Can elbow arthroscopic posterior portals damage the anconeus nerve? A cadaveric study.

Background: Neurological injuries are among the most reported complications of elbow arthroscopy. Several cadaveric studies have assessed the relationship between nerves and arthroscopic portals. To our knowledge, no studies evaluated the anconeus nerve. This anatomic study aimed to identify the course of the anconeus nerve and to investigate its anatomic relation with posterior elbow portals, providing useful information to preserve it during surgery. Methods: Twelve fresh frozen elbows were dissected to isolate the radial nerve and its branch to the anconeus muscle. Distances between the anconeus nerve, olecranon tip, and lateral epicondyle were measured. Posterior, posterolateral and soft spot portals were created and their proximity to the nerve was measured. Results: The anconeus nerve showed an average distance from the lateral epicondyle of 19.67 mm (SD 1.44 mm) and from the olecranon of 22.33 mm (SD 1.72 mm). The posterolateral portal was 1 mm medial to the nerve. The soft spot portal was located where the nerve enters the muscle. Discussion: An important finding of this study was the closeness between the anconeus nerve and the posterolateral and soft spot portals, resulting in a high risk of nerve damage. More medial placement of the posterolateral portal may avoid anconeus nerve injury and consequent muscle denervation.

Arthroscopic Percutaneous Fixation of Mason Type 2 Radial Head Fractures.

Background: Management of radial head fractures around the elbow with open techniques can predispose to edema, postoperative pain, and adhesions. The resultant limitation in elbow range of motion negatively affects functional outcomes. Rehabilitation is then rendered a challenge in a joint with proneness to stiffness. Hypothesis: Arthroscopic percutaneous fixation of Mason type 2 radial head fractures would provide satisfactory radiological and clinical outcomes. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: A total of 24 patients diagnosed with isolated Mason type 2 radial head fractures at a single institution between February 1, 2021, and December 31, 2021, received arthroscopic percutaneous fixation by headless screws. Functional evaluation included Mayo Elbow Performance Score and postoperative elbow range of motion measurements. Radiological evaluation was performed using elbow radiographs and computed tomography scans. Patients were evaluated for a minimum of 24 months. Results: This study included 12 male and 12 female participants with a mean age of 37.29 ± 11.93 years. At the end of the follow-up period (mean, 27.75 months; range, 24-32 months), the mean elbow flexion was 140.17° ± 8.21° and the extension deficit was 4.17° ± 3.81°. The Mayo Elbow Performance Score revealed 21 patients with excellent results and 3 patients with good results. All patients returned to preinjury activities at a mean time of 3.1 months (range, 2-6 months) postoperatively. Union was reached in all patients at a mean time of 7.63 weeks (range, 6-10 weeks). No neurological complications or reoperations were reported at the end of the follow-up period. Conclusion: Arthroscopic fixation was demonstrated to be a valid and valuable technique for managing isolated Mason type 2 radial head fractures. It allowed for accurate reduction without the need for soft tissue dissection, resulting in excellent clinical outcomes.

[Autologous minced cartilage implantation for focal cartilage lesions of the humeral capitellum]. / Autologes Minced Cartilage bei fokalen Knorpelschäden des Capitulum humeri.

OBJECTIVE: The goal of minced cartilage implantation (MCI) is to restore an intact cartilage surface in focal osteochondral lesions of the humeral capitellum. INDICATIONS: The indications for MCI are limited osteochondral lesions at the humeral capitellum, also at the head of the radius, with intact cartilage border as well as in situ or a completely detached fragment, and free joint bodies (grade II-grade V according to Hefti). CONTRAINDICATIONS: Contraindications for MCI are already concomitant or associated cartilage damage as well as bilateral osteochondral lesions and insufficient available cartilage material. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: After diagnostic arthroscopy to detect possible concomitant pathologies and to exclude already corresponding cartilage lesions, the arthroscope is flipped posterolaterally over the high posterolateral portal and a second portal is created under visualization via the soft spot. Initially, debridement of the focal cartilage defect, assessment of the marginal zone, and/or salvage of free joint bodies. Using a smooth shaver and the filter provided, the partially or even completely detached cartilage fragment is unidirectionally fragmented under continuous suction. The remaining defect with a stable marginal zone is cleanly curetted, and the joint is completely dried. The fragmented cartilage collected in the filter is bonded to a membrane using autologous conditioned plasma (ACP) and then arthroscopically applied to the defect via a cannula, sealed using thrombin and fibrin. POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: Postoperative immobilization in a cast for at least 24 h is required. Afterwards, free exercise of the joint is possible, but no loading should be maintained for 6 weeks. Return to sport after 3 months. RESULTS: Good to very good clinical and MRI morphologic results are already evident in the short-term course. Prospective and retrospective multicenter studies are needed to evaluate future long-term results.

The temperature profile in elbow arthroscopy using radiofrequency ablation.

INTRODUCTION: Over the last decades, arthroscopic surgery has become increasingly relevant as its minimally invasive approach offers many benefits. To investigate the risks of orthoscopic surgery at the elbow, this study aimed to investigate the development of temperatures in elbow joints while performing radiofrequency ablation in arthroscopic surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed standard arthroscopic surgeries with posterolateral, transtricipital and anterolateral approaches on seven cadaveric elbows and performed ablation on predefined locations with or without irrigation. Two temperature probes were positioned into the olecranon fossa and between the ulnar nerve and the medial joint capsule. The temperature data were recorded using a real-time data logger. A bipolar radiofrequency ablation (bRFA) device was used at the medial and lateral recess and in the fossa olecrani over a defined period. Data was then analyzed using Matlab. RESULTS: Using bRFA without irrigation results in rapidly increasing temperature within the joint. A significant temperature increase was found within only 5 s without irrigation (p = 0.0052) in the fossa olecrani. We did not observe critical temperatures above 41 °C close to the ulnar nerve within 30 s under constant irrigation (p = 0.0747). CONCLUSIONS: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) can be safely used in elbow arthroscopy with irrigation. The continuous use without irrigation should be limited to 3 s. Despite the anatomical proximity of the ulnar nerve and capsule, we were able to show that a possible rise in temperature most likely does not affect the ulnar nerve.

It is time to move forward: a bibliometric analysis of top 50 cited articles in elbow arthroscopy.

OBJECTIVES: To analyze the bibliometric characteristics of the top 50 cited articles in elbow arthroscopy. METHODS: The Web of Science Core Collection was employed to systematically retrieve publications related to elbow arthroscopy. Subsequently, the top 50 cited articles meeting the predefined inclusion criteria were meticulously documented and subjected to comprehensive bibliometric analysis. RESULTS: The top 50 cited articles spanned the years 1999-2017, with the 2010s emerging as the most prolific decade. Citations per article varied from 24 to 211, and citation density ranged from 1.61 to 9.17. The United States dominated in article production and citations. Predominantly, the articles took the form of case series and expert opinions, with a notable absence of level I or II evidence. The keywords with the highest frequencies were "arthrofibrosis," "complications," and "release." These keywords formed five main clusters: stiff elbow, osteoarthritis, osteochondritis dissecans, and lateral epicondylitis. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of the top 50 cited articles in elbow arthroscopy comprised case series exhibiting Level IV or V evidence. Despite a dynamic development post-2010, elbow arthroscopy articles showed lower mean citations and citation density compared to other joints, potentially influenced by concerns about complications. However, with the increasing prevalence of elbow arthroscopy procedures, it is anticipated that higher-level articles, particularly those focusing on complications and exploring additional indications, will supersede some of the articles included in this analysis. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Reliability and Usefulness of YouTube as a Source of Informative Media for Arthroscopic Tennis Elbow Surgery: A Systematic Review of the Published Videos.

Aims and Objectives: Over the last decade, YouTube has been extensively used as a learning tool for both physicians and patients, but the reliability of this information remains questionable. The purpose of this study was to look for the reliability and quality of videos on tennis elbow arthroscopy on YouTube. Materials and Methods: We used three search terms on YouTube "tennis elbow arthroscopic surgery," "Arthroscopic ECRB release," and "Arthroscopic debridement for tennis elbow," and screened the first 50 videos according to popularity. The videos were included from 2009 to date. Only videos in the English language were included. Repeated videos and videos without sound were excluded. A total of 74 videos were selected for this study and reliability was checked with DISCERN and journal of the American medical association (JAMA) scores. The quality was assessed with the Global Quality Score Criteria (GQSC) score and TEARS (a novel score). Popularity was tested with the video power index (VPI). A pilot study was conducted using 20 videos to validate the TEARS score. Results: In the pilot study, TEARS showed results in accordance with other scores used. The average number of views was 41,644.97, and the average duration was 5.03 ± 3.39 years. The mean value of DISCERN and JAMA was found to be 21.47 ± 6.28 and 1.05 ± 0.92, respectively. GQSC, TEARS, and VPI were found to be 1.70 ± 0.82, 4.17 ± 2.62, and 769,936.9 ± 6,538,851.37. Conclusion: Most of the videos were educational and physicians were targeted. The USA was the major contributor to such videos. The reliability and quality of these videos were found to be of poor quality. The video popularity was however found to be relatively high. The inter-observer reliability was good. Based on the findings, we conclude that the videos are not reliable and could not be used for learning.

Arthroscopic release and decortication provide earlier return to work with similar patient satisfaction compared to continued intensive conservative therapy for recalcitrant tennis elbow: a retrospective observational study.

INTRODUCTION: Tennis elbow management has primarily been conservative over the years with over 90% of the cases being managed conservatively. Surgical intervention may be necessary only for symptomatic recalcitrant cases of tennis elbow cases. However, there are gaps in the literature when it comes to comparison of the return to pre-operative return to their work and level of activities among patients who undergo arthroscopic management and those who receive conservative management. METHODS: A retrospective observational study was conducted to compare 23 patients receiving continued intensive conservative (CIC) management in group 1 with 24 patients undergoing arthroscopic release of the extensor carpi radialis brevis and lateral epicondyle decortication (ARD) in group 2. The study had a minimum follow-up period of 3.5 years. The researchers compared the groups in terms of return to work (RTW) at the same intensity or lower level and any changes in their previous work. Objective grip strength and patient-reported outcome measures, such as post-intervention satisfaction level (rated on a scale of 0-100) and visual analog scale (VAS) for residual elbow pain, were also compared between the two groups. RESULTS: Return to work (RTW) occurred significantly earlier in group 2 (mean 6.13 months) compared to group 1 (mean 4.64 months), and a greater number of patients in group 2 (13/24, 54.2%) were able to return to the same of work. Although not statistically significant, the ARD group exhibited comparable patient satisfaction (p = 0.62) and visual analog scale (VAS) scores for residual elbow pain (p = 0.67). Grip strength was comparable (p = 0.084, 0.121) between the affected and unaffected sides of the bilateral upper extremities and among both groups of patients. CONCLUSION: The use of ARD for RTE (recalcitrant tennis elbow) indicates a significantly earlier return to work (RTW) at the same or lower intensity level compared to the standard CIC therapy protocol. Objective grip strength was comparable to the non-affected side and among the two groups of patients receiving two different management modalities. Comparable patient-reported satisfaction and residual lateral elbow pain were also noted among both the groups. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Retrospective, comparative study, level III.

Accuracy of Instrument Portal Placement Using a Custom-Made 3D-Printed Aiming Device versus Free Hand Technique in Canine Elbow Arthroscopy.

While the insertion of the arthroscope into the elbow joint is relatively easy based on anatomical landmarks, obtaining a correctly located instrument portal is often difficult. Therefore, the goal of the study was to create a 3D-printed prototype of an aiming device for the guiding needle, and to check its feasibility. The study included fresh cadavers of 15 dogs, 9 males and 6 females, aged from 1 to 6 years (median 4 years) with body weight from 17 to 57 kg (median 30 kg). On each dog, we compared the number of attempts needed to obtain optimal direction of the guiding needle for the portal, using one elbow the prototype, and performing this as control on the opposite joint without the prototype (with a free hand). The number of attempts needed was significantly lower using the prototype (median 1) than on the control elbows (median 2, p = 0.009). The number of attempts was not correlated with the body weight neither in the case of experimental (Rs = 0.18, p = 0.532) nor control elbows (Rs = 0.13, p = 0.642). We conclude that the used prototype seems to be helpful in elbow joint arthroscopy.

The role of arthroscopy in the management of adult elbow trauma.

Fractures around the elbow are often challenging to treat and in most cases require an extensive approach. Since the development of elbow arthroscopy, most authors have pointed out the potential advantages of a less invasive technique that can be useful for visualization and reduction of the articular fragments with an eventual percutaneous fixation. Arthroscopic techniques provide a limited exposure that may lead to a faster wound healing, lower rate of complications and thus, better recovery of range of motion. However, elbow arthroscopy is also a demanding technique, especially in a swollen and fractured joint, and it is not exempt of risks. The overall rate of complications has been rated from 1.5% to 11% and nerve injury rates from 1.26-7.5%.The objective of this review is to present the arthroscopic setup and general surgical technique for the management of elbow trauma and to define some clear indications. Patient positioning and operating room display is key in order to obtain success. In addition to the arthroscopic equipment, fluoroscopy is almost always necessary for percutaneous fixation and precise preparation is mandatory. In the last decade, literature regarding new portals or surgical tips for arthroscopic treatment of elbow fractures have been published.The main indications for fracture arthroscopic-assisted fixation are those articular fractures involving the coronoid, distal humerus shear fractures in the coronal plane (trochlear and capitellum fractures) and, more controversially, those affecting the radial head. The treatment of these type of fractures all arthroscopically is exponentially demanding as it might also require ligament repair. For coronoid fractures, it can be useful in Morrey type II and III, and O´Driscoll anteromedial facet fractures associated to a posteromedial instability pattern that also require a repair of the LCL. Although excellent results have been published, comparative series are scarce. Radial head fractures can also be approached arthroscopically in simple non-comminute fractures that can be fixed percutaneously.In conclusion, arthroscopy of the elbow is an excellent tool to better understand and visualize articular fractures of the elbow. However, despite the advances in surgical technique, whether it improves clinical and radiological results is still to be proven.

Arthroscopic-Assisted Fracture Fixation About the Elbow.

Arthroscopic-assisted fracture fixation can be used for some adult elbow fractures. In particular, for articular fractures of the anterior elbow (coronoid/capitellum), elbow arthroscopy can provide excellent visualization of fracture fragments using a less invasive surgical exposure. Meticulous adherence to safe techniques and utilization of specialized equipment can help maximize safety and facilitate reproducible surgical results.

Needle arthroscopy of the elbow through an anterior transbrachial portal.

Background: Current innovation in needle arthroscopy is improving the safety of anterior portals around the elbow. This study evaluated the proximity to the radial nerve, median nerve, and brachial artery on cadaveric specimens of an anterior portal used for elbow arthroscopy. Methods: Ten fresh-frozen adult cadaveric extremities were used. After marking the cutaneous references, the NanoScope cannula was introduced just lateral to the biceps tendon, through the brachialis muscle and the anterior capsule. Elbow arthroscopy was performed. Dissection was then carefully performed on all specimens with the NanoScope cannula in place. The shortest distance from the cannula to the median nerve, radial nerve, and brachial artery was measured with a handheld sliding digital caliper. Results: The cannula was an average of 12.92 mm away from the radial nerve, 22.27 mm from the median nerve, and 16.8 mm from the brachial artery. Needle arthroscopy performed through this portal allows complete visualization of the anterior compartment of the elbow, as well as direct visualization of the posterolateral compartment. Conclusion: Needle arthroscopy of the elbow through an anterior transbrachialis portal is safe for the main neurovascular structures. In addition, this technique allows complete visualization of the anterior and posterolateral compartments of the elbow through the humerus-radius-ulna space.

Radiologically severe osteoarthritis is related to worse clinical outcomes after arthroscopic osteocapsular arthroplasty in primary elbow osteoarthritis at medium-term follow-up: a retrospective cohort study.

HYPOTHESIS: This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes after arthroscopic osteocapsular arthroplasty (OCA) at medium-term follow-up according to the radiologic severity of primary elbow osteoarthritis (OA) and assess serial changes in clinical outcomes in each group. METHODS: Patients treated from January 2010 to April 2019 with arthroscopic OCA for primary elbow OA with a minimum of 3 years' follow-up were retrospectively assessed regarding range of motion (ROM), visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, and Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) preoperatively, at short-term follow-up (3-12 months postoperatively), and at medium-term follow-up (≥3 years after surgery). Preoperative computed tomography was performed to evaluate the radiologic severity of OA using the Kwak classification. Clinical outcomes were compared according to the radiologic severity of OA by their absolute values and the number of patients achieving the patient acceptable symptomatic state (PASS). Serial changes in the clinical outcomes in each subgroup were also assessed. RESULTS: Of the 43 patients, 14, 18, and 11 were classified as the stage I, II, and III groups, respectively; the mean follow-up duration was 71.3 ± 28.9 months, and the mean age was 56.5 ± 7.2 years. At medium-term follow-up, the stage I group had a better ROM arc (stage I, 114° ± 14°; stage II, 100° ± 23°; and stage III, 97° ± 20°; P = .067) and VAS pain score (stage I, 0.9 ± 1.3; stage II, 1.8 ± 2.1; and stage III, 2.4 ± 2.1; P = .168) than the stage II and III groups without reaching statistical significance, whereas the stage I group had a significantly better MEPS (stage I, 93.2 ± 7.5; stage II, 84.7 ± 11.9; and stage III, 78.6 ± 15.2; P = .017) than the stage III group. The percentages of patients achieving the PASS for the ROM arc (P = .684) and VAS pain score (P = .398) were comparable between the 3 groups; however, the percentage achieving the PASS for the MEPS was significantly higher in the stage I group than in the stage III group (100.0% vs. 54.5%, P = .016). During serial assessment, all clinical outcomes tended to improve at the short-term follow-up. Compared with the short-term period, the ROM arc tended to decrease at the medium-term follow-up whereas the VAS pain score and MEPS overall did not show significant changes. CONCLUSION: After arthroscopic OCA, the stage I group showed an overall better ROM arc and pain score than the stage II and III groups at medium-term follow-up, whereas the stage I group showed a significantly better MEPS and higher percentage of patients achieving the PASS for the MEPS than the stage III group.

Good outcomes of elbow arthroscopy-assisted absorbable screw fixation for capitellum fracture of the humerus in children: a case series.

Background: Capitellum fractures are rare coronal fractures of the distal humerus which accounts for 6% of all distal humeral fractures and only 1% of all elbow fractures. The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy and complications of arthroscopically assisted reduction and fixation with absorbable screws for capitellar fracture of the humerus in children. Methods: This was a retrospective case series study, which considered four patients (4 elbows), ranging from 10 to 15 years old, who were treated by arthroscopic-assisted percutaneous absorbable screw between 2018 and 2020. The elbow flexion-extension and forearm supination-pronation ranges of motion (ROM) were measured at the preoperative examination and last follow-up examination. Finally, the clinical and radiological results were assessed. Results: The result of operations is satisfactory. The mean follow-up was 3.0 years (range 2-3.8 years). Average range of motion significantly improved from pre- to postoperation, with forearm supination from 60°(50°-60°) to 90°(90°) and pronation improved from 75°(70°-80°) to 90°(90°). The postoperative elbow flexion-extension range of motion was significantly higher compared with range of motion before surgery (P < 0.001; r = 0.949). At the final follow-up examination, the Mayo Elbow Performance Score was excellent. Satisfactory clinical results were achieved in all patients, and no postoperative complications were observed. Conclusions: It is an effective and safe surgical option to use arthroscopic-assisted percutaneous absorbable screw fixation for treating capitellum fracture of the humerus without any complications in children. Level of evidence: Level IV; case series.

Clinical Outcomes of Revision Arthroscopic Osteocapsular Arthroplasty in Primary Elbow Osteoarthritis: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: Arthroscopic osteocapsular arthroplasty (OCA) achieves significant medium-term outcomes in patients with primary elbow osteoarthritis (OA); however, outcomes after revision arthroscopic OCA are not well known. PURPOSE: To assess clinical outcomes after revision arthroscopic OCA as compared with those after primary surgery in patients with OA. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: Patients who underwent arthroscopic OCA attributed to primary elbow OA between January 2010 and July 2020 were enrolled. Range of motion (ROM), visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, and Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) were assessed. Operation time and complications were assessed by chart review. Clinical outcomes between the primary and revision surgery groups were compared, and subgroup analysis for radiologically severe OA was performed. RESULTS: Data from 61 patients were analyzed (primary, n = 53; revision, n = 8). The mean ± SD age was 56.3 ± 8.5 and 54.3 ± 8.9 years in the primary and revision groups, respectively. The primary group had significantly better ROM arcs preoperatively (89.9°± 20.3° vs 71.3°± 22.3°; P = .021) and postoperatively (112.4°± 17.1° vs 96.9°± 16.5°; P = .019) than the revision group; however, the degree of improvement was comparable (P = .445). Postoperative VAS pain score (P = .164) and MEPS (P = .581) were comparable between the groups, as were the degrees of improvement in VAS pain score (P = .691) and MEPS (P = .604). The revision group required a significantly longer operative time than the primary group (P = .004) and had a nonsignificant higher complication rate (P = .065). Subgroup analysis showed that radiologically severe cases in the primary group had significantly better preoperative (P = .010) and postoperative (P = .030) ROM arcs than the revision group and a comparable postoperative VAS pain score (P = .155) and MEPS (P = .658). CONCLUSION: Revision arthroscopic OCA is a favorable treatment option for primary elbow OA with recurrent symptoms. Postoperative ROM arc was worse after revision surgery as compared with primary surgery; however, the degree of improvement was comparable. Postoperative VAS pain score and MEPS were comparable with primary surgery.

Five-Year Follow-up of Adolescent Gymnasts After Surgical Treatment of Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Elbow.

PURPOSE: Elbow osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is well-studied in throwing athletes; however, there are limited data regarding gymnasts with capitellar OCD lesions. We aimed to determine the overall rate of return to competition following surgical treatment of capitellar OCD lesions and to determine the relationship, if any, between arthroscopic grade of lesion and ability to return to competition. METHODS: A medical chart Current Procedural Terminology query from 2000 to 2016 yielded data on 55 competitive adolescent gymnasts who were treated surgically for elbow OCD lesions in a total of 69 elbows. Retrospective chart review was used to collect data on preoperative and postoperative symptoms and surgical treatment. Patients were contacted to complete questionnaires (Modified Andrews Elbow Scoring System, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand) on return to sport. Current elbow function and follow-up data were available for 40 of 69 elbows. RESULTS: Average age at time of surgery was 12.1 years with 18 of 55 (33%) of patients competing at a pre-elite level of gymnastics (level 9 or 10 of 10) before surgery. Nine out of 31 gymansts (29%) underwent bilateral surgery for OCD lesions. Average OCD lesion size was 10 mm. Thirty-one of 40 elbows (78%) were treated with debridement back to a stable cartilage rim with microfracture, and nine of 40 elbows (22%) were treated with debridement alone. Thirty-six of 40 patients (90% returned to competitive gymnastics with all returning patients competing at or above the same level after surgery. Among the patients who were followed up, 29 of 30 patients (97%) reported some difficulty with specific events on return to competition. CONCLUSIONS: The rate of return to sport for gymnasts at 90% is similar to that observed in other sports. This study suggests that elbow OCD lesions are not career-ending injuries for adolescent gymnasts; however, gymnasts should not expect a fully asymptomatic return to all events in a sport. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.

Arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation of capitellar and trochlear fractures: A case series.

Background: In a simple isolated capitellar/trochlear fracture without extensive posterior comminution, arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation (ARIF) can provide an alternative option to open reduction internal fixation. The purpose of this retrospective case series was to report on the technique and outcomes of arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation of capitellar/trochlear fractures. Methods: All patients that underwent ARIF at a single upper extremity referral centre in the last twenty years were reviewed. Patient demographics, preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative records were obtained through chart review and telephone followup. Results: Ten cases of ARIF were identified over a twenty year period performed by two surgeons. The average age of patients was 37 years (17-63 years), with nine females and one male. With an average followup of eight years, nine of ten patients had a mean range of motion from 0 to 142 degrees. Their average MEPI and PREE score were 93 ± 7 and 8 ± 14, respectively. Four patients had focal cartilage collapse with three that required a reoperation. There were no infections, nonunions, or arthroscopy related complications. Conclusion: ARIF offers an alternative to ORIF for capitellar/trochlear fractures producing good results while providing better visualization of the fracture reduction and minimizing soft tissue dissection.

Have Elbow Arthroscopy Hospitalizations Decreased over the Years? An Epidemiological Italian Study from 2001 to 2016.

This study describes the trends of elbow arthroscopy in Italy and other countries in order to evaluate the yearly rates of EA. Its purpose is for future epidemiological studies to be able to compare their data between countries in order to understand the reasons for the increasing and decreasing trends. Data for this study were obtained from National Hospital Discharge records (SDO) at the Italian Ministry of Health (INHS). Data regarding sex, age, region of residence, region of surgery, length of hospitalization, and procedure codes were included. In total, 2414 elbow arthroscopies were performed in Italy from 2001 to 2016 in the adult population. The highest number of procedures was found in the 40-44 and 45-49 years age groups. Males represented the majority of patients undergoing EA both in total and over the years. An increase from 2001 to 2010 and a decrease from 2010 to 2016 were reported in the present analysis. According to other studies, males of 40-44 and 45-49 years age groups represent the most treated patients. Further epidemiological studies would provide data that could be compared between countries, reaching a general consensus on the best indications for this procedure.

Elbow Arthroscopy for the Treatment of Radial Head Fractures: Surgical Technique and 10 Years of Follow Up Results Compared to Open Surgery.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to describe the ARIF (Arthroscopic Reduction Internal Fixation) technique for radial head fractures and to compare the results with ORIF (Open Reduction Internal Fixation) at mean 10 years. METHODS: A total of 32 patients affected by Mason II or III fractures of the radial head who underwent ARIF or ORIF by screws fixation were retrospectively selected and evaluated. A total of 13 patients were treated (40.6%) by ARIF and 19 patients (59.4%) by ORIF. Mean follow-up was 10 years (7-15 years). All patients underwent MEPI and BMRS scores at follow-up, and statistical analysis was performed. RESULTS: No statistical significance was reported in Surgical Time (p = 0.805) or BMRS (p = 0.181) values. Significative improvement was recorded in MEPI score (p = 0.036), and between ARIF (98.07, SD ± 4.34) and ORIF (91.57, SD ± 11.67). The ARIF group showed lower incidence of postoperative complications, especially regarding stiffness (15.4% with ORIF at 21.1%). CONCLUSIONS: The radial head ARIF surgical technique represents a reproducible and safe procedure. A long learning curve is required, but with proper experience, it represents a tool that might be beneficial for patients, as it allows a radial head fracture to be treated with minimal tissue damage, evaluation and treatment of the concomitant lesions, and with no limitation of the positioning of screws.

Risk of nerve injury during elbow arthroscopy: ultrasonographic evaluation of preoperative patients.

BACKGROUND: To clarify the real risk of nerve injury during elbow arthroscopy, the distances of the radial and median nerves to the elbow joint were investigated using ultrasonography in patients who underwent surgery. METHODS: A total of 35 patients who underwent arthroscopic surgery of the elbow were investigated. The distances of the nerves to the capsule and bony landmarks were measured using ultrasonography. The radial nerve distances were measured at the capitellum, joint space, radial head, and radial neck levels. The median nerve distances were measured at the trochlear, joint space, and coronoid process levels. The patients were divided into 2 groups: nine patients in the hydrarthrosis (HA) group and 26 patients in the non-hydrarthrosis (non-HA) group. HA was defined as the intra-articular effusion on magnetic resonance imaging scans. RESULTS: The radial nerve ran closer to the capsule at the radial neck level in the HA group than in the non-HA group (2.0 mm vs. 5.9 mm, P < .01). In the non-HA group, the radial nerve ran closer to the radial head than in the HA group (6.3 mm vs. 8.5 mm, P = .01). The median nerve ran closer to the capsule at the trochlear level in the HA group than in the non-HA group (5.2 mm vs. 8.8 mm, P < .01). Nerves at a distance of ≤2 mm from the capsule were found in 7 patients at the radial neck of the radial nerve and in 2 patients at the trochlear region of the median nerve in the HA group. In the non-HA group, they were found in 3 patients at the radial head and in 1 patient at the joint space of the radial nerve. CONCLUSIONS: The dangerous locations for nerve injury during elbow arthroscopy vary according to hydrarthrosis, and this risk should be recognized during arthroscopic surgery.

Screw placement in arthroscopically assisted osteosynthesis of radial head fractures using a reference k-wire in the radiocapitellar joint: a cadaveric study.

PURPOSE: The optimal screw placement in arthroscopically assisted fixation of radial head fractures is still an issue and no guiding methods have been evaluated in the recent literature. The study hypothesis was that using a "reference k-wire" percutaneously inserted in and parallel to the radiocapitellar joint would enable to achieve a trajectory more parallel to the radial head articular surface as compared to a free-hand k-wire placement. METHODS: Arthroscopically assisted placement of a k-wire in the radial head was performed in seven fresh-frozen human cadaver specimens by three surgeons. Three different techniques were evaluated: freehand drilling (technique A), placement using a "reference" k-wire in the radiocapitellar joint as a reference without (technique B), and with the AO parallel k-wire guide (technique C). Radiographs from all procedures were obtained and the inclination angle "α" between the k-wire and the articular surface of the radial head was measured and compared among the techniques. RESULTS: Angles of 84 radiographs were obtained and showed a mean α angle of 30.1° ± 13° for technique A, 5.7° ± 4.5° for technique B, and 5.4° ± 3.7° for technique C. The angle α was significantly higher with technique A as compared to B (p < 0.0001) and C (p < 0.0001). There was no difference between methods B and C (n.s.). No difference was observed among the surgeons for all three methods (p = 0.66). CONCLUSION: With the use of an additional "reference" k-wire placed in the radiocapitellar joint, the guiding k-wire for screw drilling can be placed almost parallel to the radial head joint line with limited variability and a good reproducibility during arthroscopically assisted radial head fracture fixation. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The here-presented method of an additional, percutaneous introduced "reference" k-wire is easily applicable and helpful to achieve parallel screw placement during arthroscopically assisted radial head fracture fixation. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV, biomechanical cadaver study.