Trends in the diagnosis of SLAP lesions in the US military

Outcomes of Concomitant Glenohumeral Stabilization After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair in Military Patients Younger Than 40 Years

Background

While concomitant rotator cuff and inferior labral tears are relatively uncommon in young civilians, military populations represent a unique opportunity to study this injury pattern.

Purpose

To (1) evaluate the long-term outcomes after combined arthroscopic rotator cuff and inferior labral repair in military patients <40 years and (2) compare functional outcomes with those after isolated arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

Study Design

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

Military patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair between January 2011 and December 2016 and had a minimum of 5-year follow-up data were included in this study. The patients were categorized into those who had undergone combined arthroscopic rotator cuff and inferior labral repair (RCIL cohort) and those who had isolated arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR cohort). Pre- and postoperative outcome measures-visual analog scale for pain, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons shoulder score, Rowe Instability Score, and range of motion-were compared between the groups.

Results

A total of 50 shoulders (27 in the RCIL cohort and 23 in the ARCR cohort) were assessed. The RCIL and ARCR groups were similar in terms of age (mean, 33.19 years [range, 21-39 years] vs 35.39 years [range, 26-39 years], respectively) and sex (% male, 88.46% vs 82.61%, respectively). All patients were active-duty military at the time of surgery. The mean final follow-up was at 106.93 ± 16.66 months for the RCIL group and 105.70 ± 7.52 months for the ARCR group (P = .75). There were no differences in preoperative outcome scores between groups. Postoperatively, both groups experienced statistically significant improvements in all outcome scores (P < .0001 for all), and there were no significant group differences in any final postoperative outcome measures. At the final follow-up, 26 (96.30%) patients in the RCIL cohort and 20 (86.96%) in the ARCR cohort had returned to unrestricted active-duty military service (P = .3223).

Conclusion

The study findings indicate that concomitant glenohumeral stabilization does not prevent worse outcomes after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair in this military cohort. Combined repair produced statistically and clinically significant improvements in outcome scores at the long-term follow-up, indicating that simultaneous repair of combined lesions was an appropriate treatment option in this patient population.

Concomitant Biceps Tenodesis Does Not Portend Inferior Outcomes After Anterior Glenohumeral Stabilization

BACKGROUND

Military patients are known to suffer disproportionately high rates of glenohumeral instability as well as superior labrum anterior to posterior (SLAP) tears. Additionally, a concomitant SLAP tear is frequently observed in patients with anterior shoulder instability. Even though biceps tenodesis has been demonstrated to produce superior outcomes to SLAP repair in military patients with isolated SLAP lesions, no existing studies have reported on outcomes after simultaneous tenodesis and anterior labral repair in patients with co-existing abnormalities.

PURPOSE

To evaluate outcomes after simultaneous arthroscopic-assisted subpectoral biceps tenodesis and anterior labral repair in military patients younger than 40 years. We also sought to compare these outcomes with those after repair of an isolated anterior labral tear.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

This study is a retrospective analysis of all military patients younger than 40 years from a single base who underwent arthroscopic anterior glenohumeral stabilization with or without concomitant biceps tenodesis between January 2010 and December 2019. Patients with glenoid bone loss of >13.5% were not eligible for inclusion. Outcome measures including the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) shoulder score, the Rowe instability score, and range of motion were administered preoperatively and postoperatively, and scores were compared between groups.

RESULTS

A total of 82 patients met inclusion criteria for the study. All patients were active-duty service members at the time of surgery. The mean follow-up was 87.75 ± 27.05 months in the repair + tenodesis group and 94.07 ± 28.72 months in the isolated repair group (P = .3085). Patients who underwent repair + tenodesis had significantly worse preoperative VAS pain (6.85 ± 1.86 vs 5.02 ± 2.07, respectively; P < .001), ASES (51.78 ± 11.89 vs 62.43 ± 12.35, respectively; P = .0002), and Rowe (26.75 ± 7.81 vs 37.26 ± 14.91, respectively; P = .0002) scores than patients who underwent isolated repair. Both groups experienced significant improvements in outcome scores postoperatively (P < .0001 for all), and there were no statistically significant differences in postoperative outcome scores or range of motion between groups. There were no differences in the percentage of patients who achieved the minimal clinically important difference, substantial clinical benefit, and patient acceptable symptom state for the VAS pain, SANE, ASES, and Rowe scores between groups. Overall, 37 of the 40 (92.50%) patients in the repair + tenodesis group and 40 of the 42 (95.24%) patients in the isolated repair group returned to unrestricted active-duty military service (P = .6045). In addition, 38 (95.00%) patients in the repair + tenodesis group and 40 (95.24%) patients in the isolated repair group returned to preinjury levels of sporting activity (P = .9600). There were no significant differences in the number of failures, revision surgical procedures, or patients discharged from the military between groups (P = .9421, P = .9400, and P = .6045, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study indicate that simultaneous biceps tenodesis and labral repair was a viable treatment option for the management of concomitant SLAP and anterior labral lesions in young, active military patients younger than 40 years.

Simultaneous Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair and Glenoid Microfracture in Active-Duty Military Patients Younger Than 50 Years: Outcomes at Midterm Follow-up

Background

While concomitant full-thickness rotator cuff tears and glenoid osteochondral defects are relatively uncommon in younger patients, military patients represent a unique opportunity to study this challenging injury pattern.

Purpose/Hypothesis

To compare the outcomes of young, active-duty military patients who underwent isolated arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) with those who underwent ARCR plus concurrent glenoid microfracture (ARCR+Mfx). It was hypothesized that ARCR+Mfx would produce significant improvements in patient-reported outcome measures.

Study Design

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of consecutive active-duty military patients from a single base who underwent ARCR for full-thickness rotator cuff tears between January 2012 and December 2020. All patients were <50 years and had minimum 2-year follow-up data. Patients who underwent ARCR+Mfx were compared with those who underwent isolated ARCR based on the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) shoulder score, and range of motion.

Results

A total of 88 patients met the inclusion criteria for this study: 28 underwent ARCR+Mfx and 60 underwent isolated ARCR. The mean final follow-up was 74.11 ± 33.57 months for the ARCR+Mfx group and 72.87 ± 11.46 months for the ARCR group (P = .80). There were no differences in baseline patient characteristics or preoperative outcome scores between groups. Postoperatively, both groups experienced statistically significant improvements in all outcome scores (P < .0001 for all). However, the ARCR+Mfx group had significantly worse VAS pain (1.89 ± 2.22 vs 1.03 ± 1.70; P = .05), SANE (85.46 ± 12.99 vs 91.93 ± 12.26; P = .03), and ASES (86.25 ± 14.14 vs 92.85 ± 12.57; P = .03) scores. At the final follow-up, 20 (71.43%) patients in the ARCR+Mfx group and 53 (88.33%) patients in the ARCR group were able to remain on unrestricted active-duty military service (P = .05).

Conclusion

Concomitant ARCR+Mfx led to statistically and clinically significant improvements in patient-reported outcome measures at the midterm follow-up. However, patients who underwent ARCR+Mfx had significantly worse outcomes and were less likely to return to active-duty military service than those who underwent isolated ARCR. The study findings suggest that ARCR+Mfx may be a reasonable option for young, active patients who are not candidates for arthroplasty.

Midterm Outcomes Following Combined Biceps Tenodesis and Anterior Labral Repair in Active Duty Military Patients Younger than 35 Years

BACKGROUND

Superior labrum anterior-posterior (SLAP) lesions and anterior instability are common causes of shoulder pain and dysfunction among active-duty members of the United States military. However, little data have been published regarding the surgical management of type V SLAP lesions.

PURPOSE

To compare the outcomes of arthroscopic-assisted subpectoral biceps tenodesis and anterior labral repair with those of arthroscopic SLAP repair (defined as contiguous repair spanning from the superior labrum to the anteroinferior labrum) for type V SLAP tears in active-duty military patients younger than 35 years.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

All consecutive patients from January 2010 to December 2015 who underwent arthroscopic SLAP repair or combined biceps tenodesis and anterior labral repair for a type V SLAP lesion with a minimum 5-year follow-up were identified. The decision to perform type V SLAP repair versus combined biceps tenodesis and anterior labral repair was based on the condition of the long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT). Labral repair was performed in patients who had a type V SLAP tear with an otherwise clinically and anatomically healthy LHBT. Combined tenodesis and repair was performed in patients with evidence of LHBT abnormalities. Outcomes including the visual analog scale (VAS) score, the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) score, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) shoulder score, the Rowe instability score, and range of motion were collected preoperatively and postoperatively, and scores were compared between the groups.

RESULTS

A total of 84 patients met the inclusion criteria for the study. All patients were active-duty service members at the time of surgery. A total of 44 patients underwent arthroscopic type V SLAP repair, and 40 patients underwent anterior labral repair with biceps tenodesis. The mean follow-up was 102.59 ± 20.98 months in the repair group and 94.50 ± 27.11 months in the tenodesis group (P = .1281). There were no significant differences in preoperative range of motion or outcome scores between the groups. Both groups experienced statistically significant improvements in outcome scores postoperatively (P < .0001 for all); however, compared with the repair group, the tenodesis group reported significantly better postoperative VAS (2.52 ± 2.36 vs 1.50 ± 1.91, respectively; P = .0328), SANE (86.82 ± 11.00 vs 93.43 ± 8.81, respectively; P = .0034), and ASES (83.32 ± 15.31 vs 89.90 ± 13.31, respectively; P = .0394) scores. There were no differences in the percentage of patients who achieved the minimal clinically important difference, substantial clinical benefit, and patient acceptable symptom state for the SANE and ASES between the groups. Overall, 34 patients in each group returned to preinjury levels of work (77.3% vs 85.0%, respectively; P = .3677), and 32 patients (72.7%) in the repair group and 33 patients (82.5%) in the tenodesis group returned to preinjury levels of sporting activity (P = .2850). There were no significant differences in the number of failures, revision surgical procedures, or patients discharged from the military between the groups (P = .0923, P = .1602, and P = .2919, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Both arthroscopic-assisted subpectoral biceps tenodesis combined with anterior labral repair and arthroscopic SLAP repair led to statistically and clinically significant increases in outcome scores, marked improvements in pain, and high rates of return to unrestricted active duty in military patients with type V SLAP lesions. The results of this study suggest that biceps tenodesis combined with anterior labral repair produces comparable outcomes to arthroscopic type V SLAP repair in active-duty military patients younger than 35 years.

High Rate of Return to Sporting Activity Among Overhead Athletes With Subpectoral Biceps Tenodesis for Type II SLAP Tear

PURPOSE

To evaluate the functional and athletic outcomes after primary subpectoral biceps tenodesis for type II SLAP tear in overhead athletes.

METHODS

All competitive elite athletes with type II SLAP tears undergoing biceps tenodesis by a single surgeon were isolated between 2007 and 2015. Exclusion criteria were applied to individuals not involved in overhead athletics, clinical follow-up <24 months, adjacent rotator cuff or labral repair, concomitant SLAP repair, and/or previous arthroscopic shoulder surgery. Patient-reported outcome measures included visual analog scale (VAS), Kerlan Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic shoulder score, and Single Assessment Numerical Assessment. Clinical and sporting outcomes were recorded using a sports-specific questionnaire.

RESULTS

Of 22 identified patients, 16 competitive overhead athletes (72.7%; 11 men, 5 women) with a mean age of 21.0 years were available at mean 4.5-year follow-up. Baseball or softball comprised the majority of patients (n = 9; 56.3%), followed by gymnastics (n = 2), swimming (n = 2), and other sports (n = 3). At mean 4.1 months postoperatively, 13 patients (81.3%) returned to previous level of athletic activity, whereas 2 patients (12.5%) failed to return to sporting activity and 1 (6.3%) returned at a lower level of competition. VAS pain significantly decreased from an average of 4.4 preoperatively to 1.7 postoperatively (P = .002), and mean Single Assessment Numerical Assessment scores also demonstrated significant improvement (55.4-76.7; P = .008). Final mean Kerlan Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic score was 74.0 (standard deviation 25.9), including 2 patients with suboptimal outcomes due to persistent pain. There were no significant differences in mean forward flexion or rotation in either the adducted or throwing position (P > .05), although small, significant decreases in postoperative active abduction were noted (165° vs 155°; P = .003).

CONCLUSIONS

In the current series of competitive overhead athletes, 81% of patients returned to previous level of play at an average of 4.1 months postoperatively after subpectoral biceps tenodesis for symptomatic SLAP tear. Athletes reliably experienced significant decreased activity-related pain with athletic function.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, case series.

Glenoid microfracture in active-duty military patients: minimum 5-year follow-up demonstrates 75% survival

Background

To present midterm patient-reported outcomes and survivorship data of active-duty military patients undergoing microfracture for full-thickness cartilage defects of the glenoid.

Methods

All consecutive patients from January 2013 through December 2016 who underwent glenoid microfracture for full-thickness cartilage injuries with complete outcome scores were identified. Twenty patients met the final inclusion criteria for the study, and all were active-duty military at the time of surgery. A separate subgroup analysis was performed to determine if dominant-shoulder involvement portends worse outcomes.

Results

The mean follow-up was 81.45 ± 19.43 months (range, 60-108). Of the 20 patients, 5 required a secondary surgical procedure within 5 years of their index procedure, with an average time to failure of 45.6 ± 13.15 months. For the 15 patients who did not fail, there was a statistically significant increase in the mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (57.20 vs. 88.27, P < .0001) and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (45.00 vs. 86.33, P < .0001). Mean pain decreased significantly as measured by the pain visual analog scale (5.40 vs. 1.37, P < .0001). Range of motion in forward elevation, external rotation, and internal rotation did not change significantly postoperatively (P = .4528, .4810, and .1919, respectively). Concomitant procedures did not predict changes in pain, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, or Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation scores. A majority of patients (13/20, 65%) were able to remain on unrestricted military active-duty service, but 7 (35%) underwent medical discharge, including the 5 patients who had experienced treatment failure, plus 2 additional patients.

Conclusion

Glenoid microfracture can result in pain relief and symptomatic improvement for a select group of active-duty military patients, with 75% survivorship at 5 years. Approximately one in three (35%) patients, however, were unable to remain on active-duty military service.

Biceps Tenodesis Has Greater Expected Value Than Repair for Isolated Type II SLAP Tears: A Meta-analysis and Expected-Value Decision Analysis

PURPOSE

To use an expected-value decision analysis to determine the optimal treatment decision between repair and biceps tenodesis (BT) for an isolated type II SLAP injury.

METHODS

An expected-value decision analysis with sensitivity analysis was performed to systematically quantify the clinical decision. To determine outcome probabilities, a decision tree was constructed (repair vs BT) and a meta-analysis was conducted. To determine outcome utilities, we evaluated 70 patients with a chief complaint of shoulder pain regarding age, sex, Shoulder Activity Level, and visual analog scale score in terms of potential outcome preferences. Statistical fold-back analysis was performed to determine the optimal treatment. One-way sensitivity analysis determined the effect of changing the reinjury rate on the expected value of BT.

RESULTS

The overall expected value was 8.66 for BT versus 7.19 for SLAP repair. One-way sensitivity analysis showed that BT was the superior choice if reinjury rates were expected to be lower than 28%. Meta-analysis of 23 studies and 908 patients revealed that the probability of a "well" outcome was significantly greater for BT (87.8%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 74.9%-94.6%; I² = 0.0%) than for SLAP repair (62.9%; 95% CI, 55.9%-69.3%; I² = 65.9%; P = .0023). The rate of reinjury was 1.5% for BT (95% CI, 0.05%-33.8%; I² = 0.0%) and 6.4% for repair (95% CI, 4.2%-9.6%; I² = 24%), which was not statistically significantly different (P = .411). A total of 50 participants (mean age, 25.4 years [standard deviation, 8.9 years]; 76% male patients; 50% overhead athletes) met the inclusion criteria. Forty-six percent of participants had a high Shoulder Activity Level score.

CONCLUSIONS

Decision analysis showed that BT is preferred over repair for an isolated type II SLAP tear based on greater expected value of BT versus repair. Meta-analysis showed more frequent favorable outcomes with BT. Surgeons can use this information to tailor discussions with patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, meta-analysis of Level I-IV studies.

Arthroscopic Posterior Labral Repair in Active-Duty Military Patients: A Reliable Solution for an At-Risk Population, Regardless of Anchor Type

BACKGROUND

Active-duty servicemembers are a population at risk for the development of posterior shoulder instability. While short-term outcomes after arthroscopic posterior labral repair for posterior shoulder instability are promising, there is a paucity of longer term follow-up data for this procedure.

PURPOSES

The primary purpose was to report midterm outcomes after arthroscopic posterior labral repair in active-duty military patients for posterior shoulder instability without bone loss. The secondary purpose was to determine if outcomes varied between anchor types used.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

Preoperative and postoperative outcomes, with a minimum 3-year follow-up, for a visual analog scale for pain, the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, and the Rowe score were collected and analyzed. A separate subgroup analysis was performed comparing the outcomes of patients who underwent repair with biocomposite anchors versus those who underwent repair with all-suture anchors.

RESULTS

A total of 73 patients with a mean follow-up of 82.55 ± 24.20 months met the inclusion criteria and were available for analysis. As a whole, the cohort demonstrated statistically and clinically significant improvements in outcome scores at final follow-up. Preoperative and postoperative range of motion did not vary significantly. While the difference in final outcome scores between the 2 anchor types did not reach statistical significance, a statistically significantly larger proportion of patients who underwent repair with all-suture anchors versus those who underwent repair with biocomposite anchors met the Patient Acceptable Symptom State for the SANE (97.14% vs 78.95%, respectively; P = .0180) and the ASES score (88.57% vs 68.42%, respectively; P = .0171). The proportion of patients who achieved the substantial clinical benefit or surpassed the minimal clinically important difference, however, did not vary by anchor type. Overall, 70 patients (95.89%) remained on active duty and were able to return to preinjury work and recreational activity levels. There were 3 patients (4.11%) who had recurrent posterior instability.

CONCLUSION

This population of active-duty servicemembers undergoing posterior labral repair for posterior labral instability without bone loss demonstrated a statistically and clinically significant improvement in midterm outcomes, a low recurrence rate, and a rate of return to active duty of 95.89%, regardless of the anchor type used.

Biceps Tenodesis Combined With Arthroscopic Posterior Labral Repair for Type VIII SLAP Lesions in Active-Duty Military Patients Yields Excellent Return to Military Duty

PURPOSE

To report short-term outcomes following biceps tenodesis combined with arthroscopic posterior labral repair of type VIII SLAP lesions in active-duty military patients.

METHODS

All consecutive patients from January 2012 through December 2018 who underwent biceps tenodesis combined with arthroscopic posterior labral repair of type VIII SLAP tears performed by the senior surgeon with complete outcome scores and minimum 2.5 years follow-up were identified. Exclusion criteria included concomitant glenoid microfracture, rotator cuff repair, or other capsulolabral repair. Outcome measures were completed by patients within 7 days before surgery and at latest follow-up. Biceps tenodesis performed was a mini-open, through a subpectoral approach, using a double-loaded 2.9mm suture-anchor.

RESULTS

Thirty-two patients met the inclusion criteria for the study. All patients were active-duty military at time of surgery. Average follow-up was 73.53 ± 22.37 months. Thirty-one patients achieved the minimal clinically important difference, 30 of 32 reached the substantial clinical benefit, and 31 of 32 met the patient acceptable symptomatic state, as defined for the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Shoulder Score. Similarly, 30 of 32 patients reached the minimal clinically important difference, 29 of 32 achieved the substantial clinical benefit, and 32 of 32 met the patient acceptable symptomatic state for the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation. There were no significant changes in forward flexion, external rotation, or internal rotation between pre- and postoperative measurements. Three patients reported postoperative complications and 1 patient progressed to further surgery. Thirty (93.75%) patients remained on active-duty military service and were able to return to preinjury levels of activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Active-duty military patients with type VIII SLAP tears had statistically and clinically significant increases in outcome scores, marked improvement in pain, and high rates of return to unrestricted active-duty following mini-open subpectoral biceps tenodesis combined with posterior labral repair.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, retrospective case series.

Long-term Results of Arthroscopic Repair of Full-Thickness Traumatic Rotator Cuff Tears in Active Duty Military Patients Under the Age of 40 Years

BACKGROUND

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is an effective procedure through which to decrease pain and increase strength, with favorable long-term outcomes demonstrated in older patient populations with full-thickness rotator cuff tears. The long-term outcomes after this procedure in younger, higher-demand patients, however, is not as clearly defined.

PURPOSE

To report on the long-term outcomes after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair of traumatic full-thickness rotator cuff tears in active duty military patients under the age of 40 years at the time of surgery.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Preoperative, midterm, and final evaluations were collected, including scores on the visual analog scale for pain, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons shoulder form. A total of 42 patients were screened for inclusion: 3 underwent additional surgical procedures on the operative shoulder and 2 were lost to follow-up, leaving 37 patients with mean follow-up of 104.51 months available for analysis. A subgroup analysis was performed comparing outcomes between patients with Southern California Orthopaedic Institute grade 1 or 2 tears and those with grade 3 or 4 tears.

RESULTS

At final follow-up, pain per the visual analog scale decreased to 1.16 from 8.03 (P < .0001); the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score increased to 87.32 from 48.24 (P < .0001); and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score increased to 88.68 from 41.00 (P < .0001). There was no statistically significant difference in outcome scores or range of motion between midterm and final follow-up. Improvement in outcome scores and range of motion at final follow-up did not vary between patients with small and large tears. Of 42 patients, 37 (88.1%) were able to return to full unrestricted active duty and sporting activity, while 5 (11.9%) were medically separated from the military.

CONCLUSION

Active duty military patients under the age of 40 years with traumatic full-thickness rotator cuff tears had statistically and clinically significant increases in outcome scores and decreases in pain after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair at long-term follow-up.

Primary Double-Pulley SLAP Repair in an Active-Duty Military Population With Type II SLAP Lesions Results in Improved Outcomes and Low Failure Rates at Minimum Six Years of Follow-up

Purpose

To report mid-term outcomes of active-duty patients younger than the age of 35 years with shoulder type II SLAP lesions following our technique for double-pulley SLAP repair (DPSR).

Methods

All consecutive patients aged 18 to 35 years from January 2014 through December 2015 who underwent primary DPSR by the senior surgeon with complete outcome scores were identified. The clinical significance measures (patient acceptable symptomatic state [PASS], substantial clinical benefit [SCB], minimal clinically important difference [MCID]) have not yet been fully defined for type II SLAP repair procedures, so the values for biceps tenodesis were used as a stand-in. Patients were excluded if they were lost to follow-up of if they underwent a concomitant rotator cuff repair. Outcome measures were completed by patients within 1 week before surgery and at latest follow-up.

Results

Overall, 22 of 41 (53.7%) patients met the inclusion criteria for the study, and all were active-duty military at time of surgery. In total, 21 of 22 (95.5%) patients met the PASS, whereas 20 of 22 (90.9%) achieved SCB and 22 of 22 (100.0%) exceeded the MCID for their operative shoulder as determined by the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score. In total, 19 of 22 (86.4%) patients met the PASS, whereas 22 of 22 (100.0%) achieved SCB and exceeded the MCID for their operative shoulder as determined by the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation. In addition, 21 of 22 (95.5%) met the PASS, whereas 22 of 22 (100%) achieved SCB and exceeded the MCID for their operative shoulder as determined by the pain visual analog scale. Pre- and postoperative range of motion did not vary significantly. In total, 18 of 22 (81.8%) of patients remained on active duty and were able to return to preinjury work and recreation activity levels. In 2 patients (9.09%), the repair did not heal.

Conclusions

Mid-term outcomes in this population of young, active-duty patients undergoing DPSR for type II SLAP tears demonstrate a statistically and clinically significant improvement in patient-reported outcomes and an overall return to active-duty rate of 81.8%.

Level of Evidence

Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Biceps Tenodesis Demonstrates Lower Reoperation Rates Compared to SLAP Repair for Treatment of SLAP Tears in a Large Cross-Sectional Population

PURPOSE

To use a contemporary cross-sectional data set to evaluate trends in surgical treatment for superior labrum anterior and posterior (SLAP) tears and compare surgical outcomes with respect to 2-year revision surgery rates following index SLAP repair versus biceps tenodesis (BT).

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with a SLAP tear between 2010 and 2017 were queried using the Mariner PearlDiver database and stratified by demographic variables and surgical treatment with arthroscopic SLAP repair or arthroscopic/open BT. From 2015 to 2017, Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) and International Classification of Diseases 10th revision (ICD-10) codes were used to track ipsilateral subsequent reoperation within 2-years of index surgery.

RESULTS

Between 2010 to 2017, 16.6% of 377,463 patients diagnosed with a SLAP tear underwent surgery (62.3% SLAP repair vs 37.7% BT). 52.4% of BT procedures were arthroscopic (47.6% open). The frequency of SLAP repairs decreased from 74.0% to 46.2% (61%), while the frequency of BTs increased from 26.0% to 53.8% (202%) during the study period. Patients under age 50 were more likely to undergo SLAP repair, and those undergoing BT were more likely to be over 50 with higher CCI and comorbidity risk. 6.3% of 16,186 patients identified with ICD-10 coding required reoperation within 2-years postoperatively. SLAP repair demonstrated a higher revision rate (6.8%; 95% CI, 6.3-7.4%) than BT (5.7%; 95% CI, 5.2-6.2%; P =.0002), (open 5.8% vs arthroscopic BT 5.5%). Arthroscopic debridement, including biceps tenotomy, revision SLAP repair, and revision BT were the most common subsequent procedures. Patients aged 40 to 49 had the highest rate of revision surgery (7.8%).

CONCLUSIONS

The treatment trend for SLAP tears is changing, with SLAP repair becoming significantly less utilized and BT now becoming the preferred option, especially in patients over 50. Arthroscopic and open BT demonstrated slightly lower risk for reoperation than SLAP repair.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, cross-sectional study.

Midterm Outcomes After Arthroscopic Repair of Type VIII SLAP Lesions in Active Duty Military Patients Younger Than 35 Years

Background

Superior labrum from anterior to posterior (SLAP) lesions represent a significant cause of shoulder pain and disability among active duty members of the US military. However, few data exist regarding the surgical management of type VIII SLAP lesions.

Hypothesis

We hypothesized that arthroscopic repair would decrease pain and increase function at the midterm follow-up and allow for a high rate of maintenance of active duty status.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

Consecutive active duty military patients were identified from January 2011 through June 2015 who underwent arthroscopic repair of type VIII SLAP lesions performed by a single surgeon. Patients were excluded if they underwent glenoid microfracture, other capsulolabral repair, or rotator cuff repair. Outcome measures were completed by patients within 1 week before surgery and at latest follow-up: pain visual analog scale, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons shoulder score, and Rowe instability score.

Results

A total of 30 patients met the inclusion criteria for the study. The mean ± SD follow-up was 96.60 ± 10.91 months. At final follow-up, the mean visual analog scale score improved from 8.17 ± 1.6 to 1.63 ± 1.90 (P < .0001), the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score from 41.65 ± 16.78 to 87.63 ± 13.02 (P < .0001), the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score from 36.47 ± 10.26 to 88.07 ± 13.94 (P < .0001), and the Rowe score from 35.33 ± 6.56 to 90.00 ± 14.68 (P < .0001). Three patients reported postoperative complications, and 1 progressed to further surgery. Overall, 90% of patients remained on active duty military service and were able to return to preinjury levels of work and recreational activity. The failure rate, defined as persistent instability or activity-limiting pain, was 10%.

Conclusion

The results of this study demonstrated favorable outcomes for the majority of patients after arthroscopic repair of type VIII SLAP lesions at midterm follow-up, supporting repair as a viable treatment option for type VIII SLAP tears in this patient population.

Extremity War Injury Symposium XV: Sports and Readiness Symposium Summary

Despite the recent decrease in high tempo combat operations, threats to the medical readiness of Service Members remain a persistent issue. In fact, recent research efforts have demonstrated that musculoskeletal disease nonbattle injury represents perhaps the most immediate threat to the medical readiness of Service Members over the past several years. Innovations in a number of therapeutic options, particularly orthobiologics, have shown substantial promise in accelerating recovery and returning tactical athletes to full, unrestricted duties. Posttraumatic osteoarthritis remains a vexing topic but at the same time an intersectional opportunity for a multidisciplinary approach to better understand its pathogenesis, limit its prevalence, and mitigate the functional consequences of its sequalae. The expansion of a clinical infrastructure capable of the prospective collection of Service Members' functional outcomes across military treatment facilities promises to sharpen clinicians' understanding of both the impact of novel treatments for common injuries and the success of efforts to prevent recurrence (Military Orthopaedics Tracking Injury Network, Bethesda, MD). However, policy makers and stakeholders will increasingly find themselves in an environment of increasingly limited resources, which will necessitate creative strategies to maintain the lethality of a fit, fighting force.

Biceps Tenodesis as an Attractive Alternative to Superior Labral Anterior-Posterior (SLAP) Repair for Type II SLAP Lesions in Active-Duty Military Patients Younger Than 35 Years

BACKGROUND

Biceps tenodesis has been suggested as a superior surgical technique compared with isolated labral repair for superior labral anterior-posterior (SLAP) tears in patients older than 35 years. The superiority of this procedure in younger patients, however, is yet to be determined.

PURPOSE

To compare the outcomes of arthroscopic SLAP repair with those of arthroscopic-assisted subpectoral biceps tenodesis for type II SLAP tears in active-duty military patients younger than 35 years.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

Preoperative and postoperative evaluations with a minimum 5-year follow-up including the visual analog scale (VAS), the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) shoulder score were administered, and scores were compared between 2 groups of patients younger than 35 years. One group included 25 patients who underwent SLAP repair, and the second group included 23 patients who underwent arthroscopic-assisted subpectoral biceps tenodesis.

RESULTS

The preoperative patient age (P = .3639), forward flexion (P = .8214), external rotation (P = .5134), VAS pain score (P = .4487), SANE score (P = .6614), and ASES score (P = .6519) did not vary significantly between the 2 study groups. Both groups demonstrated statistically significant increases in function as measured by the ASES and SANE and decreases in pain as measured by the VAS at a minimum of 5 years postoperatively. Also at a minimum of 5 years postoperatively, patients in the tenodesis group had lower pain (1.3 vs 2.6, respectively; P = .0358) and higher SANE (84.0 vs 63.3, respectively; P = .0001) and ASES (85.7 vs 75.4, respectively; P = .0342) scores compared with those in the repair group. Failure rate was 20.0% in the repair group versus 0.0% in the tenodesis group (P = .0234).

CONCLUSION

Active-duty military patients younger than 35 years with type II SLAP tears had more predictable improvement in pain, better functional outcomes, and lower failure rates after biceps tenodesis compared with SLAP repair for type II SLAP tears. Overall, the results of this study indicate that arthroscopic- assisted subpectoral biceps tenodesis is superior to arthroscopic SLAP repair for the treatment of type II SLAP tears in military patients younger than 35 years.

Musculoskeletal Injuries Among Females in the Military: A Scoping Review

INTRODUCTION

Musculoskeletal injuries (MSKi) are a common challenge for those in military careers. Compared to their male peers, reports indicate that female military members and recruits are at greater risk of suffering MSKi during training and deployment. The objectives of this study were to identify the types and causes of MSKi among female military personnel and to explore the various risk factors associated with MSKi.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A scoping review was conducted over a 4-month time frame of English language, peer-reviewed studies published from 1946 to 2019. Search strategies for major biomedical databases (e.g., MEDLINE; Embase Classic + Embase; and the following EBM Reviews-Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, Health Technology Assessment, and the NHS Economic Evaluation Database) were developed by a senior medical information specialist and included 2,891 titles/abstracts. Study selection and data collection were designed according to the Population, Concept, and Context framework. Studies were included if the study population provided stratified data for females in a military context.

RESULTS

From a total of 2,287 citations captured from the literature searches, 168 peer-reviewed publications (144 unique studies) were eligible for inclusion. Studies were identified from across 10 countries and published between 1977 and 2019. Study designs were primarily prospective and retrospective cohorts. Most studies assessed both prevalence/incidence and risk factors for MSKi (62.50%), with few studies assessing cause (13.69%). For MSKi of female recruits compared to active female members, the prevalence was higher (19.7%-58.3% vs. 5.5%-56.6%), but the incidence (0.02%-57.7% vs. 13.5%-71.9%) was lower. The incidence of stress fractures was found to be much higher in female recruits than in active members (1.6%-23.9% vs. 2.7%). For anthropometric risk factors, increased body fat was a predictor of MSKi, but not stress fractures. For physiological risk factors for both female military groups, being less physically fit, later menarche, and having no/irregular menses were predictors of MSKi and stress fractures. For biomechanical risk factors, among female recruits, longer tibial length and femoral neck diameter increased the risk of stress fractures, and low foot arch increased risk of an ankle sprain. For female active military members, differences in shoulder rotation and bone strength were associated with risk of MSKi. For biological sex, being female compared to male was associated with an increased risk of MSKi, stress fractures, and general injuries. The consequences of experiencing MSKi for active military included limited duties, time off, and discharge. For recruits, these included missed training days, limited duty days, and release.

CONCLUSIONS

This scoping review provides insight into the current state of the evidence regarding the types and causes of MSKi, as well as the factors that influence MSKi among females in the military. Future research endeavors should focus on randomized controlled trials examining training paradigms to see if women are more susceptible. The data presented in the scoping review could potentially be used to develop training strategies to mitigate some of the identified barriers that negatively impact women from pursuing careers in the military.

Double bucket handle tear of the superior labrum in a young patient presented with shoulder instability treated with arthroscopic debridement: A case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

The two major etiologies of shoulder superior labral tears anterior to posterior (SLAP) are traumatic and degenerative processes. Bucket handle tears of the superior labrum represent one-third of labral lesions. However, in this article, we present a double bucket handle tear which has been reported once in the literature.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

A 25-year-old male presented with complaint of chronic pain in his right shoulder with a remote history of traumatic dislocation. Physical examination revealed a positive apprehension test. Shoulder magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a superior labral tear with a Hill-Sach lesion. Arthroscopy showed a double bucket handle tear of superior labrum and mild biceps tendonitis along with Bankart lesion. The tear was resected and the Bankart lesion was repaired followed by supervised physical therapy. Good clinical outcomes in form of resolution of pain and shoulder instability at six months were obtained.

DISCUSSION

SLAP tears are common shoulder lesion that is reported differently in the literature. Arthroscopic studies had reported the incidence between 3.9%-11.8. The diagnosis of such lesion relies on the clinical presentation and imaging. Knesek et al. classified SLAP lesions based on the integrity of the biceps anchor and the type of labral tear (Knesek et al., 2013). The standard treatment of symptomatic SLAP lesions is Arthroscopic debridement. However, non-operative management was described in the literature.

CONCLUSION

Double bucket handle injuries of the superior labrum are reported in literature once. These lesions can be treated with arthroscopic debridement and Bankart repair and followed by supervised physical therapy.

Cost Comparison of Open and Arthroscopic Treatment Options for SLAP Tears

Purpose

To identify cost drivers of open biceps tenodesis, arthroscopic biceps tenodesis, and arthroscopic SLAP repair in the setting of isolated SLAP tears and to perform a direct cost comparison between the procedures.

Methods

The 2014 State Ambulatory Surgery and Services Databases from 6 US states were used. Cases with Current Procedural Terminology codes 23430 (tenodesis of long tendon of biceps), 29807 (shoulder arthroscopy, repair of SLAP lesion), and 29828 (shoulder arthroscopy, biceps tenodesis) were selected, excluding patients who were >50 years old or had a concomitant rotator cuff repair. Generalized linear models were used to model costs based on surgical and patient variables.

Results

The mean patient age was 41.8 years for open biceps tenodesis, 31.6 for arthroscopic SLAP repair, and 41.3 for arthroscopic biceps tenodesis (P < .001). Open biceps tenodesis had cost reductions of $5,664 over arthroscopic biceps tenodesis (P = .001) and $2,320 over arthroscopic SLAP repair (P = .043). Male sex was associated with $3,798 more in costs (P < .001), presence of ≥1 comorbidities added $1,829 (P = .002), and each minute in the operating room added $37 (P < .001). Operative time for open biceps tenodesis averaged 114 minutes, and both arthroscopic procedures averaged 94 minutes (P < .001). Low-volume facilities were associated with $5,536 higher costs for arthroscopic biceps tenodesis (P = .001).

Conclusion

In patients aged ≤50 years with isolated SLAP tears, open biceps tenodesis provides cost savings over arthroscopic methods of treatment. There was no significant cost difference between arthroscopic SLAP repairs and arthroscopic biceps tenodesis. Given the increased emphasis on cost containment, surgeons should be aware of the procedural costs associated with the treatment of SLAP tears.

Level of Evidence

III, retrospective cohort study.

Trends in the Management of Isolated SLAP Tears in the United States

Background:

The management of superior labrum anterior and posterior (SLAP) tears remains controversial, with surgical treatment options including SLAP repair, debridement, and open or arthroscopic biceps tenodesis (BT), based on patient factors and the type of tear.

Hypothesis:

We hypothesized that SLAP repair has become less frequently performed over time, while BT is more frequently performed, particularly in patients ≥ 40 years.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

A retrospective query was performed using the Humana insurance database from years 2007 to 2016. For the management of a SLAP tear diagnosis (International Classification of Diseases–Ninth Edition [ICD-9] code: 840.7), independent and exclusive cohorts were formed using Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes for debridement (29822, 29823), SLAP repair (29807), open or arthroscopic BT (29828, 23430), and SLAP repair combined with BT (29828 OR 23430 AND 29807).

Results:

Of 46,650 diagnoses of a SLAP tear, there were 3347 patients who underwent operative management for an isolated SLAP tear from 2007 to 2016. There was a linear increase of SLAP tear diagnoses per year (r² = 0.800, P < .001) during this period. Overall, SLAP repair was performed in 1629 patients (48.7%), debridement was performed in 1076 patients (32.1%), BT was performed in 552 patients (16.5%), and combined SLAP repair and BT was performed in 90 patients (2.7%). There was a 69.3% decrease in isolated SLAP repair from 2007 to 2016 (r² = 0.882, P < .001). BT for the diagnosis of an isolated SLAP tear increased by 370.0% over the same period (r² = 0.800, P < .001). SLAP repair had an equivalent percentage of being performed in patients both older and younger than 40 years (P = .218). There was a 1500.0% increase in BT performed in patients older than 40 years during the study period. There were no statistical differences in the postoperative incidence of stiffness, surgical site infections, and reoperations between all surgical treatment groups (P > .05).

Conclusion:

An analysis of a large private-payer database revealed that surgical treatment of isolated SLAP tears in the United States has shifted from 2007 to 2016, with an increase in the frequency of BT and a decline in the frequency of SLAP repair, particularly in patients older than 40 years.

An Age and Activity Algorithm for Treatment of Type II SLAP Tears

Background

Type II SLAP tears predominantly occur in males between their third and fifth decades of life. The mechanism of injury is often repeated overheard activity but can also occur due to direct compression loads and traction injuries. The treatment options have changed over the years and include non-operative therapy, direct labral-biceps complex repair, and labral debridement with biceps tenodesis or tenotomy.

Objective

To review the existing literature on the management of Type II SLAP tears and provide clinical recommendations based on patient age and activity level.

Methods

A review of the existing literature through October 2017 investigating the management of Type II SLAP tears was performed. Emphasis was placed on distinguishing the outcomes based on age and activity level to provide an appropriate treatment algorithm.

Results

Patients with Type II SLAP tears should first be trialed with non-operative management and many patients will have a successful result with ability to return to their respective sports or activities. Surgical management should be considered if non-operative management does not provide symptomatic relief. Young, athletic, or high-demand patients should be treated with a SLAP repair while biceps tenodesis should be considered for older or worker's compensation patients. Patients undergoing revision surgery for a failed SLAP repair should be managed with biceps tenodesis.

Conclusion

Type II SLAP tears remain a difficult pathology to manage clinically, but the treatment indications are narrowing. The age and activity algorithm described in this review provides an effective method of managing this complex clinical condition.

Biceps Tenodesis and Intra-articular Decompression for Treatment of Superior Labral Tear from Anterior to Posterior and Associated Paralabral Cyst in Active Duty Military

Background

To examine the outcomes of combined biceps tenodesis and indirect, intra-articular arthroscopic paralabral cyst decompression for the treatment of active duty military patients with superior labral from anterior to posterior tears and associated paralabral cysts.

Methods

Retrospective chart review of all active duty patients at our institution from 2011 to 2014 with superior labral from anterior to posterior tears and associated paralabral cysts at the spinoglenoid notch treated with biceps tenodesis and indirect arthroscopic cyst decompression. Patient charts were examined for pre- and post-operative parameters including strength, range of motion, visual analog scale pain score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon Score, and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation Score.

Results

Seven patients met study criteria. All patients presented with chronic shoulder pain and decreased external rotation strength, and three patients had clinically apparent muscular atrophy. Pre- and post-operative assessment showed external rotation strength increased from a median of 4 (range 4-4) to 5 (range 4-5; p-value = 0.014), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation increased from a median of 50 (range 0-70) to 75 (range 30-95; p-value = 0.031), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon increased from a median of 46.0 (range 32.0-58.0) to 66.5 (range 58.0-98.0; p-value = 0.068), and visual analog scale pain score decreased from a median of 3 (range 1-8) to 0 (range 0-5; p-value = 0.017). Median follow-up was 66 wk (range 36-138 wk). The change was statistically significant (p <0.05) for external rotation strength, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, and VAS reduction. Post-operatively, all patients returned to full duty at a median of 20 wk (range 12-36 wk).

Conclusion

The use of biceps tenodesis in conjunction with indirect, intra-articular arthroscopic paralabral cyst decompression is an effective technique in an active patient population with superior labral from anterior to posterior tear with associated paralabral cyst.

Clinical Assessment of Physical Examination Maneuvers for Superior Labral Anterior to Posterior Lesions

Purpose  Shoulder pain and disability pose a diagnostic challenge owing to the numerous etiologies and the potential for multiple disorders to exist simultaneously. The evidence to support the use of clinical tests for superior labral anterior to posterior complex (SLAP) is weak or absent. The purpose of this study is to determine the diagnostic validity of physical examination maneuvers for SLAP lesions by performing a methodologically rigorous, clinically applicable study.

Methods  We recruited consecutive new shoulder patients reporting pain and/or disability. The physician took a history and indicated their certainty about each possible diagnosis (“certain the diagnosis is absent/present,” or “uncertain requires further testing”). The clinician performed the physical tests for diagnoses where uncertainty remained. Magnetic resonance imaging arthrogram and arthroscopic examination were the gold standards. We calculated sensitivity, specificity, and likelihood ratios (LRs) and investigated whether combinations of the top tests provided stronger predictions.

Results  Ninety-three patients underwent physical examination for SLAP lesions. When using the presence of a SLAP lesion (Types I–V) as disease positive, none of the tests was sensitive (10.3–33.3) although they were moderately specific (61.3–92.6). When disease positive was defined as repaired SLAP lesion (including biceps tenodesis or tenotomy), the sensitivity (10.5–38.7) and specificity (70.6–93.8) of tests improved although not by a substantial amount. None of the tests was found to be clinically useful for predicting repairable SLAP lesions with all LRs close to one. The compression rotation test had the best LR for both definitions of disease (SLAP tear present = 1.8 and SLAP repaired = 1.67). There was no optimal combination of tests for diagnosing repairable SLAP lesions, with at least two tests positive providing the best combination of measurement properties (sensitivity 46.1% and specificity 64.7%).

Conclusion  Our study demonstrates that the physical examination tests for SLAP lesions are poor diagnostic indicators of disease. Performing a combination of tests will likely help, although the magnitude of the improvement is minimal. These authors caution clinicians placing confidence in the physical examination tests for SLAP lesions rather we suggest that clinicians rely on diagnostic imaging to confirm this diagnosis.

The Rising Incidence of Degenerative and Posttraumatic Osteoarthritis of the Knee in the United States Military

BACKGROUND

This investigation sought to quantify incidence rates (IRs) and risk factors for primary and secondary (ie, posttraumatic) osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee in an active military population.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of United States military active duty servicemembers with first-time diagnosis of primary (International Classification of Disease, 9th Edition code: 715.16) and secondary (International Classification of Disease, 9th Edition code: 715.26) OA of the knee between 2005 and 2014 using the Defense Medical Epidemiology Database. IRs and 95% CIs were expressed per 1000 person-years, with stratified subgroup analysis adjusted for sex, age, race, military rank, and branch of military service. Relative risk factors were evaluated using IR ratios and multiple regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 21,318 cases of OA of the knee were identified among an at-risk population of 13,820,906 person-years for an overall IR of 1.54 per 1000 person-years, including 19,504 cases of primary (IR: 1.41) and 1814 cases of secondary OA (IR: 0.13). The IRs of both primary and secondary OA increased significantly from 2005 to 2014. Increasing age (P < .0001); black race (P < .001); senior military rank (P < .0001); and Army, Marines, and Air Force services (P < .0001) were significantly associated with an increased risk for knee OA.

CONCLUSION

This study is the first large-scale report of knee OA in a young athletic population. An increasing incidence and several risk factors for knee OA were identified, indicating a need for better preventative strategies and forecasting the increased anticipated demands for knee arthroplasty among US military servicemembers.

SLAP Repairs With Combined Procedures Have Lower Failure Rate Than Isolated Repairs in a Military Population: Surgical Outcomes With Minimum 2-Year Follow-up

BACKGROUND

Injuries to the superior glenoid labrum represent a significant cause of shoulder pain among active patients. The physical requirements of military service may contribute to an increased risk of injury. Limited data are available regarding the success of superior labral anterior posterior (SLAP) repairs in an active military population.

PURPOSE

To quantify the rate of clinical failure and surgical revision after isolated and combined SLAP repair.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

All consecutive active-duty servicemembers undergoing arthroscopic repair of type II SLAP lesions at a single institution between 2006 and 2012 were identified. Patients with less than 2-year clinical follow-up and nonmilitary status were excluded. Demographic variables, surgical variables, and occupational outcomes were extracted from electronic medical records and confirmed with the US Army Physical Disability Agency database. Failure was defined as subsequent revision surgery or medical discharge with persistent shoulder complaints.

RESULTS

A total of 192 patients with SLAP repair were identified with a mean follow-up of 50.0 months (SD, 17.0 months). Isolated SLAP repair occurred in 31.3% (n = 60) versus 68.8% (n = 132) with concomitant procedures. At final follow-up, 37.0% (n = 71) of patients reported some subjective activity-related shoulder pain. Postoperative return to duty occurred in 79.6% (n = 153), and only 20.3% (n = 39) were discharged with continuing shoulder disability. The combined rotator cuff repair (96%; P = .023) and anteroinferior labral repair group (88%; P = .056) had a higher rate of functional return than isolated SLAP repair (70%). Thirty-one (16.1%) patients were classified as surgical failure and required revision. Of these, the majority of patients undergoing biceps tenodesis (76%) returned to active duty, as compared with revision SLAP repair (17%). Lower demand occupation and the presence of combined shoulder injuries (P = .011 and .016, respectively) were significantly associated with a lower risk of medical discharge and revision surgery, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Favorable outcomes can be anticipated in the majority of military servicemembers after arthroscopic SLAP repair, particularly with combined shoulder injuries. Revision surgery occurred in 16% of patients after primary SLAP repair.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Isolated repair of unstable SLAP lesions and/or increased upper extremity demands are associated with higher failure rates in this population.

The burden and management of sports-related musculoskeletal injuries and conditions within the US military

Military service members comprise a young and physically active population who are at increased risk for musculoskeletal injuries and conditions related to sports and physical training. Even during times of war, musculoskeletal injuries and conditions related to sports and physical training, not associated with combat, are the leading cause of medical evacuation from theater. As a result, these injuries significantly compromise military readiness, and they can lead to an increased risk for reinjury and long-term disability among military service members. Regardless of the mechanism of injury, the large volume and types of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions that affect soldiers are similar to those that are commonly seen and treated in sports medicine clinics and practices. Recently, the US Marine Corps, Navy, and Army have recognized the value of the sports medicine model of care to improve the access, efficiency, and effectiveness of care for solders who experience musculoskeletal injuries related to sports and training. A highly skilled sports medicine team of providers and allied health care professionals (eg, athletic trainers, physical therapists), with expertise in the prevention, assessment, diagnosis, and management of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions, will continue to be an integral cog in the effective management of these types of injuries into the future, as the sports medicine model continues to expand across the military health system.