Medial Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction With Allograft Provides Excellent Clinical Outcomes, High Rates of Return to Play, and a Low Incidence of Postoperative Complications: A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

To perform a systematic review evaluating clinical outcomes in patients undergoing medial ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction (MUCLR) with soft-tissue allograft.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The primary outcomes evaluated were patient-reported outcome scores, return to play (RTP) rates, incidence of postoperative complications, and rates of graft rupture or mechanical failure.

RESULTS

The literature search identified 395 articles, and 5 studies met final inclusion criteria after full-text review. A total of 274 patients were analyzed in the included studies and follow-up ranged from 3.0 to 7.6 years. Two studies (number of patients = 141) reported outcomes exclusively of MUCLR with allograft, whereas 3 studies (number of patients = 133) reported outcomes in patients undergoing MUCLR with either allograft or autograft. Allograft sources included gracilis, semitendinosus, plantaris, peroneus longus, and palmaris longus. Level of patient athletic competition ranged from recreational athletes to the professional level; however, nonathletes in the setting of trauma were also included. The RTP rate after MUCLR with soft-tissue allograft was 95.3%, and 89.3% of patients returned to a similar or greater level of play postoperatively. The Timmerman-Andrews score was reported in 2 studies, and the means postoperatively ranged from 94.55 to 97. Postoperative complication rates were low (range, 0% to 20%), and there were no reported incidences of allograft rupture or mechanical failure.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the available data, soft-tissue allograft for MUCLR in athletic patient populations provides excellent clinical outcomes, high rates of RTP, and low rates of postoperative complications and graft failure at short-term follow-up. There remains a lack of high-quality evidence directly comparing autograft versus allograft outcomes in elite overhead-throwing athletes to support allograft as an acceptable alternative for MUCLR in this patient population. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, systematic review of Level III-IV studies.

Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction With Bone-Patellar Tendon-Bone Autograft, the Incidence of Anterior Knee Pain Ranges From 5.4% to 48.4% and the Incidence of Kneeling Pain Ranges From 4.0% to 75.6%: A Systematic Review of Level I Studies

Purpose

To (1) perform a systematic review of level I randomized controlled trials (RCTs) detailing the incidence of anterior knee pain and kneeling pain following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) with bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) autograft and (2) investigate the effect of bone grafting the patellar harvest site on anterior knee and kneeling pain.

Methods

A systematic review of level I studies from 1980 to 2023 was performed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The primary outcome evaluated was the presence of donor site morbidity in the form of anterior knee pain or kneeling pain. A secondary subanalysis was performed to assess for differences in the incidence of postoperative pain between patient groups undergoing ACLR with BPTB receiving harvest site bone grafting and those in whom the defect was left untreated.

Results

Following full-text review, 15 studies reporting on a total of 696 patients met final inclusion criteria. Patients were followed for an average of 4.78 years (range, 2.0-15.3), and the mean age ranged from 21.7 to 38 years old. The incidence of anterior knee pain, calculated from 354 patients across 10 studies, ranged from 5.4% to 48.4%. The incidence of postoperative pain with kneeling was determined to range from 4.0% to 75.6% in 490 patients from 9 studies. Patients treated with bone grafting of the BPTB harvest site had no significant difference in incidence of any knee pain compared with those who were not grafted, with incidences of 43.3% and 40.2%, respectively.

Conclusions

Based on the current level I RCT data, the incidences of anterior knee pain and kneeling pain following ACLR with BPTB autograft range from 5.4% to 48.4% and 4.0% to 75.6%, respectively.

Level of Evidence

Level I, systematic review of RCTs.

Postoperative Radiographic Outcomes Following Primary Open Coracoid Transfer (Bristow-Latarjet) Vary in Definition, Classification, and Imaging Modality: A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

To analyze radiographic outcomes by conventional radiography, computed tomography (CT), or both and complication rates of open coracoid transfer at a minimum of 12-months follow-up.

METHODS

A literature search was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, using PubMed, Medline (Ovid), and EMBASE library databases. Inclusion criteria were clinical studies reporting on open Latarjet as the primary surgical procedure(revision coracoid transfer after failed prior stabilization excluded) with postoperative radiographic outcomes at a minimum mean 1-year follow-up. Patient demographics, type of postoperative imaging modality, and radiographic outcomes and complications including graft union, osteoarthritis, and osteolysis were systematically reviewed. Data were summarized as ranges of reported values for each outcome metric. Each radiographic outcome was graphically represented in a Forest plot with point estimates of the incidence of radiographic outcomes with corresponding 95% confidence intervals and I2.

RESULTS

Thirty-three studies met inclusion criteria, with a total of 1,456 shoulders. The most common postoperative imaging modality was plain radiography only (n = 848 [58.2%]), both CT and radiography (n = 287 [19.7%]), and CT only (n = 321 [22.1%]). Overall, the reported graft union rate ranged from 75% to 100%, of which 79.8% (n = 395) were detected on plain radiography. The most common reported postoperative radiographic complications after the open coracoid transfer were osteoarthritis (range, 0%-100%, pooled mean 28%), graft osteolysis (range, 0%-100%, pooled mean 30%), nonunion (range, 0%-32%, pooled mean 5.1%), malpositioned graft (range, 0%-75%, pooled mean 14.75%), hardware issues (range, 0%-9.1%, pooled mean 5%), and bone block fracture (range, 0%-8%, pooled mean 2.1%). Graft healing was achieved in a majority of cases (range, 75%-100%).

CONCLUSION

Postoperative radiographic outcomes after open coracoid transfer vary greatly in definition, classification, and imaging modality of choice. Greater consistency in postoperative radiographic outcomes is essential to evaluate graft healing, osteolysis, and nonunion.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Management of Acromioclavicular Joint Injuries: A Historic Account

There has been a rapid evolution in best practice management of acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries. AP, Zanca, scapular Y, and dynamic axillary radiographic views provide optimal visualization of the joint and may assess for the presence of horizontal AC instability. Severity of AC joint pathology is classified according to the 6-tier Rockwood scoring system. Over 160 surgical techniques have been described for AC joint repair and reconstruction in the last decade; as a result, determining the optimal treatment algorithm has become increasingly challenging secondary to the lack of consistently excellent clinical outcomes.

Return to Play After Shoulder Arthroscopy in Major League Baseball Pitchers vs Position Players

Background

Recovery from shoulder arthroscopy may vary between professional pitchers and position players in Major League Baseball (MLB). The time that it takes to return to play (RTP) and the level of skills to be regained after surgery are important factors for an athlete to consider when making career decisions.

Purpose

To identify MLB players who had arthroscopic shoulder surgery and observe their rates of RTP to MLB and the minor league, as well as to compare pre- and postinjury performance statistics and career metrics.

Study Design

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods

Public records (press releases, http://www.prosportstransactions.com, http://www.baseball-reference.com) were searched and analyzed to determine the number of days from shoulder arthroscopy to RTP and pre- and postinjury statistics for pitchers and position players in the MLB and minor league from 1998 to 2018. To meet inclusion criteria, a player must have undergone shoulder arthroscopy after having played at least 1 game in the MLB and had no identifiable concomitant injuries.

Results

Of 134 players, 89 (66.4%) returned to MLB. Fifty-four of 89 pitchers (60.7%) and 35 of 45 position players (77.8%) returned to MLB (P = .048). Forty-nine of 54 pitchers (90.7%) and 23 of 35 position players (65.7%) who returned to MLB returned to the minor league first. The mean time to RTP was 469.6 days (range, 100-1079 days) for pitchers and 301.6 days (range, 94-1488) for position players (P = .002). The WAR statistic (wins above replacement) for the pitchers decreased significantly (P = .004) after shoulder arthroscopy.

Conclusion

MLB position players returned to play at higher rates and more quickly than did pitchers. The WAR statistic declined in pitchers during the first season of RTP. Players undergoing arthroscopic shoulder surgery should be aware of these possible outcomes in time to RTP and postoperative performance.

Improved Accuracy of Coronal Alignment Can Be Attained Using 3D-Printed Patient-Specific Instrumentation for Knee Osteotomies: A Systematic Review of Level III and IV Studies

PURPOSE

To evaluate the accuracy and precision of postoperative coronal plane alignment using 3D-printed patient-specific instrumentation (PSI) in the setting of proximal tibial or distal femoral osteotomies.

METHODS

A systematic review evaluating the accuracy of 3D-printed PSI for coronal plane alignment correcting knee osteotomies was performed. The primary outcomes were accuracy of coronal plane limb alignment correction and number of correction outliers. Secondary variables were duration of surgery, number of intraoperative fluoroscopic images, complications, cost, and clinical outcomes (as applicable).

RESULTS

Ninety-three studies were identified, and 14 were included in the final analysis. Overall, mean postoperative deviation from target correction ranged from 0.3° to 1° for all studies using hip-knee angle measurements and 2.3% to 4.9% for all studies using weight-bearing line measurements. The incidence of correction outliers was assessed in 8 total studies and ranged from 0 to 25% (total n = 10 knees) of patients corrected with 3D-printed PSI. Osteotomies performed with 3D-printed cutting guides or wedges demonstrated significantly shorter operative times (P < .05) and fewer intraoperative fluoroscopic images (P < .05) than control groups in four case control studies.

CONCLUSION

Patients undergoing distal femoral osteotomy or proximal tibial osteotomy procedures with 3D-printed patient-specific cutting guides and wedges had highly accurate coronal plane alignment with a low rate of outliers. Patients treated with 3D printed PSI also demonstrated significantly shorter operative times and decreased intraoperative fluoroscopy when compared to conventional techniques.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Qualitative and Quantitative Anatomic Descriptions of the Coracoclavicular and Acromioclavicular Ligaments: A Systematic Review

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Clinical Relevance

Glenoid Bone Loss Directly Affects Hill-Sachs Morphology: An Advanced 3-Dimensional Analysis

BACKGROUND

While the glenoid track concept presents a useful prediction for recurrent glenohumeral instability, little is known about the humeral head bony architecture as it relates to glenoid erosion in the setting of bipolar bone loss.

PURPOSE

To (1) qualitatively and quantitatively analyze the interplay between glenoid bone loss (GBL) and Hill-Sachs lesions (HSLs) in a cohort of patients with anterior instability using 3-dimensional imaging software and (2) assess the relationships between GBL and HSL characteristics.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

Patients were identified who had anterior shoulder instability with a minimum 5% GBL and evidence of HSL confirmed on computed tomography. Unilateral 3-dimensional models of the ipsilateral proximal humeral head and en face sagittal oblique view of the glenoid were reconstructed using MIMICS software (Materialise NV). GBL surface area, width, defect length, and glenoid track width were quantified. The volume, surface area, width, and depth of identified HSLs were quantified with their location (medial, superior, and inferior extent) on the humeral head. Severity of GBL was defined as percentage glenoid bone surface area loss and categorized as low grade (5%-10%), moderate grade (>10% to 20%), high grade (>20% to 30%), and extensive (>30%). Analysis of variance was then computed to determine significance (P < .05) between severity of GBL and associated HSL parameters.

RESULTS

In total, 100 patients met inclusion criteria (mean age, 27.9 years; range, 18-43 years), which included 58 right shoulders and 42 left shoulders (84 male, 16 female). Among groups, there were 32 patients with low-grade GBL (mean GBL = 6.1%), 38 with moderate grade (mean GBL = 16.2%), 17 with high grade (mean GBL = 23.7%), and 13 with extensive (mean GBL = 34.0%), with an overall mean GBL of 18.1% (range, 5%-39%). Patients with 5%-10% GBL had significantly narrower HSLs (average and maximum width; P < .03) and deeper HSLs (average depth; P = .002) as compared with all other GBL groups, while greater GBL was associated with wider and shallower HSLs. GBL width, percentage width loss, defect length, and glenoid track width all significantly differed across the 4 GBL groups (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

HSLs had significantly different morphological characteristics depending on the severity of GBL, indicating that GBL was directly related to the characteristics of HSLs. Patients presenting with smaller glenoid defects had significantly narrower and deeper HSLs with less humeral head surface area loss, while greater GBL was associated with wider and shallower HSLs.

Anchor Arthropathy of the Shoulder Joint After Instability Repair: Outcomes Improve With Revision Surgery

PURPOSE

To report clinical and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in patients undergoing revision surgery after diagnosis of anchor-induced arthropathy.

METHODS

Patients who underwent revision arthroscopic shoulder surgery and were diagnosed with post-instability glenohumeral arthropathy performed from January 2006 to May 2018 were included in the current study. Patients were excluded if they underwent prior open shoulder procedures, if glenoid bone loss was present, or if prerevision imaging and records were incomplete or not available. Data included initial diagnosis and index procedure performed, presenting arthropathy symptoms including duration, exam findings before revision surgery, and surgical intervention. PROMs were prospectively collected before surgery and at minimum 2-year follow-up.

RESULTS

Fourteen patients were included with a mean (± standard deviation) age at presentation of 35.2 ± 12.1 years (range 16 to 59). The follow-up rate was 86%, with a mean follow-up of 3.8 years (range 1.1 to 10.6). Mean time to development of arthropathy symptoms was 48.2 months (range <1 month to 13.8 years), all presenting with pain and decreased range of motion on exam. At time of revision surgery, all patients underwent either open or arthroscopic removal of previous implants, including anchors and suture material. Six patients underwent additional revision stabilization procedures, 1 underwent total shoulder arthroplasty, and 7 underwent arthroscopic intraarticular debridement, capsular release, and chondroplasty with or without microfracture. Pain significantly improved in 79% of patients (P = .05). Significant improvements in all PROMs were observed, including 12-item Short Form (43.8 to 54.8, P < .01); Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand, shortened version (31.8 to 8.4, P < .01); Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (47.0 to 84.5, P < .05); and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (61.6 to 92.1, P < .01). Average external rotation significantly improved, from 31° ± 22° to 52° ± 24° (P = .02).

CONCLUSION

Rapid intervention after diagnosis, through either revision arthroscopic or open debridement and stabilization, can lead to significant improvement in range of motion, pain, and overall patient function and satisfaction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, retrospective case series.

Biomechanical Analysis of Segmental Medial Meniscal Transplantation in a Human Cadaveric Model

BACKGROUND

Meniscal deficiency has been reported to increase contact pressures in the affected tibiofemoral joint, possibly leading to degenerative changes. Current surgical options include meniscal allograft transplantation and insertion of segmental meniscal scaffolds. Little is known about segmental meniscal allograft transplantation.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effectiveness of segmental medial meniscal allograft transplantation in the setting of partial medial meniscectomy in restoring native knee loading characteristics.

STUDY DESIGN

Controlled laboratory study.

METHODS

Ten fresh-frozen human cadaveric knees underwent central midbody medial meniscectomy and subsequent segmental medial meniscal allograft transplantation. Knees were loaded in a dynamic tensile testing machine to 1000 N for 20 seconds at 0°, 30°, 60°, and 90° of flexion. Four conditions were tested: (1) intact medial meniscus, (2) deficient medial meniscus, (3) segmental medial meniscal transplant fixed with 7 meniscocapsular sutures, and (4) segmental medial meniscal transplant fixed with 7 meniscocapsular sutures and 1 suture fixed through 2 bone tunnels. Submeniscal medial and lateral pressure-mapping sensors assessed mean contact pressure, peak contact pressure, mean contact area, and pressure mapping. Two-factor random-intercepts linear mixed effects models compared pressure and contact area measurements among experimental conditions.

RESULTS

The meniscal-deficient state demonstrated a significantly higher mean contact pressure than all other testing conditions (mean difference, ≥0.35 MPa; P < .001 for all comparisons) and a significantly smaller total contact area as compared with all other testing conditions (mean difference, ≤140 mm²; P < .001 for all comparisons). There were no significant differences in mean contact pressure or total contact area among the intact, transplant, or transplant-with-tunnel groups or in any outcome measure across all comparisons in the lateral compartment. No significant differences existed in center of pressure and relative pressure distribution across testing conditions.

CONCLUSION

Segmental medial meniscal allograft transplantation restored the medial compartment mean contact pressure and mean contact area to values measured in the intact medial compartment.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Segmental medial meniscal transplantation may provide an alternative to full meniscal transplantation by addressing only the deficient portion of the meniscus with transplanted tissue. Additional work is required to validate long-term fixation strength and biologic integration.

Pullout Strength of All-Suture and Metallic Anchors in Repair of Lateral Collateral Ligament Injuries of the Elbow

PURPOSE

To compare the biomechanical properties of metallic anchor (MA) and all-suture anchor (ASA) constructs in the anatomic reattachment of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament complex to its humeral insertion.

METHODS

Twenty paired male human cadaveric elbows with a mean age of 46.3 years (range: 33-58 years) were used in this study. Each pair was randomly allocated across 2 groups of either MA or ASA. A single 3.5-mm MA or 2.6-mm ASA was then inserted flush into the lateral epicondyle. A dynamic tensile testing machine was used to perform cyclic loading followed by a load to failure test. During the cyclic loading phase, the anchors were sinusoidally tensioned from 10 N to 100 N for 1,000 cycles at a frequency of 0.5 Hz. In the load to failure test, the anchors were pulled at a rate of 3 mm/s. Load at 1-mm and 2-mm displacement, as well as load to ultimate failure were assessed. Clinical failure was defined as displacement of more than 2 mm. Normality of data was assessed with the Shapiro-Wilk test. Continuous data are presented as medians and compared with the Mann-Whitney U test and categorical data was compared with the χ² test or Fisher exact test.

RESULTS

Displacement was significantly greater for the ASA group during cyclic loading starting from the tenth cycle (P < .05). Displacement of more than 5 mm within the first 100 cycles was observed in 2 anchors in the ASA group. No difference was observed in loads required to displace 1 mm (MA: 146 N [6-169] vs ASA: 144 N [2-153]; P = .53) and 2 mm (MA: 171 N [13-202] vs ASA: 161 N [9-191]; P = .97), but there was a statistically significant difference between ultimate loads in favor of ASA in the load to failure test (MA: 297 N [84-343] vs 463 N [176-620]; P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

In the cyclic test, no difference in clinical failure defined as pull-out of more than 2 mm was observed between 3.5 mm MAs and 2.6 mm ASAs. In the ultimate load to failure analysis, no difference was observed between groups in force causing 1 and 2 mm of displacement, but there was a significant difference in favor of ASA in the pull to ultimate failure test.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Potential benefits of all-suture anchors include preservation of bone stock, reduced radiographic artifacts, and easier revisions. Although their use has been investigated thoroughly in the shoulder, there remains a paucity of literature regarding displacement and pull-out strength in the elbow.

The Impact of COVID-19 on the Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Fellowship Application Process

Over the last year, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread across the world as a global pandemic, bringing unprecedented changes to the healthcare landscape for patients and physicians. Medical trainees have been similarly affected, as medical schools throughout the United States have implemented remote learning-based curriculums and withdrawn third- and fourth-year students from in-hospital clerkships. Of particular importance is the impact of COVID-19 on current orthopaedic surgery residents applying to subspecialty fellowship programs. Because of the highly transmissible nature of the virus and current social distancing restrictions, orthopaedic sports medicine fellowship interviews are being held virtually during the 2020–2021 application cycle. This transition to videoconference interviewing may de-emphasize an applicant's unique personality or interpersonal interactions that are traditionally captured in a variety of settings during the interview day. In turn, this may lead to increased prioritization of various aspects of the application, such as the applicant’s residency program, letters of recommendation, and research productivity. Matching to a sports medicine fellowship program is an inherently competitive process and the COVID-19 pandemic presents novel challenges to orthopaedic residents in their efforts to successfully match. The purpose of this review is to describe the changes made to the orthopaedic sports medicine fellowship interview process resulting from COVID-19 during the 2020-2021 application cycle and discuss how these changes may impact the future fellowship application process. This review discusses the changes made to the orthopaedic sports medicine fellowship interview process caused by COVID-19 during the 2020–2021 application cycle. This review also assesses how such changes may impact the future application process and proposes potential adaptations to the current virtual interview format if it should become the new standard moving forward.

Biomechanical significance of the collateral ligaments in transolecranon fracture-dislocations

BACKGROUND

It is widely accepted that transolecranon fracture-dislocations are not associated with collateral ligament disruption. The aim of the present study was to investigate the significance of the collateral ligaments in transolecranon fractures.

METHODS

Twenty cadaveric elbows with a mean age of 46.3 years were used. All soft tissue was dissected to the level of the capsule, leaving the anterior band of the medial collateral ligament (MCL) and lateral collateral ligament (LCL) intact. A standardized, oblique osteotomy starting from the distal margin of the cartilage bare area of the ulna was made. The elbows were loaded with an inferiorly directed force of 5 and 10 N in the intact, MCL cut, LCL cut, and both ligaments cut states. All measurements were recorded on lateral calibrated radiographs.

RESULTS

The mean inferior translation with intact ligaments (n = 20) when the humerus was loaded with 5 and 10 N was 1.52 mm (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02-2.02) and 2.23 mm (95% CI, 1.61-2.85), respectively. When the LCL was cut first (n = 10), the inferior translation with 5 and 10 N load was 4.11 mm (95% CI, 0.95-7.26) and 4.82 mm (95% CI, 1.91-7.72), respectively. When the MCL was cut first (n = 10), the inferior translation when loaded with 5 and 10 N was 3.94 mm (95% CI, 0.796-7.08) and 5.68 mm (95% CI, 3.03-8.33), respectively. The inferior translation when loaded with 5 and 10 N and both ligaments cut was 15.65 mm (95% CI, 12.59-18.79) and 17.50 mm (95% CI, 14.86-20.13), respectively. There was a statistical difference between the intact and MCL cut first at 10 N and when both ligaments were cut at 5 and 10 N.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest that collateral ligament disruption is a prerequisite for a transolecranon fracture-dislocation. An inferior translation of more than 3 mm suggests that at least one of the collateral ligaments is disrupted, and more than 7.5 mm indicates that both collateral ligaments are disrupted.

Limited Predictive Value of the Instability Severity Index Score: Evaluation of 217 Consecutive Cases of Recurrent Anterior Shoulder Instability

PURPOSE

To review the existing variables and their ability to predict recurrence of shoulder instability as it relates to the Instability Severity Index Score (ISIS), as well as evaluate any other pertinent imaging and patient history variables that may impact risk of recurrent anterior instability after arthroscopic Bankart repair.

METHODS

All consecutive patients with recurrent anterior shoulder instability and who had arthroscopic instability repair were identified. Exclusion criteria were prior surgery on the shoulder, posterior or multidirectional instability, instability caused by seizure disorder, or a rotator cuff tear. All ISIS variables were recorded (age <20 years, sport type and level, hyperlaxity, Hill-Sachs on anteroposterior external rotation radiograph, loss of glenoid contour on anteroposterior radiograph), as well as additional variables: (1) number of instability events; (2) total time of instability; (3) glenoid bone loss (GBL) percent; and (4) Hill-Sachs measures (H/L/W/D/Volume). Postoperative outcomes were assessed based on the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) scores, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores, and recurrent anterior instability. Regression analysis was used to determine preoperative variables that predicted outcomes and failures.

RESULTS

There were 217 consecutive patients (209 male patients [96.5%], 8 female patients [3.5%]) who met the inclusion criteria and were all treated with a primary arthroscopic shoulder stabilization during a 3.5-year period (2007-2011), with a mean follow-up time of 42 months (range, 26-58). The mean age at first instability event was 23.9 years (range, 16-48 years) and the mean cumulative ISIS score for the overall group was 3.6 (range, 1-6). Outcomes were improved from mean preoperative (WOSI = 1,050/2,100; ASES = 61.0; SANE = 52.5) to postoperative (WOSI = 305/2,100; ASES = 93.5; SANE = 95.5). A total of 11.5% (25/217) of patients had evidence of recurrent instability (subluxation or dislocation). Additionally, all 25 patients who failed postoperatively also had consistently inferior ASES, SANE, and WOSI outcome scores when compared with successfully treated patients. Factors associated with failure were GBL greater than 14.5% (P < .001), total time of instability symptoms greater than 3 months (P = .03), Hill-Sachs volume greater than 1.3 cm³ (P = .02), contact sports participation (P = .05), and age 20 years or younger (P < .01). There was no correlation in outcomes with Hill-Sachs on presence of glenoid contour loss on radiograph (P = .07), participation sports, or ISIS (mean = 3.4 success vs 3.9 failure, P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

At a mean follow-up of 42 months was an 11.5% failure rate after arthroscopic Bankart stabilization surgery. This study shows no correlation between treatment outcome and the ISIS measure, given a mean score of 3.4 for the overall cohort with little difference identified in those who failed. However, several important parameters previously unidentified were detected including, GBL greater than 14.5%, Hill-Sachs volume greater than 1.3 cm³, and duration of instability symptoms (>3 months). The ISIS may need to be redesigned to incorporate variables that more accurately portray the actual risk of failure after arthroscopic stabilization, including quantification of both glenoid and humeral head bone loss.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III (Retrospective Case Series).

Multidirectional Shoulder Instability With Circumferential Labral Tear and Bony Reverse Hill Sachs: Treatment with 270° Labral Repair and Fresh Talus Osteochondral Allograft to the Humeral Head

Traumatic posterior dislocations of the shoulder can result in bony defects, labral tears, and cartilage injuries of the glenohumeral joint. Although traditional Hill-Sachs lesions from anterior dislocations are more commonly identified, reverse Hill-Sachs lesions caused by posterior dislocation often leads to recurrent engagement of the humeral head with the glenoid and significantly greater damage to the humeral chondral surface. In severe traumatic cases, concomitant damage of the capsulolabral soft tissues, such as circumferential labral lesions, can lead to chronic shoulder instability and residual glenoid bone loss. These lesions further add to the complexity of managing patients with posterior dislocations of the shoulder because of the challenges of achieving adequate anatomic reduction and tensioning of the capsulolabral junction, while also using a combination of arthroscopic and open-labral repair techniques. In the setting of reverse Hill-Sachs lesions treatment, it is important to address the bony and cartilage defect. The purpose of this Technical Note is to describe our preferred technique for arthroscopic repair of circumferential lesions of the glenoid labrum causing multidirectional instability with concomitant reverse Hill-Sachs Lesion treatment with fresh talus osteochondral allograft.

Surgical Treatment of Medial Gastrocnemius Tear

Medial gastrocnemius tears typically occur with forced dorsiflexion while the knee is extended. Myotendinous injuries occur most commonly, which are almost always treated without surgery. If a tendinous injury or avulsion occurs, nonoperative treatment should first be attempted. However, in patients where forceful plantar flexion is required for their desired activities or occupation, surgical fixation is an important treatment option. Postoperative bracing should be used to protect the repair with a graduated therapy progression, including range of motion followed by strengthening and return to activities. This technical note describes the technique for a safe and reliable medial gastrocnemius tendinous repair using two suture anchors.

Accuracy and Reliability of Imaging Modalities for the Diagnosis and Quantification of Hill-Sachs Lesions: A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

To determine the reliability and accuracy of different imaging modalities in assessing Hill-Sachs lesions within the setting of anterior shoulder instability.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines using the PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases. The inclusion criteria were clinical trials or cadaveric studies that assessed the accuracy of humeral head bone loss imaging or reliability and English-language articles. The exclusion criteria were animal studies; imaging studies without measures of accuracy, reliability, or clinical predictive power; studies of shoulder injuries without humeral head bone loss; editorials; abstracts; reviews; case reports; and surveys. The search terms included "imaging" OR "radiographic" OR "CT" OR "MRI" AND "Hill-Sachs" OR "humeral head bone loss." Assessment of the methodologic quality of the included studies was performed using the original Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS) tool.

RESULTS

Forty studies (2,560 shoulders) met the inclusion criteria and were assessed. For diagnosing the presence of Hill-Sachs lesions, computed tomography (CT) arthrography had the highest reported accuracy (median, 91%; range, 66%-100%). For the same assessment, CT arthrography also had the greatest reported sensitivity (median, 94%; range, 50%-100%). For the quantification of Hill-Sachs lesion parameters, reported intraobserver reliabilities were highest for 3-dimensional (3D) CT (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] range, 0.916-0.999), followed by 2-dimensional CT (ICC range, 0.858-0.861) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (ICC range, 0.28-0.97). For the same quantification parameters, interobserver reliabilities were also reported for 3D CT (ICC range, 0.772-0.996), 2-dimensional CT (ICC range, 0.721-0.879), and MRI (κ range, 0.444-0.700). Intraobserver reliabilities for determining glenoid tracking were only reported for 3D CT (κ range, 0.730-1.00; ICC range, 0.803-0.901) and MRI (ICC range, 0.770-0.790).

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that the current literature supports a variety of different imaging modalities that provide clinically acceptable accuracy in diagnosing and quantifying Hill-Sachs lesions, as well as determining whether they will cause persistent anterior shoulder instability. Furthermore, this systematic review justifies that further research is needed to help develop a treatment algorithm on the proper imaging modalities needed to help treat patients with anterior shoulder instability that is both reliable and financially acceptable.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Conversion of Failed Proximal Long Head of the Biceps Tenodesis to Distal Subpectoral Tenodesis: Outcomes in an Active Population

PURPOSE

To assess failure rates and patient reported outcomes following revision of failed proximal long head of the biceps (LHB) tenodesis.

METHODS

Patients from an active-military population who underwent revision proximal (suprapectoral) to distal (subpectoral) LHB tenodesis were prospectively enrolled. Patients were included if they were between the ages of 16 and 60 years presenting after a previous biceps tenodesis with mechanical failure and clinical failure, defined as Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) or American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) <70. Exclusion criteria were concomitant rotator cuff repair or debridement, full-thickness rotator cuff tear, extensive labral tears, or any evidence of glenohumeral arthritis. Pre- and postoperative SANE and ASES were documented and analyzed.

RESULTS

From 2004 to 2010, a total of 12 patients (all male) with a mean age of 39.9 years (range, 30-54 years) were assessed at a mean follow-up time of 29 months (range, 24-38 months). Nine patients presented with a failed tenodesis construct located at the top of the bicipital groove and 9 patients had LHB tendons originally affixed with an interference screw. Diagnostic arthroscopy revealed that the majority of patients (10/12) had excessive scarring at the site of previous fixation. Mean preoperative assessments of SANE (70.4) and ASES (59.9) improved postoperatively to SANE (90.3; P < .01) and ASES (89.8; P < .01). No patients were lost due to follow-up, and there were no reported complications or failures. All patients returned to full active duty and were able to perform all required physical tests before returning to their vocation.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients presenting with symptoms following a proximal LHB tenodesis can be successfully converted to a distal (subpectoral) LHB tenodesis with favorable outcomes. Although in a small sample, there was excessive scarring and synovitis in a majority, which improved significantly when treated with a revision subpectoral tenodesis with minimal complication risk and no reported failures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV (Therapeutic case series).

A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Biceps Tenodesis Fixation Strengths: Fixation Type and Location Are Biomechanically Equivalent

PURPOSE

The purpose of this meta-analysis and systematic review was to critically evaluate the biomechanical outcomes of different fixation constructs for a variety of biceps tenodesis techniques in cadaveric models based on both type of fixation and location.

METHODS

A PROSPERO-registered systematic review (CCRD42018109243) of the current literature was conducted with the terms "long head of biceps" AND "tenodesis" AND "biomechanics" and numerous variations thereof in the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases, yielding 1,460 abstracts. After screening by eligibility criteria, 18 full-text articles were included. The individual biomechanical factors evaluated included ultimate load to failure (in newtons), stiffness (in newtons per millimeter), and cyclic displacement (in millimeters). After reviewing the included literature, we performed a quality analysis of the studies (Quality Appraisal for Cadaveric Studies scale score) and a meta-analysis comparing raw mean differences in data between the suprapectoral and subpectoral fixation location groups, as well as between the fixation construct groups.

RESULTS

Among the 18 included studies, 347 cadaveric specimens were evaluated for ultimate load to failure, stiffness, and cyclic displacement when comparing both location (suprapectoral vs subpectoral) and tenodesis fixation type (interference screw vs cortical button, suture anchor, or all-soft-tissue techniques). Interference screw fixation showed significantly greater mean stiffness by 8.0 N/mm (P = .013) compared with the other grouped techniques but did not show significant differences when evaluated for ultimate load to failure and cyclic displacement (P = .28 and P = .18, respectively). Additionally, no difference in construct strength was seen when comparing the fixation strength of suprapectoral versus subpectoral techniques for stiffness, ultimate load to failure, and cyclic loading (P = .47, P = .053, and P = .13, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

In this meta-analysis, no significant biomechanical differences were found when the results were stratified by specific surgical technique (interference screw vs other tenodesis techniques) and location (suprapectoral vs subpectoral biceps tenodesis).

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

As a result of this study, when biomechanically evaluating specific tenodesis constructs, the individual clinician has the liberty of choosing the fixation technique based on his or her preference and knowledge of shortcomings of each type of fixation construct.

Latarjet Procedure With Coracoclavicular Ligament Augmentation for Traumatic Coracoid Fracture and Recurrent Anterior Glenohumeral Instability in an Elite Contact Athlete

Coracoid fractures are relatively uncommon injuries and are typically treated conservatively or with open reduction and internal fixation of displaced fractures. In rare cases, coracoid fractures coincide with glenohumeral instability. Although glenohumeral instability is frequently treated with Bankart procedures, the Latarjet procedure (or transfer of the coracoid process) is used in patients with significant glenoid bone loss, recurrent instability, or prior failed Bankart procedures. However, in some cases, surgeons opt for the Latarjet procedure in patients who are at risk for recurrent instability, such as the elite contact athlete presented in this case. This Technical Note describes the transfer of a previously fractured coracoid fragment to the anterior glenoid rather than reduction of the fracture with concurrent coracoclavicular ligament augmentation to restore anterior shoulder stability.

Risk Factors for Recurrent Anterior Glenohumeral Instability and Clinical Failure Following Primary Latarjet Procedures: An Analysis of 344 Patients

BACKGROUND

Patients with a greater risk of recurrent instability and inferior clinical outcomes following a primary Latarjet procedure can be preoperatively identified on the basis of clinical, radiographic, and demographic criteria. The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors influencing the rates of recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability and clinical failure following a primary Latarjet procedure.

METHODS

All patients who underwent a primary Latarjet procedure were prospectively enrolled and evaluated. The Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI) and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) outcome scores were collected at a minimum 5-year follow-up along with evidence of recurrent instability. Recurrent instability (recurrent subluxation or dislocation) was considered as a failure. Clinical failure was defined as a postoperative WOSI score of ≥630 points (≤70% normal) or a SANE score of ≤70 points.

RESULTS

From 2004 to 2014, 344 patients (358 shoulders) with a mean age of 30.6 years (range, 16 to 68 years) were enrolled and had a mean follow-up time of 75 months (range, 61 to 89 months). The median postoperative WOSI score was 265 points (range, 0 to 1,100 points), and the median SANE score was 88 points (range, 50 to 100 points). Recurrence occurred in 17 shoulders (4.7%), 5 with dislocation and 12 with subluxation; and 28 (8.2%) of 341 shoulders without recurrent instability were clinical failures following a Latarjet procedure. The risk factors for recurrence included atraumatic dislocation (odds ratio [OR], 4.6; p < 0.01) and bilateral instability (OR, 4.0; p = 0.01), whereas the risk factors for clinical failure (WOSI score of ≥630 points or SANE score of ≤70 points) were female sex (OR, 2.8; p < 0.01) and bilateral instability (OR, 4.6; p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Outcomes at a mean of >6 years following a primary Latarjet procedure for anterior shoulder instability were very good, with an overall recurrence rate of 4.7%. An additional 8.2% of cases were defined as clinical failures. Patients with an atraumatic mechanism of primary dislocation, bilateral instability, and female sex were identified to be at a greater risk of recurrence or clinical failure. Although additional work is necessary, patients with capsuloligamentous laxity, relatively atraumatic instability history, bilateral instability, and female sex may be preoperatively identified as having a higher risk of treatment failure after a primary Latarjet procedure.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Risk Factors for Recurrence After Arthroscopic Instability Repair-The Importance of Glenoid Bone Loss >15%, Patient Age, and Duration of Symptoms: A Matched Cohort Analysis

BACKGROUND

Glenoid bone loss (GBL) has been implicated as a risk factor for failure of arthroscopic anterior glenohumeral instability repair. Although certain amounts of GBL are associated with higher recurrence rates, there are limited studies on successes versus failures in these cohorts.

PURPOSE

To compare the outcomes of arthroscopic Bankart repair in patients with and without GBL to determine a threshold percentage of GBL that predicts success.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

All consecutive patients who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair for anterior shoulder instability between 2004 and 2013 were prospectively enrolled. Patients with ≤25% GBL were included. Patients with no GBL were grouped and compared with those having 5% to 25% GBL. Outcomes included Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation, Western Ontario Shoulder Index, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores, with evidence of recurrent instability. Patients with and without GBL were statistically compared with respect to outcomes and recurrence rates.

RESULTS

Of 434 eligible patients, the cases of 405 (45 female, 360 male; mean age, 27.5 years [range, 18-47 years]) were followed for a mean 61 months (range, 48-96 months). There were 189 (46.6%) with no GBL and 216 (53.3%) with GBL; the mean GBL of the latter cohort was 15% (range, 5%-25%). The mean duration of instability symptoms was 7.9 months (range, 1-21 months) and was significantly longer in the GBL group (P < .05). The mean recurrence rate was 14.8%, which was significantly greater in patients presenting with GBL versus those with none (48/216 [22.2%] vs 12/189 [6.3%]; P < .01). Within the GBL group, GBL ≥15%, duration of symptoms >5 months, and younger age (<20 years) were independent risk factors for failure (P < .01). Patients with any GBL had >4-times greater odds of recurrence after arthroscopic stabilization (odds ratio, 4.21; 95% CI, 2.16-8.21). Moreover, patients presenting for arthroscopic Bankart repair with GBL ≥15% had nearly 3-times greater odds of recurrent instability.

CONCLUSION

GBL ≥15% in an active patient population portends to increased odds of recurrent instability events and inferior clinical outcomes after arthroscopic Bankart repair. Furthermore, nonmodifiable risk factors, such as age (<20 years) and duration of symptoms before presentation (>5 months), significantly affect risk of recurrence and should be key factors when counseling patients on risk of failure and determining the ideal procedure for the individual patient.

Arthroscopic Labral Repair of the Hip Using a Self-Grasping Suture-Passing Device: Maintaining the Chondrolabral Junction

In the setting of femoroacetabular impingement, the acetabular labrum may be torn or pathologic, and it must be surgically repaired to restore the native suction seal and hip function. However, the current methods of arthroscopic suture passage commonly result in some degree of disruption of the chondrolabral junction, with penetration and shuttling of the repair sutures. Novel instrumentation and surgical techniques have aimed to repair the acetabular labrum with decreased violation of the intrasubstance fibers to provide anatomic eversion/inversion of the labrum to restore the suction seal. In this Technical Note, we describe a method of suture passage through the use of a self-grasping suture-passing device that allows for anatomic labral repair while maintaining the chondrolabral junction as well as minimizing iatrogenic damage the labrum intrasubstance fibers.

Quantitative and Qualitative Analyses of the Glenohumeral Ligaments: An Anatomic Study

BACKGROUND

While several studies have qualitatively described the anatomy of the glenohumeral ligaments, there remains a lack of consensus regarding their quantitative humeral and glenoid attachment sites.

PURPOSE

To quantitatively and qualitatively describe the anatomic humeral and glenoid attachment sites of the glenohumeral ligaments and their relationship to well-established anatomic landmarks.

STUDY DESIGN

Descriptive laboratory study.

METHODS

A total of 10 nonpaired, fresh-frozen human cadaveric shoulders were included in this study. A 3-dimensional coordinate measuring device was used to quantify the location of pertinent bony landmarks and soft tissue attachment areas. All subcutaneous tissues and musculature were removed, with the exception of the rotator cuff (respective muscle bellies cut at their musculotendinous junctions) and the long head of the biceps tendon. The superior glenohumeral ligament (SGHL), middle glenohumeral ligament (MGHL), anteroinferior glenohumeral ligament (AIGHL), posteroinferior glenohumeral ligament (PIGHL), and coracohumeral ligament (CHL) were then transected. Coordinates of points along the perimeters of attachment sites were used to calculate areas, while coordinates of center points were used to determine distances between surgically relevant attachment sites and pertinent bony landmarks.

RESULTS

The mean length of the SGHL humeral attachment along the intra-articular cartilage margin was 9.5 ± 3.2 mm, spanning from 12:55 to 1:40, while the SGHL glenoid attachment to the labrum was 1.9 ± 1.2 mm medial to the most lateral extent of the labral rim, spanning from 12:30 to 12:45. The mean length of the MGHL attachment along the intra-articular cartilage margin was 16.4 ± 3.0 mm, equating to 2:10 to 3:35 on the humeral head clockface, and the glenoid attachment was confluent with the labrum, attaching 1.5 ± 1.0 mm medial to the most lateral extent of the labral rim and thus extending from 1:50 to 2:35 on the glenoid clockface. The mean length of the AIGHL attachment along the intra-articular cartilage margin was 12.0 ± 3.0 mm, spanning from 4:05 to 5:10 on the humeral head clockface. The AIGHL bony footprint on the glenoid neck was 48.4 ± 24.5 mm². The confluent attachment of the AIGHL to the labrum was 1.2 ± 0.9 mm medial to the most lateral extent of the labral rim, corresponding to 3:30 to 4:05 on the glenoid clockface. The mean length of the PIGHL attachment along the intra-articular cartilage margin was 12.0 ± 1.4 mm, spanning from 7:40 to 8:50 on the humeral head clockface. The PIGHL attachment to the labrum was 1.2 ± 0.5 mm medial to the most lateral extent of the labral rim. This attachment to the labrum was calculated to span from 7:35 to 8:50 on the glenoid clockface. The mean length of the CHL origin from the coracoid was 12.9 mm, with its most anterior point located a mean of 14.1 mm from the tip of the coracoid. The mean length of the CHL attachment along the intra-articular cartilage margin was 10.0 ± 4.0 mm, spanning from 11:55 to 12:40 on the humeral head clockface.

CONCLUSION

Glenohumeral ligaments were consistently identified in all specimens with minor anatomic variability for the SGHL, MGHL, AIGHL, and PIGHL. Important landmarks including the cartilage surface of the humerus, the bicipital groove, and the clockface can be utilized intraoperatively when attempting anatomic repair of these structures.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

There are multiple open and arthroscopic shoulder procedures that rely on anatomic restoration of these static stabilizers to provide optimal shoulder function and prevent recurrent instability. The qualitative descriptions are comparable with current literature; however, this study is the first to quantify the glenohumeral capsular and ligamentous attachments. The data provided allow for reliable landmarks to be established from known bony and soft tissue structures.

Glenoid Track Instability Management Score: Radiographic Modification of the Instability Severity Index Score

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is (1) to test the proposed treatment algorithm, the Glenoid Track Instability Management Score (GTIMS), which incorporates the glenoid track concept into the instability severity index score (ISIS), and (2) to compare treatment decision-making using either GTIMS versus ISIS in 2 cohorts of patients with operatively treated anterior instability.

METHODS

A multicenter, retrospective review of two consecutive groups consisting of 72 and 189 patients treated according to ISIS and GTIMS, respectively, was conducted. Inclusion criteria for all patients were ≥2 confirmed traumatic anterior shoulder instability events and a physical examination demonstrating a positive anterior apprehension and relocation test. The GTIMS was graded for all 189 patients in the cohort, which uses 3-dimensional computed tomography as the sole radiographic parameter to assess on-track (0 points) versus off-track (4 points) Hill-Sachs lesions. This method differs from ISIS, which uses multiple plain radiographs for the 4-point imaging portion of the score. Outcomes scores were compared within the GTIMS and ISIS groups, as well as between them for overall comparisons based on the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI), the Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation (SANE) score, and the mean rates of recurrent instability.

RESULTS

A total of 261 consecutive patients from 2009 to 2014 who presented with recurrent anterior shoulder instability were treated according to either ISIS (n = 72/261, 27.6%) or GTIMS (n = 189/261, 72.4%). At a mean follow-up time of 33.2 months (range 24-49 months), the overall cohort mean ISIS of 2.9 ± 2.2 (range 0-9) was significantly higher than the mean GTIMS of 1.9 ± 1.9 (range = 0-9, P < .001). Of the 72 ISIS treated patients, 50 (69.4%) had an ISIS score of ≥ 4 and underwent a Latarjet, and the 22 patients (30.6%) with an ISIS score of < 4 underwent an arthroscopic Bankart repair. Based on GTIMS in the 189-patient cohort, using the same cutoff of 4 to indicate the need for a Latarjet, 162 patients were treated with arthroscopic Bankart repair (85.7%) and 27 with Latarjet (14.3%). The overall outcomes improved for patients treated with a Latarjet in both groups (GTIMS WOSI from 1099 [47.7% normal] to 395 [81.3% normal]; GTIMS SANE from 48 to 81; ISIS WOSI from 1050 [50% normal] to 345 [83.4% normal]; ISIS SANE from 50 to 84; P < .01). Similar positive outcomes were seen in patients treated with arthroscopic Bankart repair (GTIMS WOSI from 1062 [49.2% normal] to 402 [80.6% normal]; GTIMS SANE from 49 to 82; ISIS WOSI from 1080 [51.8% normal] to 490 [76.7% normal]; ISIS SANE from 48 to 77; P < .01). Of note, the patients with arthroscopically indicated ISIS had significantly worse outcomes scores than those treated arthroscopically according to GTIMS (P < .01). Of the 189 patients graded with GTIMS, there would have been 33 more Latarjet procedures recommended based on ISIS score. Thus the distribution of procedures based on ISIS versus GTIMS was significantly different (χ² = 45.950; P < .001), indicating a higher rate of recommending Latarjets when using ISIS versus GTIMS.

CONCLUSIONS

When ISIS scoring and plain radiograph parameters only are used, this predicted a 2-fold increase in recommending a Latarjet versus GTIMS scoring criteria, which uses advanced imaging and the on- and off-track principle to more conservatively delineate anterior instability treatment with promising postoperative patient outcomes. Overall, there were minimal differences in outcomes between GTIMS and ISIS Latarjet patients; however, better outcomes were seen in patients indicated for arthroscopic Bankart repair according to GTIMS and on-off track computed tomography scanning indications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II, Prospective Cohort Study.

Outcomes of Primary Biceps Subpectoral Tenodesis in an Active Population: A Prospective Evaluation of 101 Patients

PURPOSE

To evaluate the surgical outcomes of a primary subpectoral biceps tenodesis for long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) pathology in a large cohort of prospectively, serially collected, patients in a young active population that has known high physical demands and requirements of their shoulder to perform their vocation.

METHODS

A retrospective review of prospectively collected data from an active military personnel with a diagnosis of a Type II SLAP tear or biceps tenosynovitis was performed. Outcomes were evaluated at a minimum follow-up time of 18 months based on preoperative and postoperative assessments of the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, Western Ontario Rotator Cuff index, biceps position, and return to active duty. Inclusion criteria were (1) SLAP tears on magnetic resonance arthrogram (classified into SLAP group), and (2) no SLAP tear but examination findings of biceps tendonitis (placed in the LHBT tendonitis group). Patients were excluded for full-thickness rotator cuff tears, high-grade partial thickness tears requiring repair, acromioclavicular joint pathology, and labral pathology outside of the SLAP lesion. Patients from both groups subsequently were treated with open, subpectoral tenodesis.

RESULTS

Over a 6-year period at a mean follow-up of 2.75 years (range 1.5-5.7 years), 125 active-duty military personnel with mean age of 42.6 years (range 26.3-56.5) were enrolled. A total of 101 of 125 patients (81%) completed study requirements at a mean of 2.75 years (range 1.5-5.7 years). In total, 40 patients were diagnosed with type II SLAP tears (39.6%) and 61 with biceps tendonitis without SLAP tear (60.4%). Following open, subpectoral tenodesis, there was a significant improvement in patient outcomes (Western Ontario Rotator Cuff = 54% preoperative vs 89% postoperative, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation = 58 preoperative vs 89.5 postoperative, P < .01). In total, 82% of patients returned to full activity at a mean of 4.1 months. The biceps muscle measured relative to the antecubital fossa of operative (mean 3.20 cm) versus nonoperative (3.11 cm) was not clinically different (P = .57). There was an 8% complication rate, including 3 requiring revision, 2 superficial infections, and 3 transient neurapraxias.

CONCLUSIONS

Primary subpectoral open biceps tenodesis for SLAP tears or pathology of the LHBT provides significant improvement in shoulder outcomes with a reliable return to activity level with low risk for complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV (Case series).

Distal Clavicular Augmentation with Acromioclavicular and Coracoclavicular Ligament Reconstruction in the Setting of Iatrogenic Induced Acromioclavicular Instability

Although chronic pain and dysfunction of the acromioclavicular (AC) joint can reliably be treated with distal clavicle excision, disruption of the local stabilizing ligamentous structures may result in iatrogenic instability of the joint. Iatrogenic AC joint instability is a rare condition caused by over resection of the distal clavicle with unintended injury to the stabilizing ligaments in the treatment of AC joint pain. Addressing postresection instability can prove to be difficult because most reconstruction techniques are intended for patients with traumatic AC joint instability with the goal of creating an anatomically stable joint. However, in the setting of iatrogenic instability, the decreased bone stock of the distal clavicle results in instability of the AC joint, especially in the horizontal plane, and may cause these techniques to fail. Thus, operative management must aim to correct both the osseous and ligamentous deficits responsible for the genesis of this instability. In this Technical Note, we describe bony augmentation of the distal clavicle with an iliac crest bone autograft for chronic iatrogenic acromioclavicular joint instability with concomitant reconstruction of the AC and coracoclavicular ligaments.

Location of the Glenoid Defect in Shoulders With Recurrent Posterior Glenohumeral Instability

BACKGROUND

Posterior glenoid bone deficiency is an increasingly recognized entity in the setting of recurrent posterior shoulder instability; however, little is known about the subject. Due to the paucity of literature on posterior bone loss, historical comparisons with anterior bone loss may not be fully accurate.

PURPOSE

To systematically describe the morphology of posterior bone defects in the setting of recurrent posterior shoulder instability based on several quantitative parameters, including the mean location, orientation, and extent of bone loss on a clockface model, as well as the angle of the defect relative to the long axis of the glenoid.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Three-dimensional reconstructed computed tomography scans of serially collected patients with a history of recurrent posterior shoulder instability were evaluated by 3 separate reviewers. The posterior glenoid bone defect was characterized using the following measures: (1) the mean lesion location and orientation based on a clockface model with 6 o'clock denoted as inferior and 9 o'clock as directly posterior for all patients; (2) the total extent of the posterior bone defect based on the clockface; and (3) the average angle of the bone loss relative to the long axis of the glenoid.

RESULTS

A total of 70 male patients and 1 female patient with a mean age of 29.3 years (range, 24.4-35.1 years) were included in the analysis. The mean clockface location of the posterior glenoid defect originated at 6:44 (range, 4:16-8:12) and extended to a mean of 9:28 (range, 7:02-10:38). The mean extent of the posterior glenoid defect was 2:43 (range, 1:08-4:50), which corresponds to a mean total bone loss arc of 81.5° (range, 34.2°-144.9°), nearly 1 quadrant of the glenoid. Posterior bone loss occurred in a posteroinferior direction at a mean angle of 30.7° (range, 8.0°-80.0°) relative to the long axis of the glenoid.

CONCLUSION

Posterior bone defects in the setting of posterior shoulder instability most commonly occur in the posteroinferior quadrant of the glenoid and extend on average from 6:44 to 9:28 (81.5° total degrees of arc) on a clockface model. Posterior bone loss occurs at a mean of 30° off the long axis of the glenoid in a posteroinferior direction, which is historically different from anterior bone loss, which occurs parallel to the long axis of the glenoid. This study serves to highlight the location and orientation of bone loss that one can expect in a patient with recurrent posterior shoulder instability, although additional work is needed to assess why this develops.

Acromioclavicular and Coracoclavicular Ligament Reconstruction for Acromioclavicular Joint Instability

Numerous operative techniques have been described for acromioclavicular and coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction for the treatment of acromioclavicular joint instability. Injuries of this nature are commonly sustained by contact-sport athletes in high-impact collisions or falls. Traumatic injury to the acromioclavicular joint and ligamentous structures can range in severity, as can the degree of subsequent joint instability. Injuries classified between Type I and Type III are generally treated nonoperatively, whereas Type-IV injuries may be treated similarly to the treatment described in this article for Type-V injuries. The use of free tendon grafts in conjunction with suspensory devices has demonstrated reliable postoperative outcomes and low rates of unplanned reoperation. We present a surgical technique involving harvest of a semitendinosus autograft from the hamstrings, in addition to allograft augmentation. These free tendon grafts reestablish acromioclavicular joint stability following Rockwood Type-V or VI injuries to the joint. Note that there are differences in the outcomes of free tendon graft, suspensory devices, and modified Weaver-Dunn techniques commonly used to treat acromioclavicular joint instability. Although comparable outcomes have been reported for these modalities, treatment with hook plates and Kirschner wires has demonstrated the highest complication rates when used with this procedure. The Weaver-Dunn technique has been found to yield the lowest postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores among the aforementioned techniques. Additionally, although other procedures may be less invasive, this technique is beneficial because it reinforces horizontal stability in addition to the vertical stability provided by other procedures, resulting in optimal overall shoulder stability. The procedure is performed as follows: (1) harvest the semitendinosus hamstring autograft, (2) dissect the acromioclavicular joint and prepare the acromion by passing sutures through a drilled tunnel, (3) prepare the coracoid in a fashion similar to that of the acromion, (4) prepare the clavicle and establish the trapezoid-clavicular attachment using an AC TightRope (Arthrex), (5) reduce the clavicle via contraction of the AC TightRope, (6) pass grafts and perform fixation of the trapezoid, (7) perform fixation of the acromioclavicular and conoid ligaments, and (8) skin closure with sutures. We acknowledge the inherent potential for complications when performing this procedure, and this is addressed at the appropriate points of concern throughout the video.

Characterization of Posterior Glenoid Bone Loss Morphology in Patients With Posterior Shoulder Instability

PURPOSE

To systemically describe posterior bone defects in the setting of posterior shoulder instability based on several parameters, including surface area, slope and version, defect height from the base of the glenoid, and extent of bone loss at equal intervals along the long axis of the fossa.

METHODS

A total of 40 young, active individuals with recurrent posterior shoulder instability and a bony injury confirmed on either computed tomography (n = 18; mean age, 26.3 ± 4.0 years) or magnetic resonance imaging (n = 22; mean age, 20.0 ± 4.9 years) were identified. The posterior glenoid bone defect was characterized using the following measures: (1) percentage of bone loss, (2) glenoid vault version, (3) slope of the posterior defect relative to the glenoid surface, (4) superior-inferior length of the defect, and (5) anterior-posterior width of the defect at 5 intervals along the glenoid fossa.

RESULTS

The mean age of the 40 patients was 22.9 ± 5.5 years (range, 14.9-35.5 years). The mean surface area of glenoid bone loss was 9.7% ± 4.7%. Glenoid version measured at 5 equal intervals along the inferior two-thirds of the glenoid was 12.8° ± 4.9°, 11.9° ± 5.0°, 10.1° ± 6.3°, 10.5° ± 6.5°, and 8.7° ± 7.2° from superior to inferior. The mean slope of the posterior defect relative to the glenoid fossa was 26.8° ± 11.5°. The mean superior-inferior height of the bony defect was 21.9 ± 0.4 mm. The anterior-posterior sloped width of the defect at 5 equal intervals along the glenoid fossa was 0.9 ± 1.5 mm, 2.8 ± 2.4 mm, 4.0 ± 1.7 mm, 4.0 ± 2.1 mm, and 2.9 ± 2.6 mm from superior to inferior. Low-grade (<10%) bone loss was diagnosed in most shoulders (23 of 40 evaluated), whereas 15 had moderate bone loss (10% to <20%) and 2 had high-grade bone loss (≥20%).

CONCLUSIONS

Posterior glenoid bone loss is characterized by a loss of posterior bony concavity, increased slope from anterior to posterior, and increased posterior version. The most anterior-posterior sloped width was quantified at the third and fourth intervals of 5 equal intervals from superior to inferior. This study highlights that patients with posterior instability have bone loss that is sloped relative to the glenoid fossa and suggests that management must be appropriately tailored given the distinctiveness of posterior bone loss.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, case series.

Management of the Failed Latarjet Procedure: Outcomes of Revision Surgery With Fresh Distal Tibial Allograft

BACKGROUND

Patients with recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability after a failed Latarjet procedure remain a challenge to address. Complications related to this procedure include large amounts of bone loss, bone resorption, and issues with retained hardware that necessitate the need for revision surgery.

PURPOSE

To determine the outcomes of patients who underwent revision surgery for a recurrent shoulder instability after a failed Latarjet procedure with fresh distal tibial allograft.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

All consecutive patients who underwent revision of a failed Latarjet procedure with distal tibial allograft were prospectively enrolled. Patients were included if they had physical examination findings consistent with recurrent anterior shoulder instability. Patients were excluded if they had prior neurologic injury, a seizure disorder, bone graft requirements to the humeral head, or findings of multidirectional or posterior instability. History of shoulder instability was documented, including initial dislocation history, duration of instability, number of prior surgeries, examination findings, plain radiographic and computed tomography (CT) data, and arthritis graded with Samilson and Prieto (SP) classification. All patients were treated with hardware removal, capsular release with subsequent repair, and fresh distal tibial allograft to the glenoid. Outcomes before and after revision were assessed according to the American Shoulder and Elbow Score (ASES), Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation (SANE), and Western Ontario Shoulder Index (WOSI) and statistically compared. All patients underwent a CT scan of the distal tibial allograft at a minimum 4 months after surgery.

RESULTS

There were 31 patients enrolled (all males), with a mean age of 25.5 years (range, 19-38 years) and a mean follow-up time of 47 months (range, 36-60 months) after revision with distal tibial allograft. Before distal tibial allograft augmentation, the mean percentage glenoid bone loss was 30.3% (range, 25%-49%). All patients after their Latarjet stabilization had recurrent shoulder dislocation (11/31, 35.5%) or subluxation (20/31, 64.5%), and all patients had symptoms consistent with recurrent shoulder instability upon physical examination. Radiographs demonstrated 2 fixation screws in all cases, mean SP grade was 0.5 (range, 0-3), and CT scans revealed that a mean 78% of the Latarjet coracoid graft had resorbed (range, 37%-100%). Patient-reported outcome scores improved significantly pre- to postoperatively for ASES (40 to 92, P = .001), SANE (44 to 91, P = .001), and WOSI (1300 to 310, P = .001). There were no cases of recurrence, and a final CT scan of the distal tibial revision demonstrated a complete union at the glenoid-distal tibial allograft interface in 92% of patients.

CONCLUSION

The majority of the failed Latarjet procedures included in this study had near-complete resorption of the coracoid graft and hardware complications. At a minimum follow-up time of 36 months, patients who underwent revision treatment for a failed Latarjet procedure with a fresh distal tibial allograft demonstrated excellent clinical outcomes and near-complete osseous union at the glenoid-allograft interface. Although patients evaluated with recurrent anterior shoulder instability after a failed Latarjet procedure remain a challenge to address, fresh distal tibial allograft augmentation is a viable and highly effective revision procedure to treat this patient population.

Alternative Management of the Capsule in the Bristow-Latarjet Procedure

The Bristow-Latarjet procedure is considered the current gold standard for the management of anterior glenohumeral joint instability in which significant glenoid bone loss is present, and numerous techniques have been proposed for capsular management after the bony augmentation component of the procedure. These techniques for capsular management include excision of the capsule and labrum, 2-flap elevation, T-capsulotomy, or an L-shaped incision into the capsule. Capsular management during open shoulder procedures may vary among surgeons and may or may not include capsulolabral repair after the Bristow-Latarjet procedure. The purpose of this Technical Note was to illustrate an alternative approach to capsular management, focusing on the elevation of the capsulolabral complex as a sleeve along with augmentation using the coracoacromial ligament during the Bristow-Latarjet procedure in patients with anterior glenohumeral instability. The proposed technique provides the benefit of improvement in visualization to more reliably identify the ideal location for bone block placement and allows for the surgeon to perform a large inferior-to-superior capsular shift to prevent inferior subluxation or instability.

Chronic Instability and Pain of the Sternoclavicular Joint: Treatment With Semitendinosus Allograft to Restore Joint Stability

Chronic instability of the sternoclavicular (SC) joint is a challenging clinical problem, particularly in a patient population for which nonoperative forms of treatment prove ineffective. Patients present after experiencing recurrent subluxation events and subsequent pain, which commonly result in increasing functional limitation. Recurrent SC joint instability of this nature can lead to damage of the SC joint cartilage and bone, and in cases of posterior subluxation or dislocation, damage to mediastinal structures. While the precise treatment algorithm requires tailoring to individual patients and their respective pathologies, we have demonstrated successful outcomes in correcting chronic SC joint instability by means of SC joint reconstruction with semitendinosus allograft, SC joint capsular reconstruction, and, in cases of arthritic damage, resection of a small portion of the degenerative component of the medial clavicle. The purpose of this Technical Note is to describe a technique that uses a semitendinosus allograft to stabilize the SC joint combined with a capsular reconstruction in patients who have previously failed nonoperative treatment methods.

Multidirectional Shoulder Instability With Bone Loss and Prior Failed Latarjet Procedure: Treatment With Fresh Distal Tibial Allograft and Modified T-Plasty Open Capsular Shift

Recurrent multidirectional shoulder instability (MDI) is a challenging clinical problem, particularly in the setting of connective tissue diseases, and there is a distinct lack of literature discussing strategies for operative management of this unique patient group. These patients frequently present with significant glenoid bone loss, patulous and abnormal capsulolabral structures, and a history of multiple failed arthroscopic or open instability procedures. Although the precise treatment algorithm requires tailoring to the individual patient, we have shown successful outcomes in correcting recurrent MDI in the setting of underlying connective tissue disorders by means of a modified T-plasty capsular shift and rotator interval closure in conjunction with distal tibial allograft bony augmentation. The purpose of this Technical Note was to describe a technique that combines a fresh distal tibial allograft for glenoid bony augmentation with a modified T-plasty capsular shift and rotator interval closure for the management of recurrent shoulder MDI in patients presenting with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or other connective tissue disorders after failed Latarjet stabilization.

Primary Acromioclavicular-Coracoclavicular Reconstruction Using 2 Allografts, TightRope, and Stabilization to the Acromion

Acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries are a common cause of shoulder pain, particularly among young athletes participating in contact sports. Injuries to the AC joint most commonly occur from direct impact at the acromion and are classified as types I to VI. Although most AC joint injuries can be treated nonoperatively, types IV to VI are best treated with surgery, with type III being controversial and most surgeons recommending an initial trial of nonoperative treatment. Although numerous surgical techniques have been described, no gold standard technique has been established. Biomechanical testing suggests that anatomic reconstruction of both the AC and coracoclavicular ligaments results in a superior surgical construct. The objective of this Technical Note is to describe our preferred technique for the primary treatment of AC joint instability in the acute and chronic setting. Using 2 free tendon grafts in combination with a cortical button suspensory device combines the advantages of a nonrigid biologic and anatomic AC and coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction while benefiting from the strength of a cortical suspensory device in resisting displacement of the AC joint.

Editorial Commentary: Rotator Interval Closure of the Shoulder Continues to Be a Challenge in Consensus on Treatment

In discussions of repair or plication of rotator interval capsular tissue and the respective surgical techniques, there is great variability in the procedures used to accomplish this, as well as a lack of consensus in defining rotator interval closure and the complex associated anatomy. The concept of rotator interval closure and how it is performed has shown wide variation and numerous definitions. In the future, it is recommended that one truly define what type of closure is performed, what tissues are imbricated, and where these tissues are imbricated, because both medial and lateral imbrications around the joint can have significant differences in terms of rotation, stability, and overall efficacy. Through this work, we can improve diagnostic capabilities, as well as examination capabilities, and better delineate the overall rotator interval closure procedure based on diagnostic and clinical findings. In this manner, we will be better able to define when rotator interval closure is necessary and most beneficial to patients. In our opinion, clinical indications for rotator interval closure are as follows: (1) multidirectional instability with increased capsular volume, (2) anterior instability-and especially a failed arthroscopic instability repair-that could benefit from imbrication of the coracohumeral ligament, (3) a sulcus that persists in external rotation in the setting of symptomatic instability, and (4) posterior instability with a multidirectional component.