Arthroscopic Bankart repair with an individualized capsular shift restores physiological capsular volume in patients with anterior shoulder instability.

PURPOSE: Capsular volume reduction in the context of anterior arthroscopic shoulder stabilization represents an important but uncontrolled parameter. The aim of this study was to analyse capsular volume reduction by arthroscopic Bankart repair with an individualized capsular shift in patients with and without ligamentous hyperlaxity compared to a control group. METHODS: In the context of a prospective controlled study, intraoperative capsular volume measurements were performed in 32 patients with anterior shoulder instability before and after arthroscopic Bankart repair with an individualized capsular shift. The results were compared to those of a control group of 50 patients without instability. Physiological shoulder joint volumes were calculated and correlated with biometric parameters (sex, age, height, weight and BMI). RESULTS: Patients with anterior shoulder instability showed a mean preinterventional capsular volume of 35.6 ± 10.6 mL, which was found to be significantly reduced to 19.3 ± 5.4 mL following arthroscopic Bankart repair with an individualized capsular shift (relative capsular volume reduction: 45.9 ± 21.9%; P < 0.01). Pre-interventional volumes were significantly greater in hyperlax than in non-hyperlax patients, while post-interventional volumes did not differ significantly. The average shoulder joint volume of the control group was 21.1 ± 7.0 mL, which was significantly correlated with sex, height and weight (P < 0.01). Postinterventional capsular volumes did not significantly differ from those of the controls (n.s.). CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic Bankart repair with an individualized capsular shift enabled the restoration of physiological capsular volume conditions in hyperlax and non-hyperlax patients with anterior shoulder instability. Current findings allow for individual adjustment and intraoperative control of capsular volume reduction to avoid over- or under correction of the shoulder joint volume. Future clinical studies should evaluate, whether individualized approaches to arthroscopic shoulder stabilization are associated with superior clinical outcome.

The acromioclavicular ligament shows an early and dynamic healing response following acute traumatic rupture.

PURPOSE: Symptomatic horizontal instability is clinically relevant following acute acromioclavicular joint dislocations. However, the intrinsic healing response is poorly understood. The present study sought to investigate time-dependent healing responses of the human acromioclavicular ligament following acute traumatic rupture. METHODS: Biopsies of the acromioclavicular ligament were obtained from patients undergoing surgical treatment for acute acromioclavicular joint dislocations. Specimens were stratified by time between trauma and surgery: group 1, 0-7 days (n = 5); group 2, 8-14 days (n = 6); and group 3, 15-21 days (n = 4). Time-dependent changes in cellularity, collagen (type 1 and 3) concentration, and histomorphological appearance were evaluated for the rupture and intact zone of the acromioclavicular ligament. RESULTS: Group 1 was characterized by cellular activation and early inflammatory response. The rupture zone exhibited a significantly higher count of CD68-positive cells than the intact zone (15.2 vs 7.4; P ≤ 0.05). Consistently, synovialization of the rupture end was observed. Within the second week, the rupture zone was subject to proliferation showing more fibroblast-like cells than the intact zone (66.8 vs 43.8; P ≤ 0.05) and a peak of collagen type 3 expression (group 1: 2.2 ± 0.38, group 2: 3.2 ± 0.18, group 3: 2.8 ± 0.57; P ≤ 0.05). Signs of consolidation and early remodeling were seen in the third week. CONCLUSIONS: The acromioclavicular ligament exhibits early and dynamic healing responses following acute traumatic rupture. Our histological findings suggest that surgical treatment of acute ACJ dislocations should be performed as early as possible within a timeframe of 1 week after trauma to exploit the utmost biological healing potential. Prospective clinical studies are warranted to investigate whether early surgical treatment of ACJ dislocations translates into clinical benefits.

Fluoroscopic guided tunnel placement during medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction is not accurate in patients with severe trochlear dysplasia.

PURPOSE: Accurate femoral tunnel placement is of great importance during medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction. Purpose of the present study was to investigate the influence of trochlear dysplasia on the accuracy of fluoroscopic guided femoral tunnel placement. METHODS: CT-Scans of 30 knees (five with regular shaped trochlea, 10 with a Type A and five each with a Type B, C, or D trochlear dysplasia) were imported into the image analysis platform MeVisLab. A 3D Bone Volume Rendering (VR) and a virtual lateral radiograph was created. The anatomic femoral MPFL insertion was identified on the 3D VR. On virtual lateral radiographs, the MPFL insertion was identified based on landmarks described by Schöttle et al. using three different perspectives: Best possible overlap of the femoral condyles (BC) and a tangent along posterior border of the posterior femoral cortex (pBC); a tangent along the anterior border of the posterior cortex (aBC); and best possible overlap of the distal part of the posterior femoral cortex (BF). Distances between the anatomic attachment and radiographically obtained insertions were measured on the 3D VR and compared according to the type of trochlear dysplasia. RESULTS: Significantly lower accuracy of fluoroscopy guided tunnel placement in MPFL reconstruction was found in knees with Type C and D dysplasia. This effect was observed irrespectively from the radiologic perspective (pBC, aBC, and FC). In the pBC view (highest accuracy), the mean distance from the centre of the anatomic MPFL attachment to the radiographically defined location was 4.3 mm in knees without trochlear dysplasia and increased to 4.8 mm in knees with Type A dysplasia, 3.8 mm in knees with Type B dysplasia, 6.7 mm (p < 0.001) in knees with Type C dysplasia, and 7.3 mm (p < 0.001) in knees with Type D dysplasia. CONCLUSION: Radiographic landmark-based femoral tunnel placement in the pBC view provides highest accuracy in knees with a normal shaped trochlea or low grade trochlear dysplasia. In patients with severe dysplasia, fluoroscopy guided tunnel placement has a low accuracy, exceeding a critical threshold of 5 mm distance to the anatomic MPFL insertion irrespective of the radiographic perspective. In these patients, utilization of anatomic landmarks may be beneficial. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Arthroscopic patellar release allows timely return to performance in professional and amateur athletes with chronic patellar tendinopathy.

PURPOSE: Return to sports rates in amateur and professional athletes with chronic patellar tendinopathy following arthroscopic patellar release are unpredictable. The present study aims to analyse the effectiveness of arthroscopic patellar release in professional compared to amateur athletes. METHODS: A total of 34 amateur and 20 professional athletes with chronic patellar tendinopathy, refractory to conservative treatment, were studied prospectively and underwent arthroscopic tendon release at the inferior patellar pole. Impact of grouped sports on clinical and functional outcome, subjective patient satisfaction and return to sports rates were assessed. Additionally, preoperative MRI-scans of the knee were evaluated and correlated with clinical outcome. RESULTS: In 40 patients (74.1%) arthroscopic patellar release resulted in complete recovery and return to preinjury exercise levels. Full return to sports was achieved after a median of 3.0 (range 0.5-12.0) months. Functional outcome measures VISA-P (Victorian Institute of sport assessment for patella) and modified Blazina scores improved significantly from pre- to postoperatively (VISA-P: 48.8 vs. 94.0 pts., respectively, p < 0.0001; Blazina: 4.47 vs. 0.5, respectively, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: As rapid recovery and timely return to sports are crucial for professional athletes, arthroscopic patellar release should be considered after failed conservative treatment. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Examination of concomitant glenohumeral pathologies in patients treated arthroscopically for calcific tendinitis of the shoulder and implications for routine diagnostic joint exploration.

BACKGROUND: Glenohumeral exploration is routinely performed during arthroscopic removal of rotator cuff calcifications in patients with calcific tendinitis of the shoulder (CTS). However, evidence on the prevalence of intraarticular co-pathologies is lacking and the benefit of glenohumeral exploration remains elusive. The aim of the present study was to assess and quantify intraoperative pathologies during arthroscopic removal of rotator cuff calcifications in order to determine whether standardized diagnostic glenohumeral exploration appears justified in CTS patients. METHODS: One hundred forty five patients undergoing arthroscopic removal of calcific depots (CD) that failed conservative treatment were included in a retrospective cohort study. Radiographic parameters including number/localization of calcifications and acromial types, intraoperative arthroscopic findings such as configuration of glenohumeral ligaments, articular cartilage injuries, and characteristics of calcifications and sonographic parameters (characteristics/localization of calcification) were recorded. RESULTS: One hundred forty five patients were analyzed. All CDs were removed by elimination with a blunt hook probe via "squeeze-and-stir-technique" assessed postoperatively via conventional X-rays. Neither subacromial decompression nor refixation of the rotator cuff were performed in any patient. Prevalence of glenohumeral co-pathologies, such as partial tears of the proximal biceps tendon (2.1%), superior labral tears from anterior to posterior (SLAP) lesions (1.4%), and/or partial rotator cuff tears (0.7%) was low. Most frequently, glenohumeral articular cartilage was either entirely intact (ICRS grade 0 (humeral head/glenoid): 46%/48%) or showed very mild degenerative changes (ICRS grade 1: 30%/26%). Two patients (1.3%) required intraarticular surgical treatment due to a SLAP lesion type III (n = 1) and an intraarticular rupture of CD (n = 1). CONCLUSIONS: Routine diagnostic glenohumeral exploration does not appear beneficial in arthroscopic treatment of CTS due to the low prevalence of intraarticular pathologies which most frequently do not require surgical treatment. Exploration of the glenohumeral joint in arthroscopic removal of CD should only be performed in case of founded suspicion of relevant concomitant intraarticular pathologies.

Arthroscopic patellar release for treatment of chronic symptomatic patellar tendinopathy: long-term outcome and influential factors in an athletic population.

BACKGROUND: Arthroscopic patellar release (APR) is utilized for minimally invasive surgical treatment of patellar tendinopathy. Evidence regarding long-term success following the procedure is limited. Also, the influence of age and preoperative performance level, are incompletely understood. The aim of this study was to investigate whether APR translates into sustained pain relief over a long-term follow-up in athletes undergoing APR. Furthermore, we analyzed if age influences clinical and functional outcome measures in APR. METHODS: Between 1998 and 2010, 30 competitive and recreational athletes were treated with APR due to chronic refractory patellar tendinopathy. All data were analyzed retrospectively. Demographic data, such as age or level of performance prior to injury were extracted. Clinical as well as functional outcome measures (Swedish Victorian Institute of sport assessment for patella (VISA-P), the modified Blazina score, pain level following exercise, return to sports, and subjective knee function were assessed pre- and postoperatively. RESULTS: In total, 30 athletes were included in this study. At follow-up (8.8 ± 2.82 years), clinical and functional outcome measures such as the mean Blazina score, VISA-P, VAS, and subjective knee function revealed significant improvement compared to before surgery (P < 0.001). The mean time required for return to sports was 4.03 ± 3.18 months. After stratification by age, patients younger than 30 years of age yielded superior outcome in the mean Blazina score and pain level when compared to patients ≥30 years (P = 0.0448). At 8 years of follow-up, patients yielded equivalent clinical and functional outcome scores compared to our previous investigation after four years following APR. CONCLUSION: In summary, APR can be regarded a successful, minimally invasive, and sustained surgical technique for the treatment of patella tendinopathy in athletes. Younger age at surgery may be associated with improved clinical and functional outcome following APR.

Prognostic value of MRI in arthroscopic treatment of chronic patellar tendinopathy: a prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: To date, prognostic outcome factors for patients undergoing arthroscopic treatment due to chronic patellar tendinopathy (PT) are lacking. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether preoperatively assessed MRI parameters might be of prognostic value for prediction of functional outcome and return to sports in arthroscopic treatment of chronic PT. METHODS: A prospective cohort study was conducted including 30 cases (4 female and 24 male competitive athletes) undergoing arthroscopic patellar release (APR) due to chronic PT. The mean age was 28.2 years (range, 18-49 years) at the time of surgery, and the mean follow-up period was 4.2 years (range, 2.2-10.4 years). Preoperatively assessed MRI parameters included bone marrow edema (BME) of the inferior patellar pole, patellar tendon thickening, infrapatellar fat pad (IFP) edema, and infrapatellar bursitis. Prevalences of preoperative MRI findings were correlated to functional outcome scores in order to determine statistically significant predictors. RESULTS: All athletes regained their preinjury sports levels. Athletes featuring preoperative IFP edema showed significantly inferior modified Blazina score (0.6 ± 0.7 vs. 0.2 ± 0.5), single assessment numeric evaluation (SANE; 86.0 ± 8.8 vs. 94.3 ± 7.5), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS; 1.0 ± 1.2 vs. 0.3 ± 0.8) compared to subjects without IFP edema (p < 0.05). Return to sports required a mean of 4 ± 3.2 months. On average, patients with IFP edema needed significantly more time to return to sports than subjects without IFP edema (6.5 vs 2.8 months; p < 0.05). The simultaneous presence of BME and IFP edema was associated with significantly inferior outcomes by means of the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment questionnaire for patients with patellar tendinopathy (VISA-P; 88.1 ± 11.9 vs. 98.6 ± 4.2), SANE (84.3 ± 10.2 vs. 93.1 ± 8.3), and VAS (1.3 ± 1.4 vs. 0.3 ± 0.9) compared to an isolated BME or isolated IFP edema. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first study identifying prognostic outcome factors in arthroscopic treatment of chronic PT. Preoperative IFP edema alone or simultaneous BME and IFP edema on preoperative MRI were associated with inferior functional outcome and delayed return to sports. Knowledge of these predictive factors might improve risk stratification, individualize treatment and postoperative rehabilitation, and contribute to improve clinical outcome. Moreover, current findings offer the potential for novel therapeutic approaches.

Tenoscopic Suprapectoral Biceps Tenodesis.

Existing arthroscopic techniques of proximal biceps tenodesis may be complicated by difficulty of tendon identification, restoration of length-tension relation, cosmetic deformity, persistent biceps pain, and shoulder stiffness requiring surgical revision in a relevant proportion of cases. In this context, biceps tenoscopy, an emerging discipline of shoulder endoscopy, offers major benefits. Tenoscopy comprises endoscopic treatment of tendons and tendon sheaths. The presented technique of tenoscopic suprapectoral biceps tenodesis (TSBT) substantially facilitates tendon identification and reduces invasiveness by avoidance of unnecessary surgical involvement of the deltoid space and bursa. TSBT enables effective treatment of the biceps tendon and surrounding tissues (biceps tendon sheath, tenosynovium, transverse humeral ligament) being consistently involved in proximal biceps pathologies. The physiological length-tension relation of the musculotendinous unit is reliably maintained. Technically, the procedure of tenodesis is simplified and accelerated by redundancy of tendon exteriorization. The aforementioned benefits of TSBT may lead to superior clinical and cosmetic outcomes and lower incidences of persistent proximal biceps pain and postoperative shoulder stiffness compared with conventional techniques of arthroscopic biceps tenodesis.

Arthroscopically Assisted Reconstruction of Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocations: Anatomic AC Ligament Reconstruction With Protective Internal Bracing-The "AC-RecoBridge" Technique.

An arthroscopically assisted technique for the treatment of acute acromioclavicular joint dislocations is presented. This pathology-based procedure aims to achieve anatomic healing of both the acromioclavicular ligament complex (ACLC) and the coracoclavicular ligaments. First, the acromioclavicular joint is reduced anatomically under macroscopic and radiologic control and temporarily transfixed with a K-wire. A single-channel technique using 2 suture tapes provides secure coracoclavicular stabilization. The key step of the procedure consists of the anatomic repair of the ACLC ("AC-Reco"). Basically, we have observed 4 patterns of injury: clavicular-sided, acromial-sided, oblique, and midportion tears. Direct and/or transosseous ACLC repair is performed accordingly. Then, an X-configured acromioclavicular suture tape cerclage ("AC-Bridge") is applied under arthroscopic assistance to limit horizontal clavicular translation to a physiological extent. The AC-Bridge follows the principle of internal bracing and protects healing of the ACLC repair. The AC-Bridge is tightened on top of the repair, creating an additional suture-bridge effect and promoting anatomic ACLC healing. We refer to this combined technique of anatomic ACLC repair and protective internal bracing as the "AC-RecoBridge." A detailed stepwise description of the surgical technique, including indications, technical pearls and pitfalls, and potential complications, is given.

Open fixation of acute anterior glenoid rim fractures with bioresorbable pins: analysis of clinical and radiological outcome.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was a detailed analysis of clinical and radiological results following open fixation of acute-traumatic, displaced anterior glenoid rim fractures with bioresorbable pins. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study included 17 patients with glenoid defect sizes ≥20 %, as directly measured in preoperative sagittal en face CT. The mean glenoid defect size was 25.3 % (20-35, SD 4.7). Two or three polylactid pins were used for fixation. Mean age of patients at the time of surgery was 50.1 years (27-71). The mean follow-up period was 6.2 years (2.0-11.1). Follow-up included comprehensive objective and subjective evaluation of shoulder function as well as standard radiographs. RESULTS: The majority of 15/17 patients obtained good or excellent clinical results according to the absolute and normalized Constant score, the Rowe score, the Oxford shoulder score, the simple shoulder test, the shoulder pain and disability index and the subjective shoulder value. Quality of life (SF-36) showed reference values. Mean or subitem values of all outcome measures did not differ from the contralateral, uninjured side. Radiographically, all fractures healed without secondary dislocation. Radiological signs of glenohumeral arthritis developed in two patients and progressed in two other patients. There were no implant-related complications. No patient experienced glenohumeral instability or had to undergo revision surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Bioresorbable pin fixation is a feasible and safe method of osteosynthesis for anterior glenoid rim fractures up to a glenoid defect size of about 35 % and enables immediate active range of motion. Good or excellent clinical outcome can be expected and glenohumeral stability is reliably restored. The most common mid- and long-term complication is occurrence or progression of osteoarthritis. The major benefits of bioresorbable pin fixation are redundancy of implant removal, minimal risk of implant-related complications and early functional rehabilitation.

Clinical outcome and return to work following single-stage combined autologous chondrocyte implantation and high tibial osteotomy.

PURPOSE: Concomitant unloading procedures, such as high tibial osteotomy (HTO), are increasingly recognized as an important part of cartilage repair. This study presents survival rate, functional outcome, complication rate, and return to work following combined single-stage autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) and HTO. METHODS: Forty patients with a mean follow-up of 60 months with isolated full thickness cartilage defects of the medial femoral condyle (MFC) and concomitant varus deformity were included in this retrospective case series. All patients were treated with a single-stage combined ACI and HTO between January 2004 and December 2010. Functional outcome was evaluated prior to surgery and at follow-up using standard scores (Lysholm, VAS, KOOS). Treatment failure was defined as the need for re-operation. Return to work was evaluated using the REFA score. RESULTS: With all patients (mean age 36.8 SD ± 8.1 years; varus deformity 4.9 ± 1.8 °; mean defect size 4.6 ± 2.1 cm²) a clinical investigation was performed a mean of 60.5 months (SD ± 2.5) postoperatively. Four patients required reintervention (failure rate 10 %). VAS decreased significantly from 6.7 ± 1.9 points preoperatively to 2.2 ± 1.3 points postoperatively. The mean Lysholm score at follow-up was 76.2 ± 19.8 points. The mean KOOS subscales were 81.4 ± 18.0 for pain, 81.3 ± 14.0 for symptoms, 87.6 ± 16.2 for activity in daily living, 66.7 ± 22.8 for function in sport and recreation, and 55.5 ± 22.0 for knee-related quality of living. Mean duration of incapacity from work was 94.5 ± 77 days. Absenteeism from work depended on work load (return to work REFA 0: 68.9 ± 61.4 days vs. REFA 4: 155.0 ± 111.0 days). CONCLUSION: Single-stage autologous chondrocyte implantation and concomitant high tibial osteotomy is a reliable and safe treatment with satisfying clinical outcome and improved functional outcome. However, we found a remarkable stay at work rate, which depended on the work load.

Preoperative planning of calcium deposit removal in calcifying tendinitis of the rotator cuff - possible contribution of computed tomography, ultrasound and conventional X-Ray.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the accuracy of Ultrasound (US), conventional X-Ray (CX) and Computed Tomography (CT) to estimate the total count, localization, morphology and consistency of Calcium deposits (CDs) in the rotator cuff. METHODS: US, CX and CT imaging was performed pre-operatively in 151 patients who underwent arthroscopic removal of CDs in the rotator cuff. In all procedures: (1) total CD counts were determined, (2) the CDs appearance in each image modality was correlated to the intraoperative consistency and (3) CDs were localized in their relation to the acromion using US, CX and CT. RESULTS: Using US158 CDs, using CT 188 CDs and using CX 164 CDs were identified. Reliable localization of the CDs was possible with all used diagnostic modalities. CT revealed 49% of the CDs to be septated, out of which 85% were uni- and 15% multiseptated. CX was not suitable for prediction of CDs consistency. US reliably predicted viscous-solid CDs consistency only when presenting with full sound extinction (PPV 84.6%) . CT had high positive and negative predictive values for detection of liquid-soft (PPV 92.9%) and viscous-solid (PPV 87.8%) CDs. CONCLUSION: US and CX are sufficient for preoperative planning of CD removal with regards to localization and prediction of consistency if the deposits present with full sound extinction. This is the case in the majority of the patients. However, in patients with missing sound extinction CT can be recommended if CDs consistency of the deposits should be determined. Satellite deposits or septations are regularly present, which is of importance if complete CD removal is aspired.

Biceps tenoscopy in arthroscopic treatment of primary synovial chondromatosis of the shoulder.

Primary synovial chondromatosis (PSC) of the shoulder is a rare condition and usually necessitates operative therapy. Arthroscopic partial synovectomy with removal of loose osteochondromas may be regarded as the current surgical treatment of choice. However, involvement of the biceps tendon sheath (BTS) occurs in almost half of the patients and required additional open surgery in all previously reported cases. We successfully performed tenoscopy of the BTS and long head of the biceps tendon during arthroscopic treatment of PSC in a 26-year-old male competitive wrestler. Biceps tenoscopy enabled minimally invasive partial (teno)synovectomy and removal of all osteochondromas within the BTS. The symptoms of PSC fully subsided within 2 postoperative weeks. There were no functional restrictions at the 3-month follow-up examination. These preliminary results support the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of biceps tenoscopy as a complement in arthroscopic treatment of PSC of the shoulder, dispensing with the need for additional open surgery. The spectrum of indications for biceps tenoscopy has still to be defined. Conceivable indications are proposed. This first report of a diagnostic and interventional biceps tenoscopy entails a detailed step-by-step description of the surgical technique.

First-generation versus second-generation autologous chondrocyte implantation for treatment of cartilage defects of the knee: a matched-pair analysis on long-term clinical outcome.

PURPOSE: Since the introduction of autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) for the treatment of cartilage defects, the initial technique has undergone several modifications. Whereas an autologous periosteum flap was used for defect coverage in first generation ACI, a standardized collagen membrane was utilized in second generation ACI. To date, however, no study has proven the superiority of this modification in terms of long-term clinical outcome. The purpose of this matched-pair analysis was therefore to compare the clinical long-term outcome of first and second generation ACI with a minimum follow-up of ten years. METHODS: A total of 23 patients treated with second generation ACI for isolated cartilage defects of the knee were evaluated after a minimum follow-up of ten years using Lysholm and IKDC scores. The results of these patients were compared to those of 23 matched patients treated with first generation ACI. Pair wise matching was performed by defect location, patient age, and defect size. RESULTS: While all patient characteristics such as age (31.7 years SD 6.9 vs. 31.4 years SD 7.8), defect size (5.1 cm² SD 2.3 vs. 4.9 cm² SD 1.5), and follow-up time (10.7 months SD 1.0 vs. 10.5 months SD 0.6) were distributed homogenously in both treatment groups, significant better Lysholm (82.7 SD 9.9 versus 75.6 SD 11.8; p = 0.031) and IKDC scores (76.4 SD 12.8 versus 68.0 SD 12.0, p = 0.023) were found in the group of patients treated with second generation ACI compared to those treated with first generation ACI. In both groups, four patients (17.4%) received surgical reintervention during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: The use of a collagen membrane in combination with autologous chondrocytes (second generation ACI) leads to superior clinical long-term outcome compared to first generation ACI. Based on these results, second generation ACI should be preferred over first generation ACI.

Arthroscopic Removal of Chronic Symptomatic Calcifications of the Supraspinatus Tendon Without Acromioplasty: Analysis of Postoperative Recovery and Outcome Factors.

BACKGROUND: Little knowledge exists on postoperative recovery of pain and shoulder function following arthroscopic removal of calcific deposits of the supraspinatus tendon (ACDSSP). Certain factors may influence outcome, including acromial morphology. PURPOSE: To examine postoperative recovery following ACDSSP without acromioplasty and to analyze influential outcome factors. STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: This prospective study evaluated 82 patients (105 shoulders) after ACDSSP without acromioplasty. Time periods for postoperative recovery of pain and subjective shoulder function were recorded. The absolute and normalized Constant scores (CSabs and CSnorm, respectively), Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS), DASH score (DS), and subjective shoulder value (SSV) were measured after a mean follow-up of 33.9 months. Analyzed outcome factors included localization of the calcific deposit (CD), acromial morphology, radiographic extent of CD removal, type of nonoperative treatment, and preoperative duration of symptoms. RESULTS: Mean duration of postoperative pain was 2.2 weeks. Recovery of subjective shoulder function required 11.1 weeks on average. Mean ± standard deviation follow-up values were 91.1 ± 8.3 for CSabs, 104.2% ± 8.2% for CSnorm, 13.1 ± 2.6 for OSS, 1.81 ± 4.59 for DS, and 93.8% ± 10.7% for SSV. Abduction was significantly (P = .008) lower in patients with type III (170° ± 17.5°) compared with type I (174° ± 20.7°) and type II (179° ± 4.5°) acromions. Also, abduction was significantly (P = .001) lower in patients with long-standing symptoms (>72 months). Minor calcific remnants were found in 19 of 105 shoulders (18.1%), but affected neither postoperative recovery nor outcome. CONCLUSION: ACDSSP without acromioplasty yielded favorable outcomes and effected fast remission of pain regardless of acromial morphology. However, recovery of subjective shoulder function required almost 3 months on average. Minimal restriction of abduction occurred in patients with hook-shaped acromions and long-standing preoperative symptoms. The present data do not support routine performance of acromioplasty.

Mid- and long-term efficacy of the arthroscopic patellar release for treatment of patellar tendinopathy unresponsive to nonoperative management.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the mid- and long-term efficacy of the arthroscopic patellar release (APR) in a representative number of competitive athletes. METHODS: This prospective study included 35 competitive athletes who underwent APR for treatment of chronic refractory patellar tendinopathy. The minimum follow-up period was 24 months. Preoperatively and at follow-up, we measured the Swedish Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment for Patella (VISA-P) and modified Blazina score for assessment of functional outcome. The patients rated their subjective knee function (0% to 100%) and maximum pain during exercise on a visual analog scale (0 to 10 points). We inquired about time required for full return to sports. RESULTS: Thirty athletes (27 male individuals, 3 female individuals) were available for clinical examination after a mean follow-up period of 4.4 years (σ = 3.0 years). The follow-up rate was 30 of 35 (86%). Mean age at surgery was 27.6 years (σ = 7.4). The mean VISA-P score improved from 57.3 (σ = 11.4) to 95.1 (σ = 8.2) and the mean Blazina score improved from 4.0 (σ = 0.8) to 0.3 (σ = 0.7). Average subjective knee function improved from 48.8% (σ = 18.5%) to 90.5% (σ = 9.8%). The mean pain level decreased from 5.7 (σ = 1.1) to 0.6 (σ = 1.2%). All changes were significant (P < .01). Twenty-three (76.7%) athletes were able to perform sports at previous levels without any symptoms. The mean time required for full return to sports was 4.4 months (1.5 to 12.0 months; σ = 3.3). Less pronounced symptoms recurred in 3 (10%) athletes. CONCLUSIONS: After APR, 97% of patients obtained excellent or good functional outcomes with a mean follow-up of 4.4 years. Three of 4 athletes achieved asymptomatic previous sports levels, returning to full sports at an average of 4.4 months. Symptoms partially recurred in 10% of participants. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV: prospective therapeutic case series.

Rotator cuff preservation in arthroscopic treatment of calcific tendinitis.

PURPOSE: We sought to evaluate (1) clinical and radiologic results after arthroscopic calcific deposit (CD) removal and (2) the relevance of remnant calcifications (RCs). METHODS: The study included 102 patients undergoing arthroscopic CD removal, preserving integrity of the rotator cuff. Postoperatively, we divided patients into 2 groups according to the extent of CD removal achieved. Group 1 consisted of patients with complete CD removal. Group 2 included patients showing minor RCs. Ninety-three patients (99 shoulders) completed follow-up. The mean patient age was 50.6 years (31 to 68 years), and the mean follow-up period was 37.3 months (24 to 83 months). We obtained anteroposterior (AP) and outlet radiographs before surgery, postoperatively, and at follow-up. We used the absolute and age- and sex-related Constant scores (CSabs, CSrel) as outcome measures. We compared both groups statistically (Mann-Whitney U test; P < .05). RESULTS: Complete CD removal was achieved in 82 of 99 (82.8%) shoulders (group 1). Postoperatively, minor RCs were found in 17 of 99 (17.2%) shoulders (group 2), an average of 58.6% (± 26.2) of the mean preoperative size. All RCs showed complete (14 of 17) or virtually complete (3 of 17) resolution at follow-up. Overall mean CSabs and CSrel were 88.8 points (± 10.4) and 99.0% (± 3.7), respectively. Mean values of CSabs and CSrel in group 1 (89.5 points ± 9.5 and 99.1% ± 3.7, respectively) and group 2 (86.1 points ± 12.9 and 98.7% ± 4.2, respectively) did not differ. CONCLUSIONS: Arthroscopic CD removal, preserving integrity of the rotator cuff yielded good to excellent results in 90% of patients and avoided iatrogenic tendon defects in all patients. Minor RCs did not impair clinical outcome and spontaneously resolved at follow-up. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Tendon graft fixation sites at the coracoid process for reconstruction of the coracoclavicular ligaments: a kinematic evaluation of three different surgical techniques.

PURPOSE: The virtual graft length kinematics of 3 operative techniques were investigated and compared with kinematics of the native coracoclavicular ligaments. METHODS: Thirteen healthy volunteers underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the shoulder in 30° increments of abduction (0° to 120°). A 3-dimensional model of the coracoid process (CP) and the clavicle (CL) was created. Footprints of the conoid and the trapezoid ligament were identified. At the CP the potential fixation sites of 3 techniques for reconstruction of the coracoclavicular ligaments (CCLs) were marked. The techniques investigated were (1) horizontal transcoracoid drilling (TH), (2) transclavicular-transcoracoid drilling (TT), and (3) tendon graft passage underneath (PU) the coracoid process. Distances between the clavicular and coracoidal footprints of the coracoclavicular ligaments and to the virtual footprints on the coracoid process were determined for each abduction increment. RESULTS: All methods investigated resulted in a significantly longer virtual trapezoidal graft (P = .001). In PU, in addition, the virtual conoidal graft was significantly longer. TT resulted in a virtual conoidal graft and conoid ligament of equal length. TH showed identical length and distance regulation of the virtual conoidal graft and the conoid ligament, but significant shortening of the virtual trapezoidal graft during abduction. PU showed isometry of the virtual trapezoidal and conoidal grafts. CONCLUSIONS: None of the described procedures for graft fixation restores the kinematics of the native coracoclavicular ligaments. Graft fixation techniques should be chosen with respect to the preoperative type of instability. Persisting isolated vertical instability might benefit from fixation of the conoidal grafts at the native clavicular footprint. For horizontal clavicular instabilities, techniques more preserving of trapezoid ligament kinematics might be favorable. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The data suggest that the technique of fixation in conoid and trapezoid ligament reconstruction should depend on the underlying type of instability.

A non-randomized controlled clinical trial on autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) in cartilage defects of the medial femoral condyle with or without high tibial osteotomy in patients with varus deformity of less than 5°.

PURPOSE: High tibial osteotomy (HTO) is a recommended concomitant surgery when treating cartilage lesions of the medial femoral condyle (MFC). Varus deformities of 5° and more were considered an indication for HTO in patients with cartilage defects. This study compares clinical outcome in patients with ACI and concomitant varus deformity of <5° with or without additional HTO. METHODS: 43 patients with isolated cartilage defect of the MFC and varus deformity between 1° and 5° (mean age 39.14 ± 8.35 years; mean varus deformity 2.84 ± 1.19°) were included (follow-up 71.88 ± 23.99 months). Group A (n = 19) was treated with ACI and additional HTO; group B (n = 24) received ACI only. Survival rate in terms of absence of the need of reintervention was defined as main outcome parameter. In the subgroup without reintervention, functional outcome (KOOS and WOMAC) was evaluated. RESULTS: Overall rate of reintervention was 12 (27.9 %). Survival was significantly higher in group A (group A 89.5 %, group B 58.33 %; p = 0.023). Although a trend for better clinical outcome was observed for group A in the subgroup without reintervention, this observation lacked statistical significance (KOOS(symptoms) group A 73.23, group B 59.64; p = 0.274). CONCLUSION: While there is general consensus for treating varus deformities of >5° in patients with cartilage lesions of the medial femoral condyle, HTO also leads to a reduced rate of reinterventions and longer survival rates in patients with varus deformities of <5°.