Association Between Graft Type and Risk of Repeat Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Cohort Study of 1747 Patients.

BACKGROUND: With an increasing number of primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions (ACLRs), the burden of revision ACLR (rACLR) has also increased. Graft choice for rACLR is complicated by patient factors and the remaining available graft options. PURPOSE: To examine the association between graft type at the time of rACLR and the risk of repeat rACLR (rrACLR) in a large US integrated health care system registry while accounting for patient and surgical factors at the time of revision surgery. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: Data from the Kaiser Permanente ACLR registry were used to identify patients who underwent a primary isolated ACLR between 2005 and 2020 and then went on to have rACLR. Graft type used at rACLR, classified as autograft versus allograft, was the exposure of interest. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression was used to evaluate the risk of rrACLR, with ipsilateral and contralateral reoperation as secondary outcomes. Models included factors at the time of the rACLR (age, sex, body mass index, smoking status, staged revision, femoral fixation, tibial fixation, femoral tunnel method, lateral meniscal injury, medial meniscal injury, and cartilage injury) and a factor from the primary ACLR (activity at injury) as covariates. RESULTS: A total of 1747 rACLR procedures were included. The crude cumulative rrACLR incidence at 8-year follow-up was 13.9% for allograft and 6.0% for autograft. Cumulative ipsilateral reoperation incidence at 8-year follow-up was 18.3% for allograft and 18.9% for autograft; contralateral reoperation cumulative incidence was 4.3% for allograft and 6.8% for autograft. With adjustment for covariates, a 70% lower risk for rrACLR was observed for autograft compared with allograft (hazard ratio [HR], 0.30; 95% CI, 0.18-0.50; P < .0001). No differences were observed for ipsilateral reoperation (HR, 1.05; 95% CI, 0.73-1.51; P = .78) or contralateral reoperation (HR, 1.33; 95% CI, 0.60-2.97; P = .48). CONCLUSION: The use of autograft at rACLR was associated with a 70% lower risk of rrACLR compared with allograft in this cohort from the Kaiser Permanente ACLR registry. When accounting for all reoperations outside of rrACLR after rACLR, the authors found no significant difference in risk between autograft and allograft. To minimize the risk of rrACLR, surgeons should consider using autograft for rACLR when possible.

Surgical Outcomes After Bucket-Handle Meniscal Repairs: Analysis of a Large Contained Cohort.

BACKGROUND: Representing approximately 10% of all meniscal tears, bucket-handle meniscal tears (BHMTs) are large longitudinal vertical tears that have an attached fragment flipped into the intercondylar notch. Meniscectomy often results in significant meniscal loss and increased joint loading. Alternatively, meniscal repair attempts to restore the function of the meniscus and aims to preserve joint mechanics. PURPOSE: To evaluate the long-term risk of subsequent ipsilateral knee surgery in patients who underwent a bucket-handle meniscal repair (BHMR), and to assess risk factors associated with subsequent knee surgical intervention. STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: We performed an electronic health record search for all patients aged 12 to 65 years who underwent arthroscopic knee meniscal repairs for BHMT (2011-2018). We excluded patients who had a previous BHMR, did not have magnetic resonance imaging of the knee within 60 days before BHMR, lacked active membership in Kaiser insurance in the year before and after BHMR, or underwent meniscectomy before BHMR. All patients were followed until December 31, 2019, with censoring at death or membership disenrollment. Primary outcomes included ipsilateral knee procedures overall and by type (ie, repeat meniscal repair and meniscectomy); secondary outcomes included other surgical interventions of the same knee, any contralateral knee surgery, deep surgical-site infection, and deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. RESULTS: The final cohort included 1359 patients with a median age of 24 years (interquartile range [IQR], 17-34) who underwent BHMR for a BHMT. During the follow-up period (median, 50.2 months [IQR, 32.3-60.6]), 495 subsequent ipsilateral procedures were performed in 274 (20.2%) patients, and the median time to the first procedure was 10.6 months (IQR, 4.1-23.5). An overall 59 (4.3%) patients underwent repeat meniscal repair, and 165 (12.1%) had a subsequent meniscectomy of the same knee. Significant risk factors for subsequent ipsilateral procedures included younger age, 12 to 18 years (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 5.77 [95% CI, 1.84-18.08]) and 19 to 30 years (aOR, 3.65 [95% CI, 1.17-11.36]), as well as normal and overweight body mass index (aOR, 2.84 [95% CI, 1.29-6.23] and 2.34 [95% CI, 1.06-5.17], respectively). Patients undergoing concomitant anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) at the initial BHMR had a lower risk of undergoing subsequent surgery (aOR, 0.66 [95% CI, 0.49-0.87]) than those without concomitant ACLR. CONCLUSION: This is the largest reported study on outcomes after BHMR in a contained cohort. One-fifth of patients underwent subsequent ipsilateral surgery during follow-up, with 4.3% receiving a repeat meniscal repair and 12.1% experiencing a meniscectomy. Risk factors for subsequent surgery of the same knee included younger age and normal or overweight body mass index. Concomitant ACLR at time of BHMR reduced the risk of subsequent reoperation.

Acute and subacute anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions are associated with a higher risk of revision and reoperation.

PURPOSE: (1) Report concomitant cartilage and meniscal injury at the time of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), (2) evaluate the risk of aseptic revision ACLR during follow-up, and (3) evaluate the risk of aseptic ipsilateral reoperation during follow-up. METHODS: Using a United States integrated healthcare system's ACLR registry, patients who underwent primary isolated ACLR were identified (2010-2018). Multivariable Cox proportional-hazards regression was used to evaluate the risk of aseptic revision, with a secondary outcome evaluating ipsilateral aseptic reoperation. Outcomes were evaluated by time from injury to ACLR: acute (< 3 weeks), subacute (3 weeks-3 months), delayed (3-9 months), and chronic (≥ 9 months). RESULTS: The final sample included 270 acute (< 3 weeks), 5971 subacute (3 weeks-3 months), 5959 delayed (3-9 months), and 3595 chronic (≥ 9 months) ACLR. Medial meniscus [55.4% (1990/3595 chronic) vs 38.9% (105/270 acute)] and chondral injuries [40.0% (1437/3595 chronic) vs 24.8% (67/270 acute)] at the time of ACLR were more common in the chronic versus acute groups. The crude 6-year revision rate was 12.9% for acute ACLR, 7.0% for subacute, 5.1% for delayed, and 4.4% for chronic ACLR; reoperation rates a 6-year follow-up was 15.0% for acute ACLR, 9.6% for subacute, 6.4% for delayed, and 8.1% for chronic ACLR. After adjustment for covariates, acute and subacute ACLR had higher risks for aseptic revision (acute HR 1.70, 95% CI 1.07-2.72, p = 0.026; subacute HR 1.25, 95% CI 1.01-1.55, p = 0.040) and aseptic reoperation (acute HR 2.04, 95% CI 1.43-2.91, p < 0.001; subacute HR 1.31, 95% CI 1.11-1.54, p = 0.002) when compared to chronic ACLR. CONCLUSIONS: In this cohort study, while more meniscal and chondral injuries were reported for ACLR performed ≥ 9 months after the date of injury, a lower risk of revision and reoperation was observed following chronic ACLR relative to patients undergoing surgery in acute or subacute fashions.

Comparison of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tears Treated Nonoperatively Versus With Reconstruction: Risk of Subsequent Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears can be devastating injuries, leading to joint instability, meniscal tears, and subsequent arthritis. It is unknown whether ACL reconstruction (ACLR) alters the natural history of joint degeneration in the ACL-deficient knee compared with nonoperative treatment, and few studies have examined outcomes in middle-aged patients. PURPOSE: The objective of this study was to compare the midterm risk of subsequent ipsilateral knee surgery in middle-aged patients after an ACL injury treated with initial conservative (nonoperative) management (CM) versus ACLR (operative management [OM]) within 6 months of the diagnosis. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: We performed an electronic database search from 2011 to 2012 for all patients aged 35 to 55 years with an initial diagnosis of magnetic resonance imaging-confirmed ACL tear. Patients who elected CM and those who underwent ACLR within 6 months of the diagnosis (OM) were identified. Index patient and clinical characteristics were collected from the health record. All patients were longitudinally observed until August 31, 2017. The primary outcome was subsequent ipsilateral knee surgeries, and secondary outcomes included contralateral knee surgeries, deep surgical-site infections, and venous thrombotic events. RESULTS: The mean follow-up was 4.8 ± 0.6 years. The CM group included 463 patients (40.2%) and the OM group included 690 patients (59.8%). The mean ages were 43.9 ± 5.7 years and 42.7 ± 5.3 years for patients in the CM and OM groups, respectively (P < .001). Obesity and smoking were significantly more common in the CM group. During the follow-up, 180 patients (38.9%) in the CM group underwent subsequent ipsilateral knee surgery compared with 73 (10.6%) patients in the OM group (P < .001). The mean time to the first ipsilateral procedure was 0.9 ± 1.1 years in the CM and 2 ± 1.5 years in the OM group (P < .001). Delayed ipsilateral ACLRs were performed in 81 patients in the CM group (17.5%); non-ACLR ipsilateral knee surgeries were performed in 156 patients in the CM group (33.7%). Contralateral knee surgery rates were similar. In a regression model, after controlling for age, sex, the Charlson Comorbidity Index score, and smoking status, it was found that normal body mass index and CM group were risk factors for undergoing subsequent knee surgery or ipsilateral non-ACLR surgery. CONCLUSION: Excluding delayed ACLR, subsequent ipsilateral knee surgeries were more common and occurred earlier in middle-aged patients with nonoperatively managed ACL tears compared with patients managed with reconstruction.

Risk Factors for Conversion of Hip Arthroscopy to Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Large Closed-Cohort Study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate risk factors for conversion of hip arthroscopy to total hip arthroplasty (THA) within 2 years in a closed patient cohort. METHODS: This study was a case series of consecutive hip arthroscopy procedures from September 2008 to November 2018 in the electronic medical record of Kaiser Permanente Northern California. Patients were included with minimum 2-year follow-up or if they had conversion to THA within 2 years (the primary outcome) regardless of follow-up time. Patient characteristics at the time of the index arthroscopy were extracted; characteristics of patients who experienced the outcome event versus those who did not were compared by use of multivariable logistic regression models and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. RESULTS: The mean follow-up time was 4.9 years (median 4.6, range 0.6 to 11.6). The mean age was 37.2 years (range 10 to 88), and 57% were female. During the follow-up period, 82 patients underwent a THA within 2 years of their arthroscopies (5.3%, 95% confidence interval 4.3% to 6.5%) after a median time of 9 months (interquartile range 5.9 to 14.4) after the initial arthroscopy. Increasing age was highly predictive of early THA conversion (area under the ROC curve = 0.78, P < .001). Although other predictors showed significant bivariable associations with early failure, body mass index (BMI), race, sex, and prior arthroscopy did not add meaningful independent predictive information. CONCLUSIONS: The risk of conversion to THA within 2 years after hip arthroscopy increased substantially with patient age at the time of the procedure. BMI, race, sex, and prior arthroscopy were not important independent predictors of conversion beyond the information contained in patient age. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Revision Risk of Soft Tissue Allograft Versus Hybrid Graft After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: When a harvested hamstring autograft is deemed by the surgeon to be of inadequate diameter, the options include using the small graft, using another autograft from a different site, augmenting with an allograft (hybrid graft), using a different configuration of the graft (eg, 5- or 6-stranded), or abandoning the autograft and using allograft alone. A small graft diameter is associated with a higher revision risk, and using another autograft site includes added harvest-site morbidity; therefore, use of a hybrid graft or an allograft alone may be appealing alternative options. Revision risk for hybrid graft compared with soft tissue allograft is not known. PURPOSE: To evaluate the risk for aseptic revision surgery after primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) using a soft tissue allograft compared with ACLR using a hybrid graft in patients 25 years and younger. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: Data from a health care system's ACLR registry were used to identify primary isolated unilateral ACLRs between 2009 and 2016 using either a hybrid graft (hamstring autograft with soft tissue allograft) or a soft tissue allograft alone. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression was used to evaluate risk for aseptic revision after ACLR according to graft used after adjustment for age, allograft processing, tunnel drilling technique, and region where the primary ACLR was performed. RESULTS: The cohort included 2080 ACLR procedures; a hybrid graft was used for 479 (23.0%) ACLRs. Median follow-up time was 3.4 years (interquartile range, 1.8-5.1 years). The crude 2-year aseptic revision probability was 5.4% (95% CI, 4.3%-6.7%) for soft tissue allograft ACLR and 3.8% (95% CI, 2.3%-6.4%) for hybrid graft ACLR. After adjustment for covariates, soft tissue allograft ACLR had a higher risk of aseptic revision during follow-up compared with hybrid graft ACLR (hazard ratio, 2.00; 95% CI, 1.21-3.31; P = .007). CONCLUSION: Soft tissue allografts had a 2-fold higher risk of aseptic revision compared with hybrid graft after ACLR. Future studies evaluating the indications for using hybrid grafts and the optimal hybrid graft diameter is needed.

Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy and Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Imbrication for Patellar Instability Due to Trochlear Dysplasia.

BACKGROUND: The treatment of patellar instability in the setting of trochlear dysplasia is challenging. PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS: The purpose of this study was to evaluate outcomes for the treatment of recurrent patellar dislocations due to trochlear dysplasia using anteromedialization tibial tubercle osteotomy combined with medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) imbrication. We hypothesized that the treatment of patellar instability with tibial tubercle osteotomy and MPFL imbrication would result in improved patient satisfaction and decrease patellar instability events in patients with prior instability and trochlear dysplasia. STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: We performed a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent MPFL imbrication and concomitant anteromedialization tibial tubercle osteotomy for recurrent patellofemoral instability at a single institution. The minimum follow-up was 1 year. Patient demographic information including age at the time of surgery, sex, body mass index (BMI), tibial tubercle-trochlear groove (TT-TG) distance, and grade of trochlear dysplasia was collected along with relevant operative data. Postoperatively, recurrent dislocation events as well as Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, and Kujala scores were collected, and satisfaction was ascertained by asking patients whether they would undergo the procedure again. RESULTS: A total of 37 knees from 31 patients (23 female) with a mean follow-up of 3.8 years (range, 1-8.9 years) were included. The mean patient age was 28.8 years (range, 14-45 years), the mean BMI was 24 kg/m2 (range, 20-38 kg/m2), and the mean preoperative TT-TG distance was 18.9 mm (range, 8.4-32.4 mm). Two knees were classified as low-grade trochlear dysplasia (Dejour A) and 35 as high-grade trochlear dysplasia (Dejour B-D). At final follow-up, patients reported mean KOOS subscale scores of 86.5 (Pain), 79.8 (Symptoms), 93.9 (Activities of Daily Living), 74.3 (Sports/Recreation), and 61.9 (Quality of Life), as well as a mean Kujala score of 81.3. Mean patient satisfaction was 8.3 of 10. The majority of knees (86.5%; 32/37) remained stable without recurrent instability after this procedure, while 13.5% (5 knees) suffered a recurrent dislocation, with 2 requiring revision surgery. Eight knees (21.6%) underwent subsequent hardware removal. CONCLUSION: Anteromedialization tibial tubercle osteotomy with MPFL imbrication can improve recurrent patellofemoral instability and provide significant clinical benefit to patients with trochlear dysplasia.

The effect of patient gender on outcomes after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: Gender differences may exist for patients undergoing shoulder arthroplasty. Limited data suggest that women may have worse preoperative disability and outcomes. Our objective was to determine whether gender influences preoperative disability and patient-reported outcomes after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. METHODS: Data were prospectively collected for patients who underwent reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for rotator cuff arthropathy or osteoarthritis with a rotator cuff tear at a single institution between 2009 and 2015. Range of motion, visual analog scale, 12-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12), and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores were collected at the preoperative, 1-year, and 2-year postoperative time points. Data were analyzed using multivariate mixed-effect regression analysis. RESULTS: There were 117 patients included. Men and women had similar demographics, preoperative range of motion, pain, and function. Length of stay was similar (men, 2.32 days; women, 2.58 days; P = .18). Controlling for patient variables, men achieved higher ASES function (P = .009) and SF-12 Physical Component Summary (P = .008) scores compared with women. There was no difference between men and women in ASES pain and SF-12 Mental Component Summary scores, visual analog scale score, or range of motion. CONCLUSION: Improvements in pain and range of motion were similar in men and women; however, men achieved higher ASES function and SF-12 Physical Component Summary scores. Women may be more functionally impaired on the basis of differences in activities of daily living. These results may be used to guide discussion about expected benefits after reverse shoulder arthroplasty.

Comparison of general versus isolated regional anesthesia in total shoulder arthroplasty: A retrospective propensity-matched cohort analysis.

BACKGROUND: Intraoperative anesthetic typically consists of either general anesthesia (GA) or isolated regional anesthesia (RA). METHODS: A retrospective propensity-matched cohort analysis on patients undergoing TSA was performed to determine differences between GA and RA in regard to patient population, complications, LOS and hospital readmission. RESULTS: 4158 patients underwent TSA with GA or isolated RA. Propensity-matching resulted in 912 patients in each cohort. RA had lower overall in-hospital complications and greater homebound discharge disposition with lower 90-day readmission rates than GA. CONCLUSION: After TSA, isolated RA was associated with lower in-hospital complications, readmission rates and odds of hospital readmission than GA.

Subsequent Surgery After Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Rates and Risk Factors From a Multicenter Cohort.

BACKGROUND: While revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) can be performed to restore knee stability and improve patient activity levels, outcomes after this surgery are reported to be inferior to those after primary ACLR. Further reoperations after revision ACLR can have an even more profound effect on patient satisfaction and outcomes. However, there is a current lack of information regarding the rate and risk factors for subsequent surgery after revision ACLR. PURPOSE: To report the rate of reoperations, procedures performed, and risk factors for a reoperation 2 years after revision ACLR. STUDY DESIGN: Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: A total of 1205 patients who underwent revision ACLR were enrolled in the Multicenter ACL Revision Study (MARS) between 2006 and 2011, composing the prospective cohort. Two-year questionnaire follow-up was obtained for 989 patients (82%), while telephone follow-up was obtained for 1112 patients (92%). If a patient reported having undergone subsequent surgery, operative reports detailing the subsequent procedure(s) were obtained and categorized. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to determine independent risk factors for a reoperation. RESULTS: Of the 1112 patients included in the analysis, 122 patients (11%) underwent a total of 172 subsequent procedures on the ipsilateral knee at 2-year follow-up. Of the reoperations, 27% were meniscal procedures (69% meniscectomy, 26% repair), 19% were subsequent revision ACLR, 17% were cartilage procedures (61% chondroplasty, 17% microfracture, 13% mosaicplasty), 11% were hardware removal, and 9% were procedures for arthrofibrosis. Multivariate analysis revealed that patients aged <20 years had twice the odds of patients aged 20 to 29 years to undergo a reoperation. The use of an allograft at the time of revision ACLR (odds ratio [OR], 1.79; P = .007) was a significant predictor for reoperations at 2 years, while staged revision (bone grafting of tunnels before revision ACLR) (OR, 1.93; P = .052) did not reach significance. Patients with grade 4 cartilage damage seen during revision ACLR were 78% less likely to undergo subsequent operations within 2 years. Sex, body mass index, smoking history, Marx activity score, technique for femoral tunnel placement, and meniscal tearing or meniscal treatment at the time of revision ACLR showed no significant effect on the reoperation rate. CONCLUSION: There was a significant reoperation rate after revision ACLR at 2 years (11%), with meniscal procedures most commonly involved. Independent risk factors for subsequent surgery on the ipsilateral knee included age <20 years and the use of allograft tissue at the time of revision ACLR.

Congenital Pseudoarthrosis of the Distal Radius Treated With Physeal-Sparing Double-Barrel Vascularized Free Fibula Transfer: A Case Report.

BACKGROUND: Neurofibromatosis type 1 is a hereditary disease that can lead to pseudoarthrosis of various long bones. Rarely, pseudoarthrosis affects the forearm, and to the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of pseudarthrosis of the distal radius treated by this unique method. METHODS: We present a case of a 7-year-old male who underwent multiple operations to treat pseudoarthrosis of the distal radius. RESULTS: After failed conservative and operative fixation augmented with autologous iliac crest bone grafting, the patient underwent a successful double-barrel vascularized free fibula graft while preserving the physis of the distal radius. CONCLUSION: Double-barrel vascularized free fibula bone graft can be successfully used as the definitive treatment in refractory cases of distal forearm pseudarthrosis and we believe that our technique can be applied to all cases of pseudarthrosis in other patients with a similar presentation and lesion location.

Chronic Distal Biceps Repair With an Achilles Allograft.

In cases of chronic distal biceps ruptures, the combination of muscle atrophy, distal tendon retraction, and fibrosis makes primary anatomic reattachment of the tendon particularly challenging. To regain tendon length and avoid flexion contractures, reconstruction with graft augmentation has been proposed as an alternative for cases not amenable to primary repair. We describe our technique using an Achilles allograft through a modified Henry approach to reconstruct the distal biceps tendon to regain length as well as restore flexion and supination strength. With proper and detailed exposure, chronic distal biceps injuries can be reconstructed safely and efficaciously using an Achilles allograft.

The Effects of Patient Obesity on Early Postoperative Complications After Shoulder Arthroscopy.

PURPOSE: To report the prevalence of obesity in shoulder arthroscopy, determine a body mass index (BMI) threshold most predictive of complication within 30 days, and evaluate obesity as an independent risk factor for medical and surgical complications. METHODS: Using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database, we reviewed all patients who underwent shoulder arthroscopy during 2011 to 2013. Receiver operating characteristic and Youden coefficient were calculated to find an optimal BMI cutoff to predict complications within 30 days of surgery. A case-control matched analysis was then performed by stratifying patient BMI by this cutoff and matching patients one to one according to age, sex, type of shoulder arthroscopy, American Society of Anesthesiology rating, surgical setting, and 8 comorbidities. Operating time, complications, and readmissions were also compared. RESULTS: Of the 15,589 patients who underwent shoulder arthroscopy, 6,684 (43%) were classified as obese when using the optimal cutoff point of BMI = 30 according to the Youden coefficient. Obese patients had a higher risk of superficial site infection than nonobese patients (0.3% vs 0.0%; odds ratio [OR]: 6.00; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3 to 26.8; P = .015). Obese patients did not have significantly increased risk for overall early postoperative complication (1.2% compared with nonobese 0.8%; OR: 1.54; 95% CI, 1.0 to 2.4), readmissions (OR: 0.85; 95% CI, 0.5 to 1.5), or increased operating time (P = .068). CONCLUSIONS: Up to 43% of patients undergoing shoulder arthroscopy can be classified as obese, but early perioperative complications are uncommon. Higher patient BMI is associated with increased risk of superficial site infection but not an overall risk for complication, readmission, or increased operating time. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Acute distal biceps rupture in an adolescent weightlifter on chronic steroid suppression: a case report.

UNLABELLED: Distal biceps tendon ruptures are uncommon events in the adult population and exceedingly rare in the adolescent population. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first and only report of a distal biceps tendon rupture in an adolescent with a history of chronic corticosteroid suppression. We present a case of a 17-year-old male on chronic corticosteroid suppression who underwent a successful distal biceps tendon repair after an acute rupture following weightlifting. At the 1-year follow-up, the patient reports full range of motion and strength, and is able to return to his preinjury activity level with sports and weightlifting. Acute distal biceps ruptures are uncommon injuries in the pediatric population, but may occur in conjunction with chronic corticosteroid use. Anatomic repair, when possible, can restore function and strength. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: level IV, case report.

Does Brachial Plexus Blockade Result in Improved Pain Scores After Distal Radius Fracture Fixation? A Randomized Trial.

BACKGROUND: Distal radius fractures are very common injuries and surgical treatment for them can be painful. Achieving early pain control may help improve patient satisfaction and improve functional outcomes. Little is known about which anesthesia technique (general anesthesia versus brachial plexus blockade) is most beneficial for pain control after distal radius fixation which could significantly affect patients' postoperative course and experience. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: We asked: (1) Did patients receiving general anesthesia or brachial plexus blockade have worse pain scores at 2, 12, and 24 hours after surgery? (2) Was there a difference in operative suite time between patients who had general anesthesia or brachial plexus blockade, and was there a difference in recovery room time? (3) Did patients receiving general anesthesia or brachial plexus blockade have higher narcotic use after surgery? (4) Do patients receiving general anesthesia or brachial plexus blockade have higher functional assessment scores after distal radius fracture repair at 6 weeks and 12 weeks after surgery? METHODS: A randomized controlled study was performed between February, 2013 and April, 2014 at a multicenter metropolitan tertiary-care referral center. Patients who presented with acute closed distal radius fractures (Orthopaedic Trauma Association 23A-C) were potentially eligible for inclusion. During the study period, 40 patients with closed, displaced, and unstable distal radius fractures were identified as meeting inclusion criteria and offered enrollment and randomization. Three patients (7.5%), all with concomitant injuries, declined to participate at the time of randomization as did one additional patient (2.5%) who chose not to participate, leaving a final sample of 36 participants. There were no dropouts after randomization, and analyses were performed according to an intention-to-treat model. Patients were randomly assigned to one of two groups, general anesthesia or brachial plexus blockade, and among the 36 patients included, 18 were randomized to each group. Medications administered in the postanesthesia care unit were recorded. Patients were discharged receiving oxycodone and acetaminophen 5/325 mg for pain control, and VAS forms were provided. Patients were called at predetermined intervals postoperatively (2 hours, 4 hours, 6 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours) to gather pain scores, using the VAS, and to document the doses of analgesics consumed. In addition, patients had regular followups at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. Pain scores were again recorded using the VAS at these visits. RESULTS: Patients who received general anesthesia had worse pain scores at 2 hours postoperatively (general anesthesia 6.7 ± 2.3 vs brachial plexus blockade 1.4 ± 2.3; mean difference, 5.381; 95% CI, 3.850-6.913; p < 0.001); whereas reported pain was worse for patients who received a brachial plexus blockade at 12 hours (general anesthesia 3.8 ± 1.9 vs brachial plexus blockade 6.3 ± 2.4; mean difference, -2.535; 95% CI, -4.028 to -1.040; p = 0.002) and 24 hours (general anesthesia 3.8 ± 2.2 vs brachial plexus blockade 5.3 ± 2.5; mean difference, -1.492; 95% CI, -3.105 to 0.120; p = 0.031).There was no difference in operative suite time (general anesthesia 119 ± 16 minutes vs brachial plexus blockade 125 ± 23 minutes; p = 0.432), but time in the recovery room was greater for patients who received general anesthesia (284 ± 137 minutes vs 197 ± 90; p = 0.0398). Patients who received general anesthesia consumed more fentanyl (64 µg ± 93 µg vs 6.9 µg ± 14 µg; p < 0.001) and morphine (2.9 µg ± 3.6 µg vs 0.0 µg; p < 0.001) than patients who received brachial plexus blockade. Functional outcome scores did not differ at 6 weeks (data, with mean and SD for both groups, and p value) or 12 weeks postoperatively (data, with mean and SD for both groups, and p value). CONCLUSIONS: Brachial plexus blockade pain control during the immediate perioperative period was not significantly different from that of general anesthesia in patients undergoing operative fixation of distal radius fractures. However, patients who received a brachial plexus blockade experienced an increase in pain between 12 to 24 hours after surgery. Acknowledging "rebound pain" after the use of regional anesthesia coupled with patient counseling regarding early narcotic administration may allow patients to have more effective postoperative pain control. It is important to have a conversation with patients preoperatively about what to expect regarding rebound pain, postoperative pain control, and to advise them about being aggressive with taking pain medication before the waning of regional anesthesia to keep one step ahead in their pain control management. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 1, therapeutic study.

Anteromedialisation tibial tubercle osteotomy for recurrent patellar instability in young active patients: A retrospective case series.

INTRODUCTION: Recurrent patellar instability can be a source of continued pain and functional limitation in the young, active patient population. Instability in the setting of an elevated tibial tubercle-trochlear groove (TT-TG) distance can be effectively managed with a tibial tubercle osteotomy. At the present time, clinical outcome data are limited with respect to this surgical approach to patellar instability. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was performed to identify all cases of tibial tubercle osteotomy for the management of patellar instability performed at our institution with at least 1 year of post-operative follow-up. Patient demographic information was collected along with relevant operative data. Each patient was evaluated post-operatively with their outcomes assessed utilising a visual analogue score of pain, patient satisfaction, Tegner Activity Scale and Kujala score. RESULTS: 31 patients (23 females and 8 males) with mean age of 27 years (17-43 years) and a mean BMI of 26.3kg/m(2) (19.6-35.8) at time of surgery who underwent a tibial tubercle osteotomy as treatment for recurrent patellar instability were identified. The cohort had a mean follow up of 4.4 years (1.5-11.8 years). The mean pre-operative TT-TG distance was 18mm (10-22mm). The mean VAS pain score demonstrated a significant improvement from 6.8 (95% CI 6.1-7.5) at baseline to 2.8 (95% CI 1.9-3.7) post-operatively (p<0.001). The Tegner score improved from 4.1 (95% CI 3.4-4.8) pre-operatively to 5.2 (95% CI 4.5-5.9) at the time of final follow up (p<0.04). The Kujala score for anterior knee pain improved postoperatively from 62 (95% CI 55.4-68.7) to 76.5 (95% CI 69.5-83.5) at final follow up (p<0.001). 26 of the 31 patients (83.8%) had good to excellent Kujala scores. 27 of 31 patients (87.1%) reported that they would undergo the procedure again if necessary. CONCLUSION: For the management of recurrent patellar instability in the setting of an increased tibial tubercle-trochlear groove distance, a corrective tibial tubercle osteotomy is an effective treatment modality to reliably prevent patellar instability while reducing pain and improving function in this cohort of young, active patients.

Maffucci Syndrome. An Interesting Case and a Review of the Literature.

Maffucci syndrome, a rare sporadic form of enchondromatosis, is characterized by hemangiomas and multiple enchondromas, benign cartilaginous tumors that arise near growth plates. Previous studies demonstrate that individuals diagnosed with Maffucci syndrome have approximately 100% lifetime risk of malignant transformation. Identification of Maffucci syndrome by surgical excision and pathological diagnosis can be life-saving due to its high malignant potential relative to other subtypes of enchondromatosis such as Ollier's disease. We report a case of a 58-year-old man with enchondromatosis who experienced malignant transformation of the enchondroma in his distal femur into a chondrosarcoma. He underwent a right distal femoral replacement without complications. Two years later, new masses were identified in his left hand and excised following progressive growth, pain, and functional limitation. Pathology confirmed these to be hemangiomas, and he was diagnosed with Maffucci syndrome. At last follow-up, patient reported additional nodular tumor growths occurring unilaterally on the left side. For patients with Maffucci syndrome, continual follow-up and careful surveillance of these masses is crucial as these lesions can cause fractures, deformities, pain, and undergo malignant transformation. Our report reviews the literature and outlines the treatment and management plans for patients with this rare and potentially dangerous disorder.

Continuous Popliteal Sciatic Nerve Block Versus Single Injection Nerve Block for Ankle Fracture Surgery: A Prospective Randomized Comparative Trial.

OBJECTIVES: To compare rebound pain and the need for narcotic analgesia after ankle fracture surgery for patients receiving perioperative analgesia through either a continuous infusion or a single injection nerve block. DESIGN: Prospective randomized controlled trial. SETTINGS: Surgeries were performed at 2 hospitals affiliated with a large urban academic medical center. PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS: Fifty patients undergoing operative fixation of an ankle fracture (AO/OTA type 44). INTERVENTION: Participants were randomized to receive either a popliteal sciatic nerve block as a single shot (SSB group) or a continuous infusion through an On Q continuous infusion pump (On Q group). MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS: Visual analog scale and numeric rating scale (0-10) pain levels and amount of pain medication taken. RESULTS: For all time points after discharge, mean postoperative pain scores and number of pain pills taken were lower in the On Q group versus the SSB group. Pain scores were significantly lower in the On Q group at the 12 hours postoperative time point (P = 0.002) and at 2 weeks postoperatively. The number of pain pills taken in the first 72 hours was lower in the On Q group (14.9 vs. 20.0; P = 0.036). Overall, 7/23 patients in the On Q group had their pump malfunction and 1 patient accidently removed the catheter. CONCLUSIONS: Use of continuously infused regional anesthetic for pain control in ankle fracture surgery significantly reduces "rebound pain" and the need for oral opioid analgesia compared with single-shot regional anesthetic. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Closed Reduction of Subacute Patellar Dislocation Using Saline Joint Insufflation: A Technical Trick.

Patellar dislocations often spontaneously reduce or are reduced easily by experienced professionals. However, some dislocations can prove difficult to reduce and may require sedation or operative management. Our case report suggests an alternative method to facilitate reduction of patellar dislocations. Our technical trick involves insufflation of the knee joint with sterile normal saline, resulting in improved clearance of the patella over the femoral condyles. This low-risk technique can aid in the reduction of a dislocated patella and save the patient from unnecessary sedation or a surgical operation.

Total shoulder arthroplasty using a subscapularis-sparing approach: a radiographic analysis.

BACKGROUND: Traditional total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) involves releasing the subscapularis tendon for exposure. This can potentially lead to subscapularis insufficiency, compromised function, and dissatisfaction. A novel TSA technique preserves the subscapularis tendon by performing the procedure entirely through the rotator interval, allowing accelerated rehabilitation. However, early reports on this approach have noted malpositioning of the humeral component and residual osteophytes. In a randomized trial, we examined the incidence of humeral head malpositioning, incorrect sizing, and residual osteophytes on postoperative radiographs after subscapularis-sparing TSA compared with the traditional approach. METHODS: Patients were prospectively randomized to undergo TSA performed through the traditional or subscapularis-sparing approach. The operating surgeon was blinded to the randomization until the day of surgery. Anatomic reconstruction measurements included humeral head height, humeral head centering, humeral head medial offset, humeral head diameter (HHD), and head-neck angle. Two independent reviewers analyzed the postoperative radiographs to determine anatomic restoration of the humeral head and the presence of residual osteophytes. RESULTS: We randomized 96 patients to undergo either the standard approach (n = 50) or the subscapularis-sparing approach (n = 46). There were no significant differences in humeral head height, humeral head centering, humeral head medial offset, HHD, head-neck angle, and anatomic reconstruction index between the 2 groups. However, significantly more postoperative osteophytes (P = .0001) were noted in the subscapularis-sparing TSA group. Although the overall mean was not statistically different, further analysis of HHD showed that more patients in the subscapularis-sparing TSA group were outliers (mismatch >4 mm) than in the traditional TSA group. CONCLUSIONS: Although anatomic restoration of the shoulder can be accomplished using subscapularis-sparing TSA, retained osteophytes and significant mismatch of the HHD raise concerns regarding long-term outcomes.