Magnetic Resonance Imaging Features of Anterolateral Ligament in Young Adults without Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury: Preliminary Evaluation.

This study aimed to characterize the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) features of the Anterolateral Ligament (ALL) in young adults without Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury and evaluate its visibility using MRI. In this retrospective analysis, MRI scans of 66 young adults without ACL injuries were assessed by two radiologists. The ALL was examined from its bone-to-bone attachment between the lateral femoral epicondyle and the lateral tibia. The visibility of the ALL was classified as normal, probably normal, abnormal, or non-visualized, based on ligament continuity and thickness relative to the Meniscotibial Ligament (MTL). A continuous structure with thickness equal to or greater than the MTL was considered normal; continuous but wavy and thin features were categorized as probably normal; discontinuity and angulation were deemed abnormal. The proximal attachment of the ALL was categorized as anterior, central, or posterior to the Fibular Collateral Ligament (FCL), while the distal attachment was noted as either at the same location or distal to the MTL. The ALL was identified in 87.9-95.5% of knees and was non-visualized in 4.5-12.1% of cases. Continuous ligamentous structures were observed in 63.7-71.2% of knees (normal in 30.3-37.9%; probably normal in 27.3-40.9%), whereas 19.7-30.3% exhibited abnormal features. Inter-observer agreement was moderate to substantial (κ = 0.66, 0.56), and intra-observer agreement was substantial to excellent (κ = 0.82, 0.66). Among the 58 visible ALLs, proximal attachments were predominantly anterior (63.8%) or central (32.8%) to the FCL, with a minority posterior (1.7%). In total, 4 of the 19 central insertions were incorporated into the FCL mid-substance, and one case was blended into the meniscofemoral ligament. Distal attachments were equally distributed between the same location (50%) and distal to the MTL (50%) (mean 3.7 mm distal). In conclusion, MRI was feasible for detecting the ALL in most young adults without ACL injury, revealing continuous ligament structures in about two-thirds of cases. Approximately 40% of cases exhibited a thickness equal to or greater than the MTL, with the majority of proximal attachments located anterior to the FCL and distal attachments evenly divided between the same insertion and distal to the MTL.

Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Medial Meniscal Allograft Transplantation Combined With Realignment Surgery.

BACKGROUND: The outcomes of medial meniscal allograft transplantation (MMAT) combined with high tibial osteotomy (HTO) compared with isolated MMAT remain unclear. PURPOSE: To compare the clinical and radiological results of MMAT combined with HTO and isolated MMAT. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: This retrospective study included 42 consecutive patients, who were divided into group M (isolated MMAT; n = 22) and group H (MMAT combined with HTO with a varus angle >3°; n = 20). Group differences in subjective knee scores, isokinetic muscle strength test, and radiological outcomes (Kellgren-Lawrence grade, mechanical axis, graft extrusion, graft status, and articular cartilage loss) were compared. RESULTS: The mean follow-up period was 29.2 ± 4.9 months and 27.4 ± 5.3 months for groups M and H, respectively. The Lysholm score improved from 55.4 ± 9.5 to 81.3 ± 9.7 and from 52.6 ± 8.9 to 84.2 ± 10.2 in groups M and H, respectively (both P < .001). The International Knee Documentation Committee subjective score improved from 51.4 ± 10.3 to 79.6 ± 9.4 and from 49.3 ± 11.4 to 81.4 ± 8.3 in groups M and H, respectively (both P < .001). Both groups showed no significant differences in subjective knee scores and isokinetic extensor strength at the final follow-up. The rate of preoperative and postoperative high International Cartilage Regeneration & Joint Preservation Society grade (≥3) did not differ between the 2 groups. Group M showed greater coronal graft extrusion than did group H (3.3 ± 0.7 mm vs 2.7 ± 0.8 mm; P = .014); the rate of pathologic graft extrusion (≥3 mm) was not higher in group M (40.9%) than in group H (20%) with the number of patients available (P = .143). Both groups showed no significant difference in the graft status. Graft tears were observed in 2 patients (9%) in group M and 1 patient (5%) in group H (P = .607). CONCLUSION: Clinical scores significantly improved after isolated MMAT and MMAT combined with HTO compared with preoperative values, and their short-term outcomes were similar. Postoperative graft extrusion was greater in patients who underwent isolated MMAT, implying that active correction of varus alignment during MMAT may help in intra-articular biomechanics.

The Outcomes of Mini-Plate Fixation for Unstable Wagstaffe Tubercle Fracture, an Indirect Syndesmosis Injury in Rotational Ankle Fracture.

Background: Wagstaffe fracture constitutes an indirect injury to the AITFL and can precipitate syndesmotic instability. The prevailing fixation methods often involve the use of mini-screws or K-wires, with absorbable suture repair reserved for cases with small or comminuted fragments exhibiting instability. In this study, we devised a mini-plate fixation method capable of securing the fracture fragment irrespective of its size or condition. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted on patients who underwent surgery for ankle fractures between May 2022 and October 2023. The surgical technique involved direct fixation of the Wagstaffe fracture using mini-plate fixation. Radiologic evaluation was performed using postoperative CT images, and clinical outcomes were assessed using the OMAS and VAS. Results: Fourteen patients with an average age of 62.5 years were included. Most fractures were associated with the supination-external rotation type. The average preoperative OMAS significantly improved from 5.95 to 83.57 postoperatively. The average VAS score decreased from 7.95 preoperatively to 0.19 postoperatively. Conclusions: The mini-plate technique for Wagstaffe fractures exhibited dependable fixation strength, effective fracture reduction, a minimal complication rate, and judicious surgical procedure duration.

Can a Total Knee System Providing 1 mm Increment of Polyethylene Insert Thickness Offer a Clinical Benefit?

Background and Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare clinical outcomes and polyethylene (PE) insert thickness between total knee arthroplasty (TKA) systems providing 1 mm and 2 mm increments. Materials and Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, 50 patients (100 knees) undergoing same-day or staggered bilateral TKA were randomized to receive a TKA system providing 1 mm increments in one knee (1 mm group) and a TKA system providing 2 mm increments in the other knee (2 mm group). At 2 years postoperatively, Knee Society Score (KSS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score, Forgotten Joint Score (FJS), range of motion (ROM), and insert thicknesses were compared between the groups. Results: A total of 47 patients (94 knees) participated in follow-up analysis. In each group, patient-reported outcomes improved significantly after TKA (all, p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in patient-reported outcomes. The mean ROM was not significantly different between groups at preoperative and 2-year points. The rate of postoperative flexion contracture ≥ 5° was 2.1% and 4.3%, and the rate of postoperative recurvatum ≥ 5° was 4.3% and 2.1% in the 1 mm group and 2 mm, respectively (all, p = 1.000). Mean insert thickness was significantly thinner in the 1 mm group than the 2 mm group (p = 0.001). The usage rate of a thick insert (≥14 mm) was 12.7% and 38.3% in the 1 mm group and 2 mm group (p = 0.005). Conclusions: The use of a TKA system providing 1 mm PE insert thickness increments offered no clinical benefit in terms of patient reported outcomes over systems with 2 mm increments at 2 years of follow-up. However, the TKA system with 1 mm increments showed significantly thinner PE insert usage. As a theoretical advantage of 1 mm increments has yet to be proven, the mid- to long-term effects of thinner PE insert usage must be determined.

Single-incision bone bridge lateral meniscus allograft transplantation: preserving neurovascular safety with promising results for posterior horn distortion and graft maturation.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the graft maturation and safety of single-incision bone bridge lateral meniscus allograft transplantation (LMAT). METHODS: This study involved 35 patients who underwent LMAT between 2019 and 2020. All patients completed at least 2 years of follow-up (median 34 months; range 24-43) and underwent preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess the trajectory safety of the leading suture passer and all-inside suture instrument (Fast-Fix). Graft status was evaluated according to the Stoller classification. RESULTS: Based on preoperative MRI measurements, the expected trajectory of the leading suture passer did not transect the common peroneal nerve (CPN), with the closest distance between the expected trajectory and CPN being 1.4 mm and the average distance being 6.8 ± 3.2 mm. The average distance from the lateral meniscal posterior horn (LMPH) to the popliteal neurovascular bundle (PNVB) was 7.4 ± 2.6 mm and the nearest was 4.8 mm. The expected trajectory of the all-inside suturing instrument did not transect the PNVB when the distance was at least 12 mm, from the most lateral margin of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). Grade 3 signal intensity in the posterior third of the allograft on MRI was observed in 6 of 35 (17.1%) patients. Amongst the grade 3 signal intensities in the posterior one-third of the allografts, 3 of the 35 (8.5%) LMATs had a distorted contour. CONCLUSION: The single-incision bone bridge LMAT technique introduced in this study is a convenient approach that preserves neurovascular safety and provides good results for the distortion of the posterior horn of the allograft and graft maturation. The safety zone for the penetrating devices during the procedure extended from 12 mm laterally to the most lateral margin of the PCL to the medial margin of the popliteal hiatus. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Comparison of ACL and Anterolateral Ligament Reconstruction With Isolated ACL Reconstruction Using Hamstring Autograft: Outcomes in Young Female Patients With High-Grade Pivot Shift.

Background: Inferior return to sports (RTS) and functional outcomes have been reported in women after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose was to evaluate the results of combined ACLR and anterolateral ligament reconstruction (ALLR) in young women with a high-grade pivot shift (grade ≥2). It was hypothesized that combined ACLR and ALLR would result in better RTS and rotational stability than isolated ACLR. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Two groups were retrospectively evaluated and compared. Group I (n = 39; mean age, 31.1 ± 5.7 years) underwent isolated ACLR using hamstring autografts; group C (n = 39; mean age, 30.4 ± 6.1 years) underwent combined ACLR and ALLR. Subjective outcome measures included the International Knee Documentation Committee subjective form, Lysholm, Tegner, and ACL-Return to Sport after Injury (ACL-RSI). Objective tests included a KT-2000 arthrometer stress test, a pivot-shift test, an isokinetic strength test, a Y-balance test, and a single-leg hop test. A postoperative questionnaire was administered to determine the rates and types of RTS, quality of sports performance, and reinjury and satisfaction rates. Subjective scores and clinical tests were performed at 2 years. Magnetic resonance imaging and second-look arthroscopy were conducted during the 1- and 2-year follow-ups, respectively. Results: The mean follow-up for groups I and C were 30.4 ± 3.9 and 29.3 ± 3.5 months, respectively (P = .194). Patients in group C had better anteroposterior (P = .001) and rotational (P = .005) stability and higher ACL-RSI scores (P = .025) than those in group I. Group C had higher composite and posteromedial reach scores on the Y-balance test than group I (P = .014 and P = .010, respectively). A total of 26 (66.7%) patients in group C and 17 (43.6%) in group I returned to their prior level of sports (P = .040). Rerupture of the ACL graft and contralateral ACL rupture occurred in 2 (5.1%) and 2 (5.1%) patients in group I, respectively, compared with no rerupture or contralateral ACL rupture in group C. Conclusion: Combined ACLR and ALLR in young women with a high-grade pivot shift was associated with better knee stability parameters, dynamic postural stability, and psychological readiness to RTS than isolated ACLR.

Usefulness of 3-Dimensional Computed Tomography Assessment of Femoral Tunnel after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

Positioning of the femoral tunnel during anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is the most crucial factor for successful procedure. Owing to the inter-individual variability in the intra-articular anatomy, it can be challenging to obtain precise tunnel placement and ensure consistent results. Currently, the three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction of computed tomography (CT) scans is considered the best method for determining whether femoral tunnels are positioned correctly. Postoperative 3D-CT feedback can improve the accuracy of femoral tunnel placement. Precise tunnel formation obtained through feedback has a positive effect on graft maturation, graft failure, and clinical outcomes after surgery. However, even if femoral tunnel placement on 3D CT is appropriate, we should recognize that acute graft bending negatively affects surgical results. This review aimed to discuss the implementation of 3D-CT evaluation for predicting postoperative outcomes following ACL re-construction. Reviewing research that has performed 3D CT evaluations after ACL reconstruction can provide clinically significant evidence of the formation of ideal tunnels following anatomic ACL reconstruction.

Evaluating the Efficacy of Tension Band Wiring Fixation for Chaput Tubercle Fractures.

BACKGROUND: Chaput tubercle fractures, located at the attachment site of the anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (AITFL) on the distal tibia, have the potential to destabilize the syndesmosis joint. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of tension band wiring (TBW) as a surgical intervention for managing Chaput fractures and the consequent syndesmosis instability. METHODS: A retrospective review of patient charts was undertaken for those who had undergone ankle fracture surgery from April 2019 through May 2022. The surgical procedure involved direct fixation of the Chaput fractures using the TBW method. Radiological assessments were performed using postoperative simple radiographs and computed tomography (CT) scans, while clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS) and the visual analog scale (VAS). RESULTS: The study included 21 patients. The average OMAS improved significantly, rising from 5.95 preoperatively to 83.57 postoperatively. Similarly, the average VAS score dropped from 7.95 before the surgery to 0.19 thereafter. Minor wound complications were reported by three patients, and one case of superficial infection was resolved with antibiotic therapy. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that the TBW technique is an effective surgical approach for treating Chaput fractures and associated syndesmosis instability. It provides reliable fixation strength and leads to improved long-term functional outcomes. Further research is needed to compare the TBW technique with alternative methods and optimize the treatment strategies for these complex ankle fractures.

Evaluating the Safety and Effectiveness of Quick-Soluble Gelatin Sponge Particles for Genicular Artery Embolization for Chronic Knee Pain Associated with Osteoarthritis.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of genicular artery embolization (GAE) using quick-soluble gelatin sponge particles (QS-GSPs) to alleviate chronic knee pain associated with osteoarthritis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study included 71 patients (97 procedures, including 26 patients for both knees) who underwent GAE to treat osteoarthritic knee pain between August 2019 and January 2022. QS-GSPs were used for all the procedures. Technical success was defined as the embolization of at least 1 feeding artery. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using a 10-point visual analog scale (VAS). Clinical success was defined as a decrease in the VAS score of >50%. RESULTS: The technical success rate was 100% (97 of 97). The mean VAS scores at baseline, immediately after TAE, and at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after TAE were 6.3, 4.3, 5.0, 3.0, 2.9, 2.9, and 2.8, respectively. The clinical success rate was 72% (70 of 97 patients) at 6 months. No major adverse events were reported, and temporary skin color change (50.5%, 49 of 97) and hematoma at the puncture site (10.3%, 10 of 97) were observed. CONCLUSIONS: GAE using QS-GSPs had a high technical success rate and was considered safe. Clinical outcomes using QS-GSPs were comparable with those of existing materials.

Additional Anterolateral Ligament Reconstruction Helps Patients Improve Dynamic Postural Stability in Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

Background and Objectives: The goal in treating anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury especially in revision cases is return to sports activity by regaining dynamic postural stability. Among various methods to achieve this goal, additional anterolateral ligament reconstruction (ALLR) is gaining attention. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of additional ALLR in revision ACL reconstruction (RACLR). Materials and Methods: Patients who underwent RACLR between July 2015 and June 2018 were enrolled. The exclusion criteria were less than 1-year follow-up, age older than 45 years, concomitant multiple ligament injuries, contralateral knee injury, subtotal or total meniscectomized state, and articular cartilage lesions worse than Outerbridge grade 3. Thirty-nine patients (20 patients; RACLR only (Group A), 19 patients; RACLR with additional ALLR (Group B)) were included. Clinical scores (Lysholm score, subjective International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, Tegner activity scale), isokinetic strength test, single-leg-hop for distance test (SLHDT), Y-balance test (YBT) were checked preoperatively and 1-year postoperatively. Results: Limb symmetry index values in YBT showed significantly better result in Group B 1-year postoperatively (Group A: 97.2 ± 4.0, Group B: 100.3 ± 2.9, p = 0.010), although there were no differences preoperatively between groups (Group A: 90.4 ± 6.7, Group B: 89.3 ± 5.5, p = 0.594). Regarding clinical scores, isokinetic strength tests, and SLHDT, there were no differences between groups preoperatively nor 1-year postoperatively. Conclusions: Additional ALLR in RACLR helped patients gain better dynamic postural stability at 1-year postoperative follow-up.

Femoral Tunnel Geometry and Graft Inclination Angles in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using a Flexible Reamer System.

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study is to investigate the femoral tunnel geometry (femoral tunsnel location, femoral graft bending angle, and femoral tunnel length) on three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) and graft inclination on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after anatomic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using a flexible reamer system. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 patients who underwent anatomical ACL reconstruction (ACLR) using a flexible reamer system were retrospectively reviewed. One day after the ACLR procedure was performed, all patients underwent three-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The femoral tunnel location, femoral graft bending angle, femoral tunnel length, and graft inclination were assessed. Results: In the 3D-CTs, the femoral tunnel was located at 29.7 ± 4.4% in the posterior to anterior (deep to shallow) direction and at 24.1 ± 5.9% in the proximal to distal (high to low) direction. The mean femoral graft bending angle was 113.9 ± 5.7°, and the mean femoral tunnel length was 35.2 ± 3.1 mm. Posterior wall breakage was observed in five patients (8.3%). In the MRIs, the mean coronal graft inclination was 69.2 ± 4.7°, and the mean sagittal graft inclination was 52.4 ± 4.6°. The results of this study demonstrated that a comparable femoral graft bending angle and longer femoral tunnel length were observed compared with the reported outcomes from previous studies that used the rigid reamer system. Conclusions: ACLR using a flexible reamer system allowed for an anatomic femoral tunnel location and a comparable graft inclination to that of the native ACL. In addition, it achieved a tolerable femoral graft bending angle and femoral tunnel length.

Anatomical Augmentation Using Suture Tape for Acute Syndesmotic Injury in Maisonneuve Fracture: A Case Report.

Ankle syndesmosis is crucial to the integrity of the ankle joint and weight-bearing; an injury to this structure can lead to significant disability. The treatment methods for distal syndesmosis injuries are controversial. The representative treatment methods include transsyndesmotic screw fixation and suture-button fixation, and good results with suture tape augmentation have recently been reported. However, an augmentation using suture tape is only possible when the posterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (PITFL) is intact. This study describes the case of an unstable syndesmosis injury, accompanied by anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (AITFL) and PITFL injuries, which were treated successfully using suture tape. A 39-year-old male patient sustained right ankle damage while skateboarding. His leg and ankle radiographs revealed a widening of the medial clear space, a posterior malleolus fracture, a reduced "syndesmosis overlap" compared with the contralateral side, and a proximal fibula fracture. The magnetic resonance imaging revealed ruptured deltoid ligaments, accompanied by AITFL, PITFL, and interosseous ligament injuries. A diagnosis of a Maisonneuve fracture with an unstable syndesmotic injury was made. The patient underwent an open syndesmotic joint reduction, along with an AITFL and PITFL augmentation. This anatomical reduction was confirmed using intraoperative arthroscopy and postoperative computed tomography (CT). An axial CT that was performed at the 6-month follow-up exam revealed a similar alignment of the syndesmosis between the injured and uninjured sides. There were no surgical complications and the patient did not complain of discomfort in his daily life. At the 12-month follow-up exam, a good clinical outcome was confirmed. As a treatment for unstable syndesmosis injury, ligament augmentation using suture tape shows satisfactory clinical outcomes and can be considered as a useful and reliable method for anatomical restoration and rapid rehabilitation.

Correlation of Y Balance with Clinical Scores and Functional Tests after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Young and Middle-Aged Patients.

Background: Criteria for return to sports (RTS) following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction have been extensively studied. But there is no consensus among investigators regarding which factors are most important in determining a safe RTS. Methods: Sixty-one patients who underwent ACL reconstruction were included. Subjective knee scoring systems (International Knee Documentation Committee [IKDC] score and Lysholm score), functional performance tests (carioca test and single-leg hop for distance [SLHD] test), and isokinetic knee strength test were used for assessment and analyzed for association with the limb symmetry index (LSI) of the Y-balance test for lower quarter (YBT-LQ). Results: The LSI of the YBT-LQ was significantly correlated with Lysholm score, IKDC score, Carioca, LSI for the SLHD, and extensor strength deficit at 6 months after ACL reconstruction. At 12 months, Lysholm score, IKDC score, LSI for the SLHD, and extensor strength deficit were significantly correlated with the LSI of the YBT-LQ. Conclusions: The YBT-LQ test could be used conveniently as an additional tool to assess the patient's functional performance results after ACL reconstruction in outpatient clinics.

Evaluation of the Quality of Information Available on the Internet Regarding Chronic Ankle Instability.

Background and objectives: Most Koreans obtain medical information from the Internet. Despite the vast amount of information available, there is a possibility that patients acquire false information or are dissatisfied. Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is one of the most common sports injuries that develops after an ankle sprain. Although the information available on the Internet related to CAI has been evaluated in other countries, such studies have not been conducted in Korea. Materials and Methods: The key term "chronic ankle instability" was searched on the three most commonly used search engines in Korea. The top 150 website results were classified into university hospital, private hospital, commercial, non-commercial, and unspecified websites by a single investigator. The websites were rated according to the quality of information using the DISCERN instrument, accuracy score, and exhaustivity score. Results: Of the 150 websites, 96 were included in the analysis. University and private hospital websites had significantly higher DISCERN, accuracy, and exhaustivity scores compared to the other websites. Conclusions: Accurate medical information is essential for improving patient satisfaction and treatment outcomes. The quality of websites should be improved to provide high-quality medical information to patients, which can be facilitated by doctors.

Effect of Preoperative Joint Space Width on Lateral Meniscal Allograft Transplantation: Outcomes at Midterm Follow-up.

Background: It remains unclear whether lateral joint space narrowing without severe cartilage loss before meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) affects clinical outcomes and graft extrusion. Hypothesis: Patients with greater preoperative joint space narrowing would show more graft extrusion, more osteoarthritis progression, and worse clinical outcomes than would those with less narrowing. Study Design: Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 61 patients who underwent lateral MAT and had a minimum follow-up of 4 to 5 years. The median preoperative joint space width (JSW) on Rosenberg view radiographs was used to classify patients into those with less joint space narrowing (JSW ≥3 mm; group A) and greater joint space narrowing (JSW <3 mm; group B). We compared differences between groups in terms of graft extrusion and articular cartilage loss (modified Outerbridge grade ≥3) on 1-year postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans and changes in JSW and clinical outcomes at the last follow-up. Results: There were 31 patients in group A and 30 patients in group B; the mean follow-up time for all patients was 64.4 ± 10.3 months. All patients showed a significant preoperative to postoperative improvement in outcome scores (P < .001 for all). The mean preoperative JSW was 3.8 ± 0.9 mm in group A and 2.3 ± 0.4 mm in group B (P < .001). In group B, there was more graft extrusion on postoperative MRI scans (3.0 ± 0.9 vs 1.9 ± 0.6 mm, respectively; P < .001) and a higher proportion of patients with pathological graft extrusion at final follow-up (43.3% vs 12.9%, respectively; P = .011) compared with group A. At 1 year postoperatively, cartilage loss grade ≥3 was observed at the lateral femoral condyle in 3.2% and 20.0% of patients in groups A and B (P = .053), respectively, and at the lateral tibial plateau in 3.2% and 30.0% of patients (P = .006), respectively. There were moderate correlations between graft extrusion and preoperative absolute JSW (r = -0.471; P < .001) and preoperative relative JSW (r = -0.428; P = .001). Conclusion: Patients with less preoperative joint space narrowing had less graft extrusion and cartilage loss on 1-year postoperative MRI scans, as well as better radiological and clinical outcomes at midterm follow-up, compared with patients with greater preoperative narrowing.

A Tension-Band Wiring Technique for Direct Fixation of a Chaput Tubercle Fracture: Technical Note.

Few reports have described direct fixation of the Chaput tubercle; screw fixation is usually employed. Herein, we introduce a novel technique for Chaput tubercle fixation using tension-band wiring. This technique is applicable to fractured tubercles of various sizes and has the advantage that the fragment breakage that may occur during screw fixation is impossible. In addition, our technique increases fixation strength.

Patients with advanced lateral osteoarthritis can return to sports and work after distraction arthroplasty plus lateral meniscal allograft transplantation combined with cartilage repair.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to report return to sports (RTS) and return to work (RTW) outcomes after distraction arthroplasty (DA) plus lateral meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) combined with cartilage repair in active patients with advanced osteoarthritis. It was hypothesised that DA combined with lateral MAT would improve clinical and radiological outcomes and enable RTS and RTW for most patients. METHODS: In total, 21 patients with advanced osteoarthritis (moderate to severe joint space narrowing at lateral edge on Rosenberg view and large cartilage defect of lateral femoral condyle) who underwent concomitant DA and MAT were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical outcomes were assessed using subjective knee scores [Lysholm score, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective knee score, and Tegner activity scale (TAS)] and functional tests (isokinetic extensor muscle strength test, single-leg vertical jump test, and single-leg hop for distance test). The rates of RTS, RTW, and satisfaction were evaluated. Radiological outcomes were assessed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and X-ray (Rosenberg view). RESULTS: The mean age at surgery and mean follow-up duration were 37.2 ± 5.9 years and 37.1 ± 5.4 months, respectively. All improvements in subjective scores were statistically significant (p < 0.001). The Lysholm score improved from 58.3 ± 8.1 to 84.3 ± 8.2, the IKDC subjective score from 53.9 ± 10.4 to 78.0 ± 7.7, and the TAS from 4.0 ± 0.5 to 5.1 ± 0.8. The limb symmetry index (LSI) (%) of the extensor peak torque at an angular velocity of 60°/s improved from 67.3 ± 19.2 to 88.4 ± 20.3% (p = 0.001). The LSI of the single-leg vertical jump test and single-leg hop for distance test improved from 62.8 ± 21.3 to 87.7 ± 19.5% and from 63.9 ± 20.8 to 85.5 ± 18.1%, respectively (all, p < 0.001). All patients were able to return to any sports activity and work. However, 67% and 90.5% returned to their defined or desired level of sports activity and occupation intensity, respectively. Further, 76.2% were very satisfied or somewhat satisfied with the outcome at the last follow-up. The JSW increased by 0.8 ± 0.4 to 2.3 ± 0.6 mm (p = 0.005). In more than 90% of patients, > 50% of cartilage lesion was covered. The mean graft extrusion was 2.6 ± 1.0 mm. CONCLUSION: All patients who underwent distraction arthroplasty plus lateral MAT combined with cartilage repair returned to any sports and work at the last follow-up. Significant improvements in clinical outcomes and the radiographic joint space width were observed. However, the activity ability was somewhat reduced compared with the best preoperative level. This one-stage joint salvage treatment is a promising option for young and active patients with advanced OA who wish to return to high levels of sports activity and occupation intensity (≥ Tegner activity scale 4). LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Comparison of Radiologic Results after Lateral Meniscal Allograft Transplantation with or without Capsulodesis Using an All-Soft Suture Anchor.

Background and Objectives: Studies analyzing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after simultaneously performing lateral meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) and capsulodesis are currently rare. This study aimed to compare the MRI results between the group that performed lateral MAT alone and the group that performed both lateral MAT and capsulodesis simultaneously. Materials and Methods: A total of 55 patients who underwent lateral MAT with a 1-year follow-up MRI were included. The patients were divided into two groups according to the surgical procedure: group I (isolated lateral MAT, n = 26) and group C (combined lateral MAT and capsulodesis, n = 29). Differences between groups were compared regarding subjective knee scores, graft extrusion, graft signal, articular cartilage loss, and joint space width (JSW). Results: The subjective knee scores improved significantly in both groups (all, p < 0.001), and there were no significant differences in these scores between both groups at the 1-year follow-up. Group C showed less coronal graft extrusion at the 1-year follow-up (1.1 ± 1.7 mm vs. 2.4 ± 1.8 mm, p < 0.001). Pathologic coronal graft extrusion (≥3 mm) was found in seven (26.9%) patients in group I and three (10.3%) in group C. Concerning the graft signal, group C showed less grade 3 signal intensity in the posterior root of the graft. There were no significant differences in preoperative and postoperative cartilage status between groups. Regarding JSW, there were no significant differences in postoperative JSW between both groups. However, in group C, JSW significantly increased from 3.9 ± 0.4 mm to 4.5 ± 1.4 mm (p = 0.031). Conclusions: In lateral MAT, capsulodesis (open decortication and suture anchor fixation) could reduce graft extrusion without complications. In the future, large-volume and long-term prospective comparative studies are needed to confirm the clinical effects following capsulodesis.

Staged Joint Arthrodesis in the Treatment of Severe Septic Ankle Arthritis Sequelae: A Case Report.

Septic ankle arthritis is a devastating clinical entity with high risks of morbidity and mortality. Prompt treatment is necessary because delayed or inadequate treatment can lead to irreversible damage that may occur on the articular surface, resulting in cartilage erosion, infective synovitis, osteomyelitis, joint deformity, and pain and joint dysfunction. An aggressive surgical approach is required when a joint infection causes severe limb-threatening arthritis. A 58-year-old woman visited our clinic with increasing pain in the right ankle, which had been present for the previous 2 months. She complained of discomfort in daily life due to deformity of the ankle; limping; and severe pain in the ankle even after walking a little. The patient reported a history of right-ankle injury while exiting a bus in her early 20s. Plain radiographs of the right ankle joint revealed that the medial malleolus was nearly absent in the right ankle joint on the anteroposterior view, and severe varus deformity was observed with osteoarthritic changes because of joint space destruction. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed diffuse synovial thickening of the destroyed tibiotalar joint with joint effusion. Hybrid 99mTc white blood cell single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography showed increased uptake along the soft tissue around the ankle joint; uptake was generally low in the talocrural and subtalar joints. A two-stage operation was performed to remove the infected lesions and correct the deformity, thus enabling limb salvage. The patient was nearly asymptomatic at the 6-month follow-up, with no discomfort in her daily life and nearly normal ability to carry out full functional activities. She had no complications or recurrent symptoms at the 1-year follow-up. We have described a rare case of a staged limb salvage procedure in a patient with chronic septic arthritis sequelae. For patients with severe joint deformity because of septic ankle sequelae, staged arthrodesis is a reliable method to remove infected lesions, solve soft tissue problems, correct deformities, and maintain leg length.

Internal Fixation of Lateral Trochlear Groove Osteochondritis Dissecans With Simultaneous Lateral Retinacular Lengthening in Adolescent Athletes.

BACKGROUND: The goals of operative treatment for the adolescent athlete with unstable osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) lesion are rigid fixation and prevention of recurrence. PURPOSE: To evaluate clinical and radiological outcomes of internal fixation of lateral trochlear groove OCD with simultaneous lateral retinacular lengthening. STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: Adolescent athletes who had undergone internal fixation and simultaneous lateral retinacular lengthening for an unstable OCD lesion of the lateral trochlear groove were retrospectively reviewed. Subjective assessments included the Lysholm score, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective score, Tegner activity scale, and an athletic questionnaire. Functional tests included isokinetic muscle strength, single-leg hop for distance, single-leg vertical jump, and Y-balance. Pre- and postoperative radiographs and magnetic resonance images were reviewed. RESULTS: The mean ± SD age of the 17 patients included in this study was 15.9 ± 0.9 years; last clinical follow-up duration was 37.7 ± 8.1 months. At the last follow-up, the Lysholm score improved from 68.7 ± 15.3 to 93.4 ± 12.4 and the IKDC subjective score from 60.2 ± 14.7 to 88.7 ± 12.7 (P < .001). The mean Tegner activity scale score was 9.4 ± 0.5 before injury and 8.9 ± 1.2 at the last follow-up (P = .059). The limb symmetry indices of isokinetic muscle strength, single-leg hop for distance, single-leg vertical jump, and Y-balance improved at the last follow-up; the mean limb symmetry index was ≥85% in each functional test. Regarding the athletic questionnaire, 16 (94.1%) patients were satisfied with the surgery. At the last follow-up, 2 patients had higher ability after returning to sports, 11 had the same ability, and 3 had lower ability than the preinjury level. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging at 12-month follow-up showed that the OCD lesion appeared healed in 7 (41.2%) patients and partially healed in 9 (52.9%). CONCLUSION: Internal fixation of lateral trochlear groove OCD with simultaneous lateral retinacular lengthening in adolescent athletes achieved satisfactory clinical and radiological outcomes. Therefore, this combined surgical technique could be considered an effective treatment for lateral trochlear groove OCD, with a high rate of return to sport.