Patellofemoral joint disorders

Patellofemoral joint problems refer to a spectrum of conditions affecting the patellofemoral joint, which is the joint between the patella and femur. These conditions can cause pain and instability in the knee and affect an individual’s ability to perform daily activities. Patellofemoral joint problems commonly cause knee pain, particularly among young athletes and physically active individuals. This review article discusses current patellofemoral joint problems, including their epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management.Current Concepts: Patellofemoral joint problems are presented as clinical symptoms of pain and instability. Dividing the diagnostic criteria into anterior knee pain, patella instability, and patellofemoral arthritis is useful. Anterior knee pain is diagnosed after excluding possible causes. Patellar instability is classified into recurrent dislocation, habitual dislocation (extension and flexion types), and permanent dislocation. Moreover, patellar instability can progress to the final stage of patellofemoral arthritis. Thus, patellar instability should be treated according to the Dejour criterion, and patellofemoral arthritis treatment requires artificial joint replacement surgery.Discussion and Conclusion: The pathological mechanism of patellofemoral joint problems still needs to be properly established, and multifactorial causes make it difficult to treat patellofemoral joint problems. Accurate diagnosis is considered an essential factor for successful treatment.

Comparison of the Effectiveness of Three Lumbosacral Orthoses on Early Spine Surgery Patients: A Prospective Cohort Study

Objective@#To compare the convenience and effectiveness of the existing lumbosacral orthoses (LSO) (classic LSO and Cybertech) and a newly developed LSO (V-LSO) by analyzing postoperative data. @*Methods@#This prospective cohort study was performed from May 2019 to November 2019 and enrolled and analyzed 88 patients with degenerative lumbar spine disease scheduled for elective lumbar surgery. Three types of LSO that were provided according to the time of patient registration were applied for 6 weeks. Patients were randomized into the classic LSO group (n=31), Cybertech group (n=26), and V-LSO group (n=31). All patients were assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) preoperatively and underwent plain lumbar radiography (anteroposterior and lateral views) 10 days postoperatively. Lumbar lordosis (LS angle) and frontal imbalance were measured with and without LSO. At the sixth postoperative week, a follow-up assessment with the ODI and orthosis questionnaire was conducted. @*Results@#No significant differences were found among the three groups in terms of the LS angle, frontal imbalance, ODI, and orthosis questionnaire results. When the change in the LS angle and frontal imbalance toward the reference value was defined as a positive change with and without LSO, the rate of positive change was significantly different in the V-LSO group (LS angle: 41.94% vs. 61.54% vs. 83.87%; p=0.003). @*Conclusion@#The newly developed LSO showed no difference regarding its effectiveness and compliance when compared with the existing LSO, but it was more effective in correcting lumbar lordosis.

Influence of Gonarthrosis on Sagittal Spinal Alignment

STUDY DESIGN: Research using radiographic findings. OBJECTIVES: To compare spinopelvic parameters in detail between normal subjects and those who had bilateral gonarthrosis with or without spondylosis. SUMMARY OF LITERATURE REVIEW: The relationship between knee joint flexion contracture and hypolordosis in the lumbar spine has been well established. However, spinopelvic parameters in subjects with gonarthrosis without flexion contracture have not been well described in the literature. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-seven male subjects in their 60s with bilateral gonarthrosis over Kellgren-Lawrence grade III were included. They were subdivided into the KS group (with spinal osteoarthritis, n=32) and the KN group (without spinal osteoarthritis, n=25). Normal asymptomatic subjects without disease in their back or leg were analyzed as the control group (NN; n=84). The following spinopelvic parameters were measured and compared; C7 plumbline (C7PL), thoracic kyphosis (TK), thoracolumbar kyphosis (TLK), lumbar lordosis (LL), sacral slope (SS), pelvic tilt (PT), and pelvic incidence (PI). RESULTS: In the KS group, the C7PL was significantly anteriorly displaced compared to the KN group (1.7±4.5 cm vs. −0.6±2.9 cm, p=0.031) and the NN group (1.7±4.5 cm vs. −0.5±2.9 cm, p=0.014). TK in the KN group was significantly smaller than in the NN group (25.4±8.8° vs. 30.1±8.3°, p=0.041). The KS group had the smallest value of LL, while the NN group had the largest value of LL (−23.2±48.7° vs. −44.9±33.8° vs. −57.3±8.5°, p<0.001). No significant difference was observed in PI, SS, or PT among the 3 groups. A strong correlation was found between LL and SS in the NN group (R=−0.776, p<0.01), while this correlation was moderate in the KN group (R=−0.355, p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Overall balance was maintained in the subjects who had gonarthrosis without spinal osteoarthritis. Subjects with gonarthrosis showed less LL, especially if they had spinal osteoarthritis. Further studies are needed to characterize the differences in these pelvic parameters, and to evaluate changes in individuals with knee joint flexion contracture.

Use of Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) in the Journal of the Korean Orthopaedic Association / 대한정형외과학회잡지

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to analyze the equality between author key words used in the Journal of the Korean Orthopaedic Association and controlled vocabulary or medical subject headings (MeSH). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 1,058 English key words in 320 papers (average 3.3 words in a paper) from 2009 to 2012 were eligible for this study. We classified them according to matched, partially matched, and non-matched terms. The partially matched terms were further dissected into entry terms, qualifiers, anteriorly or posteriorly matched, abbreviations, and pleurals. After descriptive analysis, we assayed patterns of errors in using MeSH, and reviewed frequently used non-MeSH terms. RESULTS: The rate of matched terms was 23.5% for an average of four years, and 34.8% for 2013, which is on the rise by year. The rate of partially matched terms was 34.8%, and that of non-matched terms was 41.7% for an average of four years. The most frequently used key words were Knee and Total knee arthroplasty (17 times), followed by Osteoarthritis (9), Femur, Hip, and Total hip arthroplasty (8). CONCLUSION: Use of proper keywords aligned with the international standards such as MeSH is important to be properly cited. The authors should pay attention and be educated on correct use of MeSH as key words.

Huge Epidural Hematoma after Epidural Neurolysis using NaviCath(R)

STUDY DESIGN: Case report. OBJECTIVES: To report a huge epidural hematoma after epidural neurolysis. SUMMARY OF LITERATURE REVIEW: No complications have been reported regarding to hematoma formations after neurolysis using NaviCath(R). MATERIAL AND METHODS: A 67-year-old male with normal serum coagulation parameter experienced excruciating back and leg pains after neurolysis using NaviCath(R). RESULTS: After performing prompt multilevel laminotomy with hematoma evacuation, the patient recovered from pains without any neurological sequelae. CONCLUSIONS: It is important to be cautious while performing neurolysis with NaviCath(R) to avoid the epidural hematoma. Surgical treatment is an effective option to resolve the spinal epidural hematoma.

Deep Femoral Vessel Injury Following Subtrochanteric Hip Fracture: A Case Report

Arterial trauma associated with hip fracture treatment is still a rare complication. We present a case in which an arterial injury was discovered during closed reduction and intramedullary nail fixation of a subtrochanteric hip fracture. The preoperative thigh circumference was increased due to severe swelling, and the vascular injury was located substantially proximal to the fracture and the instrumentation area. An interventional angiogram revealed a damaged vessel originating from one of the minor proximal branches of the right deep femoral artery while filling a 2 cm-sized pseudoaneurysm. Embolization was performed without further complications.

Changes in Sagittal Spinopelvic Parameters according to Pelvic Incidence in Asymptomatic Old Korean Men

STUDY DESIGN: A radiographic study of normal subjects. OBJECTIVES: To analyze sagittal spinal parameters according to the size of pelvic incidence (PI). SUMMARY OF LITERATURE REVIEW: There has been no previous study about the classification of spinopelvic parameters that has used a large cohort of asymptomatic older men with the same ethnic background as those in the current study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We examined 160 males aged over 50 without disease, trauma, or history of operation on spine or lower extremities. Sagittal standing radiographs of the whole spine on 36-inch film were taken. Group 1 (n=30) had a PI of less than 40degrees. Group 2 (n=71) had PI between 40degrees and 50degrees, and group 3 (n=59) had a PI greater than 50degrees. Thoracic kyphosis, thoracolumbar kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, the vertebral slope of T12, sacral slope, and pelvic incidence were measured. The distances from the plumb line of C7, T12, and the lumbar apex to the posterosuperior corner of the sacrum were also measured. RESULTS: Subjects' average age was 64.1(53~83).Lumbar lordosis, sacral slope and pelvic tilt were all significantly increased in group 3. Thoracic kyphosis and the vertebral slope of T12 were not different between groups. The distances from the plumb line of C7, T12, and the lumbar apex to the posterosuperior corner of the sacrum were significantly translated anteriorly in group 3. CONCLUSIONS: Group 3, who had the largest PI, demonstrated the largest lumbar lordosis and the most forward transition of trunk. However there were no differences in thoracic kyphosis and the vertebral slope of T12 among the three groups.

Delirium after Intertrochanteric Fractures of Femur in Elderly Patients

PURPOSE: To evaluate the incidence, risk factors and prognosis of delirium in elderly patients with intertrochanteric fractures of femur. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 162 patients who underwent operation for intertrochanteric fracture of femur from July 2005 to January 2007 were reviewed retrospectively. Delirium was diagnosed by using Confusion Assessment Method (CAM). Medical records were reviewed for the information of the patients, Gross motor function classification of Palisano et al. was used for the evaluation of ambulatory status. Univariate analysis and multivariate analysis were done to find out the risk factors. RESULTS: 2 cases out of 162 (1.2%) met the criteria of delirium at admission, and 39 cases (24.1%) after surgery. Univariate analysis and multivariate analysis identified age, hematocrit, dementia, the duration of opiate use, and pulmonary complication as risk factors. Hospital stay was longer and postoperative ambulatory status was worse in the patients with delirium. CONCLUSION: Delirium is a frequent complication of intertrochanteric fractures of old age and associated with worse results. Cognitive function as well as physical status should be evaluated before and after surgery. Delirium needs more active prevention and treatment for better results.

Changes of Sagittal Spinopelvic Parameters in Normal Koreans with Age over 50

STUDY DESIGN: A prospective comparative study. PURPOSE: To describe the changes in the spinopelvic parameters on normal Koreans more than 50 years of age. OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE: There are differing opinions regarding the changes in the thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, C7 plumb with age in the elderly population. METHODS: Sagittal standing radiographs of the whole spine including the pelvis in 132 Korean adult male volunteers more than 50 years of age were evaluated prospectively. Volunteers with a history of spine operation, spinal disease, pain in their back or legs, scoliosis, spondylolisthesis, monosegment disc space narrowing, or compression fracture in radiographs were excluded. The following parameters were included: thoracic kyphosis (T5 upper end plate [UEP]-T12 lower end plate [LEP]), thoracolumbar kyphosis (T10 UEP-L2 LEP), lumbar lordosis (T12 LEP-S1 UEP), lower lumbar lordosis (L4 UEP-S1 UEP), sacral slope, pelvic incidence, and the distances from the C7 plumb to the posterosuperior endplate of S1. These parameters in the 6th, 7th and 8th decade groups were compared and the changes in these parameters according to age were examined. RESULTS: The thoracic kyphosis demonstrated significant differences in the in the three age groups (p = 0.019), and increased with age (r = 0.239, p < 0.006). The other parameters did not show any significant difference or correlation. CONCLUSIONS: Similar global sagittal balances and spinopelvic parameters may be observed in Korean males older than 50 years, with a trend towards increasing thoracic kyphosis with age.

Variations in Sagittal Spinopelvic Parameters According to the Lumbar Spinal Morphology in Healthy Korean Young Men

STUDY DESIGN: This is a prospective radiographic study. OBJECTIVES: We wanted to describe and quantify the common variations in the sagittal lumbar spine. SUMMARY OF THE LITERATURE REVIEW: No previous study of the spinopelvic parameters with a large cohort of asymptomatic young men was performed on subjects with the same ethnic background. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 166 young males without disease, trauma or a history of operation on the spine or lower extremities were included. The sagittal standing radiographs of the whole spine on 36 inch film were taken. The distances from the plumb line of C7, T12, the lumbar apex and the bicoxofemoral head to the posterosuperior corner of the sacrum were measured. Thoracic kyphosis, thoracolumbar kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, the segmental vertebral slopes, the sacral slope and the pelvic incidence were measured. Groups 1 and 2 were classified by having a sacral slope less than 35degrees (group 1: apex below L4, group 2: above L4). Group 3 had a sacral slope between 35degrees and 45degrees, and group 4 had a sacral slope greater than 45degrees. RESULTS: The average age was 21.8 years (range: 19~26 years). Group 1 contained 37 cases, group 2 had 44, group 3 had 62 and group 4 had 23. Thoracolumbar kyphosis was significantly increased in group 1 and lumbar lordosis and pelvic incidence were increased in groups 3 and 4. Thoracic kyphosis and the vertebral slope of T12 did not demonstrate any difference between the groups. CONCLUSION: The sagittal spinopelvic parameters showed significant changes according to the morphology of the lower lumbar spine. Understanding the patterns of variation in the spinopelvic parameters may help surgeons to plan treatment for various spinal lesions.

The Differences between Fixation Devices for Proximal Chevron Osteotomy in Hallux Valgus Surgery / 대한족부족관절학회지

PURPOSE: The authors evaluated the differences between K-wires and Bold screw for fixing the proximal metatarsal chevron osteotomy of moderate and severe hallux valgus. MATERIALS AND METHODS: There were 59 patients (81 feet) who were moderate and severe degree hallux valgus according to the classification of Mann. They all got the proximal chevron osteotomy when correcting the deformity. All patients were followed up at least 6 months. We divided the patients into 2 groups, K-wires fixed group as A, Bold screw fixed group as B. Group A were 42 patients (63 feet) and Group B were 18 patients (19 feet). Among the Group B, 2 feet who were failed to fix the oetotomy site with Bold screw, were fixed with K-wires during operation. We measured the AOFAS score preoperatively, postoperatively and at final follow-up, VAS score at 2 weeks after the operation. Also preoperative, postoperative and follow-up hallux valgus angle (HVA) and intermetatarsal angle (IMA) were measured for each patients. RESULTS: Mean follow up period was 1.34 year (range: 6 months-6.16 years). Mean VAS score of group A was 3.21+/-1.7 and group B 1.76+/-1.0. Preoperative mean AOFAS score of group A was 45.61+/-8.3, group B 44.41+/-8.9, the final mean score of group A was 88.87+/-8.3 and group B 92.47+/-4.4. Preoperative mean HVA was 30.82+/-6.6 degrees in group A and 32.88+/-14.5 degrees in group B, the final mean angle of group A was 14.89+/-8.3 degrees and group B 17+/-4.4 degrees. The preoperative mean IMA of group A was 13.69+/-3.6 degrees and group B 12.35+/-5.2, the final mean angle of group A was 9.26+/-3.6 degrees and group B 12.35+/-5.8 degrees. CONCLUSION: There were no statistical differences in radiologic and clinical results (p>0.05) but, group B exceeded group A in VAS score (p=0.0007) and had no statistical significance in terms of reduction angle loss (p=0.06). Early returning to normal life activity may be possible for patients using Bold screws.

Total Ankle Arthroplasty : Short Term follow up Results of Semiconstrained Type and Unconstrained Type / 대한족부족관절학회지

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to compare the two prosthesis that used for total ankle arthroplasty. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From Sept. 2003 to Jun 2006, 13 patients and 14 ankles that could be follow up more than 1 months. Semiconstrained type (Group I, 7 cases) and Unconstrained type (Group II, 7 cases) were used for total ankle arthroplasty. Mean age was 63.2 year-old, 12 ankles are men and 2 ankles were women. Mean follow up periods were 29 months. The criteria to compare the clinical result were postoperative range of motion, AOFAS score and residual bone stock of medial malleolus. RESULTS: Postoperative range of motion of group I was 43.6+/-9.4 degrees and of group II was 50.7+/-7.3 degrees (p=0.115). Postoperative AOFAS score of group I was 77.1+/-13.0 points and of group II was 86.0+/-5.7 points (p=0.094). Resected bone stock in medial malleolus of group I was 10.7+/-2.5 mm and of group II was 5.1+/-1.2 mm (p=0.003). Total number of complication in our study was 9 cases. 3 cases were a malleolar fracture, two occurred at intra-operation, the other at follow-up period. Re-operation was done in 6 cases, 3 cases were calcaneal corrective osteotomy, 2 cases were resection of a heterotopic bone and one case was pedicular flap operation for skin problem. CONCLUSION: In our hospital, mobile bearing type prosthesis shows good result than a semiconstrained type in respect of residual bone stock in medial malleolus. Postoperative range of motion and AOFAS score between two groups shows no significant difference. But small number of patients and short term follow up period is a defect in our study, afterward more population and long term follow up period are needed.