Randomized Controlled Trials on Platelet-Rich Plasma for Knee Osteoarthritis Poorly Adhere to the Minimum Information for Studies Evaluating Biologics in Orthopaedics (MIBO) Guidelines: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment for knee osteoarthritis has grown exponentially over the past decade; however, its scientific evaluation is highly variable. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons addressed the need for the standardization of orthobiologics studies by publishing the Minimum Information for Studies Evaluating Biologics in Orthopaedics (MIBO) guidelines in May 2017. In total, the MIBO guidelines are divided into 12 categories, encompassing 23 checklist items.

HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to analyze how well randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on PRP interventions for knee osteoarthritis adhered to the MIBO guidelines. We hypothesized that most articles would report <80% of the MIBO criteria.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 1.

METHODS

PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines were used to perform a systematic review in the PubMed/MEDLINE and Web of Science databases. Inclusion criteria included English-language RCTs that assessed PRP interventions for knee osteoarthritis and reported beginning patient enrollment in June 2017 or later. The original 23 MIBO checklist items were separated and modified into a 44-point checklist. Adherence was determined by calculating the total percentage of checklist items that each article adequately and clearly reported from the 44-point checklist.

RESULTS

A total of 25 RCTs (2356 patients) were included in this study. The weighted mean age was 57.7 ± 4.4 years, with 42.9% being male. On average, only 53.1% ± 10.4% (range, 31.8%-77.3%) of the 44-point MIBO checklist items were reported per article. No articles had adherence rates ≥80%, 5 (20.0%) had rates between 60% and 79.9%, and 20 (80.0%) had rates ≤59.9%. Categories fluctuated in adherence, with "Intervention" having the greatest adherence (100.0%) and "Activation" having the lowest (14.0%). Additionally, 4 (33.3%) categories had adherence rates ≥80%, 0 had rates from 60% to 79.9%, and 8 (66.7%) had rates ≤59.9%.

CONCLUSION

The overall mean adherence to MIBO guidelines by RCTs on PRP interventions for knee osteoarthritis was 53.1%. To increase the reproducibility, improve transparency, and assess the treatment efficacy of future PRP studies, reporting of MIBO guidelines should be improved.

Management of Capitellar Osteochondritis Dissecans: A Critical Analysis Review

» Osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum is a localized compromise of bone that may lead to subchondral collapse with articular cartilage damage and loose body formation.» The etiology is multifactorial; proposed mechanisms include repetitive microtrauma, vascular insufficiency, and genetic predisposition.» Diagnosis is based on patient presentation, clinical examination, diagnostic imaging, and intraoperative findings.» Management is dependent on lesion characteristics, with stable lesions amenable to nonoperative treatment and unstable lesions managed with surgical intervention.» Adolescent athletes can expect a return to their preinjury level of activity or competition following indicated surgical intervention.

Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Randomized Controlled Trials Infrequently Report on the Social Determinants of Health Factors of Their Patient Cohorts

PURPOSE

To describe the prevalence of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in orthopaedic sports medicine-related journals reporting on the social determinants of health (SDOH) of their patient cohorts, including factors receiving less attention, such as education level, employment status, insurance status, and socioeconomic status.

METHODS

The PubMed/MEDLINE database was used to search for RCTs between 2020 and 2022 from 3 high-impact orthopaedic sports medicine-related journals: American Journal of Sports Medicine, Arthroscopy, and Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. The following information was extracted from each article: age, sex/gender, body mass index, year published, corresponding author country, and self-reported SDOH factors (race, ethnicity, education level, employment status, insurance status, and socioeconomic status).

RESULTS

A total of 189 articles were analyzed. Articles originated from 34 different countries, with the United States (n = 66) producing the greatest number of articles. Overall, age (n = 186; 98.4%) and sex/gender (n = 184; 97.4%) were the factors most commonly reported, followed by body mass index (n = 112; 59.3%), race (n = 17; 9.0%), ethnicity (n = 10; 5.3%), employment status (n = 9; 4.8%), insurance status (n = 7; 3.7%), and education level (n = 5; 2.6%). Socioeconomic status was not reported in any of the articles analyzed. Articles from the United States report on SDOH factors more frequently than international articles, most notably race (24.2% vs 0.8%, respectively) and ethnicity (15.2% and 0%, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

RCTs from 3 high-impact orthopaedic sports medicine journals infrequently report on SDOH.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Better understanding patient SDOH factors in RCTs is important to help orthopaedic surgeons and other practitioners best apply study results to their patients, as well as help researchers and our field ensure that research is being done transparently with relevance to as many patients as possible.

Responsiveness of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures After Large Knee Articular Cartilage Transplantation: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Cartilage transplantation is commonly used to treat large (>4 cm2) articular cartilage defects of the knee. The 2 most common transplants are osteochondral allograft transplantation and autologous chondrocyte implantation. Several patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) have been used to determine the efficacy of treatment, but it is unknown which measures are the most effective.

PURPOSE

To report the multiple PROMs used after large knee articular cartilage transplantation surgery and to compare the responsiveness between them.

STUDY DESIGN

Meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a systematic search of the PubMed/MEDLINE and Web of Science databases was performed. A total of 181 articles met inclusion criteria. Patient and study characteristics were extracted, including pre- and postoperative means for PROMs. From the articles that met inclusion criteria for responsiveness analysis (2+ PROMs reported, 1-year minimum follow-up, reported pre- and postoperative means and standard deviations; n = 131), the authors compared the responsiveness between PROM instruments using effect size and relative efficiency (RE) if a PROM could be compared with another in ≥10 articles.

RESULTS

A total of 10,015 patients (10,093 knees; mean age, 34.8 years; mean body mass index, 26.1) were included in this study. The mean follow-up time was 58.3 months (range, 1.5-247.2 months), imaging findings were reported in 80 articles (44.2%), patient satisfaction was reported in 39 articles (21.5%), and range of motion was reported in 10 articles (5.5%). There were 58 unique PROM instruments identified, with the most used being the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score (n = 118; 65.2%), followed by Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) Pain (n = 58; 32.0%), KOOS Sport and Recreation (n = 58; 32.0%), KOOS Quality of Life (n = 57; 31.5%), KOOS Activities of Daily Living (n = 57; 31.5%), and KOOS Symptoms (n = 57; 31.5%). Overall, IKDC was found to have the greatest effect size (1.68) and the best responsiveness of the other PROMs, which include KOOS Pain (RE, 1.38), KOOS Symptoms (RE, 3.06), KOOS Activities of Daily Living (RE, 1.65), KOOS Sport and Recreation (RE, 1.44), Lysholm (RE, 1.76), and Tegner (RE, 1.56).

CONCLUSION

The IKDC is the most responsive PROM after large knee articular cartilage transplantation surgery. The IKDC score is recommended for assessing outcomes after cartilage transplantation surgery.

ASES and UCLA Are Responsive Patient-Reported Outcome Measures After Rotator Cuff Repair: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Multiple patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) have been used to assess shoulder function, but it is unknown which are the most effective.

PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS

The purpose of this study was to report the multiple PROMs used after rotator cuff repair (RCR) and to compare the responsiveness between them. It was hypothesized that the Western Ontario Rotator Cuff PROM would be the most responsive and commonly used in patients undergoing RCR.

STUDY DESIGN

Meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) and PRISMA-Searching extension guidelines via PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase (Elsevier), and Web of Science (Clarivate). Patient and study characteristics were extracted. From the studies that met inclusion criteria for responsiveness analysis (≥2 PROMs reported, 1-year minimum follow-up, and pre- and postoperative PROM means and standard deviations reported), the authors compared the responsiveness between PROM instruments using effect size and relative efficiency (RE) if a PROM could be compared with another in ≥10 articles.

RESULTS

A total of 252 studies met inclusion criteria (32,072 patients; mean age, 59.6 years; mean body mass index, 28.7; mean follow-up time, 27.8 months). Range of motion was reported in 131 (52%) studies and imaging findings were reported in 123 (49%) studies. There were 67 PROM instruments identified; the most commonly used were the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon (ASES) (n = 183; 73%), Visual Analog Scale (VAS) (n = 163; 65%), and Constant (n = 118; 47%) scores. The 3 PROMs with the highest effect sizes were the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) (2.51), Western Ontario Rotator Cuff (2.42), and ASES (2.00) scores. Overall, UCLA and ASES scores were the most responsive PROMs. The ASES PROM was more responsive than the VAS (RE, 1.70), Constant (RE, 2.76), Simple Shoulder Test (RE, 1.67), and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (RE, 2.14) scores. The UCLA PROM was more responsive than the ASES (RE, 1.03), VAS (RE, 3.66), Constant (RE, 1.72), and Simple Shoulder Test (RE, 1.66) scores.

CONCLUSION

ASES and UCLA scores were the most responsive PROMs after RCR. The authors recommend widespread adoption of ASES and UCLA scores for clinical and research standardization; however, the UCLA PROM requires in-person range of motion and strength testing, which is a practical limitation and barrier to long-term follow-up.

Case-Based Understanding of the Role of the Scapula in Common Shoulder Pathologies

Scapular dyskinesis is an extremely common component of shoulder pathology, especially in the overhead athlete; despite its prevalence, proper diagnosis and management of scapular disorders remains an enigma for many clinicians. An understanding of the contribution of the scapula to pathomechanics and clinical symptoms is necessary to optimize both surgical and nonsurgical treatment of shoulder disorders. Without correction of scapular dysfunction, even effective management of the pathoanatomy is unlikely to produce optimal results. It is important to examine the role of the scapula in common shoulder pathologies and elucidate a case-based treatment strategy for both surgical and nonsurgical shoulder disorders.

GDF8 inhibition enhances musculoskeletal recovery and mitigates posttraumatic osteoarthritis following joint injury

Musculoskeletal disorders contribute substantially to worldwide disability. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears result in unresolved muscle weakness and posttraumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). Growth differentiation factor 8 (GDF8) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of musculoskeletal degeneration following ACL injury. We investigated GDF8 levels in ACL-injured human skeletal muscle and serum and tested a humanized monoclonal GDF8 antibody against a placebo in a mouse model of PTOA (surgically induced ACL tear). In patients, muscle GDF8 was predictive of atrophy, weakness, and periarticular bone loss 6 months following surgical ACL reconstruction. In mice, GDF8 antibody administration substantially mitigated muscle atrophy, weakness, and fibrosis. GDF8 antibody treatment rescued the skeletal muscle and articular cartilage transcriptomic response to ACL injury and attenuated PTOA severity and deficits in periarticular bone microarchitecture. Furthermore, GDF8 genetic deletion neutralized musculoskeletal deficits in response to ACL injury. Our findings support an opportunity for rapid targeting of GDF8 to enhance functional musculoskeletal recovery and mitigate the severity of PTOA after injury.

Risk Factors Associated With Prolonged Opioid Use After Revision Total Shoulder Arthroplasty

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to determine which preoperative factors are associated with prolonged opioid use after revision total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA).

METHODS

The M157Ortho PearlDiver database was used to identify patients undergoing revision TSA between 2010 and 2021. Opioid use for longer than 1 month after surgery was defined as prolonged opioid use. Postoperative opioid use from 1 to 3 months was independently assessed. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between preoperative patient-related risk factors (age, Charlson Comorbidity Index, sex, depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, opioid use between 12 months to 1 week of surgery, tobacco use, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, osteoporosis, previous myocardial infarction, and chronic ischemic heart disease) with prolonged postoperative opioid use. Odds ratios (OR) and their associated 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for each risk factor.

RESULTS

A total 14,887 patients (mean age = 67.1 years) were included. Most of the patients were female (53.3%), and a large proportion were opioid familiar (44.1%). Three months after revision TSA, older age (OR = 0.96, CI 0.96 to 0.97) and male sex (OR = 0.90, CI 0.81 to 0.99) were associated with a decreased risk of prolonged postoperative opioid usage. Patients with preexisting depression (OR = 1.21, CI 1.08 to 1.35), substance use disorder (OR = 1.47, CI 1.29 to 1.68), opioid use (OR = 16.25, CI 14.27 to 18.57), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (OR = 1.24, CI 1.07 to 1.42) were at an increased risk of prolonged postoperative opioid use.

DISCUSSION

Older age and male sex were associated with a decreased risk of prolonged opioid use after revision TSA. Depression, substance use disorder, opioid familiarity, and COPD were associated with prolonged opioid use after revision TSA.

Association of Osteoarthritis and Functional Limitations With Cognitive Impairment Among Older Adults in the United States

Objective: Given overlapping pathophysiology, this study sought to assess the association between osteoarthritis (OA), functional impairment, and cognitive impairment in the aging population. Methods: The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey was used to identify participants >60 years of age. We analyzed multivariable associations of grouped participants that underwent cognitive function testing using linear and logistic regression, adjusting for sex, age, race, and ethnicity. Results: Of 2776 identified participants representing a population of 50,242,917, 40% did not report OA or functional limitations; 21% had OA but not functional limitations; 15% did not have OA but had functional limitations; 17% had OA and related functional limitations; and 7% had OA and non-arthritic functional limitations. OA was not independently associated with cognitive impairment. Contrarily, functional limitations were associated with cognitive impairment regardless of OA diagnosis. Discussion: Cognitive impairment is not associated with OA, but rather functional limitations, potentially guiding future intervention.

Prevalence and Predictors of Postoperative Depression and Anxiety After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

PURPOSE

Preoperative mood disorders influence postoperative outcomes after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR), but the prevalence and risk factors associated with postoperative depression/anxiety development remain unknown. The purposes of this study were to quantify the prevalence of postoperative diagnoses of depression or anxiety following ACLR in patients under the age of 25 and assess the interplay between patient sex and ACL reoperation on the prevalence of a depression or anxiety diagnosis following ACLR.

METHODS

ACLR patients under the age of 25 years old were identified in the Truven Healthcare Marketscan database. Patients with incomplete coverage +/- one year of the index surgical procedure were excluded. Patients were categorized by the presence of preoperative, postoperative, or no depression/anxiety using the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) codes. We compared patient demographics and reoperation rates following the index ACLR between the depression and anxiety categories. Additionally, logistic regression was fit to assess the interaction between sex and either ipsilateral or contralateral ACL surgery on postoperative depression/anxiety diagnosis.

RESULTS

Of the 42,174 patients, 10.7% had a new depression/anxiety diagnosis after ACLR. Postoperative depression/anxiety was nearly twice as prevalent for females (F: 14.4%, M: 7.6%) despite having similar rates of secondary ACLR (F: 15.5%, M: 13.0%). Those with postoperative depression/anxiety had a considerably greater prevalence of reoperation (18.8%) than those without depression/anxiety (13.7%) and those with pre-existing preoperative depression/anxiety (12.9%). Sex and reoperation were independently associated with postoperative depression/anxiety diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Female sex and secondary ACL surgery are independently associated with an increased prevalence of postoperative depression/anxiety. Nearly one in seven young females are diagnosed with depression/anxiety after ACLR. Similarly, a greater proportion of patients who suffer a secondary ACL surgery are subsequently diagnosed with depression/anxiety. The orthopedic community must be cognizant of the increased risk of postoperative depression/anxiety for females and those who suffer a secondary ACL surgery, and screening for depression/anxiety in these at-risk populations with referrals to mental health professionals may be warranted.

The Top 50 Most Cited Articles on the Medial Patellofemoral Ligament (MPFL): A Bibliometric Analysis

Objectives

To determine which original articles on the topic of the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) have been cited the most in the literature utilizing a bibliometric approach. Secondarily, to determine temporal trends between article types.

Methods

Articles on the topic of the MPFL were identified by utilizing the Web of Science Database. The search yielded 1596 results and the top 50 cited original articles were collected for further analysis. The following information was gathered for all included articles: title, first author's name, journal name, year of publication, impact factor of the journal in 2021, total number of citations of the article, average citations per year (ACY), geographic origin, institutions, research theme, and keywords. Articles were then grouped into one of three categories: cadaveric/anatomic, clinical, and radiologic.

Results

The total number of citations was 10,393. Most were published between the years 2000-2009 (66%) and in the journal, American Journal of Sports Medicine (34%). The mean ACY was 11.73 ± standard deviation 5.86 and the Kawasaki Municipal Hospital was the institution with the most articles included in the top 50 (n = 6, 12%). The top-cited articles focused on 3 themes: cadaveric/anatomic (n = 18, 36%), clinical (n = 25, 50%), and radiologic (n = 7, 14%). Cadaveric/anatomic articles had the highest average number of citations at 271.4 ± 153.9, followed by radiologic (173.3 ± 53.0) and clinical articles (171.8 ± 102.4). Over time, clinical articles were more likely to be included in the top 50 list, compared to cadaveric/anatomic/radiologic articles.

Conclusion

The most impactful MPFL articles relate to cadaveric/anatomic articles; however, over time, clinical articles became more prevalent.

Older Age, Female Sex, Anxiety, Substance Use Disorder, Osteoarthritis, Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy, and Opioid Familiarity Are Risk Factors for Prolonged Opioid Use Following Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction

Purpose

To determine which preoperative factors are associated with prolonged opioid use after medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (MPFLR).

Methods

The M151Ortho PearlDiver database was queried for patients who underwent MPFLR between 2010 and 2020. Inclusion criteria included patients who underwent MPFLR using Current Procedural Terminology codes 27420, 27422, and 27427 and had a patellar instability diagnosis. Prolonged opioid use was defined as opioid use greater than 1 month after surgery. Postoperative opioid use from 1 month to 6 months was assessed. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between patient-related risk factors (age, sex, Charlson Comorbidity Index, anxiety, depression, substance use disorder, osteoarthritis, tibial tubercle osteotomy [TTO], and previous opioid use within 3 months to 1 week of surgery) with prolonged postoperative opioid use. Odds ratios (OR) and their associated 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for each risk factor.

Results

A total of 23,249 patients were included. There was a higher proportion of female patients compared to male patients (67.8% vs 32.2%) in our cohort, as well as a large proportion of patients who had preoperative opioid use (23.9%). In total, 14.3% of patients had a concomitant TTO. Three months post-MPFLR, male patients were at a decreased risk of opioid usage (OR 0.75; CI 0.67-0.83; P ≤ .001). Older age (OR 1.01, CI 1.00-1.01; P ≤ .001), patients with pre-existing anxiety (OR 1.30, CI 1.15-1.47; P ≤ .001), substance use disorder (OR 2.04, CI 1.80-2.31; P ≤ .001), knee osteoarthritis (OR 1.70, CI 1.49-1.94; P ≤ .001), concomitant TTO (OR 1.91, CI 1.67-2.17; P ≤ .001), and opioid familiarity (OR 7.68, CI 6.93-8.52; P ≤ .001) were at a significantly increased risk of postoperative opioid usage.

Conclusions

Older age, female sex, anxiety, substance use disorder, osteoarthritis, tibial tubercle osteotomy, and opioid familiarity are risk factors for prolonged opioid use following MPFLR.

Level of Evidence

Level III, retrospective cohort study.

Comparison of Physical Therapy Utilization and Motion-Related Re-operations Between Isolated Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Multi-Ligament Knee Injuries

The increased prevalence of postoperative arthrofibrosis after multi-ligament knee injuries (MLKI) compared to isolated anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries has been proposed to be due, in part, to patient factors limiting physical therapy utilization. The purpose of this study was to compare demographic factors, pre- and postoperative physical therapy utilization, and the need for motion-restoring surgery between MLKI and ACL-injured patients. Using the PearlDiver Mariner 151 database, two cohorts matched by age and sex were identified using current procedural terminology (CPT) codes and included those age 16 or greater that underwent isolated ACL (n=3801) vs. MLKI reconstruction (n=3801). The number of pre- and postoperative physical therapy visits was recorded, as was the need for motion-restoring surgery (arthroscopic lysis of adhesions or manipulation under anesthesia). Demographic factors, physical therapy utilization, and the prevalence of motion-restoring surgery were compared between the MLKI and ACL groups using t-tests or chi-square tests, as appropriate. A significantly greater proportion of those with MLKI underwent subsequent motion-restoring surgery (MLKI=412/3081 (13.4%) vs. ACL=84/3081 (2.7%), p<0.001; odds ratio = 5.5 (95% CI: 4.3, 7.0), p<0.0001). Following surgery, less than half of those with MLKI that underwent subsequent motion-restoring surgery attended physical therapy, which was significantly lower than those who did not require motion-restoring surgery (p<0.0001). The prevalence of motion-restoring surgery was significantly greater after MLKI when compared to an isolated ACL injury. While the etiology of arthrofibrosis after MLKI is likely complex, the current results suggest that demographic factors and physical therapy utilization are not solely responsible for the increased risk of arthrofibrosis after MLKI.

Spin in the Abstracts of Meta-analyses and Systematic Reviews: Quadriceps Tendon Graft for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Spin is a reporting bias that misrepresents research. Ultimately it can affect surgeon decision making and patient care. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is common, but debate continues over optimal treatment modalities.

PURPOSE

To identify the prevalence of spin in meta-analysis and systematic review abstracts regarding the treatment of ACL injuries with quadriceps tendon graft.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS

Electronic libraries (MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Google Scholar) were searched for meta-analyses and systematic reviews regarding the treatment of ACL tears with quadriceps tendon graft. The 9 most severe types of spin commonly found in abstracts were used as an evaluation tool to assess the articles. Two reviewers each performed a blinded assessment of each article for spin. A third reviewer helped after review was done to address any discrepancies between the original reviewers. Further evaluation included year of publication, number of citations, journal impact factor, and A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR-2) score.

RESULTS

The electronic database search resulted in 986 articles, of which 13 met our inclusion criteria. After review, we found that 53.8% (7/13) of the included articles contained 1 of the 9 most severe forms of spin. Of the 13 articles, 15.4% (n = 2) contained 2 types of spin, and 38.5% (n = 5) contained 1 type of spin. No studies contained ≥3 types of spin. Of the types of spin evaluated, the most prevalent (n = 4; 30.8%) was type 3 ("selective reporting of or overemphasis on efficacy outcomes or analysis favoring the beneficial effect of the experimental intervention"). All studies, regardless of the presence of spin, were found to be low or critically low quality according to the AMSTAR-2 assessment.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated the presence of spin in 53.8% of meta-analysis and systematic review abstracts pertaining to quadriceps tendon graft for ACL reconstruction. Orthopaedic surgeons should learn to recognize spin as they review articles when deciding the treatment course for ACL injuries. Additionally, strict criteria should be considered to reduce the prevalence of spin in orthopaedic literature.

Return to Play and Performance After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in the National Women's Soccer League

Background

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is commonly injured in elite-level female athletes, which usually requires ACL reconstruction (ACLR).

Purpose

To analyze return to play (RTP) and changes in performance of players in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) after ACLR.

Study Design

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods

NWSL players who sustained an ACL tear and underwent surgery between the 2013 and 2020 seasons were identified by multiple online resources. Players were classified as forwards, defenders, midfielders, and goalkeepers. RTP was assessed according to games played, games started, percentage of minutes played, plus/minus net per 90 minutes (a measure of a player's contribution to their team's performance while on the field), goals scored, and assists. A subanalysis was performed based on the median age at the time of the injury (≤24 vs ≥25 years). Nonparametric testing methods were used throughout the analysis.

Results

A total of 30 NWSL athletes were included. Midfielders had the highest percentage of injuries (n = 11; 36.7%), followed by forwards (n = 10; 33.3%). Overall, 27 players returned to the NWSL at a median of 12.1 months (IQR, 10.9-14.3 months), constituting a 90.0% RTP rate. There was a significant decrease in the percentage of minutes played from 1 year before the injury to 1 year after the injury (median, 87.9% [IQR, 80.7%-90.6%] vs 25.1% [IQR, 16.3%-57.2%], respectively; P = .031). Forwards and midfielders had a significant decrease in the number of assists from 1 year before the injury to 1 year after the injury (median, 3.0 [IQR, 1.0-3.0] vs 0.0 [IQR, 0.0-1.0], respectively; P = .037) as well as the number of goals scored when averaging across 2 seasons before the injury to 2 seasons after the injury (median, 3.0 [IQR, 1.5-5.5] vs 1.0 [IQR, 0.5-3.5], respectively; P = .031). On subanalysis, older players started in significantly more games (median, 12.0 [IQR, 3.8-18.5] vs 3.0 [IQR, 0.5-6.0], respectively; P = .048) and had a higher percentage of minutes played (median, 63.0% [IQR, 18.8%-77.3%] vs 14.9% [IQR, 2.0%-21.2%], respectively; P = .046) at 1 year after the injury versus younger players.

Conclusion

There was a 90.0% RTP rate after ACLR in the NWSL. Players who returned to the NWSL had a lower percentage of minutes played in their first year after RTP, with older players starting in more games and having a greater percentage of minutes played. Compared with preinjury performance, forwards and midfielders had a significant decrease in the number of assists at 1 year after the injury as well as the number of goals scored at 2 years after the injury.

Epidemiological analysis of pediatric baseball and softball concussions in United States emergency departments

PURPOSE

To evaluate the epidemiology of concussions in pediatric baseball and softball players. We hypothesized that head-to-ball injuries would be the most common cause of concussions.

METHODS

The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) database was used to gather data. Concussions occurring during baseball and softball participation in pediatric patients (4-17 years old) from 2012 to 2021 was gathered. Concussion mechanisms were grouped into 5 categories: head-to-player, head-to-ball, head-to-surface (ground, walls, railings), head-to-bat, and unknown. Linear regression models were used to assess changes in yearly concussion rates over the study period. Results from these models were reported using parameter estimates and the estimated Pearson correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

A weighted total of 54,978 baseball and softball related concussion injuries were analyzed. The average weighted age of our cohort at the time of injury was 13.1 years, with 54.1% (n = 29,761) of concussions occurring in males. The national estimated incidence of concussion injuries decreased non-significantly over the study period (slope estimate = -311 concussions/year, r = -0.625, p-value = 0.054). The majority of weighted national estimate concussions were due to head-to-ball injuries (n = 34,650; 63.0%), followed by head-to-player (n = 8501; 15.5%), head-to-surface (n = 5347; 9.7%), and head-to-bat (n = 5089; 9.3%). On sub-analysis, individuals were grouped into 3 age brackets: 4-8, 9-13, and 14-17 years. The most common mechanism of concussions in children of all ages was head-to-ball. The incidence of head-to-player and head-to-surface injuries increased throughout each age group, while head-to-bat decreased.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of concussions in pediatric baseball and softball athletes has been decreasing non-significantly over our 10-year study period. The most common mechanism of concussions in our study was head-to-ball injuries.

Leveraging Insurance Claims Data to Identify Risk Factors for Posttraumatic Osteoarthritis After Multiligament Knee Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

The incidence of subsequent posttraumatic osteoarthritis (OA) diagnosis after surgery and the associated risk factors have been well reported after single-ligament anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction; however, to date, the incidence of posttraumatic OA for those who have experienced multiligament knee injury (MLKI) has been reported only in relatively small, single-center studies.

PURPOSE

To compare the incidence of OA diagnoses between patients with ACL injury versus patients with MLKI and to identify risk factors for OA diagnosis after MLKI.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

This study used the PearlDiver Mariner database, which contains insurance claims information on >151 million orthopaedic patients. We identified 2 cohorts for this study by using Current Procedural Terminology codes. The cohorts included patients between the ages of 16 and 60 who underwent either isolated ACL reconstruction (n = 114,282) or MLKI reconstruction (n = 3325) between July 1, 2010, and August 30, 2016. MLKI reconstruction was operationally defined as ACL reconstruction plus concurrent surgical treatment of ≥1 additional ligaments. Demographic factors, concomitant meniscal and cartilage procedures, and subsequent reoperation to restore motion were recorded, as was the incidence of knee OA diagnosis within 5 years of the index surgical procedure. OA incidence and demographic and surgical factors were compared (1) between ACL and MLKI groups and (2) between patients with MLKI either with or without OA diagnosis.

RESULTS

A significantly greater proportion of patients with MLKI were diagnosed with knee OA within 5 years of surgery (MLKI = 299/3325 [9.0%] vs ACL = 6955/114,282 [6.1%]; P < .0001) (odds ratio [OR], 1.52; 95% CI, 1.35-1.72; P < .001). Factors associated with increased odds of OA diagnosis after MLKI included age ≥30 years (OR, 5.90), reoperation to restore motion (OR, 2.54), obesity (OR, 1.96), mood disorder diagnoses (OR, 1.85), partial meniscectomy (OR, 1.85), and tobacco use (OR, 1.72). Concomitant meniscal repair was protective against OA diagnosis (OR, 0.06).

CONCLUSION

OA incidence was greater after MLKI reconstruction than after isolated ACL reconstruction. Potentially modifiable risk factors for OA after MLKI were identified and include obesity, tobacco use, depression, and the need for motion-restoring surgery.

YouTube Is a Poor-Quality Source for Patient Information Regarding Patellar Dislocations

Purpose

To evaluate the content and quality of YouTube videos concerning patellar dislocations.

Methods

"Patellar dislocation" and "kneecap dislocation" were searched on the YouTube library. The Uniform Resource Locator of the first 25 suggested videos was extracted, for a total of 50 videos. The following variables were collected for each video: number of views, duration in minutes, video source/uploader, content type, days since upload, view ratio (views/day), and number of likes. Video source/uploader was categorized as academic, physician, nonphysician, medical source, patient, commercial, and other. The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), Global Quality Scale (GQS), Patellar Dislocation Specific Score (PDSS), and DISCERN scores were used to assess each video. A series of linear regression models were used to explore relationships between each of these scores and the aforementioned variables.

Results

The median video length was 4.11 minutes (interquartile range 2.07-6.03, range 0.31-53.56), and the total number of views for all 50 videos was 3,697,587 views. The mean overall JAMA benchmark score ± standard deviation was 2.56 ± 0.64, GQS: 3.54 ± 1.05, total PDSS: 5.76 ± 3.42. Physicians were the most common video source/uploader (42%). Academic sources had the greatest mean JAMA benchmark score (3.20), whereas nonphysician and physician sources had the greatest mean GQS scores (4.09 and 3.95, respectively). Videos uploaded by physicians had the greatest PDSS scores (7.5).

Conclusions

The overall transparency, reliability, and content quality of YouTube videos on patellar dislocation measured by the JAMA benchmark score and PDSS, respectively, are poor. Additionally, the overall educational and video quality, as assessed by the GQS, was intermediate.

Clinical Relevance

It is important to understand the quality of information patients receive on YouTube so providers can guide patients to greater-quality sources.

Increased Effusion Synovitis for Those With a Dysregulated Inflammatory Response After an Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury

Introduction The progression to posttraumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) after an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is likely multifactorial, involving biological, mechanical, and psychosocial factors. Following acute joint trauma, there appears to be a subset of patients that demonstrate a dysregulated inflammatory response. This pro-inflammatory phenotype, or "Inflamma-type," is characterized by an amplified pro-inflammatory response combined with a lack of attendant anti-inflammatory response and has been observed following both an ACL injury and an intra-articular fracture. The aims of this study were to: 1) compare magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-measured effusion synovitis between those with vs. without a dysregulated inflammatory response, and 2) assess the correlations between effusion synovitis and synovial fluid concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines, degradative enzymes, and synovial fluid biomarkers of cartilage degradation. Methods A cluster analysis was previously performed with synovial fluid concentrations of biomarkers of inflammation and cartilage degradation from 35 patients with acute ACL injuries. Patients were then categorized into two groups: a pro-inflammatory phenotype ("Inflamma-type") and those with a more normal inflammatory response to injury (NORM). Effusion synovitis measured from each patient's preoperative clinical MRI scan was compared between the Inflamma-type and NORM groups using an independent, two-tailed t-test. In addition, Spearman's rho non-parametric correlations were calculated to evaluate the relationship between effusion synovitis and each of the synovial fluid concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines, degradative enzymes, and biomarkers of cartilage degradation and bony remodeling. Results Effusion synovitis was significantly greater for the Inflamma-type (10.9±3.8 mm) than the NORM group (7.4±4.4 mm, p=0.04, Cohen's d=0.82). Effusion synovitis significantly correlated with matrix metalloproteinase-3 (rho=0.63, p<0.001), matrix metalloproteinase-1 (rho=0.50, p=0.003), and sulfated glycosaminoglycan (rho=0.42, p=0.01). No other significant correlations were present. Conclusion Effusion synovitis was significantly greater for those that demonstrated a dysregulated inflammatory response after acute ACL injury than those with a more normal response to injury. Effusion synovitis was also found to significantly correlate with synovial fluid concentrations of degradative enzymes and a biomarker of early cartilage degradation. Future work is needed to determine if non-invasive methods, such as MRI or ultrasound, may accurately identify patients within this pro-inflammatory phenotype and whether this subset is more prone to more rapid PTOA changes after injury.

Return to Play, Performance, and Economic Analysis of National Football League Players After Lisfranc Injury

Background

A Lisfranc injury can occur to either the ligament or bone, which causes instability when attempting to perform strength and balance maneuvers.

Purpose/Hypothesis

The study's aims were to (1) analyze the return-to-play (RTP) rate and performance level of players in the National Football League (NFL) after Lisfranc injury and (2) determine the economic and financial impact of Lisfranc injuries to the NFL. We hypothesized that there would be a low RTP rate following Lisfranc injury in the NFL.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

Multiple online public records were used to identify NFL players with Lisfranc injuries between the 2009 and 2020 seasons. Players were assessed according to their RTP statistics: snap count, approximate value (AV), games played, and games started. Nonparametric methods were used to compare player statistics before and after injury. Also, player salaries while injured were calculated (in 2022 US dollars after adjusting for inflation) to approximate economic loss for those players who returned to play.

Results

A total of 33 NFL athletes sustained a Lisfranc injury during the study period. Most Lisfranc injuries were experienced by offensive linemen (n = 8; 24.2%), followed by running backs (n = 7; 21.2%). Overall 27 players (81.8%) returned to play after injury at a median of 11.0 months (IQR, 10.2-11.8 months). There were no significant differences between pre- and postinjury snap counts or number of games played and started. In terms of player performance, there was a statistically significant decrease in AV at 1 year postinjury (median [IQR], 6.0 [4.0-10.0] preinjury vs 5.0 [2.5-7.5] postinjury; P = .022). The overall cost of recovery amounted to $104.7 million, with quarterbacks (n = 4) accounting for the greatest cost at $32.6 million. The next 2 most expensive positions were offensive and defensive linemen (n = 5 each) at $19.4 million each.

Conclusion

Our results did not support the hypothesis, as the RTP rate for NFL athletes sustaining Lisfranc injuries was 81.8%. This injury was associated with a significant decrease in AV 1 year postinjury. In terms of economic impact, quarterbacks accounted for almost one-third of expenses while constituting only 14.8% of injuries.

Assessment of Video Quality and Reliability of YouTube Videos Regarding Meniscus Tear Rehabilitation

INTRODUCTION

YouTube is an open-source platform where creators can record and upload videos for others to see. As the popularity of YouTube increases, it is being increasingly used for healthcare-related information. However, with the relative ease of uploading videos, the content quality of individual videos is not regulated. This study aimed to assess and analyze the content quality of YouTube videos concerning meniscus tear rehabilitation. We hypothesized that most videos would be of low quality.

METHODS

The keywords "meniscus tear treatment," "meniscus tear recovery," "meniscus tear physical therapy," and "meniscus tear rehabilitation" were used for searching videos on YouTube. A total of 50 videos was analyzed in this study that related to meniscal rehabilitation, grouped into one of four categories: non-physician professionals (physical therapists and chiropractors) (n=28), physicians (with or without academic affiliation) (n=5), non-academic healthcare-related websites (n=10), and non-professional individuals (n=7). Videos were then assessed by two independent authors using three scoring systems, which included the Global Quality Scale (GQS), modified DISCERN, and Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) scores. The number of likes, comments, video length, and views were collected for each video. Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to compare quality scores and video analytics.

RESULTS

The overall median GQS, modified DISCERN, and JAMA scores were 3 (interquartile range (IQR): 2-3), 2 (IQR: 2-2), and 2 (IQR: 2-2), respectively. Sorted by GQS scores, 20 videos were of low quality (40%), 21 were intermediate (42%), and nine were of high quality (18%). Non-physician professionals produced 56% (28 of 50) of the videos assessed, with physical therapists constituting 86% (24 of 28) of this category. The median duration of each video was 6:54 (IQR: 3:59-10:50) minutes, views was 42,262 (IQR: 12,373-306,491), and likes was 877 (IQR: 239-4,850). Kruskal-Wallis testing showed a significant difference between JAMA scores, likes, and video length duration between video categories (p<0.028).

CONCLUSION

The overall median reliability of YouTube videos on meniscus tear rehabilitation measured by JAMA and modified DISCERN scores was low. The overall median video quality, as assessed by GQS scores, was intermediate. Video quality was highly variable, with fewer than 20% meeting high-quality standards. As a result, patients are often viewing lower quality videos when researching their condition online.

Periostin regulation and cartilage degradation early after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

OBJECTIVE AND DESIGN

The purpose of this study was to explore pathological processes during the first 4 weeks after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR).

SUBJECTS

Sixteen ACL-injured patients (8 females/8 males, mean age = 19.1, mean BMI = 28.6).

METHODS

Arthrocentesis was performed 1 and 4 weeks after ACLR. Proteins in the synovial fluid were identified using nanoLC-ESI-MS/MS. Differentially up- or down-regulated proteins were identified and quantified, and a pathway analysis was performed. All identified proteins were mapped into a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, and networks of PPIs with a combined score > 0.9 were then visualized.

RESULTS

Seven pathways were upregulated after ACLR: PI3K-AKT signaling pathway, extracellular matrix (ECM)-receptor interaction, focal adhesion, protein digestion and absorption, ameobiasis, and platelet activation. Network analyses identified 8 proteins that were differentially upregulated with strong PPI interactions (periostin and 7 collagen-related proteins). Increases in periostin moderately correlated with increases in a synovial fluid biomarker of type II cartilage degradation (ρ = 0.51, p = 0.06).

CONCLUSION

Pro-inflammatory pathways and periostin were upregulated after ACLR. Periostin demonstrated strong network connections with markers of collagen breakdown, and future work is needed to determine whether periostin may offer a biomarker of early cartilage degradation after ACLR and/or play an active role in early post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) progression.

Epidemiological analysis of concussions in youth ice hockey players: A national emergency room database study

PURPOSE

To evaluate the epidemiology of concussions in youth ice hockey players.

METHODS

The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) database was used to gather data. Concussions occurring during ice hockey participation in youth patients (4-21 years old) from 2012 to 2021 was gathered. Concussion mechanisms were grouped into 7 categories: head-to-player, head-to-puck, head-to-ice, head-to-board/glass, head-to-stick, head-to-goal post, and unknown. Hospitalization rates were also tabulated. Linear regression models were used to assess changes in yearly concussion and hospitalization rates over the study period. Results from these models were reported using parameter estimates [with 95% confidence intervals (CI)] and the estimated Pearson correlation coefficient. Additionally, logistic regression was used to model the risk of hospitalization across the different cause categories.

RESULTS

A total of 819 ice hockey related concussions were analyzed between 2012 and 2021. The average age of our cohort was 13.4 years, with 89.3% (n = 731) of concussions occurring in males. The incidence of head-to-ice, head-to-board/glass, head-to-player, and head-to-puck concussion mechanisms decreased significantly over the study period (slope estimate = -2.1 concussions/year [CI: (-3.9, -0.2)], r = -0.675, p = 0.032), (slope estimate = -2.7 concussions/year [CI: (-4.3, -1.2)], r = -0.816, p = 0.004), (slope estimate = -2.2 concussions/year [CI: (-3.4, -1.0)], r = -0.832, p = 0.003), and (slope estimate = -0.4 concussions/year [CI: (-0.62, -0.09)], r = -0.768, p = 0.016), respectively. Majority of patients were discharged from the emergency department (ED) to their home, as only 20 people (2.4%) were hospitalized over our study period. The majority of concussions were due to head-to-ice (n = 285, 34.8%), followed by head-to-board/glass (n = 217, 26.5%) and head-to-player (n = 207, 25.3%). The most common cause for hospitalizations due to concussions was head-to-board/glass (n = 7, 35%), followed by head-to-player (n = 6, 30%) and head-to-ice (n = 5, 25%).

CONCLUSION

The most common mechanism of youth ice hockey concussions was head-to-ice in our 10-year study period, while head-to-board/glass was the most common cause of hospitalizations. IRB: This project did not require review by the institutional review board.

Injury rates in the National Football League during the 2020 COVID-19 season

OBJECTIVES

The National Football League (NFL) altered the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in canceled preseason games and a dynamic regular season schedule to accommodate for canceled games. The purpose of this study was to evaluate if the disrupted training and preseason schedule lead to increased injury rates as seen in other professional sports. We hypothesized that the overall injury rate would be higher in the 2020 season compared to the 2018-2019 seasons and that this increase will affect all body regions equally.

METHODS

Publicly released NFL weekly injury reports were queried to identify players listed as out or placed on the injured reserve for at least one game in the 2018-2020 seasons. Injuries were categorized into upper extremity, lower extremity, spine/core, head, illness, not injury related and undisclosed injuries. Incidents per 1000 athlete exposures were calculated for the prior two seasons (2018-2019) and for the 2020 season separately. Percentage of injuries occurring in each position was calculated separately for the pre-COVID-19 (2018 and 2019) and post-COVID-19 (2020) cohorts. Incidence rate ratios (IRR) and confidence intervals were used to compare injury rates in 2018-2019 versus 2020. The z-test for proportions was used to determine significant differences between injury incidences.

RESULTS

The overall incidence rate per 1000 athlete exposures in 2020 was not significantly different compared to pre-COVID-19 seasons (21.6 versus 23.1, IRR 0.94, 95% CI: 0.9-1.0 p > 0.999). The proportion of injuries by position did not change before and after COVID-19 either (p > 0.999). Out listings due to illness were significantly increased during the 2020 season (0.8 versus 0.3, IRR 2.8, 95% CI: 1.4-5.2, p = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

The incidence of NFL injuries did not significantly change in 2020. The distribution of injuries did not change with respect to position.

Human synovial fluid interleukin-6, but not type II collagen breakdown, positively correlated with pain after anterior cruciate ligament injury and reconstruction

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury initiates a biochemical cascade thought to contribute to the onset and progression of posttraumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). Interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß), IL-6, and C-telopeptide fragments of type II collagen (CTX-II) are implicated in joint inflammation and cartilage degradation following ACL injury; however, their association with pain is still being explored. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the associations between synovial fluid concentrations of IL-1ß, IL-6, and CTX-II with pain following ACL injury and reconstruction. We hypothesized that greater IL-1ß, IL-6, and CTX-II would correlate with greater Pain Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores. This was a secondary analysis of 23 patients (mean age = 18.4 years, BMI = 27.4, 13 females/10 males) with acute ACL tears who participated in a pilot randomized trial. Synovial fluid and VAS scores were collected on the day of initial presentation, at ACL reconstruction, and 1 and 4 weeks after surgery. Synovial fluid concentrations of IL-1ß, IL-6, and CTX-II were assessed using enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assays, and repeated measures correlations were used to assess the relationships between pain and synovial IL-1ß, IL-6, or CTX-II after ACL injury and reconstruction. Pain was positively correlated with synovial fluid IL-6 concentrations (r = 0.52, p < 0.001); however, pain was inversely correlated with CTX-II (r = -0.39, p = 0.002). IL-1ß had no significant correlation with pain. Statement of clinical relevance: PTOA has been described as a "silent killer" and these results suggest that early PTOA may have pro-inflammatory pathways that are not primarily associated with pain but still lead to progressive cartilage loss.

Synovial Fluid Inflammatory Profiles did not Differ between Isolated Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Multi-ligament Knee Injuries

Objective and design

The purpose of this study was to compare synovial concentrations of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines between multiple-ligament knee injured (MLKI) and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)-injured patients.

Subjects

14 patients with MLKI and 10 patients with isolated ACL injury.

Methods

Synovial fluid was aspirated from the operative knee at the time of surgery and the concentrations of pro- and anti-inflammatory markers in the synovial fluid were determined. Structures injured, the time between injury and surgery, and demographic factors were collected. Linear regressions were used to determine the association between injury pattern and synovial inflammatory markers when controlling for age, BMI, and time between injury and surgery.

Results

When adjusting for group differences in age, BMI and the time between injury and surgery, no group differences were detected (interferon gamma (p = 0.11), interleukin-1beta (IL-1b, p = 0.35), IL-2 (p = 0.28), IL-4 (p = 0.64), IL-6 (p = 0.37), IL-8 (p = 0.54), IL-10 (p = 0.25), IL-12p70 (p = 0.81), IL-13 (p = 0.31), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (p = 0.90)).

Conclusion

Synovial fluid inflammatory markers did not differ between MLKI and isolated ACL injuries. MLKIs have a greater prevalence of postoperative arthrofibrosis when compared to isolated ACL injuries; however, this may be due in part to factors other than the inflammatory status of the joint.

Injury rates remained elevated in the second National Football League season after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to compare the injury incidence of the 2018-2019 and 2020 National Football League (NFL) seasons with the 2021 season.

Methods

Publicly released NFL weekly injury reports were queried to identify players listed as "out" or placed on injured reserve (IR) for at least one game in the 2018-2021 seasons. Injuries were then categorized into upper extremity, lower extremity, spine/core, and head. Incidence per 1,000 athlete exposures were calculated for each season and proportions of injuries by position were calculated separately for the 2018-2019, 2020, and 2021 cohorts. Incidence rate ratios (IRR) were used to compare injury rates.

Results

Overall injury incidence in the 2021 NFL season increased compared to the pre-COVID-19 seasons (2018-2019) in all anatomical zones except for the upper extremity. [28.70 vs. 23.09 per 1,000 exposures, IRR 1.24 (95% CI: 1.14-1.36); p< 0.001]. The injury rate remained elevated and further increased in 2021 compared to the 2020 season for all anatomical zones other than the spine/core [28.70 vs. 21.64 per 1,000 exposures, IRR 1.33 (1.19-1.47); p< 0.001]. No significant difference existed during the early season (weeks 1-4); however, injury rates after week 4 increased in 2021 compared to both the 2018-2019 and 2020 seasons.

Conclusion

The injury incidence in the 2021 season remained elevated and increased further compared to both the 2018-2019 and 2020 seasons. Traumatic injuries resulting in missed games increased despite return to a more traditional season since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. The injury rates significantly increased in mid- to late season.

Level of Evidence

III, cross-sectional study.

Increased Snap Counts Were Not Seen Prior to Lisfranc Injuries in the National Football League

Introduction Athletes in the National Football League (NFL) subject their bodies to a great deal of physical strain, which places them at an increased risk for injury. The purpose of this study was to determine if there was an increase in snap counts played during a player's injury game or season that may have contributed to an increased risk of sustaining a Lisfranc injury in the NFL. We hypothesized that players who play more snaps than they have in seasons prior will be at an increased risk of injury. Methods NFL players with Lisfranc injuries were identified by cross-referencing multiple online resources. Information on a player's position, draft year, draft round selection, height, weight, snap counts, approximate value (AV), quarter of injury (first, second, third, fourth), quarter of a season (games one through four, five through eight, nine through twelve, thirteen through sixteen), and injured foot laterality was collected. A control group of players without a Lisfranc injury was then selected to compare performance data with our injured cohort that returned to play. Results Twenty-one NFL players, who met inclusion criteria, sustained a Lisfranc injury between the years 2013 and 2021. Players played significantly fewer snaps before sustaining a Lisfranc injury compared to their season average (33.9 ± 21.9 vs. 50.3 ± 15.8; p=<0.001), but when comparing the number of snaps played per game in their injury year with the number of snaps played per game over their career before injury, there was no significant difference (50.3 ± 15.8 vs. 45.7 ± 17.1; p=0.20). Most injuries occurred in either the first (42.9%) or second (33.3%) quarter of a regular season (games one through eight). During a game, the timing of most injuries was either the second (38.1%) or fourth (33.3%) quarter. There was no significant difference between injured players and controls post-injury between the number of average seasons played, AV, and snaps played per game. Conclusion Increased snap counts were not seen prior to Lisfranc injuries in the NFL.

Balancing after randomization in orthopedic trials: Are we even or even paying attention?

A cornerstone of evidence-based medicine is the randomized controlled trial (RCT). While randomization seeks to balance study groups on potential confounders, this is not always achieved. Especially in orthopedic research where RCTs are often of modest size, imbalances can exist and may be a significant issue. We sought to describe whether orthopedic RCTs assess balancing between study groups, use statistical hypothesis testing to compare baseline characteristics between groups, and have balanced baseline characteristics between groups. All RCTs from four leading orthopedic journals published between July 2019 and June 2020 were identified and those reporting original trial results reviewed for discussion of balancing, use of statistical significance testing to compare baseline characteristics, and patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) at baseline. Standardized mean differences of baseline PROMs were calculated to assess balancing. Of 86 orthopedic RCTs reviewed, 59 (69%) assessed balancing and 50 (58%) used statistical significance testing to compare baseline characteristics. Of 74 articles specifying a primary outcome, 33 (45%) used a PROM with 23 (70%) reporting baseline PROM values. Of these articles, 17 (74%) had a difference of less than 0.25 standard deviations (SDs) between groups, 4 (17%) had a difference of between 0.25 and 0.50 SDs, and 3 (13%) had a difference greater than 0.5 SDs. Orthopedic RCTs usually assess balancing after randomization though there is room for improvement with over half of articles using hypothesis testing to assess baseline differences as opposed to a measure of the magnitude of the difference.

An Investigation of Google Searches for Knee Osteoarthritis and Stem Cell Therapy: What are Patients Searching Online?

Background

Stem cell therapies have emerged as a potential treatment for osteoarthritis (OA), but their role remains controversial. Their growing popularity may lead patients to search for information online, but search queries and sources are unknown.

Purpose

We sought to (1) identify the most frequently asked questions on Google related to knee OA and stem cell therapy, (2) assess the types of websites accessed through these searches, and (3) evaluate the transparency of these websites.

Methods

The search terms "knee," "osteoarthritis," and "stem cell" were entered into Google. Frequently asked questions suggested by Google, and their corresponding websites were extracted. Questions and websites were classified by type. Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmark criteria were used as a measure of website transparency (range: 0-4). Analysis of variance tests were performed to compare JAMA benchmark criteria between website types.

Results

Of the 145 questions and website extracted, the most common question subtype pertained to non-stem cell treatments (41.4%) for knee OA; the most common website types were medical publishers (24.8%) and nonacademic medical practices (22.8%). JAMA scores were highest for medical publishers (mean: 3.81) and lowest for nonacademic medical practices (mean: 1.55). Nonacademic medical practices had significantly worse JAMA scores compared with commercial, academic, and medical publishers.

Conclusion

The most frequent questions pertained to non-stem cell treatments, although questions related to stem cell efficacy were most common among the 10 most frequent questions. Google searches on knee OA and stem cell therapies often directed the user to websites lacking transparency and verifiable information. Further research is warranted.

The Quality of Online Information for the Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis: A Google Study

Introduction

Affecting more than 30 million adults annually, osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disorder in the United States. A variety of management options for knee OA exists, including physical therapy, weight loss, intra-articular corticosteroid injections, and total joint arthroplasty. With many treatments available, patients often utilize the internet to educate themselves about their condition and management options. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the quality, transparency, and readability of online information for the treatment of knee OA.

Methods

The search terms “knee,” “arthritis,” and “treatment” were entered into an incognito mode Google browser. Websites were classified by type (commercial, academic, nonacademic medical practice, government/patient advocacy, and other) and graded on content quality, transparency, and readability using the following scores, respectively: modified DISCERN, Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) Benchmark, and Flesch-Kincaid (FK) grade level.

Results

Of the 95 websites evaluated, commercial (mean, 38.2) and academic (37.3) sites had the highest total DISCERN scores, which were significantly greater than nonacademic medical practice (31.8) and government/patient advocacy sites (33.4) (p≤0.035). Nonacademic medical practice sites had the lowest mean total DISCERN (31.8) and JAMA (1.47) scores and the highest FK grade level readability (9.5). There was a significant positive correlation between mean total DISCERN and JAMA scores (r=0.46, p<0.001).

Conclusion

The mean overall quality of websites regarding the treatment of OA was good as evidenced by greater modified DISCERN scores. However, website quality ranged from poor to excellent, indicating that some websites are still missing key information patients may find useful when assessing treatment options online.

A Plague of Their Own: Injury Incidence Remains Elevated in the 2021 Major League Baseball Season Compared to Pre-COVID-19 Seasons

Background

Significant increases in injuries were observed in the 2020 Major League Baseball (MLB) season; these were attributed to an increased acute to chronic workload due to the interrupted preseason and compressed season during the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. In 2021, the MLB resumed its regular schedule.

Hypothesis/Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine the injury incidence and epidemiology of the 2021 MLB season compared to the injury incidence in the 2020 season and pre-COVID-19 seasons. The hypothesis was that, with the return to normal preseason training, injury incidence in 2021 would return to pre-COVID-19 rates. Additionally, it was hypothesized that injury list (IL) placements at midseason 2021 would be decreased relative to 2020 due to the uninterrupted preseason yet increased at full season 2021 due to increased overall workload from 2020.

Study Design

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods

The MLB transactions database was searched for players placed on the IL between 2018 and 2021. Injuries were categorized by body part and player position. Incidence per 1000 athlete-exposures was calculated for the pre-COVID-19 (2018-2019), 2020, and 2021 seasons. The z test for proportions was used to determine significant differences between injury incidences.

Results

The injury incidence rate by midseason 2021 (9.32) compared to 2020 (8.66) was not significantly different (p=0.234). At full season 2021, injury incidence rate (8.69) was significantly higher than pre-COVID-19 seasons (5.13, p<0.001), but not 2020 (p=0.952). When comparing full season 2021 to 2020, increased foot/ankle (0.50 vs 0.14, respectively, p<0.001) and miscellaneous (1.92 vs 0.68, respectively, p<0.001) injuries were observed.

Conclusion

The overall injury incidence in 2021 was significantly higher than pre-COVID-19 seasons, and no significant difference was observed between both mid- and full season 2021 and 2020, refuting the hypotheses. This signifies that injury incidence remained elevated in the 2021 season despite resumption of preseason training and a regular season.

Level of Evidence

3.

Lateral Patellar Dislocation: A Critical Review and Update of Evidence-Based Rehabilitation Practice Guidelines and Expected Outcomes

»

Nonoperative treatment of a lateral patellar dislocation produces favorable functional results, but as high as 35% of individuals experience recurrent dislocations.

»

Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction is an effective treatment to prevent recurrent dislocations and yield excellent outcomes with a high rate of return to sport.

»

Both nonoperative and postoperative rehabilitation should center on resolving pain and edema, restoring motion, and incorporating isolated and multijoint progressive strengthening exercises targeting the hip and knee.

»

Prior to return to sports, both functional and isolated knee strength measurements should be used to determine leg symmetry strength and to utilize patient-reported outcome measures to assess the patient's perceived physical abilities and patellofemoral joint stability.

More Elevated Fastballs Associated With Placement on the Injured List due to Shoulder Injury

Purpose

To evaluate whether impending shoulder injury was associated with changes in pitch location or velocity immediately preceding injury.

Methods

Pitchers placed on the injured list (IL) due to a shoulder injury between 2015 and 2020 were identified in the Major League Baseball transactions database. Four-seam fastball velocity and frequency of pitch location for each pitch type was collected for each player in the season before placement on the IL and within 1 month of placement on the IL with a minimum of 55 pitches thrown of 1 type. Pitch locations were collected as identified by Baseball Savant’s Game-Day Zones. Game-Day Zones were consolidated into high (above the strike zone midpoint) versus low, arm side (closer to the pitcher’s arm side of the plate) versus opposite side, and within the strike zone versus out of zone. Repeated measures analysis of variance determined differences in four-seam velocity and the location distribution of 4-seam fastballs, change-ups, and breaking balls among each group.

Results

In total, 267 pitchers were placed on the IL for a shoulder injury with the majority diagnosed with inflammation (89/267) followed by strain or sprain (69/267). Four-seam fastball locations significantly increased above the mid-point of the zone (45.9% vs 42.4%, P = .008) and out of the strike zone (48.5% vs 46.5%, P = .011) within a month before IL placement. There was no significant change in 4-seam fastball velocity immediately before IL placement.

Conclusions

Pitchers threw more elevated 4-seam fastballs and out-of-zone 4-seam fastballs in the month before IL placement for shoulder injury. These findings suggest that a loss of 4-seam fastball command decreases with impending shoulder injury.

Level of Evidence

IV, prognostic case series.

Patient-reported outcome scores following patellar instability surgery-high prevalence does not equal high responsiveness: a systematic review

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine the utilization and responsiveness of common patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in patients undergoing surgery for patellar instability.

METHODS

Using PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review of studies reporting outcomes following surgical intervention for patellar instability was conducted using Pubmed, Cochrane, OVID Medline, and Google Scholar. Subgroup analysis of articles reporting at least two PROs with baseline and follow-up data were used to evaluate responsiveness of instruments using relative efficiency and effect size.

RESULTS

From the search, 2,848 unique articles were found, of which 178 were included in final analysis (7,122 patients, mean age 22.6, 63.6% female). The most commonly used PRO was the Kujala score (79.2%), followed by the Lysholm (34.8%), and Tegner (30.9%). Seventy-nine articles were eligible for subgroup analysis. The Kujala had a higher relative efficiency than ten of the 14 instruments to which it was compared but had lower relative efficiency compared to the IKDC and Lysholm scores. The Banff Patella Instability Instrument (BPII) and the Norwich score, condition-specific tools, were unable to be fully assessed due to rarity of use and lack of comparisons.

CONCLUSION

The hypothesis that the Kujala score is the most commonly used PRO for patellar instability, although other instruments offer greater efficiency was supported by our results. The IKDC and Lysholm scores had similar effect sizes but higher relative efficiencies than the Kujala, thus suggesting better responsiveness. This analysis adds useful information for surgeons on the effectiveness of the most common PRO's for evaluating patellofemoral instability outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

MOntelukast as a potential CHondroprotective treatment following Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (MOCHA Trial): study protocol for a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial

BACKGROUND

After anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, patient-reported outcomes are improved 10 years post-surgery; however, cytokine concentrations remain elevated years after surgery with over 80% of those with combined ACL and meniscus injuries having posttraumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) within 10-15 years. The purpose of this multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled trial is to assess whether a 6-month course of oral montelukast after ACL reconstruction reduces systemic markers of inflammation and biochemical and imaging biomarkers of cartilage degradation.

METHODS

We will enroll 30 individuals undergoing primary ACL reconstruction to participate in this IRB-approved multicenter clinical trial. This trial will target those at greatest risk of a more rapid PTOA onset (age range 25-50 with concomitant meniscus injury). Patients will be randomly assigned to a group instructed to take 10 mg of montelukast daily for 6 months following ACL reconstruction or placebo. Patients will be assessed prior to surgery and 1, 6, and 12 months following surgery. To determine if montelukast alters systemic inflammation following surgery, we will compare systemic concentrations of prostaglandin E2, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and pro-inflammatory cytokines between groups. We will also compare degradative changes on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) collected 1 and 12 months following surgery between groups with reductions in early biomarkers of cartilage degradation assessed with urinary biomarkers of type II collagen breakdown and bony remodeling.

DISCUSSION

There is a complex interplay between the pro-inflammatory intra-articular environment, underlying bone remodeling, and progressive cartilage degradation. PTOA affects multiple tissues and appears to be more similar to rheumatoid arthritis than osteoarthritis with respect to inflammation. There is currently no treatment to delay or prevent PTOA after ACL injury. Since there is a larger and more persistent inflammatory response after ACL reconstruction than the initial insult of injury, treatment may need to be initiated after surgery, sustained over a period of time, and target multiple mechanisms in order to successfully alter the disease process. This study will assess whether a 6-month postoperative course of oral montelukast affects multiple PTOA mechanisms. Because montelukast administration can be safely sustained for long durations and offers a low-cost treatment option, should it be proven effective in the current trial, these results can be immediately incorporated into clinical practice.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04572256 . Registered on October 1, 2020.

Return to Sport After Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Patellar instability is frequently encountered in the athletic population. Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction is a common strategy to treat recurrent patellar dislocation and demonstrates good clinical outcomes.

PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS

The purpose was to examine return to sport after MPFL reconstruction for patellar instability. We hypothesized that patients would resume athletic activity at a high rate and that a large proportion would return to their preoperative level of performance.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was conducted using PubMed and Cochrane Library databases to identify articles reporting return to sport after MPFL reconstruction for recurrent patellar dislocation. Athletes were defined as those reporting a preoperative sport. A random-effects model was used to evaluate return to sport rates, subsequent level, and rate of instability recurrence. Meta-regression was used to compare return to sport rates in patients undergoing MPFL reconstruction without osteotomy compared with those treated with simultaneous tibial tubercle osteotomy or trochleoplasty.

RESULTS

In total, 23 articles met inclusion criteria after full-text review. A total of 930 patients were analyzed, including 786 athletes. Women represented 61.3% of all patients. The overall mean age was 21.1 years (range, 9.5-60.0 years), with a mean follow-up time of 3.0 years (range, 0.8-8.5 years). The return to sport rate was 92.8% (95% CI, 86.4-97.6). Patients returned to or surpassed their preoperative level of activity in 71.3% (95% CI, 63.7-78.4) of cases. An osteotomy was performed on 10.5% of athletes. Return to sport did not differ significantly in patients undergoing MPFL reconstruction without osteotomy versus those receiving additional osteotomy (95.4% vs 86.9%; P = .22). Patients returned to sport at a mean of 6.7 months (range, 3.0-6.4 months) postoperatively. Osteotomy did not affect return time. Complications occurred at an overall rate of 8.8%. The most common complication was recurrence of instability (1.9%; 95% CI, 0.4-4.0). The Kujala score was reported by 13 studies, with pre- and postoperative combined means of 60.3 and 90.0, respectively.

CONCLUSION

MPFL reconstruction is an effective and reliable treatment in the setting of patellofemoral instability. Surgeons can counsel their patients that they can expect a high rate of return to sport after MPFL reconstruction surgery alone or with concomitant osteotomy.

Mood Disorders Are Associated with Increased Perioperative Opioid Usage and Health Care Costs in Patients Undergoing Knee Cartilage Restoration Procedure

OBJECTIVE

To identify the prevalence of mood disorder diagnoses in patients undergoing cartilage transplantation procedures and determine the relationship between mood disorders, opioid usage, and postoperative health care costs.

DESIGN

Patients with current procedural terminology (CPT) codes for osteochondral autograft transplantation (OAT), osteochondral allograft transplantation (OCA), and autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) were identified in the Truven Health Marketscan database (January 2009-September 2014). Patients were grouped based on having a preoperative mood disorder diagnosis (preMDD). Preoperative opioids, postoperative opioids ≥90 days, and health care costs within the year postoperative were compared for those with and without mood disorders. Costs were analyzed, adjusting for preoperative cost, sex, age, and opioid usage, for those with and without mood disorders.

RESULTS

A total of 3,682 patients were analyzed (ACI: 690, OAT: 1,294, OCA: 1,698). A quarter of patients had preMDD (ACI: 25.4%, OAT: 20.6%, OCA: 22.7%). Postoperative opioid use was more prevalent in preMDD patients (OAT: 37.1% vs. 24.1%, P < 0.001; OCA: 30.4% vs. 24.8%, P = 0.032; ACI: 33.7% vs. 26.2%, P = 0.070) (odds ratio [OR] ranged from 1.29 to 1.86). First-year postoperative log-transformed costs were significantly greater for preMDD patients (ACI: $7,733 vs. $5,689*, P = 0.012; OAT: $5,221 vs. $3,823*, P < 0.001; OCA: $6,973 vs. $3,992*, P < 0.001; *medians reported). The estimated adjusted first postoperative year cost increase for preMDD OCA patients was 41.7% (P < 0.001) and 28.0% for OAT patients (P = 0.034). There was no statistical difference for ACI patients (P = 0.654).

CONCLUSION

Cartilage transplantation patients have a high prevalence of preoperative mood disorders. Opioid use and health care costs were significantly greater for patients with preoperative mood disorder diagnoses.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, retrospective therapeutic study.

An Innovative Seven-year Physician Scientist Residency Training Program That Addresses the Shortage of Academic Surgeons

Due to the declining number of scientifically trained physicians and increasing demand for high-quality literature, our institution pioneered a seven-year Physician Scientist Training Program (PSTP) to provide research-oriented residents the knowledge and skills for a successful academic career. The present study sought to identify orthopaedic surgeons with MD/PhD degrees, residency programs with dedicated research tracks, and to assess the effectiveness of the novel seven-year program in training prospective academic orthopaedic surgeons. Surgeons with MD/PhD degrees account for 2.3% of all 3,408 orthopaedic faculty positions in U.S. residency programs. During the last 23 years, our PSTP residents produced 752 peer-reviewed publications and received $349,354 from 23 resident-authored extramural grants. Eleven of our seven-year alumni practice orthopaedic surgery in an academic setting. The seven-year PSTP successfully develops clinically trained surgeon scientists with refined skills in basic science and clinical experimental design, grant proposals, scientific presentations, and manuscript preparation. (Journal of Surgical Orthopaedic Advances 31(3):144-149, 2022).

Role of the Hypoxia-Inducible Factor Pathway in Normal and Osteoarthritic Meniscus and in Mice after Destabilization of the Medial Meniscus

OBJECTIVE

Meniscus injury and the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) pathway are independently linked to osteoarthritis pathogenesis, but the role of the meniscus HIF pathway remains unclear. We sought to identify and evaluate HIF pathway response in normal and osteoarthritic meniscus and to examine the effects of Epas1 (HIF-2α) insufficiency in mice on early osteoarthritis development.

METHODS

Normal and osteoarthritic human meniscus specimens were obtained and used for immunohistochemical evaluation and cell culture studies for the HIF pathway. Meniscus cells were treated with pro-inflammatory stimuli, including interleukins (IL)-1β, IL-6, transforming growth factor (TGF)-α, and fibronectin fragments (FnF). Target genes were also evaluated with HIF-1α and HIF-2α (Epas1) overexpression and knockdown. Wild-type (n = 36) and Epas1^+/- (n = 30) heterozygous mice underwent destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM) surgery and were evaluated at 2 and 4 weeks postoperatively for osteoarthritis development using histology.

RESULTS

HIF-1α and HIF-2α immunostaining and gene expression did not differ between normal and osteoarthritic meniscus. While pro-inflammatory stimulation significantly increased both catabolic and anabolic gene expression in the meniscus, HIF-1α and Epas1 expression levels were not significantly altered. Epas1 overexpression significantly increased Col2a1 expression. Both wild-type and Epas1^+/- mice developed osteoarthritis following DMM surgery. There were no significant differences between genotypes at either time point.

CONCLUSION

The HIF pathway is likely not responsible for osteoarthritic changes in the human meniscus. Additionally, Epas1 insufficiency does not protect against osteoarthritis development in the mouse at early time points after DMM surgery. The HIF pathway may be more important for protection against catabolic stress.

Association Between Pitch Break on the 4-Seam Fastball and Slider and Shoulder Injury in Major League Baseball Pitchers: A Case-Control Study

Background

Few specific risk factors are known for shoulder injury in professional pitchers. New pitch-tracking data allow for risk stratification based on advanced metrics.

Purpose/Hypothesis

The purpose of this study was to determine the association between shoulder injury, pitch frequency, and pitch metrics (velocity, total break, break angle, and spin rate) for the 4-seam fastball, curveball, and slider. We hypothesized that more frequent use of the 4-seam fastball would be associated with shoulder injury.

Study Design

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

The Major League Baseball (MLB) database was queried for pitchers who had been placed on the injury list (IL) with a shoulder injury between 2015 and 2019. Injured pitchers were matched 1:1 with controls (pitchers not on the IL with a shoulder injury during the study period), based on age (±1 year), history of ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction, position (starter vs reliever), and pitches thrown during the injury season (±500). Pitch frequency, velocity, horizontal break, vertical break, total break, and spin rate for the season were collected from the Baseball Savant website for the 4-seam fastball, curveball, and slider. Univariate analysis was used to determine group differences for individual variables. Multiple logistic regression was performed to determine odds ratios (ORs) for shoulder injury associated with pitch frequency, velocity, total break, break angle, and spin rate. Covariates included age, position, ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction status, expected weighted on-base average, and total pitches thrown.

Results

Overall, 233 injured pitchers were evaluated. The most common reason for IL placement was inflammation (78/233; 33.5%) followed by strain or sprain (61/233; 26.2%). Increased total pitch break was associated with an increased risk of shoulder injury for the 4-seam fastball (OR, 1.340 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.199-1.509]; P < .001) and slider (OR, 1.360 [95% CI, 1.206-1.554]; P < .001). For the slider, a decreased spin rate (OR = 0.998 [95% CI, 0.997-0.999]; P = .026) and a more vertical break angle (OR = 1.170 [95% CI: 1.073-1.278]; P = .004) were associated with increased risk of injury.

Conclusion

Increased pitch break of the 4-seam fastball and slider was associated positively with shoulder injury in MLB pitchers. These findings add to the understanding of throwing injury and ability to detect risk using ball-tracking technology.

Psychological Healthcare Burden Lessens After Hip Arthroscopy for Those With Comorbid Depression or Anxiety

Purpose

In this study, we investigated whether patients undergoing arthroscopic treatment of femoral acetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) seek health care for treatment of comorbid depression and anxiety in the year following hip arthroscopy.

Methods

Using the Truven Health Marketscan database, FAIS patients who underwent hip arthroscopy between January 2009 and December 2016 were identified. Claims related to depression or anxiety filed during the year before surgery were required for inclusion. Using claims for pharmaceutical and psychological therapy treatments for mental health disorders, four groups of patients were analyzed on the basis of preoperative anxiety/depression treatment: medication only, therapy only, medication + therapy, and no treatment. Number of opioid pain prescriptions within 180 days prior to surgery and >90 days after hip arthroscopy were also compared.

Results

Depression and anxiety claims were identified in 5,208/14,830 (35.1%) patients. Preoperative treatment for depression and anxiety included medication only (n = 648, 12.4%), therapy only (n = 899, 17.3%), medication + therapy (n = 252, 4.8%), and no treatment (n = 3,409, 65.5%). Of the 900 patients who filled an anxiety/depression-related prescription prior to surgery, 422 (46.9%) patients did not fill a similar prescription in the postoperative year. Of the 1,151 patients receiving anxiety/depression-related therapy prior to surgery, 549 (47.7%) did not receive therapy in the postoperative year. Preoperative opioid prescriptions were filled for 393 patients (60.6%) in medication-only group, 275 (30.6%) in therapy-only group, 156 (61.9%) in medication + therapy group, and 1,059 (31.1%) in the group receiving no treatment. Opioid prescriptions >90 days postoperatively were filled for 330 (50.9%), 225 (25.0%), 120 (47.6%), and 861 (25.3%) patients, respectively.

Conclusion

Hip arthroscopy for FAIS is associated with a decreased postoperative use of health care resources for the treatment of depression and anxiety. Clinicians should also be aware of the potential interplay between preoperative psychotropic medication use and prolonged opioid use when counseling patients.

Level of Evidence

IV, therapeutic case series.

Clinical presentation, imaging findings, and arthroscopic features in skeletally immature and mature adolescent hip patients: a comparative double-cohort retrospective study

The purpose of this study was to evaluate differences in clinical presentation and extent of surgery required based on skeletal maturity between two cohorts of adolescent hip arthroscopy patients. We hypothesized that skeletal immaturity would be associated with a lower frequency of pincer impingement and a decreased need for surgical acetabuloplasty. A database of 1481 hip arthroscopies performed by a single orthopaedic surgeon between 2008 and 2016 was queried. Patients ≤18 years of age with femoroacetabular impingement were divided into two groups based on Risser score: Risser 1-4 (skeletally immature) or Risser 5 (skeletally mature). Groups were compared with respect to presentation, diagnosis, and arthroscopic procedures performed. Eighty-eight skeletally immature and 49 skeletally mature patients were included. Mixed impingement was more common in skeletally mature patients than immature (67.3% vs. 48.9%, P = 0.037). Skeletal maturity was associated with a significantly increased probability of undergoing acetabuloplasty (odds ratio = 4.6, 95% confidence interval 1.4-15.5; P = 0.014). Extent of chondral degeneration was similar between groups. Our findings support the hypothesis that skeletally immature hips undergo acetabuloplasty less frequently and demonstrate similar chondromalacia compared with a skeletally mature cohort. These results suggest that arthroscopic treatment for impingement-associated hip pain may be a reasonable option to consider for symptomatic skeletally immature patients who have completed a structured course of nonoperative treatment. Additional longitudinal outcomes data are needed to clarify the natural history of impingement-associated hip pain in younger populations and whether hip arthroscopy delays progression of osteoarthritis in these patients.

Injury Rates in Major League Baseball During the 2020 COVID-19 Season

Background:

The 2020 Major League Baseball (MLB) season was drastically altered because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The changes included an extended layoff between March and July as well as a shortened preseason.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

To determine the incidence and epidemiology of MLB injuries in the abbreviated 2020 season compared with prior seasons. We hypothesized that there was an increase in the overall injury rate in the 2020 season compared with the 2018-2019 seasons and that it equally affected all body regions.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

The MLB transactions database was queried to find players who had been placed on the injury list between 2018 and 2020. Injuries were categorized into upper extremity, lower extremity, spine/core, and other injuries. Incidence per 1000 athlete-exposures was calculated for the prior 2 seasons (2018-2019) and for the 2020 season separately. Incidence for each category was also calculated separately for pitchers and fielders. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and confidence intervals were used to compare injury rates in 2018-2019 versus 2020. The z test for proportions was used to determine significant differences between injury incidences.

Results:

In 2020, the overall incidence rate per 1000 athlete-exposures was almost twice the rate compared with the 2 seasons before COVID-19 (8.66 vs 5.13; IRR, 1.69 [95% CI, 1.53-1.87]; P < .001). Injury incidence increased similarly in 2020 for both pitchers (IRR, 1.68 [95% CI, 1.47-1.91]; P < .001) and fielders (IRR, 1.68 [95% CI, 1.45-1.96]; P < .001). Increases in injury incidence were seen in the upper extremity, spine/core, and other injury categories; however, the incidence of the lower extremity did not change significantly.

Conclusion:

There was a significant increase in injury incidence for both pitchers and fielders in 2020. Injury rates increased in anatomic zones of the upper extremity and spine/core but were not significantly changed in the lower extremity. The overall increase in injury rate suggests that irregular or insufficient sport-specific preparation prior to the start of the season placed athletes at a greater risk of injury when play resumed.

Making Sense of Hip Preservation Procedural Coding-Getting Paid for Your Work!

Hip preservation and peri-trochanteric procedures are becoming more commonplace for the arthroplasty surgeon. Understanding the reimbursement for these procedures remains a challenge for those looking to expand this portion of their practice. In order to financially maximize the surgeon’s efforts, we present recommendations for hip preservation procedural coding.

The Effect of Straight-Line Long-Toss Versus Ultra-Long-Toss Throwing on Passive Glenohumeral Range of Motion Recovery After Pitching

BACKGROUND

Repetitive throwing in baseball pitchers can lead to pathologic changes in shoulder anatomy, range of motion (notably glenohumeral internal rotation deficit), and subsequent injury; however, the ideal strengthening, recovery, and maintenance protocol of the throwing shoulder in baseball remains unclear. Two strategies for throwing shoulder recovery from pitching are straight-line long-toss (SLT) throwing and ultra-long-toss (ULT) throwing, although neither is preferentially supported by empirical data.

HYPOTHESIS

ULT will be more effective in returning baseline internal rotation as compared with SLT in collegiate pitchers after a pitching session.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 3.

METHODS

A total of 24 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I baseball pitchers with mean age 20.0 ± 1.1 years were randomized to either the ULT group (n = 13; 9 right-hand dominant, 4 left-hand dominant) or SLT group (n = 11; 10 right-hand dominant, 1 left-hand dominant). Measurements (dominant and nondominant, 90° abducted external rotation [ER], internal rotation [IR], and total range of motion [TROM]) were taken at 5 time points across 3 days: before and immediately after a standardized bullpen session on day 1; before and immediately after a randomized standardized ULT or SLT session on day 2; and before practice on Day 3.

RESULTS

ULT demonstrated significantly greater final ER compared with baseline (+10°; P = 0.05), but did not demonstrate significant IR changes. Similarly, SLT demonstrated significantly greater post-SLT ER (+12°; P = 0.02) and TROM (+12°;P = 0.01) compared with baseline, but no significant IR changes. Final ER measurements were similar between ULT (135° ± 14°) and SLT (138° ± 10°) (P = 0.59). There was also no statistically significant difference in final IR between ULT (51° ± 14°) and SLT (56° ± 8°) (P = 0.27).

CONCLUSION

The routine use of postperformance, ULT throwing to recover from range of motion alterations, specifically IR loss, after a pitching session is not superior to standard, SLT throwing. Based on these findings, the choice of postpitching recovery throwing could be player specific based on experience and comfort.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The most effective throwing regimens for enhancing performance and reducing residual impairment are unclear, and ideal recovery and maintenance protocols are frequently debated with little supporting data. Two strategies for throwing shoulder recovery from pitching are SLT and ULT throwing. These are employed to help maintain range of motion and limit IR loss in pitchers. The routine use of ULT throwing for recovery and to limit range of motion alterations after a pitching session is not superior to SLT throwing.

Tetracycline use in treating osteoarthritis: a systematic review

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The purpose of the review was to synthesize the current literature regarding tetracyclines in the treatment of osteoarthritis.

METHODS

Using multiple databases, a systematic review was performed with customized search terms crafted to identify studies examining doxycycline or minocycline in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Results were classified into basic science mechanistic studies, in vivo animal studies, and human clinical trials. A total of 1446 potentially relevant studies were reviewed, and after exclusion criteria were applied, 23 investigations were included in the final analysis.

RESULTS

From 12 basic science mechanistic studies, we report on three main mechanisms by which tetracyclines may exert benefit in osteoarthritis progression: matrix metalloproteinase inhibition, immunomodulation, and nitric oxide synthase inhibition. Seven animal studies showed generally encouraging results. Four articles reported human clinical studies, showing mixed results in the treatment of osteoarthritis, potentially related to the choice of patient population, primary outcomes, and timing of treatment.

CONCLUSION

Tetracyclines have the potential to benefit osteoarthritis patients via multiple mechanisms. Further study is warranted to examine the optimal dose and timing of tetracycline treatment in osteoarthritis.

ACL Reconstruction Graft Angle and Outcomes: Transtibial vs Anteromedial Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

The importance of creating an anatomic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction has been receiving significant attention. The best technique by which to achieve this anatomic reconstruction continues to be debated. The two most common methods are the transtibial (TT) and anteromedial (AM) techniques. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and the literature comparing the two remains uncertain.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

In this prospective comparative study, we aimed to compare the ACL graft and tunnel angles achieved using the anatomic transtibial (TT) and anteromedial (AM) techniques; compare the ACL graft and tunnel angles in knees that have undergone ACL reconstruction and knees with intact ACLs; and determine whether differences in the graft or tunnel angle produce differences in clinical outcomes, as measured using both physical exam and patient-reported outcomes, after ACL reconstruction.

METHODS

Patients who underwent primary ACL reconstruction with bone-tendon-bone grafts using a TT or AM technique were included. Femoral graft angle (FGA), tibial graft angle (TGA), and sagittal orientation of the reconstructed ACL and contralateral native ACL were measured on post-operative magnetic resonance imaging. Post-operatively, patients underwent measurement of knee stability and completed the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) survey.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine patients were enrolled (AM group, 14; TT group, 15); at follow-up, KOOS data were available for 26 patients (13 in each group). There were no differences in sagittal ACL graft angle between groups or in comparison with the normal knee. The FGA was more vertical after TT reconstructions; the TGA was comparable between groups. There were no significant differences in 2-year post-operative physical exam measurements or in KOOS scores.

CONCLUSION

Anatomic ACL angle was restored after reconstruction with both the TT and AM techniques, despite different FGAs. No significant differences in clinical outcome were noted between groups on physical exam or KOOS at 2 years after surgery. These results suggest that TT reconstruction results in a graft position similar to that seen in AM reconstruction and that the location of the intra-articular tunnel aperture matters more than the orientation of the tunnel.