Verification of the Usefulness of an Assessment and Risk Control Sheet that Promotes Management of Cancer Drug Therapy

Background: Proper management of adverse events is crucial for the safe and effective implementation of anticancer drug treatment. Showa University Hospital uses our interview sheet (assessment and risk control [ARC] sheet) for the accurate evaluation of adverse events. On the day of anticancer drug treatment, a nurse conducts a face-to-face interview. As a feature of the ARC sheet, by separately describing the symptoms the day before treatment and the day of treatment and sharing the information on the medical record, it is possible to clearly determine the status of adverse events. In this study, we hypothesized that the usefulness and points for improvement of the ARC sheet would be clarified by using and evaluating a patient questionnaire.

Methods: This study included 174 patients (144 at Showa University Hospital (Hatanodai Hospital) and 30 at Showa University Koto Toyosu Hospital (Toyosu Hospital) who underwent pre-examination interviews by nurses and received cancer chemotherapy at the outpatient center of Hatanodai and Toyosu Hospital. In the questionnaire survey, the ARC sheet’s content and quality, respondents’ satisfaction, structural strengths, and points for improvement were evaluated on a five-point scale.

Results: The patient questionnaire received responses from 160 participants, including the ARC sheet use group (132 people) and the non-use group (28 people). Unlike the ARC sheet non-use group, the ARC sheet use group recognized that the sheet was useful to understand the adverse events of aphthous ulcers (p = 0.017) and dysgeusia (p = 0.006). In the satisfaction survey questionnaire, there was a high sense of security in the pre-examination interviews by nurses using the ARC sheet.

Conclusions: The ARC sheet is considered an effective tool for comprehensively evaluating adverse events. Pre-examination interviews by nurses using ARC sheets accurately determined the adverse events experienced by patients with anxiety and tension due to confrontation with physicians.

Clinical and Microangiographic Studies on Rupture of the E.P.L. Tendon after Distal Radial Fractures

The authors have treated 14 cases of spontaneous rupture of extensor pollicis longus tendon after fractures of the distal end of the radius, most of which were undisplaced or only slightly displaced. A microvascular study on five cadavers revealed that this tendon is subject to mechanical bending and attrition, has no mesotenon and has a poorly vascularised portion about 5 mm in length, which may be a cause of spontaneous rupture of the tendon.

Renal osteodystrophy in early chronic renal failure

A bone histological investigation was performed in 20 mondialyzed patients with chronic renal failure and a glomerular filtration rate of 5.1--31.9 ml/min. Osteomalacia was the predominant pathological feature in 60% of the patients, mixed lesion of both osteomalacia and osteitis fibrosa in 30%, and osteitis fibrosa only was seen in 5% of the patients. Only 1 showed normal bone histology. Elevated plasma immunoreactive parathyroid hormone was found in only 1 patient out of 6. The beneficial effect of 1 alpha-hydroxycholecalciferol was recognized in 7 patients, but the drug induced relatively rapid growth of serum creatinine incidentally, when patients had more than 4 mg/dl of serum creatinine.

A computer support system for neurological anatomical diagnosis

OBJECTIVES

Accurate neurological diagnoses are often difficult to make due to the complexity of the neuroanatomy involved. This study was performed to evaluate the usefulness of a computer system with easily retrievable anatomical information as a support for arriving at more accurate anatomic diagnoses.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Anatomical information from an initial physical examination was programmed into a computer with stored neuroanatomical charts of the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nerves. The information generated a graphic display of possible lesions with suggestions for further examination. These suggestions were then followed and further data entered. This data entry generated a new graphic display with reduced lesion possibilities. Iterations were then followed to narrow the possibilities for diagnosis further, until a final anatomical diagnosis was reached. This method was applied to three hypothetical examples and a number of clinical cases. Here we report three clinical cases in which this method was particularly useful in making a diagnosis.

RESULTS

Using computer iterations, the system was able to pinpoint one or more presumptive causative lesions in the CNS or PNS based on known neuronal pathways or nuclei.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that suitably used, computer memory, by virtue of its large capacity, accuracy and fast recall, can supplement human memory in reaching accurate anatomical diagnoses of neurological lesions.

Dissemination of metals from a failed patellar component made of titanium-base alloy

Complications related to the patella are the most common problems in total knee arthroplasty and major reasons for revision surgery. Among patellofemoral problems, metal-to-metal contact between patellar and femoral components is the worst. We measured levels of titanium, aluminum, and vanadium in serum and urine samples and compared these measures from cases in which metal-to-metal contact of the patellar component occurred with those in cases in which only polyethylene wear occurred. Serum levels of the metals in cases with metal-to-metal contact were over 10 times higher than those in cases without metal-to-metal contact. This suggests that different ranges of serum metal ion levels could eventually be correlated with a variety of mechanisms of patellar failure. Therefore, cases with metal-to-metal contact should be distinguished from cases without metal-to-metal contact. These should not be considered as a single group in patellar component failure.

Correction of tibial deformity in adults

This report from five hospitals in Japan describes the results of correcting adult tibial deformities using external fixation. There were 49 patients with 59 lower limb deformities, with trauma being the most common cause of the deformity. Varus angulation was the most common deformity, and the most common magnitude was 11 degrees -30 degrees. Twenty-two patients had a leg-length discrepancy. The aim of the correction was to normalize both the mechanical axis and the inclination of the knee and ankle joints. In 63% of the patients corrections were performed gradually during bone lengthening or acutely after bone lengthening. Altogether, 71% of the patients were completely corrected, and no leg-length discrepancies remained after correction in 47%. Complications were encountered in 22 patients, about half of which were pin tract infections, 28% refractures, and the remainder delayed consolidation or fixator failure. There were no neurological or circulatory complications. The average fixation duration was 9 months. The average hospital charges were 3,740,000 yen in bilateral correction patients and 1,940,000 yen in unilateral correction patients. External fixation can correct not only the mechanical axis and joint inclination but also leg-length discrepancy simultaneously.

Kneeling view: a new roentgenographic technique to assess rotational deformity and alignment of the distal femur

Computed tomography (CT) has been used to assess the rotational alignment of the distal femur. The purpose of this study was to establish a simple radiographic technique to evaluate the posterior femoral condyles. For this study, 39 osteoarthritic knees and 19 normal knees were examined. The condylar twist angle and posterior condylar angle were measured using a new roentgenographic technique ("the kneeling view") and CT images. The kneeling view is a posteroanterior projection parallel to the articular surface with 80 degrees knee flexion. In this view, the transepicondylar axis and posterior condylar line can be seen. We noted statistically significant correlation between the angles on the kneeling view and those on CT images. Therefore, the kneeling view can be used as a substitute for CT in the measurement of rotational alignment of the distal femur.

Tissue-engineered repair of osteochondral defects: effects of the age of donor cells and host tissue

Transplantation of a tissue-engineered construct containing cells of a chondrocytic phenotype into an osteochondral defect provides a biological solution to this type of injury. Among the factors that affect cell proliferation and phenotypic expression, age is one that has not been well characterized. In this study adult and aged male donor cells, derived from perichondrium, were cultured and adsorbed into a polylactic acid (PLA) scaffold and transplanted into osteochondral defects created in adult (8- to 10-month-old) and aged (4- to 5-year-old) female rabbits. Three groups were investigated: (1) adult cells transplanted into aged defects, (2) aged cells transplanted into aged defects, and (3) aged cells transplanted into adult defects. In vitro characterization of adult and aged cells and in vivo assessment of osteochondral repair tissue at 12 weeks posttransplantation were carried out. The in vitro studies demonstrated that the proliferation rate of aged cells was less than that of mature cells during the earliest stage of culture. Also, the chondrocytic phenotype was reduced in aged cells compared with mature cells. The in vivo results showed that donor (SRY-positive) cell survival differed among the three groups: survival of adult cells into aged defect > survival of aged cells into aged defect > survival of aged cells into adult defect. The biological acceptability of the repair, defined as smooth firm cartilaginous tissue filling the defect, was < 25% of the operated specimens in each of the three groups. This repair tissue contained only 20-25% of the amounts of type II collagen and glycosaminoglycans found in normal articular cartilage. These data suggest that the outcome of tissue-engineered repair of osteochondral defects is affected by both the age of donor cells and the age of the host.

In situ strain and stress of nerve conduction blocking in the brachial plexus

The objective of the present study was to determine the in situ strain and stress of nerve conduction blocking in the brachial plexus. The measurement of the in situ tension stress inducing functional failure of the brachial plexus consisted of two steps. Step I (in vivo): The brachial plexus of the rabbit was stretched laterally until electrophysiological conduction blocking occurred. The distance between two dye marks placed on the lower trunk was simultaneously recorded using a video dimensional analyzer system. Step II (in vitro): The lower trunk that was removed was loaded again, and the nerve tension was recorded. The load at complete conduction blocking was determined by a load-elongation curve. The results showed that when the in situ nerve strain reached 8.1 +/- 0.5%, the compound muscle action potential was not evoked. The in situ load and stress were 2.5 +/- 0.4 N and 0.89 +/- 0.14 MPa, respectively, at complete conduction blocking. These findings should be helpful in understanding the mechanism of brachial plexus traction injury.

Biomechanical monitoring of healing bone based on acoustic emission technology

Acoustic emission testing is a well-established method for assessment of the mechanical integrity of general construction projects. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the usefulness of acoustic emission technology in monitoring the yield strength of healing callus during external fixation. Thirty-five patients with 39 long bones treated with external fixation were evaluated for fracture healing by monitoring load for the initiation of acoustic emission signal (yield strength) under axial loading. The major criteria for functional bone union based on acoustic emission testing were (1) no acoustic emission signal on full weightbearing, and (2) a higher estimated strength than body weight. The yield strength monitored by acoustic emission testing increased with the time of healing. The external fixator could be removed safely and successfully in 97% of the patients. Thus, the acoustic emission method has good potential as a reliable method for monitoring the mechanical status of healing bone.

Histological and electrophysiological analysis of the peripheral nerve allografts using an immunosuppressive agent

In peripheral nerve allografts, use of an immunosuppressive agent is one of the ways of reducing nerve rejection. FK506 is a newly discovered substance, extracted from Streptomyces tsukubaensis, and has strong immunosuppressive effects. In the present study, immunosuppressive effects of FK 506 were examined using allografts of rat sciatic nerves. Good nerve regeneration was demonstrated through 12 weeks in this model. The immunosuppressed group gained weight over the course of the experiment. Another study was performed to observe the histological changes caused by ceasing the administration of FK506. Administration of FK506 was terminated 12 weeks after grafting. At 8 weeks after cessation, cellular infiltration and large unmyelinated axons were observed in the extended subperineurial space of grafts. At 12 weeks, histological characteristics of rejection were not observed. In the electrophysiological study, the temporal dispersions were recorded at 4 and 8 weeks. However, the normal electrophysiological waves were recorded at 12 weeks after cessation. It was concluded that FK506 is effective for preventing rejection of nerve allografts without any serious side effects on rats, and findings of total rejection of grafts were not recognized after ceasing the administration of FK 506. In peripheral nerve allografts, short-term administration of an immunosuppressive agent is sufficient to lead to good nerve regeneration.

Second-generation intramedullary supracondylar nail for distal femoral fractures

The objective of this study was to review the use of intramedullary supracondylar (IMSC) nails for distal femoral fractures. We reviewed 24 fractures treated with second-generation IMSC nails. The fractures consisted of 18 type A1, one type A2, two type C1, one type C2, and two type C3 fractures. The relationships between clinical results and fracture type, approaches, and patient age were retrospectively reviewed. All fractures healed clinically and radiographically. Twenty-one patients maintained gait performance equivalent to that before injury. Average operating time was 108 min +/- 43 min. ROM in the knee of all patients was -5 degrees +/- 6 degrees in extension and 102 degrees +/- 38 degrees in flexion. Extension lag was influenced by surgical approach. The final knee arc was inversely correlated to patient age (R: 0.49, P<0.05). There were three varus/valgus deformities, two cases with loosening, and two with breakage of the distal locking screws, but no failure of the nail itself. Second-generation IMSC nailing for distal femur fractures was satisfactory in patients younger than 60 years of age.

Acridine orange excited by low-dose radiation has a strong cytocidal effect on mouse osteosarcoma

The study was conducted to clarify the cytocidal effect of combination therapy consisting of administration of acridine orange (AO), which is a photosensitizer, and radiation therapy using in vitro and in vivo mouse osteosarcoma models. The results revealed that AO combined with low-dose X-ray irradiation of about 1-5 Gy had a strong cytocidal effect on the cultured mouse osteosarcoma cells regardless of their chemosensitivity, and that this combination therapy inhibited growth of the in vivo mouse osteosarcoma by induction of tumor necrosis. This effect was inhibited by L-histidine, but not by mannitol. These findings suggested that AO might be excited by X-rays and kill osteosarcoma cells through the release of singlet oxygen, which is toxic to living cells. This mechanism is similar to that of photodynamic therapy with AO.

Newly devised anterior portal technique for arthroscopic bankart repair using suture anchors

Many techniques and instrument systems have been developed for performing arthroscopic Bankart repair using a suture anchor. The suture anchor procedure relies on a secure knot, which does not become entangled in the anterior portal. A newly devised anterior portal technique can solve this problem. We have used this technique for arthroscopic Bankart repair using suture anchor. This technique may be useful for any type of suture materials such as SLAP lesion.

Development of the acetabulum and the acetabular labrum in the normal child: analysis with radial-sequence magnetic resonance imaging

The degree of acetabular and labral coverage was clarified in children at different positions using radial-sequence magnetic resonance imaging. Scans were performed on 40 hips in 20 normal children (group A, 6-8 years old; group B, 9-11 years old; group C, 12-13 years old) and on 19 hips of 10 healthy adults as controls. The degrees of coverage of the femoral head by acetabulum, acetabular labrum, and both were measured at seven positions at every 15 degrees from anterosuperior 45 degrees via midsuperior to posterosuperior 45 degrees. Coverage of the femoral head by the acetabulum in young children was less than in adults at all positions, but the total coverage including the labrum was greater than in adults. Development of the acetabulum and the acetabular labrum showed differences by position.

NOR-1: a nitric oxide releasing agent for calibrating low levels of nitric oxide by the chemiluminescence method

Nitric oxide (NO) is formed in small amounts in vivo and is rapidly oxidized by interacting with oxygen, making measurement of its level difficult. The chemiluminescence assay is the most widely used method for detecting NO and is extremely sensitive to very small amounts of NO. However, it is difficult to prepare small amounts of NO to be used as a standard for NO analysis. NOR-1, a derivative of NOR-3, is a newly discovered NO donor with rapid NO-releasing activity. We assessed the dynamics of NO release and decomposition using NOR-1. Our results demonstrate that NOR-1 is stable in dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) and is able to dilute at lower concentration (to picomolar levels) by DMSO without decomposition. NOR-1 released persistently 1.4 more excess of NO with 15 min of incubation. There was a linear relationship between the concentration of NOR-1 and that of NO released from NOR-1 (r=0.997) These findings suggest that NOR-1 is a useful reagent for the calibration of lower NO detection.

Migration of the lag screw within the femoral head: a comparison of the intramedullary hip screw and the Gamma Asia-Pacific nail

OBJECTIVES

To study the functional difference in the performances of sliding femoral head screws by comparing the displacement of the screw in relation to the femoral head in hips treated with the Gamma Asia-Pacific nail (GN) and hips treated with the intramedullary hip screw (IMHS).

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review of prospectively collected data.

METHODS

Displacement of the femoral head screw in relation to the femoral head was measured in fifty-six elderly patients with intertrochanteric fractures who were treated with an IMHS or GN. Displacement of the femoral head screw was determined by comparing screw position in the immediate postoperative radiograph with a film taken 3 months after surgery.

RESULTS

In the GN group, significant displacement of the screw was observed with 3.8 +/- 3.8 percent translation in the horizontal axis (P < 0.005) and 4.3 +/- 5.1 percent displacement in the vertical axis (P < 0.05) in comparison with the diameter of the femoral head. In comparison, displacement of the femoral head screw was not observed with the IMHS (P = 0.48 for horizontal, P = 0.18 for vertical). Total displacement of the femoral head screw in relation to the femoral head in the GN was twice that observed in the IMHS (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that the displacement of the femoral head screw of the IMHS was less than the lag screw of the GN. However, it is still unknown whether this smaller displacement of the IMHS is clinically significant for reducing the rate of screw cut-out after surgery.

Minimum ten-year follow-up clinical and radiographic results of Mark I and Mark II Lord type femoral component in total hip arthroplasty

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic results in 103 hips in 88 patients who had cementless primary Lord type femoral component (stem), with a mean follow-up of 11.8 years (range, 10 to 16 years). The original diagnoses were: osteoarthritis in 77 hips, rheumatoid arthritis in 15, and osteonecrosis of the femoral head in 11. Clinical results were assessed using the Harris hip score. Biological fixation, stem full-fit ratio in the intramedullary canal, and bone remodeling were evaluated by X-ray findings. The average clinical hip scores were: 47.1 points preoperatively, 81.7 points at 1 year, 86.6 points at 5 years, 79.0 points at 10 years, and 76.8 points at 15 years. By setting the endpoint at the time when loosening was radiologically confirmed, the 10-year survivorship of the femoral component was 96.9%, and the 16-year survivorship was 95.9%. The full-fit ratio between the bone implant interface just after surgery showed a significant relationship to stability of the femoral component. The decrease in the hip score at 10 years was caused by aseptic loosening of the acetabular threaded cup. However, the femoral component was stable for more than 10 years after the operation. In conclusion, long-term acceptable durability can be expected with the Lord type femoral component.

Cementless Lord total hip arthroplasty: cup loosening common after minimum 10-year follow-up of 103 hips

We evaluated the clinical and radiographic results of 103 (88 patients) cementless Lord total hip arthroplasty after a mean follow-up period of 12.5 (10-16) years. 77 hips had arthrosis, 15 rheumatoid arthritis and 11 osteonecrosis. The preoperative mean Harris Hip Score improved from 47 (19-66) to 87 (62-99) at 5 years, but declined to 77 (56-97) at the final examination. The survivorship of the cup, using radiographically confirmed aseptic loosening as the end point, was 63% at 10 years and 45% at 15 years and the survivorship of the stem was 97% at 10 years and 96% at 15 years. The low figures of the cup may be due to insufficient contact between the smooth-surfaced threads of the cup and the acetabular bone. Thinner polyethylene, insufficient initial bone coverage, and larger femoral head diameter were significantly related to the occurrence of loosening. We can not recommend this smooth-surfaced threaded cup because of its high failure.

Initial experience with off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting

Off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB) is clearly preferable for patients with extracardiac complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the initial outcome of OPCAB, and its validity for patients with extracardiac complications. One hundred and fifty-seven consecutive coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) patients were divided into two groups: 30 OPCAB patients and 127 on-pump CABG patients. The early outcomes of the two groups were compared. Preoperatively, OPCAB patients had more extracardiac risk factors than on-pump CABG patients. There were no differences in age or cardiac function between the groups, but the off-pump group had a higher incidence of previous surgery, cerebrovascular disease, and renal failure. There were no differences in graft patency, stroke, or mortality between the two groups, even though the OPCAB patients had more risk factors than the on-pump patients. Our initial experience with OPCAB showed that it is acceptable for high-risk patients in view of the serious nature of their extracardiac condition.

Eleven cases of intraosseous lipoma of the calcaneus

Intraosseous lipomas are rare benign primary bone tumors, with an incidence of one per thousand bone tumors. We studied eleven cases of intraosseous lipoma of the calcaneus. All the patients received radiographic examinations and MRI with T1-and T2-weighted images with Gd-DTPA enhancement. Seven patients received tumor curettage. Plain radiographs demonstrated that all of the lesions showed clear osteolysis surrounded by a sclerotic margin in the central body of the calcaneus. MRI revealed that all the lesions had demarcated homogenous high signal intensity lesions on both T1- and T2-weighted images, which strongly suggested adipose tissue. In 5 cases, the center of the lesion showed low signal intensity lesions on T1-weighted images, suggesting the existence of central necrosis or cyst formation. After excising the tumors of 7 patients, there was no local tumor recurrence. Surgical intervention was considered unnecessary in all cases after the diagnosis of an intraosseous lipoma was determined by MRI.

Arthroscopic reduction and fixation of avulsion fracture of the tibial attachment of the anterior cruciate ligament

In treating avulsion fracture of the tibial attachment of the anterior cruciate ligament, surgical reduction and fixation of fractured bone is necessary for patients who have a wide displacement of bone fragment (i.e., types III and IV in the Meyers classification). Our arthroscopic technique allows the creation of bone tunnels on the medial and lateral sides of the bone fragment from the medial side of the tibial tubercle without using special equipment. At surgery, fixation wire is prepared into a loop, pulled into the joint space, and the loop is opened within the joint. This makes intra-articular manipulation easy, and the bone can be reduced more accurately. This arthroscopic technique decreases surgical invasion of the joint, allows good postoperative range of motion without problems, and is useful in preventing extension limitation due to dislocation of the anterior portion of the fragment.

DNA cytofluorometric analysis of chondrocytes in human articular cartilages under normal aging or arthritic conditions

OBJECTIVE

Since most chondrocytes in articular cartilage are in the resting phase (G0) of the cell cycle, it has been difficult to investigate their cell kinetics using 3H-thymidine autoradiography, or immunohistochemistry. In the present study, DNA cytofluorometry, which is useful to analyse the cell kinetics even for such inactive cell populations as in the G0 phase, was applied to human chondrocytes of the articular cartilages under normal aging and pathologic conditions such as osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and aseptic necrosis (AN).

DESIGN

The human articular cartilages for the study were obtained from autopsy and surgical materials. Fifty joints were used for the study of aging, 54 for the study of OA, 20 for studying RA, and 10 for AN study. The isolated chondrocytes were quickly prepared from fresh articular cartilages, using a combination method of enzymatic digestion with papain and collagenase, followed by mechanical cell separation by churning and homogenization.

RESULTS

The DNA histograms obtained by cytofluorometry with propidium-iodide staining showed that most chondrocytes had diploid DNA content (2c) in all cartilages studied, suggesting that they were in the G0 phase. However, there were a few chondrocytes having tetraploid DNA content (4c) in the normally aged articular cartilages, and there were some cells having DNA content between 2c and 4c in the diseased cartilages. The former cells were considered to be G0-phase cells of the 4c chondrocytes, while the latter cells were considered to be in the DNA synthetic (S) phase or G2-phase of the 2c chondrocytes. The frequency of 4c chondrocytes in aged cartilage was significantly increased, compared to that in the young cartilage. In contrast to the normal cartilage, the frequency of S- and G2-phase cells, which was expressed as the S- G2 index, in diseased cartilages (OA, RA and AN) was significantly high (P< 0.0001). In OA cartilage, the S-G2 index was much higher in the severe or moderate stage than in the mild stage, suggesting that the chondrocytes in clusters may actively proliferate.

CONCLUSION

These results showed that in normal articular cartilages most chondrocytes are in the G0 phase, while some became 4c polyploid cells, and that these G0-phase chondrocytes had a potential to proliferate under diseased conditions.

Localization of imidazolone in the peritoneum of capd patients: a factor for a loss of ultrafiltration

The presence of dicarbonyl compounds, potent precursors of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), has been recognized in unused peritoneal dialysis (PD) fluids. Accumulation of AGEs has been implicated in the alteration of peritoneal membrane properties during continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) therapy. To determine whether imidazolone, an AGE specifically derived from 3-deoxyglucosone (3-DG), contributes to a decrease in ultrafiltration (UF) capacity of the peritoneal membrane in CAPD patients, we immunohistochemically evaluated the localization of imidazolone in peritoneal tissues from CAPD patients. Mesothelial thickening in the peritoneum was found in six of seven CAPD patients. Imidazolone distinctly accumulated in peritoneal tissues of CAPD patients, whereas it was hardly detected in those of patients with nonrenal disease. CAPD patients with a low UF capacity showed more extensive peritoneal deposition of imidazolone and more pronounced mesothelial thickening than those with a normal UF capacity. A CAPD patient with sclerosing peritonitis showed the most abundant localization of imidazolone among all CAPD patients. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry showed that unused PD fluids contained high 3-DG concentrations (mean, 34.6 +/- 14.1 [SD] microgram/mL). In conclusion, the accumulation of imidazolone was noted in peritoneal tissues of CAPD patients, which preceded a decrease in UF capacity. Imidazolone modification may alter the quality of peritoneal membranes, presumably leading to a loss of UF and finally the development of sclerosing peritonitis.

Time-sequential changes in biomechanical and morphological properties of articular cartilage in cryopreserved osteochondral allografting

This study examined time-sequential changes in the biomechanical and morphological properties of articular cartilage that had received cryopreserved osteochondral allografting. Osteochondral blocks obtained from the femurs of 18 rabbits were cryopreserved with dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), using a two-step freezing method, and allografted to the femurs of another 18 rabbits. Specimens for biomechanical and morphological examinations were prepared at the second, fourth, and twelfth weeks after allografting (n = 18). In 12 allografted rabbits, biomechanical features were examined with an indentation test apparatus, and histological changes were studied with a light microscope (second week, n = 4; fourth week, n = 4; twelfth week, n = 4). In the other 6 allografted rabbits, cartilage surfaces were studied with a scanning electron microscope (second week, n = 2; fourth week, n = 2; twelfth week, n = 2). For controls, fresh, DMSO-treated, or DMSO-treated + cryopreserved specimens were examined biomechanically and morphologically. In the time-sequential examination of biomechanical features, both the parameter for elasticity (i.e., ratio of instant elastic strain to maximum strain) and the parameter for viscosity (i.e., average retardation time) significantly changed. Light microscopy showed chronological decreases in safranin-O staining intensity in the matrix, and progression of degeneration. On scanning electron microscopy, disruption of the cartilage surface was also recognized. Therefore, changes in biomechanical properties due to cryopreservation could cause irreversible changes in the cartilage in cryopreserved osteochondral allografting.

Fibrin monomer could be a useful predictor of pulmonary embolism after total hip arthroplasty: preliminary report

We examined 17 total hip arthroplasty patients in order to develop a method for the predictive diagnosis of pulmonary embolism (PE) after joint arthroplasty. Scintigraphy revealed the presence of PE in 4 patients. Prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), antithrombin III (ATIII), and thrombin-AT III complex (TAT) did not show significant differences between patients with and without PE. D-dimer 7 days after surgery showed significant differences between patients with and without PE. Fibrin monomer (FM) increased sharply after surgery, and it was significantly different between the patients with and without PE immediately after surgery and 2 days after surgery. Our findings suggest the importance of FM in the predictive diagnosis of pulmonary embolism after total hip arthroplasty, and 40 microg/ml or higher levels with our measurement method could represent a high-risk condition.

Symptomatic spur formation of bilateral proximal tibiofibular joints

Excessive, repetitive mechanical stress of the proximal tibiofibular articulation during sports activity can lead to degenerative changes and a syndesmotic joint.

Initial changes of non-traumatic osteonecrosis of femoral head in fat suppression images: bone marrow edema was not found before the appearance of band patterns

The present study examined initial changes in non-traumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONF) on T1- and T2-weighted MR images, and fat suppression images. The subjects were 57 renal transplant recipients (37 males and 20 females), whose median age at the time of transplantation was 31.5 years old (range, 10 to 58 years). Twelve patients developed band patterns (sign of established ONF) at an early postoperative period. Among them, 4 joints of 3 patients had a localized, faint signal abnormality in fat suppression images, where band pattern was confirmed later in T1- and T2-weighted images. In all the 57 patients, no bone marrow edema preceding to ONF was observed. Bone marrow edema would not be the cause of ONF in renal transplant patients. Early changes depicted in our fat suppression images would be useful information in the studies on pathogenesis of ONF.

Warthin-like tumor variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma: case report and literature review

A tumor approximately 4.0 x 3.0 cm in size with a cystic change was observed in the left lobe of the thyroid gland of a 52-year-old woman. The removed tumor had lymph follicle formation with a germinal center. This lymphatic tissue showed papillary and island-like growth; the growths were surrounded by atypical epithelium showing nuclear features of papillary carcinoma. The atypical epithelium had ground-glass nuclei with nuclear grooves, clearly indicating intranuclear cytoplasmic inclusion bodies. No chronic thyroiditis was observed in the background of the patient. Parts of the metastatic lymph nodes had cells with an eosinophilic cytoplasm, clearly showing an intratumor lymph follicle formation, as in the primary lesion. This is a rare case of thyroid papillary carcinoma similar to Warthin's tumor of the salivary gland. Here we present this case, with a review of previously published reports.

Staged coronary artery bypass grafting after percutaneous angioplasty for intracranial vascular stenosis

OBJECTIVE

Cerebrovascular disease is commonly associated with coronary artery disease and is a major risk factor for cardiac surgery. Concomitant coronary artery bypass grafting and carotid endarterectomy may reduce the risk of stroke; however, this staged operation is effective only for extracranial lesions. The strategy for on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting for patients with intracranial vascular stenosis is still controversial.

METHODS

The subjects were 157 consecutive candidates for coronary artery bypass grafting who underwent computed tomography and digital subtraction cerebral angiography preoperatively to check for cerebrovascular disease. Additional single-photon emission computed tomography was performed to evaluate cerebral ischemia, according to the neurologist's request. Patients with diffuse intracranial vascular stenosis impossible to treat with percutaneous transluminal angioplasty underwent off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting. Patients with a circumflex coronary artery lesion first underwent percutaneous transluminal angioplasty for cerebral vascular stenosis followed by secondary on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting.

RESULTS

Three patients were selected for staged operations. Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty was performed for 4 intracranial stenotic lesions. All lesions were dilated successfully, and no complications developed during or after the procedure. All patients tolerated staged coronary artery bypass grafting and were extubated within 1 day without any mental disturbance. No further neurologic complication occurred, and computed tomography performed postoperatively revealed no significant changes.

CONCLUSION

Staged on-pump coronary bypass after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty for cerebrovascular disease may reduce the risk of stroke during cardiopulmonary bypass, and it is useful especially in patients with intracranial cerebrovascular disease.

Cationic polymer-mediated genetic transduction into cultured human chondrosarcoma-derived HCS-2/8 cells

The usefulness of three types of cationic polymer, i.e., degraded polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimer (SuperFect Transfection Reagent; Oiagen), linear polyethylenimine (PEI; ExGen 500; Euromedex), and branched PEI in gene delivery into chondrocytes was examined comparatively. A plasmid vector containing the Escherichia coli LacZ (pSES.beta) was combined with one of the three cationic polymers at various molar ratios and the resultant complex (polyplex) was used to transduce a human chondrocyte-like cell line, HCS-2/8. Gene expression was evaluated by an O-nitrophenyl beta-D-galactopyranoside (ONPG) assay and by staining with 0.05% 5-bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl-beta-D-galactopyranoside (X-gal; Nacalai Tesque). The ONPG assay showed that the highest delivery rate was achieved when 2microg of pSES.beta was combined with either 21 microg of dendrimer, 1.7microg of linear PEI, or 2.0microg of branched PEI. At the same DNA/polymer ratios, the proportions of X-gal-stained cells were also the highest (31.3 +/- 7.5%, 30.3 +/- 9.0%, and 8.3 +/- 3.1%, respectively). LacZ expression reached the highest level 3 days after the dendrimer-mediated transduction, and gradually declined, returning to the background level on day 14. Possible cytotoxicity was examined by trypan blue staining and phase contrast microscopic observations. Neither cytotoxicity nor morphological change was induced at the optimal dose of each polymer. The cationic polymers, particularly the degraded dendrimer and linear PEI, would be a useful nonviral vector for gene delivery to cells of chondrocytes.

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head that developed after long-term topical steroid application

This is a report of a 52-year-old man who developed osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONF) following long-term application of steroid for facial eczema. Before hip pain appeared, the patient had applied 2-3g/day of 0.05% clobetasol propionate for 2 years and 10 months. This steroid is classified as being in the strongest category. ONF was diagnosed based on radiographic and magnetic resonance imaging findings, and the patient received surgical treatment for both hips. ONF was also confirmed by pathological examination of a specimen obtained from the right femoral head during surgery. Because there were no risk factors for ONF besides topical steroid application, this case was considered as ONF associated with topical steroid. Even when steroids are for external use, their dosage and administration should be monitored, and the risk of ONF should also be considered.

Electrophysiological course of uraemic neuropathy in haemodialysis patients

The objective of this study was to confirm electrophysiologically both the presence and course of uraemic neuropathy in haemodialysis patients. Nerve conduction studies of the lower extremities were done in 70 haemodialysis patients and 20 normal volunteers. Compared with that in normal volunteers, the distal motor latency in the tibial nerve of patients was prolonged significantly (p<0.05), and the minimal F wave latency in the tibial nerve was also prolonged significantly (p<0.05). Motor conduction velocity in the tibial nerve was reduced significantly (p<0.05), and sensory nerve conduction velocity in the medial plantar nerve also was reduced significantly (p<0.05). These results suggest the presence of uraemic neuropathy in haemodialysis patients. Twenty patients were investigated by a follow up study five years later. Parameters from F wave conduction studies, which were thought to be the most useful in the evaluation of neuropathy, showed no significant differences between the initial and follow up trials. These observations suggest that uraemic neuropathy does not progress during haemodialysis. These results also suggest that most haemodialysis patients showed electrophysiological evidence of uraemic neuropathy, but no remarkable electrophysiological change in uraemic neuropathy during haemodialysis was recognised.

Bone reaction induced by femoral stem of titanium alloy endoprosthesis for malignant bone tumors at the distal femur

We demonstrated radiological evaluations after limb salvage surgery with an uncemented titanium endoprosthesis possessing a rotating hinge-type knee joint for 7 patients with malignant bone tumors at the distal femur. Although radiographically, cortical hypertrophy and new bone formation at the junction between implant and cortex appeared in all cases, there was a small quantity of subsidence of the implant in all cases. Loosening of the stem was found in 2 patients at 4 and 9 years after surgery. However, after revision surgery, the function restored as before. The latest average functional score according to the system of the International Society of Limb Salvage was good, being 73%.

Prediction of mechanical properties of healing fractures using acoustic emission

The objective of this study was to develop a non-destructive method for monitoring fracture healing with acoustic emission (AE). Experimentally produced fractures of the rat femur were tested in tension and in torsion at 4, 6, 8 and 12 weeks after fracture. AE signals were monitored during these mechanical tests. The values for load and torque at the initiation of the AE signal were defined as new mechanical parameters. The apparent density and ash density of the fracture site were also measured at each time period. Tensile strength, tensile stiffness, maximum torque and torsional stiffness of the fracture site increased with time. The AE signal was detected before complete specimen failure. Load and torque for initiation of AE increased proportionally with increasing mechanical properties. The mineral density, however, reached a plateau at 8 weeks, when callus mechanical strength was approximately 50% of control. Load for initiation of AE was strongly correlated with the strength (r = 0.98), stiffness (r = 0.88), and failure strain (r = -0.63) of the callus. Torque for initiation of AE was highly correlated with the maximum torque (r = 0.95) and torsional stiffness (r= 0.93) of the callus. The findings of the present study indicated that some mechanical properties of healing fractures could be estimated by monitoring AE signals.

Effect of acetabular cup position and orientation in cemented total hip arthroplasty

Long-term clinical results of total hip arthroplasty for patients with developmental acetabular dysplasia of the hip have been reported, but placement of the femoral head center or cup orientation remains controversial, especially with a severe anterolateral shallow acetabulum or dislocated femoral head. Results of 41 Müller and 34 Harris Design 2 cemented total hip arthroplasties were evaluated for developmental dysplasia of the hip. The femoral head center and acetabular cup inclination angle were measured from the interteardrop line. Linear wear and wear direction were measured using the Livermore technique. The best position of the femoral head center was less than 35 mm vertically from the interteardrop line and 25 mm laterally from the teardrop. Femoral head center analysis showed that hips with the cup in a lateral and superior cup position all were revised, but a superior and medial position combined with a cup inclination angle less than 40 degrees did not require revision. Hips with a cup inclination angle more than 45 degrees had superior and lateral penetration patterns of the polyethylene. However, hips with an inclination angle less than 35 degrees and medial placement had medial head penetration patterns. With these all-polyethylene monolithic cemented cups, regardless of the femoral head diameter or cup thickness, better long-term results occurred with a cup inclination angle of 40 degrees or less and medial position of the cup.

Characteristic features of the acetabular labrum in healthy children

Radial magnetic resonance images of the acetabular labrum were obtained on 40 hips of healthy children. There were no right-left or male-female differences. In children aged 11 years or younger, the labrum on the antero-superior weightbearing portion was triangular in shape, and there was an insular-shaped or linear high-intensity area inside; on the mid-superior portion, the labrum appeared as a regular triangular, low-intensity area; and on the postero-superior portion, it was flat. In children aged 12 and 13 years, the shape of the labrum in each portion was similar to that of the younger children, but the high signal intensity area on the antero-superior portion appeared less frequently. The size of the labrum relative to the femoral head was greater in younger children.

Primary total knee arthroplasty for supracondylar/condylar femoral fracture in osteoarthritic knees

Supracondylar or condylar femoral fractures require extended treatment and often result in loss of knee range of motion. We present 3 cases in which femoral fractures and preexisting painful knees secondary to osteoarthritis were treated using total knee arthroplasty with a stemmed femoral implant. The patients were all women aged 83, 84, and 87 years old. All fractures united within 3 months, and the patients could walk with 1 cane within 2 months. Primary total knee arthroplasty should be considered as a treatment for supracondylar/condylar femoral fractures in osteoarthritic knees.