Ninety-day complication rate based on 532 Latarjet procedures in Dutch hospitals with different operation volumes

BACKGROUND

In this study, we aimed to provide insight into the 90-day complication rates following the Latarjet procedure. Data from 2015 were collected from multiple hospitals in the Netherlands, with different volumes of Latarjet procedures. Our second aim was to examine which patient and surgical factors were associated with complications.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective chart review of 13 hospitals between 2015 and 2022. Data regarding complications within 90 days of Latarjet procedures were extracted. The effect of sex, age, body mass index (BMI), smoking, previous shoulder operations, fixation material, hospital volume, screw size, and operation time on the complication rate was assessed by multivariable logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Of the 532 included patients, 58 (10.9%) had complications. The most common complications were material failure (n = 19, 3.6%) and nerve injury (n = 13, 2.4%). The risk of complications was lower for male patients than for female patients (odds ratio, 0.40; 95% confidence interval, 0.21-0.77; P = .006). Age, BMI, smoking, previous shoulder operations, type of fixation material, hospital volume, screw size, and operation time were not associated with complications.

CONCLUSION

The 90-day complication rate after the Latarjet procedure was 10.9% and was higher in female patients than in male patients. Age, BMI, smoking, previous shoulder operations, type of fixation material, hospital volume, screw size, and operation time did not affect complication rates. We advise setting up a national registry to prevent under-reporting of complications.

[Shoulder complaints]

Shoulder complaints are a very prevalent condition and a significant cause of morbidity and disability. Most patients with shoulder complaints are primarily seen by general physicians. The guideline, as developed by the Dutch College of General Physicians (NHG) in 2019, formulates a basic algorithm to start early conservative management of shoulder complaints. This article describes several causes of shoulder complaints more extensively and offers possible tools to obtain a more precise diagnosis. With a better knowledge of the multiple causes of shoulder complaints, most shoulder complaints can be adequately managed by general physicians, thus preventing unnecessary referrals.

Trends in Practice Among Shoulder Specialists in the Management of Frozen Shoulder: A Consensus Survey

Background:

The management of frozen shoulder (FS) differs depending on experience level and variation between scientific guidelines and actual practice.

Purpose:

To determine the current trends and practices in the management of FS among shoulder specialists and compare them with senior shoulder specialists.

Study Design:

Consensus statement.

Methods:

A team of 15 senior shoulder specialists (faculty group) prepared a questionnaire comprising 26 questions regarding the definition, terminology, clinical signs, investigations, management, and prognosis of FS. The questionnaire was mailed to all the registered shoulder specialists of Shoulder and Elbow Society, India (SESI) (specialist group; n = 230), as well as to the faculty group (n = 15). The responses of the 2 groups were compared, and levels of consensus were determined: strong (>75%), broad (60%-74.9%), inconclusive (40%-59.9%), or disagreement (<40%).

Result:

Overall, 142 of the 230 participants in the specialist group and all 15 participants in the faculty group responded to the survey. Both groups strongly agreed that plain radiographs are required to rule out a secondary cause of FS, routine magnetic resonance imaging is not indicated to confirm FS, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should be administered at bedtime, steroid injection (triamcinolone or methylprednisolone) is the next best option if analgesics fail to provide pain relief, passive physical therapy should be avoided in the freezing phase, <10% of patients would require any surgical intervention, and patients with diabetes and thyroid dysfunction tend to fare poorly. There was broad agreement that routine thyroid dysfunction screening is unnecessary for women, a single 40-mg steroid injection via intra-articular route is preferred, and arthroscopic capsular release (ACR) results in a better outcome than manipulation under anesthesia (MUA). Agreement was inconclusive regarding the use of combined random blood sugar (RBS) and glycosylated hemoglobin versus lone RBS to screen for diabetes in patients with FS, preference of ACR versus MUA to treat resistant FS, and the timing of surgical intervention. There was disagreement over the most appropriate term for FS, the preferred physical therapy modality for pain relief, the most important movement restriction for early diagnosis of FS, and complications seen after MUA.

Conclusion:

This survey summarized the trend in prevalent practices regarding FS among the shoulder specialists and senior shoulder surgeons of SESI.

Shoulder kinematics and muscle activity following latissimus dorsi transfer for massive irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears in shoulders with pseudoparalysis

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the thoracohumeral (TH) and glenohumeral (GH) motion with muscle activity after latissimus dorsi transfer (LDT) in a shoulder with a massive irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tear (MIRT) and pseudoparalysis compared with the asymptomatic contralateral shoulder (ACS).

METHODS

We recruited and evaluated 13 patients after LDT in a shoulder with preoperative clinical pseudoparalysis and an MIRT on magnetic resonance imaging, with a minimum follow-up period of 1 year, and with a Hamada stage of 3 or less. Three-dimensional electromagnetic tracking was used to assess shoulder active range of motion in both the LDT shoulder and the ACS. The maximal active elevation of the shoulder (MAES) was assessed and consisted of forward flexion, scapular abduction, and abduction in the coronal plane. Maximal active internal rotation and external rotation were assessed separately. Surface electromyography (EMG) was performed to track activation of the latissimus dorsi (LD) and deltoid muscles during shoulder motion. EMG was scaled to its maximal isometric voluntary contraction recorded in specified strength tests.

RESULTS

In MAES, TH motion of the LDT shoulder was not significantly different from that of the ACS (F_1,12 = 1.174, P = .300) but the GH contribution was significantly lower in the LDT shoulder for all motions (F_1,12 = 11.230, P = .006). External rotation was significantly greater in the ACS (26° ± 10° in LDT shoulder vs. 42° ± 11° in ACS, P < .001). The LD percentage EMG maximum showed no significant difference between the LDT shoulder and ACS during MAES (F_1,11 = 0.005, P = .946). During maximal active external rotation of the shoulder, the LDT shoulder showed a higher percentage EMG maximum than the ACS (3.0% ± 2.9% for LDT shoulder vs. 1.2% ± 2.0% for ACS, P = .006).

CONCLUSIONS

TH motion improved after LDT in an MIRT with pseudoparalysis and was not different from the ACS except for external rotation. However, GH motion was significantly lower after LDT than in the ACS in active-elevation range of motion. The LD was active after LDT but not more than in the ACS except for active external rotation, which we did not consider relevant as the activity did not rise above 3% EMG maximum. The favorable clinical results of LDT do not seem to be related to a change in LD activation and might be explained by its effect in preventing proximal migration of the humeral head in active elevation.

Does application of abduction brace after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair improve blood flow around posterosuperior rotator cuff and repair site, affecting pain levels and clinical and structural outcomes? A pilot randomized controlled trial

Background

As per some cadaveric studies, blood flow in posterosuperior rotator cuff tendons improves in the abducted shoulder position compared with the neutral position. In a clinical post–rotator cuff repair scenario, the impact of abduction on altered blood flow in and around the posterosuperior rotator cuff tendons is unknown in terms of clinical outcomes and structural healing.

Materials and methods

This study included 42 eligible patients aged between 40 and 70 years with clinically diagnosed and radiologically confirmed rotator cuff tears undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Patients were randomly allocated to undergo application of either an abduction brace (group 1) or an arm pouch (group 2). On postoperative day 1, power Doppler scanning was performed on the index shoulder in adduction and 30° of abduction in each patient; the allocated treatment (abduction brace or arm pouch) was then applied. Power Doppler scanning was repeated at 6 weeks in the immobilization position assigned to the patient (abduction or adduction). The vascular flow in 6 regions was noted as per the criteria of Fealy et al. A visual analog scale score was assessed preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 56 weeks postoperatively. Clinical assessment was performed with the Constant-Murley score at 1 year, and structural healing of the cuff was assessed using ultrasonography at 3 and 12 months.

Result

On the first postoperative day, blood flow was significantly higher in all 6 areas of the shoulder in group 1 than in group 2. The mean total vascular score was significantly higher in group 1 than in group 2 on postoperative day 1 (P = .0001) and remained so at 6 weeks (P = .0001). However, significantly higher vascular flow was noted only in the peribursal region at 6 weeks in group 1 (P = .04). No significant difference in the visual analog scale score was noted between the 2 groups at any given point of follow-up. Furthermore, no clinical and structural healing differences were noted between the 2 groups at final follow-up.

Conclusion

Higher blood flow in and around the posterosuperior rotator cuff owing to an abducted shoulder position with an abduction brace in the first 6 weeks postoperatively fails to offer any advantage in terms of lower pain levels, better clinical scores, or superior cuff healing.

A retrospective cohort analysis of arthroscopic Bankart repair with or without remplissage in patients with off-track Hill-Sachs lesion evaluated for functional outcomes, recurrent instability, and range of motion

BACKGROUND

Lone Bankart repair is associated with high rates of recurrence, especially in off-track Hill-Sachs (HS) lesion. The objective of the study was to assess the impact of remplissage in off-track HS lesion influencing the rate of redislocation and range of motion (ROM) of the shoulder.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

We retrospectively reviewed 136 patients for arthroscopic Bankart repair without remplissage (group 1, n = 77) or with remplissage (group 2, n =59) for recurrent anterior dislocation of the shoulder with glenoid bone loss of <25%. Further subgroups of on- and off-track HS lesion were based on computed tomographic assessment. At a minimum follow-up of 2 years; patients were evaluated for functional scores (Rowe, Constant-Murley, Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index), redislocations, and ROM.

RESULTS

At a mean follow-up of 54 and 44 months in group 1 and 2, respectively, there was no difference in postoperative functional scores. There were significantly more dislocations in patients with Bankart repair with off-track lesion than in patients with Bankart repair with on-track lesion (P = .02). There were significantly fewer redislocations in patients with off-track lesion who underwent Bankart repair and remplissage than in those who did not undergo remplissage (P = .0007). Compared with group 1 patients, those in group 2 revealed a statistically significant loss of ROM.

CONCLUSIONS

Although a nonremplissaged off-track HS lesion remains an important risk factor for recurrent instability, remplissage also results in significant loss of shoulder ROM compared with those who do not undergo remplissage.

Dynamic contact area ratio in shoulder instability: an innovative diagnostic technique measuring interplay of bony lesions

PURPOSE

The hypothesis of this study is that Dynamic Contact Area Ratio of the humerus and glenoid, measured with CT scans, is significantly reduced in patients with anterior shoulder instability compared to the Dynamic Contact Area Ratio in a control group of people without shoulder instability.

METHODS

Preoperative CT scans of patients who underwent surgery for anterior shoulder instability were collected. Additionally, the radiologic database was searched for control subjects. Using a validated software tool (Articulis) the CT scans were converted into 3-dimensional models and the amount the joint contact surface during simulated motion was calculated.

RESULTS

CT scans of 18 patients and 21 controls were available. The mean Dynamic Contact Area Ratio of patients was 25.2 ± 6.7 compared to 30.1 ± 5.1 in healthy subjects (p = 0.014).

CONCLUSION

Dynamic Contact Area Ratio was significantly lower in patients with anterior shoulder instability compared to controls, confirming the hypothesis of the study. The findings of this study indicate that calculating the Dynamic Contact Area Ratio based on CT scan images may help surgeons in diagnosing anterior shoulder instability.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Ten percent re-dislocation rate 13 years after the arthroscopic Bankart procedure

PURPOSE

The aim of the present study was to determine the long-term outcome after the arthroscopic Bankart procedure, in terms of recurrent instability, shoulder function, glenohumeral arthropathy and patient satisfaction.

METHODS

Patients who underwent the arthroscopic Bankart procedure between January 1999 and the end of December 2005 were invited to complete a set of Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) and visit the hospital for clinical and radiological assessment. PROMs included the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI), the Oxford Shoulder Instability Score (OSIS) and additional questions on shoulder instability and patient satisfaction. Clinical assessment included the apprehension test and the Constant-Murley score. The Samilson-Prieto classification was used to assess arthropathy on standard radiographs. The primary outcome was a re-dislocation that needed reduction. Secondary outcomes in terms of recurrent instability included patient-reported subluxation and a positive apprehension test.

RESULTS

Of 104 consecutive patients, 71 patients with a mean follow-up of 13.1 years completed the PROMs, of which 53 patients (55 shoulders) were also available for clinical and radiological assessment. Re-dislocations had occurred in 7 shoulders (9.6%). Subluxations occurred in 23 patients (31.5%) and the apprehension test was positive in 30 (54.5%) of the 55 shoulders examined. Median functional outcomes were 236 for WOSI, 45 for OSIS, and 103 for the normalized Constant-Murley score. Of all 71 patients (73 shoulders), 29 (39.7%) reported being completely satisfied, 33 (45.2%) reported being mostly satisfied and 8 (11%) reported being somewhat satisfied. Glenohumeral arthropathy was observed in 33 (60%) of the shoulders.

CONCLUSION

Despite 10% re-dislocations and frequent other signs of recurrent instability, shoulder function and patient satisfaction at 13 years after arthroscopic Bankart repair were good.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

Long-term results of arthroscopic and mini-open repair of small- to medium-size full-thickness rotator cuff tears

BACKGROUND

This retrospective cohort study evaluated functional outcome and structural integrity after arthroscopic- or mini-open repair of small- to medium-size rotator cuff tears assessed at long-term follow-up.

METHODS

All patients operated between 2001 and 2004 were invited to participate. Functional outcome was measured by Constant-Murley Score, Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand and Oxford Shoulder Score. Quality of life was assessed with EuroQol Health 5 Dimension. Patient satisfaction was assessed in terms of pain and overall result. Structural integrity of the rotator cuff repair was determined using ultrasound.

RESULTS

Of the eligible 62 patients, 44 patients were available for follow-up. After a mean of 11.3 years, 76% of the patients had good to excellent functional outcome on the Constant-Murley Score (median 82, range 29-95). The majority of patients reported good results on both Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand and Oxford Shoulder Score (median Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand 5.0, range 1.0-54; median Oxford Shoulder Score 19, range 13-39). The quality of life was also good (mean EuroQol Health 5 Dimension utility score 0.88, standard deviation 0.12). Eighty per cent was satisfied with the overall result. Ultrasound examination revealed structural integrity in 76% of all cases.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that functional outcome is good and structural integrity is high for the majority of patients 11.3 years after repair of small- to medium-size rotator cuff lesions.

Clinical and Structural Outcomes after Arthroscopic Repair of Medium- to Massive-Sized Delaminated and Nondelaminated Rotator Cuff Tears

INTRODUCTION

Current evidence is controversial about the outcomes after the repair of the delaminated versus nondelaminated rotator cuff tears. The objective of this study was to evaluate the factors affecting delamination of the cuff and clinical and structural outcomes after en masse arthroscopic repair of delaminated versus nondelaminated cuff of varying sizes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 233 patients with full-thickness posterosuperior cuff tears were divided in two groups: Group 1: Delaminated tears (n = 131) and Group 2: Nondelaminated tears (n = 102) of medium, large, and massive sizes. Both groups were evaluated by clinical scores (Constant-Murley [CM], American shoulder and elbow score [ASES]) and ultrasonography (USG), at a minimum followup of 2 years.

RESULTS

The mean followup was 45.47 months. There was a weak but statistically significant linear correlation (P = 0.02) between the increasing size of tear and delamination, whereas increasing age and duration of symptoms did not correlate with increasing tendency of delamination. Final followup USG analysis revealed that there was no significant difference (P = 0.55) between healing rates of Group 1 and Group 2. Further taking various tear sizes into account, USG revealed no significant difference between the healing rates of two groups. The mean overall final postoperative CM and ASES scores of two groups did not show any significant difference (CM; P = 0.36, ASES; P = 0.4). However, the clinical outcome was significantly better in the completely healed group as compared to partially healed or retear group.

CONCLUSIONS

A weak linear correlation between delamination and increasing size of the tear was noted. Although overall structural and clinical outcome is no different between two groups, the clinical outcomes of completely healed tear are better than partially healed ones.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, Retrospective comparative.

Comparative study of total shoulder arthroplasty versus total shoulder surface replacement for glenohumeral osteoarthritis with minimum 2-year follow-up

BACKGROUND

Compared with total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA), total shoulder surface replacement (TSSR) may offer the advantage of preservation of bone stock and shorter surgical time, possibly at the expense of glenoid component positioning and increasing lateral glenohumeral offset. We hypothesized that in patients treated for osteoarthritis with a sufficient rotator cuff, TSA and TSSR patients have comparable functional outcome, glenoid component version, and lateral glenohumeral offset.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study with a minimum of 2 years of follow-up. Patients in the TSA and TSSR groups received a cemented, curved, keeled, all-poly glenoid component. A cemented anatomical humeral stem was used in TSA. TSSR involved a humeral surface replacement (all components from Tornier Inc., St Ismier, France). Patients were assessed for functional outcome. Radiographs were assessed for radiolucent lines. Glenoid component position and lateral glenohumeral offset were assessed using computed tomography images.

RESULTS

After 29 and 34 months of mean follow-up, respectively, TSA (n = 29) and TSSR (n = 20) groups showed similar median adjusted Constant Scores (84% vs. 88%), Oxford Shoulder Scores (44 vs. 44), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores (22 vs. 15), and Dutch Simple Shoulder Test scores (10 vs. 11). Glenoid components showed similar radiolucent line counts (median, 0 vs. 0), similar anteversion angles (mean, 0° vs. 2°), and similar preoperative to postoperative increases in lateral glenohumeral offset (mean, 4 vs. 5 mm). One intraoperative glenoid fracture occurred in the TSSR group.

CONCLUSION

Short-term functional and radiographic outcomes were comparable for TSA and TSSR.

Does application of moderately concentrated platelet-rich plasma improve clinical and structural outcome after arthroscopic repair of medium-sized to large rotator cuff tear? A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has the potential to improve tendon-bone healing. The evidence is still controversial as to whether PRP application after repair of medium-sized to large cuff tears leads to superior structural and clinical outcome, especially after single-row repair.

METHODS

In a randomized study, 102 patients (PRP group, 52 patients; control group, 50 patients) with medium-sized and large degenerative posterosuperior tears were included for arthroscopic repair with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. Patients were evaluated with clinical scores (visual analog scale score, Constant-Murley score, University of California-Los Angeles score, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score) and ultrasound to assess retear and vascularity pattern of the cuff.

RESULTS

Visual analog scale scores were significantly lower in the PRP group than in controls at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months but not later. Constant-Murley scores were significantly better in the PRP group compared with controls at 12 and 24 months, whereas University of California-Los Angeles scores were significantly higher in the PRP group at 6 and 12 months (P < .05). The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score in both groups was comparable at all the times. At 24 months, retear in the PRP group (n = 2; 3.8%) was significantly lower than in the control group (n = 10; 20%; P = .01). The retear difference was significant only for large tears (PRP:control group, 1:6; P = .03). Doppler ultrasound examination showed significant vascularity in the PRP group repair site at 3 months postoperatively (P < .05) and in peribursal tissue until 12 months.

CONCLUSION

Application of moderately concentrated PRP improves clinical and structural outcome in large cuff tears. PRP also enhances vascularity around the repair site in the early phase.

Does scapular morphology affect the integrity of the rotator cuff?

BACKGROUND

Current evidence suggests that distinct scapular morphologies may predispose patients to a rotator cuff tear. The objective of this longitudinal study was to evaluate the relationship between symptomatic degenerative cuff tears and different radiographic acromial characteristics, including acromion shape, indices (acromial index [AI], critical shoulder angle [CSA]), and acromial spur.

METHODS

We divided 166 patients into 3 groups matched for age and sex: group 1, degenerative full-thickness tear; group 2, partial thickness bursal tear; and group 3, normal cuff. Patients were evaluated with standard radiographs and ultrasonography.

RESULTS

The presence of an acromial spur was strongly associated with a full-thickness cuff tear (odds ratio, 3.5; P = .001). AI and CSA revealed a statistically significant difference between means of group 1 (P = .006) and group 3 (P < .001). There was no statistically significant difference in means of AI between groups 1 and 2 (P = .695) and between groups 2 and 3, with respect to AI (P = .071) and CSA (P = .125). Receiver operating characteristic curve revealed a higher area for CSA (0.70) than for AI (0.61). Stepwise logistic regression rejected AI as a cuff tear predictor but confirmed CSA and a spur to be stronger predictors of a full-thickness cuff tear. There was no association between the Bigliani acromial type and rotator cuff tear (P = .06).

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of an acromion spur is strongly associated with full-thickness cuff tear. Higher AI and CSA are associated with a full-thickness tear but not with partial tears. The type of acromion is not related to cuff tear.

Once an arthrodesis, always an arthrodesis?

BACKGROUND

An arthrodesis of the shoulder is historically a solution for severe shoulder joint problems, for which no prosthetic solution is deemed possible. With the introduction of the reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA), which is intrinsically stable at the glenohumeral joint, it seems logical to consider conversion of a painful arthrodesis into a RSA, provided that the deltoid was not destroyed during the arthrodesis.

METHODS

Four patients (2 men, 2 women; age 46-66 years) with a longstanding arthrodesis (5-11 years) visited our clinic with a painful shoulder (mainly around the scapula) with the request to provide more mobility. In all, the shoulder was fused in 60° to 80° of abduction, 20° to 40° of flexion, and 40° to 50° of internal rotation. All patients refused an osteotomy as treatment for the pain. A preoperative electromyelogram showed activity in at least the posterior or middle parts of the deltoid, or both. They were offered revision of arthrodesis to a reverse prosthesis. All complications, especially instability, were discussed. Surgery was performed through the previous deltopectoral scar. In 3 cases, the osteotomy was lateral to the original joint line, providing some lateralization.

RESULTS

Follow-up was 22 to 60 months. The Constant-Murley score improved from 15-21 to 30-60. No dislocations occurred. All patients were satisfied, especially with the increased, although not impressive, rotations. Pain did not disappear but decreased considerably, from visual analog scale 8-10 to 0-4.

CONCLUSION

Conversion into a RSA is a safe procedure in patients with a painful arthrodesis and grossly intact deltoid, providing better glenohumeral mobility (especially rotations), leading to improved patient satisfaction.

The Oxford Shoulder Instability Score; validation in Dutch and first-time assessment of its smallest detectable change

Background

The Oxford Shoulder Instability Score (OSIS) is a short, self-reported outcome measurement for patients with shoulder instability.

In this study, the OSIS was validated in Dutch by testing the internal consistency, reliability, measurement error, validity and the floor and ceiling effects, and its smallest detectable change (SDC) was calculated.

Methods

A total of 138 patients were included. Internal consistency was calculated with Cronbach’s α. Reliability (test-retest) was calculated with the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The measurement error was calculated (SEM), and the SDC was estimated in a subgroup of 99 patients that completed the re-test after a mean of 13 days (5–30 days). Construct validity was evaluated by comparing the OSIS with the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability index (WOSI), the Simple Shoulder Test (SST), the Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS), the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand assessment (DASH), and the Short Form-36 (SF-36).

Results

Internal consistency was good, with a Cronbach’s α of 0.88. The reliability was excellent, with an ICC of 0.87. The SEM was 3.3 and the SDC was 9 points (on a scale of 0–48). Regarding the construct validity, 80 % of the results were in accordance with the hypotheses, including a high correlation (0.82) with the WOSI. No floor or ceiling effects were found.

Conclusions

The Dutch version of the OSIS showed good reliability and validity in a cohort of patients with shoulder instability.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13018-015-0286-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Reliability, validity, and responsiveness of the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index for elderly patients with a femoral neck fracture

BACKGROUND

The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) has been extensively evaluated in groups of patients with osteoarthritis, yet not in patients with a femoral neck fracture. This study aimed to determine the reliability, construct validity, and responsiveness of the WOMAC compared with the Short Form-12 (SF-12) and the EuroQol 5D (EQ-5D) questionnaires for the assessment of elderly patients with a femoral neck fracture.

METHODS

Reliability was tested by assessing the Cronbach alpha. Construct validity was determined with the Pearson correlation coefficient. Change scores were calculated from ten weeks to twelve months of follow-up. Standardized response means and floor and ceiling effects were determined. Analyses were performed to compare the results for patients less than eighty years old with those for patients eighty years of age or older.

RESULTS

The mean WOMAC total score was 89 points before the fracture in the younger patients and increased from 70 points at ten weeks to 81 points at two years postoperatively. In the older age group, these scores were 86, 75, and 78 points. The mean WOMAC pain scores before the fracture and at ten weeks and two years postoperatively were 92, 76, and 87 points, respectively, in the younger age group and 92, 84, and 93 points in the older age group. Function scores were 89, 68, and 79 points for the younger age group and 84, 71, and 73 points for the older age group. The Cronbach alpha for pain, stiffness, function, and the total scale ranged from 0.83 to 0.98 for the younger age group and from 0.79 to 0.97 for the older age group. Construct validity was good, with 82% and 79% of predefined hypotheses confirmed in the younger and older age groups, respectively. Responsiveness was moderate. No floor effects were found. Moderate to large ceiling effects were found for pain and stiffness scales at ten weeks and twelve months in younger patients (18% to 36%) and in the older age group (38% to 53%).

CONCLUSIONS

The WOMAC showed good reliability, construct validity, and responsiveness in both age groups of elderly patients with a femoral neck fracture who had been physically and mentally fit before the fracture. The instrument is suitable for use in future clinical studies in these populations.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The results are based on two clinical trials. The questionnaires used concern pure, clinically relevant issues (ability to walk, climb stairs, etc.). Moreover, the results can be used for future research comparing clinical outcomes (or treatments) for populations with a femoral neck fracture.

[Scapula alata following a gunshot injury]

BACKGROUND

The clinical condition "winged scapula" (scapula alata) is frequently not recognized as such. The accompanying symptoms are often attributed to more frequently occurring shoulder disorders, which can lead to unnecessary surgical procedures.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 41-year-old man was shot during a robbery 3 years ago, resulting in a complete paraplegia from the fourth thoracic vertebra downwards. Within a year of the attack, during rehabilitation towards wheelchair use, he developed pain around his right shoulder. He also had diminished strength when extending his right arm and problems with trunk balance. These symptoms were long thought to be caused by shoulder overuse during wheelchair use, but turned out to be a consequence of injury to the long thoracic nerve.

CONCLUSION

Shoulder symptoms due to scapula alata can be caused be a penetrating wound leading to nerve injury. The treatment of patients with a scapula alata calls for a multidisciplinary approach.

Rotator cuff tear: A detailed update

Rotator cuff tear has been a known entity for orthopaedic surgeons for more than two hundred years. Although the exact pathogenesis is controversial, a combination of intrinsic factors proposed by Codman and extrinsic factors theorized by Neer is likely responsible for most rotator cuff tears. Magnetic resonance imaging remains the gold standard for the diagnosis of rotator cuff tears, but the emergence of ultrasound has revolutionized the diagnostic capability. Even though mini-open rotator cuff repair is still commonly performed, and results are comparable to arthroscopic repair, all-arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff tear is now fast becoming a standard care for rotator cuff repair. Appropriate knowledge of pathology and healing pattern of cuff, strong and biological repair techniques, better suture anchors, and gradual rehabilitation of postcuff repair have led to good to excellent outcome after repair. As the healing of degenerative cuff tear remains unpredictable, the role of biological agents such as platelet-rich plasma and stem cells for postcuff repair augmentation is still under evaluation. The role of scaffolds in massive cuff tear is also being probed.

Isokinetic strength differences between patients with primary reverse and total shoulder prostheses: muscle strength quantified with a dynamometer

BACKGROUND

Range of motion after total shoulder arthroplasty is better than after reverse shoulder arthroplasty, however with similar clinical outcome. It is unclear if this difference can only be found in the different range of motion or also in the force generating capacity.

QUESTIONS

(1) are isokinetically produced joint torques of reverse shoulder arthroplasty comparable to those of total shoulder arthroplasty? (2) Does this force-generating capacity correlate with functional outcome?

METHODS

Eighteen reverse shoulder arthroplasty patients (71years (SD 9years)) (21 shoulders, follow-up of 21months (SD 10months)) were recruited, 12 total shoulder arthroplasty patients (69years (SD 9years)) (14 shoulders, follow-up of 35months (SD 11months)). Pre- and post-operative Constant-Murley scores were obtained; two isokinetic protocols (ab-/adduction and ex-/internal rotations) at 60°/s were performed.

FINDINGS

Twelve of 18 reverse shoulder arthroplasty patients generated enough speed to perform the test (13 shoulders). Mean ab-/adduction torques are 16.3Nm (SD 5.6Nm) and 20.4Nm (SD 11.8Nm). All total shoulder arthroplasty patients generated enough speed (14 shoulders). Mean ab-/adduction torques are 32.1Nm (SD 13.3Nm) and 43.1Nm (SD 21.5Nm). Only 8 reverse shoulder arthroplasty patients (9 shoulders) could perform ex-/internal rotation tasks and all total shoulder arthroplasty patients. Mean ex-/internal rotation torques are 9.3Nm (SD 4.7Nm) and 9.2Nm (SD 2.1Nm) for reverse shoulder arthroplasty, and 17.9Nm (SD 7.7Nm) and 23.5Nm (SD 10.6Nm) for total shoulder arthroplasty. Significant correlations between sub-scores: activity, mobility and strength and external rotation torques for reverse shoulder arthroplasty. Moderate to strong correlation for sub-scores: strength in relation to abduction, adduction and internal rotation torques for total shoulder arthroplasty.

INTERPRETATION

Shoulders with a total shoulder arthroplasty are stronger. This can be explained by the absence of rotator cuff muscles and (probably) medialized center of rotation in reverse shoulder arthroplasty. The strong correlation between external rotation torques and post-operative Constant-Murley sub-scores demonstrates that external rotation is essential for good clinical functioning in reverse shoulder arthroplasty.

The diagnostic value of the combination of patient characteristics, history, and clinical shoulder tests for the diagnosis of rotator cuff tear

Background

It is unknown which combination of patient information and clinical tests might be optimal for the diagnosis of rotator cuff tears. This study aimed to determine the diagnostic value of nine individual clinical tests for evaluating rotator cuff tear and to develop a prediction model for diagnosing rotator cuff tear.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included 169 patients with shoulder complaints. Patients who reported a previous shoulder dislocation were excluded from the analysis (N = 69). One experienced clinician conducted 25 clinical tests of which 9 are specifically designed to diagnose rotator cuff pathology (empty can, Neer, Hawkins-Kenney, drop arm, lift-off test, painful arc, external rotation lag sign, drop sign, infraspinatus muscle strength test). The final diagnosis, based on magnetic resonance arthrography (MRA), was determined by consensus between the clinician and a radiologist, who were blinded to patient information. A prediction model was developed by logistic regression analysis.

Results and discussion

In this cohort, 38 patients were diagnosed with rotator cuff tears. The individual overall accuracy of the rotator cuff clinical tests was 61%–75%. After backward selection, the model determined that the most important predictors of rotator cuff tears were higher age and a positive Neer test. This internally validated prediction model had good discriminative ability (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) = 0.73).

Conclusion

Our results showed that individual clinical shoulder tests had moderate diagnostic value for diagnosing rotator cuff tear. Our prediction model showed improved diagnostic value. However, the prediction value is still relatively low, supporting a low threshold for additional diagnostic tests for the diagnosis of rotator cuff tears.

Level of evidence

Study of diagnostic test: level I.

Measurement properties of the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability index in Dutch patients with shoulder instability

Background

The Western Ontario Shoulder Instability index (WOSI) is a patient-reported outcome measure for patients with shoulder instability. The purpose of this study was to validate the WOSI in a Dutch population by evaluating its structural validity, internal consistency, measurement error, reliability, and construct validity. Floor and ceiling effects were also addressed.

Methods

Two cohorts were recruited, including a total of 138 patients with shoulder instability. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to assess the structural validity and Cronbach’s α to assess internal consistency. The measurement error was calculated as the smallest detectable change (SDC). Reliability (test–retest) was estimated in a subgroup of 99 patients who completed the re-test after a mean of 13 days (5–30 days). Reliability was calculated with the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Construct validity was evaluated by comparing the WOSI with the Oxford Shoulder Instability Score (OSIS), the Simple Shoulder Test, the Oxford Shoulder Score, the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand assessment (DASH), and the Short Form-36 Health Survey. Measurement properties were evaluated for both the total WOSI score and its four domains.

Results

Factor analysis did not confirm the validity of the four domains. Best results were found for a one-factor model. Internal consistency was good, with Cronbach’s α ranging from 0.93 to 0.96. Reliability was excellent (ICC 0.88–0.92 for all subscales). The measurement error (SDC) was 23.0% for the total WOSI and 23% to 28% for the subscales (on a scale of 0–100). Regarding the construct validity, 76% of the results were in accordance with the hypotheses, including a high correlation with the OSIS (0.82) and DASH (0.81) assessments. No floor or ceiling effects were found.

Conclusion

The Dutch version of WOSI showed good reliability and validity in a cohort of patients with shoulder instability, although the factor structure remains unclear.

The quantification of glenoid bone loss in anterior shoulder instability; MR-arthro compared to 3D-CT

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to investigate if magnetic resonance imaging with intra-articular contrast (MR-arthro) is as reliable as three-dimensionally reconstructed computed tomography imaging (3D-CT) in quantifying the glenoid bone loss in patients with anterior shoulder instability.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-five patients were included. Sagittal MR-arthro and 3D-CT images of the glenoid surface were obtained pre-operatively. Two observers measured these images twice with OsiriX software in a randomized and blinded way. The intraclass correlations (ICC) of the intra- and inter-observer reliability within one method and an additional Bland-Altman plot for calculating agreement between the two methods were obtained.

RESULTS

The joint estimates of the intra-observer reliability, taking into account the data from both observer A and B, for 3D-CT and MR-arthro were good to excellent. The intra-observer reliability was 0.938 (95% CI: 0.879, 0.968) for 3D-CT and 0.799 (95% CI: 0.639, 0.837) for MR-arthro. The inter-observer reliability between the two observers within one method (3D-CT or MR-arthro) was moderate to good. 3D-CT: 0.724 (95% CI: 0.236, 0.886) and MR-arthro: 0.534 (95% CI: 0.128, 0.762). Comparing both the 3D-CT and MR-arthro method, a Bland-Altman plot showed satisfying differences with the majority of outcomes (89%) within 1 SD.

CONCLUSIONS

Good to excellent intra- and moderate to good inter-observer correlations and a satisfying Bland-Altman plot when compared to 3D-CT show tendencies that MR-arthro is reliable and valid for measuring bony defects of the glenoid.

Evaluation of the use of the hook plate in Neer type 2 lateral clavicle fractures and Rockwood types 3-5 acromioclavicular joint dislocations

PURPOSE

For most types of acromioclavicular (AC) injuries, treatment is well established. For Neer type 2 lateral clavicle fractures and Rockwood types 3-5 AC dislocations, the ideal treatment is still a point of debate. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the functional and radiological outcome in patients treated for one of these two lesions in our hospital.

METHODS

Our study group consisted of 30 patients with a Neer type 2 lateral clavicle fracture (n = 19) or Rockwood types 3-5 AC dislocation (n = 11) treated with the clavicle hook plate. All implants were removed after healing. At a mean follow-up of 40 months (12-92), data were collected by the analysis of questionnaires (DASH, NSST, OSS, SF-36), clinical examination (Constant-Murley score), and radiological evaluation (Zanca view).

RESULTS

The mean Constant score was 88 [standard deviation (SD) 8] compared to 92 (SD 6) on the contralateral non-operated side. The questionnaires resulted in the following scores: median DASH: 4.5 (0-70); median NSST: 100 (8-100); mean OSS: 41 (SD 8); mean SF-36: 81 (SD 12). The mean coracoclavicular (CC) and AC distances were not significantly different.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that hook plate fixation is a reliable treatment for Neer type 2 lateral clavicle fractures and Rockwood types 3-5 AC injuries. It results in a good and comparable function of the shoulder when compared to the contralateral side, high union rate, good to excellent objective and subjective results, and allows early active motion with limited abduction. A disadvantage is the necessity to remove the plate.

Determination and comparison of the smallest detectable change (SDC) and the minimal important change (MIC) of four-shoulder patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs)

Background

There is a need for better interpretation of orthopedic treatment effects. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are already commonly used for patient evaluation. PROMs can be used to determine treatment effects in research as well as in clinical settings by calculating change scores, with pre- and post-treatment evaluation. The smallest detectable change (SDC) and minimal important change (MIC) are two important benchmarks for interpreting these change scores. The purpose was to determine the SDC and the MIC for four commonly used shoulder-related PROMs: Simple Shoulder Test (SST), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH and QuickDASH), and the Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS).

Methods

A cohort of 164 consecutive patients with shoulder problems visiting an orthopedic outpatient clinic completed the SST, DASH, and the OSS at their first visit and 6 months after operative or non-operative treatment. The SDC was calculated with a test re-test protocol (0–2 weeks). For the MIC, change scores (0–6 months of evaluation) were calculated in seven subgroups of patients, according to an additional self-administered ranking of change over time (anchor-based mean change technique). The MIC is defined as the average score of the ‘slightly improved’ group according to the anchor. The QuickDASH was computed from the DASH.

Results

The SDC of the SST was 2.8, DASH 16.3, QuickDASH 17.1, and OSS 6.0. The MIC change score for the SST was 2.2, DASH 12.4, QuickDASH 13.4, and OSS 6.0.

Conclusion

This study shows that on an individual patient-based level, when taking into account SDC and MIC, the change score should exceed 2.8 points for the SST, 16.3 points for the DASH, 17.1 points for the QuickDASH, and 6.0 points for the OSS to have a clinically relevant change on a PROM, which is not due to measurement error.

Diagnostic value of patient characteristics, history, and six clinical tests for traumatic anterior shoulder instability

BACKGROUND

It is unknown which combination of patient information and clinical tests might be optimal for the diagnosis of traumatic anterior shoulder instability. This study aimed to determine the diagnostic value of individual clinical tests and to develop a prediction model that combined patient characteristics, history, and clinical tests for diagnosis of traumatic anterior shoulder instability.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective cohort study included 169 consecutive patients with shoulder complaints who were examined at an orthopaedic outpatient clinic. One experienced clinician conducted 25 clinical tests; of these, 6 were considered to be specific for testing of traumatic anterior shoulder instability (apprehension, relocation, release, anterior drawer, load and shift, and hyperabduction tests). Magnetic resonance arthrography was used to determine the final diagnosis. A prediction model was developed by logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

In this cohort, 60 patients (36%) were diagnosed with anterior shoulder instability on the basis of magnetic resonance arthrography. The overall accuracy of individual clinical tests was 80.5% to 86.4%. Age, previous shoulder dislocation, sudden onset of complaints, and the release test were important predictors for the diagnosis of traumatic anterior shoulder instability. The prediction model demonstrated high discriminative ability (AUC 0.95).

CONCLUSION

Individual clinical shoulder tests provide good diagnostic accuracy. Young age, history of shoulder dislocation, sudden onset of complaints, and positive result of the release test were the most important predictors for traumatic anterior shoulder instability.

Long-term follow-up of Sprengel's deformity treated with the Woodward procedure

BACKGROUND

Sprengel's deformity is a congenital anomaly of the shoulder with superior displacement and rotation of the hypoplastic scapula. The functional impairment and misshapen appearance of the shoulder can be minimized with different surgical techniques. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term results after correction of Sprengel's deformity using the Woodward procedure.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, 8 shoulders were examined at 3 different periods in time. The average follow-up was 14.7 years (range, 8-26). Range of motion, Constant score, DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) score, and simple shoulder test (SST) were obtained to evaluate shoulder function. Scapula placement and degenerative disease were assessed by radiographic examination and the Rigault's classification. Cavendish grading was used to evaluate cosmetic appearance.

RESULTS

Mean age at the time of surgery had been 8 years and 9 months. Mean follow-up was 13.5 years. Abduction improved by 41° in the first year after surgery, with final improvement of 56° at long-term follow-up. At the latest follow-up evaluation, the mean Constant score was 85 points, the DASH score 14.59 points, and the SST 9.5 points. Radiographs showed superior displacement of the involved scapula in all cases, with no signs of degenerative disease of the shoulder. Cavendish grade improved from grade 3 preoperatively to grade 1 or 2 at the latest follow-up examination. No long-term complications had occurred.

CONCLUSION

The Woodward procedure shows to be an effective surgical procedure to improve shoulder function as well as cosmetic appearance in patients with Sprengel's deformity.

Costs and benefits of nitrogen for Europe and implications for mitigation

Cost-benefit analysis can be used to provide guidance for emerging policy priorities in reducing nitrogen (N) pollution. This paper provides a critical and comprehensive assessment of costs and benefits of the various flows of N on human health, ecosystems and climate stability in order to identify major options for mitigation. The social cost of impacts of N in the EU27 in 2008 was estimated between €75-485 billion per year. A cost share of around 60% is related to emissions to air. The share of total impacts on human health is about 45% and may reflect the higher willingness to pay for human health than for ecosystems or climate stability. Air pollution by nitrogen also generates social benefits for climate by present cooling effects of N containing aerosol and C-sequestration driven by N deposition, amounting to an estimated net benefit of about €5 billion/yr. The economic benefit of N in primary agricultural production ranges between €20-80 billion/yr and is lower than the annual cost of pollution by agricultural N which is in the range of €35-230 billion/yr. Internalizing these environmental costs would lower the optimum annual N-fertilization rate in Northwestern Europe by about 50 kg/ha. Acknowledging the large uncertainties and conceptual issues of our cost-benefit estimates, the results support the priority for further reduction of NH3 and NOx emissions from transport and agriculture beyond commitments recently agreed in revision of the Gothenburg Protocol.

Kinematic evaluation of patients with total and reverse shoulder arthroplasty during rehabilitation exercises with different loads

BACKGROUND

Following shoulder arthroplasty, any well-planned rehabilitation program should include muscle strengthening. However, it is not always clear how different external loads influence shoulder kinematics in patients with shoulder prostheses. The objective of this study was to describe shoulder kinematics and determine the contribution of the scapulothoracic joint to total shoulder motion of patients with total and reverse shoulder arthroplasties and of healthy individuals during rehabilitation exercises (anteflexion and elevation in the scapular plane) using different loading conditions (without external load, 1 kg and elastic resistance).

METHODS

Shoulder motions were measured using an electromagnetic tracking device. A force transducer was used to record force signals during loaded conditions using elastic resistance. Statistical comparisons were made using a three-way repeated-measures analysis of variance with a Bonferroni post hoc testing.

FINDINGS

The scapula contributed more to movement of the arm in subjects with prostheses compared to healthy subjects. The same applies for loaded conditions (1 kg and elastic resistance) relative to unloaded tasks. For scapular internal rotation, upward rotation and posterior tilt no significant differences among groups were found during both exercises. Glenohumeral elevation angles during anteflexion were significantly higher in the total shoulder arthroplasty group compared to the reverse shoulder arthroplasty group.

INTERPRETATION

Differences in contribution of the scapula to total shoulder motion between patients with different types of arthroplasties were not significant. However, compared to healthy subjects, they were. Furthermore, scapular kinematics of patients with shoulder arthroplasty was influenced by implementation of external loads, but not by the type of load.

Are shoulders with a reverse shoulder prosthesis strong enough? A pilot study

BACKGROUND

It has been suggested that limited active ROM of reverse shoulder prostheses relates to lack of strength. However, the postoperative strength has not been quantified.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

We therefore measured joint torques in patients with reverse shoulder prostheses and correlated torques with functional scores.

METHODS

We recruited 33 patients (age, 72 ± 8 years) with a reverse prosthesis (37 shoulders, 21 primary and 16 revisions). We obtained Constant-Murley, DASH, and Simple Shoulder Test ([D]SST) scores, and performed two isokinetic protocols (abduction/adduction and external/internal rotation) at 60° per second. Minimum followup was 4 months (average, 23 months; range, 4-63 months).

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients (24 shoulders; 13 primaries, 11 revisions) were able to perform at least one of the defined tasks. Mean abduction and adduction torques were 15 Nm ± 7 Nm and 16 Nm ± 10 Nm (19%-78% of normal shoulders). External and internal rotation tasks could be performed by only 13 patients (14 shoulders; nine primary, five revisions) generating 9 Nm ± 4 Nm and 8 Nm ± 3 Nm, respectively (13%-71% of normal shoulders). We found moderate correlations between Constant-Murley, DASH and (D)SST (D = Dutch translation) scores and abduction and external rotation.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with a reverse prosthesis had reduced strength when compared with normal values reported in the literature (only 65% of patients could perform the protocol). This effect was greatest for external rotation and might explain clinical outcomes with which a moderately strong relationship was observed. Our observations suggest limited strength is a major factor in reduced ROM.

Validation of the Dutch version of the Simple Shoulder Test

BACKGROUND

The Simple Shoulder Test (SST) is an internationally used patient-reported outcome for clinical practice and research purposes. It was developed for measuring functional limitations of the affected shoulder in patients with shoulder dysfunction and contains 12 questions (yes/no). The purpose of this study was to create a Dutch translation of the SST and to assess the reliability and validity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The SST was translated into Dutch using forward and backward translations. A consecutive cohort of patients with shoulder problems visiting an orthopedic clinic completed the Dutch version of the SST twice within 28 days. In addition, the Dutch validated versions of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand, Oxford Shoulder Score, and Constant-Murley shoulder assessment were completed for assessing construct validity.

RESULTS

One hundred ten patients with a mean age of 39 years (SD, 14 years), 72% male, completed the questionnaires. The internal consistency was high (Cronbach α, 0.78). The test-retest reliability was very good (intraclass correlation coefficient, 0.92) (n = 55). The measurement error expressed in the standard error of measurement was 1.18, and the smallest detectable change was 3.3 on a scale from 0 to 12. The construct validity was supported by expected high correlations between the Dutch version of the SST and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (r = -0.74) and between the SST and the Oxford Shoulder Score (r = -0.74) and an expected moderate correlation between the SST and the Constant-Murley shoulder assessment (r = 0.59).

CONCLUSION

The Dutch version of the SST seems to be a reliable and valid instrument for evaluating functional limitations in patients with shoulder complaints.

Arthroscopic surgery in athletes with osteochondritis dissecans of the elbow

PURPOSE

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the elbow is an avascular necrosis of the articular cartilage and underlying subchondral bone that occurs in the capitellum. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the results of arthroscopic surgery, including debridement, fragment fixation, micro-fracturing, and osteochondral autografting, in athletes with OCD of the elbow.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane library using the following main terms: osteochondritis dissecans, elbow, and surgical intervention. The 9 selected articles were criticized by use of a quality assessment tool derived from the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) Working Group.

RESULTS

The included studies had low methodologic quality and showed satisfactory results regarding pain, return to sports, and elbow function.

CONCLUSIONS

This review suggests that surgical treatment must be contemplated after a period of unsuccessful conservative therapy for athletes with OCD. Nevertheless, larger studies with enhanced methodologic quality and longer follow-up should be performed to support this conclusion.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, systematic review of Level IV studies.

Long-term results after arthroscopic shoulder stabilization using suture anchors: an 8- to 10-year follow-up

BACKGROUND

Arthroscopic stabilization using suture anchors is widely used to restore stability after anterior shoulder dislocations and is associated with low recurrence rates in short-term follow-up studies.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the long-term follow-up after arthroscopic stabilization for traumatic recurrent anterior instability using suture anchors with emphasis on both redislocations and subjective shoulder function.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

We included 67 consecutive patients with 70 affected shoulders. After 8 to 10 years, patients were asked to report the presence and course of their redislocations. Subjective shoulder function was addressed using the Oxford Instability Score (OIS), the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI), and the Simple Shoulder Test (SST). Patients rated their health status using the Short Form-36 (SF-36).

RESULTS

Sixty-five patients with 68 affected shoulders (97%) were evaluated for follow-up; 35% reported a redislocation. Median shoulder function scores were 16 of 12 to 60, 22 of 0 to 210, and 12 of 0 to 12 for the OIS, WOSI, and SST, respectively. There was a significant difference in subjective function between patients with and without recurrent instability, respectively, 16 versus 24 for the OIS (P = .004), and 16 versus 47 for the WOSI (P = .05). We found a trend for an inverse relationship between the number of suture anchors and recurrent instability, with 2 having a higher recurrence rate than 3 or more (P = .06). Another trend was found with the presence of a Hill-Sachs defect slightly increasing the risk of a redislocation (P = .07).

CONCLUSION

With a follow-up of 97%, about one third of the stabilized shoulders experienced at least one redislocation after 8 to 10 years. The presence of a Hill-Sachs defect and the use of less than 3 suture anchors might increase the chance of a redislocation. Patients without a redislocation have a significantly better shoulder function compared with patients with a redislocation.

Arthroscopic surgery in athletes with osteochondritis dissecans of the elbow

PURPOSE

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the elbow is an avascular necrosis of the articular cartilage and underlying subchondral bone that occurs in the capitellum. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the results of arthroscopic surgery, including debridement, fragment fixation, micro-fracturing, and osteochondral autografting, in athletes with OCD of the elbow.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane library using the following main terms: osteochondritis dissecans, elbow, and surgical intervention. The 9 selected articles were criticized by use of a quality assessment tool derived from the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) Working Group.

RESULTS

The included studies had low methodologic quality and showed satisfactory results regarding pain, return to sports, and elbow function.

CONCLUSIONS

This review suggests that surgical treatment must be contemplated after a period of unsuccessful conservative therapy for athletes with OCD. Nevertheless, larger studies with enhanced methodologic quality and longer follow-up should be performed to support this conclusion.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, systematic review of Level IV studies.

Kinematic and clinical evaluation of shoulder function after primary and revision reverse shoulder prostheses

HYPOTHESIS

Results of the reverse shoulder prosthesis on pain are generally satisfying; however, active range of motion (ROM) is often not optimal, especially after revision. A kinematic and clinical analysis of the reverse prosthesis was performed to provide more precise information on its glenohumeral motion pattern. We hypothesized that the difference in the primary and revision cases is due to differences in the motion in the glenohumeral joint.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The motion pattern of 31 patients with a reverse prosthesis (35 shoulders, 19 primary and 16 revisions) was measured during 3 active ROM tasks-forward flexion, abduction, and axial rotation. Average age was 71 ± 8 years (range, 58-85 years). Average follow-up was 23 ± 14 months (range, 4-63 months). Kinematic measurements were performed with a 3-dimensional electromagnetic tracking device. Clinical evaluation was performed by obtaining Constant score, Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score, and the Simple Shoulder Test (SST). Acromial-prosthetic distance was measured on anteroposterior radiographs.

RESULTS

Primary placed prostheses showed significantly better active glenohumeral motion than revisions for forward flexion (71° ± 18° vs 53° ± 26°, P < .05), abduction (64° ± 15° vs 46° ± 24°, P < .05), and active external rotation (31° ± 25° vs 13° ± 16°, P < .05). Constant score improved for the whole group from 24 (range, 5-47) to 50 (range, 8-87; P < .001), for the primary group from 28 (range, 13-47) to 60 (range, 8-87; P < .001) and for revisions from 20 (range, 5-47) to 38 (range, 11-73; P < .001). Acromial-prosthetic distance showed no significant correlation for active glenohumeral motion. Five shoulders with a deficient teres minor muscle showed no significant decrease of external rotation.

CONCLUSION

Active ROM is better in primary placed prosthesis, and this difference takes place mainly in the glenohumeral joint. In all our patients, Constant scores improved significantly postoperatively. However, we could not find any clinical correlating parameters to explain this difference.

Long-term activity restrictions after shoulder arthroplasty: an international survey of experienced shoulder surgeons

HYPOTHESIS

Shoulder arthroplasty is being performed with increasing frequency, and patients' athletic participation after shoulder arthroplasty is on the rise. However, little data exist regarding appropriate long-term activity restrictions. We hypothesize that European and North American surgeons both recommend increasing long-term activity restrictions, moving from hemiarthroplasty to total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) to reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA), and that both groups impose similar restrictions on their patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An online survey was sent to members of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) and the European Society for Surgery of the Shoulder and Elbow (SECEC). Participants received a list of 37 activities and classified their postoperative recommendations for each activity as allowed, allowed with experience, not allowed, or undecided.

RESULTS

The participation rate was 18%, including 47 North American surgeons and 52 European surgeons. All patients were allowed to participate in nonimpact activities, including jogging/running, walking, stationary bicycling, and ballroom dancing. Sports requiring light upper extremity involvement, including low-impact aerobics, golf, swimming, and table tennis, were allowed after hemiarthroplasty and TSA, and were allowed with experience after RTSA. Sports with fall potential, including downhill skiing, tennis, basketball, and soccer, were allowed with experience after hemiarthroplasty and TSA, and undecided or not allowed after RTSA. Higher-impact sports, such as weightlifting, waterskiing, and volleyball, were undecided after hemiarthroplasty and TSA and were not allowed after RTSA. European surgeons were more conservative than American surgeons in their recommendations after hemiarthroplasty and TSA, but good agreement between the 2 groups was noted regarding restrictions after RTSA.

CONCLUSION

Restrictions should be based on the type of arthroplasty performed and patients' preoperative experience.

Arthroscopic stabilization of posterior shoulder instability

Posterior shoulder instability is a rare and challenging condition with a complex patho-anatomy. The role of arthroscopic repair in the treatment remains poorly defined. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the result of arthroscopic stabilization procedures in patients with posterior shoulder instability. In this case series, we treated eighteen patients (19 shoulders) with posterior shoulder instability with either arthroscopic thermal capsular shrinkage (9 patients), capsulorrhaphy (3) or labral refixation (7). There were eight male and ten female patients with a mean age of 26 years. The study group included unidirectional (6 patients; PI), bi-directional (8; PII) and multidirectional posterior instability (5; MDI). The Rowe-score and DASH-score as well as subjective and objective evaluations of the patients function, range of motion, pain and instability were used as clinical outcome measurements. At a mean follow-up of 50 months, the Rowe-score improved significantly from 46 to 74 (P = 0.005). Four patients (21%) had recurrent instability after arthroscopic treatment (2 with generalized ligamentous laxity; 3 after thermal shrinkage). Analysis of postoperative DASH-scores showed a tendency toward inferior outcomes after thermal shrinkage and in patients with an a-traumatic origin of shoulder instability. We conclude that arthroscopic shoulder stabilization by either labral refixation or capsulorrhaphy is a safe and effective treatment for posterior shoulder instability. Thermal capsular shrinkage however showed poor results and should be abandoned for this indication.

Functional treatment versus plaster for simple elbow dislocations (FuncSiE): a randomized trial

BACKGROUND

Elbow dislocations can be classified as simple or complex. Simple dislocations are characterized by the absence of fractures, while complex dislocations are associated with fractures. After reduction of a simple dislocation, treatment options include immobilization in a static plaster for different periods of time or so-called functional treatment. Functional treatment is characterized by early active motion within the limits of pain with or without the use of a sling or hinged brace. Theoretically, functional treatment should prevent stiffness without introducing increased joint instability. The primary aim of this randomized controlled trial is to compare early functional treatment versus plaster immobilization following simple dislocations of the elbow.

METHODS/DESIGN

The design of the study will be a multicenter randomized controlled trial of 100 patients who have sustained a simple elbow dislocation. After reduction of the dislocation, patients are randomized between a pressure bandage for 5-7 days and early functional treatment or a plaster in 90 degrees flexion, neutral position for pro-supination for a period of three weeks. In the functional group, treatment is started with early active motion within the limits of pain. Function, pain, and radiographic recovery will be evaluated at regular intervals over the subsequent 12 months. The primary outcome measure is the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score. The secondary outcome measures are the Mayo Elbow Performance Index, Oxford elbow score, pain level at both sides, range of motion of the elbow joint at both sides, rate of secondary interventions and complication rates in both groups (secondary dislocation, instability, relaxation), health-related quality of life (Short-Form 36 and EuroQol-5D), radiographic appearance of the elbow joint (degenerative changes and heterotopic ossifications), costs, and cost-effectiveness.

DISCUSSION

The successful completion of this trial will provide evidence on the effectiveness of a functional treatment for the management of simple elbow dislocations.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The trial is registered at the Netherlands Trial Register (NTR2025).

Detection of partial-thickness supraspinatus tendon tears: is a single direct MR arthrography series in ABER position as accurate as conventional MR arthrography?

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to retrospectively evaluate sensitivity and specificity of a single magnetic resonance (MR) arthrography series in abduction external rotation (ABER) position compared with conventional MR arthrography for detection of supraspinatus tendon tears, with arthroscopy as gold standard, and to assess interobserver variability.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Institutional review board approval was obtained; informed consent was waived. MR arthrograms of 250 patients (170 men and 80 women; mean age, 36 years) were retrospectively and independently evaluated by three observers. Oblique coronal T1-weighted fat-suppressed images, proton density, and T2-weighted images and axial T1-weighted images and oblique sagittal T1-weighted fat-suppressed images were analyzed to detect supraspinatus tendon tears. Separately, a single T1-weighted fat-suppressed oblique axial series in ABER position was evaluated. Both protocols were scored randomly without knowledge of patients' clinical history and arthroscopy results. Tears were subclassified, based on articular surface integrity and extension (Lee classification). Interobserver agreement was assessed by kappa statistics for all patients. Ninety-two of 250 patients underwent arthroscopy; sensitivity and specificity of ABER and conventional MR arthrography were calculated and compared using paired McNemar test.

RESULTS

Weighted kappa values of ABER and conventional MR arthrography were 0.48-0.65 and 0.60-0.67, respectively. According to arthroscopy, 69 of 92 patients had an intact cuff, and 23 patients had a cuff tear (16 partial thickness and seven full thickness). There were no statistically significant differences between ABER and conventional MR arthrography regarding sensitivity (48-61% and 52-70%, respectively) and specificity (80-94% and 91-95%).

CONCLUSION

Sensitivity and specificity of a single T1-weighted series in ABER position and conventional MR arthrography are comparable for assessment of rotator cuff tears.

Lateral ankle reconstruction using a patellar tendon graft: a case report

A 64-year-old patient presented with a solitary osseous metastasis of the renal cell carcinoma. The localization of the metastasis in the distal fibula is rare. A distal fibulectomy was performed, and the lateral ankle ligaments were reconstructed using a patellar bone-tendon-bone allograft. Postoperatively the ankle was immobilized in plaster, followed by mobilization with an ankle brace. One year postoperatively the result was good. The ascribed method is a new and elegant way of reconstruction of the lateral ankle ligaments after distal fibulectomy. Lateral fibulectomy is rare, thus making the ascribed way of reconstruction rare. We think, however, for this specific indication this operation deserves a place among other lateral ankle reconstructions.

LEVEL OF CLINICAL EVIDENCE

4.

Autologous interleukin-1 receptor antagonist improves function and symptoms in osteoarthritis when compared to placebo in a prospective randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Incubation of blood with CrSO(4)-coated glass beads stimulates the synthesis of anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra), IL-4, IL-10, and IL-13. As IL-1beta is thought to play a key role in the development of osteoarthritis (OA), this product, also known as Orthokin, might be a viable treatment for symptomatic knee OA. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the efficacy of Orthokin for treatment of symptomatic knee OA in a randomized, multicentre, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

One hundred and sixty-seven patients received six intra-articular injections either with Orthokin or physiological saline. The primary efficacy objective consisted of 30% superiority on the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months post-treatment. Additionally, the patients completed the visual analogue scale for pain, the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and Knee Society Clinical Rating System.

RESULTS

Orthokin and placebo treatment resulted in similar improvements on the WOMAC (16.8% vs 16.5%, respectively; n.s.). Orthokin resulted in significantly more improvement for KOOS symptom (P = 0.002) and KOOS sport (P = 0.042) parameters as compared to placebo treatment. For most other outcome parameters, Orthokin-treated patients consistently showed higher improvement compared to placebo-treated patients, although none of these differences were statistically significant. Two serious adverse events were observed in the Orthokin group: one patient with repeated severe inflammatory reactions of the knee joint within hours after the injection and one patient with septic arthritis which was attributed to the injection procedure rather than the product.

CONCLUSION

The statistically significant improvement of KOOS symptom and sport parameters together with the consistently higher, though non-statistically significant, improvement of most other parameters demonstrates that Orthokin clearly induces a biological response different from placebo treatment and warrant future investigations into the possible chondroprotective effect of Orthokin. However, in the current study the primary efficacy objective was not met and, therefore, the use of Orthokin currently cannot yet be recommended for the treatment of OA.

Osteoarticular infections in HIV-infected patients: 23 cases among 1,515 HIV-infected patients

BACKGROUND

The reported incidence of osteoarticular infections in HIV-infected patients has varied in the literature. PATIENTS AND METHODS We determined the incidence and characteristics of osteoarticular infections reported in a database of 1,515 HIV-infected patients between 1983 and 2003.

RESULTS

23 HIV-infected patients were identified with an osteoarticular infection, 11 of whom had a spondylodiscitis. 16 were intravenous drug abusers; this was identified as a risk factor for developing an osteoarticular infection. The most common agent was Staphylococcus aureus. 6 patients required surgical intervention and in a worst-case scenario more than one-fifth had recurrence of their infection.

CONCLUSION

Development of an osteoarticular infection is a rare complication in this group of HIV-infected patients, but a remarkably high number of infections of the spine were seen.

Quantification of a glenoid defect with three-dimensional computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging: a cadaveric study

Bone loss of the glenoid is a common finding in anterior glenohumeral instability. Several methods to measure the size of a glenoid defect have been described but have not been validated. In this study, 14 cadaver glenoids with a randomly created anteroinferior glenoid defect were used for validation of the so-called circle method. Measurements were done by 2 researchers on digital photographs, 3-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance images (MRI). The correlation coefficient (r(2)) for comparing measurements from the digital photographs with the CT scans was 0.97 for researcher 1 and 0.90 for researcher 2. When they compared digital images with MRI, the r(2) was 0.93 for researcher 1 and 0.92 for researcher 2. No statistical differences were found between the 2 researchers. The circle method is a simple method for preoperative quantification of a glenoid defect. Measurements can be done with 3D CT scans as well as MRI.

Effect of transforming growth factor-beta and growth differentiation factor-5 on proliferation and matrix production by human bone marrow stromal cells cultured on braided poly lactic-co-glycolic acid scaffolds for ligament tissue engineering

Tissue engineering of ligaments based on biomechanically suitable biomaterials combined with autologous cells may provide a solution for the drawbacks associated with conventional graft material. The aim of the present study was to investigate the contribution of recombinant human transforming growth factor beta 1 (rhTGF-beta1) and growth differentiation factor (GDF)-5, known for their role in connective tissue regeneration, to proliferation and matrix production by human bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) cultured onto woven, bioabsorbable, 3-dimensional (3D) poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) scaffolds. Cells were cultured for 12 days in the presence or absence of these growth factors at different concentrations. Human BMSCs attached to the suture material, proliferated, and synthesized extracellular matrix rich in collagen type I and collagen III. No differentiation was demonstrated toward cartilage or bone tissue. The addition of rhTGF-beta1 (1-10 ng/mL) and GDF-5 (10-100 ng/mL) increased cell content (p < 0.05), but only TGF-beta1 also increased total collagen production (p < 0.05) and collagen production per cell, which is a parameter indicating differentiation. In conclusion, stimulation with rhTGF-beta1, and to a lesser extent with GDF-5, can modulate human BMSCs toward collagenous soft tissue when applied to a 3D hybrid construct. The use of growth factors could play an important role in the improvement of ligament tissue engineering.

[The relationship between surgical delay for a hip fracture and the complication risk]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the factors that contribute to surgical delay and whether this delay can be associated with post-operative complications.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHOD

Patients admitted with a hip fracture between 1 January 2001-31 December, 2003 to the Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis, Amsterdam, the Netherlands, were included. The delay before surgery was recorded in 446 patients who underwent surgical treatment for a hip fracture. As possible predictors of delay before surgery, the following factors were investigated: demographic and other patient information, pre-operative medication, co-morbidities, pre-operative acute co-morbidities, classification according to the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) and whether or not the patient had already had surgery to the same hip. To measure the effect of delay before surgery, we investigated post-operative complications like: delirium, decubitus ulcers, urinary tract infections, pulmonary infections, pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis, wound infection, failure ofosteosynthesis and in-hospital mortality.

RESULTS

In total, 446 patients, 98 male and 348 female, with a mean age of 82.2 years met the inclusion criteria. Distinct predictors of delay before surgery were: ASA-classification, pre-operative urinary tract infection, pre-operative chest infection, pre-operative delirium, pre-operative anaemia and re-operation. There was no significant association between delay of surgery and the occurrence of post-operative complications.

CONCLUSION

Presence of a pre-operative medical condition has an important effect on surgical delay for a hip fracture. The assumption of the Dutch Healthcare Inspectorate that delay of surgery for hip fracture causes more complications could not be confirmed.

Mid-term results of arthroscopic reconstruction in chronic posterior cruciate ligament instability

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical results of arthroscopic single bundle posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction in patients with chronic PCL instability not responding to conservative treatment. 18 patients were available for follow-up with an average elapsed time of 3 years between onset of injury and surgery and an average duration of 3.3 years between reconstruction and evaluation. The clinical results were investigated using the IKDC form, the Tegner rating system, a subjective evaluation, and the VAS for pain rating. The presence of femoral degenerative changes correlated strongly to the elapsed time between injury and operation (P<0.05). Before surgery all patients were graded D (severely abnormal) using the IKDC evaluation form. The final IKDC score at follow-up resulted in grade A (normal) in five patients (28%), grade B (nearly normal) in eight patients (44%), grade C (abnormal) in four patients (22%) and grade D (severely abnormal) in one patient (6%). The VAS score for pain rating revealed very few complaints of pain and it demonstrated a strong correlation between the subjective evaluation and the Tegner rating score (P<0.01). Evaluation of the Tegner score resulted in a significant improvement after surgery when compared to the situation prior to operation (P<0.01). Although there still is some controversy on the indication for treatment of PCL injury, we conclude on the basis of our findings that arthroscopic reconstruction of symptomatic chronic PCL instability, not responding to conservative therapy, can be greatly beneficial.

Factors influencing the surgical process during shoulder joint replacement: time-action analysis of five different prostheses and three different approaches

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the per-operative process of shoulderjoint replacement, time-action analysis can be used.

MATERIAL/METHODS

Forty procedures performed by 7 surgeons with different experience using 5 different prostheses and 3 different surgical approaches were analyzed.

RESULTS

The surgical procedures showed a large variation in, for example, duration, tasks of team members, and protocol used. The surgical procedure was influenced by several factors, such as the prosthesis used, the surgical approach, the patient's condition, and the experience of the surgeon. Exposure of the glenoid was difficult and several retractors were needed, which were held by an extra assistant or clamped to the table or the surgeon. Two main limitations were seen in all procedures: repeated actions and waiting. Also, five errors could be identified. None of the alignment instruments was completely reliable and they allowed the surgeon to make major errors.

CONCLUSIONS

Better alignment instruments, pre-operative planning techniques, and operation protocols are needed for shoulder prostheses. The training of resident surgeons should be focused on the exposure phase, the alignment of the humeral head, the exposure of the glenoid, and the alignment of the glenoid. Evaluating the surgical process using time-action analysis can be used to determine the limitations during surgical procedures. Furthermore, it shows the large variation in factors affecting surgical performance, indicating that a system approach is needed to improve surgical outcome.