Tunnel Management in Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Current Concepts.

Bone tunnel-related complications are frequently encountered during revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Issues with tunnel positioning, enlargement, containment, and hardware interference may complicate surgery and compromise outcomes. As a result, several strategies have emerged to address these issues and optimize results. However, a systematic, unified approach to tunnel pathology in revision ACLR is lacking. The purpose of this review is to highlight the current state of the literature on bone tunnel complications and, although extensive literature on the subject is lacking, present an updated approach to the evaluation and management of tunnel-related issues in revision ACLR.

Superior Gluteal Reconstruction Results in Promising Outcomes for Massive Abductor Tendon Tears.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the 1-year outcomes of a small patient series following open gluteus medius/minimus repair with human dermal allograft incorporated into the repair construct using a double-row repair. METHODS: Data from consecutive patients undergoing a superior gluteal reconstruction for massive, irreparable abductor tendon tears with severe tendon loss and atrophy by a single fellowship trained surgeon from January 2018 to May 2019 were collected and analyzed. Baseline demographic data and magnetic resonance imaging were collected preoperatively. Clinical outcomes including Hip Outcome Score-Activities of Daily Living (HOS-ADL), HOS-Sports Subscale (HOS-SS), modified Harris hip score (mHHS), international Hip Outcome Score-12 (iHOT-12), visual analog scale (VAS) pain, and VAS satisfaction were recorded at 1-year postoperatively. RESULTS: A total of 8 patients underwent open superior gluteal reconstruction for severe hip abductor deficiency. The mean age and body mass index were 62.6 ± 7.3 years and 29.6 ± 5.3 kg/m2, respectively. The majority of patients were female (N = 7, 87.5%). Three (37.5%) patients had undergone previous endoscopic gluteus medius repair and presented for revision surgery. All patients had full-thickness tears with gluteus medius and gluteus minimus involvement. Patients were evaluated at an average of 11.5 ± 1.7 months from the initial surgical intervention and reported a mean HOS-ADL of 82.9 ± 24.3, HOS-SS of 73.2 ± 37.3, mHHS of 83.6 ± 17.1, iHOT-12 of 63.9 ± 27.4, VAS Pain of 30.0 ± 23.1, and VAS Satisfaction of 87.1 ± 17.0. There was no evidence of retears in this patient cohort as defined by physical examination findings and/or corroborating magnetic resonance imaging. CONCLUSIONS: Superior gluteal reconstruction for massive, irreparable abductor tendon tears with severe tendon loss and atrophy is a technique that demonstrates promising 1-year postoperative outcomes in both primary and revision patients. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Traumatic Leg Fractures in UEFA Football Athletes: A Matched-Cohort Analysis of Return to Play, Reinjury, Player Retention, and Performance Outcomes.

BACKGROUND: The average professional soccer team experiences 1 to 2 traumatic leg fractures per season, with unknown effects on player performance. PURPOSE: To (1) determine the rate and time to return to play (RTP) following leg fracture, (2) investigate the rate of reinjury following RTP, and (3) investigate long-term effects that lower extremity (LE) fracture may have on elite soccer player performance. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: Using publicly available records, we identified athletes sustaining a traumatic leg fracture across the 5 major European soccer leagues (English Premier League, Bundesliga, La Liga, Ligue 1, and Serie A) between 2000 and 2016. Athletes with leg fracture (femur, tibia, and/or fibula) were matched 1:2 to controls by demographic characteristics and performance metrics 1 season before the index timepoint. Investigations included the RTP rate, reinjury rate, player characteristics associated with RTP within 2 seasons, long-term player retention, performance metrics during the 4 following seasons, and subgroup analysis by player position. RESULTS: A total of 112 players with LE fracture and 224 controls were identified. Players with LE fractures were absent for a mean of 157 days (range, 24-601 days) and 21 games (range, 2-68 games). The rate of RTP within 1 season was 80%, with 4% experiencing subsequent refracture. Injured players remained active in the league at a higher rate than their uninjured counterparts. As compared with controls, injured athletes played 309 fewer total minutes (P < .05), scored 0.09 more assists per game (P < .01) 1 season after injury, and scored 0.12 more points per game 4 seasons after injury (P < .01). Defenders were most affected by an LE fracture, playing 5.24 fewer games (P < .05), 603 fewer total minutes (P < .01), and recording 0.19 more assists per 90 minutes of play as compared with controls 1 season after injury (P < .001). Attackers and midfielders demonstrated no significant difference in metrics after RTP when compared with controls. CONCLUSION: Most players sustaining an LE fracture returned to elite soccer at the same level after a significant loss of playing time, with a 4% rate of refracture. Player retention was higher for those sustaining an LE fracture versus uninjured controls. Overall, injured players did not experience a decline in performance after recovery from an LE fracture.

Arthroscopic Reduction and Internal Fixation of Tibial Eminence Fractures With Transosseous Suture Bridge Fixation.

Arthroscopic reduction-internal fixation (ARIF) is an increasingly popular option for surgical management of displaced tibial eminence fractures. Although a variety of ARIF techniques have been described, anatomic reduction and stable fixation remain challenging. As a result, complications such as malunion, nonunion, anterior instability, arthrofibrosis, and hardware issues persist. In an effort to reduce complications and improve outcomes, modern suture-based ARIF techniques have been developed. However, the optimal technique and construct remain elusive. This article presents a technique for ARIF of tibial eminence fractures using a transosseous suture bridge construct with extracortical fixation. This technique uses a commercially available suture-passage device and meniscal root repair system for accurate tunnel placement, efficient suture management, and reliable fixation.

Establishing clinically significant outcomes of the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Upper Extremity questionnaire after primary reverse total shoulder arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND AND HYPOTHESIS: Since its introduction, the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Upper Extremity (PROMIS UE) assessment has been increasingly used in shoulder arthroplasty outcome measurement. However, determination of clinically significant outcomes using the PROMIS UE has yet to be investigated following reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA). We hypothesized that we could establish clinically significant outcomes of the PROMIS UE outcome assessment in patients undergoing primary RTSA and identify significant baseline patient factors associated with achievement of these measures. METHODS: Consecutive patients undergoing primary RTSA between 2018 and 2019 who received preoperative baseline and follow-up PROMIS UE assessments at 12 months after surgery were retrospectively reviewed. Domain-specific anchor questions pertaining to pain and function assessed at 12 months after surgery were used to determine minimal clinically important difference (MCID), substantial clinical benefit (SCB), and patient acceptable symptomatic state (PASS) values for the PROMIS UE using receiver operating characteristic curve and area-under-the-curve (AUC) analysis. Univariate logistic regression analysis was then performed to identify significant patient factors associated with achieving the MCID, SCB, or PASS. RESULTS: A total of 95 patients met all inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. By use of an anchor-based method, the PASS value was 36.68 (sensitivity, 0.795; specificity, 0.765; AUC, 0.793) and the SCB value was 11.62 (sensitivity, 0.597; specificity, 1.00; AUC, 0.806). By use of a distribution-based method, the MCID value was calculated to be 4.27. Higher preoperative PROMIS UE scores were a positive predictor in achievement of the PASS (odds ratio [OR], 1.107; P = .05), whereas lower preoperative PROMIS UE scores were associated with obtaining SCB (OR, 0.787; P < .001). Greater baseline forward flexion was negatively associated with achievement of the PASS (OR, 0.986; P = .033) and MCID (OR, 0.976, P = .013). Of the patients, 83.2%, 69.5%, and 47.4% achieved the MCID, PASS, and SCB, respectively. CONCLUSION: This study defines the MCID, SCB, and PASS for the PROMIS UE outcome assessment in patients undergoing primary RTSA, of whom the majority achieved meaningful outcome improvement at 12 months after surgery. These values may be used in assessing the outcomes and extent of functional improvement following RTSA.

Overlapping Allografts Provide Superior and More Reliable Surface Topography Matching Than Oblong Allografts: A Computer-Simulated Model Study.

BACKGROUND: Osteochondral allograft transplantation is 1 treatment option for focal articular cartilage defects of the knee. Large irregular defects, which can be treated using an oblong allograft or multiple overlapping allografts, increase the procedure's technical complexity and may provide suboptimal cartilage and subchondral surface matching between donor grafts and recipient sites. PURPOSE: To quantify and compare cartilage and subchondral surface topography mismatch and cartilage step-off for oblong and overlapping allografts using a 3-dimensional simulation model. STUDY DESIGN: Controlled laboratory study. METHODS: Human cadaveric medial femoral hemicondyles (n = 12) underwent computed tomography and were segmented into cartilage and bone components using 3-dimensional reconstruction and modeling software. Segments were then exported into point-cloud models. Modeled defect sizes of 17 × 30 mm were created on each recipient hemicondyle. There were 2 types of donor allografts from each condyle utilized: overlapping and oblong. Grafts were virtually harvested and implanted to optimally align with the defect to provide minimal cartilage surface topography mismatch. Least mean squares distances were used to measure cartilage and subchondral surface topography mismatch and cartilage step-off. RESULTS: Cartilage and subchondral topography mismatch for the overlapping allograft group was 0.27 ± 0.02 mm and 0.80 ± 0.19 mm, respectively. In comparison, the oblong allograft group had significantly increased cartilage (0.62 ± 0.43 mm; P < .001) and subchondral (1.49 ± 1.10 mm; P < .001) mismatch. Cartilage step-off was also found to be significantly increased in the oblong group compared with the overlapping group (P < .001). In addition, overlapping allografts more reliably provided a significantly higher percentage of clinically acceptable (0.5- and 1-mm thresholds) cartilage surface topography matching (overlapping: 100% for both 0.5 and 1 mm; oblong: 90% for 1 mm and 56% for 0.5 mm; P < .001) and cartilage step-off (overlapping: 100% for both 0.5 and 1 mm; oblong: 86% for 1 mm and 12% for 0.5 mm; P < .001). CONCLUSION: This computer simulation study demonstrated improved topography matching and decreased cartilage step-off with overlapping osteochondral allografts compared with oblong osteochondral allografts when using grafts from donors that were not matched to the recipient condyle by size or radius of curvature. These findings suggest that overlapping allografts may be superior in treating large, irregular osteochondral defects involving the femoral condyles with regard to technique. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study suggests that overlapping allografts may provide superior articular cartilage surface topography matching compared with oblong allografts and do so in a more reliable fashion. Surgeons may consider overlapping allografts over oblong allografts because of the increased ease of topography matching during placement.

Osteochondral Allograft Transplant for Focal Cartilage Defects of the Femoral Condyles: Clinically Significant Outcomes, Failures, and Survival at a Minimum 5-Year Follow-up.

BACKGROUND: Osteochondral allograft (OCA) transplant for symptomatic focal cartilage defects in the knee has demonstrated favorable short- to midterm outcomes. However, the reoperation rate is high, and literature on mid- to long-term outcomes is limited. PURPOSE: To analyze clinically significant outcomes (CSOs), failures, and graft survival rates after OCA transplant of the femoral condyles at a minimum 5-year follow-up. STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: Review of a prospectively maintained database of 205 consecutive patients who had primary OCA transplant was performed to identify patients with a minimum of 5 years of follow-up. Outcomes including patient-reported outcomes (PROs), CSOs, complications, reoperation rate, and failures were evaluated. Failure was defined as revision cartilage procedure, conversion to knee arthroplasty, or macroscopic graft failure confirmed using second-look arthroscopy. Patient preoperative and surgical factors were assessed for their association with outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 160 patients (78.0% follow-up) underwent OCA transplant with a mean follow-up of 7.7 ± 2.7 years (range, 5.0-16.3 years). Mean age at the time of surgery was 31.9 ± 10.7 years, with a mean symptom duration of 5.8 ± 6.3 years. All mean PRO scores significantly improved, with 75.0% of patients achieving minimal clinically important difference (MCID), and 58.9% of patients achieving significant clinical benefit for the International Knee Documentation Committee score at final follow-up. The reoperation rate was 39.4% and was associated with a lower probability of achieving MCID. However, most patients undergoing reoperation did not proceed to failure at final follow-up (63.4% of total reoperations). A total of 34 (21.3%) patients had failures overall, and the 5- and 10-year survival rates were 86.2% and 81.8%, respectively. Failure was independently associated with greater body mass index, longer symptom duration, number of previous procedures, and previous failed cartilage debridement. Athletes were protected against failure. Survival rates over time were not affected by OCA site (P = .154), previous cartilage or meniscal procedure (P = .287 and P = .284, respectively), or concomitant procedures at the time of OCA transplant (P = .140). CONCLUSION: OCA transplant was associated with significant clinical improvement and durability at mid- to long-term follow-up, with 5- and 10-year survival rates of 86.2% and 81.8%, respectively. Maintenance of CSOs can be expected in the majority of patients at a mean of 7.7 years after OCA transplant. Although the reoperation rate was high (39.4%) and could have adversely affected chances of maintaining MCID, most patients did not have failure at long-term follow-up.

Regenerative Potential of Mesenchymal Stem Cells for the Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis and Chondral Defects: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating the effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on cartilage regeneration and patient-reported pain and function. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines using a PRISMA checklist. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed (2008-2019), EMBASE (2008-2019), and MEDLINE (2008-2019) were queried in July 2019 for literature reporting use of stem cells to treat knee osteoarthritis or chondral defects. Data describing administered treatment, subject population, injection type, duration of follow-up, pain and functional outcomes, and radiographic and magnetic resonance imaging findings were extracted. Risk of bias was assessed using the Downs and Black scale. Meta-analyses adjusted for random effects were performed, calculating pooled effect sizes in terms of patient-reported pain and function, cartilage quality, and cartilage volume. RESULTS: Twenty-five studies with 439 subjects were identified. There was no significant difference in pain improvement between MSC treatment and controls (pooled standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.23, P = .30). However, MSC treatment was significantly favored for functional improvement (SMD = 0.66, P < .001). There was improvement in cartilage volume after MSC treatment (SMD = 0.84, P < .001). Regarding cartilage quality, meta-analysis resulted in a small, nonsignificant effect size of 0.37 (95%, -0.03 to 0.77, P = .07). There was risk for potential bias among included studies, with 17 (68%) receiving either a grade of "poor" or "fair." CONCLUSIONS: The pooled SMD from meta-analyses showed statistically significant effects of MSC on self-reported physical function but not self-reported pain. MSCs provided functional benefit only in patients who underwent concomitant surgery. However, this must be interpreted with caution, as there was substantial variability in MSC composition and mode of delivery. MSC treatment provided significant improvement in cartilage volume but not cartilage quality. Preliminary data regarding therapeutic properties of MSC treatment suggest significant heterogeneity in the current literature, and risk of bias is not negligible. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II, Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

The incidence and pattern of iliopsoas tendinitis following hip arthroscopy.

BACKGROUND: Iliopsoas tendinitis is a known source of extra-articular hip pain and it has been shown to be a common cause of continued hip pain following total hip arthroplasty. While iliopsoas tendinitis after hip arthroscopy is a well-known phenomenon amongst hip arthroscopists, its presentation, course, and treatment has yet to be elucidated. METHODS: An IRB-approved chart review was performed of patients undergoing hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) between March 2015 and July 2017. No cases of dysplasia were included. All patients had combined cam/pincer impingement as well as labral pathology. Tendinitis patients were identified. Patient demographics, surgical data, time to onset/diagnosis of iliopsoas tendinitis, treatment (oral anti-inflammatories, corticosteroid injection, physical therapy), and resolution of symptoms were recorded. These cases were age- and sex-matched to a control group that did not develop postoperative iliopsoas tendinitis for comparison. Patient outcomes were measured with the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) and Nonarthritic Hip Score (NAHS) recorded from the preoperative and 1-year postoperative visits. RESULTS: Of 258 hip arthroscopy cases, 18 cases (7.0%) of postoperative iliopsoas tendinitis were diagnosed under high resolution ultrasound. On average, iliopsoas tendinitis was diagnosed 2.8 ± 1.8 months after surgery. There were no significant differences in age, sex, and BMI between patients that developed IP tendinitis compared to those that did not. No specific procedures were found to be significantly associated with incidence of postoperative IP tendinitis, including capsular closure.18 patients were treated with corticosteroid injection, which provided mild to moderate improvement for 5 (27.8%) patients and completely resolved symptoms for 13 patients (72.2%). Of all 18 patients with postoperative iliopsoas tendinitis confirmed by response to a diagnostic injection, 10 (55.6%) had symptoms improve within 3 months of diagnosis, 2 (11.1%) between 3 and 6 months, 4 (22.2%) between 6 and 12 months, and 2 (11.1%) after 1 year. No patients went on to have surgery for this problem. Patients with iliopsoas tendinitis had lower MHHS (p = 0.04) and NAHS (p = 0.09) scores at their 1-year postoperative visits. CONCLUSIONS: Iliopsoas tendinitis is a common source of pain following arthroscopic hip surgery and can be effectively diagnosed and treated with ultrasound-guided injection. Therefore, surgeons performing arthroscopic procedures of the hip must remain aware of and include it in their differential when encountering patients with hip flexion pain after surgery. Research should be continued to further evaluate the long-term outcomes and return to sport rates of these patients.

Prior Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Does Not Increase Surgical Time for Patients Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: Patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries and reconstruction are at an increased risk of developing osteoarthritis requiring total knee arthroplasty (TKA). There have been few studies analyzing the impact of prior ACL reconstruction (ACLR) on surgical time and perioperative complications following TKA. PURPOSE: The purpose of the current study was to compare surgical time and the rate of select early postoperative complications following TKA in patients with a history of ACLR to patients without prior ligament reconstruction. METHODS: We identified 116 patients who underwent TKA at our institution with a history of ACL reconstruction on the operative knee. These patients were propensity score matched to a control cohort of 348 patients undergoing TKA without a prior ACLR based on age, body mass index, sex, race, smoking status, surgeon, and year of surgery. Outcomes of interest for the current analysis were surgical time, incidence of postoperative wound complications, length of stay, discharge disposition, and 30-day readmission rate. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference between the ACLR and non-ACLR groups with respect to surgical time (108.23 ± 45.57 minutes vs. 102.72 ± 38.73 minutes, p = 0.205). There was also no significant difference in length of hospital stay, discharge disposition, incidence of postoperative wound complications, 30-day readmission rate, or reoperation rate. CONCLUSION: In this matched cohort analysis, we found no difference between patients undergoing TKA after ACLR and patients undergoing TKA for primary osteoarthritis with respect to perioperative complications and select postoperative outcomes, including the rate of reoperations. The current data demonstrates no significant impact of prior ACLR on the surgical time required to perform the arthroplasty.

Bone Tunnel Management in Modern Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

Bone tunnel-related issues are frequently encountered during revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Tunnel malposition, widening, and interference pose unique challenges that may complicate surgery and compromise outcomes. Preoperative planning is critical to identify and characterize bone tunnel pathology. Choice of technique, graft, and implant are influenced by numerous patientrelated and technical factors. Despite this complexity, a variety of strategies are available to help manage and navigate common bone tunnel problems. Among these include alternative techniques for reaming, bone grafting, and fixation. This review provides a modern evidence-based and practical guide to equip the orthopedic surgeon with a systematic approach to the evaluation and management of bone tunnel-related issues encountered during revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

Staged Bilateral Hip Arthroscopy Compared With a Matched Unilateral Hip Arthroscopy Group: Minimum 2-Year Follow-Up.

PURPOSE: To determine the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) and Non-Arthritic Hip Score (NAHS) at 2-year follow up in patients who underwent staged bilateral hip arthroscopy versus age-, sex-, and body mass index-matched patients who underwent unilateral hip arthroscopy. METHODS: Patients who underwent staged bilateral primary hip arthroscopy between January 2007 and December 2017 for the indication of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) with a minimum 2-year follow-up were identified. The control group comprised patients who underwent a unilateral hip arthroscopy for FAI. The mHHS and the NAHS were analyzed. RESULTS: Forty-two patients (84 hips) in the bilateral group were matched with 84 patients (84 hips) in the unilateral group. Both groups had significantly improved mHHS and NAHS when comparing preoperative scores with postoperative scores (bilateral group mHHS: 45.5 ± 15.1 to 81.7 ± 17.6, P < .0001, bilateral group NAHS: 49.5 ± 13.8 to 83.6 ± 20.0, P < .0001, unilateral group mHHS 48.5 ± 13.8 to 83.6 ± 15.9, P < .0001, unilateral group NAHS 48.8 ± 12.0 to 85.0 ± 16.6, P < .0001). The patient-acceptable symptomatic state was achieved in 57 hips (68%) in the bilateral group versus 62 hips (74%) in the unilateral group, P = .4. Patients with bilateral hip arthroscopy who had <17 months between index procedure and contralateral hip arthroscopy had significantly better mHHS and NAHS (85.5 ± 18.4 vs 75.71 ± 14.4, P = .013 for mHHS and 88.1 ± 17.1 vs 76.2 ± 22.4, P = .0074 for NAHS). CONCLUSIONS: Bilateral hip arthroscopy for the indication of FAI has improved mHHS and NAHS at 2 years of follow up compared to baseline. There was no difference in 2-year mHHS and NAHS in patients who underwent bilateral hip arthroscopy and unilateral hip arthroscopy. Patients in the bilateral hip arthroscopy group that had the contralateral surgery longer than 17 months from index procedure had lower 2 year follow up mHHS and NAHS scores than those that underwent the second surgery within 17 months of the index procedure. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Total Knee Arthroplasty Is Safe in Jehovah's Witness Patients-A 12-Year Perspective.

Despite the evolution of blood management protocols, total knee arthroplasty (TKA) occasionally requires allogeneic blood transfusion. This poses a particular challenge for Jehovah's Witnesses (JW) who believe that the Bible strictly prohibits the use of blood products. The aim of this study was to compare JW and a matched-control cohort of non-JW candidates undergoing TKA to assess the safety using modern blood management protocols. Fifty-five JW patients (63 knees) who underwent TKA at our institution between 2005 and 2017 were matched to 63 non-JW patients (63 knees). Patient demographics, intraoperative details, and postoperative complications including in-hospital complications, revisions, and 90-day readmissions were collected and compared between the groups. Additionally, subgroup analysis was performed comparing JW patients who were administered tranexamic acid (TXA) between the two groups. Baseline demographics did not vary significantly between the study cohorts. The mean follow-up was 3.1 years in both the JW and non-JW cohorts. Postoperative complications, including in-hospital complications (7.9 vs. 4.8%; p = 0.47), revision TKA (1.6 vs. 1.6%; p = 1.00), and 90-day readmission (1.6 vs. 4.8%; p = 0.31) were not significantly different between the JW and non-JW groups. Subgroup analysis demonstrated JW patients who received TXA had a significantly lower decline in postoperative hemoglobin (Hgb) (8.6 vs. 14.0%; p < 0.01). At a follow-up of up to 12 years, JW patients who underwent TKA have outcomes equivalent to non-JW patients without the need for transfusion. Our findings support that surgeons are more likely to optimize JW patients preoperatively with iron and folate supplementation. Despite these variations in preoperative optimization efforts, no significant difference with regard to Hgb or hematocrit levels was demonstrated. Level of evidence is III, retrospective observational study.

Outcomes of Total Knee Arthroplasty in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Positive Patients.

Successful management of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has lengthened the life expectancy of HIV-positive (HIV + ) patients; consequently, increasing numbers of this patient population are candidates for total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This study seeks to provide detailed results of TKA in HIV+ patients and compare them to an HIV-negative (HIV - ) cohort. We performed a multicenter retrospective case-control study comparing 25 HIV+ patients to 25 HIV- patients undergoing TKA. The analysis included a cohort and subgroup stratification based on the presence or absence of postoperative complications. Prior to TKA, all 25 patients had a documented history of HIV infection. No intraoperative complications were reported. Ninety-day postoperative complications included knee contracture (one HIV + , no HIV - , p = 0.3124), periprosthetic joint infection requiring revision (one HIV + , no HIV - , p = 0.3124), mechanical fall requiring incision and drainage (one HIV + , no HIV - , p = 0.3124), and death (one HIV + , no HIV - , p = 0.3124). The average follow-up was 18.80 months. HIV+ patients stayed in the hospital for an average of 3.8 days following surgery, which was significantly greater than HIV- patients (2.28 days; p = 0.0040). As the life expectancy for HIV+ patients improves, a greater number will be TKA candidates. This study has shown an acceptable postoperative complication risk in an HIV+ patient population undergoing TKA, albeit with a significantly increased hospital length of stay.

Outcome Trends After Hip Arthroscopy for Femoroacetabular Impingement: When Do Patients Improve?

PURPOSE: To determine when patients reach critical thresholds of clinical improvement after hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) using previously defined cutoffs for the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and patient acceptable symptomatic state (PASS) and to identify risk factors for prolonged recovery. METHODS: Consecutive patients with a diagnosis of FAI who underwent unilateral hip arthroscopy between January 2010 and January 2015 with at least 2 years of clinical follow-up were studied. The modified Harris Hip Score was collected prospectively at 6 consecutive time points. The number of patients reaching the MCID and PASS at each time point was determined. RESULTS: During the study period, 340 consecutive hip arthroscopies were performed in 316 patients with a mean final follow-up period of 50 months (range, 29-84 months). The mean modified Harris Hip Score and percentage of patients reaching the MCID and PASS increased at each time point. At 2 years, 271 patients (93%) surpassed the MCID and 212 patients (73%) achieved the PASS. Female sex, age of 40 years or older, and body mass index of 30 or greater were associated with lower rates of achieving the MCID and PASS at set time points. Patients undergoing labral repair had superior PASS rates at 3 months and beyond than patients undergoing labral debridement alone. Patients who did not achieve the PASS by 3 months were more likely to require reoperation. CONCLUSIONS: Hip arthroscopy for FAI results in increased patient-reported outcome measures at interval follow-up. Most patients reach critical thresholds of minimal and satisfactory clinical improvement. Patients who are female, older, or obese or who undergo labral debridement alone are less likely to reach these milestones at major time intervals. Patients who do not reach the PASS by 3 months are more likely to require reoperation. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Clinical Outcomes after Mini-Open Excision of Popliteal Cysts.

PURPOSE: The purpose of the study was to investigate clinical outcomes following a mini-open posterior technique. METHODS: Patients who received mini-open popliteal cyst excisions between April 1999 and April 2010 were identified. Charts were retrospectively reviewed for postoperative complications, cyst recurrence, previous aspiration, re-operation, intraoperative findings, cyst size, comorbidities, and co-surgeries. Visual Analogue Pain Scale and Rauschning's symptomatic knee criteria were collected prospectively to assess functional outcomes. RESULTS: Twenty-two legs in 21 patients were included in the study [males: 12 (57%); females: 9 (43%); age: 48.23 ± 11.74 years; BMI: 26.7 ± 4.54 kg/m2; follow-up: 4.55 ± 3.01 years]. Average cyst size was 4.16 ± 1.64 cm and were all located in the posteromedial aspect of the leg. All 22 cases had associated intra-articular pathology based on MRI, physical examination, and arthroscopy. Complications after cyst excision included: paresthesia in the distribution of the saphenous nerve (3/22, 14%), keloid formation (1/22, 4%), joint effusion requiring aspiration (1/22, 4%), and one recurrence requiring cystectomy 10 years later (4%). All incidences of paresthesia resolved. Mean visual analog pain score decreased by 6 points (p < 0.001) and Rauschning and Lindgren score decreased by two categories, from a 2.6 (category 2-3) preoperatively to 0.6 (category 0-1) postoperatively (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Mini-open popliteal cyst excision is a safe and effective technique for refractory popliteal cysts in patients who desire a decrease in pain, an increase range of motion, and improved function in knee flexion and extension. Further studies are needed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of patients over a longer duration as our one patient with a 10-year follow-up required a repeat procedure.

Capitellum Fracture Open Reduction and Internal Fixation With Headless Screws.

Partial articular fractures involving the capitellum represent an injury to the lateral column of the distal humerus. Capitellum open reduction and internal fixation restores this portion of the distal humerus articular surface and biomechanical integrity to the lateral column. This video demonstrates open reduction and internal fixation of a type I capitellar fracture with headless compression screws through an extensile lateral approach.

Total Hip Arthroplasty in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Positive Patients: A Concise Follow-Up at 10 to 14 Years.

BACKGROUND: Advancements in the management of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) now permit HIV-positive patients to have longer life spans, increasing their cumulative risk of developing an advanced degenerative joint disease, necessitating total hip arthroplasty (THA). The purpose of this study was to provide an extended follow-up on a previously published study on a cohort of HIV-positive THA recipients in an effort to confirm the safety and longevity of THA in this population. METHODS: This study is a follow-up on a previous study comprised of 41 hips in 31 HIV-positive THA recipients. At this follow-up, 5 patients from the original cohort required contralateral THA. Postoperative complications were recorded up to the patient's last follow-up date. A survivorship analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method with revision THA as the end point. RESULTS: Since the last report, 2 additional hips were revised (one for aseptic loosening and one for a periprosthetic fracture), and 5 patients underwent contralateral THA. This resulted in a total of 5 (13.8%) hips requiring revision THA at the latest follow-up. The mean follow-up interval for the original cohort and for the contralateral 5 hips was 78.9 ± 50.2 months and 54.6 ± 45.3 months, respectively. Kaplan-Meier survivorship analysis with revision THA for any reason as the end point demonstrated survivorship of 93% (2 years), 90% (5 years), and 81% (10 and 14 years) after primary THA, respectively. CONCLUSION: Our study suggests that it is possible to achieve a low incidence of postoperative infection in HIV-positive THA recipients. In addition, our study demonstrates that non-hemophiliac HIV-positive patients have comparable revision rates to previously published reports on HIV-negative patients of similar age, underscoring the clinical efficacy of highly active antiretroviral therapy.

Performance outcomes after medial ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction in Major League Baseball positional players.

BACKGROUND: We sought to determine whether professional baseball positional players who underwent medial ulnar collateral ligament (MUCL) reconstruction demonstrate decreases in performance on return to competition compared with preoperative performance metrics and their control-matched peers. METHODS: Data for 35 Major League Baseball positional players who underwent MUCL reconstruction during 31 seasons were obtained. Twenty-six players met inclusion criteria. Individual statistics for the 2 seasons immediately before injury and the 2 seasons after injury included wins above replacement (WAR), on-base plus slugging (OPS), and isolated power (ISO). Twenty-six controls matched by player position, age, plate appearances, and performance statistics were identified. RESULTS: Of the 35 athletes who underwent surgery, 7 did not return to their preinjury level of competition (return to play rate of 80%). In comparing preinjury with postinjury statistics, players exhibited a significant decrease in plate appearances, at-bats, and WAR 2 seasons after injury but did not demonstrate declines in WAR 1 season after injury. Compared with matched controls, athletes who underwent MUCL reconstruction did not demonstrate significant decline in statistical performance, including OPS, WAR, and ISO, after return to play from surgery. Of all positional players, catchers undergoing surgery demonstrated lowest rates of return to play (56%) along with statistically significant decreases in home run rate, runs batted in, and ISO. CONCLUSION: Major League Baseball positional players undergoing MUCL reconstruction can reasonably expect to return to their preinjury level of competition and performance after surgery compared with their peers. Positional players return to play at a rate comparable to that of pitchers; catchers may experience more difficultly in returning to preinjury levels of play.

Closed-Loop Double Endobutton Technique for Repair of Unstable Distal Clavicle Fractures.

BACKGROUND: Displaced fractures of the distal clavicle are inherently unstable and lead to nonunion in a high percentage of cases. The optimal surgical management remains controversial. HYPOTHESIS: Indirect osteosynthesis with a closed-loop double endobutton construct would result in reliable fracture union and obviate the need for additional surgery. STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: Eight patients with an acute unstable Neer type IIB distal clavicle fracture were treated with a closed-loop double endobutton implant. Mean follow-up averaged 3.4 years (range, 1-9 years). Two patients were lost to follow-up. The remaining 6 patients underwent a detailed functional and radiologic evaluation. RESULTS: Definitive fracture healing was achieved in all patients. There were no complications, and no patients required additional surgery related to the index procedure. The mean Constant score was 97 at final follow-up. CONCLUSION: The closed-loop double endobutton technique was reliable and effective in achieving fracture union in all patients with unstable Neer type IIB fractures of the distal clavicle. This technique obviates the need for late hardware removal that is often necessary when direct osteosynthesis is used and avoids potential complications associated with coracoclavicular cerclage constructs that require knot fixation.