Use of Compressive Osseointegration Endoprostheses for Massive Bone Loss From Tumor and Failed Arthroplasty: A Viable Option in the Upper Extremity.

BACKGROUND: Endoprostheses using principles of compressive osseointegration have shown good survivorship in several studies involving the lower extremity; however, no series to our knowledge have documented the use of this technology in the management of massive bone loss in the upper limb. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: (1) What proportion of upper extremity implants using compressive osseointegration fixation principles achieved durable short-term fixation, and what were the modes of failure? (2) What surgical complications resulted from reconstruction using this technique? METHODS: A multiinstitutional retrospective review identified nine patients (five women; four men) who underwent 13 endoprosthetic replacements between 2003 and 2014 using compressive osseointegration (Compliant® Pre-stress Device [CPS]; Biomet Inc, Warsaw, IN, USA) in the upper extremity, including two proximal humeri, two humeral diaphyses, seven distal humeri, and two proximal ulna. During the early part of that period, the indication for use of a compressive prosthesis in our centers was revision of a previous tumor reconstruction (allograft-prosthetic composite or stemmed endoprosthetic reconstruction) (three patients; five implants), or revision arthroplasty with massive bone loss (three patients, four implants); more recently, indications became somewhat more permissive and included posttraumatic bone loss (one patient, one implant), primary bone sarcoma, and resections with very short remaining end segments after diaphyseal resections (two patients, three implants). Minimum followup was 24 months; one patient (one implant) was lost to followup before that time with the implant intact at 14 months and no patients have died. The mean age of the patients was 45 years (range, 21-62 years). Mean followup was 68 months (range, 24-141 months). Implant revision for any cause and for failure of the CPS mechanism was recorded. Modes of failure were categorized as soft tissue, aseptic loosening, structural, infection, and tumor progression; CPS modes of failure were defined as lack of fixation, with or without bone or implant fracture. RESULTS: Of the 12 implants accounted for beyond 2 years, six had undergone revision of any kind. Only two revisions in two patients were attributable to lack of CPS fixation at the bone-implant interface; one of the patients also had periprosthetic and implant fracture develop through the traction bar. Other modes of failure were aseptic loosening of the standard ulnar component (two patients, two implants), bushing wear (one patient; one implant) and infection resulting in two-stage exchange and free soft tissue transfer with retention of the CPS spindle (one patient, one implant). Complications for all nine patients included one transient radial nerve palsy, one ulnar nerve sensory neurapraxia, one superficial infection, and two glenohumeral subluxations, one underwent revision surgery with implantation of a constrained liner. CONCLUSIONS: A compressive osseointegration endoprosthesis is an option for very difficult revisions or sarcoma resection in the upper extremity in which the remaining segment of host bone is too short for a conventional prosthesis. However, surgeons must inform patients that these are salvage operations, and revision surgery is common. Long-term followup of more patients is necessary to further document the survivorship of these implants in the upper extremity. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, therapeutic study.

Radioulnar space available at the level of the biceps tuberosity for repaired biceps tendon: a comparison of 4 techniques.

HYPOTHESIS: It is unknown whether certain methods of distal biceps tendon repair lead to an increased propensity of impingement of the repaired tendon. The purpose of this study was to evaluate various repair techniques in a cadaveric model to determine the radioulnar space available for the repaired biceps tendons. METHODS: Nine matched pairs of quartered, fresh-frozen cadaveric arms were transected at the level of the humeral mid shaft and the distal radiocarpal joint. Distance measurements and the angular relation of the bicipital tuberosity were measured at 5 forearm pronation-supination positions. These measurements were taken under each of the following conditions: intact native biceps, resected native tendon, suture anchor fixation of the biceps, suspensory suture device fixation of the biceps, tendon repair using a tenodesis technique, and fixation of the tendon using a trough technique. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in radioulnar space available after biceps tendon repair with the forearm in a supinated position. However, when the forearm was in a neutral or pronated position, the suture anchor method consistently had the lowest biceps insertion-to-ulna distance (0.6 to 2.1 cm). All forearm positions, except full supination, showed significant differences in terms of radioulnar space available for the repaired biceps. DISCUSSION: This study shows that the space available for the biceps tendon decreases with forearm pronation after reconstruction for all repair techniques. It appears that using suture anchors to repair the biceps tendon may predispose the repaired tendon to impingement when compared with other fixation techniques.

Orthopaedic outcomes: combat and civilian trauma care.

Important advances have been made in the management of complex trauma through careful scientific analysis of outcomes. Outcomes analysis in combat extremity trauma is exemplified and highlighted by scholarly work in the treatment of catastrophic lower extremity trauma. The success of this line of research in civilian trauma is exemplified by the Lower Extremity Assessment Project (LEAP) study on the outcomes of civilian lower extremity trauma. This highly successful effort was followed by the Military Extremity Trauma Amputation/Limb Salvage (METALS) study. Current ongoing analysis of both the LEAP and METALS studies by the Major Extremity Trauma Research Consortium seeks to compare and contrast the similarities and differences of both studies and to advance evidence-based patient-centered care. The effects of psychological trauma on the injured individual underscore the global effect of severe trauma and the need for a multidisciplinary approach to trauma care. Statistical modeling is being used to analyze outcomes to further the ability to scientifically and definitively determine the best practices for patient care.

Reprioritization of research for combat casualty care.

Since the beginning of the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan more than a decade ago, much has been learned with regard to combat casualty care. Although progress has been significant, knowledge gaps still exist. The seventh Extremity War Injuries symposium, held in January 2012, reviewed the current state of knowledge and defined knowledge gaps in acute care, reconstructive care, and rehabilitative care in order to provide policymakers information on the areas in which research funding would be the most beneficial.

Partial allograft replacement of the radial head in the management of complex fracture-dislocations of the elbow.

BACKGROUND: There have been reports of total radial head allografts showing variable outcomes. This case series reports the novel use of an allograft for partial radial head replacement in the treatment of elbow fracture-dislocation. METHODS: Eight patients underwent partial radial head allograft reconstruction to restore stability for complex fracture-dislocations involving fractures of the coronoid and radial head, with collateral ligament disruption. Two patients were treated acutely. Six were referred from other centers 2 to 48 weeks after injury following failure of primary treatment. In each case, it was not possible to perform stable open reduction-internal reduction of the radial head fracture, or the fracture fragment had already been excised. A fresh-frozen partial radial head allograft was used to replace the defect and restore the joint surface. The coronoid fracture and injury to collateral ligaments were also managed surgically. Patient charts, surgical records, and radiographs were reviewed. Patients were contacted at a mean of 79 months after treatment to answer questions to determine the Mayo Elbow Performance Score and the score on the shortened version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) questionnaire. RESULTS: Clinical and radiologic reviews confirmed union of graft in all cases. None resorbed or collapsed. Three patients had resorption of the coronoid fragment resulting in poor outcomes, with one patient ultimately undergoing total elbow arthroplasty. CONCLUSION: Partial radial head allograft may be a useful alternative to radial head prosthesis in unstable fracture-dislocations in which the radial head cannot be restored fully.

Description of a technique for vacuum-assisted deep drains in the management of cavitary defects and deep infections in devastating military and civilian trauma.

BACKGROUND: Deep soft-tissue defects often present in high-energy trauma and during the surgical treatment of infection. Injuries caused by high-velocity projectiles can create deep soft-tissue defects that are challenging to manage. Persistent, deep wound cavities have been associated with infection and prolonged wound healing. This article presents a technique that marries vacuum-assisted wound closure technology with traditional drains to allow for management of deep soft-tissue cavities. METHODS: A deep drain was placed in the cavitary lesion with application of a negative-pressure wound therapy sponge in the standard fashion. The deep drain was brought into the sponge and fenestrated as to allow the sponge to evacuate the deep drain. Several illustrative cases are presented. RESULTS: Conversion of deep cavitary defects to superficial defects allowed for delayed primary or secondary closure of the wound defects without the need for increasing the size of the superficial wound to facilitate drainage. Deep infection was also successfully controlled without incurring the additional surgical soft-tissue trauma typical of standard technique. CONCLUSIONS: The use of the active deep suction decreases edema and dead space, theoretically reducing the chance of infection. It also prevents premature walling off of deeper cavities, which can occur with the use of vacuum-assisted closure therapy on superficial defects. Our method of wound management allows for the reduction of the deep cavitary defects without delaying wound closure or creating more tissue damage.

Isolated avulsion of the medial head of the triceps tendon: an anatomic study and arthroscopic repair in 2 cases.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine the area and characteristics of the triceps tendon footprint on the olecranon, with special attention to the medial head insertion. The secondary goal was to report 2 cases of isolated avulsions of the medial head of the triceps tendon treated successfully with arthroscopic repair. METHODS: Fifteen cadaveric upper extremities were examined to investigate the triceps tendon insertion, and two case reports of an arthroscopic repair technique are described. RESULTS: In 8 specimens (53%) there was a separate insertion of the medial head of the triceps tendon on the olecranon, which was deep to the long and lateral head insertions. The mean area of the medial head insertion was 44 mm(2), and the mean area of the combined long and lateral head insertions was 115 mm(2). In 7 specimens (47%) the long, lateral, and medial heads of the triceps inserted together and had a mean area of 134 mm(2). Although the 3 heads of the triceps inserted together, the medial head tendon fiber orientation was still directed deep to the long and lateral heads. At 2 years' follow-up, both patients described no pain, had better strength, and had improved Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores and Mayo Elbow Performance Scores. CONCLUSIONS: We have determined the characteristics of the distal triceps tendon footprint and the insertional orientation on the olecranon. For cases with an isolated avulsion of the medial head of the triceps tendon, an arthroscopic repair technique is described. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, anatomic study and therapeutic case series.

Precontoured parallel plate fixation of AO/OTA type C distal humerus fractures.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the clinical effectiveness of precontoured parallel plating for the management of Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA) type C distal humerus fractures. DESIGN: Retrospective case series. SETTING: Level I trauma center. PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS: Between 2001 and 2005, 37 patients with OTA type C distal humerus fractures underwent open reduction and internal fixation exclusively with the Mayo Elbow Congruent Plating system. Thirty-two patients consented to participate in the study. INTERVENTION: All patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation with a precontoured bicolumn parallel plating system. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS: Range of motion, Mayo Elbow Performance Score, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score (DASH), complication rate, and radiographic evaluation. RESULTS: At a mean of 27 months follow up, the mean arc of elbow flexion-extension motion was 97 degrees (range, 10 degrees -145 degrees ). The mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 82 points and the mean DASH score was 24 points. There were no implant failures and all distal humerus fractures healed. A total of 24 complications occurred in 17 patients (53%) with five patients (16%) having postoperative nerve injuries. CONCLUSIONS: Open reduction and internal fixation with a precontoured parallel plating system is an effective treatment method for OTA type C distal humerus fractures. Despite this, the fact that over half of the patients had a significant complication will require utmost vigilance on the part of the surgeon to avoid intraoperative complications. Patient counseling is paramount.

The macroscopic delineation of the edge of the glenoid labrum: an anatomic evaluation of an open and arthroscopic visual reference.

PURPOSE: Our purpose was to evaluate the distance from the bony edge of the glenoid to the visible (or macroscopic) demarcation at the junction of the labrum and the articular cartilage. METHODS: Ten fresh-frozen cadaveric upper extremity specimens were dissected. The shoulder was disarticulated and periarticular structures were removed, leaving the glenoid with the labrum attached. The macroscopic edge of the glenoid was then marked with a drill at the 3-, 4-, 5-, 6-, 7, 8-, and 9-o'clock positions, as defined by a clock face (right) and a reverse clock face (left). Soft tissue and cartilage were then removed, and the distance from the outer edge of the drill hole to the bony rim was measured. RESULTS: The mean distance from the bony edge in hourly intervals starting at the 3-o'clock position anteriorly and extending to the 9-o'clock position posteriorly was 4.03 mm (range, 2.1 to 5.21 mm; SD, 0.96 mm), 4.2 mm (range, 2.1 to 5.31 mm; SD, 0.97 mm), 4.51 mm (range, 3.1 to 5.2 mm; SD, 0.91 mm), 5.14 mm (range, 3.1 to 7 mm; SD, 1.38 mm), 3.24 mm (range, 1.1 to 5.2 mm; SD, 1.4 mm), 3.78 mm (range, 1 to 6 mm; SD, 1.6 mm), and 4.28 mm (range, 2.1 to 7.3 mm; SD, 1.51 mm), respectively. A trend was noted for significant differences between locations, but this did not reach statistical significance (analysis of variance, P = .086). CONCLUSIONS: The macroscopic edge of the labrum on the glenoid face does not correspond to the bony edge of the glenoid. The labrum overlaps onto the bony surface of the glenoid from a minimum of 1.6 mm to a maximum of 7.3 mm. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Our findings provide anatomic data that enhances the arthroscopist's ability to anatomically reconstruct the glenoid labrum.

Periprosthetic humeral fractures during shoulder arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: Currently, there is little information available on the treatment and outcome of intraoperative periprosthetic humeral fractures that occur during shoulder arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to report on the incidence, treatment, and outcome of, as well as the risk factors for, intraoperative periprosthetic humeral fractures. METHODS: Between 1980 and 2002, forty-five intraoperative periprosthetic humeral fractures occurred during shoulder arthroplasty at our institution. Twenty-eight fractures occurred during primary total shoulder arthroplasty, three occurred during primary hemiarthroplasty, and fourteen occurred during revision arthroplasty. Nineteen fractures involved the greater tuberosity, sixteen involved the humeral shaft, six involved the metaphysis, three involved the greater tuberosity and the humeral shaft, and one involved both the greater and lesser tuberosities. All patients were followed for a minimum of two years. At the time of the latest follow-up, outcomes were assessed, radiographs were examined, and relative risks were calculated. RESULTS: Over the twenty-two-year study period, the rate of intraoperative humeral fractures at our institution was 1.5%. All fractures healed at a mean of seventeen weeks. In the primary arthroplasty group (thirty-one patients), range of motion and pain scores improved significantly (p < 0.05) at the time of follow-up. In the revision arthroplasty group (fourteen patients), range of motion remained unchanged whereas pain scores improved significantly (p < 0.005). Transient nerve injuries occurred in six patients. Four fractures displaced postoperatively and were then treated nonoperatively; all four healed. Significant relative risks for intraoperative fracture were female sex, revision surgery, and press-fit implants (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The data from the present study suggest that although intraoperative humeral fractures are associated with a high rate of healing, there was a substantial rate of associated complications, including transient nerve injuries and fracture displacement. Significant risk factors for intraoperative fractures include female sex, revision surgery, and press-fit humeral implants.

The anatomy of the deltoid insertion.

HYPOTHESIS: The deltoid muscle is in continuity with the distal arm fascia and musculature. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten fresh-frozen upper extremity cadaveric specimens were dissected to determine the insertional anatomy of the deltoid muscle. Measurements were made with micro-calipers and acetate grid sheets. The deltoid tendon and fibrous aponeurosis was in continuity with the lateral intermuscular septum posteriorly and the lateral aspect of the brachialis and deep brachial fascia anteriorly in all ten specimens. This interconnection remained in continuity following complete release of the deltoid insertion. RESULTS: The width of the insertion of the anterior head of the deltoid was a mean of 7.3 mm, the middle averaged 4.7 mm, and the posterior averaged 7.8 mm. The mean length of the anterior insertion was 70 mm, the middle was 48.4 mm, and the posterior was 63.4 mm. The mean width of the deltoid tendon and the investing fascia at the superior margin of the insertion was 21.9 mm and at the inferior margin 13.1 mm. DISCUSSION: Deltoid muscle integrity is critical to shoulder function. The deltoid insertion, however, is often partially released during surgical approaches for internal fixation of proximal humerus fractures and shoulder arthroplasty. Partial detachment without repair as performed during surgical approaches should not result in complete loss of continuity of the deltoid insertion. CONCLUSION: Knowledge of the distal insertion and interconnections of the deltoid allows for more anatomic repair following extended releases during complex fracture fixation or revision surgery.

Classification and imaging of proximal humerus fractures.

The decision to operate and the selection of the appropriate surgical modality for proximal humerus fractures are largely based on the fracture pattern. Understanding the particular fracture pattern in each case is complicated. Most well-accepted classification systems were developed based on radiographs complemented by intraoperative findings. Three-dimensional reconstructions based on CT currently available in most institutions allow a much better understanding of complex fractures. Modern thinking about fracture classification probably should be revisited in the light of improved imaging techniques.

Projection of the glenoid center point within the glenoid vault.

Correct identification of the center point of the glenoid surface guides glenoid component placement. It is unknown whether the center point on the glenoid surface corresponds to the center of the glenoid vault at the medial extent of the glenoid prosthesis. We reviewed 20 consecutive computed tomography scans obtained preoperatively in patients with primary osteoarthritis. A glenoid center point was chosen on the glenoid surface and then projected back into the glenoid vault along the scapular axis and perpendicular to glenoid inclination. The difference from the projection of the glenoid surface center point to the center point at a 1.5-cm depth into the glenoid vault was then measured. The mean deviation of the glenoid center point at a depth of 1.5 cm from the center point at the glenoid articular surface was 1.7 mm anterior and 3.9 mm inferior. The most common deviation of the center point of the glenoid vault at the projected medial limit of the glenoid prosthesis was slightly anterior and inferior to the center point on the glenoid surface. Identifying the center of the glenoid surface coupled with alignment of the glenoid prosthesis in neutral version and anatomic inclination provides a reliable means to guide placement of glenoid components.

The distal biceps tendon: footprint and relevant clinical anatomy.

PURPOSE: There is little information in the literature describing the anatomy of the biceps tendon insertion. The purpose of this study was to map the footprint of the biceps tendon insertion on the bicipital tuberosity and to report on the relevant anatomy to assist surgeons with correct tendon orientation during surgical repair. METHODS: Fifteen fresh-frozen adult upper extremities were used in this study. The relationships between the long head of the biceps tendon, the short head of the biceps tendon, the muscle bellies, and the distal tendon orientation were examined. The length, width, and area of the biceps tendon insertion were measured. RESULTS: In all specimens examined, the biceps musculotendinous unit rotated 90 degrees externally from origin to insertion. The long head of the distal tendon was inserted onto the proximal aspect of the bicipital tuberosity, while the short head of the distal tendon was inserted onto the distal aspect of the tuberosity. The lacertus fibrosus, in all specimens, originated from the distal short head of the biceps tendon. On average, the biceps tendon insertion started 23 mm distal to the articular margin of the radial head. The average length of the biceps tendon insertion on the tuberosity was 21 mm, and the average width was 7 mm. The average total area of the biceps tendon insertion (footprint) was 108 mm(2). The average area of the long head of the biceps tendon insertion was 48 mm(2), and the average area of the short head of the biceps tendon insertion was 60 mm(2). CONCLUSIONS: Landmarks have been identified that will allow anatomic orientation of the distal biceps tendon during operative repair. The distal short head of the biceps tendon has a consistent relationship with the lacertus fibrosus and a distinct insertion on the bicipital tuberosity. The dimensions of the distal biceps tendon footprint have been determined to assist with bone tunnel or suture anchor placement during surgical repair.

Acute deep infection after surgical fixation of proximal humeral fractures.

Acute deep infection after open reduction-internal fixation of proximal humeral fractures is uncommon. Currently, there are no reported series on the outcomes of patients treated for infection after surgery for proximal humeral fractures. The purpose of this study was to review the frequency, clinical presentation, bacteriology, treatment, and outcomes of patients with such fractures complicated by acute deep infection. Between 1993 and 2003, 5 patients with acute deep infection after open reduction-internal fixation of proximal humeral fractures were identified. The medical records, laboratory data, and radiographs were examined retrospectively. The mean age at the time of infection diagnosis was 50 years (range, 33-82 years), and the mean interval from proximal humeral fracture fixation to the time of infection diagnosis was 27 days (range, 14-40 days). All patients were available for final follow-up evaluation at a mean of 6.4 years (range, 32 months to 8.3 years). Of the 5 patients, 4 (80%) went on to nonunion requiring revision surgery. Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species and Propionibacterium acnes were the most common organisms isolated. A mean of 3.3 surgical debridements were necessary for the eradication of infection. At a mean final follow-up of 6.4 years, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score averaged 53 points (range, 33-75 points) and the Simple Shoulder Test score averaged 6.2 points (range, 1-10 points). Acute deep infection after open reduction-internal fixation of proximal humeral fractures is a devastating complication. Patients should be counseled that the results of treatment of deep infection are plagued with high complication rates, poor functional outcome, and a notably high nonunion rate.

Deep infection after rotator cuff repair.

Currently, there is little information available concerning the outcome of patients with infection after rotator cuff repair. The purpose of this study was to review retrospectively the incidence, clinical presentation, bacteriology, treatment, and outcomes of patients with rotator cuff repair complicated by deep infection. Between 1975 and 2003, 39 cases of deep infection after rotator cuff repair were identified in 38 patients. At a final follow-up of 8.2 years (range, 30 months to 19.8 years), 7 patients had died and 2 had been lost to follow-up, leaving 29 for outcome evaluation. Propionibacterium acnes was the most common organism isolated, infecting 20 of 39 cases (51%). At final follow-up, mean active elevation was 120 degrees and mean external rotation was 45 degrees . The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score averaged 67 points (range, 5-100 points), and the Simple Shoulder Test score averaged 7.3 points (range, 1-12 points). The results were excellent in 7 shoulders, satisfactory in 9, and unsatisfactory in 11. The data from this study suggest that the eradication of deep infection after rotator cuff repair is possible; however, substantial functional limitations are not unusual. In addition, the treating surgeon should be aware of the high incidence of Propionibacterium and the importance of allowing a minimum of 7 days of culture to identify this organism.

Humeral head replacement for the treatment of osteoarthritis.

BACKGROUND: Humeral head replacement has been used successfully for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the shoulder for decades. The purpose of this study was to define the results of this form of treatment, the risk factors for an unsatisfactory outcome, and the rates of failure over time. METHODS: Between 1978 and 1997, sixty humeral head replacements were performed at our institution for the treatment of osteoarthritis. Five patients (seven shoulders) died less than five years postoperatively, and one patient (two shoulders) was lost to follow-up. Fifty-one humeral head replacements in forty-nine patients with a complete postoperative evaluation and operative records who had been followed for a minimum of five years (mean, 11.3 years) or until revision were included in the study. All sixty shoulders were included in the survival analysis. RESULTS: Overall, there was significant long-term pain relief (p<0.0001) as well as improvement in active abduction (p<0.0001), internal rotation (p<0.024), and external rotation (p<0.0001) following the humeral head replacement. However, moderate pain was reported in nine shoulders and severe pain, in seven. Ten of the fifty-one shoulders underwent revision surgery, which was done to treat painful glenoid arthrosis in nine of the ten. Radiographs were available for thirty-nine shoulders, and they demonstrated an increase in glenoid erosion at a mean of 10.7 years postoperatively (p<0.0001). Five shoulders had humeral periprosthetic lucent lines of 1.5 mm in thickness, and three of them had a complete line; one humeral component had shifted in position. According to a modification of the Neer result rating system, there were ten excellent results, twenty satisfactory results, and twenty-one unsatisfactory results. CONCLUSIONS: Substantial clinical improvement can occur after humeral head replacement for osteoarthritis of the shoulder, but there is a high rate of unsatisfactory results and revision surgery. The decision as to whether this is the optimal surgical procedure for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the shoulder requires careful consideration.

The anconeus flap transolecranon approach to the distal humerus.

The transolecranon approach for the treatment of distal humerus fractures and nonunions is commonly used. A complication of the standard osteotomy is denervation of the anconeus muscle, which provides dynamic stability to the lateral side of the elbow by preventing varus and posterolateral rotatory instability. This article describes the anconeus flap transolecranon (AFT) approach, which utilizes an internervous plane to preserve the anconeus muscle and a chevron-shaped osteotomy for maximal joint exposure. The approach is straightforward to perform with limited complications.