The Effect of Aberrant Rotation on Radiographic Patellar Height Measurement Using Canton-Deschamps Index: A Cadaveric Analysis.

The Caton-Deschamps Index (CDI) is a measurement used to evaluate patella alta based on true lateral radiographs; however, no prior study has investigated how altering the degree of radiograph aberrancy affects CDI measurement. The primary and secondary purpose of this study was to evaluate effects of rotational radiographic changes on patella height measurements and compare these findings to MRI measurements, respectively. Five cadaver knees (n = 5) were utilized in this study. True lateral radiographs were obtained for each specimen by using a fluoroscopic C-arm machine. The C-arm was then altered in two planes (axial and coronal) in both the clockwise and counterclockwise direction and radiographs were taken at 5, 10, and 15 degrees of error from the true lateral position. A CDI measurement of each specimen was performed based on sagittal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) slices and compared with radiographic CDI measurements. Three orthopedic surgeons measured the CDI for each radiograph and MRI performed. Interrater reliability and changes in CDI were analyzed. Clinically significant difference in CDI was set to 0.1. Mean intraclass correlation coefficient was high (≥0.7) at true lateral and at all varying degrees of error. When performing a pairwise comparison of mean CDI from the true lateral position to increasing degrees of error, statistically significant differences were observed in the axial plane. The largest change in CDI measurements was seen with rotational malposition in the axial plane and counterclockwise direction. No statistically significant differences in mean CDI were observed in the coronal plane. The change in CDI from the true lateral position reached an absolute maximum of at least 0.1 in all four scenarios at each tested degree of error. This study found that aberrant radiographic rotation in the axial plane resulted in a significantly different mean CDI measurement when compared with true lateral radiographs. All degrees of error in both directions and in both planes could have a clinically significant effect on CDI (≥0.1). Our findings confirm the importance of a perfect true lateral radiograph when measuring patella height.

Median Nerve Mononeuropathy and Meralgia Paresthetica After Prone Positioning in a Patient with COVID-19 ARDS: A Case Report.

CASE: Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, prone positioning has decreased mortality in patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome. We present the unique case of a patient who developed left median nerve mononeuropathy and bilateral meralgia paresthetica after prone positioning while afflicted with COVID-19. These nerve injuries have been rarely reported in the literature and never before in the same patient. CONCLUSION: Our case highlights the importance of increased care when positioning patients prone by padding bony prominences, evenly distributing pressure across known sites of peripheral nerve entrapment, and giving consideration to prone-positioning time intervals when caring for intubated patients.

Wide Variation in Methodology in Level I and II Studies on Cartilage Repair: A Systematic Review of Available Clinical Trials Comparing Patient Demographics, Treatment Means, and Outcomes Reporting.

BACKGROUND: The management of complex cartilage pathology in young, otherwise healthy patients can be difficult. PURPOSE: To determine the nature of the design, endpoints chosen, and rate at which the endpoints were met in published studies and ongoing clinical trials that investigate cartilage repair and restoration procedures. STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review. METHODS: A systematic review of the publicly available level I/II literature and of the publicly listed clinical trials regarding cartilage repair and restoration procedures for the knee was conducted adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. RESULTS: Seventeen published studies and 52 clinical trials were included. Within the 17 published studies, the most common procedure studied was microfracture (MFX) + augmentation (N = 5; 29.4%) and the most common comparison/control group was MFX (N = 10; 58.8%). In total, 13 different cartilage procedure groups were evaluated. For published studies, the most common patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures assessed is the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and Visual Analog Scale-Pain (VAS) (N = 10 studies, 58.8% each, respectively). Overall, there are 10 different PROs used among the included studies. Ten studies demonstrate superiority, 5 demonstrate noninferiority, and 2 demonstrate inferiority to the comparison or control groups. For the clinical trials included, the most common procedure studied is MFX + augmentation (N = 16; 30.8%). The most common PRO assessed is KOOS (N = 36 trials; 69.2%), and overall there are 24 different PROs used among the included studies. CONCLUSIONS: Recently published studies and clinical trials evaluate a variety of cartilage repair and restoration strategies for the knee, most commonly MFX + augmentation, at various time points of outcome evaluation, with KOOS and VAS scores being used most commonly. MFX remains the most common comparison group for these therapeutic investigations. Most studies demonstrate superiority versus comparison or control groups. Understanding the nature of published and ongoing clinical trials will be helpful in the investigation of emerging technologies required to navigate the regulatory process while studying a relatively narrow population of patients.

Return to Work Following Isolated Opening Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy.

PURPOSE: Patients with isolated medial compartment osteoarthritis and varus deformity may undergo high tibial osteotomy (HTO) to reduce the contact pressure in the medial compartment. The purpose of this investigation is (1) examine the timeline of return to work (RTW) following HTO and (2) evaluate RTW stratified by occupational intensity. METHODS: Consecutive patients undergoing HTO were reviewed retrospectively at a minimum of 2-years postoperatively. Patients completed a subjective work questionnaire, a visual analogue scale for pain, Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation, and a satisfaction questionnaire. RESULTS: Thirty-eight patients were included at an average of 9.0 ± 3.3 years postoperatively. Thirty-seven patients (average age 43.4 ± 7.8 years, 91.9% with a Kellgren-Lawrence grade of III/IV) were employed within 3 years prior to surgery. Eighteen patients (48.6%) underwent subsequent surgery with 14 patients (37.8%) receiving a salvage knee arthroplasty at an average of 6.1 ± 3.5 years following HTO. Thirty-five patients (94.5%) returned to work at an average of 2.9 ± 2.0 months. The rate of RTW for sedentary, light, moderate, and heavy duties were 87.5%, 100%, 100%, and 93.3%, respectively, while the duration until RTW was 1.0 months, 1.1 months, 2.4 months, and 3.3 months, respectively. CONCLUSION: In a young and active population with osteoarthritis or varus deformity, an HTO allows patients to return to work; however, patients with high-intensity occupations may be absent from work longer than those with lesser physically demanding occupations. HTO is not a definitive treatment option as nearly 40% of patients underwent knee arthroplasty by 6.1 years postoperatively. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV, case series.

Articular Cartilage Injuries of the Knee: Patient Health Literacy, Expectations for Management, and Clinical Outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this article is to review the orthopedic literature regarding patient understanding of articular cartilage disease, interpret literature reporting patient expectations for surgical management of articular cartilage injuries of the knee, and review patient-reported outcomes and patient satisfaction with management of these injuries. DESIGN: A retrospective review of the current literature using the PubMed database (1980-current) was performed on July 15, 2017. The search terms used were "patient understanding knee cartilage," "patient satisfaction knee cartilage," "patient expectation knee cartilage," and "patient reported outcomes knee cartilage." All searches were filtered to human studies and English language only and were reviewed by 2 independent reviewers. Studies not relevant to articular cartilage injury and/or surgical management in the knee were excluded. Additional references were found by backtracing references from obtained articles. RESULTS: The published study search results for the terms: "patient understanding knee cartilage," "patient satisfaction knee cartilage," "patient expectation knee cartilage," and "patient reported outcomes knee cartilage" displayed a total of 873 studies. Two independent reviewers screen all studies A total of 50 published studies were relevant and included. CONCLUSION: The subjective and objective clinical outcomes reported are inconsistently obtained resulting in difficulty drawing comparisons between studies. While the relationship between preoperative patient expectations and patient-reported outcomes and patient satisfaction has yet to be well developed, authors have reported patient and injury specific variables associated with superior and inferior outcomes. In conclusion, more work is needed to correlate patient-reported outcomes and satisfaction for cartilage treatments with preoperative expectations and health literacy.

Return to Work After Distal Femoral Varus Osteotomy.

BACKGROUND: Distal femoral varus osteotomy (DFVO) is a well-described procedure to address valgus deformity of the knee. There is a paucity of information available regarding patients' ability to return to work (RTW) after DFVO. PURPOSE: To report the objective findings for RTW rates and times for patients receiving a DFVO for lateral compartment osteoarthritis secondary to valgus deformity of the knee. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: This was a retrospective study of patients who received a lateral-wedge opening DFVO. Patients must have worked within 3 years before their operation to be included for analysis. Patients were contacted at a minimum of 2 years postoperatively for interview and questionnaire evaluation, including a subjective work questionnaire, visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation (SANE), and a satisfaction questionnaire. RESULTS: Overall, 32 patients were contacted at a mean follow-up of 7.1 ± 4.1 years (range, 2.2-13.3 years). The mean ± SD age at the time of surgery was 30.8 ± 8.8 years (range, 17.2-46.5 years), and 65.6% of patients were female. Eleven patients (34.4%) received a concomitant meniscal allograft transplant, and 12 (37.5%) received a cartilage grafting procedure. The average VAS pain score decreased significantly from 6.1 preoperatively to 3.2 postoperatively (P = .03). All patients were able to RTW, at a mean time of 6.0 ± 13.2 months postoperatively (range, 0-72 months). When stratified by work intensity, the average time to return was 13.8, 3.1, 2.7, and 2.9 months for high, moderate, light, and sedentary occupations, respectively. There was no significant difference between these RTW times (P = .16), although this analysis may have been limited by the small sample size. Four patients whose work was classified as heavy work (50%) and 3 whose work was classified as moderate work (18.8%) either switched jobs or kept the same job with lighter physical duties as a result of their procedures. CONCLUSION: In a young and active population, DFVO for valgus deformity reliably afforded the ability to RTW within a relatively short time for patients with sedentary, light, and moderate occupational demands. However, patients with moderate- to high-intensity occupational demands may be unable to RTW at their preoperative level.

Topographic Analysis of Lateral Versus Medial Femoral Condyle Donor Sites for Oblong Medial Femoral Condyle Lesions.

PURPOSE: To analyze the topographic matching of oblong osteochondral allografts to treat large oval medial femoral condyle (MFC) lesions using computer simulation models. The secondary objective was to determine whether lateral femoral condyle (LFC) grafts would have a similar surface matching when compared with MFC grafts in this setting. METHODS: Human femoral hemicondyles (10 MFCs, 7 LFCs) underwent 3-dimensional computed tomography. Models were created from computed tomography images and exported into point-cloud models. Donor-recipient matches with large condylar width mismatch were excluded. The remaining specimen were divided into 3 donor-recipient groups with 2 defect sizes (17 × 30 mm and 20 × 30 mm): 20 MFC donor (MFCd)-MFC recipient (MFCr), 27 ipsilateral LFC donor (LFCd)-MFCr, and 26 contralateral LFCd-MFCr. Grafts were optimally virtually aligned with the MFCr defect. Mismatch of the articular cartilage and subchondral bone surfaces between the graft and the defect and articular step-off were calculated. RESULTS: MFCd grafts resulted in articular cartilage surface mismatch and peripheral step of less than 0.5 mm for both defect sizes. The subchondral bone surface mismatch was significantly greater than the articular cartilage surface mismatch (P < .01) in both defect sizes). Conversely, the ipsilateral and contralateral LFCd grafts resulted in significantly greater articular cartilage surface mismatch and step-off for both defect sizes when compared to MFCd grafts (P < .01). CONCLUSIONS: Oblong MFC allografts provide acceptable topographic matching for large oval MFC lesions when condylar width differences are minimized. However, concern exists in using oblong LFC allografts for MFC defects, as this can result in increased peripheral step-off and surface mismatch. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: These data reinforce the ability to use oblong MFC osteochondral allograft for treating oval cartilage lesions of the MFC when condylar width is considered. Although other studies have demonstrated LFCs can be used to treat circular defects on the MFC, this may not be true for oblong grafts.

The Effect of Triangulation Simulator Training on Arthroscopy Skills: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial.

PURPOSE: To prospectively evaluate the transferability of skills acquired on a low-cost, at-home, nonanatomic triangulation simulation system to cadaveric models. METHODS: We randomized 28 medical students into either a simulator-training group (n = 14) or group with no training (control, n = 14). All subjects were pretested using a standardized checklist of arthroscopic skills on cadaveric knees and shoulders. Training-group subjects practiced on the triangulation simulator for 90 minutes per week for 4 consecutive weeks. Control subjects received no training. All subjects completed a post-test checklist of arthroscopic skills on cadaveric knees and shoulders, as well as 4 training tasks on the simulator. A blinded orthopaedic surgeon evaluated the arthroscopic videos using the Arthroscopic Surgical Skill Evaluation Tool (ASSET) score. RESULTS: Training-group knee and shoulder ASSET scores increased from 12.2 ± 1.85 to 14.6 ± 2.76 (P = .02) and from 14.6 ± 3.5 to 17.9 ± 4.5 (P = .29), respectively. In the control group, knee and shoulder ASSET scores increased from 14.3 ± 3.12 to 14.25 ± 4.67 (P = .99) and from 14.2 ± 2.7 to 17.07 ± 6.7 (P = .58), respectively. There were no significant differences in the mean post-test ASSET scores between the training group and control group for either knee or shoulder arthroscopy. The post-test ASSET safety subscore during knee arthroscopy was significantly higher in the training group (P = .03). The training group was able to complete significantly more simulator tasks compared with controls (P = .003) at post-testing. A significant positive correlation was found between knee arthroscopy performance and the number of tasks completed during simulation post-testing (P = .043). There was no significant correlation between shoulder arthroscopy performance and simulation performance (P = .532). CONCLUSIONS: Basic triangulation skills may be acquired by training on a low-cost, at-home, nonanatomic triangulation simulation system, although the degree of transferability and universal joint applicability, as well as the existence of an early ceiling effect in skill development, could not be shown. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II, randomized controlled trial.

Effect of Patella Alta on the Native Anatomometricity of the Medial Patellofemoral Complex: A Cadaveric Study.

BACKGROUND: Patella alta has been identified as an important risk factor for lateral patellar instability and medial patellofemoral complex (MPFC) reconstruction failure. PURPOSE: To evaluate the length changes of the MPFC at multiple possible reconstruction locations along the extensor mechanism in varying degrees of patella alta throughout knee motion. STUDY DESIGN: Controlled laboratory study. METHODS: Eight fresh-frozen cadaveric knees were used in this study. The MPFC was identified and dissected with the patellar tendon and quadriceps tendon. A custom-made jig was utilized to evaluate lengths from 0° to 90° of flexion with physiological quadriceps loading. Length was measured with a 3-dimensional robotic arm at 4 possible reconstruction locations along the extensor mechanism: the midpoint patella (MP), the MPFC osseous center (FC), the superior medial pole of the patella (SM) at the level of the quadriceps insertion, and 1 cm proximal to the SM point along the quadriceps tendon (QT). These measurements were repeated at 0°, 20°, 40°, 60° and 90° of flexion. Degrees of increasing severity of patella alta at Caton-Deschamps index (CDI) ratios of 1.0, 1.2, 1.4, and 1.6 were then investigated. RESULTS: Patella alta and MPFC attachment site location significantly affected changes in MPFC length from 0° to 90° of flexion (P< .0005). Length changes at attachment MP showed no difference when CDI 1.0 was compared with all patella alta values (CDI 1.2, 1.4, 1.6; P > .05). Similarly, FC showed no difference in length change from 0° to 90° until CDI 1.6, in contrast to proximal attachments (SM, QT), which demonstrated significant changes at CDI 1.4 and 1.6. When length changes were analyzed at each degree of flexion (0°, 20°, 40°, 60°, 90°), Spearman correlation analysis showed a moderate negative linear correlation for QT at CDI 1.0 (r= -0.484; P = .002) and 1.6 (r = -0.692; P < .0005), demonstrating constant loosening at the QT point at normal and elevated patellar height. In contrast, no differences in length were observed for MP at CDI 1.0 throughout flexion, and at CDI 1.6, there was a difference only at 0° (P < .05). Points FC and MP at CDI 1.6 had similar length change properties to points SM and QT at CDI 1.0 (P > .05), suggesting that distal attachments in the setting of patella alta may provide similar length changes to proximal attachmentswith normal height. CONCLUSION: Anisometry of the MPFC varies not only with attachment location on the extensor mechanism but also with patellar height. Increased patellar height leads to more significant changes in anisometry in the proximal MPFC attachment point as compared with the distal component. In the setting of patella alta, including a CD ratio of 1.6, the osseous attachments of the MPFC remain nearly isometric wheras the proximal half length changes increase significantly. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The results of this study support the idea that the MPFC should be considered as 2 separate entities (proximal medial quadriceps tendon femoral ligament and distal medial patellofemoral ligament) owing to their unique length change properties.

Return to Sport and Patient Satisfaction After Meniscal Allograft Transplantation.

PURPOSE: To investigate patient return to sport and satisfaction after meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT). METHODS: Patients undergoing MAT using a bone bridge technique between 2013 and 2015 with minimum 2-year follow-up were retrospectively reviewed. They completed a survey regarding return to sport, satisfaction, and subsequent surgery in addition to patient-reported outcome measures. RESULTS: Of 117 patients, 87 (74.4%) were available at an average follow-up of 3.64 years (range, 2.01-5.13 years). The mean age at the time of surgery was 28.99 ± 8.26 years. Lateral MAT was performed in 44 cases (50.6%); medial MAT, 42 (48.3%); and combined medial and lateral MAT, 1 (1.1%). Concomitant procedures were performed in 72 patients (82.7%) including cartilage restoration (n = 65, 74.7%), realignment (n = 9, 10.3%), and anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (n = 9, 10.3%). Patients experienced significant improvement in the Lysholm score (P < .001), International Knee Documentation Committee score (P < .001), Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS)-Quality of Life (P < .001), KOOS-Activities of Daily Living (ADL) (P < .001), KOOS-Pain (P < .001), KOOS-Sports (P = .001), KOOS-Symptoms (P = .003), Short Form 12 physical score (P < .001), and Veterans Rand-12 physical score (P < .001). Reoperation was performed in 26 patients (29.9%); failure occurred in 12 patients (13.8%; total knee arthroplasty in 1, unicompartmental arthroplasty in 2, and total meniscectomy in 9). Overall, 77.0% of patients were satisfied with their outcome. Prior to MAT, 82 patients (94.3%) participated in sporting activities; 62 patients (75.6%) returned to at least one sport at 12.58 ± 6.20 months postoperatively, with 30 (48.4%) reaching their preoperative level of intensity and 72 (87.8%) discontinuing at least one of their preoperative sports. The most common reasons for sports discontinuation postoperatively were prevention of further damage (73.6%), pain with activity (51.4%), fear of further injury (48.6%), surgeon recommendation (33.3%), and swelling with activity (30.6%). Patients were satisfied with their sports participation at a rate of 62.1%. CONCLUSIONS: In a complex patient population undergoing arthroscopic MAT, 75.6% of patients were able to return to at least one sport at an average of 12.58 ± 6.20 months postoperatively. The level of sport declined, with 93.5% of patients restricting involvement to recreational sports after MAT and 48.4% returning to their preoperative level of activity intensity. In addition, 87.8% of patients reported discontinuing a sport in which they had participated preoperatively. The most common reasons for decreasing level of sport were prevention of further damage, pain or swelling with sports, and fear of further injury. The reoperation rate after MAT was 29.9%. Most patients were satisfied with the outcome of surgery, with 77.0% satisfied in general and 62.1% satisfied with their ability to play sports. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, retrospective case series.

Return to Sport Following High Tibial Osteotomy With Concomitant Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation.

BACKGROUND: Young patients with symptomatic chondral defects in the medial compartment with varus malalignment may undergo opening wedge high tibial osteotomy (HTO) with concomitant osteochondral allograft transplantation (OCA) (HTO + OCA). Although patients have demonstrated favorable outcomes after HTO + OCA, limited information is available regarding return to sporting activities after this procedure. PURPOSE: To evaluate (1) the timeline to return to sports (RTS), (2) patient satisfaction, and (3) reasons for discontinuing sporting activity after HTO + OCA, and to identify predictive factors of RTS. STUDY DESIGN: Case series; level of evidence, 4. METHODS: Consecutive patients who underwent HTO + OCA for varus deformity and medial femoral condyle focal chondral defects with a minimum 2-year follow-up were retrospectively reviewed. Patients completed a subjective sports questionnaire, satisfaction questionnaire, visual analog scale for pain, and Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation. RESULTS: Twenty-eight patients with a mean age of 36.97 ± 7.52 years were included at mean follow-up of 6.63 ± 4.06 years. Fourteen patients (50.0%) required reoperation during the follow-up period, with 3 (10.7%) undergoing knee arthroplasty. Twenty-four patients participated in sports within 3 years before surgery, with 19 patients (79.2%) able to return to at least 1 sport at a mean 11.41 ± 6.42 months postoperatively. However, only 41.7% (n = 10) were able to return to their preoperative level. The most common reasons for sports discontinuation (n = 20; 83.3%) were a desire to prevent further damage to the knee (70.0%), persistent pain (55.0%), persistent swelling (30.0%), and fear (25.0%). CONCLUSION: In young, active patients with varus deformity and focal medial femoral condyle chondral defects, HTO + OCA enabled 79.2% of patients to RTS by 11.41 ± 6.42 months postoperatively. However, only 41.7% of patients were able to return to their preinjury level or better. It is imperative that patients be appropriately educated to manage postoperative expectations regarding sports participation after HTO + OCA.

Differential Contributions of the Quadriceps and Patellar Attachments of the Proximal Medial Patellar Restraints to Resisting Lateral Patellar Translation.

PURPOSE: To define the contributions of the of the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) and medial quadriceps tendon femoral ligament (MQTFL) to lateral patellar translation as the knee moves through a 90° arc of motion. METHODS: Six pairs of bilateral cadaveric knee specimens (12 knees) were dissected and potted in perfect lateral position using fluoroscopy. An eye screw was placed in the midpoint on the lateral aspect of the patella. Each knee underwent testing in 4 conditions after sequential sectioning: intact, lateral retinacular release, randomized MQTFL or MPFL sectioning, and complete proximal medial patellar restraint (PMPR) sectioning. With a custom machined jig, all knees were tested at 0, 10, 20, 30, 45, 60, and 90° of flexion on an MTS machine with 20N of lateral patellar force applied and displacement recorded. RESULTS: PMPR extensor mechanism insertion on all specimens was identified 50% on the quadriceps tendon and 50% on the proximal aspect of the medial patella. Isolated MPFL sectioning resulted in significantly increased lateral displacement compared to the lateral release state at all flexion angles tested except 0°. There was significantly increased lateral patellar displacement with complete sectioning compared with isolated proximal sectioning at all degrees of knee flexion except 0°. However, complete sectioning following isolated MPFL sectioning did not demonstrate significance at any angle. CONCLUSIONS: Compared with the MQTFL, the MPFL is primarily responsible for resistance to lateral patellar translation throughout a 0° to 90° arc of motion. The MPFL provides a similar resistance to lateral patellar displacement as the fully intact PMPR; however, the MQTFL may contribute to resistance in full extension. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Proximal medial patellar restraint reconstruction techniques involving both the patellar and quadriceps insertion have been described; however, the unique contributions of the native anatomy to lateral patellar restraint have not been investigated.

Lack of standardization among clinical trials of injection therapies for knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review.

Purpose: Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is a debilitating, expensive, and prevalent disease, and interest in the non-surgical management of knee OA has grown recently. Our objective was to systematically assess the level of heterogeneity among all clinical trials and published studies regarding injections for knee osteoarthritis, in terms of treatment of interest, outcomes evaluated, and time points of outcome assessment. Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were utilized to review all published studies and publically available clinical trials from 1 January 2013 to 3 May 2019evaluating intra-articular injections to treat knee OA. Their treatment group and specifics of methodology were scrutinized and compared. Results: 84 published studies and 114 clinical trials were included. Within the 84 published studies, the most common injection treatment studied was hyaluronic acid [N = 22; 26.2%]. In total, 29 different injection treatment groups were utilized. The most common time point for patient evaluation post-injection was 6 months (N = 33 studies; 50.0%), and ranged from 1 week (N = 9 studies; 13.6%) to 7 years (N = 1 study; 1.5%). The most common patient-reported outcome (PRO) measure assessed in the included studies was Western Ontario and McMaster's University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) [N = 44 studies; 66.7%]. For the 114 clinical trials identified, the most common injection treatment studied is platelet-rich plasma in isolation (N = 19; 16.7%). Forty-two different injection treatment types/groups are utilized. The most common PRO measure assessed was WOMAC (N = 77 trials; 67.5%). Overall there were 34 different patient-reported outcome measures used. Conclusions: Research efforts to find the most effective injection therapy for knee OA continue with a tremendous number of injection therapies still being evaluated. Substantial heterogeneity exists in these completed and ongoing trials in terms of patient demographics, OA grades, outcome scores and relatively short-term timing of assessments, with no clear standardization of testing protocol despite proposing to answer the same clinical question. We recommend that studies of this genre going forward be standardized in terms of outcome measures and longer-term follow-up time points, and should incorporate functional assessment evaluations and imaging studies.

Return to Work Following High Tibial Osteotomy With Concomitant Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation.

PURPOSE: To assess the timeline of return to work (RTW) following opening-wedge high tibial osteotomy (HTO) with concomitant osteochondral allograft transplantation (OCA) of the medial femoral condyle. METHODS: Consecutive patients undergoing HTO + OCA due to focal chondral deficiency and varus deformity were retrospectively identified and reviewed at a minimum of 2 years following surgery. Patients completed a subjective work questionnaire, a visual analog scale for pain, Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation, and a satisfaction questionnaire. RESULTS: Twenty-eight patients (average age: 36.0 ± 7.9 years) were included at 6.7 ± 4.1 years postoperatively. Twenty-six patients were employed before surgery and 25 patients (96.2%) returned to work following HTO + OCA. However, only 88.5% of patients were able to return to the same level of occupational intensity by 3.5 ± 2.9 months postoperatively. The rate of RTW to the same occupational intensity for sedentary, light, medium, and heavy intensity occupations was 100%, 100%, 88.9%, and 80% (P = .8), whereas the duration of RTW was 9.0 ± 7.1 months, 1.7 ± 1.4 months, 2.7 ± 0.9 months, and 4.2 ± 1.9 months (P = .006), respectively. Two patients (7.7%) underwent knee replacement by 5.3 ± 3.1 years postoperatively due to progression of osteoarthritis in the medial compartment. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with focal chondral deficiency and varus deformity, HTO + OCA provides a high rate of RTW (96.2%) by 3.5 ± 2.9 months postoperatively. However, patients with greater-intensity occupations may take longer to return to work than those with less physically demanding occupations. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV, Retrospective Case Series.

Return to Sport and Outcomes After Concomitant Lateral Meniscal Allograft Transplant and Distal Femoral Varus Osteotomy.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the time and rate of return to sport (RTS), as well as outcomes, in young and active patients receiving concomitant lateral meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) and distal femoral varus osteotomy (DFVO) for lateral meniscal deficiency and valgus malalignment. METHODS: This was a retrospective study of consecutive patients who underwent concomitant MAT and DFVO by a single surgeon. The exclusion criteria were any concomitant procedures other than cartilage restoration procedures for focal full-thickness cartilage defects of the lateral femoral condyle and less than 2 years of follow-up. At final follow-up, patients were asked to complete a subjective sports questionnaire, the Marx Activity Rating Scale, a visual analog scale (VAS), the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, and a satisfaction questionnaire. Changes in patient-reported outcome measures were assessed using nonparametric statistical testing. RESULTS: A total of 21 patients met the inclusion criteria, of whom 17 were included for analysis at an average follow-up of 7.5 years (range, 2.2-13.3 years). The average age at the time of surgery was 23.3 years (range, 16.9-36.2 years), and 76.5% of patients were female patients. The average VAS score decreased from 5.7 preoperatively to 2.6 postoperatively (P = .02). Of the 15 patients who participated in sports within 3 years prior to their surgical procedure, 14 (82.4%) returned to 1 or more sports at an average of 16.9 months (range, 6-36 months); however, only 46.7% were able to return to their preinjury level of participation or higher. Furthermore, 88.2% of patients reported being satisfied with their sport-related outcomes. Direct rates of sport-specific return were as follows: weightlifting, 100%; skiing, 100%; running, 66.7%; and basketball, 50%. CONCLUSIONS: In our study population, concomitant MAT and DFVO afforded a high rate of RTS at an average of 16.9 months postoperatively, as well as a significant decrease in VAS pain scores. These findings are essential to note when counseling patients receiving these procedures who wish to resume sports and physical activities so that they may expect an extensive recovery process before they can RTS. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, case series.

Return to sport following isolated opening wedge high tibial osteotomy.

BACKGROUND: The purposes of the study are as follows: (1) examine the timeline of return to sport (RTS) following isolated high tibial osteotomy (HTO), (2) evaluate the degree of participation and function upon RTS and (3) identify reasons that patients do not return or discontinue participation in sport activity. METHODS: Patients undergoing isolated HTO were reviewed retrospectively at a minimum of two years post-operatively. Patients completed a subjective sports questionnaire, a visual analog scale for pain, Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation, and a satisfaction questionnaire. RESULTS: Thirty-eight patients (70.4%) were included at an average of 9.0 ±â€¯3.3 years. Thirty-four patients (average age 42.7 ±â€¯7.2 years, 90.0% with a Kellgren-Lawrence grade of III/IV) participated in sports within three years prior to surgery. Eighteen patients (52.9%) returned to the operating room by the time of final follow-up, including 13 patients (38.2%) who underwent salvage arthroplasty by 6.1 ±â€¯3.6 years following HTO. Thirty patients (88.2%) returned to ≥1 sport at an average of 7.5 ±â€¯5.0 months; however only 41.2% were able to return to preinjury level of participation. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with medial osteoarthritis and varus deformity, isolated high tibial osteotomy provides a high rate (88.2%) of return to sport by 7.5 months postoperatively, yet only a fraction of patients returned to their preinjury level. HTO is not a definitive treatment option as nearly 40% of patients underwent knee arthroplasty by 6.1 years post-operatively. Patient expectations regarding return to sport can be appropriately managed with adequate preoperative patient education. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Midlevel Providers in Orthopaedic Surgery: The Patient's Perspective.

Background: Midlevel providers (i.e. physician assistants [PAs] and nurse practitioners [NPs]) are being integrated into systems of care due to the exponentially increasing demand for orthopaedic care. There is a lack of studies which investigate orthopaedic patients' perspectives regarding midlevel providers. Methods: An anonymous questionnaire was administered to 538 first-time patients of four orthopaedic surgeons before their new patient visit. Content included patient perspectives regarding: optimal scope of practice, midlevel provider importance in physician selection, and reimbursement equity with physicians. Results: Of 538 consecutive patients, 415 (77%) responded. 57% were female with an average age of 63.9 ± 11.4 years. Most patients (68%) considered the training background of the surgeon's midlevel provider when initially choosing an orthopaedic surgeon. 34% of all patients perceived PAs to be more highly trained than NPs while 17% perceived the opposite. Patients had specific preferences regarding which services should be surgeon-provided: follow-up for abnormal tests (82%), initial postoperative appointment (81%), new patient visits (81%), and determining the need for advanced diagnostic studies (e.g. MRI) (76%). Patients had specific preferences regarding which services could be midlevel-provided: preoperative teaching (73%), minor in-office procedures (65%), long term postoperative appointments (61%), and prescriptions (61%). Patients lacked a consensus on reimbursement equity for midlevel providers and orthopaedic surgeons, despite most patients (78%) reporting the surgeon provides a higher-quality consultation. Conclusions: As health care becomes increasingly consumer-centric and value-driven, a databased utilization of midlevel staff will allow orthopaedic physicians to optimize efficiency and patient satisfaction. Surgeons may consider our results in division of clinical duties among midlevel staff since patients had specific preferences regarding which services should be physician-provided or midlevel-provided. Orthopaedic surgeons may also consider including the midlevel provider in marketing efforts, as most patients considered the midlevel provider's training background when initially choosing a surgeon and perceived PAs to be more highly trained than NPs. Patients lacked a consensus towards reimbursement equity for orthopaedic surgeons and midlevels, despite reporting that the surgeon provides a higher quality consultation. These findings are important as the midlevel workforce grows in response to the rising demand for orthopaedic care.Level of Evidence: IV.

Establishing Clinically Significant Outcomes After Meniscal Allograft Transplantation.

BACKGROUND: Traditionally, the primary outcome in meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) has been long-term survivorship; however, short-term clinically significant outcomes are necessary to fully evaluate patient improvement after surgery. PURPOSE: To (1) establish the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and patient acceptable symptomatic state (PASS) with respect to patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and (2) evaluate preoperative and intraoperative variables correlated with achieving these threshold values. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2. METHODS: A prospectively maintained institutional registry was queried for all MATs performed between 1999 and 2017. The following PROM scores were collected: International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, Lysholm score, and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). Patients who completed preoperative and postoperative PROMs within a 1-month window were included to calculate the distribution-based MCID at this interval. An anchor question regarding satisfaction with surgery was asked at the same time point and was employed to determine the PASS using nonparametric receiver operating characteristic curve/area under the curve analysis. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to correlate patient demographics, medical history, and concomitant procedures to propensity in achieving the MCID and PASS. RESULTS: A total of 98 patients who underwent MAT met the inclusion/exclusion criteria, of whom 10 underwent concomitant ligamentous procedures, 65 underwent concomitant cartilage procedures, and 7 underwent concomitant realignment procedures. The mean patient age was 29.4 ± 9.0 years, and the mean body mass index (BMI) was 26.8 ± 5.2 kg/m2. The distribution-based MCID and PASS were determined for the Lysholm score (12.3 and 66.5) and IKDC (9.9 and 36.0) as well as the KOOS Pain (9.9 and N/A ), Symptoms (9.7 and 73.0), Activities of Daily Living (9.5 and N/A), Sport (13.3 and N/A), and Quality of Life (14.6 and 53.0) subscales, respectively. A preoperative Short Form Physical Component Summary (SF PCS) score greater than 32.0 was predictive of postoperative satisfaction. Patients with work-related claims had a reduced likelihood of achieving the MCID for the IKDC and the PASS for the KOOS Symptoms. An increased BMI was also associated with failing to achieve the PASS for the KOOS Quality of Life (QOL). CONCLUSION: This study established the MCID and PASS for the Lysholm score, IKDC, and KOOS in patients undergoing MAT. Workers' compensation and higher BMI were associated with failing to achieve clinically significant values. Lower preoperative Lysholm, IKDC, and KOOS scores were predictive of achieving the MCID, while higher preoperative SF PCS scores were associated with achieving satisfaction after MAT.

Use of Allografts in Orthopaedic Surgery: Safety, Procurement, Storage, and Outcomes.

The use of allografts has become a vital option for orthopaedic surgeons in the treatment of a variety of musculoskeletal lesions, ranging from osteochondral defects in the glenohumeral joint to meniscal deficiency in the young athlete. Nevertheless, barriers to treating a patient with an allograft-based procedure may arise from concerns over disease transmission, the navigation of tissue banks that supply allografts, the process of obtaining insurance approval, or optimal storage methods. This review serves to support orthopaedic surgeons in the incorporation of allografts into their practice by quelling these potential concerns. Fresh osteochondral allografts, fresh-frozen meniscal allografts, soft tissue allografts, and off-the-shelf cartilage products are the focus of this review amid broad overviews of allograft safety and tissue bank practices in the United States.

The Biomechanical Effects of Limited Lateral Retinacular and Capsular Release on Lateral Patellar Translation at Various Flexion Angles in Cadaveric Specimens.

PURPOSE: To determine the biomechanical effect of limited lateral retinacular and capsular release on lateral patellar translation as a function of constant force at various knee flexion angles. METHODS: Six pairs of bilateral cadaveric knee specimens (12 knees) were obtained from a tissue bank, dissected, and potted in a perfect lateral position based on fluoroscopy. A direct lateral force was applied to the patella through an eye screw in the midpoint of the lateral patella, and each knee underwent testing in the intact state and after lateral retinacular and capsular release. All knees were tested at 0°, 10°, 20°, 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90° of flexion using a custom-machined jig on a materials testing system with a 20-N lateral force applied to the patella. Patellar displacement was recorded and compared for each specimen. RESULTS: Lateral displacement was significantly greater at all degrees of flexion for the lateral-release specimens than for an intact lateral retinaculum (P < .05). Compared with intact specimens, lateral-release specimens experienced 30% more translation at 0° of flexion and between 6% and 9% more lateral translation at 10° to 90° of flexion. CONCLUSIONS: Lateral retinacular and capsular release results in significantly increased lateral patellar translation at all flexion angles compared with intact specimens. This finding suggests that the lateral retinaculum may function as a significant restraint to lateral translation even with intact medial soft-tissue restraints. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Arthroscopic and open limited lateral retinacular releases should be performed with extreme caution when treating lateral patellar instability given the lateral retinaculum's apparent role as a secondary restraint.