Point of care testing for the diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infections: a review.

BACKGROUND: Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) remains a major complication following total joint arthroplasties (TJA), significantly affecting patient outcomes and healthcare costs. Despite advances in diagnostic techniques, challenges persist in accurately diagnosing PJI, underscoring the need for effective point-of-care testing (POCT). METHODS: This review examines the current literature and latest developments in POCT for diagnosing PJI, focusing on biomarkers such as alpha-defensin, leukocyte esterase, calprotectin, and C-reactive protein (CRP). Criteria from various societies like the Musculoskeletal Infection Society, Infectious Diseases Society of America, and the International Consensus Meeting were compared to evaluate the effectiveness of these biomarkers in a point-of-care setting. RESULTS: POCT provides rapid results essential for the timely management of PJI, with alpha-defensin and leukocyte esterase showing high specificity and sensitivity. Recent advancements have introduced novel biomarkers like calprotectin, which demonstrate high diagnostic accuracy. However, challenges such as the variability in test performance and the need for validation under different clinical scenarios remain. DISCUSSION: While POCT for PJI shows promising results, their integration into clinical practice requires standardized protocols and further validation. The evolution of these diagnostic tools offers a potential shift toward more personalized and immediate care, potentially improving outcomes for patients undergoing TJA.

Success Rate After 2-Stage Spacer-Free Total Hip Arthroplasty Exchange and Risk Factors for Reinfection: A Prospective Cohort Study of 187 Patients.

BACKGROUND: Two-stage prosthesis exchange is the treatment of choice for chronic periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) of a total hip arthroplasty (THA), especially when the bone and surrounding soft tissues are compromised or difficult-to-treat pathogens are implicated. The aims of our study were as follows: (1) to determine the outcome of 2-stage prosthesis exchange for the treatment of PJI after THA and (2) to determine the risk factors for reinfection leading to subsequent revision surgeries after reimplantation. METHODS: We prospectively enrolled 187 consecutive patients who underwent a 2-stage THA exchange with resection arthroplasty for PJI from 2013 to 2019. The mean (± SD) duration of follow-up was 54.2 ± 24.9 months (range, 36 to 96), and the mean interval until reimplantation was 9.8 ± 8.9 weeks (range, 2 to 38). All patients remained in a spacer-free girdlestone situation between the 2 stages of treatment. Patients who remained infection-free after their 2-stage treatment were considered to have achieved treatment success. RESULTS: The overall success rate was 85.6%. The cumulative probability of reinfection was 11.5% after one year and 14% after 2 years after reimplantation. High virulence or difficult-to-treat pathogens were significant and independent risk factors for reinfection (HR [hazard ratio] = 3.71, 95% CI [confidence interval]: 1.47 to 9.36, P = .006 and HR = 3.85, 95% CI: 1.73 to 8.57, respectively, P = .001), as was previous 2-stage hip prosthesis exchange (HR = 3.58, 95% CI: 1.33 to 9.62, P = .01). Overall reoperation and revision rates were 26.2 and 16.6%, respectively. Re-infected patients had an 80% higher probability of reoperation than noninfected ones (P < .001, log-rank = 102.6), and they were 55% more likely to undergo revision surgery during their follow-up (P < .001, log-rank = 55.4). CONCLUSIONS: Reinfection rates after 2-stage spacer-free THA revision for PJI still remain high but are comparable to those including cement spacers. Patients who have had prior failed 2-stage implant exchanges or are infected by high-grade or difficult-to-treat pathogens are at high risk for treatment failure.

Risk factors for peri-megaprosthetic joint infections in tumor surgery: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Peri-megaprosthetic joint infections (PJI) in tumor surgery are complex and challenging complications that significantly impact the outcomes of the patients. The occurrence of PJI poses a substantial threat to the success of these operations. This review aims to identify and summarize the risk factors associated with PJI in tumor surgery with megaprosthetic reconstruction as well as to determine the overall risk of PJI in limb salvage surgery. METHODS: A thorough examination of published literature, scrutinizing the incidence of PJI in tumor prostheses after limb salvage surgery was done. Research studies that documented the incidence of PJI in tumor patients who underwent limb salvage surgery, and explored the risk factors associated with the occurrence of PJI were deemed eligible. RESULTS: A total of 15 studies were included in the analysis and underwent comprehensive examination. After the exploration of key parameters, several significant risk factors for PJI concerning the type of implant coating, surgical site characteristics, patient demographics, and procedural factors were recorded. DISCUSSION: The findings underscore the need for a nuanced approach in managing tumor patients undergoing limb salvage surgery and megaprosthetic reconstruction, with emphasis on individualized risk assessments and individualized preventive strategies.

Arthroscopic Suprapectoral Biceps Tenodesis for Isolated Biceps Tendinopathy: Results From 23 Patients.

INTRODUCTION: Pathology affecting the long head of the biceps tendon (LHB) is a common cause of shoulder pain. When conservative treatment fails to resolve symptoms, surgical treatment is the modality of choice. The literature describes many arthroscopic and open techniques using different implants. However, no consensus exists on which procedure yields the greatest improvement. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of arthroscopic suprapectoral biceps tenodesis for treating isolated LHB pathology. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We present a case series of 23 patients with isolated LHB pathology who were treated with arthroscopic suprapectoral tenodesis between 2016 and 2022. All surgeries were performed by the same senior surgeon, and patients were assessed preoperatively and one year after the procedure, using the simple shoulder test (SST), Constant score (CS), and visual analog scale (VAS) by the senior surgeon. Statistical analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank test, with significance defined as p < 0.05. RESULTS: The CS improved from 68.52 (SD = 1.59) to 98 (SD = 7.1; p < 0.001), the SST improved from 8.78 (SD = 0.998) to 11.21 (SD = 0.42; p < 0.001), and the VAS improved from 8.26 (SD = 0.54) to 0 (SD = 0; p < 0.001) at one-year follow-up. No complications were reported postoperatively or during the follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS: Arthroscopic suprapectoral biceps tenodesis significantly improved outcomes at one-year follow-up and can be considered an effective and safe choice when treating LHB pathology.

Limb Salvage and Pelvic Reconstruction With Endoprosthesis After Pelvic Tumor Resection: A Narrative Review.

Periacetabular defects following tumor resection present formidable challenges in reconstruction and continue to pose clinical difficulties. Historically, treatment approaches leaned towards hindquarter amputation; however, due to associated morbidities and functional limitations, limb-sparing procedures gained prominence in the 1980s. Nevertheless, the intricacies of pelvic anatomy and the imperative of achieving wide surgical margins while preserving essential structures make pelvic tumor resection and subsequent reconstruction inherently complex. Various reconstruction modalities have been explored, including non-vascularized fibular grafts and prosthetic implants. Among these options, the LUMiC® endoprosthesis stands out as a promising solution for pelvic reconstruction post-tumor resection. Characterized by a modular design featuring a hydroxyapatite-coated stem and acetabular cup, this device has shown favorable implant survival rates in studies, despite encountering complications primarily associated with soft tissue failure, dislocation, and infection. Notably, the incidence of complications varies across studies. The Henderson classification system delineates these complications, encompassing soft tissue issues, aseptic loosening, periprosthetic fractures, infections, and tumor recurrence. Despite the encouraging functional outcomes associated with the LUMiC® endoprosthesis, it is not immune to limitations. Concerns persist regarding complications such as dislocation and infection, underscoring the imperative for further research to evaluate the long-term durability and reliability of this reconstructive approach. Moreover, advancements in surgical techniques, perioperative management, and the advent of navigation-assisted procedures hold promise for enhancing outcomes and mitigating complication rates in pelvic reconstruction surgeries.

Clinical Outcome after Surgical Treatment of Sacral Chordomas: A Single-Center Retrospective Cohort of 27 Patients.

Introduction: The aims of our study were (1) to determine disease-specific and disease-free survival after the en-bloc resection of sacral chordomas and (2) to investigate potential risk factors for tumor recurrence and major postoperative wound-related complications. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 27 consecutive patients with sacral chordomas who were surgically treated in our institution between 2004 and 2022. Three patients (11.1%) had a recurrent tumor and four patients (14.8%) had history of a second primary solid tumor prior to or after their sacral chordoma. A combined anterior and posterior approach, colostomy, plastic reconstruction, and spinopelvic instrumentation were necessitated in 51.9%, 29.6%, 37%, and 7.4% of cases, respectively. The mean duration of follow-up was 58 ± 41 months (range= 12-170). Death-related-to-disease, disease recurrence, and major surgical site complications were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, and investigation of the respective risk factors was performed with Cox hazard regression. Results: The estimated 5-year and 10-year disease-specific survival was 75.3% (95% CI = 49.1-87.5%) and 52.7% (95% CI = 31-73.8%), respectively. The estimated 1-year, 5-year, and 10-year disease-free survival regarding local and distant disease recurrence was 80.4% (95% CI = 60.9-91.1%), 53.9% (95% CI = 24.6-66.3%), and 38.5% (95% CI = 16.3-56.2%), respectively. The mean survival of the recurred patients was 61.7 ± 33.4 months after their tumor resection surgery. Conclusions: Despite the high relapse rates and perioperative morbidity, long-term patient survival is not severely impaired. Positive or less than 2 mm negative resection margins have a significant association with disease progression.

Is Regional Bone Mineral Density the Differentiating Factor Between Femoral Neck and Femoral Trochanteric Fractures?

Background Osteoporosis is globally recognized as a prevalent bone disease, and proximal femoral fractures constitute a serious complication associated with it. In recent years, the frequency of hip fractures has increased rapidly, with ramifications that extend into the social and economic aspects of both patients' lives and healthcare systems. The primary goal of this study is to discover whether bone mineral density (BMD) in specific regions of the hip could be related to femoral neck or trochanteric fractures. Methodology This prospective cohort study employed dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) measurements on 70 individuals with proximal femoral fractures. The participants sought treatment at the emergency department of our unit for hip fractures and adhered to our predefined eligibility criteria. These criteria primarily included (i) age exceeding 60 years and (ii) a diagnosis of either femoral neck or trochanteric fracture attributed to (iii) a low-energy lateral fall and (iv) a previously established state of complete ambulation before the occurrence of the fracture. In this context, we recorded the BMD of the hip, as well as the BMD values of the upper and lower halves of the neck, trochanteric region, and diaphysis. For the comparison of the categorical variables, Pearson's χ2 criterion was used, whereas Student's t-test was applied for the comparison of means of quantitative variables across fracture types. Results No statistical differences were identified when comparing regional BMDs and T-scores with the fracture type. This conclusion was also reconfirmed concerning age, gender, and Tonnis classification. Only a moderate correlation was observed, demonstrating lower values of regional BMDs in women compared to men. Conclusions The inability of our study to establish a direct correlation between BMD measurements across diverse areas of the proximal femur underlines the imperative need for subsequent investigations. These studies should not only integrate more precise techniques for measuring and mapping the BMD of different hip regions but should also encompass a comprehensive examination that would consider both intrinsic and extrinsic characteristics of the proximal femur.

3D-printed glenoid implant reconstruction, after partial scapulectomy for malignant tumors: a case series.

PURPOSE: Glenoid tumors are extremely rare, and reconstruction remains very challenging. The aim of this study is to present the clinical and functional outcomes, of a new glenoid reconstruction method using 3-dimensional-printed implant. METHODS: Four patients with primary glenoid tumors underwent reconstruction using 3-dimensional-printed glenoid implant linked with reverse shoulder arthroplasty. We retrospectively reviewed the clinical and functional outcome, using MSTS and DASH score, as well as complications' rate. RESULTS: Wide excision was achieved in all patients. No local recurrence or distant metastasis was diagnosed at the follow-up period. The mean MSTS score was 80.5%, and DASH score was 15.2%. According to Hendersons' classification, there were no postoperative complications. CONCLUSION: The use of 3-dimensional-printed implants, can be a very reliable solution with satisfying clinical and functional outcomes for reconstruction, in patients with musculoskeletal malignancies of the glenoid. Level of evidence IV Treatment Study.

Understanding the Role of Radio-Sensitizing Nanoparticles in Enhancing Pathologic Response in Soft Tissue Sarcomas.

High-atomic-number (Z) nanoparticles produce a cascade of low-energy secondary electrons and characteristic X-rays when ionized by X-ray irradiation. These secondary particles deposit their energy in the vicinity of the nanoparticles and, provided that the latter are selectively accumulated within tumor cells, this results in increased DNA damage and tumor cell deaths. This study reviews the utilization of high-Z nanoparticles in the treatment of soft tissue sarcomas (STS). Both in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that the dose is enhanced by approximately 1.2 when polyethelyne glycol (PEG)-modified gold nanoparticles, and from 1.4 to 1.8 when hafnium oxide nanoparticles (NBTXR3, Nanobiotix SA, France) are introduced into tumor cells and activated by X-ray beams. In a phase 2/3 clinical trial investigating the therapeutic benefit of using nanoparticles in preoperative external beam radiotherapy for locally advanced STS, the proportion of patients with a pathological complete response in their resected tumor was doubled when NBTXR3 nanoparticles were used. Additionally, a higher percentage of patients with complete tumor resection was observed in the NBTXR3 plus radiotherapy group. Similar toxicity profiles were found for both the NBTXR3 plus radiotherapy and the radiotherapy alone patient groups. The incorporation of radio-sensitizing nanoparticles in the preoperative radiotherapy of STS could enhance treatment outcomes.

Distinctive Geometrical Traits of Proximal Femur Fractures-Original Article and Review of Literature.

Background and Objectives: The incidence of proximal femoral fractures is escalating rapidly, generating a significant challenge for healthcare systems globally and, carrying serious social and economic implications. The primarily object of this study was to discover potential distinguishing factors between fractures occurring in the femoral neck and trochanteric region. Materials and Methods: We performed a prospective cohort study of the radiographic images of 70 people over 65 years of age who were admitted to the orthopedic department with hip fracture and who fulfilled our eligibility criteria. Neck Length (NL), Offset Lenth (OL), Hip Axis Length (HAL), Neck Shaft Angle (NSA), Wiberg Angle (WA), Acetabular Angle (AA), Femoral Neck Diameter (FND), Femoral Head Diameter (FHD), Femoral Shaft Diameter (FSD), Femoral Canal Diameter (FCD) and Tonnis classification were recorded. For the comparison of the categorical variables, Pearson's χ2 criterion was used, while Student's t-test was applied for the comparison of means of quantitative variables across fracture types. Results: There were no statistically significant variances observed while comparing the selected geometric parameters of the proximal femur with the type of fracture. This finding was reaffirmed in relation to age, gender, and Tonnis classification. However, a moderate correlation was noted, revealing comparatively reduced values of HAL, FHD, and FND in women as opposed to men. Conclusions: The inability of our research to establish the differentiative geometric factors between femoral neck and trochanteric fractures underscores the need for further investigations, which would take into consideration the intrinsic characteristics of the proximal femur.

Anatomical Considerations and Plastic Surgery Reconstruction Options of Sacral Chordoma Resection.

Introduction Chordomas are slow-growing malignant bone tumors arising from remnant embryonic notochord cells with predilection for the sacrum. They rarely metastasize, and early surgical resection with clear margins is the treatment of choice followed by plastic surgery reconstruction supplemented with adjuvant radiotherapy based on the local treatment protocol or in cases with a contaminated surgical field. Aim The aim of the present study is to present our experience in surgical management of sacral chordomas and propose a surgical reconstruction algorithm considering anatomical parameters after partial or total sacrectomy. Materials and methods  Twenty-seven patients with sacral chordomas were treated in our Orthopaedic Surgery Department between January 1997 and September 2022, and 10 of them had plastic surgery reconstruction. Patients were divided into groups based on the type of sacrectomy, sacrum anatomical vascular or neural variations, partial or total, and the type of soft tissue reconstruction. The postoperative complications and the functional outcomes in each patient were assessed. Results  Bilateral gluteal advancement flaps or gluteal perforator flaps are the first choice in patients with partial sacrectomy, intact gluteal vessels, and without preoperative radiotherapy followed by transpelvic vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap or free flaps in those patients with near total sacrectomy and preoperative radiation therapy. Conclusion  There are four reliable options for patients after sacral chordoma resection: direct closure, bilateral gluteal advancement flaps, transpelvic vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flaps, and free flaps. Each time, tumor-free margins and a good reconstructive plan according to the defect and patient characteristics are mandatory.

Effect of selective percutaneous myofascial lengthening and functional physiotherapy on walking in children with cerebral palsy: Three-dimensional gait analysis assessment.

BACKGROUND: Walking is the most affected motor function in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Orthopaedic surgery is regularly used to improve ambulation in children with CP. Selective Percutaneous Myofascial Lengthening (SPML) is considered the state-of-the art technique for surgical lengthening of spastic/contracted muscles in CP. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of combined SPML surgery and postoperative functional physiotherapy on gait function and characteristics of children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP). METHODS: Twenty-six children with spastic CP, aged 5-7 years, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels II (n = 6), III (n = 12) and IV (n = 8) participated in a quasi-experimental one-group pretest-posttest study with a 9-month follow-up. The Global Motion Graph Deviation Index (MGDI) (including MGDI sub-indices of each joint in each plane of motion) and spatiotemporal parameters of a three-dimensional kinematic gait analysis were used to assess the gait function and characteristics, respectively. RESULTS: Nine months following SPML and functional physiotherapy, statistically significant improvements (p < 0.05) were noted in the Global MGDI, the MGDIs of sagittal plane knee and ankle motion analysis graphs, and the four most common spatiotemporal measures of gait: walking velocity, stride length, step length, and cadence. CONCLUSION: Children with spastic CP seem to gain better overall gait function following SPML procedure and functional physiotherapy, by achieving higher walking velocity, longer stride length and step length, and faster cadence. Further studies with control group and longer follow-up three-dimensional gait analyses are warranted to validate these positive results.

Point-of-Care Orthopedic Oncology Device Development.

BACKGROUND: The triad of 3D design, 3D printing, and xReality technologies is explored and exploited to collaboratively realize patient-specific products in a timely manner with an emphasis on designs with meta-(bio)materials. METHODS: A case study on pelvic reconstruction after oncological resection (osteosarcoma) was selected and conducted to evaluate the applicability and performance of an inter-epistemic workflow and the feasibility and potential of 3D technologies for modeling, optimizing, and materializing individualized orthopedic devices at the point of care (PoC). RESULTS: Image-based diagnosis and treatment at the PoC can be readily deployed to develop orthopedic devices for pre-operative planning, training, intra-operative navigation, and bone substitution. CONCLUSIONS: Inter-epistemic symbiosis between orthopedic surgeons and (bio)mechanical engineers at the PoC, fostered by appropriate quality management systems and end-to-end workflows under suitable scientifically amalgamated synergies, could maximize the potential benefits. However, increased awareness is recommended to explore and exploit the full potential of 3D technologies at the PoC to deliver medical devices with greater customization, innovation in design, cost-effectiveness, and high quality.

Myxoid spindle cell sarcoma with ETV6-NTRK3 fusion.

Myxoid spindle cell sarcoma is a rare sarcoma with a demanding histopathologic diagnosis due to the absence of pathognomic immunohistochemistry markers. Genetics include complex karyotypic alterations without characteristic molecular abnormalities for this entity. NTRK alterations are rare findings with great clinical importance since they can be therapeutically targeted with two NTRK inhibitors. Herein we present a case of an adult unclassified myxoid spindle cell sarcoma with ETV6/NTRK3 fusion gene, which is a molecular finding characteristic for infantile fibrosarcoma.

Prosthetic Reconstruction of the Shoulder After Resection of Proximal Humerus Bone Tumor.

Prosthetic reconstruction after wide resection of tumors of the proximal humerus presents a unique challenge. The shoulder is a complex articulation, and patients have high expectations for postoperative function. The goal of this study is to compare functional outcomes, oncologic outcomes, and complication rates for 2 reconstructive methods. Forty patients with proximal humeral tumors were reviewed retrospectively. Proximal humeral endoprosthesis (PHE) was used for 21 patients, and reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) was used for 19 patients. Clinical results, oncologic outcomes, and complication rates were assessed. The functional outcomes of the patients were assessed with the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society scoring system (MSTS), the shortened version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) score, and shoulder range of motion. The mean follow-up was 62±15 months. Shoulder dislocations occurred among 8 patients with PHE and 1 patient with RSA (P=.021). The other complication rates were similar for the 2 groups (P<.05). At the latest follow-up, the mean MSTS score was 68±10.3 for those with PHE and 76±7.7 for the patients with RSA (P=.72). However, the QuickDASH score was significantly better (P=.031) for those with RSA (mean, 19±6.3) compared with patients with PHE (mean, 30±4.8). Additionally, shoulder active abduction and forward flexion were significantly greater for the RSA group (P=.04 and P=.03, respectively). Five patients had local recurrence. Prosthetic reconstruction after oncologic re-section of the proximal humerus is associated with significant limitation of shoulder range of motion and a high rate of revision surgery. However, in this study, RSA was associated with fewer dislocations, improved Quick-DASH score, and greater abduction and forward flexion compared with PHE. [Orthopedics. 2022;45(6):e335-e341.].

Investigation of the Relationship Between Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis and Disordered Spinal and Pelvic Morphology.

Introduction A critical question is the causal relationship between hip or knee osteoarthritis (OA) and disordered spinal and pelvic morphology. The aim of this study is to examine this correlation. Therefore, we studied the effect of total hip or knee arthroplasty (THA/TKA) on truncal parameters to determine the causal relationship between these two situations. Materials and methods This is a prospective study of the effect of THA or TKA in patients with hip or knee OA on truncal morphological parameters. Patients with one-sided hip or knee OA who chose to undergo THA or TKA were enrolled and surveyed. A control group (CG) was also surveyed for comparison with the patients. The patients were preoperatively examined for truncal parameters using the Diers Formetric four-D analysis system (surface topography technique) to calculate several truncal parameters in all planes at four months and 12 months postoperatively. Measurable examinations were performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 17.00 (SPSS Inc., Chicago), and statistical significance was set at a p-value of <0.05. Results The study examined 34 patients who underwent THA, including 19 women and 15 men with a mean age of 67.62 ± 8.28 years. The study also examined 45 patients who underwent TKA, including 34 women and 11 men, with a mean age of 72.42 ± 7.0 years. These patients were also compared with a CG that consisted of 25 normal individuals, including 12 women and 13 men, with a mean age of 69.28 ± 10.11 years. The results of this study from four months after THA revealed that the lordotic angle, trunk torsion, pelvic inclination, pelvic obliquity, and pelvis rotation were improved to normal levels. At 12 months after THA, only the pelvic obliquity was improved to normal levels. At four months after TKA the lordotic angle, pelvic inclination, and pelvic obliquity were improved to normal levels. However, the fleche cervicale and vertebral rotation were worse. At 12 months after TKA, only the pelvic obliquity was improved to normal levels. Conclusions THA and TKA to correct hip and knee OA do not correct the disordered morphology of the trunk in the long term. Thus, hip or knee OA does not seem to be responsible for disordered trunk morphology. However, it cannot be ruled out whether the disturbed morphology is responsible for the appearance of the hip and knee OA.

Translation, reliability and validity of the Greek functional mobility scale (FMS) for children with cerebral palsy.

PURPOSE: To translate and investigate the reliability and validity of the Greek version of the Functional Mobility Scale (FMS). METHODS: FMS was translated into Greek. Test-retest reliability (Cohen's weighted kappa coefficient, κw) and concurrent validity (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient, rs) of the Greek version of FMS were assessed in children with Cerebral Palsy (CP). Sixty children (mean age 7.82 ± 3.20 years) were recruited. Physical therapists administered the FMS by interviewing parents about their children's mobility status. The Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) was additionally used for testing concurrent validity. RESULTS: The translation of the FMS was deemed easy to understand and administer. The Greek FMS was demonstrated to have almost perfect test-retest reliability (κw=0.98-1.00), and very strong correlation with the GMFCS (-0.85 ≤ rs ≤ -0.89, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The Greek version of the FMS was shown to be a reliable and valid classification system for CP and can be used with confidence by Greek physical therapists.Implications for rehabilitationThe FMS provides a very simple and practical outcome measure of functional mobility in children with CP.The use of the reliable and valid Greek FMS will enhance the physical therapy assessment process in the Greek population, by offering the feasibility to detect the motor performance changes in children with CP as they grow or following interventions.The current study renders the Greek FMS available for utilization by physical therapists in order to quantify the independent mobility in children with CP.

Effects of minimally invasive surgery and functional physiotherapy on motor function of children with cerebral palsy: A non-randomised controlled trial.

PURPOSE: This non-randomised controlled trial investigated whether a combined programme of functional physiotherapy and minimally invasive orthopaedic surgery improves the level and degree of capacity and performance of gross motor function in children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP). METHODS: Fifty-two children with spastic CP aged 5-7 years, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels II-IV, were allocated to two equal groups: experimental group (selective percutaneous myofascial lengthening [SPML] procedure and 9-month functional strengthening physiotherapy programme) and control (standard physiotherapy) groups. At baseline and at the end of the 9-month intervention, the capacity and performance of gross motor function were assessed with the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM) D and E subcategories and Functional Mobility Scale (FMS), respectively. The level of gross motor function was measured with the GMFCS. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant difference in the post-intervention improvements in the GMFM D (experimental mean difference = 19.63 ± 10.46; control mean difference = 2.40 ± 4.62) and E (experimental mean difference = 19.33 ± 11.82; control mean difference = 4.20 ± 6.26) between experimental and control group (p < 0.001). There was a significant improvement in the GMFCS level and each FMS distance for the experimental group (p < 0.001), but not for the control group (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: SPML procedure combined with functional physiotherapy improves gross motor function in children with spastic CP, by raising the degree and level of motor independence.

Arthroscopic Removal of Tenosynovial Giant-Cell Tumors of the Cruciate Ligaments. Presentation of Two Cases.

BACKGROUND: Tenosynovial giant-cell tumor (GCT) arising from cruciate ligaments consists a rather rare entity. Predominantly areas where this tumor appears are the palmar sides of fingers and toes. The involvement of larger joints such as the knee or the ankle is rather rare, but, in the case of synovial joints, the knee joint is particularly affected. Furthermore, rare seems to be the intra-articular localization of the tenosynovial GCT of the tendon sheath. Hereby, we present an arthroscopic approach of treatment with two cases. CASE REPORTS: The first case was a 32-year-old male with a GCT arising from the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The second case was a 26-year-old male with a GCT arising from the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). In the first case, a round-shaped mass with a reddish-brown color was located just anterior to the ACL and impeded the full extension of the knee joint, while, in the second case, a well-circumscribed oval-shaped mass was found with a peduncle attached to the synovium of the PCL. After arthroscopic excision, both patients became asymptomatic, with complete lack of pain and full ROM. CONCLUSIONS: There is a lack of clinical features for the GCT of the knee, and thus, a thorough clinical examination is prudent. Usually, the diagnosis is set after an investigation based on suspicion. This entity can present with symptoms of instability and patients may present signs of mechanical derangement. With the knee joint, meniscal symptoms and locking are often present. The best non-invasive technique to diagnose this tumor has been reported to be the magnetic resonance imaging. Arthroscopic excision has been reported as a safe and effective procedure for treatment.

Truncal Changes in Patients Suffering Severe Hip or Knee Osteoarthritis: A Surface Topography Study.

BACKGROUD: Osteoarthritis (OA) of the hip and knee is a degenerative disease with complications, including reduced range of motion and pain. Although OA of the hip and knee is common, there are few studies that investigated if patients with this condition had affected morphological truncal parameters. The objectives of this study were to compare the morphology of the spine and the pelvis of patients with hip or knee OA to that of a control group (CG) and to comment on the proposed mechanisms of these changes and the clinical effects on patients. METHODS: This study included three groups of individuals. The first group consisted of 34 patients (15 men and 19 women with a mean age of 67.62 ± 8.28 years) suffering from hip OA. The second group consisted of 45 patients (11 men and 34 women with a mean age of 72.47 ± 7.0 years) suffering from knee OA. These patients were compared with a CG, which consisted of 25 individuals (13 men and 12 women with a mean age of 69.28 ± 10.11 years). The DIERS formetric 4D analysis system was used to calculate several truncal parameters in all planes. All analyses were accomplished using the SPSS ver. 17.0, and p < 0.05 was used to determine statistical significance. RESULTS: Patients with hip OA presented with significantly increased values than those in the CG for sagittal imbalance, scoliosis angle, vertebral rotation, trunk torsion, and pelvic obliquity, and decreased values than those in the CG for fleche lombaire. Patients with knee OA presented with significantly increased values than those in the CG for sagittal imbalance, apical deviation, scoliosis angle, vertebral rotation, trunk torsion, and pelvic obliquity. Patients with hip or knee OA, compared to the CG, had greater forward inclination of the spine, greater scoliosis, greater vertebral rotation and trunk torsion, and greater obliquity of the pelvis at the frontal plane. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with severe hip or knee OA could have truncal morphology alterations, in addition to reduced hip or knee range of motion and pain. These alterations could cause significant negative effects, which may then seriously affect the patients' quality of life.