Cemented all polyethylene tibial insert unicompartimental knee arthroplasty: a long term follow-up study.

UNLABELLED: Unicompartimental knee arthroplasty outcome is sometimes compared to total knee arthroplasty but various implant parameters might greatly influence this outcome. The objectives of this study were to report the results of a consecutive series of 172 all-polyethylene unicompartmental knee arthroplasties (UKAs) and to detail possible factors of success and failure. HYPOTHESIS: It is possible to outline implant and technique factors determining success or failure in unicompartimental knee arthroplasty. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred seventy-two HLS-type cemented resurfacing UKAs, with the femoral implant made of chrome-cobalt and the tibial implant tibial entirely in polyethylene (without anchorage studs) were consecutively implanted between 1988 and 2004 in 134 patients (111 females and 23 males) in our center according to the indications established in 1988, using the same technique for each surgery. The patients' mean age was 72.2 years (range, 25-90 years). The review rate was 83.7% (144 UKAs), with a mean follow-up of 62.3 months (range, 24-160 months). The series included 84 medial UKAs and 60 lateral UKAs. The clinical data were analyzed using the IKS criteria and the patients had a complete radiological evaluation before surgery and at the last follow-up. RESULTS: The rate of satisfied or very satisfied patients was 97.2%. No pain or slight pain was found in 81% of the cases. The mean flexion was 133 degrees (range, 85-150 degrees). The mean knee score varied from 63.6 before surgery to 91.5 (90.4 for medial UKAs and 92.9 for lateral UKAs) and the function score from 63.6 to 83.8 (84.7 for medial UKAs and 82.6 for lateral UKAs). The mean range of motion was 133 degrees (range, 85-150 degrees), better than the medial UKAs for osteonecrosis. The mean residual deformity was 4 degrees varus for the medial UKAs and 2 degrees valgus for the lateral UKAs. A radiolucency was found in 23% of the cases (20% tibial and 3% femoral), nonprogressive in all cases. In 87.2% of the cases, the opposite femorotibial compartment remained radiologically normal. No progression to osteoarthritis in the femoropatellar joint required additional surgery. Sixteen patients required revision surgery: in six cases, the implant was removed and a total prosthesis implanted (one late infection, one case of involvement of the opposite compartment, and four cases of tibial component loosening). In the other cases, one tibial baseplate was changed, five arthroscopies were done, and four unicompartmental knee replacements were done on the opposite compartment. The Kaplan-Meier survival rate (taking into account the revisions with implant change) was 95.6. The results of this series were very satisfactory and were similar to recent series in the world literature that showed survival rates between 90 and 98% at 10 years, rates that are equivalent to those found for total knee replacements. The mean flexion range of motion found was higher than the majority of other recent series, probably because of the precise patient selection in the present study, a minimally invasive approach, and the femoral implant design with an ascending condylar posterior cut. The deterioration of the contralateral compartment is frequently reported, but was perhaps prevented by the absence of overcorrection and patient selection. In this series, none of the UKAs was revised for wear. We explain this by the systematic preservation of a moderate undercorrection, particularly for medial UKAs, the quality of the polyethylene, and a selection based on patient weight and age. CONCLUSIONS: The option of an all-polyethylene tibial implant, with minimal bone cuts (femoral resurfacing), makes excellent long-term results possible.

[Arthroscopy of the knee after unicompartmental arthroplasty]. / Arthroscopie après prothèse unicompartimentale du genou.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Knee pain can be a problem after unicompartmental arthroplasty, compromising the long-term outcome. Arthroscopy may be useful to treat some of the causes such as cement extrusion, fibrous interposition between prosthetic elements, meniscal regeneration, hypertrophic synovitis, or arthroscopic degeneration. We evaluated the results of these procedures. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Seven patients, mean age of 75 years (range 70-79), underwent knee arthroscopy. These patients were among a series of 214 unicompartmental knee prostheses implanted from 1988 to 2005. Arthroscopy was undertaken because of persistent pain after prosthesis implantation. Repeated physical examinations, X-rays and laboratory work-ups were negative for infection or mechanical anomaly. Medical treatment was attempted. The delay before recourse to arthroscopy was 16.3 months (range 9-36 months). The series was composed of five women and two men. RESULTS: Arthroscopy after unicompartmental prosthesis enabled the discovery of chondral, meniscal, and synovial lesions which had not been diagnosed with the usual imaging and laboratory tests. Meniscal regeneration, neomeniscus, and fibrous interpositions were observed. Biopsies were obtained. The arthroscopic procedures performed were: regularization of degenerative contralateral menisci, resection of neomenisci, and synovectomy. Arthroscopic treatment by washout shaving of the cartilage lesions and regularization of the meniscal lesions provided good results. Outcome was scored excellent or good in five knees, and insufficient in two due to progressive degeneration. For one of these two knees, the non-prosthesis femorotibial compartment progressed to overt degeneration. The IKS knee score improved 13 points in the seven patients and the function score 20 points at one to five years follow-up. DISCUSSION: Arthroscopy after unicompartmental prosthesis for knee pain can give good results for unexplained pain, both in terms of diagnosis and in terms of etiological treatment. In certain knees, diagnostic arthroscopy can enable identification of the cause of pain after unicompartmental prosthesis. Therapeutic arthroscopy avoids repeated arthrotomy and shortens recovery time.

[Confrontation of the radiographic preoperative planning with the postoperative data for uncemented total hip arthroplasty]. / Confrontation de la planification radiographique préopératoire et des données postopératoires lors de la mise en place des prothèses totales de hanche non cimentées.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: For hip prosthesis surgery, the challenge is to obtain optimal function of the instrumented hip but also to eliminate any limb length discrepancy, correct the femur offset and guarantee the center of rotation of the hip joint. Preoperative planning for total hip arthroplasty (THA) enables determination of the appropriate length for the prosthetic neck and the size and eventually the type of implants to use. From a prospective series of 86 patients who underwent first-intention THA for implantation of a noncemented prosthesis, we studied the precision of the outcome as function of the preoperative planning. We also ascertained whether the preoperative planning was sufficient to provide the measurements necessary for correct implant position. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We analyzed a prospective series of patients who underwent first-intention THA from January 2004 through January 2006. To be eligible for inclusion, patients could not have a THA of the contralateral hip. The series was composed of 58 females and 28 males, mean age 70.2 years (range 45-93). The reasons for THA were primary degenerative disease (n=76) and aseptic osteonecrosis (n=10). The contalateral hip was intact and free of osteoarthritis with an anatomic presentation considered to be normal. The standard X-ray protocol included an anteroposterior view of the pelvis in the upright position and 10 degrees internal rotation obtained preoperatively and three months postoperatively. All radiographic measurements were made by the same investigator using a manual nondigitalized technique. We compared planning parameters (pivot size and type, length of the neck, and size of the cup) with the final outcome in order to determine the compliance with the preoperative planning. All operations were performed in the lateral supine position under general anesthesia and by the same surgeon. The posterolateral Moore approach was used. All implants were press fit without cement, both for the cup and for the femoral piece. RESULTS: All planning parameters selected for study (offset, size of the head and the cup, length of the neck) were available for 32 hips, giving an overall conformity of 37%. The length of the neck was as planned in 75% of hips, the size of the cup in 62% and the size of the femoral stem in 64%. The offset defined preoperatively was never changed during the operation. Ideal implantation (+/- 5mm for all criteria selected for study) was obtained in 60% of hips; the height of the center of rotation was reproduced in 81% and the lateralization in 84%. Femur lateralization was reproduced in 75% of the hips and hip offset in 66%. Leg length discrepancy was avoided in 85% of the patients. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Preoperative planning reliably predicts the final offset of the implanted femoral stem. It is more difficult to predict the size of a press fit cup but in our experience the difference does not greatly affect restitution of the hip anatomy. We readily changed the length of the neck during the operation if necessary and have found that the leg length has been better with this approach. This leads to the observation that all of the planning parameters are not fully accurate because of the magnification effect, anatomic conditions, or possible defective execution. While the overall rate of conformity was low, looking at the results for each element separately provided a useful element for each phase of the operation. We recommend planning a medium length neck so it can be easily changed during the operation. The availability of offset measurements is particularly important to control hip lateralization and leg length. Current advances in computer-assisted surgery should be helpful in improving the imperfections of preoperative planning.

[Surgical site infection after total knee arthroplasty: a monocenter analysis of 923 first-intention implantations]. / Infection du site opératoire après arthroplastie totale de genou.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: We report the results of a retrospective analysis of 923 cases of first-intention total knee arthroplasties. The objective was to determine retrospectively the rate of surgical site infections, including all infections diagnosed during the first year, and to search for risk factors. We also wanted to present our surveillance system planned for a 10-year period. MATERIAL AND METHODS: From January 1994 to January 2004, first-intention total knee arthroplasty (TKA) was performed on 999 knees. HLS prostheses were implanted. At minimum 12 months, follow-up data was complete for 923 implants which constituted the study group. Female gender predominated (72%). Mean patient was 71 years (range 26-93). Anterior surgery was performed for 25% of the knees. Etiologies were osteoarthritis (87.5%), and rheumatoid polyarthritis (6.9%). Cefazolin was used for systematic preoperative (one injection) and postoperative (48 hr) antibiotic proxphylaxis. Vancomycin was used for patients with a contraindication for cefazolin. Information was collected from two sources: computerized consultation charts for all follow-up visits completed prospectively since 1995 et data collected by the Hygiene and Epidemiology Unit during the year following implantation. Data on surgical site infections was collected from the hospitalization files, outpatient files and control visits. Each case of infection was validated at an annual interdisciplinary meeting. We retained for analysis deep infections requiring revision surgery with identification of the causal agent on the intraoperative samples. We identified a subgroup of infections occurring during the first postoperative year, the delay generally retained for surgical site infections. RESULTS: Twenty surgical site infections after TKA were identified during the 10-year surveillance period (2.1%). Mean follow-up was 43 months (range 12-123 months, median 37 months). The rate of surgical site infections occurring during the first postoperative year was 1.4%. Eighty-percent of the infections (n=16) occurred within the first two postoperative months. Two infections were diagnosed two to five years after surgery and two others more than five years after surgery due to hematogenous contamination. All of the observed infections involved a single causal germ. Agents identified were: Gram+ (90%) and Gram- (10%), with a clear predominance for Staphylococcus aureus (n=9). Infections developed 2.1-fold more often in patients with an inflammatory disease (rheumatoid polyarthritis). Age and body mass index did not differ between patients with and without surgical site infection. CONCLUSION: The analysis of our series demonstrated the difficulties in conducting long-term surveillance.

[A comparison of all-polyethylene and metal-backed tibial components in total knee arthroplasty]. / Comparaison entre embase tibiale métallique et plateau tout polyéthylène dans la prothèse totale de genou.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: The purpose of our study was to compare the clinical, functional and radiological results of two types of tibial components for the same total knee prosthesis (posterior stabilized HLS), all-polyethylene (group A) and metal-backed (group B), in order to answer the following question: does use of an all-polyethylene piece affect mid-term outcome of total knee arthroplasty (TKA)? MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a retrospective comparative analysis of a single-center non-randomized consecutive series of 169 patients with an all-polyethylene posterior stabilized cemented gliding TKA. This series was matched with another retrospective series of 169 posterior stabilized cemented TKA with a metal-backed tibial piece. Matching factors were age, gender, etiology, and follow-up. The two series were extracted from our database which included all patients who underwent surgery for a TKA in the same institution (Lyon Civil Hospices) performed by one of the authors (PN) or under his responsibility between 1987 and 1996 for group A (all-poly) and between 1987 and 1997 for group B (metal-backed). Mean follow-up was 66 months. The IKS scores and radiological findings were recorded. RESULTS: In group A, 96% of patients were satisfied, 93% in group B. The IKS knee score for group A was 89 +/- 10.8 and 88.3 +/- 11.9 for group B. The function score was 68 +/- 23.7 in group A and 71 +/- 24 in group B. Mean flexion was 113 degrees for both groups. Non-progressive lucent lines were noted in 27 cases in group A and 23 in group B. Revision TKA was performed for 18 knees in group A, including six with implant replacement (three of them for infection). In group B, there were ten revisions, seven with implant replacement including one with infection and three without implant replacement. The 10-year survival was 94.5% in group A and 93.64% in group B. There was no significant difference in the function and knee scores, the presence of lucent lines, and the number of implant replacements between group A and group B (p>0.05). DISCUSSION: This study was unable to demonstrate any superiority in clinical and radiological results for TKA between the all-polyethylene and metal-backed options at five years follow-up.

[Factors affecting reliability of TT-TG measurements before and after medialization: A CT-scan study]. / Facteurs d'erreur de la mesure per et postopératoire de la médialisation de la tubérosité tibiale antérieure.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the practical application of computed tomography (CT) measurements of the TT-TG (tibial tuberosity--trochlear groove) distance in patients undergoing surgery for patellar instability. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We reviewed retrospectively 42 patients (30 women, 12 men) who underwent surgery for patellar instability between 1989 and 2002. Objective evidence of unilateral instability was present in 36 patients and of bilateral instability in 6. Pre- and postoperative CT-scans of both knees were examined for each patient to measure the TT-TG distance for both knees (n = 48 knees). We also studied the difference in two consecutive TT-TG measurements made on 36 non operated knees. For the 48 operated knees, we compared the CT measurement of medialization (difference between the pre- and postoperative TT-TG) and the measurement made intraoperatively. RESULTS: For the 36 non-operated knees, the mean difference between two consecutive TT-TG measurements was 3.2 mm (range 0-13 mm). This difference was significant. For the 48 operated knees, medialization measured on the CT-scan was 8.6 mm on average. Medialization effectively measured intraoperatively was 6.9 mm on average for the same series of knees. Comparing these two types of measurement, the difference expressed in absolute value was 4.6 mm (range 0-20 mm). This corresponded to a 67% difference (4.6/6.9) for the TT-TG measurement compared with surgically performed medialization. DISCUSSION: For some authors, preoperative measurement of the TT-TG distance remains a useful tool for establishing therapeutic choices for patellar instability. It must be recalled however that the measurement error is to the order of 3.25 mm. Use of the TT-TG for postoperative assessment is however a much more difficult technique since the anatomic landmarks have been modified by surgery. A rigorously applied standard radiographic protocol is required. The surgeon can then conduct a critical analysis of the landmarks retained, the slices used and the values obtained.

[Surgical management of pigmented villonodular synovitis of the knee: Retrospective analysis of 28 cases]. / Prise en charge de la synovite villonodulaire hémopigmentée du genou et de ses récidives: à partir d'une série rétrospective de 28 cas.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: The objective of this retrospective study was to analyze clinical observations in pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) of the knee as well as response to treatment in order to better define the diagnostic approach and surgical treatment and follow-up of this rare benign proliferative disease of the synovial observed primarily in the knee joint. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty-eight patients (13 men and 15 women) were treated for PVNS in our unit between 1996 and 2004. Twenty patients had diffuse disease and eight localized disease. In the localized forms, symptoms mimicked those provoked by intra-articular foreign bodies or meniscal tears (n = 6) and had been present for 14 months on average at first consultation. Mean age at treatment onset was 40 years (range 20-62). Arthroscopic or open surgery was used for resection. In the diffuse forms, symptoms had begun 15 months on average before first consultation and were mainly spontaneous hemarthrosis or diffuse non-specific knee pain. Mean age at treatment onset was 38 years (range 15-59). Bone lesions were observed in four patients. Synoviorthesis or surgical synovectomy were performed. Mean follow-up was 97 months (range 12-309). Outcome was compared between the different aspects of localized and diffuse PVNS and treatment modalities. RESULTS: In the localized forms, there were no complications after surgical treatment and there were no cases of recurrence (one surgical revision at four months following incomplete resection). For the diffuse forms, the cumulative recurrence rate was 50%. Mean time to recurrence was 37 months. Three patients developed a stiff knee after open synovectomy. Surgical treatment was required in four patients seen late after development of bony lesions (total knee arthroplasty in three). Clinical outcome was good with a gain in knee flexion. DISCUSSION: MRI is essential for the topographic diagnosis and to guide surgical treatment. In severe or advanced primary diffuse disease or in the event of local recurrence, adjuvant synoviorthesis can be proposed four to eight weeks after initial surgery. The risk of recurrence for diffuse forms warrants an annual MRI for the first four years.

The evolution of osteoarthritis in 103 patients with ACL reconstruction at 17 years follow-up.

AIM: To evaluate the functional and radiological outcome of a bone-tendon-bone anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, at long-term follow-up. METHODS: A retrospective study of 148 patients, of which 103 were available for long-term follow-up. Complete functional and radiological evaluation (International Knee Documentation Committee scale) were performed in 89 out of the 103 patients [Anderson AF. Rating scales. In: Fu FH, Harner CD, Vince KG, (Eds.). Knee Surgery, Baltimore, Williams and Wilkins vol. 1, 1994; 12, pp. 275-296]. RESULTS: The mean follow-up time was 17.4 years. Subjectively, 88% of the patients were very satisfied or satisfied. According to the IKDC score 55% had type A symptoms, 29% type B, 12% type C, and 4% type D. The IKDC ligament evaluation showed 14.9% type A, 44.8% type B, 35.8% type C, and 4.5% type D. At the review 22.7% had a narrowing <50% (C) and 4.7% a narrowing >50% (D). Onset of osteoarthritis showed an association with the status of the medial meniscus. Knees with a preserved (healthy or sutured) medial meniscus had a significantly (p < 0.05) better radiological outcome. Among these, 9% had a joint space narrowing <50% (C) and 2% had a narrowing >50% (D). Medial meniscectomy, residual laxity, and femoral chondral defects were associated with osteoarthritis. CONCLUSION: The outcome of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction plus extra-articular tenodesis is good in the very long term, particularly in knees with a preserved medial meniscus.

[Morbidity and reliability of total hip implants positioning using the posterior minimally invasive approach: a consecutive series of 100 cases]. / Morbidité et fiabilité de la mise en place d'une prothèse totale de hanche par voie d'abord postérieure réduite: à propos d'une série prospective de 100 cas.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: We wanted to determine whether the minimally invasive posterior approach for total hip arthroplasty leads to defective implant positioning or specific complications. MATERIAL AND METHODS: One hundred total hip arthroplasties were performed in 98 patients via the posterior minimally invasive approach using a specific instrumentation between June 2003 and January 2004. All operations were performed by the same surgeon. The series included 59 men. Mean patient age was 61 years (range 25-83) and the mean body mass index as 26.1 kg/cm2 (14.1-40.7). RESULTS: Mean length of the incision was 65 mm (range 45-80 mm). Mean operative blood loss was 393 ml. The VAS decreased from 2.6 on day 1 to 1.0 on day 5. The Harris score rose from 54.5 preoperatively to 85.6 six weeks postop. Mean cup abduction was 43.6 degrees and mean anteversion 16.4 degrees . The center of the hip was restituted within 5 mm in 91% of hips. Stem alignment was 0.8 degrees varus. The femoral offset and the overall hip offset were restituted within 10 mm in 88% of hips. There were no leg length discrepancies greater than 15 mm. Two patients required in addition cup fixation intraoperatively due to acetabular fracture and cup instability. There was one vertical fissuration at the lower end of the stem on one postoperative x-ray. There were no infections nor vascular or neurological lesions. Early dislocation occurred in one 78-year-old patient. There were no revisions for complications. DISCUSSION: Total hip prosthesis implanted via the minimally invasive posterior approach is a difficult operation. Despite the use of specific instruments adapted to this limited approach, the method appear to be safe and to provide reliable results. If the incision has to be widened in a given patient, use of a familiar approach would be advisable. Experience and use of specific instruments enables proposing this technique for the majority of first intention total hip arthroplasties.

Anterior cruciate reconstruction combined with valgus upper tibial osteotomy: 12 years follow-up.

A retrospective review of 29 patients (30 knees) was carried out who had previously undergone a single-stage combined ACL reconstruction with valgus upper tibial osteotomy for chronic ACL rupture coupled with early medial tibio-femoral arthritis. Of the 30 knees, 19 (63%) had had a previous medial meniscectomy. Major complications occurred in two knees resulting in stiffness. At a mean of 12 years follow-up (6-16 years) only five knees (17%) had progressed one arthritis grade. Fourteen patients (47%) returned to intensive sports, and a further 11 (37%) played moderate sports. The mean difference in anterior tibial translation with the opposite normal knee was 3 mm at review. It was concluded that the combined operation has a low morbidity, controls anterior laxity, allows many patients to return to sports, and does not result in a rapid progression of osteoarthritis.

[Subjective evaluation of surgical treatment for patellar instability]. / Evaluation subjective des résultats du traitement chirurgical des instabilités rotuliennes.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: We analyzed functional outcome after surgical treatment for patellar instability. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study included 130 patients (174 knees) treated between 1988 and 1999. Minimum follow-up after surgery was two Years, mean five years (range 24-152 months). The IKDC 1999 subjective evaluation chart was used. This chart has ten items to establish level of sports activity and functional status of the knee for daily life activities. One hundred ten patients (84.5%) responded to the questionnaire. RESULTS: Eighty-eight patients were seen for clinical assessment and 22 were questioned by telephone: 104 patients (94.5%) were satisfied or very satisfied, five (4.5%) were dissatisfied, and one was disappointed. We evaluated results on the basis of pain (37.6% with climate-related pain or discomfort), residual effusion, and sensation of blocked knee (15.8%), as well as daily activities (68% with discomfort when kneeling), and sports activities (with level of activity). DISCUSSION: The patients' subjective assessment showed that surgical treatment with medialization and/or lowering of the anterior tibial tuberosity is effective with a good or excellent rate of satisfaction. The quality of these results was directly related to careful individualization of the lesions with systematic analysis of factors leading to patellar instability (trochlear dysplasia, patellar height, quadriceps dysplasia, TA-GT measures, length of the patellar tendon).

[Knee para-articular flexion and extension osteotomies in adults]. / Kniegelenknahe Flexions- und Extensionsosteotomien beim Erwachsenen.

The present review analyzes the rare indications for sagittal knee osteotomies either for some complex cases of capsular and ligamentous laxities in combination with or without bony deformities in the sagittal plane. A thorough clinical and radiological analysis of the patients' knees is mandatory. We routinely recommend lateral standing X-rays to assess not only the bony structures, but also an abnormal knee laxity in the sagittal plane. We present different surgical options and preliminary results of these technically demanding procedures.

[Study of the patellar apex in objective patellar dislocation]. / Etude de la pointe de la rotule dans l'instabilité rotulienne objective.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: The purpose of this work was to study the morphology of the patella in search of dysplasia typical of objective patellar dislocation. MATERIAL AND METHODS: One hundred forty patients (190 knees), 80 women and 60 men, who underwent surgery between 1988 and 1999 were included in this study. Mean age was 22.6 years (range 13-47). Patellar morphology was analyzed on the preoperative lateral x-rays (n=190) taken at 30 degrees flexion. The apex of the patella was measured as well as the length of the patellar tendon. The width of the patella was measured on the computed tomography scan (n=158). For 64 knees, magnetic resonance images of the patella were available on which the length and width of the patella, the articular surface, and the patellar tendon were measured. Ninety contralateral knees were symptom free and x-rays were available for 67. RESULTS: According to the Grelsamer classification, 80% of the patellae presented a normal apex. The length of the patellar apex was significantly shorter when the patellar ligament was longer. Using the Wiberg classification, men had more dysplasic patellae (grade C) (p=0.007). There was also a correlation between the Wiberg classification and the Maldague classification. The length of the medial border of the patella and the patellar angle were 2 factors directly related to the Wiberg classification. Mean width of the patella was 39.1 mm (computed tomography measurements). The mean length of the patellar tendon was 53.8 on the magnetic resonance images with a mean articular surface measuring 30.8 mm, a mean patellar length measuring 40.6 mm, and a mean width measuring 38.7 mm. There was no correlation between trochlear dysplasia and patellar morphology. DISCUSSION: There is little data in the literature concerning patellar morphology since Wiberg's work in 1941. The hypothesis of patellar dysplasia rather than trochlear dyplasia, the principal factor involved in objective patellar dislocation, has not been explored extensively. The presence of a hypoplasic medial border, Wiberg grade C, or a short patellar apex suggests that a particular patellar morphotype would be involved in objective patellar dislocation.

[Arthroscopic reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament]. / Greffe isolée du ligament croisé antérieur sous contrôle arthroscopique avec un transplant os-tendon-os.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: We report a retrospective series of 83 patients (86 knees) who underwent reconstruction surgery for chronic anterior knee laxity. The purpose of this study was to analyze mid-term results and assess prognosis factors. MATERIAL AND METHODS: All patients underwent artrhoscopic reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament using a central one-third patellar tendon graft. Full follow-up data were available for 51 patients (52 knees) and partial data for 24 others (25 knees). Eight patients (9 knees) were lost to follow-up. The IKDC criteria were used to analyze outcome at a mean 6 years post-surgery. RESULTS: Graft failure was observed in 5 knees and a graft tears after a new sprain was seen at 3 years. The patients were satisfied or very satisfied in 88.5% of the cases. The Trillat-Lachman test revealed a persistent dampened brake in 5 knees and a frank click in 4 (7.7%). Complete movement was recovered in all knees excepting 2 exhibiting persistent flexion. Residual laxity (active Lachman test) was 5 mm in 81.5% of the cases, between 6 and 10 mm in 17%, and greater than 10 mm in only 1 case (2.5%). IKDC scores were A=25%, B=50%, C=21% and D=4%. Forty-two patients (61%) returned to their sports activities and 9 of the 12 high-level athletes resumed competition at the same level as preoperatively. Arthroscopy enabled a well- or very well-positioned femoral tunnel in 88% of the cases, conditioning final IKDC outcome (p<0.02). There was a correlation between the meniscal status and residual laxity. DISCUSSION: This study demonstrated a high proportion (21%) of patients with an incomplete repair (21% IKDC class C) with a residual laxity greater than 5 mm and a late hard brake. Simple patellar tendon graft provided insufficient repair of the anterior cruciate ligament. The subjective outcome was better than the objective outcome since 88.5% of the patients were satisfied or very satisfied (patients seen at last follow-up or contacted by telephone). Good objective outcome was correlated with good femoral position of the transplant and preservation of the meniscus. Failures were explained by poor position of the transplant, long-standing laxity, and renewal of sports activities too early. CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic repair of the anterior cruciate ligament is a reliable procedure, but as failures are observed, indications should take into consideration the type of laxity and the status of the meniscus. For unique anterior laxity, the central one-third patellar tendon graft gives good results. For advanced anterior laxity, augmentation with an extra-articular lateral tenodesis would be necessary.

[Seventeen year outcome after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with a intact or repaired medial meniscus]. / Devenir à 17 ans de recul des ligamentoplasties du ligament croisé antérieur avec ménisque interne sain ou suturé

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Ten-year outcome of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction was previously reported (1992-1993) for 148 patients who had ACL free grafts associated with extra-articular tenodesis. In this retrospective study, we examined the functional and radiological changes observed 17 years after surgery in patients whose menisci were intact or repaired at ACL reconstruction (46 cases). These patients were operated on between 1978 and 1983. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Between January and April 1999, 28 patients were reviewed clinically and radiographically. Nine other patients responded to a questionnaire and three of them sent their x-rays. Two patients had died since the last review and 7 were lost to follow-up. Mean age at follow-up was 41 years. The IKDC classification was A 18.5%, B 51%, C 22.2%, D 7.4% in 26 patients reviewed with the passive radiological Lachman. At subjective analysis (n=37), 70% of the patients were very satisfied and 27% were satisfied. At radiological analysis (n=31), the AP or lateral single-limb stance views and the AP two-limb weight bearing views at 45% flexion demonstrated preosteoarthritis in 22% and osteoarthritis in 3%. Residual anterior tibial translation was the same at 11 years and 17 years follow-up. DISCUSSION: This study clearly demonstrates that ACL reconstruction associated with extra-articular tenodesis can provide good functional and radiological results at 17 years mean follow-up for patients with preserved (sound or sutured) menisci. The status of the medial meniscus at long-term follow-up appears to be the key feature determining the low rate of degenerative changes.

Results at 11.5 years of a series of 376 posterior stabilized HLS1 total knee replacements. Survivorship analysis, and risk factors for failure.

Of 376 cemented posterior stabilized HLS1 TKRs inserted in 329 patients (mean age 70) between 1984 and 1988, information was available on 306 (81.4%) at the third follow-up in 1998: 118 patients deceased; 163 followed up clinically (Knee Society score) and radiographically; 25 revised (15 infections; 10 mechanical failures). At a mean follow-up of 11.5 years, the mean pain score was 43/50, and the mean ROM score 21/25 (both unchanged since 1989). The function score had declined linearly, from 70/100 in 1989 to 60/100 in 1998. Forty percent had tibial radiolucencies correlating with the extent of preoperative bone wear. Polyethylene wear (seen in 35% of knees) was always < 3 mm. The implant survival rate (infections included) was 93.7% (+/- 1.4%) after 10 years. All the mechanical failures were in advanced-OA patients with ACL-deficient knees and major bony deficiencies.

[Peroperative accidental contamination of bone-tendon-bone graft for the reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament. Report of 4 cases]. / Contamination accidentelle per-opératoire d'un greffon os-tendon-os pour reconstruction du ligament croisé antérieur. A propos de 4 cas.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: The aim of this paper is to report the outcome in four patients in whom the graft (bone-patellar tendon-bone) was dropped onto the operating-room floor during anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, and was then re-implanted after decontamination by topic antibiotic treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Between 1992 and 1996, 1038 anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions were performed. In four cases, the bone-patellar-tendon-bone graft was dropped onto the operating theater floor. The graft was then soaked in rifamycin at a concentration of 0.8 mg/ml in normal saline for 10 mn, and soaked in gentamycin at 0.6 mg/ml for a further 10 mn. Finally, the graft was washed in physiological saline. All cases had been given a loading dose of second generation cephalosporin (cefamandole), after deflating the tourniquet. Post-operatively, the patients were given amoxicillin and clavulanic acid for 15 days. The patients were reviewed radiologically and clinically (IKDC form) with a mean follow-up of 24 months. RESULTS: Post operatively all patients had an uncomplicated recovery. No wound problems was observed in 3 of the four patients achieved an IKDC grade A knee. The final patient had a grade B, after 55 month follow-up. All patients recovered their initial sport level. The radiological Lachman test shows a mean differential value of 0.3 mm. DISCUSSION: Dropping the graft during ACL reconstruction is a very rare problem. In this event, the surgeon can choose several options: Harvesting an other site, sterilizing the graft by irradiation, autoclaving, ethylene oxyde..., or using a topical antibiotic treatment. Cooper showed, in an in vitro study that the contamination rate was halved by antibiotic soaking of the graft. CONCLUSION: We used a topic antibiotic treatment with success in all four cases. We feel warranted the implantation of a graft which has been dropped, and then antibiotic soaked. The patient should of course be informed and told to report any sign or symptom of infection. On the strength of this result, we would like to propose a decontamination protocol which can be used in this sort of incident, fortunately very rare.

[Total knee prosthesis and simultaneous corrective tibial osteotomy, for osteoarthritis and severe congenital tibia varum deformity]. / Prothèse totale et ostéotomie tibiale de correction simultanées, pour gonarthrose sur genu varum excessif constitutionnel.

INTRODUCTION: Restoration of the normal mechanical axis of the knee and balancing of the surrounding soft tissues have been shown to have an important bearing on the final outcome of total knee arthroplasty. In knees with severe congenital varum deformity these goals may be difficult to achieve. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In four patients with osteoarthritis and severe congenital knee varum deformity of more than 15 degrees, we performed a high tibial valgus osteotomy with opening wedge, combined during the same procedure with total knee arthroplasty. RESULTS: As correction of the extra-articular deformity was obtained by the osteotomy, in none of the cases it was necessary to perform extensive soft tissue release or advancement to restore alignment. Postoperative X-rays demonstrated restoration of the normal mechanical axis in three cases, but in one case the angular correction of the osteotomy was insufficient and we observed a 9 degrees residual varus deformity. DISCUSSION: The osteoarthritic knee must be mechanically realigned for any total knee arthroplasty to be successful in the long term. Most commonly angular deformities are manifestations of the arthritis process, but sometimes, like in congenital varus deformity of the tibia, part of the deformation can be extra-articular in origin. In these cases, restoring alignment and stability may be difficult to achieve. The association of high tibial valgus osteotomy with total knee arthroplasty permits the correction of the extra-articular deformity, by the osteotomy, without performing extensive soft tissue release, as would be needed in total knee arthroplasty alone. CONCLUSION: Total knee arthroplasty associated with high tibial valgus osteotomy seems to be a technically satisfying alternative in patients with osteoarthritis and severe congenital varus deformity of the tibia.