Augmented Stress Weight-bearing CT for Evaluation of Subtle Lisfranc Injuries in the Elite Athlete

BACKGROUND

Lisfranc injuries refer to a disruption or displacement of the tarsometatarsal joint of the foot. Subtle Lisfranc injuries can go undiagnosed on conventional imaging leading to devastating consequences and poor functional outcomes for elite athletes. Objective. The objective of this case study is to present a novel imaging technique using weight-bearing computed tomography (CT) with enhanced stress to identify subtle, dynamically unstable Lisfranc injuries. We illustrate this with a case presentation of an elite athlete who ultimately required surgical fixation for a subtle Lisfranc injury.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To perform an augmented stress weight-bearing CT, the patient was positioned standing, with their feet facing forward, and weight equally distributed. The patient was then coached to symmetrically raise both heels from the scanner platform. This plantarflexion provided augmented stress on the midfoot, allowing for more sensitive imaging of the Lisfranc injury. The weight-bearing CT and augmented stress images undergo 3D reconstruction and postprocessing to render coronal and sagittal images, allowing for comparison of the standard weight-bearing and augmented stress images.

RESULTS

We present the case of a 22-year-old collegiate football lineman sustaining a Lisfranc injury. The injury diagnosis was made by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and clinical examination, without evidence of injury on weight-bearing XR or standard weight-bearing CT. With augmented stress CT imaging, the Lisfranc instability was noted, leading to surgical fixation, and return to sport the next season.

CONCLUSION

We propose this technique for diagnosing subtle, unstable Lisfranc injuries where clinical suspicion persists despite inconclusive imaging, particularly in elite athletes. Further research is needed with larger sample sizes to investigate the sensitivity of this novel imaging technique for the detection of Lisfranc injury.

LEVELS OF EVIDENCE

Level 4: Case Report.

Manipulation Under Anesthesia and Lysis of Adhesions Are the Most Commonly Reported Treatments for Arthrofibrosis of the Knee After Arthroscopy or Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Both Pediatric and Adult Patients

Purpose

To systematically review the literature and provide a detailed summary of the current treatments and outcomes for arthrofibrosis following knee arthroscopy and anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) and to compare the treatment strategies in pediatric and adult populations.

Methods

A systematic review was performed in March 2022 using PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library Databases per Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Search terms consisted of variations of the following: ("arthrofibrosis" OR "stiffness" OR "stiff" OR "complications") AND ("arthroscopy" OR "arthroscop" OR "ACL" OR "anterior cruciate") AND ("treat" OR "care" OR "management" AND "knee"). The inclusion criteria were studies that were written in English, were published since 2000, and that reported outcomes of knee arthroscopy or ACLR for treatment of arthrofibrosis of the knee. The study quality was assessed, and data about the patients and treatments were recorded. Treatments were compared between pediatric and adult patients.

Results

A total of 1,208 articles were identified in the initial search, 42 (3.48%) of which met eligibility criteria, involving treatment regimens for arthrofibrosis following knee arthroscopy or ACLR. Of the 42 studies included, 29 (69.0%) were reported data for adults and 13 (31.0%) reported data for pediatric patients. Thirty-nine studies (92.8%) discussed manipulation under anesthesia and/or lysis of adhesions (LOA) as treatment for arthrofibrosis of the knee, whereas 2 (4.8%) described the use of medications.

Conclusions

Within orthopaedic sports medicine literature, there is variability in the reported treatment options for arthrofibrosis of the knee. Most studies identified manipulation under anesthesia and/or LOA as the treatment among both adult and pediatric patients. Other variants include notchplasty, open posterior arthrolysis, total graft resection, removal of hardware with LOA, dynamic splinting, casting in extension, bracing, and medications.

Level of Evidence

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

Various Definitions of Failure Are Used in Studies of Patients Who Underwent Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Purpose

To conduct a literature review to assess the definitions of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) failure used throughout the orthopaedic literature.

Methods

A systematic search of Embase, Ovid Medline, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science was conducted by a university librarian to identity level I-IV clinical studies on ACLR failure. Inclusion criteria consisted of patients who underwent ACLR and included a definition of failure of ACLR. Patients who underwent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) repairs, animal/cadaver studies, review studies, non-English language articles, and non-full text articles were excluded. Failure data were extracted from each study and categorized. Other data that were extracted included follow-up time after ACLR, failure reoperation rate, and failure reoperation procedure. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the data.

Results

Out of 2,775 studies, 104 (3.75%) met inclusion criteria and were analyzed in this review. The most common definition of ACLR failure included the use of a physical examination, specifically Lachman's test (21/104 [20.2%]), anterior laxity assessment, or a Pivot-Shift test (24/104 [35.2%]) or undergoing or requiring revision ACLR (39/104 [37.5%]). Although some studies used quantitative tests or imaging to help define "failure," others simply defined it as graft rerupture that was otherwise not defined (22/104 [22.5%]). Other common definitions included: the use of imaging (magnetic resonance imaging/radiographs) to confirm graft re-rupture (37/104 [35.6%]), patient-reported outcomes (recurrent instability)/patient reported outcomes measures (International Knee Documentation Committee [IKDC], Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score [KOOS], Tegner) (18/104 [17.3%]), and the use of an arthrometer (KT-1000/2000, Rollimeter, or Kneelax) (17/104 [16.3%]). The least common definitions included graft failure or rerupture confirmed by arthroscopy (13/104 [12.5%]) and nonrevision surgery (2/104 [1.0%]). The failure rate of this procedure ranged from 0% to 100% depending on the definition of "failure."

Conclusion

In this study, we found that a variety of definitions of failure are used among studies published in the orthopaedic literature. The most common criteria for failure of ACLR were the results of physical examination tests (35%), the need for undergoing a revision ACLR (36%), and the use of imaging to diagnose the failure (34%). About 17% of studies included in this review used patient-reported outcomes, specifically recurrent instability, or PROMs (IKDC, KOOS, Tegner) in their assessment of failure of ACLR. The least used definitions of "failure" of ACLR included nonrevision ACLR surgery (2%). Although some studies used similar tests or categories in their definition of failure, there were a variety of score and grade cutoff points between them.

Level of Evidence

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

Rib Stress Fractures and a Novel Muscle-Sparing Rib Fixation Plating in an Elite Tennis Player: A Systematic Review of the Literature and Case Report

A nationally ranked Division One female collegiate tennis player presented with pain in the chest and right posterior rib region after feeling a popping sensation during a routine overhead movement. The patient was eventually diagnosed with 2 lower rib stress fractures. After unsuccessful conservative management, the player underwent an open reduction and internal fixation and autologous bone grafting of the sixth and seventh ribs with a muscle-sparing approach and was able to return to full competition. We present this case along with a systematic review of the literature regarding rib stress fractures, which included 6 separate online data sources (PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, CINAHL, SportDiscus, and Medline). The successful surgical intervention demonstrates a significant option for elite athletes who wish to return to competition but have been unable to with standard of care conservative management of rib stress fractures.

A Scoping Review to Assess Risk of Fracture Associated with Anxiolytic Medications

Introduction

Recent research has focused on evaluating the impact of pharmalogical sources on fracture risk. The purpose of this study was to review the literature on anxiolytic medications that may be associated with an increased risk of fracture.

Methods

A search was conducted in MEDLINE and Embase databases to identify primary clinical studies of patients who sustained a fracture while prescribed anxiolytic medications and were published prior to July 2021. Anxiolytics defined by ATC Class N05B, beta blockers, and zolpidem were included. The search terms consisted of variations of the following: ("Psychotropic Drugs" or MeSH terms) AND ("Fracture" or MeSH terms).

Results

Of 3,213 studies, 13 (0.4%) met inclusion criteria and were evaluated. Fractures associated with benzodiazepine were reported in 12 of 13 studies; the highest risk occurred in patients aged 60 years and older (RR=2.29, 95% CI (1.48-4.40)). The ATC Class N05B showed an increased fracture risk for those ≤ 55 years of age that differed by sex: for men (RR=5.42, 95% CI(4.86-6.05)) and for women (RR=3.33, 95% CI (3.03-3.66)). Zolpidem also showed an increase fracture risk (RR=2.29, 95% CI(1.48-3.56)), but only during the first four weeks of treatment. A relative risk of 0.77, 95% CI(0.72-0.83) was observed for beta blockers.

Conclusions

Fractures are a mainstay of traumatic injuries and are accompanied by economical, physiological, and psychological hardship. With proper assessment and prophylactic measures, fracture risk can be reduced dramatically. Anxiolytic medications have been described widely to increase fracture risk, such as benzodiazepines in 60+ year old patients, and ATC Class N05B anxiolytics increased fracture risk in 55+ year old men and in 55+ year old women. Yet, some studies showed that at low doses, nitrazepam lowered fracture risk. Other anxiolytic medications, such as zolpidem and beta blockers, also showed a decrease in fracture risk. Ultimately, this scoping review helped to illuminate the inconsistency of anxiolytic fracture risk assessment while simultaneously illustrating the necessary steps to guide future research.

Current Definitions of Failure in Lateral Ankle Instability Surgery: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

"Failure" is a term that is frequently used to describe an unfavorable outcome for patients who undergo surgical treatment for lateral ankle instability (LAI). A standard definition of failure for the surgical treatment of ankle instability has not been established by clinicians and researchers.

PURPOSE

To identify the definitions of ankle instability treatment failure that are currently in the literature and to work toward the standardization of the definition.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

A systematic search of MEDLINE, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL, Embase, and Web of Science was conducted to identify clinical studies that included patients who underwent surgical treatment for LAI and included information about surgical failure. Studies with level of evidence 1 to 4 were included in this review. Animal studies, biomechanical studies, cadaveric studies, review articles, and expert opinions were excluded. The included studies were then reviewed for definitions of failure of any surgical procedure that was performed to correct LAI.

RESULTS

Of the 1200 studies found, 3.5% (42/1200) published between 1984 and 2021 met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. After reviewing the data, we found numerous definitions were reported in the literature for LAI surgical failure. The most common was recurrent instability (40% [17/42]), followed by rerupture (19% [8/42]). For the original surgical procedure, the anatomic Broström-Gould technique was used most frequently (57% [24/42]). The failure rate of the Broström-Gould technique ranged from 1.1% to 45.2% depending on the definition of failure.

CONCLUSION

There were multiple definitions of failure for the surgical treatment of LAI, which is one of the reasons why the rate of failure can vary greatly. The literature would benefit greatly from the standardization of the definition of ankle instability treatment failure. This definition should include specific, objective physical examination findings that eliminate the ambiguity surrounding failure.

Return to Sport After Primary Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction: A Survey of The American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine

Introduction

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears are a common sports injury, and typically require a prolonged post-operative rehabilitation. The purpose of this study was to survey members of the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM) to determine their return to sport (RTS) criteria after primary ACL reconstruction (ACLR).

Methods

A 23-question, anonymous survey hosted through Google^® Docs was distributed electronically to AOSSM members. This survey included questions regarding the timing, as well as any functional tests or other metrics used to determine when an athlete is ready to RTS.

Results

A total of 863 surgeons responded over four months. The most popular graft choice was bone patellar tendon bone autograft (63%). For non-pivoting sports, 43% of respondents allowed RTS at five to six months, while 31% allowed RTS at seven to eight months. For pivoting sports, 34% of respondents allowed RTS at seven to eight months, while 36% allowed RTS at nine to ten months. The most common criteria for return to non-pivoting sports include full knee motion (89%) and time after ACLR (76%). The most common criteria for return to pivoting sports include full knee motion (87%) and passing a hop test (80%). Only 21% of respondents assessed for psychological readiness to RTS.

Conclusions

RTS occurred sooner in non-pivoting than pivoting sports, with similar RTS criteria in both groups. Most respondents did not assess for psychological readiness to RTS.

Retrospective chart review: Weightbearing CT scans and the measurement of the Lisfranc ligamentous complex

BACKGROUND

Lisfranc Ligamentous Complex (LLC) injuries are commonly misdiagnosed due to their unreliable projection on plain films. Weightbearing CT (WBCT) scans are a relatively new imaging modality that has not yet been utilized to establish widely referenced baseline anatomic positions.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was conducted of patients who had undergone weightbearing CT of the bilateral lower extremities with one-hundred and twelve being included (56 patients). Measurements of the Lisfranc joint were collected by two independent reviewers. Uninjured symmetric anatomy was used to describe a baseline for normal anatomic variation and to evaluate for sex-based or age-related differences. These measurements were then compared against the injured side.

RESULTS

In patients without Lisfranc injury, the 1st metatarsal base to 2nd metatarsal base distance (Base M1-M2) was 2.7 + /- 0.7 mm; 2nd metatarsal base to medial cuneiform (M2-C1) was 3.7 + /- 0.7 mm; intercuneiform distance was 1.2 + /- 0.3 mm; and sagittal descent 12.2 + /- 5.4 mm. Patients with injury to LLC had a larger M1-M2 base distance (Δ = 0.5903, p < 0.0001) and M2-C1 interval (Δ = 1.8008, p < 0.0001) compared to uninjured side. Males had significantly higher M2-C1 (p = 0.0031), intercuneiform distance (p = 0.0039), and sagittal descent (p = 0.0008) compared to female patients. No significant differences were found between left versus right side in any of the measurements. Intercuneiform distance (p = 0.0039) was found to significantly decrease as age increased, while sagittal descent significantly increased with increased age (p = 0.0066).

CONCLUSION

Weightbearing CT has high utility in identification of Lisfranc injuries particularly when comparing injured and uninjured sides, which may be its greatest utility in defining injuries. This is evident in the excellent diagnostic ability of the M2-C1 measurement. By defining baseline anatomic measurements for Lisfranc complex parameters in our patient population, we provide normal parameters for comparison when evaluating potential subtle injuries.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Augmented stress weightbearing CT for evaluation of subtle tibiofibular syndesmotic injuries in the elite athlete

OBJECTIVE

We aim to present a novel imaging technique utilizing weight-bearing CT with syndesmotic stress to identify subtle, unstable syndesmotic injuries. We illustrate this with a case presentation of such an injury in an elite athlete that ultimately required operative fixation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In order to perform an augmented stress weightbearing CT, the patient is in the standing position, feet facing forward, and with weight distributed equally. The patient is then coached to internally rotate the shin and knee. This places an external rotational moment on the TFS due to the planted foot and ankle. The augmented stress images undergo 3D reconstruction and post-processing to render coronal and sagittal images. These are subsequently compared to standard, conventional weightbearing CT images performed without the external rotation stress.

RESULTS

We illustrate this technique by presenting a case in which a 21-year-old collegiate athlete sustained a Grade II syndesmotic injury, diagnosed by MRI and clinical exam without evidence of instability by standard weightbearing CT or weightbearing radiographs. After undergoing the augmented stress weightbearing CT, the instability was noted. This prompted subsequent operative fixation and ultimately return to sport.

CONCLUSION

We propose this technique for diagnosing unrecognized, subtle dynamically unstable syndesmosis injuries where clinical suspicion persists despite negative imaging, particularly in the elite athlete.

Sex-Based Differences in Outcomes After Hip Arthroscopic Surgery for Femoroacetabular Impingement: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

While sex-based differences in outcomes after hip arthroscopic surgery for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) are often recorded, no studies have been dedicated to analyzing the literature as a whole.

PURPOSE

To investigate whether sex is a predictor of outcomes in studies evaluating hip arthroscopic surgery for FAIS.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. We searched the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Ovid, and PubMed Central databases for English-language studies that evaluated sex-specific outcomes in human populations. The search terms used were as follows: ("Hip Arthroscopy") AND ("Femoroacetabular Impingement" OR "FAI") AND ("Sex" OR "Gender" OR "Male" OR "Female"). Studies with evidence levels 2 through 4 were included. The studies were then screened, followed by data extraction. Modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) outcomes and return-to-sport (RTS) rates were recorded. These were analyzed using random-effects meta-analysis. Heterogeneity was calculated using the I ² statistic.

RESULTS

Of 256 full-text articles screened, 48 articles were included in this analysis; of these, 14 studies (29%) concluded that female sex was a negative predictor of postoperative outcomes, while 6 studies (13%) found female sex to be positive predictor. The remaining 28 studies (58%) found no sex-based differences in postoperative outcomes. Of 7 studies (416 male and 519 female) included in the mHHS analysis, 2 studies concluded that male patients had significantly higher postoperative mHHS scores. Of 6 studies (502 male and 396 female) included in the RTS analysis, 1 study concluded that male patients had a significantly higher RTS rate.

CONCLUSION

Almost one-third of the included studies determined that female sex was a negative predictor of postoperative outcomes, 13% found female sex to be a positive predictor, and 58% found no sex-based differences. Our study illustrates an insufficiency of high-level evidence supporting sex-specific differences in outcomes after hip arthroscopic surgery, but findings indicated that the postoperative mHHS score and RTS rate may be influenced by sex.

Emergency Action Planning in Kasas High Schools

Introduction

Current evidence showed a variable rate of emergency action plan (EAP) implementation and a low rate of compliance to EAP guidelines in United States secondary schools. Compliance to EAP recommendations in Kansas high schools is not known. The purpose of this study was to identify the emergency preparedness of high school athletics in the state of Kansas and identify prevailing characteristics of schools that correlate with decreased compliance of an EAP.

Methods

Athletic directors for high schools in the state of Kansas were asked to participate in a web-based questionnaire that was emailed to each athletic director. The questionnaire identified demographics of the study population, EAP implementation rates, compliance to national EAP guidelines, access to certified medical personnel, and training received by athletics personnel. Descriptive statistics were then compiled and reported.

Results

The response rate for the survey was 96% (341/355). A total of 94.1% (320/340) of schools have an EAP, 81.4% (276/339) of schools have an automated external defibrillator (AED) at all athletic venues, and 51.8% (176/340) of schools had an athletic trainer (AT) on staff. Urban schools were significantly more likely than rural schools to have an AT on staff (OR = 11.10, 95% CI = [6.42, 19.18], p < 0.0001), have an EAP (OR = 3.69, 95% CI = [1.05, 13.02], p = 0.0303), require additional training for coaches (OR = 2.69, 95% CI = [1.42, 5.08], p = 0.0017), and have an AED on-site for some events (OR = 2.18, 95% CI = [1.24, 3.81], p = 0.0057).

Conclusions

Most Kansas high schools have an EAP in place and have at least one AED. Emergency planning should be improved through venue specific EAPs, access to early defibrillation, and additional training. Rural and lower division schools had less AT staffing and consequently were impacted more significantly than urban and higher division schools by these factors. These factors should be taken into account in future improvement strategies.

A Systematic Review of Lower Extremity Return to Sport

Category:

Sports; Ankle; Other

Introduction/Purpose:

A uniform criterion has not been established for return to sport (RTS) testing which is complicated by the lack of a standardized definition of the term RTS. Most commonly, RTS is defined as playing in at least one game of the athletes' respective sport, or the first game played after treatment.1 However, the timeline from the injury and/or treatment date to RTS varies amongst each physician or institution. Regarding the ankle, there is an enormous paucity of functional testing research. Therefore, the purpose of this project is to review current literature for joint-specific and global lower extremity testing to determine the most valid functional test that can be utilized to prevent re-injury as athletes RTS.

Methods:

A systematic search of PubMed, PubMed Central, Cochrane Library, OVID, and Embase databases was conducted to identify clinical studies that included evaluation of a return to sport test or functional test (single test or test battery) for the lower extremities. Both operative and non-operative treatments included in this review. Only studies that had patients between the ages of 14 years old and 40 years old were included. Specfici rehab protocik or treatment plan, non-English publications, non- human or cadaver studies, and studies that did not evaluate return to sport test or function test were excluded.

Results:

Of 8,705 studies, 65 (0.7%) studies published through October of 2021 met inclusion criteria and were analyzed. 52 out of 65 (80%) articles discussed RTS for the knee. Furthermore, 50 out of the 52 (96%) specifically analzyed RTS following ACLR. With this said, we did not abandon ankle and hip RTS cases. Discussed herein, are numerous RTS tests including the most common, isokinetic dynamometry testing which is seen in 38 out of the 52 (73%) of the knee RTS cases. Unfortunately, only 4 out of 65 (6.2%) studies analyzed RTS for the hip and 1 out of the 65 (1.5%) barely touched on the ankle. The remaining studies analyzed healthy participants only.

Conclusion:

More research is clearly required to identify the most valid functional test batteries for joint-specific RTS lower extremity testing. Even with the enormous amount of literature that exists regarding ACL injuries and testing there is no standardized criterion for RTS clearance. As seen in this review, the research available for the hip and ankle is substantially scarcer in regards functional testing. We hope that the suggested test batteries from this review can serve as a framework for future research and validation for joint-specific RTS functional testing.

Augmented Stress Weight-Bearing CT for Evaluation of Subtle Tibiofemoral Syndesmotic Injuries in the Elite Athlete

Category:

Ankle; Sports; Trauma

Introduction/Purpose:

Tibiofibular syndesmotic injuries occur in association with fractures or in isolation, often referred to as 'high ankle sprains'. Dynamic instability of the syndesmosis in the high-level athlete is difficult to diagnose, requiring a high index of suspicion for the identification and surgical stabilization to prevent late adverse sequelae, such as recurrent ankle pain, anterolateral soft tissue impingement, local synovitis, and chronic instability of distal syndesmosis. Both CT and MRI have been helpful in identifying syndesmotic injuries, but are static, non-weight bearing imaging modalities that cannot demonstrate dynamic instability, which may miss the unstable nature of some injuries. We present a novel imaging technique utilizing weight-bearing CT with syndesmotic stress in which a case is presented to illustrate it's utility in the elite athlete.

Methods:

Cone beam weight bearing computed tomography (WBCT) is a well-described imaging modality for evaluation of foot and ankle injuries. We have found it highly beneficial to teach our CT technologists about syndesmosis injuries and the importance of augmented physiologic stress applied across the ankle joint (in addition to the standard WBCT) to better demonstrate instability or motion, particularly at the tibiofibular syndesmosis. To perform an augmented stress weight bearing CT, the patient is positioned in the WBCT scanner and initial images are acquired in the standing weight bearing position with feet directed forward and weight distributed equally. A second image acquisition is then performed (augmented stress), where the patient is coached to firmly plant both feet on the ground and internally rotate the shin and knee. This places an external rotational moment on the TFS due to the planted foot and ankle.

Results:

Our case is of a 21-year-old male collegiate football player, wide receiver, that sustained an eversion injury to his left ankle during game play. He subsequently was unable to bear weight, with pain anteriorly over the distal tibiofibular joint. Pain was reproduced with dorsiflexion and eversion stress; however, he had a negative 'squeeze test' on examination. Initial weight bearing radiographs were negative. An MRI was obtained which did not reveal evidence of syndesmotic injury. Subsequently, weight- bearing CT stress examination of the syndesmosis was obtained and found to have 8 mm widening of the tibiofibular syndesmosis, 4 mm increased when compared to his contralateral, uninjured, ankle. This was also compared with a neutral WBCT without stress that did not illustrate the unstable nature of the injury. The coronal images also demonstrate increased uncovering of the talus underneath the tibial plafond.

Conclusion:

Tibiofibular syndesmotic injuries have historically been detected with standard x-ray, stress plain films, standard CT, and MRI. In cases where injury and stability are not obvious by these diagnostic studies, more subtle injuries may be frequently missed leading to increased morbidity, chronic instability, and increased return to play times. The addition of a stress view on weight-bearing CT can allow further identification of instability of the syndesmosis. We propose this technique for diagnosing otherwise unrecognized, subtle dynamically unstable syndesmosis injuries where clinical suspicion persists despite negative imaging, particularly in the elite athlete.

A Measure of Burnout in Current NCAA Student-Athletes

Introduction. The prevalence of athletes who specialize in sports has increased in recent years. Substantial literature on youth sports has linked early sport specialization to negative consequences, such as burnout and injury. However, empirical evidence comparing rates of burnout and specialization in NCAA athletes is limited. The purpose of this study was to survey current NCAA Division I student-athletes to compare levels of burnout to sex, year of NCAA eligibility, and age at the beginning of sport specialization. Methods. A self-reported survey was distributed to student-athletes at two NCAA Division I institutions, which included demographics, sport specialization history, injury history, and the Athlete Burnout Questionnaire. Results from the three measures of the Athlete Burnout Questionnaire (reduced sense of accomplishment, exhaustion, sport devaluation) were compared to sex, year of NCAA eligibility, age of beginning sport specialization, and injury history. Results. A total of 267 athletes (95 males and 172 females) completed the survey. Of those, 156 (58.4%) were in their first or second year of NCAA eligibility, and 111 (41.6%) were in their third, fourth, or fifth year. Of the total, 121 (46.4%) reported specializing before the age of 15, and 140 (53.6%) specialized at age 16 or older. Females reported significantly higher levels of exhaustion than males (Difference of means (M) = 0.43, 95% confidence interval (CI) = [0.20, 0.66], p < 0.01). Athletes in their third, fourth, or fifth year of eligibility reported significantly higher levels of sport devaluation (M = 0.27, 95% CI = [0.05, 0.48], p < 0.05) than athletes in their first or second year. Athletes who specialized before age 15 did not report significantly higher levels of burnout than athletes who specialized at age 16 or later. In total, 203 athletes (77.2%) reported experiencing any injury. Athletes who reported a history of experiencing any injury demonstrated significantly higher feelings of reduced sense of accomplishment than athletes with no injury history (Difference of means (M) = 0.24, 95% confidence interval (CI) = [0.03, 0.45], p < 0.05). Conclusions. Athletes were more likely to experience elevated levels of burnout if they reported female sex, older NCAA eligibility, or a past injury history. However, athletes were not more likely to experience increased burnout based on age of beginning specialization. The results demonstrated a need to address burnout in athletes following injury and to be aware that females and older athletes are more prone to burnout.

Epidemiology of Ankle Sprain in the Active-Duty Military Population

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Ankle sprain is one of the most prevalent injuries within the military population, resulting in health-care costs, time away from active duty, and negative impacts on overall readiness.

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Female service members appear to be more likely to sustain ankle sprains than male service members.

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There is a need for additional research on prevention methods and rehabilitation programs for ankle sprains in the military population because the rate of ankle sprain in this population exceeds that in populations with less physically demanding lifestyles. Consequently, low-cost prevention strategies could yield substantial benefits.

Nationwide Analysis of Total Ankle Replacement and Ankle Arthrodesis in Medicare Patients: Trends, Complications, and Cost

BACKGROUND

Surgical management of end-stage ankle arthritis consists of either ankle arthrodesis (AA) or total ankle replacement (TAR). The purpose of this study was to evaluate utilization trends in TAR and AA and compare cost and complications.

METHODS

Medicare patients with the diagnosis of ankle arthritis were reviewed. Patients undergoing surgical intervention were split into AA and TAR groups, which were evaluated for trends as well as postoperative complications, revision rates, and procedure cost.

RESULTS

A total of 673 789 patients were identified with ankle arthritis. A total of 19 120 patients underwent AA and 9059 underwent TAR. While rates of AA remained relatively constant, even decreasing, with 2080 performed in 2005 and 1823 performed in 2014, TAR rates nearly quadrupled. Average cost associated with TAR was $12559.12 compared with $6962.99 for AA (P < .001). Overall complication rates were 24.9% in the AA group with a 16.5% revision rate compared with 15.1% and 11.0%, respectively, in the TAR group (P < .001). Patients younger than 65 years had both higher complication and revision rates.

DISCUSSION

TAR has become an increasingly popular option for the management of end-stage ankle arthritis. In our study, TAR demonstrated both lower revision and complication rates than AA. However, TAR represents a more expensive treatment option.

LEVELS OF EVIDENCE

Level III: Retrospective comparative study.

Comparing Sex-Specific Outcomes After Rotator Cuff Repair: A Meta-analysis

Background:

Rotator cuff repair (RCR) is a well-studied procedure. However, the impact of patient sex on outcomes after RCR has not been well studied.

Purpose:

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of sex-based differences in outcomes after RCR and to record what proportion of studies examined this as a primary or secondary purpose.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A systematic review was performed using multiple databases according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Studies were included if they were written in English, performed on humans, consisted of patients who underwent RCR, evaluated at least 1 of the selected outcomes based on patient sex, and had statistical analysis available for their sex-based claim. Excluded were case reports, review studies, systematic reviews, cadaveric studies, and studies that did not report at least 1 sex-specific outcome or included certain other injuries associated with a rotator cuff injury.

Results:

Of 9998 studies screened and 1283 full-text studies reviewed, 11 (0.11%) studies with 2860 patients (1549 male and 1329 female) were included for quantitative analysis. None of these 11 studies examined the impact of patient sex on outcomes after RCR as a primary outcome. Postoperative Constant-Murley scores were analyzed for 7 studies. Male patients had a postoperative Constant-Murley score of 76.77 ± 15.94, while female patients had a postoperative Constant-Murley score of 69.88 ± 17.02. The random-effects model showed that male patients had significantly higher scores than female patients, with a mean difference of 7.33 (95% CI, 5.21-9.46; P < .0001). Analysis of retear rates in 5 studies indicated that there was no difference in the retear rate between sexes (odds ratio, 0.91 [95% CI, 0.49-1.67]).

Conclusion:

Female patients had lower postoperative Constant-Murley scores compared with male patients, but there was no difference in the retear rate. However, these results were based on an analysis of only 11 studies. The paucity of studies examining the impact of sex suggests that more research is needed on the impact of patient sex on outcomes after RCR.

Primary Repair, Reconstruction, and Suture Tape Augmentation All Provide Excellent Outcomes for Lateral Ligament Instability: A Systematic Review

Purpose

To analyze the literature to compare outcomes and complications following primary lateral ankle ligament repair compared with lateral ankle ligament reconstruction and the suture tape augmentation in patients with lateral ankle instability.

Methods

Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) criteria, a systematic literature review using the PubMed/Ovid Medline database was performed (October 11, 1947, to October 1, 2019). Clinical trials that included all the following criteria were considered eligible; published in the English language; patients undergoing primary lateral ankle repair or reconstruction with/without autograft or allograft (anterior talofibular ligament, anterior talofibular ligament + calcaneofibular ligament) or suture tape augmentation; a follow-up at least 1 year; reported least 1 of the measured outcomes (The American Orthopaedic Foot Ankle Score, Karlsson Score, return to sport [RTS], complications, skin wound complications, reoperation). Surgical techniques were evaluated, and studies were subdivided by the following categories: primary repair (PR), reconstruction with graft (GR), and suture tape augmentation (STA). Complications, radiographic outcomes, functional outcome scores, and RTS were analyzed.

Results

A total of 41 of 1,991 studies met the criteria for final analysis. This included 1,920 patients who underwent surgical intervention for chronic lateral instability with at least a 1-year follow-up. There were 350 patients who had GR, 1,486 who underwent the PR, and 84 who had STA. GR group appeared to have the lowest rate of complications: GR 3.1% (11 of 350), PR 4.2% (63 of 1486), and STA 10.7% (9 of 84). Postoperative American Orthopaedic Foot Ankle Score ranged from 89.0 to 95.1 for GR and 90.0 to 98.8 for PR. Postoperative Karlsson scores ranged from 80.9 to 94.4 for GR and from 89.2 to 94.1 for PR. Anterior drawer postoperative scores ranged from 1.4 to 30.3 mm for GR, 2.7 to 8.6 mm for PR, and 4.1 to 4.2 mm for STA. Postoperative talar tilt ranged from 2.4 to 7.3° for GR, 1.9 to 6.0° for PR, and 3.6 to 4.5° for STA. RTS ranged from 9.5 to 20.4 weeks for the PR group; one study reported a RTS of 10.6 weeks for STA.

Conclusions

Excellent outcomes were noted across all intervention groups. Current literature may suggest there is no difference in functional outcomes between patients treated with PR versus GR. However, there may be a potential improvement in functional outcomes with PR versus STA.

Level of Evidence

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

Sex-Specific Outcomes After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background:

Despite the significant difference between men and women in incidence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, there is a paucity of consistent information on the influence of patient sex on outcomes after ACL reconstruction. A previous meta-analysis has demonstrated that female patients have worse outcomes with regard to laxity, revision rate, Lysholm score, and Tegner activity score and are less likely to return to sports (RTS).

Purpose:

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate and compare sex-specific outcomes after ACL reconstruction.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A systematic review was performed using PubMed, PubMed Central, Embase, OVID, and Cochrane databases per PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The following search terms were used: “anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction” OR “ACL reconstruction” OR “anterior cruciate ligament” OR “ACL” AND “gender” OR “sex” OR “male” OR “female” AND “outcome” AND “2015-Present” to gather all relevant articles between 2015 and 2020. A risk-of-bias assessment and quality assessment was conducted on included studies.

Results:

Of 9594 studies initially identified, 20 studies with 35,935 male and 21,455 female patients were included for analysis. The 7 studies reporting International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores showed that male patients had statistically significantly higher postoperative scores (mean difference, 3.02 [95% CI, 1.19-4.84]; P< .01; I² = 66%), and 7 studies that reported the rate of ACL revision showed there was no significant difference between male and female patients (odds ratio, 0.85 [95% CI, 0.45-1.60]; P = .61; I² = 94%). The 7 studies that reported rates of rerupture showed that males were significantly more likely than females to have a graft rerupture (odds ratio, 1.35 [95% CI, 1.22-1.50]; P < .01; I² = 0%). Male patients reported a higher RTS rate than did their female counterparts (59.82% compared with 42.89%); however, no formal statistical analysis could be done because of the variability in reporting techniques.

Conclusion:

Male and female patients with ACL injuries demonstrated similar outcomes regarding their rates of revision; however, male patients were found to have statistically significantly higher postoperative IKDC scores but at the same time higher rerupture rates. Our findings suggest that sex-based differences in outcomes after ACL reconstruction vary based on which metric is used. These results must be considered when counseling patients with ACL injuries.

Traumatic Peroneal Nerve Injuries: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

The common peroneal nerve (CPN) is the most commonly injured peripheral nerve of the lower extremity in patients with trauma. Traumatic CPN injuries have historically been associated with relatively poor outcomes and patient satisfaction, although improved surgical technique and novel procedures appear to improve outcomes. Given the variety of underlying injury modalities, treatment options, and prognostic variables, we sought to evaluate and summarize the current literature on traumatic CPN injuries and to provide recommendations from an analysis of the included studies for treatment and future research.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed using PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Search terms consisted of variations of "peroneal nerve" or "fibular nerve" combined with "injury," "laceration," "entrapment," "repair," or "neurolysis." Information with regard to treatment modality, outcomes, and patient demographic characteristics was recorded and analyzed.

RESULTS

The initial search yielded 2,301 articles; 42 met eligibility criteria. Factors associated with better outcomes included a shorter preoperative interval, shorter graft length when an interposed graft was used, nerve continuity, and younger patient age. Gender or sex was not mentioned as a factor affecting outcomes in any study. Motor grades of ≥M3 on the British Medical Research Council (MRC) scale are typically considered successful outcomes. This was achieved in 81.4% of patients who underwent neurolysis, 78.8% of patients who underwent end-to-end suturing, 49.0% of patients who underwent nerve grafting, 62.9% of patients who underwent nerve transfer, 81.5% of patients who underwent isolated posterior tibial tendon transfer (PTTT), and 84.2% of patients who underwent a surgical procedure with concurrent PTTT.

CONCLUSIONS

Studies included in this review were heterogenous, complicating our ability to perform further analysis. It is not possible to uniformly advocate for the best treatment option, given diverse injury modalities and patient presentations and a variety of prognostic factors. Many studies do not show outcomes with respect to injury modality. Future studies should show preoperative muscle strengths and should clearly define outcomes based on the injury modality and surgical treatment option. This would allow for greater analysis of the most appropriate treatment option for a given mechanism of injury. Newer surgical techniques are promising and should be further explored.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Comparison of the rate of delayed/nonunion in fifth metatarsal fractures receiving anti-inflammatory medications

Purpose

Controversy exists regarding the acute effect of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on early fracture healing. The purpose of this study was to analyze the rate of nonunion or delayed union in patients with fifth metatarsal (5^th MT) fractures. We hypothesize that the use of NSAIDs would increase the rate of nonunion/delayed union in 5^th MT fractures.

Methods

Using PearlDiver, a national insurance database was analyzed. ICD codes were used to identify patients diagnosed with 5^th MT fracture from 2007-2018. Patients were grouped by initial management (nonoperative vs. open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) or non/malunion repair within 60 days) and sub-grouped by whether they had been prescribed at least one pre-defined NSAID. Subsequent ORIF or nonunion/malunion repair operative intervention was used as a surrogate for fracture nonunion/delayed union.

Results

Of the 10,991 subjects with a diagnosis of 5^th MT, 10,626 (96.7%) underwent initial nonoperative treatment, 1,409 of which (13.3%) received prescription NSAIDS within 60 days of diagnosis. 16/1,409 (1.14%) subjects who received anti-inflammatory prescriptions underwent ORIF or repair of non/malunion at least 60 days after diagnosis while 46/9,217 (0.50%; P=0.003483) subjects who did not receive anti-inflammatory prescriptions underwent ORIF or repair of non/malunion at least 60 days after diagnosis. In the 365 subjects who underwent early repair/ORIF (within 60 days), there was no significant difference in the rate of nonunion/delayed union.

Conclusion

The rate of nonunion/delayed union of 5^th MT fractures was significantly higher in subjects receiving NSAIDs within 60 days of initial diagnosis in patients managed non-operatively.

Level of evidence

Level III

Emergency Action Planning in School-Based Athletics: A Systematic Review

Introduction

A significant number of preventable catastrophic injuries occur in secondary school athletics. Compliance to Emergency Action Plan (EAP) recommendations is not well documented. The purpose of this systematic review was to identify compliance to EAP recommendations, access to an athletic trainer (AT) and automated external defibrillator (AED), and current legislative mandates in school-based athletics.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched to identify articles that met criteria for inclusion. Studies in English that focused on adoption, implementation, or compliance with EAPs or other national guidelines pertaining to athlete health were eligible for inclusion. Quality and validity were examined in each article and data were grouped based on outcome measures.

Results

Of 12,906 studies, 21 met the criteria for inclusion and full text review. Nine studies demonstrated EAP adoption rates ranging from 55% - 100%. Five studies found that EAPs were rehearsed and reviewed annually in 18.2% - 91.6% of schools that have an EAP. At total of 9.9% of schools were compliant with all 12 National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA) EAP guidelines. A total of 2.5% - 27.5% of schools followed NATA exertional heat illness guidelines and 50% - 81% of schools had access to an athletic trainer. In addition, 61% - 94.4% of schools had an AED available at their athletic venues. Four of 51 state high school athletic association member schools were required to meet best practice standards for EAP implementation, 7 of 51 for AED access, 8 of 51 for heat acclimation, and 3 of 51 for concussion management.

Conclusions

There was a wide range of EAP adoption and a low rate of compliance to EAP guidelines in U.S. schools. Barriers to EAP adoption and compliance were not well documented and additional research should aim to identify impeding and facilitating factors.

Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty: A PearlDiver study evaluating complications rates, opioid use and utilization in the Medicare population

PURPOSE

Despite increased utilization of unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) for unicompartmental knee osteoarthritis, outcomes in Medicare patients are not well-reported. The purpose of this study is to analyze practice patterns and outcome differences between UKA and TKA in the Medicare population. It is hypothesized that UKA utilization will have increased over the course of the study period and that UKA will be associated with reduced opioid use and lower complication rates compared to TKA.

METHODS

Using PearlDiver, the Humana Claims dataset and the Medicare Standard Analytic File (SAF) were analyzed. Patients who underwent UKA and TKA were identified by CPT codes. Postoperative complications were identified by ICD-9/ICD-10 codes. Opioid use was analyzed by the number of days patients were prescribed opioids postoperatively. Survivorship was defined as conversion to TKA.

RESULTS

In the Humana dataset, 7,808 UKA and 150,680 TKA patients were identified. 8-year survivorship was 87.7% (95% CI [0.861,0.894]). Postoperative opioid use was significantly higher after TKA (186.1 days) compared to UKA (144.7 days) (p < 0.01, Δ = 41.1, 95% CI = [30.41, 52.39]). In the SAF dataset, 20,592 UKA patients and 110,562 TKA patients were identified. Survivorship was highest in patients > 80 years old and lowest in patients < 70 years old. In both datasets, postoperative complication rates were higher in TKA patients compared to UKA patients in nearly all categories.

CONCLUSIONS

UKA represents an increasingly utilized treatment for osteoarthritis in the Medicare population and may be comparatively advantageous to TKA due to reduced opioid use and complication rates after surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Comparing Sex-Specific Outcomes After Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction for Patellar Instability: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

The impact of patient sex on outcomes after medial patellofemoral ligament ligament reconstruction (MPFLR) has not been well studied.

PURPOSE

To conduct a systematic review to determine sex-based differences in outcomes after MPFLR for patellar instability and the proportion of studies examining this as a primary or secondary purpose.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed using the PubMed, Cochrane Library, PubMed Central, Ovid, and Embase databases according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Studies were included if they were written in English, were performed on humans, consisted of patients who underwent MPFLR with allograft or autograft, evaluated at least 1 of the selected outcomes comparing male and female patients, and had statistical analysis available for relevant findings. Excluded were case reports, review studies or systematic reviews, studies that did not evaluate at least 1 sex-specific outcome, studies that included other injuries associated with patellofemoral instability injury, cadaveric studies, and those in which patients underwent concomitant procedures.

RESULTS

The initial search yielded 3470 studies; 2647 studies remained after removing duplicates. Of the 401 studies that underwent full-text review, 10 met all inclusion criteria and were included for quantitative analysis. A meta-analysis could not be performed given the heterogeneity within the data set. Of the 2647 studies evaluated in this study, only 2 (0.08%) studies examined the impact of patient sex on MPFLR outcomes as a primary purpose and only 8 (0.30%) studies explored it as a secondary purpose.

CONCLUSION

Only 0.38% of the articles compared outcomes between male and female patients after MPFLR. The limited data available were too heterogenous to draw any concrete conclusions about the impact of patient sex on outcomes after MPFLR. Further research in this area is warranted, as findings may influence treatment plans and improve patient outcomes.

Sex-specific differences in outcomes after anterior shoulder surgical stabilization: a meta-analysis and systematic review of literature

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Variability in Rehabilitation Protocols after Superior Labrum Anterior Posterior Surgical Repair

Introduction

Rehabilitation after a superior labral anterior posterior (SLAP) repair is an important aspect of patient outcomes; however, no standardized rehabilitation protocol has been defined. The purpose of this paper is to assess the variability of rehabilitation after a SLAP repair to understand the need for standardization to improve patient outcomes.

Methods

Protocols for SLAP repairs were collected through a search for Academic Orthopedic Programs and a general Google search using the terms “[Program Name (if applicable)] SLAP Repair Rehab Protocol”. Protocols were compared by sling, range of motion (ROM), physical therapy, return to sport (RTS), return to throwing, and biceps engagement and tenodesis recommendations. Protocols for non-operative or generalized shoulders were excluded.

Results

Sixty protocols were included. A total of 61.7% (37/60) recommended a sling for four to six weeks and 90% (54/60) included a full ROM recommendation, but time was variable. There were different exercises recommended, but pendulum swings were recommended by 53% (32/60), submaximal isometrics by 55% (33/60), and scapular strengthening by 65% (39/60). Of the sixty protocols, 33% (20/60) recommended return to sports in 24 weeks and 38.3% (23/60) recommended allowing throwing in 16 weeks.

Conclusions

There was variability in protocols for SLAP repair, especially time until full ROM, RTS, and biceps strengthening. Time in sling and scapular strengthening were the least variable. A lack of specificity within protocols in what return to throwing meant for functional ability made it difficult to compare protocols. Considering the large number of orthopedic programs, a relatively small number had published protocols. Further studies are needed to evaluate a standardized post-operative rehabilitation for SLAP repairs to improve outcomes.

Sex-Specific Differences Following Lateral Ankle Ligament Repair

BACKGROUND

Chronic ankle instability is a common condition that can be treated with lateral ankle ligament repair. These procedures have a reported success rate greater than 85% in the literature, but little has been reported about the differences in postoperative outcomes between males and females. The purpose of this study was to evaluate sex-specific outcomes following lateral ankle ligament repair.

METHODS

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we used Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses criteria to search for articles on electronic databases and included studies in which study participants underwent primary lateral ligament repair and sex-specific outcomes were evaluated. Functional postoperative outcomes for males and females were recorded and statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

Out of 2768 studies, 7 (0.25%) met inclusion criteria and were analyzed in this review. These studies included 618 patients (402 males [65%] and 216 females [35%]) who underwent primary lateral ligament repair for ankle instability. Karlsson score (P = .1582) and American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score (P = .1586) analyses found no statistically significant difference between males and females. Postoperative success rate-defined as a "good" or "excellent" Karlsson score (>81)-was not found to be significantly different between males and females (P = .9374).

CONCLUSION

There was no difference in postoperative mean Karlsson scores, AOFAS scores, or success rates between males and females who underwent primary lateral ankle ligament repair.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic.

Defining Return to Sport: A Systematic Review

Background:

Return to sport (RTS) commonly serves as a measure for assessment of clinical outcomes in orthopaedic sports medicine surgery. Unfortunately, while RTS is commonly utilized in research for this purpose, currently there is no widely accepted or standardized definition for when an athlete has officially returned to his or her sport.

Purpose:

To conduct a systematic review to evaluate and report the differences in specific definitions of RTS utilized in the orthopaedic surgery literature.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A systematic review was performed using PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Trials databases per PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Search terms consisted of variations of “RTS” combined with variations of “orthopedic surgery” and “define” to capture as many relevant articles as possible. The definition of RTS was recorded and analyzed.

Results:

A total of 718 articles were identified in the initial search, 29 of which met eligibility criteria, providing a clear definition of RTS. Of the 29 studies included, 20 (69.0%) defined RTS as an athlete competing in a game or other competitive play. Three (10.3%) defined this as the athlete competing in a game or other competitive play but with an explicitly stated competition-level modifier of the athlete returning to his or her preinjury level of competition. Two articles (6.9%) included returning to training or practice, and the remaining 4 articles (13.8%) used terminology other than the standard RTS.

Conclusion:

There is variability in the definition of RTS used in orthopaedic sports medicine literature. Most studies refer to the athlete competing in a game or other competitive play. Other variants include returning to practice/training and explicitly defined competition levels and objectives. Future studies should aim to standardize the definition of RTS to facilitate more precise assessment of outcome after sports medicine surgery. Using terminology that describes components of the recovery and rehabilitation process, such as “return to participation” and “return to performance,” in addition to RTS will allow us to more clearly understand the athlete’s recovery and associated level of competition or performance.

Early Versus Delayed Mobilization Post-Operative Protocols for Primary Lateral Ankle Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Introduction

Lateral ankle instability represents a common orthopaedic diagnosis. Nonoperative treatment through focused physical therapy provides satisfactory results in most patients. However, some patients experience persistent chronic lateral ankle instability despite appropriate nonoperative treatment. These patients may require stabilization, which can include primary lateral ligament reconstruction with a graft to restore ankle stability. Optimal post-operative rehabilitation of lateral ankle ligament reconstruction remains unknown, as surgeons vary in how long they immobilize their patients post-operatively. The aim of this review was to provide insight into early mobilization (EM) versus delayed mobilization (DM) post-operative protocols in patients undergoing primary lateral ankle ligament reconstructions to determine if an optimal evidence-based post-operative rehabilitation protocol exists in the literature.

Methods

Following PRIMSA criteria, a systematic review/meta-analysis using the PubMed/Ovid Medline database was performed (10/11/1947 – 1/28/2020). Manuscripts that were duplicates, non-lateral ligament repair, biomechanical, and non-English language were excluded. Protocols were reviewed and divided into two categories: early mobilization (within three weeks of surgery) and delayed mobilization (after three weeks of surgery). Functional outcome scores (American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society Score (AOFAS), Karlsson scores), radiographic measurements (anterior drawer, talar tilt), and complications were evaluated using weighted mean differences (pre- and post-operative scores) and mixed-effect models.

Results

After our search, twelve out of 1,574 studies met the criteria for the final analysis, representing 399 patients undergoing lateral ankle reconstruction. Using weighted mean differences the DM group showed superior AOFAS functional scores compared to the EM group (28.0 (5.5) vs. 26.3 (0.0), respectively; p < 0.001), although sample size was small. Conversely, no significant differences were found for Karlsson functional score (p = 0.246). With regards to radiographic outcome, no significant differences were observed; anterior drawer was p = 0.244 and talar tilt was p = 0.937. A meta-analysis using mixed-effects models confirmed these results, although heterogeneity was high.

Conclusions

While there are some conflicting results, the findings indicated the timing of post-operative mobilization made no difference in functional outcomes or post-operative stability for patients undergoing lateral ankle ligament reconstruction. Because heterogeneity was high, future studies are needed to evaluate these protocols in less diverse patient groups and/or more consistent techniques for lateral ankle ligament reconstruction.

Imaging Modalities for the Glenoid Track in Recurrent Shoulder Instability: A Systematic Review

Background:

The glenoid track (GT) concept illustrates how the degree of glenoid bone loss and humeral bone loss in the glenohumeral joint can guide further treatment in a patient with anterior instability. The importance of determining which lesions are at risk for recurrent instability involves imaging of the glenohumeral joint, but no studies have determined which type of imaging is the most appropriate.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to determine the validity and accuracy of different imaging modalities for measuring the GT in shoulders with recurrent anterior instability. We hypothesized that 3-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) would be the most accurate imaging technique.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A systematic review was performed according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines using PubMed, Scopus, Medline, and Cochrane libraries between database inception and July 2019. We included all clinical trials or cadaveric studies that evaluated imaging modalities for assessing the GT.

Results:

A total of 13 studies were included in this review: 1 study using 2-dimensional CT, 6 studies using 3D-CT, 4 studies using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), 1 study using magnetic resonance arthrography (MRA)/MRI, and 1 study combining CT and MRI. The mean sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy for 2D-CT was 92%, 100%, and 96%, respectively. For MRI, the means were 72.2%, 87.9%, and 84.2%, respectively. No papers included 3D-CT metrics. The mean intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) for intraobserver reliability were 0.9046 for 3D-CT and 0.867 for MRI. ICCs for interobserver reliability were 0.8164, 0.8845, and 0.43 for 3D-CT, MRI, and MRA/MRI, respectively.

Conclusion:

There is evidence to support the use of both CT and MRI imaging modalities in assessing the GT. In addition, few studies have compared radiographic measurements with a gold standard, and even fewer have looked at the GT concept as a predictor of outcomes. Thus, future studies are needed to further evaluate which imaging modality is the most accurate to assess the GT.

Differences in Outcomes Between Anterior and Posterior Shoulder Instability After Arthroscopic Bankart Repair: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background:

The glenohumeral joint is one of the most frequently dislocated joints in the body, particularly in young, active adults.

Purpose:

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate and compare outcomes between anterior versus posterior shoulder instability.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A systematic review was performed using the PubMed, Cochrane Library, and MEDLINE databases (from inception to September 2019) according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Studies were included if they were published in the English language, contained outcomes after anterior or posterior shoulder instability, had at least 1 year of follow-up, and included arthroscopic soft tissue labral repair of either anterior or posterior instability. Outcomes including return-to-sport (RTS) rate, postoperative instability rate, and pre- and postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores were recorded and analyzed.

Results:

Overall, 39 studies were included (2077 patients; 1716 male patients and 361 female patients). Patients with anterior instability had a mean age of 23.45 ± 5.40 years (range, 11-72 years), while patients with posterior instability had a mean age of 23.08 ± 8.41 years (range, 13-61 years). The percentage of male patients with anterior instability was significantly higher than that of female patients (odds ratio [OR], 1.36; 95% CI, 1.04-1.77; P = .021). Compared with patients with posterior instability, those with anterior instability were significantly more likely to RTS (OR, 2.31; 95% CI, 1.76-3.04; P < .001), and they were significantly more likely to have postoperative instability (OR, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.07-2.23; P = .018). Patients with anterior instability also had significantly higher ASES scores than those with posterior instability (difference in means, 6.74; 95% CI, 4.71-8.77; P < .001). There were no significant differences found in postoperative complications between the anterior group (11 complications; 1.8%) and the posterior group (3 complications; 1.6%) (OR, 1.12; 95% CI, 0.29-6.30; P = .999).

Conclusion:

Patients with anterior shoulder instability had higher RTS rates but were more likely to have postoperative instability compared with posterior instability patients. Overall, male patients were significantly more likely to have anterior shoulder instability, while female patients were significantly more likely to have posterior shoulder instability.

Epidemiology of Foot and Ankle Injuries in NCAA Jumping Athletes in the United States During 2009-2014

Background

Foot and ankle injuries comprise a significant proportion of all injuries sustained by National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) athletes. In particular, sports that combine jumping and rapid changes in direction are associated with increased lower extremity injuries.

Purpose

To describe the epidemiology of foot and ankle injuries in men's and women's jumping sports, including NCAA men's and women's basketball, women's volleyball, and women's gymnastics, during the 2009-2010 through 2013-2014 seasons.

Study Design

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods

Injury-surveillance data were obtained from the NCAA Injury Surveillance Program for the 2009-2010 through 2013-2014 seasons. Injuries were examined by mechanism, activity during injury, and participation restriction time. Injury rates per 1000 athlete-exposures (AEs), injury rate ratios, and risk ratios with 95% CIs were calculated. Reported sex differences were calculated for men's and women's basketball. All 95% CIs not containing 1.0 were considered statistically significant.

Results

A total of 1136 players sustained foot and ankle injuries (483 male and 653 female) over 612,680 AEs. These injuries resulted in a combined rate of 1.85 per 1000 AEs (95% CI, 1.75-1.97). Ankle sprains were the most common injury (63.7%), with lateral ligamentous complex injuries making up 77.1% of all ankle sprains. The most common foot injury varied based on sport and sex. Ankle injury rates were higher in male versus female basketball players (injury rate ratio, 1.33 [95% CI, 1.13-1.57]), but foot injury rates did not differ. Among basketball and volleyball players, player contact during jumping was the most common injury mechanism. Female gymnasts had higher overuse injury rates than other athletes (0.49/1000 AEs [95% CI, 0.30-0.74]; P < .002). Overall, female basketball players were 1.81 times more likely to sustain an overuse injury than male basketball players (95% CI, 1.02-3.20; P = .02).

Conclusion

The most common foot and ankle injury sustained in collegiate jumping sports was a lateral ligamentous complex ankle sprain. Injury-prevention programs focusing on ankle flexibility, strength, and proprioception may help to alleviate the injury burden and lessen severity. Improving the anticipation of contact during jumping and landing may reduce injury rates and increase player safety. The increased prevalence of overuse injuries in female collegiate athletes competing in jumping sports necessitates further investigation to reduce injury rates through prevention and training programs.

Publicly Accessible Rehabilitation Protocols for Acromioclavicular Joint Reconstruction Are Widely Variable

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess the availability and variability of publicly accessible acromioclavicular (AC) joint reconstruction rehabilitation protocols.

Methods

Protocols were identified by searching the websites of orthopedic surgery residency programs in the United States located from the Fellowship and Residency Electronic Interactive Database Access System. Private practice groups with publicly available protocols were also included.

Results

Twenty-one protocols were included for review. Four of 14 (29%) protocols suggested starting passive range of motion (ROM) at postoperative week 2. Six of 20 (30%) protocols recommended initiation of full ROM at 6 weeks. Active ROM beginning at 6 weeks was recommended by 6 of 20 (30%) protocols. Six of 16 (38%) protocols recommended initiating active assisted ROM at 6 weeks. Sling immobilization for 6 weeks was recommended by 8 of 18 (44%) protocols. Shoulder isometric exercise initiated at 4 weeks was recommended by 4 of 13 (31%) protocols. Seven of 21 (33%) protocols recommended initiating shoulder strengthening at 12 weeks postoperatively. Return to sport time was included in 17 (81%) protocols with a range of 12 to 48 weeks (mean, 22 weeks).

Conclusions

There was substantial variability in publicly accessible AC joint rehabilitation protocols, including a wide range in the recommendations for appropriate time to return to sport. Although strengthening exercises, active ROM, and active assisted ROM were recommended by most protocols, there were considerable differences in recommendations for when to initiate these rehabilitation components.

Clinical Relevance

Rehabilitation is important for outcomes of AC joint reconstruction. This study shows the variability present in rehabilitation recommendations among online-accessible AC joint reconstruction rehabilitation protocols.

Weightbearing Protocols After Posterolateral Corner Reconstruction: A Systematic Review

Background

Multiligamentous knee injuries with a posterolateral corner injury represent a devastating insult to the knee.

Purpose

To evaluate multiligamentous knee reconstruction rehabilitation programs and recommend a rehabilitation program based on a review of published outcomes studies.

Study Design

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

A MEDLINE (PubMed), OVID, and Embase database search was conducted using the terms "posterolateral corner" and "rehabilitation." All articles obtained were examined to confirm their rehabilitation programs for multiligamentous knee injuries. These injuries included a posterolateral corner injury plus an isolated anterior or posterior cruciate ligament injury or a combined cruciate injury.

Results

Ten publications representing 245 patients with multiligamentous knee reconstruction were analyzed. Rehabilitation protocols were divided by weightbearing (WB) status: in 2 studies, patients were non-WB until postoperative 4 weeks (delayed WB; n = 61); 5 studies permitted progressive WB until postoperative 6 weeks (progressive WB; n = 123); and 3 studies allowed WB immediately after surgery (immediate WB; n = 61). No significant difference in outcome scores among the 3 WB groups was found. Arthrofibrosis requiring manipulation under anesthesia was the most common complication (11%) in the delayed WB group, followed by the immediate WB group (3%) and the progressive WB group (0%; P < .01). Overall complication rates were highest in the delayed WB group (44%), followed by the immediate and progressive WB groups (25% and 3%, respectively; P < .00001). The delayed WB group was permitted to return to sport at a mean of 10.5 months from the index procedure; the progressive WB group, at 6.0 months; and the immediate WB group, at 9.0 months (P < .05).

Conclusion

This review revealed no significant difference in outcome scores when comparing immediate, progressive, and delayed WB protocols. Time to permitted return to sport was not significantly different among the groups, but there existed a trend toward earlier return in the progressive WB group. Patients in the delayed and immediate WB groups experienced a higher overall complication rate. Progressive WB postoperative protocols may decrease the risk of complications without compromising outcomes; however, more research is needed to identify the optimal postoperative rehabilitation protocol, given the significant data heterogeneity currently available in the literature.

Online Rehabilitation Protocols for Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction With and Without Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy Are Variable Among Institutions

Purpose

To compare and contrast the various rehabilitation protocols for medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction and MPFL reconstruction plus tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO) published online by academic orthopaedic surgery residency programs and private practice institutions throughout the United States.

Methods

We performed a systematic electronic search of MPFL reconstruction rehabilitation protocols in academic orthopaedic surgery residency programs in the United States using Google’s search engine (www.google.com) based on the Fellowship and Residency Electronic Interactive Database Access System (FREIDA). Private practice organizations publishing MPFL reconstruction or MPFL reconstruction–TTO rehabilitation protocols that were found on the first page of search results were also included, but no comprehensive search for private practice protocols was performed. Protocols specifying an MPFL reconstruction with TTO were included for separate review because of altered weight-bearing status postoperatively. A list of comparative criteria was created to assess the protocols for the presence and timing of the various rehabilitation components.

Results

From the list of 189 U.S. academic residency programs, as well as additional private practice protocols found in the Google search, 38 protocols were included for review (31 protocols for isolated MPFL reconstruction and 7 protocols for MPFL reconstruction plus TTO). A return to full range of motion by week 6 was recommended by 15 (48.4%) of the isolated MPFL reconstruction protocols and 6 (85.7%) of the MPFL reconstruction–TTO protocols. Six weeks of knee brace wear was recommended by 13 isolated MPFL reconstruction protocols (43.3%) and 4 MPFL reconstruction–TTO protocols (57.1%). Moreover, 6 isolated MPFL reconstruction protocols (19.4%) and 3 MPFL reconstruction–TTO protocols (42.9%) recommended use of a patellar stabilizing brace postoperatively.

Conclusions

There is substantial variability among rehabilitation protocols after MPFL reconstruction, as well as MPFL reconstruction plus TTO, including postoperative range of motion, weight-bearing status, and time until return to sport. Furthermore, many online protocols from academic orthopaedic surgery residency programs and private practices in the United States fail to mention several of these parameters, most notably functional testing to allow patients to return to sport.

Clinical Relevance

Proper rehabilitation after MPFL reconstruction with or without TTO is an important factor to a patient’s postoperative outcome. This study outlines the variability in online rehabilitation protocols after MPFL reconstruction with or without TTO published online by academic residency programs and private practice institutions.

The Concept of Sport Sampling Versus Sport Specialization: Preventing Youth Athlete Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of youth athletes specializing in 1 sport has been increasing over the past decade. Subsequently, the rate of youth athlete injury has also been increasing. It is possible that an association exists between youth specialization and sports injury rate.

PURPOSE

To determine if sport sampling is associated with a lower sports injury rate in youths compared with youths who specialize in 1 sport.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines using PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane library. Inclusion criteria included studies written in the English language, studies with athletes between 7 and 18 years of age, studies that report injury rates, and studies that specify if athletes were sport samplers or specialized in a sport. Data relevant to this study, including injuries and patient characteristics, were extracted and statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

The initial search identified 324 studies, 6 of which met inclusion criteria. From these 6 studies, the total participant number was 5736. Of those, 2451 (42.7%) were "sport samplers," 1628 (28.4%) were "sport specializers," and 1657 (28.9%) were considered "others" (ie, could not be classified as true samplers or true specializers). The average age of all the athletes was 14.6 years (range, 7-18 years). Sport specializers had a significantly higher injury risk than the sport samplers (RR, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.19-1.57; P < .0001). There was a higher risk of injury in the "others" group when compared with the "sport sampler" group (RR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.14-1.29; P < .0001). There was a higher risk of injury in the "sport specializer" group over the "others" group (RR, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.04-1.14; P < .005).

CONCLUSION

Sport sampling is associated with a decreased risk of sports injury in youth athletes when compared with those who specialize in 1 sport. Injury rates increase as a youth athlete becomes increasingly specialized. Youth athletes would benefit substantially from participating in sport sampling.

Review of Variability in Rehabilitation Protocols after Lateral Ankle Ligament Surgery

INTRODUCTION

Ankle sprains are one of the most common athletic injuries. If a patient fails to improve through conservative management, surgery is an option to restore ankle stability. The purpose of this study was to analyze and assess the variability across different rehabilitation protocols for patients undergoing either lateral ankle ligament repair, reconstruction, and suture tape augmentation.

METHODS

Using a web-based search for published rehabilitation protocols after lateral ankle ligament repair, reconstruction, and suture tape augmentation, a total of 26 protocols were found. Inclusion criteria were protocols for post-operative care after an ankle ligament surgery (repair, reconstruction, or suture tape augmentation). Protocols for multi-ligament surgeries and non-operative care were excluded. A scoring rubric was created to analyze different inclusion, exclusion, and timing of protocols such as weight-bearing, range of motion (ROM), immobilization with brace, single leg exercises, return to running, and return to sport (RTS). Protocols inclusion of different recommendations was recorded along with the time frame that activities were suggested in each protocol.

RESULTS

Twenty-six protocols were analyzed. There was variability across rehabilitation protocols for lateral ankle ligament operative patients especially in the type of immobilizing brace, time to partial and full weigh bearing, time to plantar flexion, dorsiflexion, eversion and inversion movements of the ankle, and return to single leg exercise and running. For repair and reconstruction, none of these categories had greater than 60% agreement between protocols. All (12/12) repair, internal brace, and unspecified protocols and 86% (12/14) of reconstruction protocols recommended no ROM immediately postoperatively. Eighty-six percent (6/7) of repair and 78% (11/14) of reconstruction protocols recommended no weight-bearing immediately after surgery, making post-operative ROM and weight-bearing status the most consistent aspects across protocols. Five protocols allowed post-operative weight-bearing in a cast to keep ROM restricted. Sixty-six percent (2/3) of suture tape augmentation protocols allowed full weight-bearing immediately post-operatively. Suture tape augmentation protocols generally allowed rehabilitation to occur on a quicker time-line with full weight-bearing by week 4-6 in 100% (3/3) of protocols and full ROM by week 8-10 in 66% (2/3) protocols. RTS was consistent in repair protocols (100% at week 12-16) but varied more in reconstruction.

CONCLUSION

There is significant variability in the post-operative protocols after surgery for ankle instability. ROM was highly variable across protocols and did not always match-up with supporting literature for early mobilization of the ankle. Return to sport was most likely to correlate between protocols and the literature. Weight-bearing was consistent between most protocols but requires further research to determine the best practice. Overall, the variability between programs demonstrated the need for standardization of rehabilitation protocols.

Review of Variability in Rehabilitation Protocols after Lateral Ankle Ligament Surgery

Introduction. Ankle sprains are one of the most common athletic injuries. If a patient fails to improve through conservative management, surgery is an option to restore ankle stability. The purpose of this study was to analyze and assess the variability across different rehabilitation protocols for patients undergoing either lateral ankle ligament repair, reconstruction, and suture tape augmentation. Methods. Using a web-based search for published rehabilitation protocols after lateral ankle ligament repair, reconstruction, and suture tape augmentation, a total of 26 protocols were found. Inclusion criteria were protocols for post-operative care after an ankle ligament surgery (repair, reconstruction, or suture tape augmentation). Protocols for multi-ligament surgeries and non-operative care were excluded. A scoring rubric was created to analyze different inclusion, exclusion, and timing of protocols such as weight-bearing, range of motion (ROM), immobilization with brace, single leg exercises, return to running, and return to sport (RTS). Protocols inclusion of different recommendations was recorded along with the time frame that activities were suggested in each protocol. Results. Twenty-six protocols were analyzed. There was variability across rehabilitation protocols for lateral ankle ligament operative patients especially in the type of immobilizing brace, time to partial and full weigh bearing, time to plantar flexion, dorsiflexion, eversion and inversion movements of the ankle, and return to single leg exercise and running. For repair and reconstruction, none of these categories had greater than 60% agreement between protocols. All (12/12) repair, internal brace, and unspecified protocols and 86% (12/14) of reconstruction protocols recommended no ROM immediately postoperatively. Eighty-six percent (6/7) of repair and 78% (11/14) of reconstruction protocols recommended no weight-bearing immediately after surgery, making post-operative ROM and weight-bearing status the most consistent aspects across protocols. Five protocols allowed post-operative weight-bearing in a cast to keep ROM restricted. Sixty-six percent (2/3) of suture tape augmentation protocols allowed full weight-bearing immediately post-operatively. Suture tape augmentation protocols generally allowed rehabilitation to occur on a quicker time-line with full weight-bearing by week 4-6 in 100% (3/3) of protocols and full ROM by week 8-10 in 66% (2/3) protocols. RTS was consistent in repair protocols (100% at week 12-16) but varied more in reconstruction. Conclusion. There is significant variability in the post-operative protocols after surgery for ankle instability. ROM was highly variable across protocols and did not always match-up with supporting literature for early mobilization of the ankle. Return to sport was most likely to correlate between protocols and the literature. Weight-bearing was consistent between most protocols but requires further research to determine the best practice. Overall, the variability between programs demonstrated the need for standardization of rehabilitation protocols.

Early Versus Delayed Mobilization Postoperative Protocols for Lateral Ankle Ligament Repair: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background:

The majority of patients with an acute lateral ankle ligamentous injury are successfully treated nonoperatively with functional rehabilitation; however, a small proportion of these patients experience persistent chronic instability and may require surgical intervention. Delayed primary repair of the ruptured ligaments is most commonly indicated for these patients. Optimal rehabilitation after lateral ankle ligament repair remains unknown, as surgeons vary in how they balance protection of the surgical repair site with immobilization against the need for ankle joint mobilization to restore optimal postoperative ankle range of motion.

Purpose:

To compare early and delayed mobilization (EM and DM, respectively) postoperative protocols in patients undergoing primary lateral ankle ligament repair to determine optimal evidence-based rehabilitation recommendations.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, a meta-analysis using the PubMed/Ovid MEDLINE database was performed (October 11, 1947 to October 16, 2017), searching for articles involving lateral ankle ligament repair. Postoperative protocols were reviewed and divided into 2 categories: EM (within 3 weeks of surgery) and DM (more than 3 weeks post surgery). Return to sport (RTS), outcome scores (American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society [AOFAS] ankle-hindfoot scale and Karlsson score), radiographic outcomes (talar tilt and anterior drawer), and complications of both populations were recorded and statistically analyzed.

Results:

A total of 28 of 1574 studies met the criteria for the final analysis, comprising 1457 patients undergoing primary lateral ankle ligament repair. The postoperative AOFAS score was significantly greater in the EM versus DM group (98.8 vs 91.9, respectively; P < .001), as was the postoperative Karlsson score (92.2 vs 90.0, respectively; P < .001). However, the EM group had significantly greater postoperative laxity on both the anterior drawer test (6.3 vs 3.9 mm, respectively; P < .001) and talar tilt test (5.1° vs 4.5°, respectively; P < .001). Also, the DM group had significantly lower rates of overall complications (3.1% vs 11.4%, respectively; P < .001) and skin wound complications (1.3% vs 3.8%, respectively; P = .005). RTS was not significantly different between groups (P = .100).

Conclusion:

Patients with EM postoperative protocols demonstrated improved functional outcomes; however, the EM group had increased objective laxity and a higher complication rate. Additional randomized studies are needed to definitively evaluate early versus delayed rehabilitation protocol timetables to optimize functional outcomes without compromising long-term stability.

A Review of Online Rehabilitation Protocols Designated for Rotator Cuff Repairs

Purpose

To compare publicly available rehabilitation protocols designated for rotator cuff (RTC) repairs published online by academic residency programs and private practice institutions.

Methods

A systematic electronic search using the Fellowship and Residency Electronic Interactive Database Access System (FREIDA) was performed for RTC repair rehabilitation protocols. Private practice programs with published rehabilitation protocols that were discovered during the Google search were also included for review, but no comprehensive search for private practice protocols was performed. The main exclusion criteria consisted of non–English-language protocols and protocols without any of the time-based components in question. Included protocols were assessed independently based on the specified RTC tear size (small [≤1 cm], medium [1-4 cm], large or massive [≥5 cm], or no mention of size). Protocols were compared based on the inclusion, exclusion, and timing of certain rehabilitation components.

Results

A total of 96 rehabilitation protocols were included for review, from 39 academic institutions and 28 private practice programs. Specific instructions for concomitant biceps tenodesis were included in 26 protocols (27.1%). Of the 96 protocols, 88 (91.7%) did not place restrictions on early postoperative passive range of motion (PROM) of the shoulder. Isolated PROM with restrictions on active range of motion was most commonly recommended for the first 4 or 6 weeks postoperatively (80.2%). Use of a sling or immobilizer was most frequently recommended for the first 4 or 6 weeks postoperatively (78.1%). Wide variation was noted in recommendations for returning to resistance strengthening, with the highest incidence being 27 protocols recommending returning at 12 weeks (28.1%); this further varied based on the size of the tear. A total of 21 protocols (21.9%) recommended the use of cryotherapy postoperatively.

Conclusions

Although certain rehabilitation components were common, such as duration of PROM and sling or immobilizer use, a large degree of variation remains among published rehabilitation protocols after RTC repair, and this variability is still seen even when subdividing by the size or severity of the RTC tear.

Clinical Relevance

Rehabilitation after RTC repair is crucial to patient outcomes. This study summarizes the variability among online rehabilitation protocols for RTC repair in the United States and emphasizes the importance of appropriate rehabilitation after RTC surgery.

Comparing Burnout in Sport-Specializing Versus Sport-Sampling Adolescent Athletes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of adolescent athletes who specialize in sports has increased in recent years. Substantial literature on youth sports has linked early sport specialization to negative consequences, such as burnout and injury. However, empirical evidence directly comparing burnout rates in sport specialization versus sport sampling is very limited.

PURPOSE

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate psychological burnout in adolescent athletes who sport specialize compared with adolescent athletes who sport sample.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed through use of the PubMed, SportDiscus, PsychInfo, and CINAHL databases (between inception and May 2019) according to PRISMA-IPD (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses of individual participant data) guidelines. Results from the 3 measures of the Athlete Burnout Questionnaire and athlete specialization status were recorded and analyzed. An athlete was determined to be a "sport specializer" if he or she met the following 3 criteria: (1) athletic participation limited to 1 sport, (2) which is competed in > 8 months in 1 year, and (3) to the exclusion of all other sports.

RESULTS

Of 3578 studies, 8 met criteria for final meta-analysis, which included 1429 athletes (mean age, 15.59 years; range, 12.5-17.2 years). Of these, 1371 (95.9%) were sport specializers, whereas 58 (4.1%) were sport samplers. A total of 1422 (99.5%) athletes completed the Athlete Burnout Questionnaire. Athletes who specialized reported higher levels of burnout than athletes who did not specialize. Specializers had a greater sense of reduced accomplishment (difference of means [△], 0.87; 95% CI, 0.67-1.08; P < .01). Specializers also reported greater exhaustion (△, 0.46; 95% CI, 0.24-0.68; P < .01) and sport devaluation (△, 0.41; 95% CI, 0.22-0.60; P < .01) than athletes who were samplers.

CONCLUSION

Adolescent sport specialization was associated with greater levels of burnout in all 3 aspects (reduced sense of accomplishment, sport devaluation, and exhaustion) compared with sport sampling.

Terminal Sterilization of Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Allografts: A Systematic Review of Outcomes

INTRODUCTION

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are common and reconstruction can be completed with either autograft or allograft tissue. However, there is concern about an increased failure rate with allograft tissue. The purpose of this study was to systematically review the available evidence to determine the effect of irradiation and level of dose on the failure rates of allograft in ACL reconstruction.

METHODS

A literature search was performed using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science from January 2000 to September 2013. Inclusion criteria consisted of the following: (1) primary, unilateral, single-bundle allograft ACL procedure, (2) studies with data documenting graft type and terminal sterilization technique, (3) subjective assessments of outcome, and (4) objective assessments of outcome. Studies without reported subjective and objective outcomes and those pertaining to revision ACL reconstruction were excluded. Failures were defined and compared between irradiated and non-irradiated grafts, as well as between grafts irradiated with 1.2 - 1.8 Mrad and those with 2.0 - 2.5 Mrad.

RESULTS

Of the 242 articles identified via initial search, 17 studies met the final inclusion criteria. A total of 1,090 patients were evaluated in this study, all having undergone unilateral primary ACL reconstruction with allograft tissue with 155 failures. The failure rate between non-irradiated (98/687, 14.7%) and irradiated (57/408, 14.0%) was not statistically significant (p = 0.86). Grafts in the high-dose irradiation group (27/135, 20.0%) had a statistically significant higher (p < 0.001) rate of failure than those in the low-dose irradiation group (30/273, 10.6%).

CONCLUSION

The irradiation of an allograft increases the risk of failure after an ACL reconstruction but the use of lower doses of radiation decreases that risk.

Terminal Sterilization of Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Allografts: A Systematic Review of Outcomes

Introduction. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are common and reconstruction can be completed with either autograft or allograft tissue. However, there is concern about an increased failure rate with allograft tissue. The purpose of this study was to systematically review the available evidence to determine the effect of irradiation and level of dose on the failure rates of allograft in ACL reconstruction. Methods. A literature search was performed using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science from January 2000 to September 2013. Inclusion criteria consisted of the following: (1) primary, unilateral, single-bundle allograft ACL procedure, (2) studies with data documenting graft type and terminal sterilization technique, (3) subjective assessments of outcome, and (4) objective assessments of outcome. Studies without reported subjective and objective outcomes and those pertaining to revision ACL reconstruction were excluded. Failures were defined and compared between irradiated and non-irradiated grafts, as well as between grafts irradiated with 1.2 - 1.8 Mrad and those with 2.0 - 2.5 Mrad. Results. Of the 242 articles identified via initial search, 17 studies met the final inclusion criteria. A total of 1,090 patients were evaluated in this study, all having undergone unilateral primary ACL reconstruction with allograft tissue with 155 failures. The failure rate between non-irradiated (98/687, 14.7%) and irradiated (57/408, 14.0%) was not statistically significant (p = 0.86). Grafts in the high-dose irradiation group (27/135, 20.0%) had a statistically significant higher (p < 0.001) rate of failure than those in the low-dose irradiation group (30/273, 10.6%). Conclusion. The irradiation of an allograft increases the risk of failure after an ACL reconstruction but the use of lower doses of radiation decreases that risk.

Return to Sport After Turf Toe Injuries: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background

The prevalence of turf toe injuries has increased in recent years. However, uncertainty remains as to how to optimally treat turf toe injuries and the implications that the severity of the injury has on outcomes, specifically return to sport (RTS).

Purpose

To determine RTS based on treatment modality and to provide clinicians with additional information when comparing operative versus nonoperative treatment of turf toe injuries in athletes.

Study Design

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed using the PubMed/Ovid MEDLINE/PubMed Central databases (May 1964 to August 2018) per PRISMA-IPD (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses of Individual Participant Data) guidelines. RTS, treatment, severity of injury, athletic position, and sport were recorded and analyzed.

Results

Of 858 identified studies, 12 met the criteria for the final meta-analysis. The studies included 112 athletes sustaining a total of 121 turf toe injuries; 63 (52.1%) of these injuries were treated surgically, while 58 (47.9%) were treated nonoperatively, and 53.7% were classified by the grade of injury (grade I, n = 1; grade II, n = 9; grade III, n = 55). Overall, 56 (46.3%) injuries could not be classified based on the data provided and were excluded from the final analysis. The median time to RTS for patients treated nonoperatively was 5.85 weeks (range, 3.00-8.70 weeks) compared with 14.70 weeks (range, 6.00-156.43 weeks) for patients treated surgically (P < .001); however, there was variability in the grade of injury between the 2 groups. Similarly, patients who sustained grade II injuries returned to sport more quickly (8.70 weeks) than patients who had a grade I (13.04 weeks) or grade III injury (16.50 weeks) (P = .016). The amount of time required to RTS was significantly influenced by the athlete's level of play (16.50 weeks for both high school and college levels; 14.70 weeks for professional level) (P = .018).

Conclusion

The time to RTS for an athlete who suffers from a turf toe injury is significantly influenced by the severity of injury and the athlete's level of competition. Professional athletes who suffer from turf toe injuries RTS sooner than both high school and college athletes. However, there are a limited number of high-level studies evaluating turf toe injuries in the athletic population. Further research is necessary to clearly define the appropriate treatment and RTS protocols based on sport, position, and level of play.

Increased rates of knee arthroplasty and cost of patients with meniscal tears treated with arthroscopic partial meniscectomy versus non-operative management

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine the cost of arthroscopic partial meniscectomy (APM), one of the most common surgeries performed by orthopaedic surgeons, and the associated rate of progression to knee arthroplasty (KA) compared to patients treated non-operatively after diagnosis of meniscal tear.

METHODS

Utilizing data mining software (PearlDiver, Colorado Springs, CO), a national insurance database of approximately 23.5 million orthopaedic patients was queried for patients diagnosed with a meniscal tear. Patients were classified by treatment: non-operative and arthroscopic partial meniscectomy and were followed after initial diagnosis for cost and progression to knee arthroplasty.

RESULTS

There were 176,407 subjects in the non-op group and 114,194 subjects in the arthroscopic partial meniscectomy group. Arthroscopic partial meniscectomy generated more cost than non-operative ($3842.57 versus $411.05, P < 0.001). Arthroscopic partial meniscectomy demonstrated greater propensity to need future knee arthroplasty (11.4% at 676 days) than those treated non-operatively (9.5% at 402 days) (P < 0.001). Female patients demonstrated a higher rate of progression to knee arthroplasty in the arthroscopic partial meniscectomy and non-operative groups (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Compared to non-operative treatment for meniscal tears, arthroscopic partial meniscectomy is more expensive and does not appear to decrease the rate of progression to knee arthroplasty. Patients undergoing arthroscopic partial meniscectomy yielded on average a delay of only 9 months (274 days) before undergoing knee arthroplasty. Female patients experienced a significantly higher rate of progression to knee arthroplasty. The authors recognize the limitations of this type of study including its retrospective nature, reliance upon accurate coding and billing information, and the inability to determine whether symptoms including mechanical locking played a role in the decision to perform an APM.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Simultaneous Bilateral Knee Dislocation During Weight Training: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

CASE

We describe the clinical course and treatment of a patient who sustained simultaneous bilateral knee dislocation under low-velocity atraumatic conditions, and provide a review of the literature. Dislocations of the native knee joint are uncommon orthopaedic injuries but they are true emergencies because of the concern for concomitant neurovascular injury; therefore, they may be limb-threatening injuries.

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, there are few reports of simultaneous bilateral knee dislocation and no reports of this occurring during weight training. The risk of knee dislocation can be reduced by avoiding locking and hyperextension of the knees during any type of leg press or squatting exercise.

Gout Presenting as Acute Hip Pain in a Young Woman: A Case Report

CASE

A 28-year-old previously healthy woman developed worsening right hip pain without any preceding trauma or injury. Because of concern for septic arthritis, she underwent arthroscopic irrigation and debridement. The culture specimens were negative; crystal analysis showed monosodium urate crystals, which are consistent with an acute gout flare. The patient was started on naproxen and prednisone therapy and had substantial improvement in hip pain.

CONCLUSION

Gout is a common cause of joint pain in older individuals. While rare in younger patients, our case report shows that gout should be included in the differential diagnosis when a patient presents with acute monoarthritis, regardless of age.

Cost comparison and complication rate of Lisfranc injuries treated with open reduction internal fixation versus primary arthrodesis

BACKGROUND

Controversy exists regarding optimal primary management of Lisfranc injuries. Whether open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) or primary arthrodesis is superior remains unknown.

METHODS

A national insurance database of approximately 23.5 million orthopedic patients was retrospectively queried for subjects who were diagnosed with a Lisfranc injury from 2007 to 2016 based on international classification of diseases (ICD) codes (PearlDiver, Colorado Springs, CO). Patients with lisfranc injuries then progressed to either nonoperative treatment, ORIF, or primary arthrodesis. Associated treatment costs were determined along with complication rate and hardware removal rate.

RESULTS

2205 subjects with a diagnosis of Lisfranc injury were identified in the database. 1248 patients underwent nonoperative management, 670 underwent ORIF, and 212 underwent primary arthrodesis. The average cost of care associated with primary arthrodesis was greater ($5005.82) than for ORIF ($3961.97,P = 0.045). The overall complication rate was 23.1% (155/670) for ORIF and 30.2% (64/212) for primary arthrodesis (P = 0.04). Rates of hardware removal were 43.6% (292/670) for ORIF and 18.4% (39/212) for arthrodesis (P < 0.001). Furthermore, 2.5% (17/670) patients in the ORIF group progressed to arthrodesis at a mean of 308 days, average cost of care associated with this group of patients was $9505.12.

DISCUSSION

Primary arthrodesis is both significantly more expensive and has a higher complication rate than ORIF. Open reduction and internal fixation demonstrated a low rate of progression to arthrodesis, although there was a high rate of hardware removal, which may represent a planned second procedure in the management of a substantial number of patients treated with ORIF.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III Retrospective Cohort Study.

Effect of Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus on Complication and Reoperation Rates of Ankle Arthrodesis and Total Ankle Arthroplasty

Category:

Diabetes

Introduction/Purpose:

Diabetes mellitus (DM) poses a risk for increased rate of complications in many orthopaedic procedures, especially in patients undergoing elective arthroplasty procedures. Treatment of end-stage ankle arthritis includes both arthroplasty and arthrodesis. Current literature provides minimal guidance regarding outcomes of total ankle replacement (TAR) or ankle arthrodesis (AA) in diabetic patients. The authors of this study utilized a large database to compare rates of postoperative complications and reoperations of diabetic patients undergoing surgical management of ankle arthritis to rates seen in non-diabetic patients.

Methods:

Using the PearlDiver Technologies, Inc. database, Medicare patients diagnosed with ankle arthritis using ICD-9 codes were identified from 2005 to 2014. Patients were then sorted as diabetic or non-diabetic. Diabetic patients were then further stratified into Type 1 diabetes (T1DM) and Type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Type 2 diabetics requiring insulin (T2ID) and not requiring insulin (T2NID) were also isolated. Patients were identified who underwent either AA or TAR utilizing ICD-9 procedure and CPT codes. These groups were evaluated for postoperative complications and reoperation rates. Chi-Squared testing was used to determine significance. Multivariate analysis was performed to determine whether diabetes represents an independent risk factor.

Results:

1477 diabetic patients underwent TAR and 5399 underwent AA versus 3900 TAR and 7838 AA in nondiabetics. Diabetics undergoing AA experienced complications at 32.2%, reoperations at 30.8%, and revisions at 18.7% versus 13.3%, 22.3%, and 19.2% respectively in patients without diabetes(P<0.05). In diabetics undergoing TAR, the complication rate was 21.6% and reoperation rates were 16.9% versus 12.5% and 13% respectively in their non-diabetic counterparts(P<0.05). Revision rates were similar. Patients with T1DM had more reoperations and complications in both TAR and AA compared to those with T2DM (P<0.05). In both surgical groups, Patients with T2ID had more complications and reoperations than those with T2NID(P<0.05). Multivariate analysis revealed diabetes as an independent risk factor for complication and reoperation in AA but only complication in TAR(P <0.05).

Conclusion:

Patients with a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus experienced higher complication and total reoperation rates when undergoing either TAR or AA. T1DM appears to impart a greater risk of surgical complication and repeat surgical intervention than does T2DM. However when insulin is required in T2DM, complication and reoperation rates are similar to those of T1DM. Patient selection for surgical management of end-stage ankle arthritis should incorporate diabetic type and insulin dependency when considering surgical intervention.