed component years were 1.6, 1.7, and 2.5 in the preoperative tibiotalar neutral, varus, and valgus alignment groups, respectively. A total of 129 complications and 447 additional procedures were reported in 601 TARs.

CONCLUSION

There was a strong indication that preoperative varus alignment in the coronal plane had a comparable implant survival to neutral alignment. Preoperative valgus alignment demonstrated a more negative influence on implant survival.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, systematic review.

Sports career-related concussion and mental health symptoms in former elite athletes

BACKGROUND

In elite sports, concussion is common and recurrent, especially in high-speed contact or collision sports such as american and australian football, ice hockey and rugby. Mental health symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression, sleep disturbance) are often reported by former elite athletes, with prevalence ranging from 16% for distress to 26% for anxiety/depression. This article focuses on the potential relationship between sports career-related concussion and mental health symptoms in former elite athletes.

METHOD

A narrative mini-review was based on the scientific literature.

RESULTS

Some literature based on cross-sectional data suggests that sports career-related concussion might lead in the long term to mental health symptoms in former elite athletes. Retired professional American football players reporting three or more previous concussions were found to be three times more likely to be diagnosed with depression than those with no history of concussion. Former professional athletes from football, ice hockey and rugby who reported a history of six or more concussions were approximately up to five times more likely to report mental health symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

While longitudinal evidence about any causal relationship is lacking, the suggested relationship between sports career-related concussion and mental health symptoms in former elite athletes warrants the development of support measures for elite athletes transitioning out of sport, especially for those with a history of concussion.

Predictors of Return to Work After High Tibial Osteotomy: The Importance of Being a Breadwinner

Background

Limited evidence exists on patient-relevant outcomes after high tibial osteotomy (HTO), including return to work (RTW). Furthermore, prognostic factors for RTW have never been described.

Purpose

To investigate the extent and timing of RTW in the largest HTO cohort investigated for RTW to date and to identify prognostic factors for RTW after HTO.

Study Design

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

Consecutive patients who underwent HTO between 2012 and 2015 were included. Patients received a questionnaire at a mean follow-up of 3.6 years. Questions were asked pre- and postoperatively regarding work status, job title, working hours, preoperative sick leave, employment status, and whether patients were their family's breadwinner. The validated Work Rehabilitation Questionnaire (WORQ) was used to assess difficulty with knee-demanding activities. Prognostic factors for RTW were analyzed using a logistic regression model. Covariates were selected based on univariate analysis and a directed acyclic graph.

Results

We identified 402 consecutive patients who underwent HTO, of whom 349 were included. Preoperatively, 299 patients worked, of whom 284 (95%) achieved RTW and 255 (90%) returned within 6 months. Patients reported significant postoperative improvements in performing knee-demanding activities. Being the family's breadwinner was the strongest predictor of RTW (odds ratio [OR], 2.92; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.27-6.69). In contrast, preoperative sick leave was associated with lower odds of RTW (OR, 0.20; 95% CI, 0.08-0.46).

Conclusion

After HTO, 95% of patients were able to RTW, of whom 9 of 10 returned within 6 months. Breadwinners were more likely to RTW, and patients with preoperative sick leave were less likely to RTW within 6 months. These findings may be used to improve preoperative counseling and expectation management and thereby enhance work-related outcomes after HTO.

Minimally invasive reconstruction technique for chronic Achilles tendon tears allows rapid return to walking and leads to good functional recovery

PURPOSE

Chronic Achilles tendon tears, including chronic ruptures with end gap over 6 cm making end-to-end suturing impossible, can be treated with autologous hamstring graft reconstruction. The primary goal of this study was to present the biomechanical and long-term clinical results of recently developed minimally invasive Achilles tendon reconstruction technique.

METHODS

Minimally invasive Achilles tendon reconstruction was applied to 8 foot and ankle cadaveric specimens as well as 18 patients with chronic Achilles tendon tears. Repaired cadavers were subjected to the biomechanical testing using a cyclic loading protocol. Patients with reconstructed Achilles tendon were subjected to the clinical, functional and isokinetic tests at 12 months after the treatment.

RESULTS

All of tested Achilles cadaveric specimens survived 2 loading blocks (250 cycles of 10-100 N load followed by additional 250 cycles of 10-200 N load). With three specimens, it was possible to perform the third cyclic loading block with 20-300 N load and two specimens survived the fourth block with 20-400 N load. Therefore, a mean number of 838 cycles (±178) within the range of 509-1000 was recorded. Two specimens which survived all 1000 cycles were pulled to failure at 25 mm/s rate. The results obtained in the load to failure testing were as follows: 398 N and 608 N of maximum load. The results of functional heel rise endurance test and single leg hop for distance test indicated a decrease in the endurance and strength of the injured limb. However, the results of the weight-bearing lunge tests indicated no tendency for elongation of the Achilles tendon. A comparative analysis of the isokinetic test results for the non-injured and injured limb was revealed no statistically significant differences for every isokinetic test (n. s.), with significant difference for isometric strength parameters (p = 0.0006).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the biomechanical tests as well as 1-year extensive functional, clinical and isokinetic results of the minimally invasive technique for chronic Achilles tendon tears are encouraging. Patients returned to their normal physical activity, including sport pre-injury level in most cases.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Two-millimetre diameter operative arthroscopy of the ankle is safe and effective

PURPOSE

Technical innovation now offers the possibility of 2-mm diameter operative arthroscopy: an alternative to conventional arthroscopy that no longer uses inner rod-lenses. The purpose of this study was to assess whether all significant structures in the ankle could be visualized and surgically reached during 2-mm diameter operative arthroscopy, without inflicting iatrogenic damage.

METHODS

A novel, 2-mm diameter arthroscopic system was used to perform a protocolled arthroscopic procedure in 10 fresh-frozen, human donor ankles. Standard anteromedial and anterolateral portals were utilized. Visualization and reach with tailored arthroscopic instruments of a protocolled list of articular structures were recorded and documented. A line was etched on the most posterior border of the talar and tibial cartilage that was safely reachable. The specimens were dissected and distances between portal tracts and neurovascular structures were measured. The articular surfaces of talus and tibia were photographed and inspected for iatrogenic damage. The reachable area on the articular surface was calculated and analysed.

RESULTS

All significant structures were successfully visualized and reached in all specimens. The anteromedial portal was not in contact with neurovascular structures in any specimen. The anterolateral portal collided with a branch of the superficial peroneal nerve in one case but did not cause macroscopically apparent harm. On average, 96% and 85% of the talar and tibial surfaces was reachable respectively, without causing iatrogenic damage.

CONCLUSION

2-mm diameter operative arthroscopy provides safe and effective visualization and surgical reach of the anterior ankle joint. It may hold the potential to make ankle arthroscopy less invasive and more accessible.

Arthroscopic lift, drill, fill and fix (LDFF) is an effective treatment option for primary talar osteochondral defects

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to describe the mid-term clinical and radiological results of a novel arthroscopic fixation technique for primary osteochondral defects (OCD) of the talus, named the lift, drill, fill and fix (LDFF) technique.

METHODS

Twenty-seven ankles (25 patients) underwent an arthroscopic LDFF procedure for primary fixable talar OCDs. The mean follow-up was 27 months (SD 5). Pre- and post-operative clinical assessments were prospectively performed by measuring the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) of pain in/at rest, walking and when running. Additionally, the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and the Short Form-36 (SF-36) were used to assess clinical outcome. The patients were radiologically assessed by means of computed tomography (CT) scans pre-operatively and 1 year post-operatively.

RESULTS

The mean NRS during running significantly improved from 7.8 pre-operatively to 2.9 post-operatively (p = 0.006), the NRS during walking from 5.7 to 2.0 (p < 0.001) and the NRS in rest from 2.3 to 1.2 (p = 0.015). The median FAOS at final follow-up was 86 for pain, 63 for other symptoms, 95 for activities of daily living, 70 for sport and 53 for quality of life. A pre- and post-operative score comparison was available for 16 patients, and improved significantly in most subscores. The SF-36 physical component scale significantly improved from 42.9 to 50.1. Of the CT scans at 1 year after surgery, 81% showed a flush subchondral bone plate and 92% of OCDs showed union.

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic LDFF of a fixable primary talar OCD results in excellent improvement of clinical outcomes. The radiological follow-up confirms that fusion of the fragment is feasible in 92%. This technique could be regarded as the new gold standard for the orthopedic surgeon comfortable with arthroscopic procedures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prospective case series, therapeutic level IV.

Arthroscopic primary repair of proximal anterior cruciate ligament tears seems safe but higher level of evidence is needed: a systematic review and meta-analysis of recent literature

PURPOSE

To assess the outcomes of the various techniques of primary repair of proximal anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears in the recent literature using a systematic review with meta-analysis.

METHODS

PRISMA guidelines were followed. All studies reporting outcomes of arthroscopic primary repair of proximal ACL tears using primary repair, repair with static (suture) augmentation and dynamic augmentation between January 2014 and July 2019 in PubMed, Embase and Cochrane were identified and included. Primary outcomes were failure rates and reoperation rates, and secondary outcomes were patient-reported outcome scores.

RESULTS

A total of 13 studies and 1,101 patients (mean age 31 years, mean follow-up 2.1 years, 60% male) were included. Nearly all studies were retrospective studies without a control group and only one randomized study was identified. Grade of recommendation for primary repair was weak. There were 9 out of 74 failures following primary repair (10%), 6 out of 69 following repair with static augmentation (7%) and 106 out of 958 following dynamic augmentation (11%). Repair with dynamic augmentation had more reoperations (99; 10%), and more hardware removal (255; 29%) compared to the other procedures. All functional outcome scores were > 85% of maximum scores.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review with meta-analysis found that the different techniques of primary repair are safe with failure rates of 7-11%, no complications and functional outcome scores of > 85% of maximum scores. There was a high risk of bias and follow-up was short with 2.1 years. Prospective studies comparing the outcomes to ACL reconstruction with sufficient follow-up are needed prior to widespread implementation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

The anterior tibiofibular ligament has a constant distal fascicle that contacts the anterolateral part of the talus

PURPOSE

The anterior tibiofibular ligament (ATiFL) and its distal fascicle have been the subject of numerous studies, mainly due to the involvement of this ligament in anterolateral soft-tissue impingement of the ankle. There is currently no firm evidence related to the incidence of the distal fascicle or the frequency with which it is in contact with the talus, or whether this is a constant anatomic finding. In addition, the terminology used to refer to this structure is not accurate and varies widely in previous studies. The purpose of this study was to perform an anatomic study on a large number of specimens to clarify the anatomy of the anterior tibiofibular ligament, and specifically its distal fascicle, and its possible role in anterior ankle impingement syndrome.

METHODS

During a 7-year period (2010-2016), cadaveric ankle specimens dissected at our Anatomy Department were included in this study, accounting for a total of 154 ankles. The incidence of the distal fascicle and its contact with the talus were documented.

RESULTS

One hundred and seventeen ankles were included [78 men, 39 women, with a median age of 79.3 years (range 51-100 years)]. The ATiFL was found to have a distal fascicle in 100% of ankles, contacting the anterolateral part of the talus in all cases. The contact was increased in plantarflexion and reduced in dorsiflexion and finally disappeared completely in maximum dorsiflexion.

CONCLUSIONS

The ATiFL has a constant distal fascicle that is in contact with the talus in the neutral position and in plantar flexion. Contact disappears in maximum dorsiflexion.

Impact of concussion and severe musculoskeletal injuries on the onset of mental health symptoms in male professional rugby players: a 12-month study

Objective

This study explored the association between concussion or musculoskeletal injuries, and the onset of mental health symptoms (MHS) in male professional rugby players over a 12-month period.

Methods

Observational prospective cohort study with three measurements over a follow-up period of 12 months. At baseline, 573 participants provided informed consent. A total of 327 male professional rugby players (62% forwards, 38% backs) completed all follow-up assessments at baseline, 6 months and 12 months. The mean (±SD) age, height and weight of the participants at baseline was 25.9 (±4.4) years, 184.9 (±8.7) cm and 101.5 (±14.6) kg, respectively. Number of musculoskeletal injuries and number of confirmed concussions were assessed through single questions. Symptoms of distress, anxiety/depression, sleep disturbance, adverse alcohol use and eating disorders were assessed using validated questionnaires.

Results

Professional rugby players who sustained a concussion within 12 months of baseline were more likely to develop MHS with ORs ranging from 1.5 (95% CI 1.0 to 2.1) for distress to 2.0 (1.2 to 3.6) for adverse alcohol use. Players who sustained a severe injury within 12 months of baseline were more likely to develop symptoms anxiety/depression with an OR of 1.5 (1.1 to 2.0). There was no significant association in both groups for other MHS.

Conclusions

Rugby players who sustained concussion or severe injuries are up to two times more likely to develop symptoms of distress, adverse alcohol use or anxiety/depression.

Volar Plating: Imaging Modalities for the Detection of Screw Penetration

Background  Volar plating for distal radius fractures exposes the risk of extensor tendon rupture, mechanical problems, and osteoarthritis due to protruding screws. Purposes  The purpose of this review was to identify the best intraoperative diagnostic imaging modality to identify dorsal and intra-articular protruding screws in volar plating for distal radius fractures. Methods  The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines were followed for this review. In vitro and in vivo studies that analyzed the reliability, efficacy, and/or accuracy of intraoperatively available imaging modalities for the detection of dorsal or intra-articular screw protrusion after volar plating for distal radius fractures were included. Results  Described additional imaging modalities are additional fluoroscopic views (pronated views, dorsal tangential view [DTV], radial groove view [RGV], and carpal shoot through [CST] view), three-dimensional (3D) and rotational fluoroscopies, and ultrasound (US). For detection of dorsal screw penetration, additional fluoroscopic views show better results than conventional views. Based on small (pilot) studies, US seems to be promising. For intra-articular screw placement, 3D or 360 degrees fluoroscopy shows better result than conventional views. Conclusion  Based on this systematic review, the authors recommend the use of at least one of the following additional imaging modalities to prevent dorsal protruding screws: CST view, DTV, or RGV. Tilt views are recommended for intra-articular assessment. Of all additional fluoroscopic views, the DTV is most studied and proves to be practical and time efficient, with higher efficacy, accuracy, and reliability compared with conventional views. Level of Evidence  The level of evidence is Level III.