Infection after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Narrative Review of the Literature.

Infection is an uncommon side effect of arthroscopic surgery, and this percentage is higher in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) surgery, where graft and fixation devices are used. Infections can not only lead to high re-admission rates and poor functional recovery of the knee but can also have a significant negative impact on the patient's psychological and economic health, especially in athletes, as it can affect their sports career. It is important to be aware of the many risk factors, especially the manifestation of symptoms. These may sometimes be non-specific to the infectious pathology and common to other situations, such as the presence of a significant intra-articular hematoma. Septic arthritis after ACLR can occur at any time after surgery but typically presents acutely, while late manifestation is relatively rare. Diagnosis of infection is based on patient history, physical examination, laboratory parameters, and analysis of synovial fluid after joint aspiration, which is the gold standard for diagnosing post-operative infection. Once symptoms appear and the diagnosis seems certain, it is necessary to intervene quickly with arthroscopic debridement and long-term antibiotic treatment to try to save the graft and resolve the infectious situation to avoid graft failure and arthrofibrotic sequelae. The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, risk factors, clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation, and current treatment guidelines of septic arthritis after ACLR surgery by analyzing recent literature, in particular meta-analyses and systematic reviews.

Effectiveness of Arthroscopic Debridement, Trapeziectomy, and Joint Replacement for Trapeziometacarpal Joint Osteoarthritis: A Meta-Analysis of Pre and Postoperative Pain Scores.

Trapeziometacarpal joint osteoarthritis (TMJO) affects up to 33% of postmenopausal women, leading to pain, reduced mobility, and grip strength, with initial treatments focusing on non-surgical options like injections, orthoses, and exercises before considering surgery. A major challenge in managing TMJO involves selecting the optimal surgical strategy that is customized to individual clinical conditions. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of three common surgical interventions for TMJO in relieving pain, including arthroscopic debridement (AD), trapeziectomy (TRAP), and joint replacement (JR). PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, and MEDLINE databases were queried according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines for studies that presented pain outcomes following intervention for TMJO. Pain scores were reported preoperatively and postoperatively using the visual analog scale (VAS). Inclusion criteria included studies published in Q1 and Q2 journals and those with a follow-up of > six months. The final selection comprised 18 studies with 763 patients treated with AD (n = 102, 13%), TRAP (n = 428, 56%), and JR (n = 233, 31%) between 2010 and 2023, with a mean follow-up period of 38 ± 28 months. The studies included a total of 24 groups, five of which received AD, 13 of which received TRAP, and six of which received JR. The mean preoperative VAS was 6.7 ± 1.7, and the mean postoperative VAS was 1.7 ± 1.3 for all groups (P < 0.001). The meta-analysis demonstrated a mean preoperative pain score of 5.8 (95% CI, 4.1-7.5) for AD, 6.6 (95% CI, 5.7-7.5) for TRAP, and 7.8 (95% CI, 7.0-8.7) for JR. Postoperatively, there was a mean pain score of 2.2 (95% CI, 0.1-4.2) for AD, 1.4 (95% CI, 1.1-1.7) for TRAP, and 0.9 (95% CI, 0.6-1.2) for JR. This study showed that, if appropriately indicated, joint preservation with AD may be as effective as TRAP and JR for reducing pain associated with TMJO in the short term. However, the rate of conversion or revision should be assessed in future studies.

Arthroscopic ankle surgery in people with haemophilia.

INTRODUCTION: People with haemophilia (PWH) not administered primary haematological prophylaxis since childhood, that is, those treated haematologically on demand or not treated at all, often experience the degeneration of the ankles, leading to pain and functional impairment. AIM: To analyse the outcomes and complications of arthroscopic ankle surgery performed on PWH. METHODS: For this narrative review of the literature, a search was conducted in PubMed on 2, December 2023, using the keywords "haemophilia", "ankle" and "arthroscopy". Of the 29 articles identified, 15 specifically related to ankle arthroscopy in PWH were selected (inclusion criterion). The remaining articles did not meet this requirement (exclusion criterion) and were therefore eliminated. RESULTS: Arthroscopic procedures (arthroscopic synovectomy, debridement and arthrodesis of the ankle) are increasingly used in the surgical treatment of haemophilic ankle arthropathy. Although arthroscopic ankle surgery offers good outcomes in patients with haemophilia, the procedure is not free of complications, which range from 7.9% for arthroscopic ankle debridement to 13.1% in arthroscopic ankle synovectomy and 17.8% in arthroscopic ankle arthrodesis, respectively. The non-union rate of arthroscopic ankle arthrodesis is 7.1% (2/28). CONCLUSION: Although arthroscopic interventions in the haemophilic ankle (synovectomy, debridement, arthrodesis) offer good functional outcomes, they are associated with a non-negligible rate of complications. Arthroscopic ankle surgery in PWH is major surgery and should be treated as such.

Arthroscopic debridement of the ankle in synovitis.

Inflammation and hypertrophy of the ankle joint's synovial lining can occur due to various causes. Chronic pain and degenerative changes may be due to synovitis causing clinical manifestations through traction on the joint capsule. The failure of conservative treatment for at least six months indicates arthroscopic debridement, which can provide significant pain relief without the morbidity of extensive surgical exposures. This study was therefore conducted to establish the functional results of arthroscopic debridement of the ankle joint in synovitis. Fifteen patients with chronic ankle pain who had not responded to conservative treatment for approximately six months were included in the study. Arthroscopic debridement was performed using a shaver blade, followed by a postoperative ankle physiotherapy regimen. Patients were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively using the AOFAS, FADI, and VAS scores, with a mean follow-up period of 26 months. There was a significant improvement in the final clinical outcomes of the patients. The post-operative VAS score improved to 2.20±0.56 (2-4) (p-value=0.001), the AOFAS score was 86±8.25 (65-98) (p-value-0.001), and the FADI Score was 86.93±7.35(70-96) (p-value=0.001). Thirteen patients (86.67%) achieved outstanding or good results, while two had fair results, according to Meislin's criterion. One patient reported a superficial wound infection, which subsided with antibiotic therapy. The study findings indicate that arthroscopic ankle debridement is an efficient method to treat persistent ankle discomfort induced by synovitis, and it has a low postsurgical complications rate, quicker recovery, and less joint stiffness.

High Incidence of Recurrent Patellofemoral Crepitus in Total Knee Arthroplasty Patients Following Arthroscopic Debridement.

Background: Patellofemoral crepitus is an unfavorable complication following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with a posterior-stabilized (PS) implant. The purpose of this study was to study patellar crepitus recurrence and reoperation rates following arthroscopic debridement in patients with a PS-TKA. Methods: Our institution database was used to identify patients with a PS-TKA who underwent arthroscopic debridement for patellofemoral crepitus at our institution. Patients must have had a resurfaced patella and minimum 2 years clinical follow-up from the arthroscopic debridement to be included in the study. Recurrence of patellar crepitus, subsequent operations, and any adverse events were documented. Results: We identified 35 patients who met inclusion criteria with an average follow-up of 8.0 years (range 2.1 to 18.4 years) from their arthroscopic debridement. Nineteen patients (54.3%) had history of a nonarthroplasty knee surgery prior to their TKA. The mean time interval between TKA and arthroscopic debridement for patellar crepitus was 1.6 years (range 0.2 to 5.0 years). Overall, 16 patients (45.7%) developed recurrent crepitus (8 asymptomatic and 8 symptomatic). Six of the symptomatic patients (17.1% of the entire cohort) underwent a repeat surgery for recurrent patellofemoral crepitus. Of theses 6 patients, 3 developed recurrent crepitus but only 1 patient had a third surgical procedure. No postoperative complications were noted following any surgical procedure. The mean knee range of motion following arthroscopic debridement did not change (126.9° preoperatively vs 127.0° postoperatively). Conclusions: Patients experienced high rates of recurrent patellofemoral crepitus following arthroscopic debridement. One-sixth of the patient cohort required a second surgical intervention for recurrent crepitus.

Management of acute periprosthetic knee infection: a comparison of arthroscopic and open debridement.

INTRODUCTION: In acute periprosthetic knee infections, debridement and implant retention (DAIR) is the preferred treatment prior to one- and two-stage revisions. The aim of this study is to compare the outcomes of arthroscopic and open debridement of infected primary total knee arthroplasties (TKA). MATERIAL AND METHODS: We analyzed clinical, laboratory, and antibiotic treatment data, collected in patients with periprosthetic knee infection treated with DAIR at a Swiss Level 1 orthopedic and trauma center over a 10-year period between January 2005 and May 2015. Inclusion criteria were primary total knee arthroplasty and early postoperative or acute hematogenous periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). The primary endpoint was the need for further revision surgery due to persistent infection. The secondary endpoint was the prosthesis salvage in further infection surgeries. RESULTS: Forty-two patients with 44 acute or hematogenous periprosthetic knee infections were included. We recorded 20 recurrent infections (45%) in our study population: 10 (77%) out of 13 in the arthroscopic DAIR group and 10 (32%) out of 31 in the open DAIR group. Two-stage revision, meaning complete removal of the TKA, insertion of a spacer and replantation at a second stage, had to be performed in three patients treated initially arthroscopically (23%) and in six patients treated initially with an open surgical procedure (21%). CONCLUSIONS: Open debridement for acute periprosthetic knee infection shows clear benefits in terms of infection eradication and prosthesis salvage compared to arthroscopic DAIR.

Intramedullary core decompression combined with endoscopic intracapsular decompression and debridement for pre-collapse non-traumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head.

BACKGROUND: The effect of core decompression on the treatment of pre-collapse non-traumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is still limited. This study aimed to explore the efficacy of core decompression combined with intra-articular decompression (debridement of the hip joint and incision of the hip capsule) under hip arthroscopic guidance in patients with pre-collapse ONFH. METHODS: The clinical data of 101 patients with pre-collapse ONFH were analysed retrospectively. Sixty patients (80 hips) received small-diameter multi-channel core decompression alone in first half review period (group B). Forty-one patients (59 hips) were treated with small-diameter multi-channel core decompression combined with intra-articular decompression under hip arthroscopy guidance in second half review period (group A). The surgical duration; intraoperative bleeding; intra-articular pressure(IAP) before and after surgery; length of hospital stay; hospitalisation expenses; visual analogue scale (VAS) score before, 1 week, 4 weeks, 3 months and 1 year after surgery; and Harris score of the hip joint before, 3 months and 1 year after surgery were recorded and compared between group A and group B. X-ray examination was performed every month to observe the collapse of the femoral head within 2 years after surgery, which was compared using the Kaplan-Meier survival curve analysis. RESULTS: When the two groups were compared, the surgical duration was longer and hospitalisation expenses were higher in group A than in group B (P < 0.05). However, the VAS score and the Harris score of the hip joint after surgery improved significantly compared with those before surgery (P < 0.05), which were more apparent in group A than in group B (P < 0.05). X-ray examination revealed that 6 hips in group A and 22 in group B received femoral head collapse at the 2-year follow-up. The survival rate of the femoral head in group A was significantly higher than that in group B (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Small-diameter multi-channel core decompression combined with intra-articular decompression (debridement of the hip joint and incision of the hip capsule) under hip arthroscopic guidance for treating early ONFH can more effectively alleviate joint pain, improve joint function and delay ONFH progression.

Micro-fragmented adipose tissue (mFAT) associated with arthroscopic debridement provides functional improvement in knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial.

PURPOSE: Current conservative treatments for knee OA provide limited benefits, with symptoms relief for a short amount of time. Regenerative medicine approaches such as the use of microfragmented adipose tissue (mFAT) showed promising results in terms of durable effects and the possibility to enhance tissue healing and counteract the progression of the pathology. Nevertheless, up to today, the large part of clinical data about mFAT use refers to uncontrolled studies, especially in the surgical setting. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of mFAT applied in association with arthroscopic debridement (AD) for the treatment of knee OA, in terms of symptoms relief and tissue healing. METHODS: This study is a prospective, randomized controlled clinical trial. 78 patients affected by knee OA grade 3-4 according to KL classification were randomly assigned to AD or AD + mFAT treatment groups. Clinical, radiological and serological assessments were performed at 6 months after treatment. Additional clinical evaluation was performed at the end of the study with an average follow-up of 26.1 ± 9.5 months. VAS, KOOS, WOMAC and SF-12 were also collected at both timepoints, KSS only at 6 months. RESULTS: Treatment with AD + mFAT improved functional scores at both 6 months (KOOS-PS: + 11.7 ± 20.2 vs + 24.4 ± 22.5, in AD and AD + mFAT, respectively, p = 0.024; KSS: + 14.9 ± 15.9 vs + 24.8 ± 23.5, in AD and AD + mFAT, respectively, p = 0.046) and 24-month follow-ups (KOOS-PS Functional subscale: - 2.0 ± 3.5 vs - 4.7 ± 4.2, in AD and AD + mFAT, respectively, p = 0.012). Lower T2-mapping scores were obtained in AD + mFAT-treated group in medial and lateral condyle compartments (p < 0.001). Slight increase was observed in the levels of a serum biomarker of cartilage deposition (PIIINP) in both groups at 6-month follow-up (p = 0.037). CONCLUSION: mFAT improves functional outcome and MRI appearance when used in association with AD, therefore supporting its use in the treatment of knee OA in an arthroscopic setting.

Arthroscopic Debridement and Lavage for Osteoarthritis of the Knee: Results From a Low-Resource Setting.

Introduction Osteoarthritis of the knee is a highly prevalent disease globally, causing strain on healthcare resources and leading to a reduced quality of life. There are many treatments proposed for this condition, from conservative measures like analgesics and physiotherapy to surgical options like arthroscopy and total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Arthroscopic debridement and lavage provide significant improvement in a cohort of patients with particular features and can be a temporizing measure before TKA. This study aimed to investigate the results of this procedure, in a case series in the short-term and mid-term, in a low-resource setting. Methods This was a case series of 20 patients, who presented with clinical and radiographic features of mild to moderate (Kellgren-Lawrence grades I-III) primary osteoarthritis of the knee. Arthroscopic debridement and lavage were performed and the Knee Society Score (KSS) was recorded pre-operatively and post-operatively in the short and mid-term at one month, three months, and twelve months. Statistical analyses was done for correlation, with different variables such as the presence of meniscal pathology, loose bodies, grade of osteoarthritis, malalignment, and body mass index (BMI). Results  The KSS improved at one month, three months, and twelve months for all the patients. The improvement in the KSS scores was associated with varus malalignment of less than 10 degrees, a BMI of less than 25, and the presence of loose bodies. There were no adverse events or complications from this study. Conclusions  There was a significant improvement in a patient cohort with malalignment of less than 10 degrees, BMI of less than 25, meniscal pathology, and loose bodies. We can therefore recommend arthroscopic debridement and lavage as a temporizing measure before TKA in this particular cohort.

Adjunctive platelet-rich plasma and hyaluronic acid injection after arthroscopic debridement in Kellgren-Lawrence grade 3 and 4 knee osteoarthritis.

BACKGROUND: Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common cause of pain and disability, predominantly affecting the knee. The current management of knee OA falls short of completely stopping disease progression, particularly in Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) grade 3 and 4 knee OA. As such, joint replacement is often recommended, although only 15%-33% of candidates accept it. Alternative therapeutic options are still needed to prevent the progression of joint damage and delay the need for knee arthroplasty. AIM: To investigate the effect of adjunctive platelet rich plasma (PRP) and hyaluronic acid (HA) after arthroscopic debridement in KL grade 3 and 4 knee OA. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study used the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score and WOMAC sub-scores (pain, stiffness, and function) to assess 21 patients, grouped according to medical record data of treatment received: Arthroscopic debridement (n = 7); arthroscopic debridement with PRP (n = 7); or arthroscopic debridement with HA (n = 7). WOMAC scores and sub-scores at baseline and at 3 mo and 5 mo posttreatment were recorded. The three-group data were statistically analyzed using the tests of paired t, one-way analysis of variance, and post hoc least significant difference. RESULTS: All three treatment groups showed significant improvements in WOMAC score and sub-scores from before treatment to 3 mo and 5 mo after treatment. However, the arthroscopic debridement with PRP treatment group, in particular, showed a significantly lower WOMAC pain score than the group who received arthroscopic debridement alone at 5 mo after the procedure (P = 0.03). CONCLUSION: Compared to arthroscopic debridement alone, adjunctive PRP after arthroscopic debridement significantly lessened the patients' pain symptom.

Functional Outcome of Arthroscopic Debridement of Mucoid Degeneration of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament.

BACKGROUND: Mucoid degeneration of the anterior cruciate ligament is a rare pathological condition. This is a condition where the anterior cruciate ligament becomes bulky and seems like a celery stalk appearance. The most common symptom is a pain in the posterior aspect of the knee and consistent clinical finding is a mechanical block to an extension of the knee. This study aims to find out the functional outcome of arthroscopic debridement of this entity. METHODS: This is a prospective observational study from Jan 1st 2021 to Dec 31st 2021 done in 17 patients. The outcome was measured in terms of preoperative and postoperative visual analogue scale, Tegner Lysholm score and International Knee Documentation Committee score. RESULTS: Eleven females and six males were included in this study. The mean age of the patients was 51.41 years. Arthroscopic debridement of mucoid degeneration of the anterior cruciate ligament was done. Preoperative and 6 months postoperative VAS score was 8.12 and 2.00 respectively (p<0.05), preoperative and 6 months postoperative Tegner Lysholm score was 44.00 and 86.29 respectively (p<0.05), and preoperative and 6 months postoperative IKDC score was 29.06 and 79.94 respectively (p<0.05) Conclusions: Arthroscopic debridement serves as an effective way of treatment of mucoid degeneration of the anterior cruciate ligament.

The eradication rate of infection in septic knee arthritis according to the Gächter Classification: a systematic review.

Introduction: Knee septic arthritis rapidly damages the knee joint. Gächter described a classification of joint infections based on arthroscopic findings: an arthroscopic staging of the common disease has prognostic and therapeutic consequences. The aim of this systematic review was to analyze the application of the Gächter classification system to knee septic arthritis, evaluating prognostic and therapeutic implications of this classification. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive electronic search of the literature was performed. The following search terms were used: (Arthroscopy* OR Arthrotom* OR Aspiration) AND Knee AND Septic AND Arthritis. The study reported the Gächter classification in septic knee arthritis and the eradication rate according to the type. The primary endpoint is the eradication rate of septic knee arthritis according to the Gächter sort. Secondary endpoints are surgical procedures according to Gächter classification and the rate of re-operations. Results: Seven studies were included. The overall eradication rate of knee septic arthritis ranged from 90% to 100%: 95%-100% Gächter I; 97%-100% Gächter II; 67%-100% Gächter III; 50%-100% Gächter IV. Surgical treatments for knee septic arthritis included arthroscopic irrigation alone, articular irrigation, and debridement in knee arthroscopy or knee arthrotomy according to Gächter stage. However, 28% required re-operations for persistent infection: secondary procedures included further irrigation and debridement with the arthroscopic or arthrotomic approach. Conclusion: Gächter classification showed a crucial prognostic role in predicting the outcome of surgical treatment of septic knee arthritis. Regardless of the procedure performed, a prompt operation and an accurate debridement of the synovial membrane are the most critical factors for eradicating infection and good clinical outcomes. Level of Evidence: Level II, prognostic study.

[Arthroscopic debridement combined with platelet-rich plasma injection for the treatment of Kellgren-Lawrence gradeâ -â ¢ knee osteoarthritis].

OBJECTIVE: To explore clinical effect of arthroscopic debridement combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection for Kellgren-Lawrence(K-L) gradeⅠ-Ⅲ knee osteoarthritis (KOA) . METHODS: Totally 117 patients with KOA who underwent arthroscopic debridement combined with injection from November 2015 to January 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. According to different injection drugs, the patients were divided into sodium hyaluronate group(group A) and PRP group(group B). In group A, there were 60 patients, including 27 males and 33 females, aged from 49 to 67 years old with an average age of (54.1±4.8) years old;12 patients with gradeⅠ, 23 patients with gradeⅡand 25 patients with grade Ⅲ according to K-L clssification, 2 ml(20 g) sodium hyaluronate was injected into knee joint after intraoperative, 1, 2, 3 weeks after operation for 4 times. In group B, there were 57 patients, including 25 males and 32 females, aged from 47 to 70 years old with an average of (55.8±5.0) years old, 10 patients with gradeⅠ, 20 patients with gradeⅡand 27 patients with grade Ⅲ according to K-L classification, injected 5 ml PRP at the same time. Postoperative complications was recorded between two groups. Postoperative visual analogue scale(VAS) and Lysholm score at 3, 6, 12 months were used to evaluate improvement of knee pain and joint function. RESULTS: All patients were followed up for 12 to 19 months with an average of (14.1±1.6) months. There was no significant difference in postopertaive complications between group A and group B (P>0.05). Postoperative VAS score in group A at 3, 6, 12 months were 3.0±0.8, 2.0±0.8, 2.6±0.9 respectively, and 2.9±0.8, 1.9±0.7, 2.2±0.8 in group B respectively; and no differnece at 3 and 6 months after operation between two groups (P<0.05), while VAS score in group B was higher than group A at 12 months after operation(P<0.05). Postoperative Lysholm score in group A at 1, 6, 12 months (86.6±1.8, 93.1±2.0, 86.7±1.7) were lower than group B(88.9±1.9, 95.0±2.0, 89.0±1.9)(P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic debridement combined with sodium hyaluronate or PRP injection for K-L gradeⅠ-Ⅲ KOA could effectively relieve pain and improve joint function with higher safety in short term, but the medium-long-term effect of PRP injection is stable.

Intraarticular injection of microfragmented adipose tissue plus arthroscopy in isolated primary patellofemoral osteoarthritis is clinically effective and not affected by age, BMI, or stage of osteoarthritis.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to report the clinical and functional results of a series of patients with isolated primary patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PFOA) treated with intraarticular injection of microfragmented autologous adipose tissue plus knee arthroscopy. The results were also analyzed in relation to the age and body mas index (BMI) of patients, and to the stage of PFOA. METHODS: Twenty-three patients with early-to-moderate (stage 1-3 according to the Iwano classification system) PFOA who received this treatment were retrospectively analyzed, with a mean follow-up of 22.1 ± 4.2 months. Patients were assessed using the International Knee Society (IKS) knee and function and visual analog scale (VAS) scores, and relative to their capacity for climbing stairs. Differences in improvements of IKS and VAS scores in relation to age (< 60 versus ≥ 60 years), BMI (< 30 versus ≥ 30 kg/m2), and stage of PFOA (stages 1-2 versus stage 3) were finally analyzed. RESULTS: The mean IKS knee score significantly improved from 35.6 ± 14.9 points preoperatively to 61.9 ± 17.8 points at the latest follow-up, while the mean IKS function score significantly improved from 52.0 ± 14.7 points preoperatively to 82.3 ± 19.1 points at the latest follow-up. The mean VAS score significantly decreased from 8.7 ± 2.2 preoperatively to 5.2 ± 2.5 at the latest follow-up. A significant improvement in the capacity to climb stairs was found. No significant differences in improvements of IKS knee and function and VAS scores were found in relation to age, BMI, or stage of PFOA. CONCLUSION: Intraarticular injection of microfragmented autologous adipose tissue following arthroscopic debridement significantly improved overall clinical and functional scores in patients with early or moderate isolated primary PFOA at a mean follow-up of almost 2 years. Improvements were not significantly affected by age, BMI, or stage of PFOA. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, retrospective case series.

Arthroscopic debridement for infection after fracture fixation (IAFF) of the ankle: A case report.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Infection after fracture fixation (IAFF) is one of the most challenging issues for the lower-middle class socioeconomic. It is also related to unsatisfactory outcome of the treatment. Arthroscopy usually used to treat joint disease, but the evidence of arthroscopic management in IAFF is still limited. CASE PRESENTATION: We present a case of 54-year-old female with IAFF of the ankle. An arthroscopic debridement and soft tissue release procedure were performed in this patient in one stage because the irrigation and debridement were sufficient. It showed a good result good functional outcome. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: The aims of IAFF treatment are to eradicate the infection, promote healing of soft tissue, prevent osteomyelitis, restore the joint function, and fracture consolidation. Arthroscopy in IAFF has been found to be safe and effective. In this case, arthroscopy was done in one stage because the debridement and irrigation were sufficient while the delay of the release would result in further pain and morbidity for the patient. CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic debridement with simultaneous release of impingement and stiffness is a novel, safe, and promising option in to eliminate both IAFF and its further complications of the ankle region.

Arthroscopic debridement of the dorsal capsule in intraarticular distal radius fractures: does it provide superior outcomes?

INTRODUCTION: Distal radius fractures (DRFs) are very common. One of the most significant complications after intraarticular DRF is arthrofibrosis with loss of wrist motion and pain. Wrist arthroscopy has become increasingly popular in the treatment of DRF with the advantage of good visualization of the joint surface and soft tissue injuries. In intraarticular DRFs injuries of the dorsal capsule are a characteristic finding which potentially cause loss of wrist motion. In this study, we investigated if arthroscopic debridement of dorsal capsule injuries at time of surgical fixation provides superior outcomes compared to the same treatment without debridement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between 2013 and 2017, we included 42 patients who underwent arthroscopy-assisted palmar plating for intraarticular DRFs in a prospective randomized controlled study. In group A (intervention group), the dorsal capsule tears were debrided during primary surgery, while in group B these were left in place. Active range of motion (AROM), grip strength, subjective outcomes and radiographic results were assessed 3, 6 and 12 months after primary surgery. A subgroup analysis was performed for patient age, fracture severity and duration of immobilization. RESULTS: Arthroscopic debridement of the dorsal capsule improved AROM in patients over 60 years of age, more severe fractures (AO 23 C2/C3) and prolonged postoperative immobilization for more than two weeks, while it was not relevant for younger patients with simple fractures and short immobilization. CONCLUSIONS: Debridement of the injured dorsal capsule in arthroscopic-assisted surgical treatment of intraarticular DRFs can improve surgical performance and optimize patient outcomes in a specific subgroup of patients.

Arthroscopic debridement for management of massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears: a systematic review of outcomes.

Background: Surgical management of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears remains controversial. Arthroscopic debridement (AD) has shown promising results especially in the population older than 65 years; however, there is no consensus on the benefits of various AD procedures. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the functional midterm to long-term outcomes in patients treated with AD in combination with subacromial decompression, biceps tenotomy, tuberoplasty, or bursectomy, without repair of the rotator cuff tear. Methods: A comprehensive search was performed in PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), and Cochrane databases for studies reporting clinical outcomes of AD of massive rotator cuff tears. Quality was determined using the Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies (MINORS) criteria by two independent reviewers. Pooled frequency-weighted means and standard deviations were calculated for patient-reported outcomes. Results: Sixteen articles containing 643 patients and 662 shoulders met the eligibility criteria. The mean age at the time of surgery was 65.9 ± 4.4 years with a mean follow-up period of 46.5 ± 27.3 months. There was notable clinically significant improvement across all patient-reported outcome scores postoperatively: Constant 70.4 ± 8.9 (P value = .06), University of California, Los Angeles ultrasonography 26.7 ± 5.2 (P value = .001), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score 71.7 ± 2.1 (P value = .12), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score 35.3, and visual analog score 1.7 ± 0.9. Forty-nine patients (7%) required reoperation, which most commonly was a reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for the development of rotator cuff arthropathy. Conclusion: Arthroscopic debridement with a combination of subacromial decompression, tuberoplasty, subacromial bursectomy, and biceps tenotomy, for treatment of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears, produces good functional outcomes and improvement in pain at mid to long term follow up for the low-demand population greater than 65 years of age looking for pain relief over substantial increase in function.

Arthroscopic debridement combined with platelet-rich plasma injection for the treatment of Kellgren-Lawrence gradeⅠ-Ⅲ knee osteoarthritis / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To explore clinical effect of arthroscopic debridement combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection for Kellgren-Lawrence(K-L) gradeⅠ-Ⅲ knee osteoarthritis (KOA) .@*METHODS@#Totally 117 patients with KOA who underwent arthroscopic debridement combined with injection from November 2015 to January 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. According to different injection drugs, the patients were divided into sodium hyaluronate group(group A) and PRP group(group B). In group A, there were 60 patients, including 27 males and 33 females, aged from 49 to 67 years old with an average age of (54.1±4.8) years old;12 patients with gradeⅠ, 23 patients with gradeⅡand 25 patients with grade Ⅲ according to K-L clssification, 2 ml(20 g) sodium hyaluronate was injected into knee joint after intraoperative, 1, 2, 3 weeks after operation for 4 times. In group B, there were 57 patients, including 25 males and 32 females, aged from 47 to 70 years old with an average of (55.8±5.0) years old, 10 patients with gradeⅠ, 20 patients with gradeⅡand 27 patients with grade Ⅲ according to K-L classification, injected 5 ml PRP at the same time. Postoperative complications was recorded between two groups. Postoperative visual analogue scale(VAS) and Lysholm score at 3, 6, 12 months were used to evaluate improvement of knee pain and joint function.@*RESULTS@#All patients were followed up for 12 to 19 months with an average of (14.1±1.6) months. There was no significant difference in postopertaive complications between group A and group B (P>0.05). Postoperative VAS score in group A at 3, 6, 12 months were 3.0±0.8, 2.0±0.8, 2.6±0.9 respectively, and 2.9±0.8, 1.9±0.7, 2.2±0.8 in group B respectively; and no differnece at 3 and 6 months after operation between two groups (P<0.05), while VAS score in group B was higher than group A at 12 months after operation(P<0.05). Postoperative Lysholm score in group A at 1, 6, 12 months (86.6±1.8, 93.1±2.0, 86.7±1.7) were lower than group B(88.9±1.9, 95.0±2.0, 89.0±1.9)(P<0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#Arthroscopic debridement combined with sodium hyaluronate or PRP injection for K-L gradeⅠ-Ⅲ KOA could effectively relieve pain and improve joint function with higher safety in short term, but the medium-long-term effect of PRP injection is stable.

Comparison of Arthroscopic Debridement and Repair in the Treatment of Ellman Grade II Bursal-side Partial-thickness Rotator Cuff Tears: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of arthroscopic debridement and repair in treating Ellman grade II bursal-side partial-thickness rotator cuff tears. METHODS: This is a single-center, prospective, randomized controlled trial. From September 2017 to April 2019, 78 patients underwent arthroscopic debridement (35 patients) or repair (43 patients) due to Ellman grade II bursal-side partial-thickness rotator cuff tears. Twenty-six men and 52 women were included in the study, with an average age of 56.31 years (range, 42 to 74 years). After the acromioplasty was formed, the debridement group only performed stump refreshing and surrounding soft tissue cleaning, while the repair group converted the partial tears into full-thickness tears and then sutured them by single row or suture bridge technique. The visual analogue scale (VAS), Constant-Murley shoulder (CMS), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), and University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) scores were used to evaluate clinical results preoperatively and at 6, 12, and 18 months postoperatively. Magnetic resonance imaging was used to assess the integrity of the rotator cuff, muscle atrophy, and fat infiltration. RESULTS: A total of 85 patients met the inclusion criteria and were randomly divided into the debridement group (41 patients) and the repair group (43 patients). During the 18-month follow-up period, a total of seven patients were lost to follow-up. The functional scores of both groups were significantly improved: the VAS score decreased 5.06 and 4.63 in the debridement group (5.77 preoperative to 0.71 postoperative) and the repair group (5.49 to 0.86) (P < 0.05). Moreover, the CMS, ASES, UCLA scores increased 51.63, 58.24, 20.57 in debridement group (39.46 to 91.09, 34.14 to 92.38, 13.29 to 33.86), and increased 48.14, 60.53, 20.93 in repair group (43.63 to 91.77, 33.10 to 93.63, 12.58 to 33.51) (P < 0.05). No significant differences were found in functional scores between the two groups at 6, 12, and 18 months postoperatively (P > 0.05). The magnetic resonance imaging showed no re-tears, and no difference was observed in the degree of muscle atrophy and fat infiltration between the two groups (P > 0.05). Except for four cases of shoulder stiffness, no other obvious surgery-related complications were found. CONCLUSION: For Ellman grade II bursal-side partial-thickness rotator cuff tears, both the debridement and repair groups achieved good results during 18-month follow-ups, with no difference between the two groups.