Component Asymmetry in Bilateral Cementless Total Hip Arthroplasty

Background@#This study investigated the results of component asymmetry (CA) in bilateral cementless total hip arthroplasty (THA). @*Methods@#This study included 300 patients, who underwent bilateral cementless THA between April 2000 and December 2017. They were divided into the component symmetry (CS) and CA groups; CA group was sub-classified into acetabular component asymmetry (ACA) and femoral component asymmetry (FCA). Radiologic and clinical outcomes of the CA group were compared with those of the CS group. @*Results@#The incidence of CA was 25.7% (77/300 patients), including 55 patients with ACA, 34 patients with FCA, and 12 with both components asymmetric. The mean time interval between operations in the CA group was significantly longer than that in the CS group (p < 0.001). The mean differences in horizontal and vertical distances from teardrop to the center of rotation of the acetabular component between both hips in the ACA group were significantly larger than those in the CS group (p = 0.033 and p < 0.001, respectively). The mean femoral component alignment angle difference between both hips was significantly larger in the FCA group than in the CS group (p < 0.001). The mean Harris Hip Score at last follow-up of the CA group was similar to that of the CS group. @*Conclusions@#CA in patients undergoing bilateral cementless THA was not rare, especially with a longer time interval between operations. Regardless of CA, when stable fixation of the components was achieved, satisfactory radiologic and clinical outcomes were obtained.

Timing of Hip-fracture Surgery in Elderly Patients: Literature Review and Recommendations / 대한고관절학회지

The incidence of hip fractures is rapidly increasing with an aging population and is now one of the most important health concerns worldwide due to a high mortality rate. The effect of delayed surgery on postoperative outcomes has been widely discussed. Although various treatment guidelines for hip fractures in the elderly exist, most institutions recommend that operations are conducted as soon as possible to help achieve the most favorable outcomes. While opinions differ on the relationship between delayed surgery and postoperative mortality, a strong association between earlier surgery and improvement in postoperative outcomes (e.g., length of hospital stay, bedsore occurrence, return to an independent lifestyle), has been reported. Taken together, performing operations for hip fractures in the elderly within 48 hours of admission appears to be best practice. Importantly, however, existing evidence is based primarily on observational studies which are susceptible to inherent bias. Here, we share the results of a literature search to summarize data that helps inform the most appropriate surgical timing for hip fractures in the elderly and the effects of delayed surgery on postoperative outcome. In addition, we expect to be able to provide a more accurate basis for these correlations through a large-scale randomized controlled trial in the future and to present data supporting recommendations for appropriate surgical timing.

Surgical Outcomes of Internal Fixation Using Multiple Screws in Femoral Neck Fractures with Valgus Impaction: When Should We Consider Hip Arthroplasty? A Retrospective, Multicenter Study / 대한고관절학회지

PURPOSE: We analyzed the surgical outcomes at two institutions after internal fixation using multiple screws in femoral neck fractures with valgus impaction to determine independent predictors and their cut-off values for nonunion and reoperation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between January 2006 and December 2016, 104 femoral neck fractures with valgus impaction that underwent internal fixation using multiple screws from two institutions were enrolled. The multiple logistic regression model and receiver operating characteristics analysis were used to determine the independent predictors and cut-off values for nonunion and reoperation. RESULTS: There were 20 reoperations (19.2%) due to 11 nonunions (10.6%) and nine cases of femoral head osteonecrosis (8.7%). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that independent predictors of nonunion and reoperation were age and posterior tilt angle (P<0.05). The cut-off value for age and the posterior tilt angle for reoperation were 72.5 years and 12.2°, respectively. The patients with a posterior tilt angle of greater than 13° had poorer radiological and clinical outcomes compared with those with a posterior tilt angle of less than 13°, even though they did achieve bone union. CONCLUSION: Primary hip arthroplasty should be considered in patients older than 73 years of age with a posterior tilt angle greater than 13°.

An Uncommon Case of Bilateral Pathologic Hip Fractures: Antiviral Drug-induced Osteomalacia in a Patient with Hepatitis B / 대한고관절학회지

The long-term use of adefovir and tenofovir–antiviral medications commonly used to treat chronic hepatitis B–can be associated with proximal renal tubular dysfunction resulting in significant hypophosphatemic osteomalacia. However, there have been few reports about pathological fractures requiring surgical stabilization in cases of antiviral drug-induced hypophosphatemic osteomalacia. We present the case of a 51-year-old man who sustained bilateral pathological hip fractures associated with antiviral drug-induced hypophosphatemic osteomalacia. To treat a lamivudine-resistant hepatitis-B viral infection, the patient received adefovir for 7 years followed by tenofovir for the subsequent 3 years. He had suffered from polyarthralgia and generalized weakness for 2 years prior to presentation at our clinic. Misdiagnosis and inadequate management of his condition accelerated weakness of the bone matrix and ultimately induced pathological fractures. The patient was managed via cementless total hip arthroplasty on the left hip and internal fixation on the right hip. This case highlights that orthopaedic surgeons should consider the possibility of hypophosphatemic osteomalacia if patients receiving antiviral drugs complain of polyarthralgia and generalized weakness.

Clinical and Radiologic Results Comparing the Periarticular Proximal Humerus Locking Plate and Polarus Nail for Displaced Proximal Humerus Fractures

BACKGROUND: This study compared the clinical and radiological outcomes of the single calcar screw plate and Polarus nail techniques for the treatment of the proximal humerus fractures. METHODS: Seventy-two patients diagnosed with displaced proximal humerus fracture were enrolled for the study. Of these, 50 patients underwent the locking plate surgery with a single calcar screw (plate group), whereas 22 patients underwent the Polarus nail surgery (nail group). The plate group was further divided into plate 1 group (with medial support), and plate 2 group (without medial support). The radiological and functional results of both groups were compared to the nail group. RESULTS: The α angle 1 year after surgery was significantly different between plate 1 and plate 2, and plate 2 and nail groups (p=0.041, p=0.043, respectively). The ratio that does not satisfy the reference value of γ angle was 2.8% in plate 1, 7.1% in plate 2 and 22.7% in nail group (p=0.007); there was a significant difference between plate 1 and nail group, and plate 2 and nail group (p=0.014, p=0.033, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: No significant differences were observed in the clinical results between locking plate and Polarus nail. However, in the plate 2 group and nail group, the rate of failure to maintain reduction during the 1-year period after surgery was statistically and significantly higher than the plate 1 group (level of evidence: level IV, case series, treatment study).

The Relationship between Early Improvement of Subjective Symptom and Surgical Outcomes in Moderate to Severe Cubital Tunnel Syndrome / 대한정형외과학회잡지

PURPOSE: Moderate to severe cubital tunnel syndrome usually requires surgical treatment. Most surgical outcomes are evaluated 6 months after the procedure; however, subjective symptoms begin to show improvement much earlier. In this study, we explored whether patients who experience early improvement of subjective symptoms have different clinical characteristics and surgical outcomes than those without early improvement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between January 2012 and February 2015, 36 surgical cases of moderate- to severe-stage cubital tunnel syndrome (modified McGowan grade IIA, IIB, or III) were included. Nineteen patients (15 males and 4 females with a mean age of 54.3±12.0 years) reported subjective symptom improvements within 14 days postoperatively. Seventeen patients (15 males and 2 females with a mean age of 53.4±11.9 years) did not report any early symptom improvements. Clinical characteristics—hand dominance, sex, smoking history, type of surgery, age, symptom duration, elbow range of motion, grip strength, key pinch strength, 2 point discrimination, pain, quick disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) score, and modified McGowan grade—were analyzed retrospectively using a Mann-Whitney test or chi square test. Surgical outcomes were measured at postoperative 3 and 12 months using repeated-measures ANOVA, and Wilson and Krout criteria were analyzed using a chi-square test. RESULTS: There was a difference in key pinch strength (p<0.001) between the groups. At postoperative 12 months, Wilson and Krout criteria (p=0.029) were associated with early improvement of subjective symptoms. The subjects' quick DASH scores and grip strengths improved over time, but no difference was observed between the groups. CONCLUSION: After surgical treatments of moderate to severe cubital tunnel syndrome, patients who presented early improvement of subjective symptoms, compared with those who did not, had significantly higher preoperative key pinch strength and better surgical outcomes at postoperative 12 months.

The Difference between Short and Long Intramedullary Nailing as the Treatment for Unstable Intertrochanteric Femoral Fracture (AO/OTA 31-A2) in Elderly Patients / 대한정형외과학회잡지

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to analyze the radiological and clinical outcomes in elderly patients with unstable intertrochanteric femur fractures in accordance with the length of intramedullary nail. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between August 2009 and December 2014, a total of 139 patients–older than 65 years of age with AO/OTA classification of 31-A2 unstable intertrochanteric femur fracture–who has been followed-up for at least 1 year after the treatment with internal fixation by using an intramedullary nail were enrolled for this retrospective control study. The subjects were classified into two groups according to the length of intramedullary nail: 106 patients in the short group (group I) and 33 patients in the long group (group II). For radiological assessments, the reduction state, time to union, and implant related complications were examined. The clinical outcomes were assessed by preoperative hemoglobin, operating time, intraoperative bleeding amount, blood transfusion rate, hospitalization period, and Charnley hip pain scoring system at the final follow-up. RESULTS: The postoperative radiographs showed good or acceptable reduction in all cases. The mean time of radiologic bone union was 4.8 months, and there was no difference between the two groups. With respect to surgical time, the group II was found to take longer (57.87 minutes) than the group I (45.65 minutes) (p=0.003). The bleeding amount during surgery of the group II was greater (288.78 ml) than that of the group I (209.90 ml) (p=0.046). The clinical results at the final follow-up were found to be satisfactory in both groups. CONCLUSION: In cases of good reduction of the fracture from the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric femur fracture accompanying the posteromedial fragment in elderly patients, both groups–long and short intramedullary nails–showed satisfactory radiological and clinical outcomes.

Recent Updates of the Diagnosis and Prevention of Venous Thromboembolism in Patients with a Hip Fracture / 대한고관절학회지

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a potentially fatal complication that is relatively common after hip surgery. Since patients with a hip fracture have a higher risk of preoperative VTE due to an inability to ambulate after injury and aggravation of underlying age-related conditions, it may be difficult to effectively prevent VTE using only conventional approaches. Very few studies have been published reporting on the prevalence and prevention of VTE in patients with a hip fracture compared to those with hip arthroplasty. For this reason, we aimed to share recent updates on the diagnosis and prevention of VTE in patients with a hip fracture. Preoperative screening tests to diagnose VTE need to be performed more actively following hip fracture and indirect multidetector computed tomography venography is considered the most effective test for this purpose. As the risk of VTE appears to increase with time following a hip fracture, preventive measures should be taken as soon as possible in patients with a hip fracture. A wide variety of mechanical and pharmacological options are available for prophylaxis. When considering patient compliance and preventive impact, intermittent pneumatic compression devices and foot pumps are recommended as mechanical modalities. Of the available preventive medications for patients with a hip fracture, low molecular weight heparin seems to be the most appropriate option because of its short half-life and fast onset of action. Surgery should be performed as soon as possible in patients with hip fractures, and we recommend mechanical and pharmacological methods as active interventions immediately after injury to prevent VTE.

Clinical and Radiologic Results Comparing the Periarticular Proximal Humerus Locking Plate and Polarus Nail for Displaced Proximal Humerus Fractures

BACKGROUND: This study compared the clinical and radiological outcomes of the single calcar screw plate and Polarus nail techniques for the treatment of the proximal humerus fractures. METHODS: Seventy-two patients diagnosed with displaced proximal humerus fracture were enrolled for the study. Of these, 50 patients underwent the locking plate surgery with a single calcar screw (plate group), whereas 22 patients underwent the Polarus nail surgery (nail group). The plate group was further divided into plate 1 group (with medial support), and plate 2 group (without medial support). The radiological and functional results of both groups were compared to the nail group. RESULTS: The α angle 1 year after surgery was significantly different between plate 1 and plate 2, and plate 2 and nail groups (p=0.041, p=0.043, respectively). The ratio that does not satisfy the reference value of γ angle was 2.8% in plate 1, 7.1% in plate 2 and 22.7% in nail group (p=0.007); there was a significant difference between plate 1 and nail group, and plate 2 and nail group (p=0.014, p=0.033, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: No significant differences were observed in the clinical results between locking plate and Polarus nail. However, in the plate 2 group and nail group, the rate of failure to maintain reduction during the 1-year period after surgery was statistically and significantly higher than the plate 1 group (level of evidence: level IV, case series, treatment study).

Radiographic Outcomes of Osteosynthesis Using Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation (PFNA) System in Intertrochanteric Femoral Fracture: Has PFNA II Solved All the Problems? / 대한고관절학회지

PURPOSE: We evaluated the geometric discrepancies between the proximal femur in Koreans and two types of proximal femoral nail using plain radiographs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 100 consecutive patients (38 treated with proximal femoral nail antirotation [PFNA], 62 PFNA II) with intertrochanteric fracture were retrospectively identified. The minimum follow up period was 32 months. The geometric analysis of the proximal femur was performed using preoperative true hip antero-posterior radiographs of the unaffected side, and the data were compared with the PFNA and PFNA II dimensions. Postoperative assessments were performed using postoperative radiographs for the proximal protruding length of nail tip, quality of reduction, implant position and the presence of lateral cortical impingement. RESULTS: The geometric dimensions of the proximal femur were different between the two proximal femoral nail types. No impingement was detected in patients treated with PFNA II, whereas 13 cases of lateral impingement were observed in patients treated with PFNA. A significant association was observed between the short proximal femur and the presence of lateral cortical impingement (P=0.032) and between impingement and intraoperative reduction loss (P=0.012). Proximal protrusion of the nail tip was seen in 71 patients and no difference was observed between two groups. CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrates that the flat lateral surface of PFNA II can avoid lateral cortical impingement, which provide better fixation for intertrochanteric fracture. However, there was still a problem associated with longer proximal end of PFNA II compared with the proximal femoral length in Korean.

Recurrent Posterior Dislocation of the Elbow

The elbow joint is one of the most inherently stable articulations of the skeleton. Recurrent posterior dislocation of the elbow is a rare condition. We experienced a case of recurrent posterior dislocation of the elbow due to shallow trochlear notch and chronic radial head dislocation that was treated by transplantation of the biceps tendon to the coronoid process. We report on the case with a literature review.

Accuracy and Reliability of Preoperative On-screen Templating Using Digital Radiographs for Total Hip Arthroplasty / 대한고관절학회지

PURPOSE: Preoperative on-screen templating is a method of using acetate templates on digital images. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the accuracy, intra- and interobserver reliabilities of preoperative on-screen templating using digital radiographs for total hip arthroplasty (THA). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two hundred patients with hip disease who were treated with primary cementless THA were retrospectively evaluated. The accuracy of on-screen templating was assessed by comparing the predicted prosthesis sizes with the actual sizes used operatively. The inter- and intraobserver reliabilities of the templating results were also evaluated. RESULTS: The prosthesis prediction accuracy within ±one size was 96.6% for the cup size and 97.8% for the stem size. The inter- and intraobserver reliabilities for the implant size were substantial (kappa>0.70). The intra- and interobserver reliabilities for the leg length discrepancy and femoral offset difference using the intraclass correlation coefficient ranged from 0.89 to 0.97. CONCLUSION: Preoperative on-screen templating using digital radiographs showed substantial accuracy and reliability for implant prediction. It is an effective method for predicting the size of implant, correcting the leg length discrepancy and restoring the femoral offset.

Chronic Unreduced Elbow Dislocation Treated with Hinged External Fixator and Transarticular Pin Fixation / 대한정형외과학회잡지

Chronically unreduced elbow dislocation has commonly been described in underdeveloped countries. This is a very rare type of injury, and only two cases have been reported in Korea. Due to the potentially conflicting goals of restoring elbow stability and satisfactory function, successful treatment is a challenge even for experienced trauma surgeons. Herein, we described two cases of chronically unreduced elbow dislocation treated with open reduction and additional bony fixation using hinged external fixator and transarticular pin fixation.

Primary Intraosseus Xanthoma Involving the Proximal Femur in a Normolipidemic Patient: A Case Report / 대한고관절학회지

We report the case of a 25-year-old woman presenting with left hip pain. A lesion was found in the proximal femoral metaphysis. Benign bone tumor, such as intraosseous lipoma or liposclerosing myxofibrous tumor, was suspected based on simple radiographs and magnetic resonance images. Curettage of the lesion and bone grafting was performed. Histologic findings reflected primary intraosseous xanthoma of the proximal femur. Laboratory tests revealed the patient to be normolipidemic, while immunoelectrophoretic fractionation of lipoproteins revealed normal values for alpha, pre-beta, beta, and chylomicrons. At the one-year follow-up, there was no evidence of local recurrence. This is the first reported case of primary intraosseous xanthoma of the proximal femur in a normolipidemic patient.

Three Cases of Rare Anatomic Variations of the Long Head of Biceps Brachii

In general, the long head of the biceps brachii originates from the superior glenoid labrum and the supraglenoid tubercle, crosses the rotator cuff interval, and extends into the bicipital groove. However, rare anatomic variations of the origins of the long head have been reported in the past. In this report, we review the clinical history, radiologic findings, and arthroscopic identifications of 3 anatomic variants of the biceps tendon long head. As the detection of long head of biceps tendon pathology during preoperative radiologic assessment can be difficult without prior knowledge, surgeons should be aware of such possible anatomic variations.

Is Pancapsular Release More Effective than Selective Capsular Release for the Treatment of Adhesive Capsulitis?

BACKGROUND: We assessed the effectiveness of arthroscopic capsular release for the treatment of adhesive capsulitis. Further, we tried to ascertain the clinical benefits, if any, of pancapsular release over selective capsular release, where the two differ by performing or not performing a posterior capsular release, respectively. METHODS: Thirty-five consecutive patients with either primary or secondary adhesive capsulitis who failed conservative treatment for more than 6 months were enrolled in the study. A total of 16 patients allocated in group 1 received a pancapsular release that comprises the release of the rotator interval, anteroinferior capsular, and the posterior capsular release, whereas 19 patients in group 2 received a selective capsular release that comprises only the release of the rotator interval release and anteroinferior capsular release. The clinical outcomes, visual analogue scale (VAS) score, Constant score, and range of motion, were assessed preoperative and postoperatively. RESULTS: In both groups, the preoperative VAS score, Constant score, and ROM showed a significant improvement by the 6-month follow-up. We found that the immediate postoperative internal rotation was significantly higher in group 1 than group 2. Despite significant differences seen between the two groups at the initial postoperative period, there were no significant differences in Constant score, VAS score, and the ROM at all the subsequent follow-ups between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: Arthroscopic capsular release for the treatment of adhesive capsulitis is very effective. However, pancapsular release did not show any advantage over selective capsular release in terms of overall clinical outcome.

Results of Patients with Unstable Femoral Intertrochanteric Fractures Treated with Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation II / 대한정형외과학회잡지

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate radiologic and functional outcomes of patients with unstable femoral intertrochanteric fractures treated with proximal femoral nail antirotation II (PFNA II). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between August 2009 and December 2013, 108 hips (108 patients) with unstable femoral intertrochanteric fractures were treated with PFNA II and followed for at least 1 year. The mean follow-up period was 15.2 months. The radiographic outcomes, reduction state, sliding distance of the helical blade, bone union, and complications were assessed. The functional outcomes were assessed according to the Charnley hip pain scoring system, walking ability, and the Activities of Daily Living index. RESULTS: The postoperative radiograph showed a good or acceptable reduction in all cases. The mean sliding length of the blade was 4.1 mm. The mean duration of radiologic bone union was 4.8 months. There were 2 postoperative complications including nail breakage and nonunion. The mean Charnley hip pain score was 5.1 points. Preoperative walking ability was restored for 74.1% of patients. Preoperative activities of daily life were restored for 60.2% of patients. CONCLUSION: PFNA II used for treatment of unstable intertrochanteric fracture showed favorable outcomes. However, due to decreasing walking ability and delayed return to the activities of daily living, further studies are needed, focusing on functional recovery and rehabilitation to improve postoperative clinical outcomes.

Postoperative Cubital Tunnel Syndrome due to Deep Flexor Pronator Aponeurosis / 대한정형외과학회잡지

Entrapment of the ulnar nerve around the elbow is the second most common compression neuropathy in the upper extremity. Many anatomical regions that possibly compress the ulnar nerve around the elbow joint have been described, however few cases below the flexor carpi ulnaris muscle have been reported. A case with ulnar nerve entrapment at the flexor pronator aponeurosis, secondary to surgery is reported in this study.

The Role of Ultrasound Investigation: Sacral Dimples and Other Stigmata of Spinal Dysraphism in Infants

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective study. OBJECTIVES: Using ultrasound to evaluate association of minor cutaneous stigmas with occult spinal dysraphism (OSD) according to the presence of co-morbidities. SUMMARY OF LITERATURE REVIEW: OSD can be associated with various cutaneous markers. Ultrasound of the spine is an effective, non-invasive screening method. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Over a 5-year period (2009-2013), a total of 180 infants with various skin stigmas were evaluated. Ninety-seven patients were normal infants, eighty-three had other co-morbidities. The type of skin stigmata and/or co-morbidities as well as lumbar ultrasound results were reviewed for all patients. RESULTS: Three of the 97 normal infants had abnormalities. One of the three had OSD. Eighteen of the 83 infants with congenital anomalies had abnormalities, and eleven of the 18 had OSD. Infants with congenital anomalies were 6 times more likely to have OSD than normal infants (OR 5.98, 95% CI 1.927 to 18.612, p=0.001) and there was no significant correlation between the presence of minor skin lesions and the presence of dysraphism. CONCLUSIONS: So-called minor skin lesions were not markers of OSD in normal infants. However, because of the feasibility, simplicity, and low cost of spinal ultrasound, the examination is justified by the benefits of early diagnosis.

Three Cases of Rare Anatomic Variations of the Long Head of Biceps Brachii

In general, the long head of the biceps brachii originates from the superior glenoid labrum and the supraglenoid tubercle, crosses the rotator cuff interval, and extends into the bicipital groove. However, rare anatomic variations of the origins of the long head have been reported in the past. In this report, we review the clinical history, radiologic findings, and arthroscopic identifications of 3 anatomic variants of the biceps tendon long head. As the detection of long head of biceps tendon pathology during preoperative radiologic assessment can be difficult without prior knowledge, surgeons should be aware of such possible anatomic variations.