Robot-assisted orthopedic surgeries around shoulder joint: where we are?

This study aims to comprehensively review the current literatures about robot-assisted techniques for shoulder joint arthroplasty and also in experimental articles or case series about around shoulder soft tissue surgeries including arthroscopy, tendon transfer and brachial plexus surgeries. This article evaluates the existing literature and clinical studies to suggests future direction of robotic-assisted techniques in shoulder joint surgeries. Robotic surgery has emerged as an innovative and transformative technology in orthopedics, offering advancements in surgical precision and optimization particularly during total hip and knee arthroplasty. In shoulder joint, patients specific instrumentation with preoperative planning and intraoperative navigation system are being used. Robotic-assisted shoulder arthroplasty will be introduced. In soft tissue surgery, robot-assisted tendon transfer and around brachial plexus surgeries is being clinically tried. In additions, postoperative robot-assisted rehabilitation after may have potential advantages. With the overall development of several industries including robotic technology, robot-assisted pre-, intra- and post-operative techniques could be an essential part of the overall shoulder surgery. However, further research and larger-scale studies are needed to establish its long-term efficacy, and potential complications.

Is All-on-four effective in case of partial mandibular resection? A 3D finite element study

INTRODUCTION

The aim of the work is to analyze stress distribution on 3D Finite Element (FE) models at bone, implant, and framework level of different designs for fixed implant-supported prostheses in completely edentulous patients, comparing results on whole and partially resected mandibles.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

3D anisotropic FE models of a whole and of a partially resected mandible were created using a TC scan of a cadaver's totally edentulous mandible. Two types of totally implant-supported rehabilitation were simulated, with four implants: parallel fixtures on whole mandible and on resected mandible, All-on-four-configured fixtures on whole mandible and on partially resected mandible. A superstructure comprising only metal components of a prosthetic framework were added, while stress distribution and its maximum values were analyzed at bone, implant, and superstructure level.

RESULTS

The results highlight that: (1) implant stresses are greater on the whole mandible than on the resected one; (2) framework and cancellous-bone stresses are comparable in all cases; (3) on the resected mandible, maximum stress levels at the cortical-bone/implant interface are higher than in whole-mandible rehabilitation. The opposite applies for maximum stresses on external cortical bone, measured radially with respect to the implant from the point of maximum stress at the interface.

DISCUSSION

On the resected mandible, All-on-four configuration proved biomechanically superior to parallel implants considering radial stresses on implants and cortical bone. Still, maximum stresses increase at the bone/implant interface. A design with four parallel implants minimizes the stress on a resected mandible while, on the whole mandible, the All-on-four rehabilitation proves superior at all levels (bone, implant, and framework).

[Elbow prosthesis after acute fractures : Indications and technique]

Good to very good clinical results can be achieved in older patients with the implantation of a total elbow prosthesis in cases of distal humeral fractures by taking the morphological features of the fractures, the bone quality as well as the individual patient requirements and variables into account. The most commonly used design is the cemented semiconstrained linked total elbow endoprosthesis. The unlinked prosthesis design and hemiarthroplasty require intact or adequately reconstructable musculoligamentous structures or condyles and a preserved or replaced radial head. The recommended weight limit after total elbow prosthesis as well as potential intraoperative and postoperative complications must be considered and discussed with the patients. A secondary total elbow arthroplasty is also possible after primary conservative treatment approaches, e.g., in the case of contraindicated surgery in the fracture situation, persistent pain and functional restrictions. This article provides an overview of the technique and the appropriate indications.

Automatic surgical planning based on bone density assessment and path integral in cone space for reverse shoulder arthroplasty

PURPOSE

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is an effective surgery for severe shoulder joint diseases. Traditionally, the preoperative planning procedure of RSA is manually conducted by experienced surgeons, resulting in prolonged operating time and unreliable drilling paths of the prosthetic fixation screws. In this study, an automatic surgical planning algorithm for RSA was proposed to compute the optimal path of screw implantation.

METHODS

Firstly, a cone-shaped space containing alternative paths for each screw is generated using geometric parameters. Then, the volume constraint is applied to automatically remove inappropriate paths outside the bone boundary. Subsequently, the integral of grayscale value of the CT is used to evaluate the bone density and to compute the optimal solution. An automatic surgical planning software for RSA was also developed with the aforementioned algorithms.

RESULTS

Twenty-four clinical cases were used for preoperative planning to evaluate the accuracy and efficiency of the system. Results demonstrated that the angles among the prosthetic fixation screws were all within constraint angle(45°), and the stability rate of the planned prosthesis was 94.92%. The average time for the automatic planning algorithm was 4.39 s, and 83.96 s for the whole procedure. Repetitive experiments were also conducted to demonstrate the robustness of our system, and the variance of the stability coefficient was 0.027%.

CONCLUSIONS

In contrast to the cumbersome manual planning of the existing methods for RSA, our method requires only simple interaction operations. It enables efficient and precise automatic preoperative planning to simulate the ideal placement of the long prosthetic screws for the long-term stability of the prosthesis. In the future, it will have great clinical application prospects in RSA.

A case report on a IV-degree thermal crush injury of right upper arm：The application of functional prosthesis implantation technology

Severe IV-degree thermal crush injury of limbs involved the subcutaneous fascia, muscle and bone, which may lead to amputation and has a great impact on the patient's quality of life. We can repair wounds with pedicle flaps or even free flaps, However, there are still huge challenges in bone defect of extremities and functional reconstruction. In recent years, with the development of functional prostheses, we have reconstructed limb functions in many patients helping them to complete their daily lives. We report a case where the right upper arm was injured by thermal crush, leading severe burns to the skin, fascia, muscle and bone. We applied a pedicled latissimus dorsi flap and a free anterolateral thigh flap to repair the wound, and realized the function of limb salvage and movement of the right upper arm by implanting 3D printed scapula, upper arm and elbow joint prostheses. This case illustrates that IV-degree burns involving bones have new technologies to repair and achieve mobility now.

An Initial Experience of Shoulder Resections and Reconstruction for Bone Tumours from a Cancer Centre in North-East India

Advances in surgery and multidisciplinary approach have made limb salvage surgery feasible in most patients with tumours around the shoulder joint. Although resection and reconstruction options are complex, good outcomes can be achieved when performed at a specialised centre. The data of patients with bone tumours who underwent proximal humeral resection and reconstruction in a single cancer centre were prospectively analysed. Comparison between biological and non-biological reconstruction was done in seven patients of which three patients underwent biological reconstruction and four patients had non-biological reconstruction. Measurement data were presented as mean ± standard deviation. The mean values were compared using independent t test. Kaplan-Meier method was used to evaluate survival with log rank test for comparison among groups. A p value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant at 95% confidence interval. There were six males and two female patients. Mean follow-up duration was 17.3 months. The mean age of patients was 24.7 ± 16.3 years. The mean functional score for biological reconstruction was 26.3 ± 1.16 and for non-biological reconstruction was 24.5 ± 1.3 with a p value of 0.1. Overall survival of patients with biological reconstruction was 75% and non-biological reconstruction was 100% with a p value of 0.3. Recurrence-free survival for biological reconstruction and non-biological reconstruction was 75% and 100%, respectively, with p value of 0.3. Limb salvage surgery in a dedicated cancer centre is a feasible option for most tumours around the shoulder joint. Biological and non-biological reconstructions both produced acceptable functional outcomes in our patients.

Safety of boneless reconstruction of the mandible with a CAD/CAM designed titanium device: The replica cohort study

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated the safety of REPLICA, a CAD/CAM-designed patient-specific titanium mandible, in patients with mandibular defects not suitable for reconstruction with traditional techniques.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We performed a cohort study with a composite primary outcome assigned at the end of a 1-year follow-up. The outcome was assigned in the presence of all the following: 1) absence of intraoral or skin extrusion of REPLICA; 2) decrease or cessation of oral pain; 3) stability or increase in mouth opening; 4) resumption of oral feeding without the need of nasogastric tube; 5) absence of fracture at multidetector computer tomography (MDCT); 6) absence of displacement (MDCT); 7) absence of screw loosening (MDCT). The secondary outcome was the patient-reported QOL at 6 months of follow-up as detected by the EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-H&N35 questionnaires.

RESULTS

Between March 2012 and June 2017, 18 consecutive patients, with a median (IQR) age of 67 (65;74) underwent reconstruction of mandibular defects with REPLICA at our Unit. The primary outcome was reached by 14 of the 18 patients. QOL data were available for 15 patients at the 6-month follow-up, showing a good profile of general and disease-specific QOL.

CONCLUSION

REPLICA offered a safe solution at 1-year for the treatment of mandibular defects not suitable for reconstruction with traditional techniques, and was associated with subjective well-being and satisfaction. Further studies are needed to assess the full range of indications of REPLICA.

Revision arthroplasty with rotating hinge systems for total knee arthroplasty instability

OBJECTIVE

Restoring stability after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and improving joint function using a cemented rotating hinge system.

INDICATIONS

Ligament instability and/or osseous defects (including Anderson Orthopaedic Research Institute [AORI] classification type II defects) after primary TKA or TKA revision surgery.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Distal femoral or proximal tibial bowing requiring implant systems that provide femoral or tibial offset stems. Persistent periprosthetic infection. Poor therapeutic compliance. AORI type III defects.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

Medial arthrotomy. Femoral and tibial component removal with small saw blades and chisels. Intramedullary alignment for the tibial and femoral cuts. Debridement and removal of membranes and cement remnants. Reconstruction of joint line and correct TKA alignment. Trial reduction. Cement fixation.

POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT

Unrestricted range of motion, partial weight bearing for 4 weeks.

RESULTS

Between 2012 and 2013, 18 patients suffering from ligament insufficiency after TKA were revised using the described system and included in a prospective study protocol. The mean follow-up was 37 months (range 30-46 months). There was a significant improvement of the Oxford Knee Score (OKS) from 19 (range 7-29) preoperatively to 29 (range 10-45) postoperatively (p = 0.004). The Knee Society Score (KSS) knee assessment subscore improved from 35 (range 9-70) to 67 (range 35-97) (p = 0.002) and the pain score from 7 (range 0-50) to 24 (range 0-50) (p = 0.008).

Does mobile-bearing have better flexion and axial rotation than fixed-bearing in total knee arthroplasty? A randomised controlled study based on gait

Objective

To analyse the 6 degrees of freedom of the knee and gait data of patients with medial knee osteoarthritis before and after fixed-bearing (FB) and mobile-bearing (MB) total knee arthroplasty (TKA) ​and examine the influence of TKA on gait characteristics and the difference between FB and MB prosthesis. We also sought to explore the prosthesis options available for TKA in these patients.

Methods

Thirty patients who underwent TKA at the Department of Orthopedics at our hospital from June to October 2017 were included. All patients had a lower limb mechanical axis (hip-knee-ankle angle) of less than 180° which were regarded as genu varum knees and had medial knee osteoarthritis. Patients were randomised divided into the FB group ​and the MB group according to the knee prosthesis implanted. An infrared navigation three-dimensional portable knee motion analysis system (Opti-Knee®, Shanghai Innomotion, Inc.) was used to acquire data on the 6 degrees of freedom of both knees when walking on flat ground before and after surgery (angle of tibia relative to femur parameters: flexion-extension, internal rotation–external rotation, abduction–adduction; displacement parameters: anterior–posterior, proximal–distal, medial–lateral). Postoperative follow-up efficacy was assessed using the Oxford Knee Score system.

Results

There were significant differences in the maximum values of the internal/external rotation and flexion/extension angle between patients post-TKA and the healthy population, p values were 0.007 and <0.001,respectively. The postoperative maximum values of genu varum and internal rotation in both FB [(−9.49 ​± ​5.99°), (−5.77 ​± ​3.42°), respectively] and MB [(−9.64 ​± ​4.83°), (−7.54 ​± ​4.51°), respectively] groups were lower than the preoperative ones [FB (−15.13 ​± ​6.78°), (−8.28 ​± ​4.83°); MB (−13.28 ​± ​3.98°), (−9.46 ​± ​4.99°), respectively] (p ​≤ ​0.001), while the postoperative maximum values of flexion angle and anterior displacement in both FB [(46.11 ​± ​4.14°), (0.71 ​± ​0.35 ​cm), respectively] and MB [(49.33 ​± ​3.98°), (0.75 ​± ​0.89 ​cm), respectively] groups were larger than the preoperative ones [FB (43.15 ​± ​3.77°), (0.26 ​± ​0.74 ​cm); MB (44.62 ​± ​5.92°), (0.33 ​± ​0.79°), respectively] (p ​≤ ​0.001). The postoperative range of flexion/extension angle in both FB (40.13 ​± ​4.14°) and MB (45.82 ​± ​3.76°) groups was significantly larger than the preoperative one [FB (36.17 ​± ​6.07°), MB (37.09 ​± ​3.93°), respectively] (p ​≤ ​0.001). There were also significant increases in range of anterior–posterior displacement in the FB group (0.85 ​± ​0.32 ​cm) postoperatively compared with the preoperative one (0.71 ​± ​0.92 ​cm) (p ​= ​0.016) ​and significant increases in range of medial-lateral displacement (0.64 ​± ​0.73 ​cm) in the MB group postoperatively compared with the preoperative one (0.52 ​± ​0.91 ​cm) (p ​= ​0.025). The mean flexion/extension angle of the MB group was significantly greater than the FB group after surgery in both the stance phase and the swing phase (p ​< ​0.001). There were significant differences in postoperative knee axial rotation during the gait cycle between the MB and FB groups (p ​= ​0.028) ​and that postoperative internal rotation of the tibia relative to the femur increased in the MB group. The Oxford Knee Score at the last follow-up visit about 7.5 months after surgery was 15.6 ​± ​1.3 and 15.1 ​± ​1.1 points for FB and MB groups, respectively. This difference was not significant (p ​= ​0.428).

Conclusions

TKA can make the parameters of knee gait characteristics closer to the normal population. Medial knee osteoarthritis patients who received a MB prosthesis in TKA had better joint flexion function and axial rotation than the FB one. However, there is insufficient evidence to suggest that the MB prosthesis is a better option for patients with medial knee osteoarthritis.

The translational potential of this article

To date, no consensus for prosthesis selection in TKA has been established. This study found significant differences in joint flexion/extension angle and internal/external rotation during gait post-TKA surgery in medial knee osteoarthritis patients who received different prostheses. This will provide some references for prosthesis selection for a large number of genu varum patients in clinical practice.

[Use of antibiotics in bones : Prophylaxis and current treatment standards]

BACKGROUND

Treatment of bone infection is difficult due the systemic administration of antibiotics, which means that only low concentrations reach the inflamed bone tissue. Loss of bone stock is common in osteomyelitis and device associated infection. Local antibiotics are administered in several ways for prophylactic purposes and also for treatment of bone infection. We intend to show the options and limitations of clinical use of antibiotic-loaded bone grafts.

SUITABILITY

Bone grafts are a suitable carrier system for antibiotics. Bone grafts may be loaded with a variety of antimicrobial agents so that individual therapies may be carried out. Critical systemic side effects are unlikely even though extreme high drug concentrations are obtained locally, if the thresholds for loading with antibiotics are respected. Thus, antibiotic-loaded bone grafts are appropriate for prophylaxis and therapy as well. If processing is done in the operating theatre compliance to the legal rules must be respected.

RULES

Due to a lack of standardised procedures for loading, application and performance of the application of antibiotic-loaded bone grafts medical societies are being asked to initiate consensus meetings in order to issue recommendations or guidelines with respect to antibiotic-loaded bone grafts to establish reliable rules for surgeons using these devices.

Does the Surgeon-reported Outcome Correlate with Patient-reported Outcome after Total Knee Arthroplasty? A Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been proved to be a successful and cost-effective treatment for improving pain and function in patients with knee arthritis. Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is one of the most common orthopaedic surgeries performed worldwide and advancement in surgical techniques and prosthetic designs have improved the patient outcomes. However, concerns and priorities of patients and surgeons relating to joint replacement may differ.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

306 TKAs in 223 patients were evaluated for functional outcome using surgeon reported American Knee Society Knee Score (KS)/Functional Score (FS) and patient-reported Oxford Knee Score (OKS). We have also assessed the correlation between FS and OKS at midterm follow up.

RESULTS

The mean preoperative KS, FS, and OKS in 223 patients were 42.76, 42.4, and 38.84 and the midterm mean KS, FS, and OKS were 84.29, 73.40, and 30.26, respectively. There was a statistically significant improvement in the KS, FS, and OKS at midterm follow up in Category A (CAT A) (bilateral TKA or unilateral with asymptomatic contralateral knee), CAT B (unilateral TKA with symptomatic other knee) and CAT C (inflammatory arthritis). Overall, the correlation between the midterm FS and OKS was fair. However, in CAT A and CAT B, there was no significant correlation between FS and OKS, but CAT C had a strong correlation. There was a statistically significant improvement in the KS, FS, and OKS when midterm follow up scores were compared with preoperative scores. However, no significant correlation between the American knee society FS and OKS in osteoarthritic patients at midterm follow up signifies acceptable outcome may vary between patients and physicians.

CONCLUSION

All patients should be counseled preoperatively to assess their expectations and sensitize them to information regarding the expected functional outcome following TKA in their cultural context.

Osseointegrated prostheses for rehabilitation following amputation : The pioneering Swedish model

The direct attachment of osseointegrated (OI) prostheses to the skeleton avoids the inherent problems of socket suspension. It also provides physiological weight bearing, improved range of motion in the proximal joint, as well as osseoperceptive sensory feedback, enabling better control of the artificial limbs by amputees. The present article briefly reviews the pioneering efforts on extremity osseointegration surgeries in Sweden and the development of the OPRA (Osseointegrated Prostheses for the Rehabilitation of Amputees) program. The standard implant design of the OPRA system and surgical techniques are described as well as the special rehabilitation protocols based on surgical sites. The results of long-term follow-up for transradial, transhumeral, and thumb amputee operations are briefly reported including the prospective study of transfemoral amputees according to OPRA protocol. The importance of refinement on implant designs and surgical techniques based on the biomechanical analysis and early clinical trials is emphasized. Future aspects on osseointegration surgery are briefly described, including novel treatment options using implanted electrodes.

Tibial Base Plate for Total Knee Arthroplasty: Symmetric or Asymmetric?

BACKGROUND

Ideal positioning and best coverage of the tibial base plate are essential in total knee arthroplasty. There are 2 types of tibial base plates: symmetric and asymmetric. The superiority of one to the other is still controversial. The aim of this study was to compare symmetric and asymmetric tibial base plates for total knee arthroplasty in terms of rotational alignment and coverage.

METHODS

The study was conducted on a total of 80 cadaveric tibial bones. Two surgeons were asked to place 20 symmetric (group 1) and 20 asymmetric (group 2) tibial base plates taking care to ensure the best coverage that they were able to determine. Afterwards, the rotational errors and coverage were assessed with reference to the posterior tibial margin and posterior condylar axis on the three-dimensional computed tomography (3D CT) scan. In the second part of the study, the surgeons were asked to place 20 symmetric (group 3) and 20 asymmetric (group 4) base plates taking care to ensure the best rotational alignment. The rotational errors and the areas uncovered or overstuffed after the application were measured on the 3D CT scan.

RESULTS

On the comparison of rotational errors, while there was no significant difference between group 1 and group 2 in terms of coverage (p = 0.624), the mean external rotation error was significantly greater in group 2 (p = 0.034). On the comparison of coverage, while there was no significant difference between group 3 and group 4 in terms of rotation (p = 0.36), the mean ratios of the uncovered tibial surface to the total tibial surface (p = 0.041) and also the overstuffed area to the total base plate surface (p = 0.029) were significantly greater in group 4.

CONCLUSIONS

The determination of correct size and rotation of the tibial component is essential for favorable outcomes of total knee arthroplasty. In this study, the symmetric tibial base plate design was more effective than the asymmetric design in providing the ideal tibial rotation and coverage.

Gluteal Augmentation with Silicone Implants: A New Proposal for Intramuscular Dissection

BACKGROUND

Gluteoplasty has gained notoriety over the last decades, which has motivated the development of various surgical techniques. Nevertheless, the fear of dissection of the intramuscular plane without direct visualization may inhibit learning and development of gluteal augmentation with implants. Moreover, literature detailing the technical steps of intramuscular dissection for the construction of the implant pocket is scarce. This study presents a new approach to intramuscular dissection for gluteal augmentation with silicone implants, a variation of the conventional surgical technique.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of a series of 12 female patients submitted to a variation of the intramuscular dissection technique for gluteal augmentation with silicone implants. Data from patients, implants, follow-up time, postoperative complications, and the degree of patient satisfaction were obtained. This technique follows the principle of alternating spatulas to perform the blunt dissection of the implant pocket.

RESULTS

In this series, the proposed technique is controlled and safe for intramuscular dissection, which can be used for both experienced and training surgeons. This technique is based on well-known anatomical points and references. We observed that the implant was well positioned and covered, the patients were satisfied with the result, and the number of complications was low.

CONCLUSIONS

This variation of the intramuscular dissection technique for gluteal augmentation with silicone implants provides an easily reproducible and safe procedure that involves well-controlled technical steps, especially during dissection of the intramuscular pocket. In this series of patients, training surgeons learned faster, results were satisfactory, and the number of complications was low.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE V

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

In vivo magnetic resonance imaging morphometry of the patella bone in South Indian population

Racial differences exist in the dimensions of structures and the commercially available prostheses are designed based on the Caucasians. In this context, the goal of the present investigation was to determine the gender wise measurements of patella bone in South Indians. The present study included axial magnetic resonance images of the knee joint from 140 South Indian adults (70 males, 70 females; aged between 20–70 years). The angle, width, thickness, lateral facet width, facet thickness, ratio of the lateral facet, the relative thickness and ratio of facet thickness were measured in the patella by using the digital ruler. The statistical analysis was performed by using the SPSS software. The dimensions exhibited statistically highly significant sexual dimorphism (P≤0.001). The mean value was higher in males than females except for the ratio of patellar lateral facet and patellar facet thickness ratio. It was observed that the males exhibit more variability than females in all the measurements of patella except patellar thickness, patellar facet thickness, patellar relative thickness, and patellar facet thickness ratio. The present study of the in vivo morphometry of patella bone from the South Indians can provide a population and gender specific database for the morphometric measurements of the patella. We believe that the data of the present study will be useful to the orthopaedician during the procedures like arthroplasty of the total knee, patellofemoral arthroplasty, resurfacing of patella, and designing the prosthetic implant.

Conservative management of aortic root rupture complicated with cardiac tamponade following transcatheter aortic valve implantation

Aortic root rupture and cardiac tamponade during transcatheter aortic valve implantation is a frightening complication with high mortality rate. A conservative management of this complication could represent an initial strategy, especially in high-risk patients, to avoid emergent cardiac surgery. This conservative management includes: Immediate detection of pericardial effusion by echocardiography, a fast instauration of pericardial drainage, auto-transfusion and anticoagulation reversal. We describe two cases of patients who suffered this complication and were treated successfully with this initial approach.

Testicular prostheses in children: Is earlier better?

INTRODUCTION

The absence of a testis occurs for various reasons in children, but testicular prosthesis implantation in children is uncommon. The optimal time for prosthesis placement is still unclear, and its complication rate has been poorly studied in children.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors of complications in cases of testicular prosthesis implantation in children.

STUDY DESIGN

A monocentric, retrospective review was performed of children implanted with a testicular prosthesis between 2008 and 2014. All implantations were performed through an inguinal incision with a standardized procedure. Children were divided into two groups depending on the interval after orchiectomy: (A) early implantation (delay between surgeries <1 year); and (B) delayed surgeries (delay ≥1 year). Statistical analysis was performed with Student and Fisher tests.

RESULTS

Twenty-six patients (A, 15; B, 11) had a total of 38 testicular prostheses placements. Mean follow-up was 36.2 months. First surgery was performed at the mean age of 11.8 years (range 0-17.9) (A, 14.1; B, 8.1; P = 0.01) and testicular prosthesis implantation at the mean age of 14.7 years (range 9-18) (A, 14.3; B, 14.6) with a mean delay of 36.1 months (A, 1.3; B, 80.3). Indications were mainly spermatic cord torsion (27%), bilateral anorchia (27%), and testicular atrophy after cryptorchidism surgery (19.2%). Complications (10.5%) included two cases of extrusion, one infection and one migration. Patient 1 had a history of acute lymphoblastic leukemia with testicle relapse 2 years after induction therapy. High-dose chemotherapy, total body irradiation and bilateral orchiectomies were performed, and bilateral prostheses were implanted 12 years after the end of chemotherapy. Complications happened 85 days after surgery. Patient 2 was followed-up for a proximal hypospadias. The tunica vaginalis flap, which was used during a redo urethroplasty, lead to testicular atrophy. Thirteen years after the last penile surgery, a testicular prosthesis was placed through an inguinal incision, and extrusion occurred 203 days after surgery. Bacterial cultures of the prostheses were sterile and histological review showed no sign of granuloma or graft rejection. The complication rate was significantly higher if the delay between the two surgeries exceeded 1 year (P = 0.01). Indications of orchiectomy, prior scrotal incision, and prosthesis size were not risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Testicular prosthesis implantation was relatively safe in a pediatric cohort. The complication rate was significantly higher if the delay between the orchiectomy and the prosthetic placement exceeded 1 year. These results suggest that reducing the delay between orchiectomy and prosthesis implantation may lead to fewer complications.

Management of Breast Deformity After Removal of Injectable Polyacrylamide Hydrogel: Retrospective Study of 200 Cases for 7 Years

BACKGROUND

Polyacrylamide hydrogel (PAAG), once used as an injection for breast augmentation, has been banned in the medical field for cosmetic purposes for more than 10 years in China. But a large number of breasts have characteristic deformities due to the gel's feature of erosion. Our aim is to explore a retrospective study on PAAG's long-term effects on women, ensuing breast deformity and the strategy for breast plasticity after removing the gel in our center from 2007 to 2014.

METHODS

From 2007 to 2014, 200 patients, whose breasts were injected with PAAG, underwent the operation to remove the injectable material. Complications were summarized. Ultrasound or MRI was performed before the operation to disclose the general distribution of the gel and the muscle and gland infiltration. According to the gel distribution, muscle and gland infiltration, infection, gel residue, and other factors, the patients were treated, respectively, with or without prosthesis implantation surgery after the removal of the gel. According to the decision about whether or when to undergo prosthesis implantation, the patients were classified into three types: group I-prosthesis implantation at the first stage, group II-prosthesis implantation at the second stage, and group III-only removing the material without prosthesis implantation. The scores of the BREAST-Q program were used to evaluate the preoperative and postoperative differences.

RESULTS

Seventy-seven patients underwent prosthesis implantation at the first stage and 61 patients were operated on by placing the prosthesis at the second stage. A total of 62 patients only underwent the PAAG removal operation. By BREAST-Q evaluation, changes are summarized in Tables 1, 2, and 3 between mean preoperative scores and mean postoperative scores through categories of satisfaction with appearance of breasts, psychosocial wellbeing, sexual wellbeing, and physical wellbeing, in which all categories were presented with statistical significance (p < 0.001). Table 1 Patient demographics General patient data Number Number of patients 200 Age range 25-48 Follow-up period 6-12 months Injection material  Domestic material 84 (42 %)  Imported material 93 (46.5 %)  Domestic + imported 23 (11.5 %) Injection site  Regular hospital 47 (23.5 %)  Clinics 153 (76.5 %) Complication  Inflammation 10 (2 %)  Pain 75 (37.5 %)  Induration 155 (77.5 %)  Shift 50 (25 %)  Deformation 17 (8.5 %)  Bilateral asymmetry 48 (24 %)  Deposition milk 2 (1 %)  Psychological fear 150 (75 %)  Systemic symptoms 34 (17 %)  Single complication 25 (16.97 %)  Two or more complications 160 (80 %)  Preoperative aspiration 48 (24 %) Table 2 Group I-changes in mean preoperative scores and mean postoperative scores Category Preoperatively (n = 77) Postoperatively (n = 77) p Satisfaction with appearance of breasts 18.8 ± 16.2 81.6 ± 13.1 <0.001 Psychosocial wellbeing 39.5 ± 20.2 84.5 ± 19.3 <0.001 Sexual wellbeing 38.7 ± 23.1 77.2 ± 20.5 <0.001 Physical wellbeing 42.4 ± 16.3 81.7 ± 10.5 <0.001 Table 3 Group II-changes in mean preoperative scores and mean postoperative scores Category Preoperatively (n = 61) Postoperatively (n = 61) p Satisfaction with appearance of breasts 19.6 ± 15.3 82.5 ± 11.1 <0.001 Psychosocial wellbeing 38.9 ± 19.3 83.6 ± 20.1 <0.001 Sexual wellbeing 37.6 ± 22.4 79.3 ± 20.4 <0.001 Physical wellbeing 41.3 ± 15.1 82.2 ± 9.9 <0.001 CONCLUSIONS: Timely removal is critical for women who have received the PAAG removal operation. However, the surgery may destroy the shape of the breast. It is recommended that preoperative communication and local tissue condition are guidelines for surgeons to choose conservative or aggressive surgery. A balance must be maintained between removing the gel as much as possible and retaining soft tissue to reshape breasts.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

EVALUATION OF THE KNOWLEDGE ON COST OF ORTHOPEDIC IMPLANTS AMONG ORTHOPEDIC SURGEONS

Objective:

To determine the knowledge of Brazilian Orthopedic Surgeons on the costs of orthopedic surgical devices used in surgical implants.

Methods:

A questionnaire was applied to Brazilian Orthopedic Surgeons during the 46^th Brazilian Congress on Orthopedics and Traumatology.

Results:

Two hundred and one Orthopedic Surgeons completely filled out the questionnaire. The difference between the average prices estimated by the surgeons and the average prices provided by the supplier companies was 47.1%. No differences were found between the orthopedic specialists and other subspecialties on the prices indicated for specific orthopedic implants. However, differences were found among orthopedic surgeons who received visits from representatives of implant companies and those who did not receive those visits on prices indicated for shaver and radiofrequency device. Correlation was found between length of orthopedic experience and prices indicated for shaver and interference screw, and higher the experience time the lower the price indicated by Surgeons for these materials.

Conclusion:

The knowledge of Brazilian Orthopedic Surgeons on the costs of orthopedic implants is precarious. Reduction of cost of orthopedics materials depends on a more effective communication and interaction between doctors, hospitals and supplier companies with solid orientation programs and awareness for physicians about their importance in this scenario.Level of Evidence III, Cross-Sectional Study.

Long-term Surgical Outcomes of the Multi-purpose Conical Porous Synthetic Orbital Implant

PURPOSE

We present clinical results of the use of the multipurpose conical porous synthetic orbital implant (MCOI) in surgical procedures of evisceration, enucleation, and secondary enucleation in ophthalmology patients.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed of 59 eyes in which conical implants were used, including 36 cases of eviscerations, 11 enucleations, and 9 secondary enucleations. In all of the cases, the follow-up period was greater than six months between 2004 and 2013. The results focus on documenting surgical findings, as well as postoperative complications among patients.

RESULTS

Superior sulcus deformities were found in six eyes (10.2% of conical implant patients), and two eyes received additional surgical interventions to correct the deformities (3.4%). Blepharoptosis was found in four eyes (6.8%), two of which received upper eyelid blepharoplasty (3.4%). Fornix shortening was reported in only one eye (1.7%). Forty-one eyes had a satisfactory cosmetic appearance after the final prosthetic fitting of conical implants (69.5%). The most frequent postoperative complication was orbital implant exposure, which seemed to occur when the preoperative status of the conjunctiva, Tenon's capsule, and sclera preservation were poor in the eyes of the patients.

CONCLUSIONS

There was a lower incidence of blepharoptosis and fornix shortening with the MCOI in comparison to spherical implants, while the incidence of orbital implant exposure was similar with the MCOI in comparison to other types of orbital implants. In addition, the MCOI may have advantages with respect to postoperative cosmetic outcomes.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation in a patient with previous mitral valve replacement

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has shown favorable outcomes in patients with severe symptomatic aortic valve stenosis who are at high surgical risk or are unsuitable candidates for open heart surgery. However, concerns exist over treating patients who have previously undergone mitral valve surgery due to the potential interference between the mitral prosthetic valve or ring and the TAVI device. In this case report, we present a patient with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis and previous mechanical mitral valve replacement who was successfully treated with TAVI using a CoreValve.

Intrathoracic saline-filled prosthesis to treat postpneumonectomy syndrome

Postpneumonectomy syndrome is a rare complication following pneumonectomy with its related change in mediastinal configuration. Symptoms range from airway obstruction to esophageal symptoms, leading at times to a persistent requirement for respiratory support. Surgery is often beneficial, which is in the form of placement of a prosthesis, with variable results. We report 2 cases of postpneumonectomy syndrome: one with successful relief, and the other in which the saline-filled prosthesis failed to achieve the desired result.

The First Case of Successful Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Using CoreValve in Korea

Surgical replacement of the aortic valve is the standard therapy for severe aortic valve stenosis. However, it is generally associated with increased mortality and morbidities in older individuals. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a less invasive procedure and has shown similar clinical outcomes as surgical treatment in elderly patients at high risk for conventional surgery. In this report, we describe the first case of TAVI using a CoreValve in Korea. An 84-year-old man with symptomatic severe aortic valve stenosis was successfully treated by transfemoral TAVI. The patient was discharged without any significant complications and remained free of adverse clinical event for a follow-up duration of 6 months.

The first korean patient with severe aortic stenosis and bilateral iliofemoral artery disease treated with transcatheter aortic valve implantation by transsubclavian approach

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is indicated as an alternative treatment modality to surgical aortic valve replacement for high risk patients. The standard retrograde approach through the femoral artery is not feasible in the case of unfavorable iliofemoral anatomy or severe peripheral arterial disease (PAD). However, patients with aortic stenosis (AS) have a higher prevalence of for PAD because both diseases are consequences of atherosclerotic degenerative changes. Transsubclavian, transapical, and direct access to the ascending aorta by thoracotomy are alternative routes for the TAVI procedure. In this report, we present the first Korean patient with symptomatic severe AS and bilateral iliofemoral artery disease who was successfully treated with TAVI using a CoreValve (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN, USA) by transsubclavian approach.