Position Statement: Atypical Femoral Fracture from the Korean Society for Bone and Mineral Research in 2023

As the aging population increases, the number of patients with osteoporosis is gradually rising. Osteoporosis is a metabolic bone disease characterized by low bone mass and the microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue, resulting in reduced bone strength and an increased risk of low-energy or fragility fractures. Thus, the use of anti-resorptive agents, such as bisphosphonates (BPs), to prevent osteoporotic fractures is growing annually. BPs are effective in reducing hip and other fractures. However, the longer a patient takes BPs, the higher the risk of an atypical femoral fracture (AFF). The exact mechanism by which long-term BP use affects the development of AFFs has not yet been clarified. However, several theories have been suggested to explain the pathogenesis of AFFs, such as suppressed bone remodeling, impaired bone healing, altered bone quality, and femoral morphology. The management of AFFs requires both medical and surgical approaches. BPs therapy should be discontinued immediately, and calcium and vitamin D levels should be evaluated and supplemented if insufficient. Teriparatide can be used for AFFs. Intramedullary nailing is the primary treatment for complete AFFs, and prophylactic femoral nailing is recommended if signs of an impending fracture are detected.

Clavicular Tunnel Complications after Coracoclavicular Reconstruction in Acute Acromioclavicular Dislocation: Coracoid Loop versus Coracoid Tunnel Fixation

Background@#The purpose of this study was to compare clavicular tunnel complications after coracoclavicular (CC) reconstruction between a coracoid loop fixation group and a coracoid tunnel fixation group. We hypothesized that clavicular tunnel complications would be more common in the coracoid loop group. @*Methods@#This retrospective study evaluated 24 patients who underwent CC reconstruction using coracoid tunnel fixation (n = 14) and coracoid loop fixation (n = 10). Radiographic measurements included the CC distance and clavicular tunnel diameter. Clavicular tunnel complications such as tunnel widening and clavicular tunnel fractures were investigated. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Shoulder score and the University of California at Los Angeles Shoulder score. @*Results@#The mean follow-up period was 17.5 months (range, 11–38 months). The final clavicular tunnel diameter and the increase in the clavicular tunnel diameter in millimeter and percentage were significantly greater in the coracoid loop group than in the coracoid tunnel group (all p < 0.05). Clavicular tunnel widening more than 100% was found in 5 patients, all belonging to the coracoid loop group. Clavicular tunnel fractures occurred in 3 patients (all in the coracoid loop group). Fracture was associated with severe tunnel widening (more than 100% increase). The mean value of the final clavicular tunnel diameter in patients with fractures was significantly larger than that in patients without (12.7 ± 3.3 mm vs. 8.4 ± 1.5 mm, p = 0.016). @*Conclusions@#Clavicular tunnel complications such as significant tunnel widening and fractures after CC reconstructions in acromioclavicular dislocations were common with the coracoid loop fixation technique. A greater clavicular tunnel widening and resultantly enlarged tunnel diameter might increase the risk of fracture through the clavicular tunnel.

Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder in the Korean population: demographics and its relation with coexisting rotator cuff tear

Background@#To evaluate the demographics, clinical and radiographic features of calcific tendinitis of the shoulder in the Korean population, specifically focusing on the incidence of coexisting rotator cuff tear. @*Methods@#Between October 2014 and January 2015, we performed a prospective multicenter study with 506 patients from 11 training hospitals in Korea. We collected data of demographics and radiographic analysis based on simple radiographs, clinical assessments based on visual analog scale (VAS) and the American Shoulder Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, and treatment modalities that are used currently. We also evaluated coexisting rotator cuff tear by ultrasonography (US) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images. @*Results@#There were 402 female patients (79%) with mean age of 55 years (range, 31–87 years). Mean duration of symptoms was 16 months. Mean size of calcific materials was 11.4 mm (range, 0–35 mm). Mean value of VAS and ASES scores were 6.5 (range, 1–10) and 47 (range, 8–95), respectively. Of 383 patients (76%), 59 (15%) had rotator cuff tear including 15 full-thickness tears on US or MRI. Patients with rotator cuff tears were significantly associated with older age, recurrent symptoms, menstrual disorders in females, and having undergone calcification removal surgery and rotator cuff repair (all p<0.05). @*Conclusions@#This study reported demographic, radiographic, and clinical features of calcific tendinitis of the shoulder in Korean population, which were not different from those of Western population. Coexisting rotator cuff tear was found with 15% incidence in this large series, suggesting that further radiographic study to evaluate rotator cuff tear might be needed in some calcific tendinitis patients of older age and presenting with recurrent symptoms.

Nanofiber Scaffolds by Electrospinning for Rotator Cuff Tissue Engineering / 전남의대학술지

Rotator cuff tears continue to be at risk of retear or failure to heal after surgical repair, despite the use of various surgical techniques, which stimulate development of novel scaffolding strategies. They should be able to address the known causes of failure after the conventional rotator cuff repair: (1) failure to reproduce the normal tendon healing process, (2) resultant failure to reproduce four zones of the enthesis, and (3) failure to attain sufficient mechanical strength after repair. Nanofiber scaffolds are suited for this application because they can be engineered to mimic the ultrastructure and properties of the native rotator cuff tendon. Among various methods for tissue-engineered nanofibers, electrospinning has recently been highlighted in the rotator cuff field.Electrospinning can create fibrous and porous structures that resemble natural tendon’s extracellular matrix. Other advantages include the ability to create relatively large surface-to-volume ratios, the ability to control fiber size from the micro to the nano scale, and the flexibility of material choices. In this review, we will discuss the anatomical and mechanical features of the rotator cuff tendon, their potential impacts on improper healing after repair, and the current knowledge of the use of electrospinning for rotator cuff tissue engineering.

Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder in the Korean population: demographics and its relation with coexisting rotator cuff tear

Background@#To evaluate the demographics, clinical and radiographic features of calcific tendinitis of the shoulder in the Korean population, specifically focusing on the incidence of coexisting rotator cuff tear. @*Methods@#Between October 2014 and January 2015, we performed a prospective multicenter study with 506 patients from 11 training hospitals in Korea. We collected data of demographics and radiographic analysis based on simple radiographs, clinical assessments based on visual analog scale (VAS) and the American Shoulder Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, and treatment modalities that are used currently. We also evaluated coexisting rotator cuff tear by ultrasonography (US) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images. @*Results@#There were 402 female patients (79%) with mean age of 55 years (range, 31–87 years). Mean duration of symptoms was 16 months. Mean size of calcific materials was 11.4 mm (range, 0–35 mm). Mean value of VAS and ASES scores were 6.5 (range, 1–10) and 47 (range, 8–95), respectively. Of 383 patients (76%), 59 (15%) had rotator cuff tear including 15 full-thickness tears on US or MRI. Patients with rotator cuff tears were significantly associated with older age, recurrent symptoms, menstrual disorders in females, and having undergone calcification removal surgery and rotator cuff repair (all p<0.05). @*Conclusions@#This study reported demographic, radiographic, and clinical features of calcific tendinitis of the shoulder in Korean population, which were not different from those of Western population. Coexisting rotator cuff tear was found with 15% incidence in this large series, suggesting that further radiographic study to evaluate rotator cuff tear might be needed in some calcific tendinitis patients of older age and presenting with recurrent symptoms.

Arthroscopic-assisted Latissimus Dorsi Tendon Transfer for the Management of Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears in Middle-aged Physically Active Patients

BACKGROUND: Latissimus dorsi (LD) tendon transfer is used as a treatment option for massive irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears, and recently, an arthroscopic-assisted technique was introduced. This study was undertaken to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of arthroscopic-assisted LD tendon transfer for the management of irreparable rotator cuff tears in active middle-aged patients. METHODS: The records of five patients (two males) with irreparable tears involving the supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendons managed by arthroscopic-assisted LD tendon transfer were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scale, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon's (ASES) scores, the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) scale, and ranges of motion. Postoperative integrities of transferred tendon were evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging in 4 patients and by ultrasound in one. RESULTS: Mean patient age was 55 years (range, 48–61 years), and mean follow-up period was 20 months (range, 12.0–27.2 months). Mean VAS score significantly improved from 6.6 ± 2.6 preoperatively to 1.8 ± 2.5 postoperatively (p=0.009), mean ASES score increased from 67.6 ± 9.2 to 84.6 ± 15.1, and mean UCLA score from 18.0 ± 1.4 to 28.8 ± 8.5 (all p<0.001). Postoperative imaging of the transferred LD tendon showed intact repair in 4 patients. The remaining patient experienced LD transfer rupture and a poor outcome. CONCLUSIONS: Arthroscopic-assisted LD tendon transfer improved shoulder pain and function in patients with massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears, and may be an option for this condition, especially in physically active patients.

Intraoperative and Postoperative Complications after Arthroscopic Coracoclavicular Stabilization

BACKGROUND: Arthroscopic stabilization of torn coracoclavicular (CC) ligaments gained popularity recently. However, loss of reduction after the operation and complications unique to this technique involving tunnel placement through the distal clavicle and coracoid process are concerns. The purpose of this study was to report intraoperative and early postoperative complications associated with this procedure. METHODS: This study retrospectively evaluated 18 consecutive patients who had undergone arthroscopic stabilization for torn CC ligaments between 2014 and 2015. The indications for surgery were acute or chronic acromioclavicular dislocation and acute fracture of the distal clavicle, associated with CC ligament disruption. Clinical outcomes were evaluated with the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) scores. Intra- and postoperative complications and reoperations were investigated. RESULTS: There were six female and 12 male patients with a mean age of 47 years (range, 22 to 86 years). At a mean follow-up of 17 ± 10 months (range, 10 to 28 months), the mean ASES score was 88.8 ± 19.9 and the mean UCLA score was 30.9 ± 5.2. Intraoperatively, seven complications developed: breach of lateral cortex of the coracoid process in five patients, medial cortex of the coracoid process in one, and anterior cortex of the clavicle in one. Postoperative complications developed in eight patients: four ossifications of the CC interspace, four tunnel widening of the clavicle, one bony erosion on the clavicle, and one superficial infection. A loss of reduction was found in six patients. Reoperation was performed in three patients for loss of reduction in two and superficial infection in the other. CONCLUSIONS: Arthroscopic CC stabilization resulted in high rates of intraoperative and early postoperative complications. Most of them were related to the surgical technique involving bone tunnel placement in the coracoid process and the clavicle.

Proximal Approach of Ultrasound-guided Suprascapular Nerve Block: Comparison with Subacromial Steroid Injection

BACKGROUND@#This study was undertaken to evaluate early clinical outcomes of ultrasound-guided suprascapular nerve block (SSNB) using a proximal approach, as compared with subacromial steroid injection (SA).@*METHODS@#This retrospective study included a consecutive series of 40 patients of SSNB and 20 patients receiving SA, from August 2017 to August 2018. The visual analogue scale (VAS), American Shoulder Elbow Surgeon's score (ASES), University of California, Los Angeles score (UCLA), the 36 health survey questionnaire mental component summary (SF36-MCS), physical component summary (PCS), and range of motion (forward elevation, external rotation, and internal rotation) were assessed for clinical evaluations.@*RESULTS@#Compared with the baseline, VAS, and ranges of motion in the SSNB group significantly improved at the 4-week follow-up (VAS scores improved from 6.7 ± 1.6 to 4.3 ± 2.4, p<0.001; all ranges of motion p<0.05), while other variables showed no statistically significant differences. All clinical variables were significantly improved in the SA group (p<0.05). However, all clinical scores at the 4-week follow-up showed no significant difference between groups.@*CONCLUSIONS@#Ultrasound-guided SSNB using proximal approach provides significant pain relief at 4-weeks after treatment, with statistically significant difference when compared with SA, suggesting that SSNB using proximal approach is a potentially useful option in managing shoulder pain. However, in the current study, it was less effective in improving shoulder function and health-related quality of life, compared with SA.

Clinical Outcome after Arthroscopic Capsular Release for Adhesive Capsulitis of the Shoulder

BACKGROUND: This study was undertaken to evaluate the outcome of the arthroscopic capsular release for adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder. METHODS: This study retrospectively investigated thirty shoulders in 29 patients who presented with recalcitrant adhesive capsulitis and underwent arthroscopic treatments. Other than typical findings of adhesive capsulitis, combined pathologies in the glenohumeral joint and subacromial space were evaluated by arthroscopy. Clinical evaluations were performed using the Constant's score and ranges of motion (ROM) at preoperative, 6 months postoperatively and at the final follow-up. RESULTS: Our study included 17 women and 12 men with a mean age of 53.8 years (range, 34–74). Mean follow-up duration was 24 months (range, 12–40 months). Assessment of combined pathologies revealed that partial rotator cuff tear of less than 25% thickness, was most common (overall 83.3%; with bursal 57% and articular 23%). Subacromial synovitis and adhesion were also frequent (53.3%). The Constant score and ranges of motion significantly improved at the final follow-up, compared with preoperative levels. However, clinical results at 6 months postoperatively were found to be significantly inferior to those observed at the final follow-up (p≤0.001 for all factors). Functional impairment was the major complaint in 59.3% patients at the 6 months follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Although arthroscopic capsular release yielded favorable outcome at the mean 24 months follow-up, pain and motion limitations at 6-month postoperatively persisted in more than 50% of our patients. While combined pathologies were commonly encountered during arthroscopy, although their effects on surgical outcome in adhesive capsulitis remains unclear in this study.

Short Humeral Stems in Shoulder Arthroplasty

Since the introduction of shoulder arthroplasty by Neer in 1974, the design of not only the glenoid component but also the humeral component used in shoulder arthroplasty has continually evolved. Changes to the design of the humeral component include a gradually disappearing proximal fin; diversified surface finishes (such as smooth, grit-blasted, and porous coating); a more contoured stem from the originally straight and cylindrical shape; and the use of press-fit uncemented fixation as opposed to cemented fixation. Despite the evolution of the humeral component for shoulder arthroplasty, however, stem-related complications are not uncommon. Examples of stem-related complications include intraoperative humeral fractures, stem loosening, periprosthetic fractures, and stress shielding. These become much more common in revision arthroplasty, where patients are associated with further complications such as surgical difficulty in extracting the humeral component, proximal metaphyseal bone loss due to stress shielding, intraoperative humeral shaft fractures, and incomplete cement removal. Physicians have made many attempts to reduce these complications by shortening the stem of the humeral component. In this review, we will discuss some of the limitations of long-stem humeral components, the feasibility of replacing them with short-stem humeral components, and the clinical outcomes associated with short-stemmed humeral components in shoulder arthroplasty.

Coracoclavicular Ligament Suture Augmentation with Anatomical Locking Plate Fixation for Distal Clavicle Fracture

BACKGROUND: For Neer type IIB fracture of distal clavicle with coracoclavicular ligament injury, various surgical treatments have been used in literatures. However, there was no consensus on the optimal treatment. The aim of this study is to report the clinical and radiological results of open reduction and internal fixation of unstable distal clavicle fracture and suture augmentation of disrupted coracoclavicular ligament. METHODS: A prospective study was performed in 23 patients with Neer type IIB distal clavicle fracture in Seoul Medical Center, Eulji Hospital, and National Medical Center. Firstly, suture anchors are inserted in the base of coracoid process and preliminary reduction was achieved by tie-off of three suture limbs around the clavicle. Then, the final fixation was completed with anatomical locking plate. Bony union and the distance between coracoclavicular ligaments were evaluated. Clinical results and complications including stiffness and secondary procedures were evaluated. RESULTS: Bony union was achieved in all cases except one (22 of 23). At mean 14.9 months, no significant difference in the mean coracoclavicular distance was observed compared to uninjured shoulder (8.2 +/- 7.9 mm versus 7.3 +/- 3.4 mm, p=0.14). Pain visual analogue scale, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, Constant score, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score were 0.5, 83.4, 78.5, and 6.2, respectively. Revision surgery was performed in one case of nonunion. Four patients who complained of skin irritation underwent implant removal. CONCLUSIONS: In cases of an unstable distal clavicle fracture with coracoclavicular ligament disruption, satisfactory clinical results were obtained by locking plate fixation and coracoclavicular ligament suture augmentation concurrently.

Coracoclavicular Ligament Suture Augmentation with Anatomical Locking Plate Fixation for Distal Clavicle Fracture

BACKGROUND: For Neer type IIB fracture of distal clavicle with coracoclavicular ligament injury, various surgical treatments have been used in literatures. However, there was no consensus on the optimal treatment. The aim of this study is to report the clinical and radiological results of open reduction and internal fixation of unstable distal clavicle fracture and suture augmentation of disrupted coracoclavicular ligament. METHODS: A prospective study was performed in 23 patients with Neer type IIB distal clavicle fracture in Seoul Medical Center, Eulji Hospital, and National Medical Center. Firstly, suture anchors are inserted in the base of coracoid process and preliminary reduction was achieved by tie-off of three suture limbs around the clavicle. Then, the final fixation was completed with anatomical locking plate. Bony union and the distance between coracoclavicular ligaments were evaluated. Clinical results and complications including stiffness and secondary procedures were evaluated. RESULTS: Bony union was achieved in all cases except one (22 of 23). At mean 14.9 months, no significant difference in the mean coracoclavicular distance was observed compared to uninjured shoulder (8.2 +/- 7.9 mm versus 7.3 +/- 3.4 mm, p=0.14). Pain visual analogue scale, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, Constant score, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score were 0.5, 83.4, 78.5, and 6.2, respectively. Revision surgery was performed in one case of nonunion. Four patients who complained of skin irritation underwent implant removal. CONCLUSIONS: In cases of an unstable distal clavicle fracture with coracoclavicular ligament disruption, satisfactory clinical results were obtained by locking plate fixation and coracoclavicular ligament suture augmentation concurrently.

Current Concept of Management of Partial-thickness Rotator Cuff Tear

Most studies on the pathophysiology, natural history, diagnosis by imaging and outcomes after operative or nonoperative treatment of rotator cuff tear have focused on those of full-thickness tears, resulting in limited knowledge of partial-thickness rotator cuff tears. However, a partial-thickness tear of the rotator cuff is a common disorder and can be the cause of persistent pain and dysfunction of the shoulder joint in the affected patients. Recent updates in the literatures shows that the partial-thickness tears are not merely mild form of full-thickness tears. Over the last decades, an improved knowledge of pathophysiology and surgical techniques of partial-thickness tears has led to more understanding of the significance of this tear and better outcomes. In this review, we discuss the current concept of management for partial-thickness tears in terms of the pathogenesis, natural history, nonoperative treatment, and surgical outcomes associated with the commonly used repair techniques.

Hatchet-type Gluteus Maximus Musculocutaneous Flap for Reconstruction of Sacral Pressure Sore

One of the most frequently used flaps for coverage of sacral skin and soft-tissue defects is the gluteus maximus musculocutaneous flap. These authors encountered two cases of sacral pressure sore, for which reconstructive surgery was performed, using the hatchet-shaped gluteus maximus musculocutaneous flap - a modified flap type. We report on our experience in treatment of these two cases, with an excellent outcome.

Current Concept of Management of Partial-thickness Rotator Cuff Tear

Most studies on the pathophysiology, natural history, diagnosis by imaging and outcomes after operative or nonoperative treatment of rotator cuff tear have focused on those of full-thickness tears, resulting in limited knowledge of partial-thickness rotator cuff tears. However, a partial-thickness tear of the rotator cuff is a common disorder and can be the cause of persistent pain and dysfunction of the shoulder joint in the affected patients. Recent updates in the literatures shows that the partial-thickness tears are not merely mild form of full-thickness tears. Over the last decades, an improved knowledge of pathophysiology and surgical techniques of partial-thickness tears has led to more understanding of the significance of this tear and better outcomes. In this review, we discuss the current concept of management for partial-thickness tears in terms of the pathogenesis, natural history, nonoperative treatment, and surgical outcomes associated with the commonly used repair techniques.

Surgical Treatment of Congenital Hallux Varus

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to report outcomes of congenital hallux varus deformity after surgical treatment. METHODS: We evaluated ten feet of eight patients with a congenital hallux varus deformity, including four feet combined with a longitudinal epiphyseal bracket (LEB). There were seven male patients and one female patient with a mean age of 33 months (range, 7 to 103 months) at the time of surgery. Two patients were bilaterally involved. The mean duration of follow-up was 5.9 years (range, 2.3 to 13.8 years). Clinical outcomes were assessed according to the criteria of Phelps and Grogan. Surgical procedures included the Farmer procedure, the McElvenny procedure or an osteotomy at the first metatarsal or proximal phalanx. RESULTS: The clinical results were excellent in two feet, good in six and poor in two feet. The LEB was associated with hallux varus in four feet and were treated by osteotomy alone or in conjunction with soft tissue procedure. CONCLUSIONS: Congenital hallux varus was successfully corrected by surgery with overall favorable outcome. Preoperatively, a LEB should be considered as a possible cause of the deformity in order to prevent recurrent or residual varus after surgery.

Subperiosteal Ganglion Cyst of the Distal Radius: A Case Report

Subperiosteal ganglion is a cyst that develops from periosteum with cortical erosion. There have been several case reports and most common location is the tibia. Only seven cases of subperiosteal ganglion of the upper extremity have been reported. We report a case of subperiosteal ganglion at distal radius without communication of the wrist joint in a 41-year-old woman. Excision of the cyst and adjacent periosteum were performed without evidence of recurrence.