Arthroscopic treatment of the arthrofibrotic knee

Knee Arthrofibrosis following Tibial Plateau Fracture Treated with Arthroscopic Lysis of Adhesions with Manipulation

Posttraumatic arthrofibrosis is a common problem encountered in the orthopaedic setting for which there is no agreement on the optimal management strategy. The literature does not optimally describe the efficacy of arthroscopic lysis of adhesions for arthrofibrosis following tibial plateau fracture. The purpose of this study is to quantify the efficacy of arthroscopic lysis of adhesions with manipulation for the treatment of arthrofibrosis of the knee in patients who previously underwent surgical management of tibial plateau fracture. All patients who underwent arthroscopic lysis of adhesions from a single surgeon since 1999 were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical outcomes were evaluated by flexion, extension, and range of motion (ROM) preoperatively, intraoperatively, and postoperatively at intervals of 1, 4, 8, and 12 weeks, and any additional long-term follow-up. A total of 28 patients who had developed arthrofibrosis following surgical management of a tibial plateau fracture and failed nonsurgical management of knee stiffness were included in this study. There were significant improvements in total ROM following intervention at all time points compared with preoperative values (p < 0.001), with mean improvements of 59.3 degrees intraoperatively, 32.9 degrees (1 week), 37.1 degrees (4 weeks), 41.5 degrees (8 weeks), and 47.6 degrees (12 weeks). There were significant improvements in degrees of knee flexion following intervention at all time points compared with preoperative values (p < 0.001), with mean improvements of 50.8 degrees intraoperatively, 27.3 degrees (1 week), 36.0 degrees (4 weeks), 38.3 degrees (8 weeks), and 43.9 degrees (12 weeks). There were significant increases in degrees of knee extension intraoperatively (8.5 degrees) and at 1 week postoperatively (5.9 degrees) compared with preoperative values (p <0.01). At 12 weeks postoperatively, those who had previously undergone external fixation had significantly greater increases in ROM (p = 0.048). Arthroscopic lysis of adhesions for knee arthrofibrosis following surgical management of tibial plateau fracture significantly improves knee ROM.

Arthrofibrosis Nightmares: Prevention and Management Strategies

Arthrofibrosis (AF) is an exaggerated immune response to a proinflammatory insult leading to pathologic periarticular fibrosis and symptomatic joint stiffness. The knee, elbow, and shoulder are particularly susceptible to AF, often in the setting of trauma, surgery, or adhesive capsulitis. Prevention through early physiotherapeutic interventions and anti-inflammatory medications remain fundamental to avoiding motion loss. Reliable nonoperative modalities exist and outcomes are improved when etiology, joint involved, and level of dysfunction are considered in the clinical decision making process. Surgical procedures should be reserved for cases recalcitrant to nonoperative measures. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the current understanding of AF pathophysiology, identify common risk factors, describe prevention strategies, and outline both nonoperative and surgical treatment options. This manuscript will focus specifically on sterile AF of the knee, elbow, and shoulder.

Homoharringtonine inhibits fibroblasts proliferation, extracellular matrix production and reduces surgery-induced knee arthrofibrosis via PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway-mediated apoptosis

Background

The prevention of surgery-induced intraarticular fibrosis remains a challenge following orthopedic surgery. Homoharringtonine (HHT) has been reported to have positive effects in preventing various kinds of fibrosis. However, little is known regarding its effect as well as the potential mechanism of HHT in preventing surgery-induced intraarticular fibrosis.

Methods

Various concentrations of HHTs were locally applied in vivo to reduce knee intraarticular fibrosis in rabbits. Histological macroscopic assessments such as hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, Masson’s trichrome staining, and Picric-sirius red polarized light were used to evaluate the effect of HHT in reducing intraarticular fibrosis. CCK-8, cell cycle assay, and EdU incorporation assay were used in vitro to detect HHT’s effect on inhibiting fibroblast viability and proliferation. The effect of HHT on fibroblast differentiation, extracellular matrix production, and apoptosis were evaluated by western blot, flow cytometry, immunofluorescent staining, and TUNEL analysis. Moreover, the expressions of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway were detected.

Results

The results demonstrated that HHT could reduce the formation of intraarticular fibrosis. HHT was also found to induce fibroblast apoptotic cell death in a dose- and time-dependent manner in vitro. Moreover, HHT could effectively inhibit the production of the extracellular matrix secreted by fibroblasts and inhibited the expression of p-PI3K, p-AKT, and p-mTOR in a dose-dependent manner. After treating with insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), an activator of the PI3K/AKT axis, the expressions of pro-apoptosis-related proteins were decreased, and the fibroblast apoptosis rate was also inhibited.

Conclusions

In conclusion, this study demonstrated that HHT could reduce the formation of intraarticular fibrosis through the inhibition of fibroblast proliferation, extracellular matrix production, and the induction of fibroblast apoptotic cell death. Furthermore, its potential mechanism may be through the suppression of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway.

Kinematic versus mechanically aligned total knee arthroplasty: no difference in frequency of arthroscopic lysis of adhesions for arthrofibrosis

Arthrofibrosis is a condition that can cause excessive scar tissue formation, leading to painful restriction of joint motion. Following total knee arthroplasty (TKA), significant arthrofibrosis can result in permanent deficits in range of motion (ROM) if not treated. Although arthroscopic lysis of adhesions (ALOA) reliably improves post-TKA ROM if performed in a timely fashion, it exposes patients to additional anesthesia, heightens the risk of infection, and increases overall medical expenses. Kinematically aligned TKA has emerged as an alternative method to mechanically aligned, basing bony cuts off of the patient's pre-arthritic anatomy while limiting need for soft tissue and ligamentous releases. This study aimed to determine whether there is a difference in the frequency of post-TKA arthrofibrosis requiring ALOA between kinematic and mechanically aligned TKA. Between 2012 and 2019, a retrospective analysis was conducted based on a single surgeon's experience. Two cohorts were made based on alignment technique. Postoperatively, patients were diagnosed with arthrofibrosis and indicated for ALOA if they had functional pain with < 90 degrees of terminal flexion at 6 weeks postoperatively despite aggressive physical therapy. Frequency of ALOA was recorded for each cohort and was regressed using independent samples t-test. The results showed no significant difference between the mechanical and kinematic cohorts for frequency of ALOA following TKA (13.2% vs. 7.3%; p = 0.2659). However, the kinematic cohort demonstrated significantly greater post-ALOA ROM compared to the mechanical group (129° vs. 113°; p = 0.0097). Future higher-powered, prospective studies are needed to clarify whether a significant difference in rates of MUA/ALOA exists between the two alignment techniques.

Etiopathology and Management of Stiff Knees: A Current Concept Review

BACKGROUND

Knee stiffness after trauma, fracture fixation, arthroscopic surgery, infection, and knee arthroplasty is a known complication, which is challenging to manage and causes significant disability to the patients.

METHODS

We did a comprehensive search on the stiff knees, in the last week of May 2020, from the search engines of PubMed, SCOPUS, Google Scholar, and Research Gates using the appropriate keywords.

RESULTS

We found two types of articles related to knees stiffness: (a) following trauma, internal and external fixation of fractures and arthroscopic surgery, and (b) following total knee arthroplasty. Arthroscopic surgery was found to be a favored mode of management of stiff knees in both of the above groups. The Manipulation under Anesthesia (MUA) was also found effective if done carefully and in the early course of the stiffness.

CONCLUSION

Knee stiffness due to any cause is a trouble proposition to both patients and treating surgeons. Various methods of management have been described to deal with knee stiffness. Amongst the operative treatment, MUA and arthroscopic surgery were found to be the most effective. Arthroscopic surgery offers a good option of release stiff knees in the majority of cases, and it is most valuable and effective if done earlier in the course of the stiffness (preferably between 3 and 6 months).

Pathological mechanisms and therapeutic outlooks for arthrofibrosis

Arthrofibrosis is a fibrotic joint disorder that begins with an inflammatory reaction to insults such as injury, surgery and infection. Excessive extracellular matrix and adhesions contract pouches, bursae and tendons, cause pain and prevent a normal range of joint motion, with devastating consequences for patient quality of life. Arthrofibrosis affects people of all ages, with published rates varying. The risk factors and best management strategies are largely unknown due to a poor understanding of the pathology and lack of diagnostic biomarkers. However, current research into the pathogenesis of fibrosis in organs now informs the understanding of arthrofibrosis. The process begins when stress signals stimulate immune cells. The resulting cascade of cytokines and mediators drives fibroblasts to differentiate into myofibroblasts, which secrete fibrillar collagens and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). Positive feedback networks then dysregulate processes that normally terminate healing processes. We propose two subtypes of arthrofibrosis occur: active arthrofibrosis and residual arthrofibrosis. In the latter the fibrogenic processes have resolved but the joint remains stiff. The best therapeutic approach for each subtype may differ significantly. Treatment typically involves surgery, however, a pharmacological approach to correct dysregulated cell signalling could be more effective. Recent research shows that myofibroblasts are capable of reversing differentiation, and understanding the mechanisms of pathogenesis and resolution will be essential for the development of cell-based treatments. Therapies with significant promise are currently available, with more in development, including those that inhibit TGF-β signalling and epigenetic modifications. This review focuses on pathogenesis of sterile arthrofibrosis and therapeutic treatments.

The effect of anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic agents on fibroblasts obtained from arthrofibrotic tissue: An in vitro and in vivo study

Objectives

The aims of this study were to determine whether the administration of anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic agents affect the proliferation, viability, and expression of markers involved in the fibrotic development of the fibroblasts obtained from arthrofibrotic tissue in vitro, and to evaluate the effect of the agents on arthrofibrosis prevention in vivo.

Methods

Dexamethasone, diclofenac, and decorin, in different concentrations, were employed to treat fibroblasts from arthrofibrotic tissue (AFib). Cell proliferation was measured by DNA quantitation, and viability was analyzed by Live/Dead staining. The levels of procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide (PINP) and procollagen type III N-terminal propeptide (PIIINP) were evaluated with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. In addition, the expressions of fibrotic markers were detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Fibroblasts isolated from healthy tissue (Fib) served as control. Further, a rabbit model of joint contracture was used to evaluate the antifibrotic effect of the three different agents.

Results

Dexamethasone maintained the viability and promoted the proliferation of AFib. Diclofenac decreased the viability and inhibited the cell proliferation during the first week of cultivation. However, decorin inhibited AFib proliferation and downregulated the expressions of fibrotic markers. Additionally, decorin could improve the flexion contracture angle and inhibit the deposition of interstitial matrix components in the rabbit joint model.

Conclusion

Decorin decreased the expression of myofibroblast markers in AFib, inhibited the proliferation of AFib, and prevented the initial procedure of arthrofibrosis in vivo, suggesting that decorin could be a promising treatment to inhibit the development of arthrofibrosis.Cite this article: X. Tang, S. Teng, M. Petri, C. Krettek, C. Liu, M. Jagodzinski. The effect of anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic agents on fibroblasts obtained from arthrofibrotic tissue: An in vitro and in vivo study. Bone Joint Res 2018;7:213-222. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.73.BJR-2017-0219.R2.

Clinical Outcomes After Arthroscopic Release of Patellofemoral Arthrofibrosis in Patients With Prior Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to review our results of arthroscopic release in patients diagnosed with refractory patellofemoral arthrofibrosis (PFA) after having undergone anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.

METHODS

From 2006 to 2016, all patients who underwent arthroscopic release for refractory PFA after ACL reconstruction were reviewed retrospectively. All patients then completed surveys containing the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) and were asked 2 subjective questions. Patients included in the study exhibited at least one finding of PFA and failed conservative treatment for at least 3 months. Included patients also had a minimum of 12 months of postoperative follow-up after PFA release. Patients who underwent any other concomitant surgery in the same operative setting as arthroscopic release for PFA were excluded from the study.

RESULTS

Thirty-two patients were included in the study. The mean age was 32.8 years (range, 19-58 years) with an average follow-up of 43.6 months (range, 16-98 months). There was a statistically significant increase preoperatively to postoperatively in the IKDC score from 49.6 to 69.4 (P < .00001), and 16 of 32 patients (50%) achieved a minimal clinically important difference (MCID). WOMAC scores also significantly increased from 74 to 85.3 (P < .00001), with 15 of 32 patients (47%) achieving MCID. Thirty-one patients (97%) reported that the procedure helped, and 25 patients (78%) said they would have the procedure again.

CONCLUSIONS

Arthroscopic release, consisting of an extended lateral release, debridement of the notch/fat pad, and manual manipulation of the patella, results in significant increases in validated outcome measures and is well tolerated by patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, case series.

Dynamic Splinting in Children and Adolescents With Stiffness After Knee Surgery

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the indications and outcomes of dynamic splinting (DS) of the arthrofibrotic knee in the pediatric population.

METHODS

Seventy-four patients (41 males, 33 females) with postoperative arthrofibrosis treated with DS after an index knee surgery were reviewed. Median age was 13 years (range, 4 to 18 y), and median follow-up was 17 months (interquartile range, 10 to 28 mo). Demographics, index surgery procedure, preoperative and postoperative knee range of motion (ROM) measurements, treatment length and subsequent need for manipulation under anesthesia (MUA), and surgical lysis of adhesions (LOA) were evaluated. A ROM deficit was defined as lack of extension ≥10 degrees or lack of flexion <130 degrees. Successful improvement of ROM was defined as an increase of ≥10 degrees in flexion, extension, or both. There were 23 patients with flexion deficit only, 17 with extension deficit only, and 34 with combined flexion and extension deficits. Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to assess median improvement in ROM. Patients were classified into 4 surgical groups: anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction without meniscal repair (n=19), ACL reconstruction with meniscal repair (n=12), tibial spine fracture repair (n=21), and other (n=22). Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors of failure of DS requiring MUA and LOA.

RESULTS

A total of 57 patients with flexion deficits showed median improvement of 30 degrees in flexion (95% confidence interval, 0-90 degrees; P<0.001), and 51 patients with extension deficits showed median improvement of 7 degrees in extension (95% confidence interval, 0-60 degrees; P<0.001). DS was associated with ROM improvement in 84% and avoided the need for surgery in 58% of all 74 patients included in the study. Multivariate analysis of the ACL with meniscus repair subgroup revealed that each 1-month delay in DS treatment was associated with a 5-fold increased risk of undergoing a LOA (P=0.007). Thirty-six (63%) patients with flexion deficit avoided need for surgery, whereas 26 (51%) patients with extension deficits avoided surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that DS is an effective method to increase knee ROM and reduce the need for subsequent MUA/LOA in the pediatric and adolescent patient with arthrofibrosis after an index knee surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV-retrospective case series.

Presentation and management of arthrofibrosis of the knee: A case report

STUDY DESIGN

Case report.

BACKGROUND

Arthrofibrosis is a debilitating condition that results in pain, decreased range of motion, and decreased function. Although surgical management of arthrofibrosis has been well described in the literature, rehabilitation of the arthrofibrotic knee is less well described.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 28-year-old female presented with swelling, pain, and decreased strength, range of motion, patellar mobility, and function following an exploratory arthroscopy of her left knee. After failed conservative management, the patient underwent two additional surgeries to remove scar tissue. Following each surgery, the emphasis was on decreasing inflammation and maintaining patellar mobility while increasing joint range of motion and strength. Therapy progression was determined by the presence or absence of inflammatory signs. The second scar tissue removal surgery resulted in a femoral neuropathy that further complicated the rehabilitation process.

OUTCOMES

At 3-year follow-up, the patient continued to present with decreased range of motion and strength compared to the uninvolved limb, but had returned to a modified running program and reported pain no longer limited her ability to participate in activities of daily living.

DISCUSSION

This case report highlights the importance of recognizing that arthrofibrosis may result following a minor knee surgery and with minimal range of motion loss. Additional complications also may result during arthrofibrosis treatment. Progressing rehabilitation based on the inflammatory response may decrease the likelihood of additional scar tissue formation and potentially improve the outcome for the patient.

Arthroscopic Lysis of Adhesions for Treatment of Post-traumatic Arthrofibrosis of the Knee Joint

Normal knee range of motion varies slightly between individuals and measures approximately 0° to -5° of extension to 140° of flexion. A full arc of motion is required for normal gait and knee function. Loss of normal joint range of motion may occur after a traumatic knee injury and may contribute to increased pain, lower functional outcome scores, and decreased patient satisfaction. Although multiple factors may contribute to the development of motion loss, the occurrence of intra-articular scar tissue adhesions, or post-traumatic arthrofibrosis, may limit the patient's knee motion in the early postoperative period. Once motion loss has been identified, it can be a challenging complication to manage. Arthroscopic lysis of adhesions with manipulation under anesthesia is a reliable surgical technique that can improve range of motion in patients with knee stiffness due to post-traumatic arthrofibrosis.

Novel Use of Botulinum Toxin to Ameliorate Arthrofibrosis: An Experimental Study in Rabbits

This study aimed to investigate the effects of intra-articular botulinum toxin in preventing arthrofibrosis. Arthrofibrosis was induced in both stifle joints of 20 rabbits by transecting the anterior cruciate ligament under intramuscular anesthesia with ketamine and xylazine. Intra-articular toxin at a dose of 0.6 ml (50 unit) and physiologic saline solution (0.6 ml) were injected into the right and left stifle joints, respectively, 3 times with a 1-week interval between each injection. The rabbits were euthanized in the 12th week via high dose anesthesia to remove the stifle joint. The severity of adhesions was assessed, applying a universal scoring system. Also the stifle joints were histologically evaluated for fibrosis. With regards to severity of adhesion a significant reduction in the adhesion score was observed in the toxin-treated group in comparison to untreated controls with mean ± SE values of 0.2 ± 0.1 and 2.4 ± 0.2, respectively ( p < 0.01). The histological evaluation showed no significant fibroblast in the toxin-treated group versus dense fibers with mature fibroblasts in the control group. Our results suggest that botulinum toxin demonstrated efficacy in preventing adhesion after knee surgery and all the parameters monitored showed consistent statistically significant improvement.

International consensus on the definition and classification of fibrosis of the knee joint

AIMS

The aim of this consensus was to develop a definition of post-operative fibrosis of the knee.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

An international panel of experts took part in a formal consensus process composed of a discussion phase and three Delphi rounds.

RESULTS

Post-operative fibrosis of the knee was defined as a limited range of movement (ROM) in flexion and/or extension, that is not attributable to an osseous or prosthetic block to movement from malaligned, malpositioned or incorrectly sized components, metal hardware, ligament reconstruction, infection (septic arthritis), pain, chronic regional pain syndrome (CRPS) or other specific causes, but due to soft-tissue fibrosis that was not present pre-operatively. Limitation of movement was graded as mild, moderate or severe according to the range of flexion (90° to 100°, 70° to 89°, < 70°) or extension deficit (5° to 10°, 11° to 20°, > 20°). Recommended investigations to support the diagnosis and a strategy for its management were also agreed.

CONCLUSION

The development of standardised, accepted criteria for the diagnosis, classification and grading of the severity of post-operative fibrosis of the knee will facilitate the identification of patients for inclusion in clinical trials, the development of clinical guidelines, and eventually help to inform the management of this difficult condition. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:1479-88.

Running Injuries: The Infrapatellar Fat Pad and Plica Injuries

When considering knee pain in runners, clinicians differentiate sources of symptoms and determine their cause. Knee problems arise when a runner increases the amount/frequency of the loading through the lower limb. The way the loading is distributed through the knee determines which tissues are abnormally loaded. Knee problems cannot be considered in isolation, requiring a thorough investigation of static and dynamic lower limb mechanics, and footwear and surfaces. This article examines potential sources of knee pain and explores the role of the infrapatellar fat pad and synovial plica in the mechanics of the knee and its involvement in knee symptoms.

Right-Left Differences in Knee Extension Stiffness for the Normal Rat Knee: In Vitro Measurements Using a New Testing Apparatus

Knee stiffness following joint injury or immobilization is a common clinical problem, and the rat has been used as a model for studies related to joint stiffness and limitation of motion. Knee stiffness measurements have been reported for the anesthetized rat, but it is difficult to separate the contributions of muscular and ligamentous restraints to the recorded values. in vitro testing of isolated rat knees devoid of musculature allows measurement of joint structural properties alone. In order to measure the effects of therapeutic or surgical interventions designed to alter joint stiffness, the opposite extremity is often used as a control. However, right-left stiffness differences for the normal rat knee have not been reported in the literature. If stiffness changes observed for a treatment group are within the normal right-left variation, validity of the results could be questioned. The objectives of this study were to utilize a new testing apparatus to measure right-left stiffness differences during knee extension in a population of normal rat knees and to document repeatability of the stiffness measurements on successive testing days. Moment versus rotation curves were recorded for 15 right-left pairs of normal rat knees on three consecutive days, with overnight specimen storage in a refrigerator. Each knee was subjected to ten loading-unloading cycles, with the last loading curve used for analysis. Angular rotation (AR), defined here as the change in flexion-extension angle from a specified applied joint moment, is commonly used as a measure of overall joint stiffness. For these tests, ARs were measured from the recorded test curves with a maximum applied extension moment of 100 g cm. Mean rotations for testing days 2 and 3 were 0.81-1.25 deg lower (p < 0.001) than for day 1, but were not significantly different from each other. For each testing day, mean rotations for right knees were 1.12-1.30 deg greater (p < 0.001) than left knees. These right-left stiffness differences should be considered when interpreting the results of knee treatment studies designed to alter knee stiffness when using the opposite extremity as a control.

Post-traumatic knee stiffness: surgical techniques

Post-traumatic knee stiffness and loss of range of motion is a common complication of injuries to the knee area. The causes of post-traumatic knee stiffness can be divided into flexion contractures, extension contractures, and combined contractures. Post-traumatic stiffness can be due to the presence of dense intra-articular adhesions and/or fibrotic transformation of peri-articular structures. Various open and arthroscopic surgical treatments are possible. A precise diagnosis and understanding of the pathology is mandatory prior to any surgical treatment. Failure is imminent if all pathologies are not addressed correctly. From a general point of view, a flexion contracture is due to posterior adhesions and/or anterior impingement. On the other hand, extension contractures are due to anterior adhesions and/or posterior impingement. This overview will describe the different modern surgical techniques for treating post-traumatic knee stiffness. Any bony impingements must be treated before soft tissue release is performed. Intra-articular stiff knees with a loss of flexion can be treated by an anterior arthroscopic arthrolysis. Extra-articular pathology causing a flexion contracture can be treated by open or endoscopic quadriceps release. Extension contractures can be treated by arthroscopic or open posterior arthrolysis. Postoperative care (analgesia, rehabilitation) is essential to maintaining the range of motion obtained intra-operatively.

The optimal concentration of topical hydroxycamptothecin in preventing intraarticular scar adhesion

10-Hydroxycamptothecin could reduce intraarticular adhesion by inhibiting fibroblasts proliferation after knee surgery. However, the ideal concentration of hydroxycamptothecin have not been defined. This study was tried to verify the optimal concentration of 10-hydroxycamptothecin in preventing knee intraarticular adhesion. Sixty rabbits were randomly divided into five groups. Approximately 10 mm × 10 mm of the cortical bone was removed from both sides of the femoral condyle and the underneath cancellous bone was exposed. Various concentrations of hydroxycamptothecin (0.1 mg/ml, 0.5 mg/ml, 1.0 mg/ml, 2.0 mg/ml) or saline were applied to the decorticated areas for 10 minutes. After four weeks, the degree of inraarticular adhesion was assessed by macroscopic evaluation, biochemical analysis of hydroxyproline content and histological evaluation. The results demonstrated that the extent of knee inraarticular adhesion in 1.0 mg/ml group and 2.0 mg/ml hydroxycamptothecin group were significantly lower than those of 0.5 mg/ml group, 0.1 mg/ml hydroxycamptothecin group and control group. Moreover, there was no significant difference between 1.0 mg/ml group and 2.0 mg/ml hydroxycamptothecin group. In conclusion, topical application of 1.0 mg/ml hydroxycamptothecin may be the optimal concentration in reducing intraarticular adhesion after knee surgery in rabbits.

Arthroscopic lysis of adhesions for stiff total knee arthroplasty

The goal of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of arthroscopic lysis of adhesions after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in improving range of motion (ROM) and providing an improvement in knee function. The authors retrospectively examined 19 patients who underwent arthroscopic lysis of adhesions following TKA due to poor ROM. The criterion for lysis was the inability to flex to 90° at 3 months. All patients were followed for at least 2 years after lysis. Patient demographics, postoperative and follow-up ROM,number of prior surgeries, Knee Society Scores, and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) functional scores were collected. Average ROM increased from 75.37° preoperatively to 98.95° postoperatively. The authors found an association between preoperative knee score and change in ROM between pre-arthroscopic lysis and ROM at final follow-up (P=.0188). When the authors examined the relationship between patient body mass index (BMI) and change in ROM,they found that patients with a BMI higher than 30 kg/m2 had a change of 26.44° compared with patients with a BMI lower than 30 kg/m2, who had a change of only 8.75°. A strong association was found between patient height and change in ROM and final ROM achieved (P=.0062 and .0032, respectively). The authors report a successful outcome among study patients. Furthermore, they found an association between patient height, BMI, and preoperative knee score and the improvement achieved after arthroscopic lysis of adhesions following TKA. The current study's results are comparable with those of published results. The authors recommend arthroscopic lysis of adhesions as a treatment option for stiff knees after TKA that fails after at least 3 months of nonoperative treatment.

Prevention of arthrofibrosis by monoclonal antibody against vascular endothelial growth factor: a novel use of bevacizumab in rabbits

BACKGROUND

Prevention of arthrofibrosis by different drugs and surgical techniques is an essential issue in modern orthopedics.

HYPOTHESIS

Intra-articular injection of bevacizumab can reduce arthrofibrosis on the rabbit's stifle joint model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Arthrofibrosis was induced in the right stifle joint of thirty male New Zealand white rabbits by removing the cortical bone of the medial femoral condyle under general anesthesia. The rabbits were randomly divided into three equal groups. The control group received intra-articular injection of saline; the one-injection group received a single dose of bevacizumab (2.5mg/kg), and the two-injection group received two intra-articular injections; the operation day and 14 days later. Forty-five days after surgery, animals were sacrificed. The severity of fibrosis was assessed based on the range of motion of the joint, a macroscopic adhesion score, and histopathologic variables such as the number of fibroblasts and of inflammatory cells, collagenous matrix deposition, synovial hyperplasia, granulation tissue formation, vascular proliferation, and presence of giant cells.

RESULTS

Although no statistically significant differences were found between the range of motion (P=0.222) and the macroscopic evaluation (P=0.067) of the control group and the one-injection group, all microscopic variables regarding the prevention of arthrofibrosis were significantly superior in the one-injection group except granulation tissue (P=0.347). Compared to the one-injection group, the two-injection group had better results not only in terms of macroscopic evaluation (P=0.001 for range of motion and 0.012 for visual adhesion score) but also in most of the histopathologic variables especially the number of fibroblasts (P=0.002), vascularity (P=0.028) and collagenous matrix deposition (P=0.039).

CONCLUSION

A single intra-articular injection of bevacizumab was effective for prevention of microscopically detected arthrofibrosis in the rabbit. Compared to single injection, two injections of bevacizumab improved the clinical outcome.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II.

Evaluation and treatment of disorders of the infrapatellar fat pad

The infrapatellar fat pad (IFP), also known as Hoffa's fat pad, is an intracapsular, extrasynovial structure that fills the anterior knee compartment, and is richly vascularized and innervated. Its degree of innervation, the proportion of substance-P-containing fibres and close relationship to its posterior synovial lining implicates IFP pathologies as a source of infrapatellar knee pain. Though the precise function of the IFP is unknown, studies have shown that it may play a role in the biomechanics of the knee or act as a store for reparative cells after injury. Inflammation and fibrosis within the IFP, caused by trauma and/or surgery can lead to a variety of arthrofibrotic lesions including Hoffa's disease, anterior interval scarring and infrapatellar contracture syndrome. Lesions or mass-like abnormalities rarely occur within the IFP, but their classification can be narrowed down by radiographical appearance. Clinically, patients with IFP pathology present with burning or aching infrapatellar anterior knee pain that can often be reproduced on physical exam with manoeuvres designed to produce impingement. Sagittal MRI is the most common imaging technique used to assess IFP pathology including fibrosis, inflammation, oedema, and mass-like lesions. IFP pathology is often successfully managed with physical therapy. Passive taping is used to unload or shorten an inflamed IFP, and closed chain quadriceps exercises can improve lower limb control and patellar congruence. Training of the gluteus medius and stretching the anterior hip may help to decrease internal rotation of the hip and valgus force at the knee. Gait training and avoiding hyperextension can also be used for long-term management. Injections within the IFP of local anaesthetic plus corticosteroids and IFP ablation with ultrasound guided alcohol injections have been successfully explored as treatments for IFP pain. IFP pathology refractory to physical therapy can be approached through a variety of operative treatments. Arthroscopic partial resection for IFP impingement and Hoffa's disease has showed favourable results; however, total excision of the IFP performed concomitantly with total knee arthroplasty (TKA) resulted in worse results when compared with TKA alone. Arthroscopic debridement of IFP fibrosis has been successfully used to treat extension block following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, and arthroscopic anterior interval release has been an effective treatment for pain associated with anterior interval scarring. Arthroscopic resection of infrapatellar plicae and denervation of the inferior pole of the patella have also been shown to be effective treatments for refractory infrapatellar pain.

Arthroscopic releases for arthrofibrosis of the knee

Intra-articular inflammation or fibrosis may lead to decreased soft-tissue and capsular compliance, which may result in pain or loss of motion within the knee. Etiology of intra-articular fibrosis may include isolated anterior interval scarring and posterior capsular contracture, as well as fibrosis that involves the suprapatellar pouch or arthrofibrosis that involves the entire synovial space. Initial nonsurgical management, including compression, elevation, and physical therapy, can decrease knee pain and inflammation and maintain range of motion. Surgical management is indicated in the patient who fails conservative treatment. Surgical options include arthroscopic releases of the anterior interval, posterior capsule, and peripatellar and suprapatellar regions. Recent advances in arthroscopic technique have led to improved outcomes in patients with intra-articular fibrosis of the knee.

Arthrofibrosis after surgical fixation of tibial eminence fractures in children and adolescents

BACKGROUND

Tibial eminence fractures are rare injuries in children and adolescents. Displaced fractures require reduction and fixation. Operative stabilization can be accomplished with either open or arthroscopic reduction and fixation. Whereas loss of extension has been reported, there are no reports in the literature that quantify loss of motion or provide guidance for treatment.

PURPOSE

To report a series of patients who developed knee stiffness after operative treatment for displaced tibial eminence fractures.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Review of medical records and imaging studies of pediatric patients with displaced tibial eminence fractures who developed arthrofibrosis after surgical intervention.

RESULTS

Thirty-two patients were identified. Twenty-four required reoperation for loss of flexion (n = 9), loss of extension (n = 4), or both (n = 11). Manipulation under anesthesia resulted in distal femoral fractures and subsequent growth arrest in 3 patients. Twenty-nine patients were able to achieve near full knee motion at final follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Children with tibial spine fractures are at risk for arthrofibrosis. Stabilization of the fracture is important to allow early postoperative rehabilitation. Should stiffness occur, manipulation of the knee should be performed only in conjunction with lysis of adhesions.

Static progressive stretch for the treatment of knee stiffness

Persistent knee stiffness is common after knee arthroplasties, cruciate ligament repairs, and trauma. Static progressive stretch protocols have shown success in treating contractures of the elbow, ankle, and knee in case reports and small case series. This study evaluated static progressive stretch as a treatment method for patients who had refractory knee stiffness, and compared the outcomes to published results of other therapeutic modalities. Forty-one patients who had knee stiffness and who had not improved with conventional physical therapy modalities were treated with a patient-directed orthosis that utilized the principles of static progressive stretch. After a mean of 9 weeks of use (range, 3 to 27 weeks), the total arc of motion increased by a mean of 33 degrees (range, 0 to 85 degrees ). Forty of 41 patients had increased motion at a mean final follow-up time of 1 year (range, 6 months to 2 years), and 93% were satisfied with the results. The outcomes were comparable to other nonoperative treatments reported in the literature, but the results in the present study occurred in a shorter mean treatment time. An orthosis that utilizes the principles of static progressive stretch may be a successful treatment for improving the range of motion and satisfaction of patients who have knee contractures.

Arthrofibrosis of the knee

Better understanding of surgical timing, improved surgical technique, and advanced rehabilitation protocols has led to decreased incidence of motion loss after anterior cruciate ligament injury and reconstruction. However, motion loss from high-energy, multiligament injuries continues to compromise functional outcome. Prevention, consisting of control of inflammation and early motion, remains the key element in avoiding motion loss. However, certain techniques, such as manipulation under anesthesia in conjunction with arthroscopic lysis of adhesions, are reliable treatment options. Open surgical débridement is rarely necessary and should be considered only as a salvage procedure. A greater understanding of the pathogenesis of arthrofibrosis and related inflammatory mediators may result in novel therapies for treating the patient with motion loss.

A new treatment strategy for severe arthrofibrosis of the knee. Surgical technique

BACKGROUND

To reduce the morbidity of traditional quadricepsplasty for the treatment of severe arthrofibrosis of the knee, we instituted a treatment regimen consisting of an initial extra-articular mini-invasive quadricepsplasty and subsequent intra-articular arthroscopic lysis of adhesions during the same anesthesia session. The purpose of the present study was to determine the results of this technique.

METHODS

From 1998 to 2001, twenty-two patients with severely arthrofibrotic knees were managed with this operative technique. The mean age of the patients at the time of the operation was thirty-seven years. After a mean duration of follow-up of forty-four months (minimum, twenty-four months), all patients were evaluated according to the criteria of Judet and The Hospital for Special Surgery knee-rating system.

RESULTS

The average maximum degree of flexion increased from 27 degrees preoperatively to 115 degrees at the time of the most recent follow-up (p < 0.001). According to the criteria of Judet, the result was excellent for sixteen knees, good for five, and fair for one. The average Hospital for Special Surgery knee score improved from 74 points preoperatively to 94 points at the time of the most recent follow-up (p < 0.001). A superficial wound infection occurred in one patient. Only one patient had a persistent 15 degrees extension lag.

CONCLUSIONS

This mini-invasive operation for the severely arthrofibrotic knee can be used to increase the range of motion and enhance functional outcome.