Is There a Need for an Exogenous Activator Along with PRP for Early Knee Osteoarthritis? A Triple-Blinded Randomized Control Trial.

Background: In addition to other variables associated with PRP injections for Knee Osteoarthritis (OA), some confusion exists about the role of exogenous activators. The current study looks at matched groups getting PRP injections with or without activator (Calcium gluconate) in early knee OA patients. Methods: Patients of early OA knee meeting inclusion criteria were randomly divided into 2 groups; Group A (43 patients) received 8 ml PRP injection alone, and Group B (48 patients) received 8 ml PRP along with 2 ml Calcium gluconate as activator. The patients were evaluated at baseline, 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months for WOMAC Pain and Total WOMAC scores; secondary variables assessed were VAS score and patient satisfaction. Results: The baseline characteristics of both groups were comparable. Leucocyte-depleted PRP with 5 times concentration and average absolute platelet numbers of 7.144 billion per knee was injected. Mean Pain WOMAC scores decreased in both groups from baseline (group A-8.68, group B-9.09) to final follow-up (group A-4.67, group B-5.11). Similarly, Mean Total WOMAC scores decreased from baseline (group A-37.81, group B-37.41) to (group A-21, group B-21.36) at the final follow-up in both groups. There was no significant difference between both groups, and both showed similar trends. Similar findings were noted for VAS scores. Patient satisfaction was also not different (group A, 90.69%, group B, 89.58%) at the end of 6 months. Conclusion: Our study concluded doubtful role of adding exogenous activator to PRP preparation. Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43465-024-01159-7.

Chondroprotective Effects of a Single PRP Injection in a Spontaneous Osteoarthritis Model of Dunkin Hartley Guinea Pig: An Immunohistochemical Analysis.

Purpose of the Study: The evaluation of anti-apoptotic and chondroprotective properties of a single injection of PRP using immunohistochemistry (IHC). Methods: This was a placebo-controlled blinded experimental study. Ten healthy Dunkin Hartley guinea pigs were selected. One knee of each animal was injected with a single injection of PRP (Group A); the contralateral knee acted as a control and was injected with a single injection of normal saline (Group B). These groups were further divided into A3 and B3 based on the timeline of animal sacrifice (3 months) and A6 and B6 (6 months). The formalin-preserved articular cartilage blocks were subjected to IHC to stain Aggrecan, Caspase-3, and Collagen-2. Results: The mean IHC score was significantly low for Caspase-3 (p-0.029) in intervention group (A3) in comparison to placebo control group (B3) pointing towards decreased apoptosis. The mean IHC values were significantly higher for Collagen II (p-0.011) for intervention group (A6) in contrast to control group (B6); values were also significantly low for Caspase-3 (p-0.029) in A6 as compared to B6. The mean Caspase-3 values were significantly higher in A6 as compared to A3 (p-0.029). Conclusion: The impact of a solitary injection of PRP on upregulation of anabolic pathways inside cartilage is relatively slower as compared to its effect on downregulation of apoptotic pathways. Even a single PRP injection holds the potential to change cartilage microenvironment, but the effects are not long lasting.

Three-Part Fracture Dislocation and Four-Part Fracture Dislocation of the Proximal Humerus: How Different are the Glenoid Labrum and Capsular Injuries Between Them?

Background: Anterior fracture dislocation of the shoulder may have associated injury to the glenoid labrum and/or capsule. There is a need to look at the possible patterns of capsulo-labral injuries intra-operatively and correlate them with pre-operative radiographs and CT scans. It can enable surgeons to predict the patterns of soft-tissue injuries in a specific fracture type. Methods: Patients operated for ORIF of 3- and 4-part anterior fracture dislocation between January 2017 and December 2022 were included in the study. The following data were collected: demographic details, fracture morphology and classification on radiograph and CT scan, neurovascular injury, the subtype of anterior dislocation, and intra-operative identifiable injury to glenoid labrum and/or capsule. Results: A total of 24 cases (mean age 40 ± 10 years) of anterior fracture dislocation of the shoulder were included in the study and were grouped based on Neer's classification. 12 patients had 3-part anterior fracture dislocation (3-part Group) with a mean age of 34 ± 9 years, while 12 patients had 4-part anterior fracture dislocation (4-part Group) with a mean age of 46 ± 7 years (p = 0.001). 10 out of 12 patients in the 3-part Group had the subcoracoid position of the dislocated head, whereas the head was present in 9 out of 12 patients of the 4-part Group at the preglenoid position (p = 0.003). The head position was at a mean distance of 1.85 cm from the anterior glenoid rim in the 4-part Group, whereas the head was engaged at the anterior rim of the glenoid in the 3-part Group. The medial metaphyseal beak was present in 11 out of 12 patients in the 3-part Group, whereas it was absent in all the cases of the 4-part Group (p = 0.001). 92% of the included patients in our study had capsulo-labral injury. 11 out of 12 patients in the 3-part Group had labral injury compared to 10 out of 12 patients in the 4-part Group with severe capsular stripping (p = 0.001). Conclusion: The 3-part fracture dislocation with radiological findings such as the long medial metaphyseal beak and subcoracoid position of the dislocated head had a strong association with a glenoid labral injury, whereas the 4-part fracture dislocation type had a widely displaced preglenoid position of the dislocated head with an absent metaphyseal beak and had a strong association with a capsular type of soft-tissue injury. Level of Evidence: III.

MRI in shoulder arthropathies: A short review.

Arthropathies are a frequent cause of shoulder pain and comprise of a wide range of clinical entities that may pose a diagnostic challenge. Though history and clinical examination remain vital, imaging plays a pivotal role in accurate diagnosis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) remains an invaluable tool for imaging evaluation of shoulder involvement by various arthropathies. With attention to characteristic imaging features, radiologist may be able to differentiate between various disease processes affecting the shoulder joint. In this article, we have provided a brief review of common and uncommon MRI manifestations of various arthropathies affecting the shoulder joint.

Comparison of Conventional Dose Versus Superdose Platelet-Rich Plasma for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Prospective, Triple-Blind, Randomized Clinical Trial.

Background: Confusion persists regarding the ideal dosage of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection for knee osteoarthritis (OA). Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose of the study was to compare the efficacy of 2 different single-injection PRP dosages in patients with early knee OA-a conventional 4 mL dose and a superdose of 8 mL. It was hypothesized that 8 mL of PRP would be superior to 4 mL of PRP in this patient population. Study Design: Randomized clinical trial; Level of evidence, 1. Methods: Patients with early knee OA (Kellgren-Lawrence grades 1 and 2) who met the inclusion criteria were randomly divided into 2 groups: Group A (n = 50 knees) received a 4-mL PRP injection, and group B (n = 49 knees) received an 8-mL PRP injection, both prepared using the same procedure. Patients were evaluated at the baseline, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC), the WOMAC-Pain subscale, the visual analog scale for pain, the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, and patient satisfaction, and results were compared between the groups. Results: The baseline characteristics of the 2 groups were comparable (group A: mean age, 51.96 ± 6.93 years; group B: mean age, 49.12 ± 9.8 3 years). Leucocyte-depleted PRP with 3.5 times concentration (final product platelet concentration, 706.74 × 103-µL) was injected. The mean absolute platelet count injected was 2.82 ± 0.0012 billion in group A and 5.65 ± 0.0022 billion in group B. All patient-reported outcome scores improved significantly in both groups from the baseline to the final follow-up (P < .001), with overall trends and results significantly better in group B than in group A (P < .001). Patient satisfaction at the 6-month follow-up was also better in group B (96%) compared with group A (68%). Short (2 to 7 days) self-limiting complications, such as pain and stiffness, occurred more often in group B (P < .001). Conclusion: Patients with early knee OA had significantly better improvement in pain and function when treated with an 8-mL injection of PRP compared with a 4-mL injection of PRP. The larger dose of PRP had approximately twice the number of platelets. Registration: CTRI/2020/02/023403 (Clinical Trials Registry-India identifier).

Chondroprotective effects of multiple PRP injections in osteoarthritis by apoptosis regulation and increased aggrecan synthesis- Immunohistochemistry based Guinea pig study.

OBJECTIVE: Use of Immunohistochemistry as a tool to assess anti-apoptotic effects and cartilage regeneration effects of PRP in guinea pig model of spontaneous OA. STUDY DESIGN: Controlled Laboratory Study involving Dunkin-Hartley guinea pigs. METHODS: 12 Dunkin-Hartley guinea pigs (weighing ∼600-800 g) were chosen for this study. One knee of each animal received 3 injections of allogenic PRP at weekly intervals (Group A = 12 Knees). The other knee received normal saline and acted as the control group (Group B = 12 Knees). Half of the animals from each group (subgroups A3 & B3 = 6 Knees each) were sacrificed at 3 months, and the remaining half (subgroups A6 & B6 = 6 Knees each) were sacrificed at 6 months after intervention. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining and evaluation were done for Collagen-II, Caspase-3 and Aggrecan. RESULTS: The mean IHC score for Caspase-3 were significantly low in PRP knees compared to placebo Knees at 3 months (P = 0.031) and 6 months (P = 0.012) suggesting its down-regulation and inhibition of apoptosis. The mean IHC score for content of collagen- II and aggrecan at 3 months were higher in PRP Knees (A3) compared to placebo (B3) (Not significant). At 6 months, the Mean IHC Score decreased in both PRP (A6) and Control Knees (B6) for Collagen, but increased for aggrecan compared to its value at 3 months; and this was better in PRP group than in the control (P = 0.024). CONCLUSION: Multiple injections of PRP has a chondroprotective role by its anti-apoptotic effect and by increasing the aggrecan content in ECM.

Outcomes of plate osteosynthesis for displaced 3-part and 4-part proximal humerus fractures with deltopectoral vs. deltoid split approach.

PURPOSE: Three part and four-part fractures of the proximal humerus offer challenges in reduction and plate fixation, with considerable debate about use of Deltoid splitting (DS) and Delto-pectoral (DP) approaches, especially when they involving the greater tuberosity. We prospectively compared the results using DS approach and DP approach in these cases, with special focus on functional outcomes, complications, and ease of tuberosity reduction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 84 patients with three- and four-part proximal humerus fracture were alternately allocated the DP approach or DS approach for proximal humerus locking plate fixation. The outcome analysis was done by evaluating relative Constant score and ease of surgical reduction of greater tuberosity; radiological malunion was evaluated using Beredjiklian classification and complications were noted. RESULTS: At mean follow-up of 23 months (19-48 months), the mean 'relative Constant score was 74.27 ± 8.19 in the DP group and 73.26 ± 8.02 in the DS group and the difference was statistically insignificant (p = 0.988). There was no significant difference with respect to shoulder ROM, abductor strength, radiological malunion or complications. However, the mean surgical time was significantly less (p value = 0.042) in DS group (65 ± 5 min) in comparison to DP group (92 ± 4.3 min); significantly less difficulties were documented by the surgeon in reducing the greater tuberosity in DS group(p value = 0.02). CONCLUSION: Although surgical time was reduced and greater tuberosity reduction was easier in DS group, the other outcomes were similar; either surgical approach can be used based, and can be based on the experience and comfort level of the surgeon.

Dual split and dislocation----a variant of Schatzker type-I tibial plateau fracture: A case report.

Schatzkter type-I tibial plateau fracture is a split fracture of the lateral tibial plateau in sagittal plane, consequent to valgus impaction caused by low velocity of trauma. However, a deep understanding of the different columns of the tibial plateau and patho-mechanisms of the injury led to the unmasking of atypical fractures around the tibial plateau. We have encountered 2 cases with unusual fracture pattern of the lateral tibial condyle caused by road traffic accidents. The fracture pattern and severity of injury deviate from the original description of Schatzker type 1; in view of dual plane split, there is rotation of the posterolateral column fragment along its sagittal plane plus grade-III medial collateral ligament injury. The patients were initially treated with knee spanning external fixator and after a latency of 5 days, definitive fracture specific fixation was done, combined with repair of grade-III medial collateral ligament injury. At the 6 months follow-up both the patients achieved satisfactory knee functions (knee society score case 1: 100 and case 2: 92) and returned to their jobs. The severity of fracture pattern and displacement as described should prompt for examination of associated ligament injury. Because of timely diagnosis, early and appropriate care promised an excellent function outcome even in such a severe nature of knee injury. To prompt the description of injury pattern we coined the name "dual split and dislocation" of lateral tibial plateau, as a complex injury variant of split fracture of lateral tibial plateau fracture.

Complex bicondylar tibial plateau fractures with reversed tibial slope - Our experience with a fracture-specific correction strategy.

BACKGROUND: Tibial plateau fractures are complex and may result in sub-optimal results despite a timely and excellent reduction. An important cause for this may be the inability to detect and correct sagittal malalignment consequent to a reversal of the posterior tibial slope. We describe here the surgical steps to restore posterior tibial slope in a series of our patients with tibial condyle fractures involving the posterior column fragment using a fixed-angle locking plate. METHODS: This was a prospective cohort study of 4 cases who had sustained closed, bicondylar tibial plateau fractures (AO/OTA 41-C3) involving the posterior column fragment and reversed sagittal slope. All patients were operated in a prone position through a posterior approach. The fixation was done with a fixed angle locking plate. RESULTS: The average time taken for fracture union was 12 (range 10-15) weeks. The posterior tibial slope was restored in all the four patients (mean posterior proximal tibial angle = 8.5°, mean medial proximal tibial angle = 88°). There were no procedure-related complications. All patients attained excellent Knee Society Score at one year follow up (mean score = 93). CONCLUSION: A posterior approach in the prone position gives direct access to the fracture apex which eases the fracture reduction and fixation to correct the sagittal malalignment in tibial condyle fractures involving the posterior column fragment. We propose this approach as an critical surgical technique which helps in improved outcomes of tibial condylar fractures.

Antimicrobial stewardship programme in a trauma centre of a tertiary care hospital in North India: Effects and implementation challenges.

OBJECTIVES: Hospital-based antimicrobial stewardship programmes (ASPs) aim to optimise antimicrobial use by employing a set of co-ordinated interventions. This study evaluated the implementation challenges of an ASP in a tertiary trauma care centre in India and its effect on antimicrobial prescription. METHODS: A pre- and post-intervention study design was used to compare the effects of the ASP amongst patients admitted during November 2017-January 2018. The appropriateness of antimicrobial prescriptions (dose, route, duration, indication, choice) was evaluated using a validated algorithm. ASP interventions involved daily audit and feedback, restriction on antibacterial usage, daily bedside review, education, and sensitisation activities for residents/nurses. Key implementation challenges and solutions were brainstormed in weekly meetings. RESULTS: A total of 695 patients were prescribed 1331 antimicrobials. There was a decrease in prophylactic antimicrobial use by 11% (P < 0.001). The prescription pattern improved significantly in the intervention phase compared with the pre-intervention phase in terms of duration, choice, indication and route of administration by 8%, 14%, 2% and 8% respectively. Patients in the intervention arm had significantly higher likelihood of receiving antimicrobials for an appropriate duration (aOR = 2.1, 95% CI 1.3-3.6; P = 0.004) and reason (aOR = 2.4, 95% CI 1.3-4.3; P = 0.003). Challenges identified in implementation included absence of an electronic recording system and inadequate orientation of treating doctors regarding rational antimicrobial use. CONCLUSIONS: The ASP demonstrated significant improvement in antimicrobial usage. This model may be replicated in other hospital settings to promote rational use of antimicrobials.

Potential Adjunctive Role of Radiosynovectomy in Primary Synovial Osteochondromatosis of the Knee: A Case Report.

Primary synovial osteochondromatosis (PSOC) is a rare but clinically significant cause of morbidity especially in the male population. Surgery is the primary treatment of choice, but the recurrence rate is reported to be high. Moreover, the presence of widespread loose bodies makes it a cumbersome procedure. The complete removal of the disease is tough at times and results in early recurrence. Radiosynovectomy is an established technique for treating various joint arthropathies. The role of radiosynovectomy in case of PSOC has not yet been explored. This case report described the case of a young male with PSOC of the knee joint who was treated with radiosynovectomy for pain relief. The patient reported complete relief from the pain along with significant improvement in joint mobility. The post-therapy three-phase bone scan also validated the reduction in joint inflammation. The patient was taken for surgical removal of the redundant loose bodies after a significant improvement in the pain and reduction in inflammation. Post-therapy radiation fibrosis of the synovium also helped in the en bloc removal of the disease. The role of radiosynovectomy in PSOC needs to be further explored concerning its potential role as an adjuvant to surgical procedures.

Failed Radiation Synovectomy in Diseased Knee Joint with Missed Tuberculous Synovitis.

The authors in this case report highlight the poor outcome of radiation synovectomy (RSV) for repeated knee joint effusion in a patient with histopathologically proven nonspecific arthritis. There was partial response initially following RSV but later follow-up showed recurrence in joint effusion with limited and painful mobility of the knee joint. Subsequent surgical synovectomy and histopathological examination showed it to be tubercular in origin. Thus in a country endemic for tuberculosis, an alternative infective etiology should also be kept in mind before subjecting the patient to RSV.

Proposed Methods for Real-Time Measurement of Posterior Condylar Angle during TKA.

PURPOSE: Conventional instruments are known to result in high numbers of outliers in restoring femoral component rotation primarily due to fixed degree of external rotation resection relative to the posterior condylar line (PCL). Outliers can be reduced by determining the patient specific posterior condylar angle (PCA) preoperatively or intraoperatively. There is a paucity of methods that can be used during surgery for determining the PCA. We propose two simple, real-time methods to determine the PCA and hence to measure the axial anatomical variation during surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was conducted using axial computed tomography (CT) scans of the knees of 26 patients. The commercial software K-PACS and our proposed two methods (trigonometric and protractor) were used to measure the angle between the transepicondylar axis and PCL, i.e., PCA. Statistical comparison between the mean angles obtained by K-PACS and our methods were done. RESULTS: The three methods resulted in similar PCAs. The mean PCA measured by the three methods were similar. The mean PCA value measured by the K-PACS, trigonometric method and protractor method was 6.27° (range, 0° to 12°), 6.23° (range, 0° to 11.11°) and 6.31° (range, 0° to 12°), respectively. There were significant correlations between the K-PACS measured PCA and trigonometrically or protractor measured PCA. CONCLUSIONS: Our novel, simple, easily reproducible, real-time and radiation-free PCA measurement methods obviate the need for preoperative CT scan for identification of patient specific PCA.