Intra- and inter-observer agreement in MRI assessment of rotator cuff healing using the Sugaya classification 10years after surgery.

BACKGROUND: The long-term outcomes of rotator cuff repair are unclear. Recurrent tears are common, although their reported frequency varies depending on the type and interpretation challenges of the imaging method used. The primary objective of this study was to assess the intra- and inter-observer reproducibility of the MRI assessment of rotator cuff repair using the Sugaya classification 10years after surgery. The secondary objective was to determine whether poor reproducibility, if found, could be improved by using a simplified yet clinically relevant classification. HYPOTHESIS: Our hypothesis was that reproducibility was limited but could be improved by simplifying the classification. MATERIAL AND METHOD: In a retrospective study, we assessed intra- and inter-observer agreement in interpreting 49 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans performed 10years after rotator cuff repair. These 49 scans were taken at random among 609 cases that underwent re-evaluation, with imaging, for the 2015 SoFCOT symposium on 10-year and 20-year clinical and anatomical outcomes of rotator cuff repair for full-thickness tears. Each of three observers read each of the 49 scans on two separate occasions. At each reading, they assessed the supra-spinatus tendon according to the Sugaya classification in five types. RESULTS: Intra-observer agreement for the Sugaya type was substantial (κ=0.64) but inter-observer agreement was only fair (κ=0.39). Agreement improved when the five Sugaya types were collapsed into two categories (1-2-3 and 4-5) (intra-observer κ=0.74 and inter-observer κ=0.68). CONCLUSION: Using the Sugaya classification to assess post-operative rotator cuff healing was associated with substantial intra-observer and fair inter-observer agreement. A simpler classification into two categories improved agreement while remaining clinically relevant. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II, prospective randomised low-power study.

Pelvic, acetabular and hip fractures: What the surgeon should expect from the radiologist.

Pelvic ring fractures when caused by trauma, either violent or in demineralized bone, generally consist of injuries in both the anterior (pubic symphysis and rami) and posterior (iliac wing, sacrum, sacroiliac joint) portions. Injury classifications are based on injury mechanism and pelvic stability, and are used to determine treatment. Acetabular fractures, associated or not to pelvic ring disruption, are classified on the basis of fracture line, into elementary fractures of the acetabular walls, columns and roof, and into complex fractures. Fractures of the proximal end of the femur occur often on demineralized bone following low-energy trauma. The fractures are categorized by anatomic location (neck, trochanter and subtrochanteric region) and degree of displacement. These variables determine the risk of osteonecrosis of the femoral head, which is the main complication of such fractures.

Sentinel lesions in osteoarticular traumatology: signs to watch out for.

Sentinel lesions are lesions of the bone or soft tissue, visible in standard X-rays carried out within a traumatic context, indicating bone or more severe capsular ligament lesions not visible on these X-rays. A detailed review of the peripheral joints as well as the spine is carried out with an example of each type of lesion in a standard X-ray. Confrontation with the reference examination, CT or MRI, depending on the case, is then carried out.

Pitfalls in osteoarticular imaging: how to distinguish bone infection from tumour?

In this article examining pitfalls in osteoarticular imaging we examine the differential diagnosis of osteomyelitis from bone tumours. We describe the different features which differentiate these two types of disease in radiology and CT and MRI scanning.

Scaphotrapezial ligament: normal arthro-CT and arthro-MRI appearance with anatomical and clinical correlation.

The purpose of our study was to demonstrate and describe the MR and arthro-CT anatomic appearance of the scaphotrapezial ligament and illustrate some of the pathologies involving this structure. This ligament consists of two slips that originate from the radiopalmar aspect of the scaphoid tuberosity and extend distally, forming a V shape. The ulnar fibers, which are just radial to the flexor carpi radialis sheath, inserted along the trapezial ridge. The radial fibers were found to be thinner and inserted at the radial aspect of the trapezium. Twelve fresh cadaver wrists were dissected, with close attention paid to the scaphotrapezio-trapezoidal (STT) joint. An osseoligamentous specimen was dissected with removal of all musculotendinous structures around the STT joint and was performed with high-resolution acquisition in a 128-MDCT scanner. Samples of the wrist area were collected from two fetal specimens. A retrospective study of 55 patients with wrist pain that were submitted to arthrography, arthro-CT, and arthro-MRI imaging was performed (10 patients on a 3-T superconducting magnet and 45 patients on a 1.5-T system). Another ten patients had high-resolution images on a 3-T superconducting magnet without arthrographic injection. MR arthrography and arthro-CT improved visualization and provided detailed information about the anatomy of the scaphotrapezial ligament. Knowledge of the appearance of this normal ligament on MRI allows accurate diagnosis of lesions and will aid when surgery is indicated or may have a role in avoiding unnecessary immobilization.

Survivor of a traumatic atlanto-occipital dislocation.

Atlanto-occipital dislocation is a devastating ligamentous injury that most often turns fatal. However, because of on-site resuscitation improvements, the emergency teams are increasingly dealing with this condition. We report a rare case of atlanto-occipital dislocation (AOD) in a surviving patient with more than one-year follow-up. The mechanism of injury appears to be an extreme hyperextension applied to the head. This injury occurs more frequently in children since they are anatomically predisposed (flat articulation between the occiput and the atlas, increased ligamentous laxity). The diagnosis should be suggested by severe neurological injury after high trauma but also post-traumatic cardiorespiratory deficit. There have been reports of atlanto-occipital dilocations without neurologic impairment. A radiographic examination must be performed and lateral cervical radiographs should be acquired. However, additional imaging with CT or MRI may be required to aid diagnosis of AOD in cases in which radiographic findings are equivocal. Once the diagnosis of AOD has been confirmed, an anatomical classification should be made according to the magnitude of displacement. Fatal lesions are of neurological and vascular origin and some authors advocate the systematic use of angiography. Consensus regarding the management of AOD in adults has been achieved. Occipito-cervical arthrodesis is the recommended treatment option. We advocate a two-stage surgery: the patient is initially fitted with a halo vest then occipitocervical fusion is performed. Surgical treatment should be combined with cardiorespiratory management. The emergency teams should get familiar with this injury since they will be increasingly confronted to it. Early recognition and standard appropriate management is essential to avoid delayed treatment and complications.

[Imaging work-up for recent spinal trauma]. / Le bilan d'imagerie dans les traumatismes récents du rachis.

We focus on the current role of the different imaging techniques used for the work-up of recent spinal trauma. We detail the different imaging modalities and discuss their respective strengths and weaknesses. We summarize the scope of lesions involved, including bony, ligamentous, vascular and nervous injuries. The review ends with proposed diagnostic strategies based on these different elements.

[Imaging of traumatic injuries of the hip]. / Imagerie des traumatismes de la hanche.

Traumatic injuries of the hip, mostly fractures of the proximal femur, are in constant progression. Though morbidity has decreased due to improved surgical and anesthesiologic techniques and postsurgical rehabilitation, mortality from hip fractures remains significant. Radiographs of the hip remain helpful, but MDCT and MRI have become indispensable tools. Findings on imaging studies must be well characterized to ensure rapid and cost-effective management. Difficult or cases with imaging features that are difficult to interpret or misleading will be presented to avoid incorrect interpretations that could lead to inadequate management of patients.

[How to read radiography of the traumatic spine?]. / Comment interpréter les radiographies du rachis traumatique en urgence?

In this paper, the imaging features of traumatic injuries of the spine in an emergency department will be reviewed. Three themes are discussed. 1) Review of current indications for additional imaging work-up. Conventional radiographs are not always mandatory, especially at the cervical level since validated criteria are available from the literature. The low sensitivity of conventional radiographs often requires additional imaging by CT (bone lesions) or MRI (disk and ligamentous lesions). The degree of urgency in scheduling these different examinations will be defined by the clinical setting and risk level (low/intermediate/high) of the injury. 2) Review of imaging features associated with stable and unstable lesions. The analysis of conventional radiographs is based on biomechanical concepts. The features of the main lesions will be illustrated by clinical cases and diagrams. 3) Review of key points that must urgently be transmitted to clinicians. The preliminary radiology report is an essential document for the management of patients with traumatic injury to the spine. It will have an impact on the type of immediate management (medical, orthopedic or surgical). A final report validating the initial interpretation should, of course, soon follow.

New findings on intermetacarpal fat pads: anatomy and imaging.

Many studies have focused on the functional importance of the gliding structures of the hand. These structures are clinically important in reconstructive surgery and mechanically essential for an efficient hand grasp. The aims of this study were to first review the intermetacarpal space and then focus on its fatty tissue, the intermetacarpal fat pad. This study used dissections and histological analysis of fetal and adult hands and CT scans of adult hands. The intermetacarpal fat pads are well-defined adipose structures located between the heads of the second, third, fourth and fifth metacarpal bones. They are located in spaces defined by the palmar fascia and its deep expansions. These spaces are closed distally but open proximally into the tunnels surrounding the flexor tendons (Legueu and Juvara canals). The pads are composed of non-mobilizable fat; they protect the neurovascular pedicles of the fingers. They may act with the palmar skin to mitigate compressive and shear forces during gripping. Finally they may be involved in neurological symptoms if their size is increased by any trauma or inflammatory process.

[Computed tomographic analysis of humeral retrotorsion and glenoid retroversion]. / Analyse tomodensitométrique de la rétrotorsion humérale et de la rétroversion glénoïdienne.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Analysis of the anatomic relations of the humeral head and the glenoid cavity is particularly important for clinical study of shoulder arthroplasty and glenohumeral instability. Analysis of humeral retroversion and glenoid retroversion is quite difficult and data in the literature are scarse. We conducted a computed tomography (CT) analysis of stable shoulders to detail retroversion of the entire height of the glenoid cavity and to measure humeral retrotorsion using two comparative methods. We also compared glenoid retroversion and humeral retrotorsion observed in individual subjects. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This prospective study used a standardized CT analysis method. Both shoulders of 30 persons free of glenohumeral instability were studied. Two methods, described by Dähnert and Bernageau, were used to analyze humeral retrotorsion. The Benageau method was used to analyze glenoid retroversion. RESULTS: According to the Dähnert method, humeral retrotorsion was 10 degrees +/- 13 degrees; it was 24 degrees +/- 13 degrees with the Bernageau method; data dispersion was 60 degrees and 65 degrees respectively. According to the Dähnert method, retrotorsion was more pronounced on the dominant side compared with the non-dominant side. There was a significant correlation between retrotorsion values for the two sides. For 95% of the shoulders, glenoid retorversion decreased progressively from the superior part of the glenoid cavity (12.8 degrees +/- 6.4 degrees ) to the lower part (3.1 degrees +/- 4.4 degrees ). Glenoid retroversion was greater on the dominant side. For 21 of the 30 persons (70%), there was a significant correlation between retroversion for the two sides. Correlation coefficients between glenoid retroversion and humeral retrotorsion were negative. Greater humeral retrotorsion was thus related with less pronounced glenoid retroversion and vice versa. DISCUSSION: This study allowed quantification of glenoid retroversion and humeral retrotorsion. There is a spiral twist in the joint surface of the glenoid cavity with progressive decrease in glenoid retorversion from the upper to the lower part of the cavity for 95% of the shoulders. To our knowledge, this spiral twist in the glenoid cavity is not taken into consideration in any of the currently available implants. The correlation for both parameters between the right and left side is probably determined genetically. The influence of dominance could be explained by adaptation to more or less pronounced stress. The negative correlation between humeral retrotorsion and glenoid retroversion would improve glenohumeral stability. A comparative study with unstable shoulders would be required to verify this hypothesis. The validity of the Dähnert method for assessing humeral retorversion is, in our opinion, insufficiently established. The Bernageau method, which provides a direct measurement, appears to be preferable despite the difficulty in identifying anatomic landmarks.

[Traumatic bilateral rotatory C1-C2 dislocation in an adult: case report and review of the literature]. / Luxation rotatoire bilatérale traumatique C1-C2 de l'adulte: une observation et revue de la littérature.

Trauma led to bilateral rotatory atlantoaxial dislocation in a 23-year-old woman. Clinical diagnosis of this uncommon dislocation of the cervical spin is generally difficult and often made late. Typical signs include pain in the upper cervical spine and a fixed rotated position of the head. Integrity of the transverse ligament of the atlas is a determining factor for atlantoaxial stability and allows orthopedic treatment after reduction using moderate traction on the head. As for most authors, orthopedic was successful in our patient who totally recovered cervical spine mobility without pain.

Pressure overload induces heterologous expression of the atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) gene.

Several investigations have demonstrated the regional heterogeneity of myocardial phenotype, and hypertrophy may also induce regionally disparate changes. We have utilized the direct DNA injection technique to study regional variations in overload-induced ANF expression. Pressure overload was induced by stenosis of the ascending aorta in canines. ANF promoter reporters were injected into the left ventricle; in different regions including the base, the midwall region, and the apex. Injections were made at different depths to include the epicardial and endocardial layers. The animals were sacrificed 7 days following surgery and the left ventricle harvested for tissue analysis. Under normotensive conditions, ANF reporter expression was similar throughout the heart. PO increased ANF expression and the increases were greater in the endocardium than in the epicardium. PO also significantly increased expression in the midwall and base regions, but not in the apex. It is unknown from these experiments, whether the greater increases in midwall expression are a function of greater wall stress, metabolic demand, or phenotypic differences in the midwall myocytes. These findings do indicate that regional differences in overload-induced changes in gene expression are evident and may be functionally important in determining myocardial response to increased functional demand.

[Role of standard radiography and computed tomography in the assessment of shoulder instability: decision-making value in surgical planning. (Radio-anatomic study of 51 unstable shoulders)]. / Place de la radiographie standard et de l'arthroscanner dans le bilan préopératoire des instabilités d'épaule: valeur décisionnelle dans l'approche chirurgicale. (Etude radio-anatomique sur 51 épaules instables).

The therapeutic algorythm for shoulder instability, either arthroscopically, either surgically, should focus on clinical data as well as imaging ones. The latter involve standard X-rays and arthrotomodensitometry (AOTDM). Both of these are crucial for the surgical approach. This paper emphasizes their limits and places. We analysed anatomical and imaging data of 51 unstable shoulders operated on between January 1998 and February 2000. Our purpose was to determine the sensitivity and specificity of imaging techniques for each anatomical structure playing a role in the management. Standard X-rays include comparative AP and Bernageau's views. Based on our results, their efficiency is confirmed for the therapeutic approach of bony lesions. Their sensitivity was respectively 96% and 93% for the reconnaissance of Hill-Sachs lesions and lesions of the anterior glenoïd rim. The sensitivity of AOTDM in identifying labral desinsertions was 91% but their extent was not precisely documented likewise for the labral degeneration and absence. The sensitivity was respectively 69% and 71%. Results were poor for the evaluation of the anterior ligament complex. TDM could not accurately document 90% soft tissues lesions which carry a poor prognosis for arthroscopic reconstructive procedures. There is a good correlation between the aspect of anterior capsular attachment and the sprain lesions (P = 0.003). We could conclude that the AOTDM is not determinant factor for choice of the reconstructive procedure, either arthroscopically, either surgically.

[Diagnostic imaging of the brachial plexus and the cericothoracobrachial outlet]. / Imagerie du plexus brachial et du défilé cervico-thoracobrachial.

Imaging of the brachial plexus and of the thoracic outlet syndrome is difficult due to the complex path of the brachial plexus and the morphological variations during the movements. This imaging includes simple radiographs, computed tomographies (CT) and myelo CT scan, magnetic resonance imaging and echo-Doppler. Pathologies of this area include congenital deformities (dysplasia of the upper RIB or of the clavicle), non-malignant or malignant tumors, muscular pathologies, and pathologies of the nerve roots or trunks.

[Head and brain injuries. Place of imaging]. / Traumatismes cranioencéphaliques. Place de l'imagerie.

This article considers the various mechanisms of brain injury and specifies the most efficient radiologic technique for assessing patients, depending on clinical presentation. The brain injuries include either extracerebral and intracerebral lesions. The former require rapid diagnosis and therapy and the latter determine management in an intensive therapy, unit and outcome. Standard X-rays are obsolete. The CT, rapidly performed, is the most relevant imaging procedure for surgical lesions. Cortical contusions and diffuse axonal injuries are underestimated by CT and best depicted by MRI. Only late MRI has a strong correlation with neuropsychological outcome. In terms of prognosis, MRI needs to be evaluated. The indications include: a) unstable neurological status: CT; b) moderate head injury: CT may help to decide hospital admission; c) severe head injury: initial CT may be followed by MRI; d) long-term consequences: MRI. Special Indications: a) angio-MRI: suspicion of vascular lesion; b) CT with thin slices and bone window: depressed skull fracture; c) teleradiology (image transfer): to decide a patient transport from a peripheral hospital to a neurosurgical centre. In conclusion, CT remains the first-line examination to detect immediately life-threatening lesions. MRI is the examination of choice for full assessment of brain lesions.

[A case of a aggressive giant-cell tumor with multiple bone metastases]. / A propos d'un cas de tumeur à cellules géantes d'évolution rapide avec métastases osseuses multiples.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Giant-cell tumor are known for local recurrence. Metastases are rare (2 p. 100), and generally located in the lung. We present a case with multiple bone metastases and rapid course. MATERIAL, METHODS AND RESULTS: A 45-year-old man presented a 5 cm giant-cell tumor of his right distal tibia and two other localisation in the fifth and sixth cervical vertebral bodies. He underwent a resection of the distal tibia and reconstruction with a controlateral free vascularized fibula. The bodies of the fifth and sixth cervical vertebral were resected and replaced by an iliac crest graft. Other localisations appeared in iliac right crest, in the posterior wall of the cotyle and in the second, third and fourth cervical vertebral bodies. Chemotherapy was administered and clinical signs regressed but eight months later the patient presented a recurrence of his tumor in the distal tibia with new localisation in the left fifth rib, in the right clavicle, in the frontal bone, in right ischio-pubal branch and in the right proximal femur. A new chemotherapy was performed but had little effect and probably hasved dubic death 13 month after the first symptom. DISCUSSION: The present observation is characterised by the large number of localisations (13; the highest number found in the literature was 11 localisations) and by the rapidity of the clinical course. Low grade giant-cell tumors generally give benign metastase with a course lasting several years. The chemotherapy helpt us to slow the progression of the lesions but was unable to prevent the development of new localisation and the recurrence in the distal tibia. More over, its toxicity could have caused the death of the patient. CONCLUSION: We present the case of one patient who presented a giant-cell tumor with unusual presentation: multiple bony metastases with rapidly fatal outcome.

[Massive gas embolism following lung inflation for thoracic tomodensitometry in a multiple trauma patient with lung contusions]. / Embolie gazeuse massive lors d'une insufflation pulmonaire en vue d'une tomodensitométrie thoracique chez un polytraumatisé atteint de contusions pulmonaires.

We report a case of gas embolism into both right and left circulation in a polytrauma patient with lung contusions, revealed by thoracic CT scan showing the heart and aorta filled with gas. It followed a lung inflation with a O2/N2O mixture for about 30 seconds at a pressure of at least 40 cmH2O in order to obtain apnoea for CT scan and to recruit atelectatic territories. The presumed mechanism was the passage of the O2/N2O mixture during the lung inflation manoeuvre out of disrupted airways into torn pulmonary blood vessels and pushed back into the heart chambers. The patient recovered fully. Lung inflation manoeuvre to obtain a prolonged apnoea during CT scan examinations of thorax is contraindicated in case of thorax trauma, as it carries a risk of gas embolism.