Reverse total shoulder replacement for patients with "weight-bearing" shoulders.

BACKGROUND: Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) has gained popularity in recent years and is indicated for a wide variety of shoulder pathologies. However, use of rTSA in patients with "weight-bearing" shoulders that support wheelchair use or crutches has higher risk. The aim of this study was to assess the results of rTSA in such patients. METHODS: Between 2005 and 2014, 24 patients (30 shoulders) with weight-bearing shoulders were treated with rTSA at our unit. Patients had cuff arthropathy (n=21), rheumatoid arthritis (n=3), osteoarthritis (n=1), acute fracture (n=3), or fracture sequela (n=2). Postoperatively, patients were advised not to push themselves up and out of their wheelchair for 6 weeks. This study was performed in 2016, and 21 patients (27 shoulders) were available for a mean follow-up of 5.6 years (range, 2-10 years). The mean age at surgery was 78 years (range, 54-90 years). RESULTS: Constant-Murley score improved from 9.4 preoperatively to 59.8 at the final follow-up (P=0.001). Pain score improved from 2/15 to 13.8/15 (P=0.001). Patient satisfaction (Subjective Shoulder Value) improved from 0.6/10 to 8.7/10 (P=0.001). Significant improvement in mean range of motion from 46° to 130° of elevation, 14° to 35° of external rotation, and 29° to 78° internal rotation was recorded (P=0.001). Final mean Activities of Daily Living External and Internal Rotation was 32.4/36. Only three patients showed Sirveaux-Nerot grade-1 (10%) glenoid notching and three grade 2 (10%). CONCLUSIONS: rTSA can be used for treatment of patients with weight-bearing shoulders. Such patients reported pain free movement, resumed daily activities, and high satisfaction rates. Level of evidence: IV.

Evaluation of the effectiveness of skin preparation methods for the reduction of Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes) in shoulder surgery: a systematic review.

Background: Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) is the most common pathogen responsible for post-operative shoulder infections. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of skin preparation methods against C. acnes in shoulder surgery. Methods: A systematic review was conducted evaluating the effectiveness of skin preparation methods in the reduction of C. acnes in patients undergoing shoulder surgery. Outcomes were assessed based on the effectiveness of the method used; side effects and cost were also analysed. Results: Of the 19 included studies, 9 evaluated pre-surgical home treatments: 8 assessed benzoyl peroxide (BPO) and 6 concluded it is effective in reducing C. acnes. Nine studies assessed surgical skin preparation and concluded that Chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) was not effective; in contrast hydrogen peroxide reduced C. acnes. Finally, one study evaluated an aseptic protocol using CHG and concluded that it was not effective. Conclusions: It was demonstrated that BPO as home treatment is effective in reducing C. acnes load on skin; it rarely causes side effects and is also cost-effective. This study highlights non-effectiveness of CHG. There was some evidence that the addition of hydrogen peroxide could have a positive effect in the reduction of C. acnes skin load; however, more studies are required.

An algorithmic approach to shoulder pathology.

Introduction: Shoulder pain is a common presentation in both hospitals and the community. Shoulder pain can result from a number of different pathologies and to manage the shoulder pain, an accurate diagnosis is needed. Method: An accurate diagnosis can often be made following a detailed history and examination. Investigations, such as imaging and blood tests may also be required. In this study, we provide an algorithmic approach to shoulder pain that can be used in the clinical setting. Summary: This algorithm can be used in hospitals and the community to help identify and manage the different causes of shoulder pain.

Thirty-day mortality and reliability of Nottingham Hip Fracture Score in patients with COVID19 infection.

In March 2020 Coronavisus-19 pandemic led to significant changes in operations in healthcare in the United Kingdom with national lockdown measures imposed to help protect the vulnerable and prevent transmission. Those deemed vulnerable fall into the cohort of patients at risk of fragility fractures such as fracture neck of femur (NOF). British Orthopaedic Association released guidelines advising that NOF fractures should continue to be treated urgently. AIM: Our unit aimed to identify changes in NOF caseload during the national lockdown and identify if Nottingham Hip Fracture Scores (NHFS) were reliable at predicting 30-day mortality in COVID-19 positive patients. METHODS: A retrospective observational study identifying NOF admissions over a 6-week period in 2020 during lockdown period, where demographics, NHFS, and 30-day mortality rates were compared against the same period in 2019. RESULTS: There was a reduction in NOF admissions by 17.8% (55 vs 67). No significant difference in patient demographics between groups. 30-day mortality rates were not significantly increased in 2020 compared with 2019. COVID-19 positive patients had significantly increased 30-day mortality rates (54%, p = 0.001) compared to COVID-19 negative (9.1%, p = 0.395) and 2019 (6%). DISCUSSION: NHFS was not reliable as a predictor for 30-day mortality in COVID-19 positive patients. Our unit reports increased mortality rates in NOF patients with covid-19 infection. This adds to the building evidence that COVID-19 is an independent predictor for mortality in NOF patients irrespective of NHFS. This should be communicated to patients who are admitted to hospital with NOF and units should continue with efforts to prevent hospital acquired COVID-19 infection.

Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumour of the Forearm Presenting as Foreign Body.

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour (MPNST) is a rare form of soft tissue sarcoma that arises from peripheral nerves, accounting for less than 5% of cases. MPNST most commonly affects trunk and extremities, and It is commonly associated with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) (40%-50%). We present a case of MPNST in a 52-year-old man with history of well-controlled epilepsy. He presented with a painful and erythematous mass in his left forearm, which was initially diagnosed as an abscess secondary to retained foreign bodies. Despite incision and drainage, he experienced recurrence of this mass two months later. Subsequent debridement, biopsy and histology revealed a high-grade MPNST. This prompted a referral to the regional sarcoma unit. Unfortunately, repeat scans demonstrated rapid progression of disease into the anterior forearm compartment and bony invasion. Despite radiotherapy, the tumour metastasised to his lungs. After undergoing palliative chemotherapy, unfortunately, the patient survived only 14 months from the initial presentation. Our study affirms that all resected tissues should be sent for histological confirmation of the suspected diagnosis. When intraoperative findings do not correlate with the initial presentation, the clinician should have a high index of suspicion for potential malignancy. Finally, it is essential that all patients with soft tissue sarcoma should be referred to the specialist regional soft tissue sarcoma service, to be managed by a specialist sarcoma multidisciplinary team according to guidelines.

Treatment of Midshaft Humerus Fractures Using Early Functional Bracing: Results and Prognostic Factors.

Purpose Our study tests the hypothesis that a new radiographic measurement, the fracture displacement index (FDI), is associated with the prediction of successful conservative treatment, and investigates factors, that contribute to failure treatment. Methods This was a retrospective case series reporting the results of pragmatic treatment of midshaft humerus fractures using a humeral brace. Details regarding the patient demographics and fracture pattern were recorded. The outcome was measured as patient satisfaction, return to activities, and need for further treatment at a minimum of one year from the discharge date. Results Of the 33 surviving patients, who met the inclusion criteria, two subgroups were developed. The conservatively treated brace group (n=23, 70%) and the surgical group (n=10, 30%). The median age of brace group patients was 48.3 years, significantly less (p=0.0025) than the surgical (72 years). There were no significant differences in the rest of both group demographics. On the first available x-ray after the brace application, there was a significant difference in FDI (p=0.001) between groups. Residual angulation was significantly better for the surgical group. Skin breakdown was the most common complication, followed by forearm swelling. Stiffness was common in both groups.  Conclusion Patients with FDI near 50 younger than 60 years have better chances to proceed to union if treated with brace less than 24 hours after the injury. Patients with FDI larger than 100, older than 78, have a higher risk of requiring surgery. All patients should be counseled about the risk for skin complications and developing forearm swelling.

COVID-19 - Changes in the presentation and management of shoulder and elbow trauma in a UK district general hospital orthopaedic department.

INTRODUCTION: COVID-19 has had a significant impact on healthcare systems. We aim to quantify the impact of this outbreak on shoulder and elbow trauma in our institution. METHODS: We prospectively collected data on patients presenting to our hospital with shoulder and elbow injuries during COVID-19. This included the number of attendances to the emergency department, fracture clinic, inpatient admissions and operative treatments. This was compared to a pre-COVID-19 period. We also assessed the efficacy of telephone clinics. RESULTS: There has been a noticeable decrease in the number of emergency department and fracture clinic attendances with upper limb complaints. The number of in-person fracture clinic reviews also decreased, with a reciprocal exponential increase in telephone consultations. We recorded a decrease in the number of shoulder and elbow trauma procedures performed. There was a small increase in the proportion of injuries treated conservatively during COVID-19. Our telephone clinics yielded a diagnosis and management plan in many cases and patient perspective appeared favourable. CONCLUSION: We have noted significant change in the upper limb caseload. Certain injuries have reduced, likely due to COVID-19 lockdown. Moreover, we consider several changes to current practices could be taken forward after the pandemic.

Acromioclavicular joint disruptions: A comparison of two surgical approaches 'hook' and 'rope'.

INTRODUCTION: Acromioclavicular joint injuries are common shoulder girdle injuries most commonly resulting from a direct blow to the acromion with the arm adducted. Type-I or type-II acromioclavicular joint injuries can be managed with sling immobilization, early shoulder motion, and physiotherapy. The management of type-III injuries remains controversial and is individualized. Type IV and V injuries should be treated surgically. A myriad of surgical techniques for the management of acromioclavicular joint injuries have been reported. METHODS: We present a comparative study of 76 patients treated with two most common modalities of treatment for AC joint disruption and that is Hook plate stabilisation (n=52) or arthroscopically assisted tight rope stabilisation (n=24). The primary objective was to establish whether hook plate stabilization was superior compared to arthroscopic tight rope fixation in reducing pain and increasing function in the short-term and long-term for patients with AC joint disruptions III-IV. We also wanted to assess how quickly patients returned to their work/job. It was a prospective study, we included all the patients operated between 2008 and 2015 for AC joint disruption by the two shoulder surgeons of our department. All patients followed a strict physiotherapy protocol and were assessed at 6 weeks, 3 months and 12 months. We used the Harm and cost criteria of assessment and the patient specific functional outcome scores. RESULTS: Both modalities of treatment have high patient satisfaction rate, return to work is faster in tight rope group but after a year both group of patients returned to their premorbid state. Removal of hook plate is not mandatory and lysis of acromion is rare (1% in our series). CONCLUSION: Despite the fact that both methods yielded similar results and have statistically similar number of complications, the type of postoperative complications was different between groups. The plate group had more postoperative pain and worse function but both aspects improved after plate removal. The rope group had more complex complications including deep infection and recurrence of deformity and fracture. These differences should be taken into consideration when consenting the patient regarding possible treatment.

The "Purse-string" Technique for Shoulder Stabilization, Description of the Technique, Long term Results and Literature Review.

BACKGROUND: Over the last 2 decades arthroscopic stabilization and Bankart repair has gained popularity due to the advances in materials and surgical techniques. Results of arthroscopic stabilization have been similar to open without the risks of it. The number of anchors used has been suggested to be very important in "spot-weld" arthroscopic stabilization however the "purse-string" technique (PST) can achieve similar results using only one anchor. We describe technique and long term results from using the PST and search the literature for other papers regarding PST. METHODS: Between 2003 and 2013 a total of 193 patients were operated. Patients included those with anterior instability. Using PubMed relevant studies reporting results of PST were identified. RESULTS: Mean follow up was 2 (range 0.5 to 3) years. 9 (4.7%) patients experienced recurrent instability. Almost all patients (97%) returned to their sporting and leisure activities and all professional athletes went back to the same sport. One more UK centre reported 6.1% recurrence in 114 patients at 4 years follow up. These results are similar to the published 11% recurrence of instability after "spot-weld" arthroscopic techniques at 11 years clinical follow-up. CONCLUSION: This study indicates that PST is safe and effective alternative method for the treatment of anterior shoulder instability. In this technique with one anchor simultaneous repair of labrum, creation of an anterior bumper and capsular shift can be achieved. It has the advantage of being cheaper, faster yet efficient with good long term results and leaves space for revision anchors in case of recurrence.

How to Build Your Simple and Cost-effective Arthroscopic Skills Simulator.

Acquisition of arthroscopic skills is not always easy and can be time-consuming. Simulation in arthroscopy improves surgical skills and can bridge the gap between reduced surgical exposure and training time and the need to reach a required level of competency. We propose a method to create a simple and cost-effective arthroscopic skills simulator using readily available materials and a low-cost Web camera available from online shops. This arthroscopic simulation device can be used to improve skills of all levels of trainees at home, in a bioskills laboratory, or in the theater. It can also be used by experienced surgeons to train with instruments and devices before using them for the first time in theaters, thus ensuring safe use and improving patient safety. Further validation as a training tool is needed and should be the focus of additional research, but early results are very promising.

Delayed recognition of pediatric calcaneal osteomyelitis: a case report.

INTRODUCTION: The diagnosis of calcaneal osteomyelitis is a challenge, and diagnostic delays have been reported in the literature. The progression is often indolent, laboratory results commonly fail to reveal an underlying infectious process and radiographs changes are seen after 7 days. We discuss the literature on the diagnosis and treatment of calcaneal osteomyelitis which can result in long-term sequelae in the pediatric patient. CASE PRESENTATION: A 9-year-old white boy presented to our institution with heel pain and an inability to weight bear. There was a 10-day delay in diagnosis of calcaneal osteomyelitis, with a total of three presentations to our emergency department. The condition was misdiagnosed as Sever's disease on two separate occasions with discharge home. On his third presentation the diagnosis was finally clinched when he developed more definitive signs and symptoms, with pyrexia and signs of lymphangitis. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed diffuse osteomyelitis of his calcaneum. He underwent surgery and 2 weeks of antibiotics administered intravenously, followed by 4 weeks of oral therapy. We are happy to report a good recovery without any complications at his 12-month follow up. CONCLUSIONS: Physicians should include calcaneal osteomyelitis as a differential in any child presenting with heel pain. Delays in the diagnosis can result in disastrous complications in the pediatric patient, such as growth arrest.

Bone printing: new frontiers in the treatment of bone defects.

Bone defects can be congenital or acquired resulting from trauma, infection, neoplasm and failed arthroplasty. The osseous reconstruction of these defects is challenging. Unfortunately, none of the current techniques for the repair of bone defects has proven to be fully satisfactory. Bone tissue engineering (BTE) is the field of regenerative medicine (RM) that focuses on alternative treatment options for bone defects that will ideally address all the issues of the traditional techniques in treating large bone defects. However, current techniques of BTE is laborious and have their own shortcomings. More recently, 2D and 3D bone printing has been introduced to overcome most of the limitations of bone grafts and BTE. So far, results are extremely promising, setting new frontiers in the management of bone defects.

Trevor's Disease: A Literature Review regarding Classification, Treatment, and Prognosis apropos of a Case.

Background. Dysplasia epiphysealis hemimelica (DEH) is rare and its main characteristic is osteochondromas of the epiphysis of long bones. Methods. We report a case of DEH of the ankle in an 8-year-old boy that was resected in 2005. Additionally we collect all the reported cases of DEH. The literature is reviewed regarding the treatment, prognosis, long term function, and patterns and areas affected by DEH. Results. In our case no complications were noted and our patient remains asymptomatic. Reviewing the literature we found that 73 authors have reported 144 cases from 1926 to 2013. We propose and describe a new classification that correlates with prognosis. According to our classification DEH is classified as types 1 with single lower limb involvement, 2 with multiple lower limb, 3 with single upper limb, 4 with multiple upper limb, 5 with upper and lower limb, and 6 with spine. Conclusions. All single lesions should be followed up and if indicated a whole body nuclear bone scan can be useful in identifying the existence of multiple affected joints. Type 1 lesions have better prognosis than 2 and have less chances of developing OA even if not resected. Resection, even if partial, can be a successful treatment for DEH.

Does the CT improve inter- and intra-observer agreement for the AO, Fernandez and Universal classification systems for distal radius fractures?

INTRODUCTION: Distal radius fractures are very common upper limb injuries irrespective of the patient's age. The aim of our study is to evaluate the reliability of the three systems that are often used for their classification (AO - Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen/Association for the Study of Internal Fixation, Fernandez and Universal) and to assess the need for computed tomography (CT) scan to improve inter- and intra-observer agreement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Five orthopaedic surgeons and two hand surgeons classified radiographs and CT scans of 26 patients using the Fernandez, AO and Universal systems. All data were recorded using MS Excel and Kappa statistics were performed to determine inter- and intra-observer agreement and to evaluate the role of CT scan. RESULTS: Fair-to-moderate inter-observer agreement was noted with the use of X-rays for all classification systems. Intra-observer reproducibility did not improve with the addition of CT scans, especially for the senior hand surgeons. CONCLUSIONS: The agreement rates observed in the present study show that currently there is no classification system that is fully reproducible. Adequate experience is required for the assessment and treatment of these injuries. CT scan should be requested only by experienced hand surgeons in order to help guide treatment, as it does not significantly improve inter- and intra-observer agreement for all classification systems.

Plate on plate osteosynthesis for the treatment of nonhealed periplate fractures.

Purpose. The purpose of this paper is to present our technique for the treatment of periplate fractures. Methods. From 2009 to 2012 we treated three patients. In all cases the existing plate was left and the new one placed over the existing. Locking screws were placed through both plates. The other screws in the new plate were used as best suited the fracture. Results. In all cases less than 6 months had passed between fractures. None of the original fractures had healed. Mean followup was 2 years. All fractures proceeded to union within 7 months. No complications were recorded. All the patients returned to their normal activities and were satisfied with the results of their treatment. Conclusion. Our plate on plate technique is effective for the treatment of periplate fractures. A solid fusion can be achieved at the new fracture site without disturbing the previous fixation.