When Is a Two-Stage Surgical Procedure Indicated in the Treatment of Pseudotumors of the Hip? A Retrospective Study of 21 Cases and a Review of the Literature

(1) Background: A pseudotumor of the hip is a sterile, non-neoplastic soft tissue mass associated with total hip arthroplasties. Pseudotumors may mimic soft tissue tumors or infections, and thus a differential diagnosis is crucial, and biopsy is recommended. The purpose of this study was to compare the complications and functional results between one-stage and two-stage procedures. (2) Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 21 patients surgically treated at our institution with "pseudotumors" associated with hip prosthesis (8 male, 13 female with a mean age of 69 years). One-stage revision was performed in 10 cases and two-stage reversion in 10, with excision only in 1 case. Complications were classified as major and minor and functional results assessed using the Harris Hip Score (HHS). (3) Results: Five patients (24%) reported major complications. The survival rate for all complications was 75%. The overall survival rate was 95% at 5 years. The mean HHS ranged from 35 pre-op to 75 post-op, highlighting improved functional results in all cases. We recorded no differences in complications or functional outcomes between the one- and two-stage procedures. (4) Conclusions: In our experience, the two-stage surgical approach is preferable in cases with major bone defects and larger pseudotumor sizes. The use of custom-made 3D-printed prostheses is increasing and is a further reason to prefer two-stage revision.

Functional autonomy and 12-month mortality in older adults with proximal femoral fractures in an orthogeriatric setting: risk factors and gender differences

BACKGROUND

Proximal femur fractures have a negative impact on loss of functional autonomy and mortality.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate functional autonomy and mortality in a group of older adults with hip fractures managed in an orthogeriatric setting 12 months after discharge and to determine if gender affected outcome.

METHODS

In all participants, we assessed clinical history, functional pre-fracture status using activities of daily living (ADL) and in-hospital details. At 12 months after discharge, we evaluated functional status, place of residence, hospital readmissions and mortality.

RESULTS

We studied 361 women and 124 men and we observed a significant reduction in the ADL score at 6 months (1.15 ± 1.58/p < 0.001 in women and 1.45 ± 1.66/p < 0.001 in men). One-year mortality (33.1% in men and 14.7% in women) was associated with pre-fracture ADL score and reduction in ADL at 6 months (HR 0.68/95%, CI 0.48-0.97/p < 0.05 and HR 1.70/95%, CI 1.17-2.48/p < 0.01, respectively) in women, and new hospitalisations at 6 months and polypharmacy in men (HR 1.65/95%, CI 1.07-2.56/p < 0.05 and HR 1.40/95%, CI 1.00-1.96/p = 0.05, respectively) in Cox's regression model.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that functional loss in older adults hospitalised for proximal femur fractures is greatest in the first 6 months after discharge, and this increases the risk of death at 1 year. Cumulative mortality at 12 months is higher in men and appears to be related to polypharmacy and new hospital admissions 6 months after discharge.

Treatment of Distal Radius Fractures with Bridging External Fixator with Optional Percutaneous K-Wires: What Are the Right Indications for Patient Age, Gender, Dominant Limb and Injury Pattern?

The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the medium-term clinical and functional outcomes of patients with closed, displaced, and unstable, simple or complex, intra- and extra-articular distal radius fractures (DRFs) treated with a bridging external fixator (BEF) and optional K-wires (KWs). AO classification was used to differentiate the injuries radiographically. Clinical-functional outcomes were evaluated using the Patient-Rated Wrist and Hand Evaluation Score (PRWHE Score) and the Quick Disabilities of the Arm Shoulder and Hand Score (QuickDASH). A total of 269 dorsally displaced fractures of 202 female (75%) and 67 male subjects (25%) were included, with a mean follow-up of 58.0 months. Seventy-five patients (28%) were treated by additional KWs. No differences were found comparing the two groups of patients (BEF vs. BEF + KWs) regarding age, sex, and fracture side (dominant vs. non-dominant). PRWHE and QuickDASH scores were lower in the BEF + KWs group compared to the BEF group (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0007, respectively). Thus, patients treated with KWs had a better clinical outcome. Beta multivariate regression analysis confirmed that patients of the BEF + KWs group exhibited a better PRWHE score but not a better QuickDASH score. Patients treated by the BEF + KWs with the fracture on the dominant site were characterised by better clinical outcomes. Older patients had a better PRWHE score independently from the treatment. Our findings suggest that the use of BEF for DRFs with optional KWs can be indicated in both young and elderly patients of any gender, independent of limb side and fracture pattern. As the best functional results were achieved in the elderly when KWs were added, the combination of BEF and KWs seems to be mainly indicated for the treatment of DRF, also complex, in the elderly population.

Intramedullary nailing for impending or pathologic fracture of the long bone: titanium vs carbon fiber peek nailing

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty for treatment of proximal humerus complex fractures in elderly: A single institution experience

INTRODUCTION

Treatment of complex proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) in the elderly should provide early mobilization to maintain autonomy and self-care possibility, avoiding further surgery for complications. Nowadays, there is not a gold standard for treatment. Aim of our study was to review our experience with the use of Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty (RTSA) for the treatment of these fractures in the elderly, evaluating complications and functional results.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ninety-one patients older than 65 were treated with RTSA at our Institute between June 2005 and December 2017: there were 14 males and 77 females, with a mean age of 76 years (range 65-87 years). There were 58 fractures (20 Neer 3, 38 Neer 4) and 33 fracture-dislocations (7 Neer 3, 26 Neer 4). Complications were recorded, and functional outcomes were evaluated using the DASH score and Constant score (CS).

RESULTS

Twenty-three complications occurred: 8 cases of scapular notching, 5 neurologic palsies, 4 dislocations, 3 intraoperative diaphyseal fractures, and subclavian artery damage, deep infection, and radiolucent line in one each. No aseptic loosening or breakage was observed. Further surgeries were necessary in 3 cases only, whereas all patients retained their implant at last follow-up. Functional results were satisfactory: mean abduction was 93°, mean flexion was 110°, mean active internal-rotation reached 35°, mean active external-rotation was 25°, mean CS was 54 points and mean DASH score was 45 points.

DISCUSSION

Surgical treatment of complex PHFs should be a "one-shot surgery," especially in the elderly, since further surgeries could compromise patient outcomes and survival. Additional surgery due to complications is less frequent after RTSA than other techniques. A stable reconstruction permitting early mobilization is fundamental in the elderly. Usually, a prolonged immobilization is recommended after ORIF, TSA, and hemiarthroplasty to provide a stable fixation, whereas RTSA allows early mobilization.

CONCLUSIONS

In elderly with inadequate bone stock and needing early recovery of autonomy in daily activities, RTSA effectively treats complex PHFs. The incidence of complications requiring revision surgery is low and functional results are satisfactory and predictable.

A long-term experience with Mutars tumor megaprostheses: analysis of 187 cases

PURPOSE

Modular megaprostheses have widely replaced allografts, as a reconstructive option; however, failures of these devices remain high. Aim of this study was to analyze outcomes, survival of the implants, incidence and types of complications with Mutars modular endoprostheses at long term.

METHODS

Between 2000 and 2019, 187 Mutars prostheses were implanted in two dedicated centers: 72 upper limbs and 115 lower limbs reconstructions. Diagnoses included 107 primary malignant bone or soft tissue tumors, 65 metastases, 8 benign bone tumors and 7 non-oncologic cases. Silver-coated prostheses were used in 118/187 (63%) cases.

RESULTS

At last follow-up, 76.5% of patients had retained their implant. The overall failure rate was 23.5% at a mean of 1.7 years. There were 22 mechanical failures and 22 non-mechanical failures. The overall implant survival to all types of failure was 68% and 52% at 5 and 10 years, respectively. Infection was the most common mode of failure with an incidence of 6.9%. Implant survival to infection was better for silver-coated implants than for standard implants even if with no significant difference (p = 0.56). Functional results were satisfactory in 97% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The overall implant survival at long term was satisfactory with Mutars prostheses. The incidence of complications with Mutars prosthesis is in line with the incidence reported in the literature with other types of tumor prosthesis. The most frequent cause of failure was infection with a lower incidence in silver-coated prostheses; silver coating seems to prevent infection in distal femur and proximal tibia. The silver coating seems to be particularly useful in two-stage revisions with a lower incidence of secondary amputation. In higher risk patients, silver-coated prostheses are the preferable choice for the reduction of the reinfection rate. The functional results of Mutars prostheses were excellent or good in most of cases. The current paper is design to enhance the literature on megaprosthesis in tumor surgery, proven that this system is one of the most used all over the word and one of the best performing.

Double fractures of the femur: a review of 16 patients

BACKGROUND

Double ipsilateral femoral fractures account for 1-9% of femoral fractures. There is no clear advantage between single or double implant osteosynthesis. We present a series of patients with double ipsilateral femoral fractures, to address the challenges in treatment, namely the implants for osteosynthesis and complications of treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively studied 16 patients (7 men, 9 women; mean age, 51 years) treated from January 2015 to December 2018. Motor vehicle accidents were the leading cause of injury. Types of fractures were pertrochanteric and shaft (6), pertrochanteric and distal (2), double shaft (3), neck and shaft (2), neck and distal (1), shaft and distal (1), and triple fracture including a pertrochanteric, shaft and distal (1). In five patients, two different implants were used (plate and screws, cannulated hip screws, femoral nail), whereas in 11 patients a long femoral nail was used.

RESULTS

Fourteen patients experienced union at a mean of 3 months (2-6 months). Two patients experienced nonunion: both had plate and screws osteosynthesis. One patient died 15 days after admission from polytrauma and another patient experienced central venous catheter thrombosis and pneumonia. Surgical complications (2 patients) included a thigh skin necrosis, and external fixator pin tract infection/infected non-union. Weight-bearing was delayed in all patients; full weight-bearing was allowed in 11 patients at 4 months postoperatively, and in four patients at 5 months.

CONCLUSION

Due to the rarity and the difficulty of standardization of double ipsilateral femoral fractures, there is variable information on the optimal osteosynthesis of the fractures and the outcome of the patients. It seems that closed reduction and long hip nailing is the treatment of choice, with few complications.

Risk of translocated soft-tissue sarcoma recurrence using perforator propeller flap: Case report and literature review

Tumor seeding after intra-abdominal and head and neck cancer surgery is a well-known entity. The risk of disseminating cancerous cells during surgery is also described for soft-tissue sarcoma of the extremities. Nonetheless, after reconstructive surgery using flaps, the risk of recurrence at the donor site is extremely rare. Up to this date, the literature describes only three cases, but none of them reported a translocated recurrence after a reconstruction with a propeller flap. Here, we report a case of high-grade pleomorphic sarcoma of the knee, which recurred at the proximal edge of a propeller flap 28 months after the first excision surgery. The reasons for such local recurrences are not clear and previous works have advocated different theories: direct contamination by tumor cells, physical manipulation of the tumor and creation of surgical wounds with tumor supportive properties. Although these particular cases of recurrence are exceedingly rare, certain precautionary meticulous surgical techniques and a thorough preoperative planning are pivotal to avoid the contamination of "clean" areas during the first excision surgery.

Metal Ion Release, Clinical and Radiological Outcomes in Large Diameter Metal-on-Metal Total Hip Arthroplasty at Long-Term Follow-Up

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) with metal-on-metal (MoM) bearings have shown problems of biocompatibility linked to metal ion release at the local level causing an adverse reaction to metal debris (ARMD) and at a systemic level. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical and radiological outcomes, and metal ion concentrations in the blood and urine of patients who underwent THA with the LIMA Met-Met hip system. Patients with ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC) bearings were included as a control group. In this study, 68 patients were enrolled: 34 with MoM THAs and 34 with CoC THAs. Patients were evaluated clinically (Harris Hip Score, SF-36) and radiologically at a median of 7.4 years after surgery. Whole blood and urinary cobalt and chromium levels were also assessed. Both types of implants were comparable in terms of clinical and functional results. Ion levels were significantly higher in the MoM group compared with CoC group 7 years after surgery. No correlations were found between metal ion levels and patient demographics, functional and radiological outcomes, and prosthesis features. Patient monitoring is thus advised to establish if prosthesis revision is necessary, especially in the case of MoM THA.

New concepts in the surgical treatment of actual and impending pathological fractures in metastatic disease

INTRODUCTION

Long bone metastases are a disease of high social importance. The goals of surgical treatment are to relieve pain, maintain or restore joint function, and prevent or treat pathological fractures. "Oligometastases" is a disease with a limited number (3-5) of metastatic lesions in the same body district, where an aggressive treatment can be carried out with "curative" intent. This study aimed to evaluate patients with bone metastases surgically treated to determine how surgical treatment can influence prognosis and quality of life, comparing solitary metastasis, oligometastases, and multiple metastases.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective analysis of 130 patients with long bone metastases surgically treated between October 2015 and August 2019: 40 patients had solitary metastasis; 38 had less than three metastases (oligometastases), and 52 had multiple metastases. Surgery was resection and reconstruction with a cemented prosthesis (95) or nailing (35).

RESULTS

Overall survival was significantly better in patients with solitary metastasis or oligometastases than in those with multiple metastases (p <0.0001). Patients treated with resection and prosthesis had significantly better survival than those treated with nailing (p <0.0001). Implant complications requiring surgical revision occurred in 20 patients treated with prostheses, while no complications occurred in patients treated with nailing.

DISCUSSION

Survival of cancer patients has improved in the last two decades, leading to an increase of diagnosed metastases. Patients with oligometastases have a survival similar to those with a single metastasis. Optimal implants survival curves should stay above the curves of patients survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Since there are no differences in survival, patients with oligometastases should be treated as patients with a solitary lesion, with more aggressive surgery (wide resection and reconstruction with prosthesis). Intramedullary nailing is still indicated in metaphyseal or diaphyseal metastases in patients with advanced disease or poor prognosis when the life expectancy does not overcome the expected survival of the nail, avoiding the need for further surgery.

Midshaft Clavicle Fractures Treated Nonoperatively Using Figure-of-Eight Bandage: Are Fracture Type, Shortening, and Displacement Radiographic Predictors of Failure?

As there are no clear and unique radiographic predictors of healing disturbances for acute midshaft clavicle fractures, their treatment is still controversial. The aim of the study was to evaluate in midshaft clavicle fractures treated nonoperatively if fracture type (FT), shortening, and displacement, assessed before and after figure-of-eight bandage (F8-B) application, could be considered prognostic factors of delayed union and nonunion. One hundred twenty-two adult patients presenting a closed displaced midshaft clavicle fracture, managed nonoperatively with an F8-B, were enrolled. FT, initial shortening (IS), and initial displacement (ID) were radiographically evaluated at diagnosis, and both residual shortening (RS) and displacement (RD) were measured after F8-B application. The patients were followed up 1, 3, 6, and 12 months post-injury. Multivariate statistical analysis was performed. RD should be considered as radiological predictor of sequelae. Further, an RD equal to 104% of clavicle width was identified as an optimal cut-off point to distinguish between healed and unhealed fractures, and 140% between delayed union and nonunion. Our data pointed out the effectiveness of the F8-B in reducing fracture fragments and restoring clavicular length. In midshaft clavicle fractures of adults, fracture comminution and clavicular shortening did not influence bone healing. On the contrary, RD has been shown as the most likely predictor of both delayed union and nonunion.

Human MDSCs derived from the bone marrow maintain their functional ability but have a reduced frequency of induction in the elderly compared to pediatric donors

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are a heterogeneous population of immunosuppressive cells developing from myeloid progenitors, which are enriched in pathological conditions such as cancer, and are known to inhibit the functions of effector T cells. During aging, several changes occur both at the adaptive and innate immune system level, in a process defined as immunoscenescence. In particular, the low-grade inflammation state observed in the elderly appears to affect hematopoiesis. We previously demonstrated that the combination of GM-CSF and G-CSF drives the in vitro generation of bone marrow-derived MDSCs (BM-MDSCs) from precursors present in human bone marrow aspirates of healthy donors, and that these cells are endowed with a strong immune suppressive ability, resembling that of cancer-associated MDSCs. In the present work we investigated BM-MDSCs induction and functional ability in a cohort of pediatric versus elderly donors. To this aim, we analyzed the differences in maturation stages and ability to suppress T cell proliferation. We found that the ex vivo distribution of myeloid progenitors is similar between pediatric and elderly individuals, whereas after cytokine treatment a significant reduction in the more immature compartment is observed in the elderly. Despite the decreased frequency, BM-MDSCs maintain their suppressive capacity in aged donors. Taken together, these results indicate that in vitro induction of MDSCs from the BM is reduced with aging and opens new hypotheses on the role of age-related processes in myelopoiesis.

Infrapatellar Fat Pad Gene Expression and Protein Production in Patients with and without Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common joint disorders. Evidence suggests that the infrapatellar fat pad (IFP) is directly involved in OA pathology. However, a comparison between OA versus non-OA IFP is still missing. Thus, the aim of this study was to compare IFP molecular, adipocytes and extracellular matrix characteristics of patients affected by OA, and patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. We hypothesized that not only inflammation but also changes in adipocytes and extracellular matrix (ECM) composition might be involved in OA pathogenesis. Fifty-three patients were enrolled. IFP biopsies were obtained, evaluating: (a) lymphocytic infiltration and vascularization; (b) adipocytes area and number; (c) adipo-cytokines and extracellular matrix gene expression levels; (d) IL-6 and VEGF protein production; (e) collagen fibers distribution. OA IFP was more inflamed and vascularized compared to ACL IFP. OA IFP adipocytes were larger and numerically lower (1.3-fold) than ACL IFP adipocytes. An increase of gene expression of typical white adipose tissue genes was observed in OA compared to ACL IFP. Collagen-types distribution was different in the OA IFP group compared to controls, possibly explaining the change of the biomechanical characteristics found in OA IFP. Statistical linear models revealed that the adipocyte area correlated with BMI in the OA group. In conclusion, inflammation and fibrotic changes of OA IFP could represent novel therapeutic targets to counteract OA.

COVID-19 strategy in organizing and planning orthopedic surgery in a major orthopedic referral center in an area of Italy severely affected by the pandemic: experience of the Department of Orthopedics, University of Padova

Background

According to the required reorganization of all hospital activities, the recent COVID-19 pandemic had dramatic consequences on the orthopedic world. We think that informing the orthopedic community about the strategy that we adopted both in our hospital and in our Department of Orthopedics could be useful, particularly for those who are facing the pandemic later than Italy.

Methods

Changes were done in our hospital by medical direction to reallocate resources to COVID-19 patients. In the Orthopedic Department, a decrease in the number of beds and surgical activity was stabilized. Since March 13, it has been avoided to perform elective surgery, and since March 16, non-urgent outpatient consultations were abolished. This activity reduction was associated with careful evaluation of staff and patients: extensive periodical swab testing of all healthcare staff and swab testing of all surgical patients were applied.

Results

These restrictions determined an overall reduction of all our surgical activities of 30% compared to 2019. We also had a reduction in outpatient clinic activities and admissions to the orthopedic emergency unit. Extensive swab testing has proven successful: of more than 160 people tested in our building, only three COVID-19 positives were found, and of over more than 200 surgical procedures, only two positive patients were found.

Conclusions

Extensive swab test of all people (even if asymptomatic) and proactive tracing and quarantining of potential COVID-19 positive patients may diminish the virus spread.

Chondrosarcoma of the Chest Wall: A Review of 53 Cases from Two Institutions

BACKGROUND/AIM

Chondrosarcomas (CS) of the chest wall are rare, but present an aggressive biological behavior compared to CS of the extremities. The aims of the present study were to determine factors associated with oncological outcomes as well as complications.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 53 patients (42 primary, 11 recurrent tumors). In total, 39 central CS, 10 peripheral CS, 3 dedifferentiated CS and 1 mesenchymal CS were included. The ribs were most commonly affected (68%). Overall survival and disease-free survival were estimated with Kaplan-Meier analyses and compared with log-rank test.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up was 7 years. Negative margins were achieved in 87% of patients. Thirty patients (57%) remained continuously disease-free (NED), three (5%) NED after treatment of relapse, seven (13%) were alive with disease, twelve (23%) were dead with disease and one of other cause. The 10-year survival rate was 81% and 45% in primary and recurrent tumors, respectively. Survival was significantly affected by tumor stage (p<0.001), local recurrence (p=0.025) and metastases (p=0.002). Six complications (16%) were observed.

CONCLUSION

The outcome is rather poor, especially in patients with local recurrence. Presumably due to a high biological aggressiveness, a stricter definition of surgical margins should be considered for this location.

Symptomatic pseudoarthrosis secondary to a stress fracture of the acromion

Fractures of the acromion are uncommon clinical entities, and stress fractures are even more rare, with few cases reported. Due to their rarity, stress fractures are often misdiagnosed. Here, we report a case of an elderly patient with an acromion stress fracture, which was overlooked, resulting in nonunion followed by the displacement of the distal portion of the acromion. The purpose of this report was to discuss this rare fracture, highlighting the importance of an accurate evaluation of radiological imaging as well as clinical data. (www.actabiomedica.it).

Treatment of pathologic fractures of the proximal femur

BACKGROUND

Metastatic lesions to the proximal femur occur frequently and require special consideration due to the high risk of pathologic fractures. Type of surgery might influence patient survival considering the growing concept of oligometastases. In fact, the use of modular tumor megaprosthesis is increasing in the last decades compared to intramedullary nailing. Aim of this study was to evaluate oncological and functional results of treatment in patients with pathologic or impending fracture of the proximal femur, with patient survival being the primary, complications the secondary, and functional results the tertiary endpoint.

METHODS

Between 2016 and 2017, 40 patients with pathologic fracture (29 cases) or impending fracture according to the Mirels score (11 cases) of the proximal femur, were treated in our Institute and prospectively collected. There were 29 females (72.5%) and 11 males (27.5%), with a mean age at diagnosis of the metastasis of 63.6 years (range 35 to 92 years). Patients were treated due to bone metastases (commonly develop from breast cancer) or hematologic malignancies. Considering number of lesions, 17 patients had less than three bone metastases. Surgical procedures included intramedullary nailing (7 patients), conventional endoprosthesis (4 patients) and modular endoprosthetic replacement (29 patients). Adjuvant treatments included chemotherapy (13 cases), radiation therapy (8 cases) or both (15 cases), and selective arterial embolization (6 pre-op). Oncological results were evaluated considering the survival of patients. Functional results were assessed as pain intensity in VAS score and MSTS score.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up of patients was 10.2 months (range 6-26.3 years). At the latest evaluation, 23 patients were alive with disease, 3 patients were alive without evidence of disease and 14 patients were dead with disease. There was a significant better survival in patients treated with PFR compared to IMN and EPR groups (p = 0.0080). No differences in term of survival were found comparing impending vs actual pathological fracture and oligo vs multiple metastases. After surgery, all patients experienced improvement in quality of life resulting from reduction in pain. Mean MSTS score was 22.4. The overall complications rate was 22.5%. The most frequent complication was dislocation followed by wound dehiscence and deep infections.

CONCLUSION

Modular tumour prosthesis for proximal femur replacement provides good functional outcome, relative low incidence of complications and higher life quality in the medium term. Oncologic results were influenced by type of surgery, biased by the correct indications for resection and nailing. Preoperative general health condition, life expectancy and ambulatory capacity may influence treatment strategy. With the numbers available, the patients with actual pathologic or impending fracture of the proximal femur treated with resection had a significantly higher survival, especially those with metastases from renal carcinoma or multiple myeloma.

Synovial cysts of the hip

Background:

Synovial cysts of the hip are relatively rare lesions comparing to other joints. Patients are usually asymptomatic, but in some cases symptoms such as pain and/or compression of vessels or nerve could be present. Purpose of the study was to define clinical features and optimal management of synovial cyst of the hip joint through an accurate review of the literature.

Methods:

We present three consecutive cases treated with three different therapeutic strategies: surgical excision, wait-and-see and needle aspiration. An accurate review of the literature has been performed to identify patients who had been treated for synovial cyst of the hip.

Results:

Due to the rarity of the disease, there are no significant data in literature supporting the gold standard of treatment. Treatment of the synovial cyst depends on their size, symptoms and comorbidities.

Conclusions:

Most of the Authors recommend surgical treatment for symptomatic synovial cysts and needle aspiration as an option treatment in asymptomatic patients without vessel or nerve compression. In patients that referred symptoms in correspondence with the hip joint, not strictly related with radiograph findings, a CT or MRI examinations should be performed to exclude possible differential diagnosis. (www.actabiomedica.it)

Orthopedic resident's learning curve for arthroscopic subscapularis tendon repair: short-term clinical and radiographic outcomes

BACKGROUND

Arthroscopic subscapularis (SSC) repair is a technically demanding procedure with a long learning curve. As effective completion of resident's practical experience remains controversial, a prospective clinical study was performed to assess the functional and anatomical outcomes of subscapularis (SSC) arthroscopic repair by orthopedic residents. The pathological anatomy of the tears, the surgical approach and the difficulties encountered at the beginning of the learning curve were reported.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between June 2009 and June 2010, 30 patients with rotator cuff tear were preoperatively evaluated with clinical exam, Constant and UCLA scores. Surgery was performed under arthroscopy by a team of three orthopedic surgeons in training. A SSC tear, if present, was recorded and treated. The same clinical exam and functional scores were repeated at minimum 6 months of follow-up. Subscapularis strength recovery and tendon healing were investigated with arthromagnetic resonance imaging.

RESULTS

A SSC tear was observed in 11 cases out of 30 and treated arthroscopically. The clinical scores improved in all patients: the average Constant score increased from 34 ± 14 to 77 ± 11 and the UCLA score from 11 ± 5 to 29 ± 3. The SSC tests were negative in all patients with the exception of one. Tendon healing was observed in 10 out of 11 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Arthroscopic SSC repair performed by educated residents is possible and leads to good clinical and anatomical results. Surgery duration progressively improved as the learning curve advanced.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 2.

Extra-articular shoulder resections: outcomes of 54 patients

BACKGROUND

The survival of patients with tumors around the shoulder treated with extra-articular resection, the rates of reconstructions-related complications, and the function of the shoulder cannot be estimated because of limited available data from mainly small published related series and case reports.

METHODS

We studied 54 patients with tumors around the shoulder treated with extra-articular shoulder resections and proximal humeral megaprosthetic reconstructions from 1985 to 2012. Mean tumor volume was 549 cm³, and the mean length of the proximal humeral resection was 110 mm. Mean follow-up was 7.8 years (range, 3-21 years). We evaluated the outcomes (survival, metastases, recurrences, and function) and the survival and complications of the reconstruction.

RESULTS

Survival of patients with malignant tumors was 47%, 38%, and 35%, at 5, 10, and 20 years, respectively. Rates for metastasis and local recurrence were 60% and 18.5%, respectively. Survival was significantly higher for patients without metastases at diagnosis, tumor volume <549 cm³, and type IV resections. Survival of reconstructions was 56% at 10 years and 48% 20 years. Overall, 19 patients (35.2%) experienced 30 complications (55.5%), the most common being soft tissue failures that required subsequent surgery without, however, implant removal. The mean Musculoskeletal Tumour Society score was 25 points, without any significant difference between the types of extra-articular resections.

CONCLUSION

Tumor stage and volume as well as type of resection are important predictors of survival of patients with malignant tumors around the shoulder. Survival of the reconstructions is satisfactory; nevertheless, the complication rate is high. The Musculoskeletal Tumour Society score is similar with respect to the type of resection.

Management and treatment of femoral neck stress fractures in recreational runners: a report of four cases and review of the literature

Femoral neck stress fractures (FNSFs) in healthy young subjects are uncommon and most prevalent among long-distance runners and military recruits. Women seem to be at higher risk of developing stress fractures because of possible eating disorders followed by amenorrhea and osteoporosis. This case report describes four young and middle-aged, active female recreational runners who developed stress fractures of the femoral neck. In three of them, with a clinical history of persistent pain in the groin region, which worsened during training, early diagnosis by MRI was considered essential in detecting the fractures. The patients were clinically, metabolically and radiographically evaluated; they were then treated and followed-up at our institution. Only one case was treated conservatively, while the others underwent surgical internal fixation using a screw-plate (DHS®). All of them returned to sport physical activity after a recovery period. Regarding the challenging management of FNSFs, our report highlights the importance of groin pain, especially in athletic females, an early diagnosis by MRI, and a proper classification of these injuries for a correct choice of treatment in order to prevent further dislocation and avoid avascular necrosis of the femoral head. (www.actabiomedica.it)

Management and treatment of femoral neck stress fractures in recreational runners: a report of four cases and review of the literature

Femoral neck stress fractures (FNSFs) in healthy young subjects are uncommon and most prevalent among long-distance runners and military recruits. Women seem to be at higher risk of developing stress fractures because of possible eating disorders followed by amenorrhea and osteoporosis. This case report describes four young and middle-aged, active female recreational runners who developed stress fractures of the femoral neck. In three of them, with a clinical history of persistent pain in the groin region, which worsened during training, early diagnosis by MRI was considered essential in detecting the fractures. The patients were clinically, metabolically and radiographically evaluated; they were then treated and followed-up at our institution. Only one case was treated conservatively, while the others underwent surgical internal fixation using a screw-plate (DHS®). All of them returned to sport physical activity after a recovery period. Regarding the challenging management of FNSFs, our report highlights the importance of groin pain, especially in athletic females, an early diagnosis by MRI, and a proper classification of these injuries for a correct choice of treatment in order to prevent further dislocation and avoid avascular necrosis of the femoral head.

Management and treatment of femoral neck stress fractures in recreational runners: a report of four cases and review of the literature

Femoral neck stress fractures (FNSFs) in healthy young subjects are uncommon and most prevalent among long-distance runners and military recruits. Women seem to be at higher risk of developing stress fractures because of possible eating disorders followed by amenorrhea and osteoporosis. This case report describes four young and middle-aged, active female recreational runners who developed stress fractures of the femoral neck. In three of them, with a clinical history of persistent pain in the groin region, which worsened during training, early diagnosis by MRI was considered essential in detecting the fractures. The patients were clinically, metabolically and radiographically evaluated; they were then treated and followed-up at our institution. Only one case was treated conservatively, while the others underwent surgical internal fixation using a screw-plate (DHS®). All of them returned to sport physical activity after a recovery period. Regarding the challenging management of FNSFs, our report highlights the importance of groin pain, especially in athletic females, an early diagnosis by MRI, and a proper classification of these injuries for a correct choice of treatment in order to prevent further dislocation and avoid avascular necrosis of the femoral head.

Chondroblastoma in adult age

PURPOSE

Chondroblastoma (CB) is a rare benign tumor that occurs most commonly in the second decade of life. No studies on CB in adulthood have been reported. Our purposes were to report a single-institution experience on CB in adults and to discuss the clinical and imaging findings, type of treatment, oncologic and functional outcomes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All patients diagnosed and treated for CB from 1981 to 2014 were reviewed. The main inclusion criterion was patients above their 30 years of age at diagnosis. Clinical presentation, imaging, surgical treatment, complications and functional outcome were evaluated. Local recurrences were recorded.

RESULTS

There were 15 males (65%) and 8 females (35%) with a mean age of 40 years (range 30-59 years). Tumor involved the small bones (talus, calcaneus, acromion, cuneiform, metatarsals) in 15 patients (65%) and the long bones in eight patients (35%). Treatment consisted of curettage only (6 cases), curettage plus phenol (13 cases), curettage plus radiotherapy (one patient with vertebral tumor), resection (two patients with CB of the acromion) and chopart amputation (one patient with a metatarsal tumor). At a mean follow-up of 8.4 years (range 3-30 years), twenty patients (87%) remained continuously disease-free, whereas three had local recurrences. None of the patients received chemotherapy.

CONCLUSION

This study confirms that the occurrence and outcome of adult patients with CB are similar with those affecting younger patients. The main difference consists of the involved bones; flat bones and short tubular bones of the foot, especially the talus and calcaneus, are most commonly involved as opposed to long tubular bones.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic study, level IV-1 (case series).

Osteoblastoma of the elbow: analysis of 13 patients and literature review

PURPOSE

To analyze the clinical and radiographic characteristics, treatment, and outcome of patients with elbow osteoblastoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We present 13 patients (7 males and 6 females; mean age, 28 years) diagnosed and treated for an elbow osteoblastoma from 1975 to 2012. Mean follow-up was 29 months (range 12-60 months). Clinical presentation, imaging, surgical treatment, complications, range of elbow motion, and functional outcome were evaluated. The MSTS, DASH, and OXFORD scores were used.

RESULTS

Main symptom was pain (all patients) accompanied by stiffness (8 patients) and swelling or tumefaction (7 patients), with a median duration of symptoms of 32 months (range 6-96 months). Distal humerus was affected in 10 patients, proximal ulna in 2 patients, and proximal radius in one patient. All patients underwent surgical therapy that consisted of curettage of the lesion (7 patients), curettage and bone allografting (3 patients), wide resection (2 patients; total distal humerus and resection of the radial head), and radiofrequency thermal ablation (1 patient). One patient experienced a recurrence after surgical treatment. The mean MSTS score after treatment was 87% (range 50-100%), which corresponds to excellent results.

CONCLUSIONS

Intralesional surgery is successful in tumor control in most patients with osteoblastoma of the elbow. Thermal ablation may be successful for smaller lesions. Most of the patients had a good-to-excellent functional outcome even if they had tumor-related elbow stiffness at diagnosis.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic study, Level IV-1.

Megaprosthesis of the knee in tumor and revision surgery

The introduction of multidisciplinary approach with chemo and radiotherapy, the advances in surgical and the improvements of diagnostic techniques allowed limb salvage surgery in most cases of bone sarcomas instead of amputation. Modular megaprostheses are the most common method of reconstruction after segmental resection of the long bones in the extremities for their availability, immediate fixation, early weight bearing, good function. Despite the advances in materials and implant designs, these systems have an high incidence of complications. Aim of this study was to report the experience on mega-prostheses implanted around the knee in tumor and revision surgery to analyze: the most frequent used current systems, the problems of stems fixation, extensor mechanism reconstructions in proximal tibia resections and the preservation of growth of the lower extremity in children.

Megaprosthesis of the knee in tumor and revision surgery

The introduction of multidisciplinary approach with chemo and radiotherapy, the advances in surgical and the improvements of diagnostic techniques allowed limb salvage surgery in most cases of bone sarcomas instead of amputation. Modular megaprostheses are the most common method of reconstruction after segmental resection of the long bones in the extremities for their availability, immediate fixation, early weight bearing, good function. Despite the advances in materials and implant designs, these systems have an high incidence of complications. Aim of this study was to report the experience on mega-prostheses implanted around the knee in tumor and revision surgery to analyze: the most frequent used current systems, the problems of stems fixation, extensor mechanism reconstructions in proximal tibia resections and the preservation of growth of the lower extremity in children. (www.actabiomedica.it)

Activated T cells sustain myeloid-derived suppressor cell-mediated immune suppression

The expansion of myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), a suppressive population able to hamper the immune response against cancer, correlates with tumor progression and overall survival in several cancer types. We have previously shown that MDSCs can be induced in vitro from precursors present in the bone marrow and observed that these cells are able to actively proliferate in the presence of activated T cells, whose activation level is critical to drive the suppressive activity of MDSCs. Here we investigated at molecular level the mechanisms involved in the interplay between MDSCs and activated T cells. We found that activated T cells secrete IL-10 following interaction with MDSCs which, in turn, activates STAT3 phosphorylation on MDSCs then leading to B7-H1 expression. We also demonstrated that B7-H1⁺ MDSCs are responsible for immune suppression through a mechanism involving ARG-1 and IDO expression. Finally, we show that the expression of ligands B7-H1 and MHC class II both on in vitro-induced MDSCs and on MDSCs in the tumor microenvironment of cancer patients is paralleled by an increased expression of their respective receptors PD-1 and LAG-3 on T cells, two inhibitory molecules associated with T cell dysfunction. These findings highlight key molecules and interactions responsible for the extensive cross-talk between MDSCs and activated T cells that are at the basis of immune suppression.

Perioperative coagulation assessment of patients undergoing major elective orthopedic surgery

Traditional coagulative parameters are of limited use in identifying perioperative coagulopathy occurring in patients undergoing major elective orthopedic surgery (MEOS). The aim of our study was to evaluate the coagulation changes in patients undergoing MEOS and to facilitate an early detection of perioperative coagulopathy in patients experiencing major intraoperative bleeding. We enrolled 40 consecutive patients (M/F 10/30, age range 34-90 years) who underwent MEOS at the Orthopedic Unit of the Padua University Hospital, Italy, between January 2014 and January 2015. Blood samples were obtained at the following time points: T0-pre: 30 min before surgery; T0-post: 30 min after the end of the procedure; T1: morning of the first postoperative day; T2: 7 ± 2 days after surgery. Patients who experienced an intraoperative blood loss ≥250 mL/h were considered as cases. Routine coagulative parameters, thromboelastometry and thrombin generation (TG) profiles were evaluated. At baseline, a significantly lower platelet count and FIBTEM MCF/AUC were observed in patents with excessive bleeding (p < 0.05 and 0.02/0.01, respectively). At T0-post and T1 intervals, cases showed hypocoagulation characterized by a significantly low platelet count (p = 0.001), prolonged CFT INTEM/EXTEM, reduction of alpha-angle and MaxV INTEM/EXTEM, MCF and AUC INTEM/EXTEM/FIBTEM (p < 0.05 in all comparisons). The only TG parameter standing out between study groups was time to peak at T0-pre. A low platelet count and fibrinogen activity were associated with significant intraoperative bleeding in patients undergoing MEOS. Thromboelastometry performed by ROTEM(®) identifies patients with coagulopathy.

The treatment of acute Rockwood type III acromio-clavicular joint dislocations by two different surgical techniques

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE WORK

the treatment of acute type III acromio-clavicular Rockwood dislocations is still a matter of discussion in orthopaedic surgery. The purpose of this study, retrospective and comparative, is to evaluate the long-term results of two different surgical techniques of temporary stabilization using K-wires with and without tension band wiring.

METHODS

one hundred patients, treated from January 2007 and November 2010, were subdivided into two groups according to the surgical method used. They were clinically and radiographically assessed, and the results were compared with those present in the literature.

RESULTS

the patients were clinically and radiologically evaluated with a mean follow-up of 44.7 months (range 25-60 months). According to the Constant Score, the positive results were 87.4% in group A and 90.2% in group B, without significant statistical difference (p&gt;0.05). However, there were numerous complications, especially metal-work mobilization.

CONCLUSIONS

the results that we have obtained, in part disappointing on the short-term, but positive overall and in line with the literature at long-term follow-up, do not clarify which of the two techniques is superior.

Psoas muscle pyogenic abscess in association with infected hip arthroplasty: a rare case of simultaneous bilateral presentation

Simultaneous bilateral presentation of psoas abscess with prosthetic joint involvement is extremely rare. A 68-year-old woman presented to us with bilateral dull aching groin pain of 6 months' duration, which flared up in the past month, associated with pyrexial symptoms. She had undergone bilateral hip replacements in the past with uneventful recovery. MRI showed bilateral psoas muscle collection in communication with the hip joints. Preoperative hip aspirate demonstrated frank pus with positivity on Gram stain and radiographs confirmed prosthetic loosening of bilateral hips. The patient subsequently underwent two-stage revision arthroplasty of both infected hip implants. At 5-year follow-up, the patient remains asymptomatic with good functional outcome and no recurrence on serial MRI.

Treatment of proximal humeral fractures with reverse shoulder arthroplasty in elderly patients

BACKGROUND

Proximal humeral fractures in four or even only three parts, with metaphyseal hinge distances of <8 mm, represent a serious and widely debated problem. Reduction is complex and plating is often instable, especially in elderly patients. Failures, sometimes involving necrosis of the head, are frequent. Hemiarthroplasty has long been used for 3- or 4-part complex fractures, even in young patients, although often with sub-optimal results, due to reabsorption of tuberosities. This complication has partly been overcome with reverse shoulder prostheses which, although more invasive than partial ones, may lead to less disappointing results, even in cases of reabsorption of tuberosities. We have data on a homogeneous series of patients treated with reverse shoulder arthroplasty for proximal fractures, with a maximum follow-up of 10 years. The aim of this study was mainly to identify which cases can be selected for effective treatment and which technical aspects are best to adopt.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

There were 33 patients in this study, mean age 76.6 years (range 54-85). Fractures were classified according to Neer. Surgery was undertaken on average 4.4 days after trauma. The deltopectoral approach was used. Sutures were hooked over the major and lesser tubercles for later reduction and fixation after the prosthesis had been applied. This passage was sometimes not possible in cases of serious degeneration of the rotator cuff. One day after surgery, a shoulder brace providing an abducted angle of 15° was applied for 30 days. Patients were re-assessed with DASH and Constant scores (CS), and the ratio between healthy and operated shoulders was calculated. Physical examination was followed by X-rays, mainly to evaluate and classify any infraglenoid scapular notching according to Nerot.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up was 42.3 months (range 10-121). According to the CS, mean pain was 12.6/15 (range 3-15/15), activities of daily living 16.3/20 (range 8-20/20), ROM 21.8 (range 8-32/40) and power 5.4/25 (range 2-12/25). Total mean CS was 56.4 (range 23-80/100). The mean DASH score was 49.7 (range 32-90). The ratio of the CS parameters between opposite and operated shoulders was on average 72.8 % (range 28-90 %). Long-term complications were eight cases of scapular notching (24.2 %) of which four of grade 2 (12.1 %) and four of grade 1 (12.1 %).

CONCLUSIONS

Total reverse prostheses are more invasive because they also compromise the glenoid surface of the scapula, but they do offer good stability, even in cases of damage to the rotator cuff. Reverse prostheses have great advantages as regards to ROM, allowing functional recovery, which is good in cases with re-insertion of tuberosities, and acceptable in cases when tuberosities are not re-inserted or resorbed. In our cases, the first 3 reverse prostheses lasted 10, 8.3 and 7.3 years, and we believe that they will become increasingly long-lived, so that applying them in cases of complex fractures becomes more feasible. We prefer the deltopectoral approach because it can reduce and stabilize possible intra-operative diaphyseal fractures. Possible scapular notching must be foreseen when inserting the glenosphere. We had eight cases (24.2 %), of which four were Nerot grade 1 and four were grade 2. Applying the Kirschner wire in an infero-anterior position allows the glenosphere to be lowered with a tilt of 10°. Reverse prostheses are suitable for 3- or 4-part complex proximal humeral fractures in patients over 65. Prolonged physiokinesitherapy is essential.

Bone transport using the Ilizarov method: a review of complications in 100 consecutive cases

We present the results of treatment of 100 patients (72 men, 28 women) by the Ilizarov method of bone transport using circular (55) and monolateral external fixators (45). A total of 26 femurs (18 monolateral, 8 circular) and 74 tibias (49 circular, 25 monolateral) was examined. There were no significant differences between the circular fixator and the monolateral fixator with regard to treatment time, complications in the treated bone segments or compliance with the presence of the fixator. The main complications (pseudoarthrosis at bone contact points after transport, insufficient ossification of lengthened bone, knee stiffness) were resolved with further treatment for all patients with the exception of one case which continued with repeated infections. The circular fixator allows for deformity corrections during bone transport but the monolateral fixator is tolerated better by patients, especially in those with femoral defects.

The tantalum screw for treating femoral head necrosis: rationale and results

Femoral head necrosis (FHN) is a progressive pathology due to the failure of blood supply to the proximal femoral epiphysis, with consequent necrosis of the sub-chondral bone and collapse of the articular cartilage and loss of congruity between the head and the acetabulum. Borrowing the biological and mechanical principles from the vascularized fibular graft technique for the femoral neck, the tantalum screws have been introduced. They show an extraordinary porosity, osteoconductivity, biocompatibility and very good osteoinductivity. Vitreous tantalum can be processed to take the form of a screw, with a round medial extremity and a 25 mm threaded lateral extremity that can be inserted into the neck of the femur, thereby supporting the articular cartilage, stimulating the repair process, interrupting the interface between necrotic and healthy tissue and favoring local vascularization. We have drawn up a treatment protocol for early-stage FHN, based on the insertion of a tantalum screw into the femoral neck. The implant has a cylindrical shape, with a 10 mm diameter in the smooth part and 15 mm in the threaded part. It is available in different sizes from 70 to 130 mm, with 5 mm increments. The aim of the study is to describe the clinical and instrumental results of the tantalum screw for FHN. From June 2004 to June 2006 we performed 15 implants. The tantalum screw was inserted with an incision on the trochanteric region with traction and under X-ray control. For the clinical evaluation of the hip, we used the Harris hip score (HHS). For diagnosis and staging we used standard X-rays in two views and/or MRI, using the Steinberg classification (J Bone Joint Surg Br 77:34-41, 1995) and CT. In all cases, the osteonecrosis extended to not more than 30% of the joint surface and the cartilage was intact with no collapse. To assess the results, we compared the pre-operative and the post-operative HHS, calculated the percentage differences between the two. We then compared X-rays, CT scans and MRI before and some time after the operation to assess whether the problem had been addressed, taking into account the intracancellous edema and the possible extension of necrosis. After an average follow-up period of 15.43 +/- 5.41 months, ten implants (seven patients out of ten) were examined and all but one patient showed a marked improvement in HHS (the average increase was 127.9%), with no further progression of the disease. We believe that this procedure can be suitable for young patients with limited first or second stage osteonecrosis. The objective for the foreseeable future is to resolve the pain, improve the quality of life and prevent or at least postpone arthroplasty.

Spontaneous bilateral Achilles tendon rupture in a patient treated with oral levofloxacin

A case of bilateral rupture of the Achilles tendon in a patient treated with levofloxacin for cystitis is reported. A 76-year-old woman suddenly developed painful ankles one day after levofloxacin treatment. Drug therapy was switched to amoxicillin/clavulanate on the fourth day. Sonography revealed a serious condition of tendinosis with complete bilateral full-thickness rupture on day 6. Tendons were both repaired in the same surgical session. Pathological anatomy of the specimens reported fatty tissue lobules with panniculitis and histiocytosis. Ankles were immobilized postoperatively with a plaster cast. Achilles tendon rupture may occur as an adverse side effect of short-term use of levofloxacin, a fluoroquinolone antibiotic. This adverse effect is a rare and poorly understood complication of this antibiotic therapy. A review of the literature is provided.