What Patients Say About Their Orthopaedic Hand and Wrist Surgeons: A Qualitative Analysis of Negative Reviews on Yelp.

Background Patients often turn to online reviews as a source of information to inform their decisions regarding care. Existing literature has analyzed factors associated with positive online patient ratings among hand and wrist surgeons. However, there is limited in-depth analysis of factors associated with low patient satisfaction for hand and wrist surgeons. The focus of this study is to examine and characterize extremely negative reviews of hand and wrist surgeons on Yelp.com. Methods A search was performed using the keywords "hand surgery" on Yelp.com for eight major metropolitan areas including Washington DC, Dallas, New York, Phoenix, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Boston, and Seattle. Only single-star reviews (out of a possible 5 stars) of hand and wrist surgeons were included. The complaints in the 1-star reviews were then categorized into clinical and nonclinical categories. Result A total of 233 single-star reviews were included for analysis, which resulted in 468 total complaints. Of these complaints, 81 (18.8%) were clinically related and 351 (81.3%) were nonclinical in nature. The most common clinical complaints were for complication (24 complaints, 6%), misdiagnosis (16 complaints, 4%), unclear treatment plan (16 complaints, 4%), and uncontrolled pain (15 complaints, 3%). The most common nonclinical complaints were for physician bedside manner (93 complaints, 22%), financially related (80 complaints, 19%), unprofessional nonclinical staff (61 complaints, 14%), and wait time (46 complaints, 11%). The difference in the number of complaints for surgical and nonsurgical patients was statistically significant ( p < 0.05) for complication and uncontrolled pain. Clinical Relevance Patient satisfaction is dependent on a multitude of clinical and nonclinical factors. An awareness of online physician ratings is essential for hand and wrist surgeons to maintain and improve patient care and patient satisfaction. We believe the results of our study could be used to further improve the quality of care provided by hand and wrist surgeons.

Low-Income, Poor Physical Health, Poor Mental Health, and Other Social Risk Factors Are Associated With Decreased Access to Care in Patients With Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is associated with a significant personal and societal burden. Evaluating access to care can identify barriers, limitations, and disparities in the delivery of healthcare services in this population. The purpose of this study was to evaluate access to overall healthcare and healthcare utilization among patients with CTS. METHODS: This is a retrospective cohort study conducted with the All of Us database. Patients diagnosed with CTS that completed the access to care survey were included and matched to a control group. The primary outcomes were access to care across 4 domains: (1) delayed care, (2) could not afford care, (3) skipped medications, and (4) over 1 year since seeing provider. Secondary analysis was then performed to identify patient-specific factors associated with reduced access to care. RESULTS: In total, 7649 patients with CTS were included and control matched to 7649 patients without CTS. In the CTS group, 33.7% (n = 2577) had delayed care, 30.4% (n = 2323) could not afford care, 15.4% (n = 1180) skipped medications, and 1.6% (n = 123) had not seen a provider in more than 1 year. Within the CTS cohort, low-income, worse physical health, and worse mental health were associated with poor access to care. CONCLUSION: Patients experience notable challenges with delayed care, affordability of care, and medication adherence regardless of having a diagnosis of CTS. Targeted interventions on modifiable risk factors such as low income, poor mental health, and poor physical health are important opportunities to improve access to care in this population.

Evaluating the Need for Simultaneous Carpal Tunnel Release With Forearm Fasciotomy.

PURPOSE: The need to include simultaneous carpal tunnel release (sCTR) with forearm fasciotomy for acute compartment syndrome (ACS) or after vascular repair is unclear. We hypothesized that sCTR is more common when: 1) fasciotomies are performed by orthopedic or plastic surgeons, rather than general or vascular surgeons; 2) ACS occurred because of crush, blunt trauma, or fractures rather than vascular/reperfusion injuries; 3) elevated compartment pressures were documented. We also sought to determine the incidence of delayed CTR when not performed simultaneously. METHODS: Retrospective chart review identified patients who underwent forearm fasciotomy for ACS or vascular injury over a period of 10 years. Patient demographics, mechanism of ACS or indication for fasciotomy, surgeon subspecialty, compartment pressure measurements, inclusion of sCTR, complications, reoperations, and timing and method of definitive closure were analyzed. Logistic regression modeling was used to analyze predictors associated with delayed CTR. RESULTS: Fasciotomies were performed in 166 patients by orthopedic (63%), plastic (28%), and general/vascular (9%) surgeons. Orthopedic and plastic surgeons more frequently performed sCTR (67% and 63%, respectively). A total of 107 (65%) patients had sCTR. Fasciotomies for vascular/reperfusion injury were more likely to include sCTR (44%) compared with other mechanisms. If not performed simultaneously, 11 (19%) required delayed CTR at a median of 42 days. ACS secondary to fracture had the highest rate of delayed CTR (35%), and the necessity of late CTR for fractures was not supported by the logistic regression model. Residual hand paresthesias were less frequent in the sCTR group (6.5% vs 20%). Overall complication rates were similar in both groups (63% sCTR vs 70% without sCTR). CONCLUSION: When sCTR is excluded during forearm fasciotomy, 19% of patients required delayed CTR. This rate was higher (35%) when ACS was associated with fractures. Simultaneous CTR with forearm fasciotomy may decrease the incidence of residual hand paresthesias and the need for a delayed CTR. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognosis IV.

Sensitivity and Accuracy of High-Resolution Ultrasound for Diagnosis of Flexor Tendon Repair Integrity.

BACKGROUND: The authors examined whether ultrasound sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy in identifying intact repairs or flexor tendon gapping after zone 2 repair are affected by the number of suture strands crossing the repair or gap or imaging modality (static versus dynamic). METHODS: A total of 144 fresh-frozen cadaveric digits (thumbs excluded) were randomized to either an intact repair (0-mm gap) or simulated failed repair (4-mm gap), as well as to either a two- or eight-strand locked-cruciate repair of a zone 2 flexor digitorum profundus tendon laceration using 4-0 Fiberwire. Examinations were performed by a blinded musculoskeletal ultrasonographer in static and dynamic modes using an 18-MHz transducer. Gaps were remeasured after scanning, and the final gap width recorded. McNemar exact test was used to determine whether there were differences in sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy affected by modality (static versus dynamic), and chi-square test was used to compare sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy between number of strands (two versus eight) crossing the intact repair or repair gap (≥4 mm). RESULTS: Sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy improved with increased number of suture strands crossing the repair or gap (eight versus two), irrespective of modality (static versus dynamic), and dynamic compared with static scanning modes, irrespective of number of suture strands crossing the repair or gap site. CONCLUSIONS: The most sensitive and accurate means of assessing flexor tendon repair integrity and gapping were seen using the dynamic scanning mode. Increased number of suture strands did not negatively affect sensitivity, specificity, or accuracy, regardless of scanning mode (dynamic or static).

Comparative sensitivity and accuracy of 24 vs. 18 MHz ultrasound probes for the diagnosis of flexor tendon repair integrity.

Purpose: To determine whether a 24 MHz transducer significantly improves sensitivity, specificity and accuracy in evaluating flexor tendon repair integrity compared with an 18 MHz transducer. Methods: One hundred and twelve cadaveric digits were randomised to an intact repair or simulated 'failed' repair, and to a two- or eight-strand repair of a flexor digitorum profundus laceration. A blinded sonologist evaluated specimens in static mode using 18 and 24 MHz transducers. Gaps were remeasured after scanning, and final gap width recorded. McNemar's exact test calculated differences between sensitivity, specificity and accuracy, and chi-squared test to compare sensitivity, specificity and accuracy between number of strands (2 vs. 8) and repair gap (≥4 mm). Results: The 24 MHz transducer had higher sensitivity (81 vs. 59%), lower specificity (67 vs. 70%) and higher overall accuracy (74 vs. 64%), than the 18 MHz transducer. The difference for sensitivity was significant (P = 0.011), but not differences for specificity and overall accuracy (P > 0.05). Pearson's correlation (r = 0.61) demonstrated a moderate-to-strong positive correlation between measured and true gap sizes. Increased number of suture strands (2 vs. 8) did not impair sensitivity, specificity nor accuracy. Discussion: Ultrasound may tend to overestimate gap width, and a slight risk that some intact repairs, or those with small, clinically insignificant gaps may undergo surgical exploration that may not be indicated. Conclusions: A 24 MHz transducer is a more sensitive and accurate transducer for assessing flexor tendon repair integrity and measuring small gaps.

Musculofascial Z-Lengthening for the Management of Chronic Medial Epicondylitis: Technique and Early Results.

Medial epicondylitis is a common elbow pathology secondary to flexor-pronator tendinosis associated with repetitive wrist flexion activities. Though often responsive to nonoperative management, recalcitrant symptomatology is not uncommon. Surgical intervention for chronic medial epicondylitis most commonly involves open debridement of degenerative tendon which can be difficulty to identify and with a notably risk of iatrogenic complication. We present a reproducible musculofascial z-lengthening of the flexor-pronator mass for management of chronic medial epicondylitis and report the mid-term results of this intervention.

Establishing Confidence Intervals for Normal Radiographic Intracarpal Alignment Throughout the Arc of Wrist Motion: A Cadaveric Pilot Study.

BACKGROUND: High-quality lateral radiographs with the wrist in neutral (0°) or near neutral (less than 15° flexion or extension) are felt to be important for diagnosing carpal instability using intracarpal angular measurements, but may be unavailable. In addition, radiolunate (RLA) and capitolunate (CLA) measurement angles for defining carpal instability have poor validation. We sought to establish 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for predicted RLA and CLA throughout the arc of wrist motion in normal cadaveric wrists. METHODS: Fresh frozen cadaveric upper extremities were secured in a limb positioner. Scaphopisocapitate lateral radiographs were obtained throughout the arc of motion and RLA and CLA, and wrist flexion or extension angles (WA) were measured by a board-certified hand surgeon. Scatter plots of variables were constructed, and correlation coefficients calculated for areas under the curves. Regression equations for predicted RLA and CLA based on WA were developed. RESULTS: Both RLA and CLA correlated strongly with WA for each measurement in both flexion and extension (r = 0.7-0.8). Linear regression modeling demonstrated a good relationship between RLA (R2 = 84%) and CLA (R2 = 80%) with WA. Regression equations were constructed to give predicted values for RLA and CLA based on WA and 95% prediction CI. CONCLUSIONS: If RLA and CLA exceed 20° with neutral (0°) wrist alignment, it likely represents pathologic carpal alignment. Presented tables demonstrate 95% CI of RLA and CLA throughout the arc of wrist flexion/extension. Values outside of the 95% CI are also likely to indicate pathologic carpal alignment.

Time-Dependent Change in Carpal Tunnel Cross-Sectional Area and Transverse Carpal Ligament Thickness Using Serial Magnetic Resonance Imaging Studies-An Anatomical Study.

PURPOSE: Idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common compressive neuropathy. Aging and female sex are risk factors, but the reasons are unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether identifiable radiographic changes resulting in a decrease in carpal tunnel area (CTA) over time exist. METHODS: A database search of a multicenter, academic, tertiary institution from 1998 to 2021 identified 433 patients with serial wrist magnetic resonance images (MRI) at least 5 years apart. Fifty-six met the inclusion criteria with adequate films to measure CTA and transverse carpal ligament (TCL) thickness at the same slice location-the carpal tunnel inlet, hook of the hamate, and carpal tunnel outlet-independently by two observers who were blinded to each other's measurements. Rates for the change in CTA and TCL thickness were calculated at all three locations. RESULTS: Thickness of the TCL increased, whereas that of the CTA decreased over time. Inlet CTA decreased by 0.9 mm2 per year (95% CI: 0.34-1.5), outlet CTA decreased by 1.8 mm2 per year (95% CI: 1.2-2.5), and CTA at the hook of the hamate decreased by 1.6 mm2 per year (95% CI: 1.0-2.0 per year). The TCL thickened by 0.02 mm per year at all three sections. Taller patients had a decreased rate of CTA loss. CONCLUSIONS: In this select cohort, TCL thickened and CTA decreased with time. TCL thickening accounted for about half of the variation in CTA, suggesting that this is a possible contributor to this change. Hypertrophy of the carpal tunnel floor may account for the remaining variation in CTA. The question of whether these results are reliable and generalizable to the general population, or a major influence in the pathophysiology of CTS, is unknown. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Small decreases in CTA and thickening of the TCL occur with aging. Whether this is a contributing factor in the development of CTS requires further study.

Inter- and Intra-observer Agreement of Visual Estimation, Goniometric and Radiographic Measurement of Passive Thumb Metacarpophalangeal Joint Hyperextension.

Background: Reliable methods for measuring range of motion is important for hand therapists. Currently, there is no gold standard for the measurement of thumb metacarpophalangeal joint (MCPJ) hyperextension. We hypothesised that visual and goniometric measurements of thumb MCPJ hyperextension vary greater than 10° from radiographic measurements, and between observers. Methods: Twenty-six fresh-frozen hands were measured by a senior orthopaedic resident and fellowship trained hand surgeon. Passive thumb MCPJ hyperextension was measured by visual estimation, goniometry and axis measurement on a lateral thumb radiograph. Raters were blinded to each other's and their own prior measurements. Descriptive statistics were recorded for measurement type and inter-observer agreement using a two-way intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC). Intra-observer agreement was calculated using concordance correlation coefficient (CCC). Bland-Altman plots identified trends, systemic differences or potential outliers. Results: Mean measurements for both raters were similar for visual estimation and radiographic measurements. Mean goniometric measurements were twice as high for Rater B, and closer to radiographic measurements. For both raters, mean radiographic measurements were 10° greater than the other two methods. For inter-rater agreement, measurements were within 10° most frequently with radiographic measurement, then visual estimates, and least by goniometer measurements. Rater B had better agreement comparing visual and goniometric to radiographic measurements. Conclusions: Radiographic measurement has the best inter-observer agreement and precision for evaluating passive thumb MCPJ hyperextension, especially considering adjunct corrective procedures when performing a soft-tissue basal joint arthroplasty. Rater experience improves precision, but there is still poor agreement between visual estimates and goniometer measurements compared to radiographic measurements, as the former two underestimate hyperextension by 10°. Development of a standard method of clinical measurement is needed to improve reliability.

Long-term Trends in Open vs Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release Among the Medicare Population in the United States.

BACKGROUND: Carpal tunnel release (CTR) surgery is the most common surgery billed to Medicare by hand surgeons. As such, the purpose of this study was to evaluate trends for CTR surgeries billed to Medicare from 2000 to 2020. METHODS: The publicly available Medicare Part B National Summary File from 2000 to 2020 was queried. For both open carpal tunnel release (OCTR) and endoscopic carpal tunnel release (ECTR), the number of procedures and total Medicare reimbursement were extracted. For year 2020, the specialty of the performing surgeon was recorded. Descriptive statistics were reported. RESULTS: A total of 3 429 471 CTR surgeries were performed in the Medicare population from 2000 to 2020. For these procedures, Medicare paid surgeons over $1.23 billion. During this period, there was a 101.8% increase in annual CTR procedures (91 130 in 2000, 183 911 in 2020). Further, annual volume of ECTR increased by 456.2%, and accounted for an increasing percentage of total CTR procedures (9.1% in 2012, 25.2% in 2020). The average adjusted Medicare reimbursement per procedure decreased by 1.5% for OCTR, and decreased by 11.6% for ECTR. In 2020, orthopedic surgeons performed 85.1% of CTR procedures. CONCLUSIONS: The volume of CTR surgeries among the Medicare population has increased from 2000 to 2020, and ECTR is accounting for a growing proportion of surgeries. When adjusted for inflation, average reimbursement has decreased, with a greater decrease among ECTR. Orthopedic surgeons perform most of such surgeries. These trends are important to assure adequate resource allocation as treating carpal tunnel becomes more common among the aging Medicare population.

Nonmarinum, Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Infections of the Upper Extremity: A Multi-Institutional Descriptive Report.

PURPOSE: We analyzed patient demographic factors involved in the development of nonmarinum, nontuberculous mycobacterial infections (NTMI) involving the upper extremity, and assessed diagnostic and prognostic values of commonly used preoperative laboratory and imaging studies, as well as factors related to recurrence of disease and patient outcomes. METHODS: Patients from 2 academic, tertiary facilities with culture-proven, nonmarinum NTMI involving the upper extremity were reviewed. Patient-related factors and clinical outcomes were extracted. The analysis was based on pathogen identification (rapid- vs slow-growing subspecies) and immune status. RESULTS: Our 76 patients had a mean age of 59 years, and 65% were male. Forty-eight percent reported an injury, and hands were frequently involved (58%). Forty-one percent were immunosuppressed (19% organ transplant recipients). The mean symptom duration prior to presentation was 203 days. The culture identification took a mean of 33 days, with 25 different species identified (subcategorized as rapid or slow growers). Seventy-seven percent had solitary lesions, with a cutaneous or subcutaneous location most common. Immunosuppressed patients were treated longer with antibiotics (243 vs 155 days in immunocompetent patients) and experienced higher rates of side effects, complications, and recurrence. All patients underwent debridement to control infection, including 4 individuals who required amputations. One-third experienced complications and/or recurrence, regardless of the organism type. CONCLUSIONS: Upper-extremity nonmarinum NTMI is often misdiagnosed, causing management delays. Early consideration in differential diagnoses of chronic, painful swelling, nodular or inflammatory lesions, or septic arthritis is crucial. Tissue biopsy with specimens for histopathology and microbiological analysis (mycobacterial smear, cultures, and broad range polymerase chain reaction) and early involvement with an infectious disease specialist are recommended. Empiric antibiotic therapy is not standard. Debridement and prolonged, directed combination antimicrobial therapy is required; however, adverse reactions are commonly encountered. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic IV.

Tendon Sheath Incision for Surgical Treatment of Trigger Finger.

Background: Open trigger finger release is an elective surgical procedure that serves as the gold standard treatment for trigger digits. The aim of this procedure is to release the A1 pulley in a setting in which the pulley is completely visible, ultimately allowing the flexor tendons that were previously impinged on to glide more easily through the tendon sheath. Although A1-or the first annular pulley-is the site of triggering in nearly all cases, alternative sites include A2, A3, and the palmar aponeurosis1. Description: Typically, the surgical procedure can be conducted in an outpatient setting and can vary in duration from a few minutes to half an hour. The surgical procedure involves the patient lying in the supine position with the operative hand positioned to the side. A small incision, ranging from 1 to 1.5 cm, is made on the volar side of the hand, just proximal to the A1 pulley in the skin crease in order to minimize scarring. Once the underlying neurovascular structures are exposed, the A1 pulley is released longitudinally at least to the level of the A2 pulley, followed by decompression of the flexor tendons that were previously impinged on. In order to confirm the release, the patient is asked to flex and extend the affected finger. The wound is irrigated and closed once the release is confirmed by both the patient and surgeon. Alternatives: Aside from an open release, trigger finger can be treated nonoperatively with use of splinting and corticosteroid injection. Alternative operative treatments include a percutaneous release, which involves the use of a needle to release the A1 pulley2. Trigger finger can initially be treated nonoperatively. If unsuccessful, surgical intervention is considered the ultimate remedy2. Rationale: Because of their efficacious nature, corticosteroid injections are indicated preoperatively, particularly in non-diabetic patients3. Splinting is often an appropriate treatment option in patients who wish to avoid a corticosteroid injection1. However, if nonoperative treatment modalities fail to resolve pain and symptoms, surgical intervention is indicated2. In comparison with a percutaneous trigger finger release, an open release provides enhanced exposure and may be safer with respect to avoiding iatrogenic neurovascular injury2. However, in a randomized controlled trial, Gilberts et al. found no difference in the rates of recurrence when comparing open versus percutaneous trigger finger release4. Expected Outcomes: With reported success rates ranging from 90% to 100%, the open release of the A1 pulley is considered a common procedure associated with minimal complications2. Complications of the procedure were assessed in a retrospective analysis of 43 patients who underwent 78 open trigger releases performed by 1 surgeon. In that study, the authors reported a minor complication rate of 28% and a major complication rate of 3%5. Specifically, the 2 major complications noted by the authors were a synovial fistula and a proximal interphalangeal joint arthrofibrosis. In a larger study that included 543 patients who underwent 795 open trigger releases, the authors reported a minor complication rate of 9.6% and major complication rate of 2.4%6. Furthermore, the most common complications involved persistent stiffness, swelling, or pain. In that analysis, the authors suggested that sedation, male gender, and general anesthesia may be associated with greater risk6. Important Tips: At the discretion of the surgeon, a longitudinal, transverse, or oblique incision is made directly on top of the tendon at the level of the metacarpophalangeal joint, which is the preferred incision site because it provides maximal accessibility to the A1 pulley.Local anesthesia is preferred because it allows the patient and surgeon to confirm the release immediately.If conducting an open trigger release on the thumb, the surgeon should identify and protect the radial digital nerve, which courses directly over the A1 pulley. Acronyms and Abbreviations: MCP = metacarpophalangeal.

Surgical approaches for proximal interphalangeal joint arthroplasty.

This annotation reviews current concepts on the three most common surgical approaches used for proximal interphalangeal joint arthroplasty: dorsal, volar, and lateral. Advantages and disadvantages of each are highlighted, and the outcomes are discussed.Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(12):1329-1333.

Does the Number of Preoperative Corticosteroid Injections Affect Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes of Trapeziectomy and Suspensionplasty?

PURPOSE: This study aimed to determine whether an increasing number of preoperative corticosteroid injections is associated with greater radiographic subsidence of the thumb metacarpal at long-term follow-up after abductor pollicis longus suspensionplasty, secondary to steroid-induced pathologic weakening of capsuloligamentous restraints surrounding the thumb carpometacarpophalangeal joint and greater extension of the lunate, but neither affect patient-reported outcomes nor revision rates. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was performed of patients who underwent primary trapeziectomy and abductor pollicis longus suspensionplasty by a single surgeon over a 10-year period. The number of preoperative corticosteroid injections in the trapeziometacarpal joint was documented, and patients were separated into 4 subgroups: 0, 1, 2, or 3 or more injections. Preoperative and final radiographs were evaluated for a change in the distance between the base of the thumb metacarpal and the distal pole of the scaphoid as a measure of thumb metacarpal subsidence and radiolunate angle as a measure of nondissociative carpal instability, which has been reported as a complication after basal joint arthroplasty. Additionally, the final patient-reported outcomes (Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand and Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation) and revision rates were also assessed. RESULTS: Of a total of 60 patients with an average age of 64 years that were included in the study, 16 (26.7%) received 0, 19 (31.7%) received 1, 12 (20%) received 2, and 13 (21.7%) received 3+ preoperative injections. The median postoperative follow-up was 92 months. The mean distance between the base of the thumb metacarpal and the distal pole of the scaphoid decreased by 2 mm, and the mean radiolunate angle increased by 4° across the entire cohort. When comparing subgroups, no differences were observed in either parameter or the final Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates no apparent detrimental effect of an increased number of preoperative corticosteroid injections on radiographic thumb metacarpal subsidence, increase in extension of radiolunate angle (nondissociative carpal instability), patient-reported outcomes, or revision rates at an average of almost 8 years after trapeziectomy and abductor pollicis longus suspensionplasty. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.

Proximal Humeral Replacement With Osteoarticular Allograft Prosthetic Composite in Failed Revision Total Elbow Arthroplasty With Marked Bone Loss.

Total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) procedures are becoming more prevalent with an associated increase in revision procedures. Revision TEA in the setting of marked bone loss poses a challenge for the treating surgeon. We present a viable surgical option for patients with extensive proximal humeral bone loss treated with proximal humerus osteoarticular allograft prosthetic composites prepared with intact rotator cuff, pectoralis, and deltoid soft tissue attachments along with a rehabilitative protocol and follow up. Revision techniques involving the use of strut allografts and allograft prosthetic composites have previously been described in the distal humerus, but none to our knowledge have been published regarding composite allograft replacement of the proximal humerus in in combination with a TEA.

Midterm Patient-Reported Outcomes in Wrist Denervation for Post-Traumatic Arthritis.

PURPOSE: To analyze patient-reported outcomes and range of motion in a cohort of patients who underwent wrist denervation for advanced wrist osteoarthritis. We hypothesized that improvements in pain and function would be seen with preserved range of motion. METHODS: Thirty patients underwent wrist denervation for symptomatic stage 1-4 scapholunate advanced collapse (SLAC) arthritis. Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation, Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score, and range of motion measurements were assessed preoperatively and at final follow-up. RESULTS: The mean follow-up duration was 47 months (range, 24-92 months). The mean age at surgery was 65 years, and 96% of the patients were men. The dominant hand was involved in 66% of cases. The SLAC grades of patients involved were as follows: 10% (n = 3) grade 1, 27% (n = 8) grade 2, 60% (n = 18) grade 3, and 3% (n = 1) grade 4. Two patients required conversion to a wrist fusion and were considered failures. In the remaining 28 patients, the mean Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation total score decreased 22 points (82.4 to 60.9) and the mean Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score decreased 8 points (32.4 to 24.8). Total arc of wrist flexion-extension showed an average 5° improvement. CONCLUSIONS: This method of wrist denervation was a viable salvage option for patients with symptomatic SLAC wrist osteoarthritis to preserve motion, decrease pain, and increase function with a low absolute failure rate at mid- to long-term follow-up. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, Level IV.

Thumb Metacarpal-Trapezoid Impingement as an Etiology of Pain After Trapeziectomy and Basal Joint Soft Tissue Arthroplasty: A Case Series.

PURPOSE: To report a poorly described etiology for pain after trapeziectomy and soft tissue basal joint arthroplasty, diagnosed with the aid of nuclear imaging. METHODS: Five patients (4 women and 1 man), average age 62 years (range, 59-65 years) presented with pain an average of 7 months (range, 2-11 months) after basal joint arthroplasty. The dominant hand was involved in all cases. Advanced imaging including 25 mCi 99mTc methylene diphosphonate bone scintigraphy and single-photon emission computed tomography (CT) showed intense tracer uptake between the base of the thumb metacarpal and residual trapezoid. Computed tomography scans confirmed abutment between these bones. The symptoms were attributed to this finding, and revision surgery consisting of excision of the trapezoid and arthrodesis of the index and middle finger carpometacarpal joints was performed. RESULTS: Mean follow-up was 40 months (range, 12-60 months). Grip strength improved from a mean of 10.5 to 23 kg, and lateral pinch strength improved from a mean of 3 to 6.75 kg. Radiographic fusion of the index finger metacarpal to capitate was confirmed in 4 of 5 patients; it was indeterminate in one patient who was completely pain-free. Radiographic fusion of long finger carpometacarpal joints was indeterminate in 3 patients. Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation pain scores improved from 35 to 6, Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation function scores from 78 to 14, and Quick-Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores from 37 to 18. CONCLUSIONS: Impingement between the base of the thumb metacarpal and remaining trapezoid should be considered a potential source of pain after trapeziectomy and soft tissue arthroplasty. Advanced imaging (bone scintigraphy and single-photon emission CT and standard CT) are helpful to confirm the diagnosis. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic V.

Comparative Accuracy of 1.5T MRI, 3T MRI, and Static Ultrasound in Diagnosis of Small Gaps in Repaired Flexor Tendons: A Cadaveric Study.

PURPOSE: We hypothesized that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) would more accurately diagnose small gaps (<6 mm) after flexor tendon repair than static ultrasound (US) and that suture artifact would negatively impair accuracy. METHODS: A laceration of the flexor digitorum profundus was created in 160 fresh-frozen cadaveric digits and randomized to either an intact repair (0-mm gap) or repairs using a locked 4-strand suture repair with either 4-0 Prolene, Ethibond, or and gaps of 2, 4,or 6 mm; or no suture in which 2-, 4-, or 6-mm gaps were created without a suture crossing the repair site. We performed 1.5T and 3T MRI and static US studies; gap widths were estimated by radiologists blinded to suture presence and true gap widths. RESULTS: The 1.5 and 3.0T MRI had a lower mean error than US for gap sizes 0 and 2 mm. All 3 modalities performed similarly for 4- and 6-mm gaps. Documentation of imaging artifact worsened error, and odds of seeing artifacts were 1.72 higher with MRI than with US. Suture did not worsen artifact nor impair accuracy for any of the 3 modalities. When no suture was used, all 3 modalities significantly overestimated the true gap. CONCLUSIONS: MRI is most accurate for small gaps less than 4 mm. Although all modalities overestimated gap sizes in specimens with a 0-mm gap (intact tendon repair), mean overestimation (<2 mm) was not clinically relevant. Ultrasound overestimated 2-mm gaps (clinically intact repairs), whereas MRIs did not. We recommend MRI for evaluation of gaps after flexor tendon repair. The 1.5T has slightly better sensitivity and specificity for distinguishing clinically intact (gap < 3 mm) from clinically impaired (gap > 3 mm) repairs than the 3T. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Accurate diagnosis of intact repairs or small gaps (<3 mm) might prevent unnecessary exploration or allow modification of rehabilitation protocols. Diagnosis of clinically relevant gaps (3-6 mm) may allow for earlier revision surgery before significant tendon retraction and adhesions develop, possibly necessitating a staged reconstruction.

Comparative Sensitivity and Specificity of Static and Dynamic High-Resolution Ultrasound in Diagnosis of Small Gaps in Repaired Flexor Tendons: A Cadaveric Study.

PURPOSE: To compare the sensitivity and specificity of high-resolution static and dynamic ultrasound (US) for diagnosing intact repairs and small, clinically relevant gaps (≥4 mm) in repaired flexor digitorum profundus tendons within zone 2 and, secondarily, to evaluate the effect of suture artifact from 3 commonly used suture types. METHODS: Eighty-eight fresh-frozen cadaveric digits (thumbs excluded) were randomized to either an intact repair (0-mm gap) or repairs using a locked 4-strand suture repair with either 4-0 Prolene, Ethibond, or FiberWire and gaps of 2, 4, or 6 mm and no suture in which 2-, 4-, or 6-mm gaps were created without a suture crossing the repair site. Gap widths were estimated by a blinded musculoskeletal ultrasonographer in static and dynamic modes. RESULTS: Both static and dynamic modalities tended to overestimate actual gap sizes. For the suture gaps, both modalities had poor sensitivity (29% static; 42% dynamic) for accurately diagnosing a clinically intact repair (<4 mm), but better specificity (83% static; 75% dynamic) for diagnosing a clinically failed repair (≥4-mm gap). Although suture presence decreased the sensitivity of gap width measurement for both modalities, no differences were seen between suture types. CONCLUSIONS: Static and dynamic US have poor sensitivity for diagnosing clinically intact repairs (gaps < 4 mm) because they typically overestimate gap size. The ability to diagnose failed repairs (gap ≥ 4 mm), based on greater specificity, is much better, but still suboptimal. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Based on a receiver operating characteristic analysis cutoff of 5 mm, if a gap of 5 mm or larger is identified with US when evaluating a zone 2 flexor digitorum profundus tendon repair, a failed repair is likely in about 80% of cases. A gap measurement of less than 5 mm may miss a high percentage of repairs that are clinically failed.

Effect of Partial and Complete Trapezoid Excision on Radiographic and Functional Results After Abductor Pollicis Longus Suspensionplasty.

PURPOSE: We hypothesized that adding complete or partial trapezoid excision is associated with greater radiographic carpal collapse and worse functional outcomes compared with a simple trapeziectomy and abductor pollicis longus suspensionplasty. METHODS: A total of 69 patients had abductor pollicis longus suspensionplasty (79 hands), 87% of whom were female, mean age 64 years. Scaphotrapezium-trapezoid arthritis noted at surgery was treated with an additional proximal trapezoid excision (PT) in 21 (27%) or complete trapezoid resection (CT) in 22 hands (28%). No trapezoid was excised in 36 hands. The primary outcome was final radiolunate (RL) extension of 15° or greater on lateral radiographs. Logistic regression (for change in RL angle) and linear regression (for continuous variables) with robust variance estimate to account for within-subject correlation (generalized estimating equation method) were used to investigate whether the trapezoid excision groups had an effect on the outcomes of interest. Models were adjusted for age and sex. RESULTS: Median follow-up was 92 months. Complete trapezoid resection had the most increase in RL angle, but PT had a higher incidence (29% vs 26%) of final RL angle of 15° or greater compared with CT. When stratified into groups with a final RL greater than or less than 15°, the former group had worse total function (Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation) and Quick-Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores. Symptomatic index metacarpal migration was seen in 4 CT and 2 PT wrists (18% and 10%, respectively) and was considered to indicate failure. CONCLUSIONS: Compared with no trapezoid excised, both PT and CT had a greater incidence of lunate extension of 15° or greater, consistent with radiographic nondissociative-dorsal intercalated carpal instability, which was associated with inferior functional scores. Symptomatic proximal collapse of the index metacarpal was seen in both CT and PT. Further studies should evaluate whether routine excision of the proximal trapezoid is necessary for scaphotrapezoid arthritis, because any disruption of the scaphotrapezoid ligament complex appears to increase risk for developing carpal instability nondissociative-dorsal intercalated carpal instability over time and may be associated with inferior functional results. Complete trapezoid excision is not recommended. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.