EXOGEN ultrasound bone healing system for long bone fractures with non-union or delayed healing: a NICE medical technology guidance

LIPUS Responsive Dopamine-Modified PVDF Piezoelectric Nanofiber Membrane for Full-Thickness Skin Wound Healing

Objective

Large full-thickness skin wounds pose significant challenges, particularly in achieving scar-free healing and the regeneration of skin appendages. This study introduces a portable approach for promoting scarless healing and skin appendage regeneration by utilizing low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) activated piezoelectric electrospun membranes to modulate the local electrical environment.

Methods

Dopamine-modified polyvinylidene fluoride (DA/PVDF) nanomembranes were fabricated via electrospinning, followed by piezoelectric characterization under varying LIPUS stimulation. Cell adhesion was examined using SEM and laser confocal microscopy to assess surface interactions. Cell proliferation and migration were further analyzed using the CCK-8 assay and Transwell migration assay, respectively. Finally, the effects of DA/PVDF membranes on full-thickness skin defect healing were tested in a mouse model. The healing process was documented with photographs, and functional skin regeneration was evaluated through histological analysis.

Results

The DA/PVDF nanomembranes had an average diameter of 732 ± 232 nm and generated a voltage of 450 mV under LIPUS stimulation, a 1.28-fold increase compared to PVDF membranes alone. In vitro, LIPUS-activated membranes enhanced cell adhesion and proliferation, resulting in a 1.14-fold increase in cell growth over three days. The transwell migration assays showed 244.67 ± 7.85 migrated cells. In vivo, the DA/PVDF+LIPUS group exhibited significantly higher wound healing rates, with improved epidermal regeneration, collagen fiber deposition and remodeling, and enhanced blood vessel and skin appendage formation.

Conclusion

DA modification enhances the piezoelectric properties of PVDF membranes, boosting cell adhesion and promoting dermal and vascular regeneration. LIPUS-generated mechanical waves effectively stimulate membrane deformation, producing a localized electrical microenvironment that mimics the natural bioelectric field of skin and accelerates functional wound healing.

Low intensity pulsed ultrasound versus low-level laser therapy on peri-implant marginal bone preservation and soft tissue healing following dental implant surgery: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) and low-level laser therapy (LLLT) are proposed adjunctive therapies to enhance healing after dental implant surgery. However, direct comparisons of their effects on peri-implant marginal bone preservation and soft tissue healing remain limited. This randomized controlled trial aimed to compare the effectiveness of LIPUS and LLLT on peri-implant marginal bone preservation, soft tissue healing, pain levels, and oral health-related quality of life following dental implant placement.

METHODS

This single-blind, randomized controlled trial included 63 patients undergoing maxillary or mandibular implant placement, randomly allocated to LIPUS (n = 21), LLLT (n = 21), or control (n = 21) groups. LIPUS was applied twice weekly for 4 weeks, while LLLT was administered in 4 sessions over 2 weeks post-implant. Marginal bone loss (MBL) and OHRQoL (OHIP-14) were assessed at baseline, 6, and 12 weeks. Soft tissue healing (Landry Healing Index) and pain (VAS) were evaluated at baseline, 7-, 14-, 21-, and 30-days post-implant.

RESULTS

LIPUS significantly reduced marginal bone loss at 6 weeks and 3 months post-implant compared to LLLT and control groups (p < 0.05). LLLT demonstrated superior soft tissue healing at 7-, 14-, 21-, and 30-days post-implant (p < 0.05). Both interventions significantly decreased pain intensity and improved OHRQoL at various time points compared to the control group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

LIPUS and LLLT significantly enhance peri-implant marginal bone preservation, soft tissue healing, pain management, and OHRQoL in dental implant patients compared to standard care. LIPUS was more effective for peri-implant marginal bone preservation, while LLLT excelled in soft tissue healing.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05938868) on July 11, 2023.

Multicenter consensus statements on the use of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) in Hand Surgery

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this agreement was to establish consensus statements on the use of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) in hand surgery.

METHODS

Based on Delphi consensus methodology, a preliminary list of questions on the use of LIPUS in hand surgery was developed by an interdisciplinary team of hand and plastic surgeons as well as psychologists and experts from communications science. Based on these, questionnaires were invented and a total of three Delphi rounds have been conducted. Delphi panelists consisted of 11 German hand surgeons with a mean experience in hand surgery of 15 years (7-23 years). Questions and statements were revised during this process, resulting in a consensus at the end of round three.

RESULTS

After three Delphi rounds, the following recommendations could be derived. LIPUS can be applied for impaired fracture healing of the digits, metacarpals, carpal bones as well as a prophylactic procedure in order to avoid further revision surgery. LIPUS therapy can be useful in addition to revision surgery for delayed union and non-unions. In the case of certain risk factors (replantation, revascularization, osteoporosis, smoking), it can be applied directly postoperatively in order to prevent impaired fracture healing. It should be applied for 90-120 days.

CONCLUSION

There is a consensus among German hand surgeons, when and how LIPUS can be applied for improving fracture healing of the hand. Randomized controlled trials with direct comparison of fracture treatment with and without LIPUS are needed to support these statements with objective data.

The Mechanotransduction Signaling Pathways in the Regulation of Osteogenesis

Bones are constantly exposed to mechanical forces from both muscles and Earth's gravity to maintain bone homeostasis by stimulating bone formation. Mechanotransduction transforms external mechanical signals such as force, fluid flow shear, and gravity into intracellular responses to achieve force adaptation. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms on the conversion from mechanical signals into bone formation has not been completely defined yet. In the present review, we provide a comprehensive and systematic description of the mechanotransduction signaling pathways induced by mechanical stimuli during osteogenesis and address the different layers of interconnections between different signaling pathways. Further exploration of mechanotransduction would benefit patients with osteoporosis, including the aging population and postmenopausal women.

Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound Treatment for Non-unions of Long Bone Fractures in a Scottish District General Hospital

OBJECTIVE

Despite advances in treatment, the management of fracture non-union remains a challenging and complex problem in orthopaedics. Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) treatment has been shown to be an effective, non-invasive, affordable treatment option. This treatment was evaluated in a Scottish district hospital over a nine-year period, which included the COVID-19 pandemic.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This submission describes a case series at Dr Gray's Hospital in Scotland, 18 patients in whom fracture non-union was treated using LIPUS.

RESULTS

An overall healing rate of 94% was achieved. Exogen™ (Bioventus LLC, NC, USA) proved to be most successful in oligotrophic non-union. No observed patient demographic appeared predictive of outcome. LIPUS treatment failed in one case. No significant adverse effects of LIPUS were detected.

CONCLUSION

LIPUS represents a useful, cost-effective potential alternative to revision surgery. LIPUS may therefore be the preferred treatment when surgical intervention and face-to-face interactions are to be minimised, as during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A scoping review of operative and non-invasive management in the treatment of non-unions

INTRODUCTION

Non-union occurs when a fracture fails to adequately heal, and requires additional intervention to achieve union. The purpose of this scoping review is to provide a high-level overview of the existing non-union management literature. This review aims to highlight the current literature on non-union management, as well as identify key areas that require future research to provide a better understanding of potential non-union management strategies.

METHODS

This study utilized the scoping review framework from Arksey and O'Malley All relevant literature on non-union management was systematically searched for within the OVID Medline, OVID Embase, and Web of Science databases. As a scoping review, this study aimed to identify the high-level trends in non-union literature. This was assessed through a visual and numerical summary of the general themes in non-union literature, as well as the timeline in which these trends have occurred.

RESULTS

The literature search identified 8081 articles, of which 2210 articles were included. There is a large body of evidence for various surgical treatment options for non-union. The literature suggests healing rates between 80 and 100 percent for commonly utilized surgical procedures, such as plating with bone graft for long bones. Despite these beneficial healing rates, the requirement of a surgery creates a large socioeconomic burden. The possibility for bone growth stimulator (BGS) options to achieve non-union healing rates in a similar realm as surgical options suggests that the use of a BGS may be a beneficial option prior to surgical intervention, as this would potentially reduce the number of patients who would otherwise require surgery.

CONCLUSION

A large body of evidence exists on non-union management, which is largely comprised of case series and reports. The most commonly assessed non-unions include the tibia, wrist, and femur. Bone grafting, plating, and nailing are the most investigated treatment options. BGS are a non-operative treatment options for non-union that provide similar healing rates to surgical options in certain indications within initial observational data. BGS are a potential option for non-operative management of non-unions to reduce socioeconomic burdens of surgical intervention, with a need for further high-quality investigation in this therapeutic area.

Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound Therapy in Patients With Post-traumatic Delayed Union and Non-union

Background Fracture non-union can lead to significant patient morbidity with poor quality of life. Due to the cost, complexity, and potential risks of revision surgery, there has been an increased popularity in the use of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound therapy (LIPUS), which accelerates and promotes bone consolidation. There is an ongoing debate regarding the use and efficacy of LIPUS in delayed union and non-union. This study aims to assess the success rate of LIPUS therapy in patients treated for delayed and non-union fractures, explicitly focusing on the impact of patient co-morbidities and fracture characteristics. Method A retrospective observational study was performed of all consecutive patients who received LIPUS therapy in a single institution from January 2016 to September 2022. Of 127 identified patients, only 99 patients met our inclusion criteria. Data collection entailed reviewing the clinical notes to assess patients' sex, age, co-morbidities, initial treatment method, time to initiate LIPUS, whether a CT was performed to diagnose non-union, time to union and whether revision surgery was needed. Two independent senior orthopedic doctors reviewed the patients' radiographs, measured the interfragmentary bone gap of all fractures, and assessed whether the radiographic union was achieved. Results The mean age of the included patients was 52.5 (SD±16.9) years with a male-to-female ratio of 1:1.6. At initial presentation, 65 (out of 99) patients were treated surgically, whereas the rest were managed conservatively. 80.8% of patients developed atrophic non-union. All 99 included patients were fitted with LIPUS once delayed/ non-union was diagnosed; the average time to fitting was 5.1 (SD±3.9) months. Of these, 61.6% of patients were successfully treated with LIPUS with a clinical and radiological union at an average of 4.3 (SD±1.9) months. The rest of the patients needed further surgical intervention due to ongoing non-union. The interfragmentary bone gap was the only statistically significant factor influencing the success of LIPUS therapy (p=0.003). In contrast, no statistically significant association was identified between the outcome of LIPUS therapy and the patient's age, sex, diabetes, and smoking status. Conclusion This study demonstrated a 61.6% progression to union rate of patients treated with LIPUS therapy for delayed union and non-union. The interfragmentary bone gap was identified as the only statistically significant factor influencing the success of LIPUS therapy. In the current climate post-lockdown and with ongoing Covid 19 outbreaks impacting elective waiting lists negatively, there is increased value and demand for non-surgical treatment options. LIPUS therapy represents an important complementary non-surgical and low-risk treatment pathway for delayed union and non-union.

The perceptions of clinicians using low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) for orthopaedic pathology: A national qualitative study

INTRODUCTION

Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) is a non-invasive treatment modality for delayed union or non-union of acute fractures. We aimed to assess the current use of LIPUS at a national level in the United Kingdom, why and how clinicians use it, what treatment protocols are followed, and what the current perceptions are on this technology.

METHODOLOGY

Using a detailed online survey compromised of 20 questions delivered to known LIPUS users, we were able to collect qualitative data on indication of use, type of machine used, personal views on the technology, frequency of usage, and treatment protocols. Each question was peer-reviewed to exclude bias.

RESULTS

A total of 70 respondents completed the survey. LIPUS was used by most clinicians for cases of non-union (N = 55, 78.5%) and delayed union (N = 51, 72.8%). The majority of respondents personally used a LIPUS device between 1 and 5 times in 12 months (N = 38, 54.3%). Most considered LIPUS a failure after three to six months of treatment without clinical improvement (N = 39, 55.7%). A total of 32 respondents (45.7%) mentioned the need for funding approval before accessing LIPUS technology. Poor revision surgery candidates (N = 48, 68.6%) and atrophic non-union (N = 46, 65.7%) were the most frequently cited reasons for using LIPUS technology as treatment. Most participants (N = 48, 68.6%) considered LIPUS to be cost-effective. Despite most clinicians being comfortable with the use of LIPUS, some respondents did not understand the basic science underpinning the technology nor could explain the need for LIPUS to patients comfortably.

CONCLUSION

LIPUS technology may have a significant role to play in the treatment of orthopaedic fracture related pathology. Regular users perceived the technology to be cost-effective and efficacious. Further research should standardize treatment protocols and aim to establish a national LIPUS registry.

A Retrospective Study: Is Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound (LIPUS) an Effective Alternate Treatment Option for Non-union?

Background

There is ongoing controversy regarding the use of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) therapy in patients with delayed union or non-union. Exogen (Bioventus, Durham, NC) is a well-known brand of LIPUS, and according to their data, 86% of non-union fractures will heal without the need for surgery. A few independent retrospective studies reported much lower healing rates.

Method

A retrospective observational study was performed assessing all the patients who underwent Exogen therapy in a single centre. All patients who were initiated on Exogen after three months with radiographic signs of the delayed union were included in the study. Routine follow-up appointments were organised until clinical and radiological healing could be confirmed. Daily 20-minute Exogen sessions were continued until the fracture was healed or up to a maximum of four months as recommended by the manufacturer.

Results

A total of 37 patients received Exogen therapy from 2012 to 2021, of which only 28 patients met our inclusion criteria and were subsequently analysed. The mean age of the patients was 52.0 (SD ± 20.2) with a male to female ratio of 1.7:1. The average time to healing was 115 (±51.2) days with a success rate of 82.14%. The average interfragmentary gap was 7.5 mm (±5.8) for the fractures that healed whereas the failed treatment was 16.1 mm (±13.8). There was no obvious association between outcomes after Exogen therapy and the patient’s age, sex, time to initiate Exogen, diabetes, and smoking status.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated a high success rate of LIPUS therapy for patients with delayed union and non-union. LIPUS represents a safe, non-invasive alternative to revision surgery. An independent risk factor for a potentially poor outcome is an increased interfragmentary gap.

Pitfalls preventing bone union with EXOGEN Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy of EXOGEN in achieving union and common pitfalls in its use within the Manchester Foundation Trust (MFT) and Salford Royal Foundation Trust (SRFT).

METHOD

Patients receiving EXOGEN therapy between 01/01/2017 and 31/12/2019 at hospitals within MFT and SRFT were identified using EXOGEN logbooks and hospital IT systems. An equal number of patients were included from both sites. Data were retrospectively collected from clinical documents detailing clinical presentation comorbidities, and radiographic images, determining the radiological union post EXOGEN therapy. In addition, local practices were observed and compared to EXOGEN's standardized guidance for clinicians.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight patients were included in the primary review, with 9 subsequently excluded based on insufficient clinical data. 47% of patients achieved radiological union following completion of EXOGEN therapy. Outcomes of the 23 patients with persistent non-union were as follows - 18 were referred for revision surgery, 5 were prescribed further EXOGEN therapy, 2 refused or were unfit for further intervention, and 1 did not have a plan documented. No significant baseline differences were present in both outcome groups. However, at MFT and SRFT, rates of union with EXOGEN are below that previously published in the literature.

CONCLUSION

EXOGEN has proven successful in facilitating union in established cases of non-union without the risk and cost associated with revision surgery. Centre outcome differences may be explained by failure to educate clinicians and patients on the correct use of the EXOGEN device, failure to standardize follow-up or monitor compliance, and must be addressed to improve current services.

Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound Stimulation for Bone Fractures Healing: A Review

Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) is a developing technology, which has been proven to improve fracture healing process with minimal thermal effects. This noninvasive treatment accelerates bone formation through various molecular, biological, and biomechanical interactions with tissues and cells. Although LIPUS treatment has shown beneficial effects on different bone fracture locations, only very few studies have examined its effects on deeper bones. This study provides an overview on therapeutic ultrasound for fractured bones, possible mechanisms of action, clinical evidences, current limitations, and its future prospects.

Sustained acoustic medicine for the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Musculoskeletal injuries account for 10 million work-limited days per year and often lead to both acute and/or chronic pain, and increased chances of re-injury or permanent disability. Conservative treatment options include various modalities, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and physical rehabilitation programs. Sustained Acoustic Medicine is an emerging prescription home-use mechanotransductive device to stimulate cellular proliferation, increase microstreaming and cavitation in situ, and to increase tissue profusion and permeability. This research aims to summarize the clinical evidence on Sustained Acoustic Medicine and measurable outcomes in the literature.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed, EBSCOhost, Academic Search Complete, Google Scholar and ClinicalTrials.gov to identify studies evaluating the effects of Sustained Acoustic Medicine on the musculoskeletal system of humans. Articles identified were selected based on inclusion criteria and scored on the Downs and Black checklist. Study design, clinical outcomes and primary findings were extracted from included studies for synthesis and meta-analysis statistics.

RESULTS

A total of three hundred and seventy-two participants (372) were included in the thirteen clinical research studies reviewed including five (5) level I, four (4) level II and four (4) level IV studies. Sixty-seven (67) participants with neck and back myofascial pain and injury, one hundred and fifty-six (156) participants with moderate to severe knee pain and radiographically confirmed knee osteoarthritis (Kellgren-Lawrence grade II/III), and one hundred forty-nine (149) participants with generalized soft-tissue injury of the elbow, shoulder, back and ankle with limited function. Primary outcomes included daily change in pain intensity, change in Western Ontario McMaster Osteoarthritis Questionnaire, change in Global Rate of Change, and functional outcome measures including dynamometry, grip strength, range-of-motion, and diathermic heating (temperature measurement).

CONCLUSION

Sustained Acoustic Medicine treatment provides tissue heating and tissue recovery, improved patient function and reduction of pain. When patients failed to respond to physical therapy, Sustained Acoustic Medicine proved to be a useful adjunct to facilitate healing and return to work. As a non-invasive and non-narcotic treatment option with an excellent safety profile, Sustained Acoustic Medicine may be considered a good therapeutic option for practitioners.

Six month nonunion tibial diaphysis osteotomy treated with conventional pulsed therapeutic ultrasound: a case report

Background: a large tibial defect significantly increases the chances of nonunion fractures, changes in the quality of life, and pain. Tibial osteotomy with a large gap size is an unfavorable condition to complete healing. Purpose: to describe the treatment of a complex case of a six-month nonunion tibial diaphysis osteotomy using conventional pulsed ultrasound therapy (cput). Case description: a 46-year-old man, 1.65 m tall, weighing 63 kg, and homeless was diagnosed with a nonunion tibial diaphysis fracture and underwent osteotomy of the tibial diaphysis with an opening gap and external fixation with circular rings and thin wires (ilizarov). An interdisciplinaty approach including social work, nutrition, and physiotherapy including exercise reconditioning was initiated over a period of two years. After six months of nonunion following a tibial osteotomy, cput was used with a frequency of 1 mhz, duty cycle of 20%, spatially averaged temporally averaged (sata) intensity of 0.1 w/cm², frequency of 100 hz, 20 min of duration, for 2-3 times for 20 weeks. Outcomes: there was an improvement in the amount of bone in the fracture gap with a total restoration of function, resolution of pain, and gait without crutches after 35 sessions of cput. Conclusion: an interdisciplinary approach including mechanical stimulus from cput assisted in the healing process in a patient with chronic tibial osteotomy nonunion.

Low-Intensity Continuous Ultrasound Therapies—A Systematic Review of Current State-of-the-Art and Future Perspectives

Therapeutic ultrasound has been studied for over seven decades for different medical applications. The versatility of ultrasound applications are highly dependent on the frequency, intensity, duration, duty cycle, power, wavelength, and form. In this review article, we will focus on low-intensity continuous ultrasound (LICUS). LICUS has been well-studied for numerous clinical disorders, including tissue regeneration, pain management, neuromodulation, thrombosis, and cancer treatment. PubMed and Google Scholar databases were used to conduct a comprehensive review of all research studying the application of LICUS in pre-clinical and clinical studies. The review includes articles that specify intensity and duty cycle (continuous). Any studies that did not identify these parameters or used high-intensity and pulsed ultrasound were not included in the review. The literature review shows the vast implication of LICUS in many medical fields at the pre-clinical and clinical levels. Its applications depend on variables such as frequency, intensity, duration, and type of medical disorder. Overall, these studies show that LICUS has significant promise, but conflicting data remain regarding the parameters used, and further studies are required to fully realize the potential benefits of LICUS.

Low intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) use for the management of instrumented, infected, and fragility non-unions: a systematic review and meta-analysis of healing proportions

Background

Non-union occurs in approximately 5 to 10% of fracture patients, with certain bones at greater risk of failing to heal. Non-unions have a significant impact on socioeconomic costs and the patients short and long-term quality of life. Low intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) is a non-invasive therapy for non-union treatment that can improve the long-term outcome. The purpose of this study is to summarize the available literature assessing LIPUS potential to improve the union rate in instrumented, infected, and fragility non-unions.

Methods

A literature search was conducted in the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases for all relevant literature on the healing rates of LIPUS utilized in instrumented, infected, and fragility non-unions. Study characteristics were summarized for each of the included studies. The percentage of healed patients (healing rate), for instrumented, infected, and fragility fracture non-union patients were pooled from each included study.

Results

The literature search identified a total of 326 articles, while searching reference lists and grey literature identified an additional 3 articles. There was a total of 29 articles included in this review, with 20 articles included within the quantitative synthesis of healing rates. The most common design of included studies was case series (17 articles), followed by case reports (9 articles). Studies were primarily retrospective (18 studies), with an additional 10 prospective studies. Non-union healing rates were 82% (95% CI: 76 to 87%) in instrumented, 82% (95% CI: 70 to 95%) in infected, and 91% (95% CI: 87 to 95%) in fragility fracture patients with non-unions.

Conclusion

This study has provided a thorough overview of the current literature on LIPUS treatment for instrumented, infected, and fragility fracture non-unions. The healing rates for non-unions in these subgroups were comparable to healing rates observed with LIPUS use in general non-union literature. LIPUS treatment should be considered as a conservative non-surgical treatment option to potentially reduce the socioeconomic impact and improve the quality of life of these unfortunate patients.

Level of evidence

4 (systematic review of primarily case series data)

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12891-021-04322-5.

An early cost analysis of magnetic bone growth stimulation in England

Background: Fracture nonunions impact on morbidity and health care costs and are associated with substantial pain, reduced mobility, prolonged morbidity, and a lower quality of life. CMF OrthoLogic 1000 (OL1000) is a bone growth stimulator used to promote fracture healing potentially reducing the need for surgical intervention. A cost analysis comparing CMF OL1000 versus surgical care for patients with nonunion tibial fractures was conducted.Methods: A Markov model was developed to compare the difference in costs between CMF OL1000 versus surgical care within the English National Health Service over a 2-year time horizon. The effectiveness of CMF OL1000 was based on recently published registry data. Cost data were derived from published sources and national cost databases. Sensitivity and scenario analyses were conducted.Results: The use of CMF OL1000 is estimated to lead to cost-savings of £1,104 per patient, a reduction in average healing time of 2.1 months and a relative risk of infection of 0.19 compared to immediate surgical intervention (standard of care). The results of the model are robust to most changes in input parameters and scenarios considered.Conclusions: This early analysis shows cost-savings for CMF OL1000 compared with surgical intervention for individuals with nonunion tibial fractures.

Sustained Acoustic Medicine Combined with A Diclofenac Ultrasound Coupling Patch for the Rapid Symptomatic Relief of Knee Osteoarthritis: Multi-Site Clinical Efficacy Study

BACKGROUND

Sustained Acoustic Medicine (SAM) is an emerging, non-invasive, non-narcotic, home-use ultrasound therapy for the daily treatment of joint pain. The aim of this multi-site clinical study was to examine the efficacy of long-duration continuous ultrasound combined with a 1% diclofenac ultrasound gel patch in treating pain and improving function in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

METHODS

The Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) were followed. Thirty-two (32) patients (18-males, 14-females) 54 years of average age with moderate to severe knee pain and radiographically confirmed knee osteoarthritis (Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) grade II/III) were enrolled for treatment with the SAM device and diclofenac patch applied daily to the treated knee. SAM ultrasound (3 MHz, 0.132 W/cm2, 1.3 W) and 6 grams of 1% diclofenac were applied with a wearable device for 4 hours daily for 1 week, delivering 18,720 Joules of ultrasound energy per treatment. The primary outcome was the daily change in pain intensity using a numeric rating scale (NRS 0-10), which was assessed prior to intervention (baseline, day 1), before and after each daily treatment, and after 1 week of daily treatment (day 7). Rapid responders were classified as those patients exhibiting greater than a 1-point reduction in pain following the first treatment. Change in Western Ontario McMaster Osteoarthritis Questionnaire (WOMAC) score from baseline to day 7 was the secondary functional outcome measure. Additionally, a series of daily usability and user experience questions related to devising ease of use, functionality, safety, and effectiveness, were collected. Data were analyzed using t-tests and repeated measure ANOVAs.

RESULTS

The study had a 94% retention rate, and there were no adverse events or study-related complaints across 224 unique treatment sessions. Rapid responders included 75% of the study population. Patients exhibited a significant mean NRS pain reduction over the 7-day study of 2.06-points (50%) for all subjects (n=32, p<0.001) and 2.96-points (70%) for rapid responders (n=24, p<0.001). The WOMAC functional score significantly improved by 351 points for all subjects (n=32, p<0.001), and 510 points for rapid responders (n=24, p<0.001). Over 95% of patients found the device safe, effective and easy to use, and would continue treatment for their knee OA symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Sustained Acoustic Medicine combined with 1% topical diclofenac rapidly reduced pain and improved function in patients with moderate to severe osteoarthritis-related knee pain. The clinical findings suggest that this treatment approach may be used as a conservative, non-invasive treatment option for patients with knee osteoarthritis. Additional research is warranted on non-weight bearing joints of the musculoskeletal system as well as different topical drugs that could benefit from improved localized delivery.Clinical Trial Registry Number: (NCT04391842).

Can low intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) be used as an alternative to revision surgery for patients with non-unions following fracture fixation?

BACKGROUND

Non-union is a significant complication of fracture fixation surgery, and can negatively impact a patient's quality of life. Low intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) has been used to treat delayed or non-unions previously in the literature. The aim of this study was to determine the success rate of LIPUS treatment in patients with chronic fracture non-unions, and to establish the effect of systemic or local factors on its success.

METHODS

This was a retrospective, observational study which included all patients undergoing LIPUS treatment in a single institution. Patients deemed suitable for LIPUS underwent treatment for a period of 6 months from initiation. They were followed up with sequential radiographs to assess union at intervals of 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year. LIPUS treatment was considered to be successful when patients achieved clinical and radiological union, without the need for revision surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 46 patients were included in the study; 8 were lost to follow - up, leaving 38 patients for the final analysis. The mean age of patients was 47.03 ± 19.7 with a male to female ratio of 1.2:1. Union was achieved in 57.89%; the rest underwent revision surgery. There was no significant association between outcomes after LIPUS treatment and patients' age, gender, smoking status or type of non-union. Patients with a small inter-fragment bone gap were more likely to have a successful outcome after LIPUS (p = 0.041). Time to treatment did not have a statistically significant impact on outcomes after LIPUS. Interestingly, all 6 patients with diabetes in the study managed to achieve union after LIPUS.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that LIPUS is not successful in a large proportion of patients with established fracture non-unions. However, it does represent a low risk treatment modality as an alternative to revision surgery, especially for patients with diabetes who have a small inter - fragment bone gap. More research in the form of large randomised controlled trials needs to be carried out to further assess the role of LIPUS in the treatment of non-unions.

Scapular Spine Stress Fracture Following Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty: Successful Management with Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound

Scapular spine stress fractures are a rare but well-recognised complication following reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA). They present a challenge with no consensus on management. Both operative fixation and conservative measures are associated with high rates of mal- or non-union and decreased functional outcomes.  We present the case of a 60-year-old female, who presented with a scapular spine fracture one year following RTSA. Treatment consisted of initial immobilisation, physiotherapy and the application of a portable low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) system (EXOGENÒ Ultrasound Bone Healing System, Bioventus, Durham NC, Netherlands). Following a three-month treatment course, there was a significant improvement in patient-reported pain and functional scores (Oxford Shoulder Score from 5/48 to 38/48). Sequential radiographic imaging confirmed fracture union. Clinicians may consider the use of LIPUS therapy as a potential adjunctive treatment modality to promote the union of scapular spine stress fractures following RTSA.

Efficacy of Sustained Acoustic Medicine as an Add-on to Traditional Therapy in Treating Sport-related Injuries : Case Reports

CONTEXT

Musculoskeletal injuries are prevalent in sports, and the application of Sustain Acoustic Medicine (SAM) as a home-use add-on therapy to reduce pain and to increase the probability of athletes returning to sports was evaluated in a case series.

OBJECTIVES

To examine the improvements in pain and return to function of athletes using SAM in conjunction with traditional therapies after sustaining sports-related musculoskeletal injuries.

INTRODUCTION

Traditional treatments such as rest, physical therapy, manual therapy, a combination of rest, ice compression, and elevation (RICE) are standard of care for musculoskeletal injuries and do not provide adequate accelerated healing to return athletes to activity. SAM is an FDA-approved bio-regenerative technology, which can provide mechanotransductive and thermal stimuli to accelerate tissue healing and reduction in pain daily. Interventions: A case series of 18 athletes who showed little or no improvement with traditional therapies where prescribed SAM treatment as an add-on daily home-use intervention. The study included athletes with sports musculoskeletal injuries, including the arm/shoulder, upper leg/glutes/hips, knees, back, and foot/ankle. Clinical outcomes were recorded along with the ability of athletes' ability to go back to sports, and satisfaction and usability measures of the home treatment. Results: All athletes were satisfied with the usability and comfort of the therapy and 93%reported the therapy was sufficiently discrete. Clinical outcomes indicate all athletes showed an average pain decrease of 3.33±0.82 (p≤0.05) numerical rating scales (NRS), improvement in function, and quality of life. 87% of the athletes documented an improvement in function, and 55% were able to return to sports after conservative intervention failed. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that SAM improves athletes' clinical outcomes. Over 50% of athletes were able to return to sports and resume normal daily function after conservative intervention had failed with addition of daily SAM treatment.

Low Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound Therapy (LIPUS): A review of evidence and potential applications in diabetics

Low Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound Therapy (LIPUS) is a non-invasive treatment and aims to reduce fracture healing time and avoid non-union by delivering micro-mechanical stress to the bone to stimulate bone healing. In 2018, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommended that the evidence for LIPUS to promote healing of delayed-union and non-union fractures raised no major safety concerns, but the current evidence on efficacy is inadequate in quality. Little is known about the potential benefits of LIPUS for fracture healing in diabetic patients. In this article, we review the current evidence of LIPUS therapy both in animal and human studies and its possible application on fractures in diabetics.

Low-Intensity Continuous Ultrasound for the Symptomatic Treatment of Upper Shoulder and Neck Pain: A Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

Purpose

Low-intensity continuous ultrasound (LICUS) is an emerging high-dosimetry ultrasound-based therapy for accelerated tissue healing and the treatment of myofascial pain. In this study, LICUS treatment is clinically evaluated for chronic upper neck and shoulder pain in a randomized, multi-site, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.

Patients and Methods

CONSORT guidelines were followed in conducting and reporting the clinical trial. Thirty-three participants with upper trapezius myofascial pain were randomized for treatment with active (n=25) or placebo (n=8) devices. Investigators and subjects were blinded to treatment groups. Participants self-reported pain daily, rating from 0–10 on the numeric rating scale. If pain rating was more significant than or equal to 3, the LICUS (3MHz, 0.132W/cm², 1.3W, 4 hours) was self-applied for total energy dosimetry of 18,720 Joules per treatment. During the 4-week study, daily pain rating was recorded. If LICUS treatment was delivered, pain before, during, and after treatment were recorded as well as the global rate of change (GROC). Independent t-tests were used to assess change from baseline and differences between treatment groups. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02135094.

Results

There was a 100% completion rate for participants enrolled in the study and no significant differences between the groups regarding demographic variables or baseline outcome measures. Participants treated with active therapy observed a significant mean pain reduction from baseline of 2.61 points for active (p<0.001), compared to 1.58 points decrease from baseline for placebo (p=0.087), resulting in a 1.03 points significant decrease in the active group over placebo (p=0.003). The total GROC was significantly higher in the active group at 2.84 points compared to the placebo group at 0.46 points (p<0.001).

Conclusion

Low-intensity continuous ultrasound treatment significantly reduced pain in patients with upper trapezius myofascial pain of the neck and shoulder. LICUS treatment showed a clinically meaningful improvement in the GROC scores for patients. The results from this clinical trial indicate that the LICUS treatment of 18,720 Joules can effectively be used to treat clinical pain related to upper trapezius myofascial pain. Further research could investigate varying dosimetry to improve efficacy and/or reduce the dose.

Mechanotransduction in osteogenesis

Bone is one of the most highly adaptive tissues in the body, possessing the capability to alter its morphology and function in response to stimuli in its surrounding environment. The ability of bone to sense and convert external mechanical stimuli into a biochemical response, which ultimately alters the phenotype and function of the cell, is described as mechanotransduction. This review aims to describe the fundamental physiology and biomechanisms that occur to induce osteogenic adaptation of a cell following application of a physical stimulus. Considerable developments have been made in recent years in our understanding of how cells orchestrate this complex interplay of processes, and have become the focus of research in osteogenesis. We will discuss current areas of preclinical and clinical research exploring the harnessing of mechanotransductive properties of cells and applying them therapeutically, both in the context of fracture healing and de novo bone formation in situations such as nonunion.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2019;9(1):1–14.

Application of the Radiographic Union Scale for Tibial fractures (RUST): Assessment of healing rate and time of tibial fractures managed with intramedullary nailing

INTRODUCTION

Tibial fractures are devastating injuries and a cause of significant morbidity. There is limited information describing the length of time it takes for these injuries to heal. The aim of this study was to define the normal distribution of healing times of a consecutive series of tibial fractures treated with intramedullary (IM) nailing by applying the Radiographic Union Scale for Tibial fractures (RUST).

METHODS

880 radiographs from 217 patients were assessed with RUST. Patients requiring more than one standard deviation from the mean were defined to have a delayed union.

RESULTS

16 patients (7%) developed non-unions and 30 patients (14%) had delayed union. Of the 201 patients who achieved union, the mean time to healing was 18.7 (SD 6.9) weeks, with a wide range from 7 to 52 weeks. In the union group, the rate of healing was greatest in the 8 to 12-week period. In contrast, in the delayed union group there was a lower peak rate of change, which was reached at a later time point.

DISCUSSION

Our data indicates that 7% of patients with tibial fractures treated with IM nailing develop non-unions and over 10% of those progressing to union will take longer than 26 weeks. The data on healing rates is important to surgeons and orthopaedic multidisciplinary staff in guiding management. It can also be of help for patients planning their finances and for giving estimates for personal injury claims.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, Retrospective cohort study.

Novel Aptamer-Functionalized Nanoparticles Enhances Bone Defect Repair By Improving Stem Cell Recruitment

BACKGROUND

The restoration and repair method in the clinic of delayed fracture healing and non-union after comminuted fractures are urgently needed to improve the prognosis of patients. The recruitment of endogenous stem cells has been considered a promising approach in bone defect repair.

PROPOSE

The aim of this study was to generate a de novel MSCs aptamer and developed the first, feasible, economical, bio-compatible, and functional MSCs aptamer-directed nanoparticles without complex manufacture to recruit mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for bone defect regeneration.

METHODS

Whole-cell SELEX was used to generate a de novel MSCs aptamer. Flow cytometry was applied to assess the binding specificities, affinities and sorting abilities of the aptamers. Nano-Aptamer Ball (NAB) was constructed by NHS/EDC reaction. The diameter and zeta of NAB were assessed by dynamic light scattering. CCK8 assay was utilized to evaluate whether NAB could cause non-specific cytotoxicity and induce cell proliferation. To evaluate the bone repair capacity of NAB, histomorphological staining, alizarin red and micro X-ray were used to observe the repair degree of defect in vivo. ELISA was used to detect osteopontin (OPN), osteocalcin (BGP) by, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in peripheral blood.

RESULTS

MSCs aptamer termed as HM69 could bind with MSCs with high specificity and Kd of 9.67 nM, while has minimal cross-reactivities to other negative cells. HM69 could capture MSCs with a purity of >89%. In vitro, NAB could bind and capture MSCs effectively, whereas did not cause obvious cytotoxicity. In vivo, serum OPN, BGP, and ALP levels in the NAB group of rats were increased at both 2 and 4 weeks, indicating the repair and osteogenesis generation. The healing of bone defects in the NAB group was significantly better than control groups, the defects became blurred, and local trabecular bone growth could be observed in X-ray. The organized hematoma and cell growth in the bone marrow of the NAB group were more vigorous in bone sections staining.

CONCLUSION

These suggested that HM69 and HM69-functionalized nanoparticles NAB exhibited the ability to recruit MSCs both in vitro and in vivo and achieved a better outcome of bone defect repair in a rat model. The findings demonstrate a promising strategy of using aptamer-functionalized bio-nanoparticles for the restoration of bone defects via aptamer-introduced homing of MSCs.

Clinically Available Low Intensity Ultrasound Devices do not Promote Axonal Regeneration After Peripheral Nerve Surgery-A Preclinical Investigation of an FDA-Approved Device

The slow axonal regeneration and consecutive delayed muscle reinnervation cause persistent functional deficits following peripheral nerve injury, even following sufficient surgical nerve reconstruction. Preclinically, adjunct ultrasound therapy has shown to significantly accelerate nerve regeneration and thereby improve muscle function compared to nerve reconstruction alone. However, although FDA-approved and clinically well-tested ultrasound devices for other conditions such as delayed-healing fractures are available, they have not been investigated for peripheral nerve injury yet. Aiming to provide a fast clinical translation, we evaluated EXOGEN (Bioventus LLC, Durham, USA), a clinical device for low-intensity ultrasound therapy in various treatment intervals following peripheral nerve surgery. Sixty rats, randomized to five groups of twelve animals each, underwent median nerve transection and primary epineural nerve reconstruction. Post-surgically the ultrasound therapy (duration: 2 min, frequency: 1.5 MHz, pulsed SATA-intensity: 30 mW/cm², repetition-rate: 1.0 kHz, duty-cycle: 20%) was applied either weekly, 3 times a week or daily. A daily sham-therapy and a control-group served as references. Functional muscle testing, electrodiagnostics and histological analyses were used to evaluate nerve regeneration. The post-surgically absent grip strength recovered in all groups and increased from week four on without any significant differences among groups. The weekly treated animals showed significantly reduced target muscle atrophy compared to sham-treated animals (p = 0.042), however, with no significant differences to three-times-a-week-, daily treated and control animals. The number of myelinated axons distal to the lesion site increased significantly in all groups (p < 0.001) without significant difference among groups (p > 0.05). A full recovery of distal latency was achieved in all groups and muscle function and CMAP recurred with insignificant differences among groups. In conclusion, the clinically available FDA-approved ultrasound device did not promote the axonal regeneration following nerve injury in comparison to control and sham groups. This is in contrast to a conclusive preclinical evidence base and likely due to the insufficient ultrasound-intensity of 30 mW/cm². We recommend the clinical investigation of 200–300 mW/cm².

3D bioactive composite scaffolds for bone tissue engineering

Bone is the second most commonly transplanted tissue worldwide, with over four million operations using bone grafts or bone substitute materials annually to treat bone defects. However, significant limitations affect current treatment options and clinical demand for bone grafts continues to rise due to conditions such as trauma, cancer, infection and arthritis. Developing bioactive three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds to support bone regeneration has therefore become a key area of focus within bone tissue engineering (BTE). A variety of materials and manufacturing methods including 3D printing have been used to create novel alternatives to traditional bone grafts. However, individual groups of materials including polymers, ceramics and hydrogels have been unable to fully replicate the properties of bone when used alone. Favourable material properties can be combined and bioactivity improved when groups of materials are used together in composite 3D scaffolds. This review will therefore consider the ideal properties of bioactive composite 3D scaffolds and examine recent use of polymers, hydrogels, metals, ceramics and bio-glasses in BTE. Scaffold fabrication methodology, mechanical performance, biocompatibility, bioactivity, and potential clinical translations will be discussed.

Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound Therapy for a Symptomatic Persistent Olecranon Physis in an Adolescent Baseball Pitcher

A 15-year-old competitive right-handed high school baseball pitcher experienced an acute onset of right elbow pain when throwing. He initially treated it conservatively with rest alone for 3 months, but on return to throwing, he was still experiencing pain. Radiographs revealed that he had a persistent olecranon physis. He proceeded with a trial of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound therapy and attained radiographic evidence of bony union at 7 months postinjury, thus avoiding surgical intervention. He returned to pitching competitively 9 months after injury without elbow pain. This is the first reported case of using ultrasound bone stimulation for treatment of a symptomatic persistent olecranon physis in a baseball pitcher.

Clinical and Research Approaches to Treat Non-union Fracture

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Impaired healing outcomes or even non-unions after bone injury are still a highly relevant problem in the daily clinical life. Especially within an aging population, the occurrence of bone fractures increases and thus novel treatment approaches to overcome compromised bone regeneration are needed.

RECENT FINDINGS

The gold standard to treat delayed or non-healing bone injuries is still the use of autologous bone grafts to foster regeneration. Besides its successful treatment outcome, it also has disadvantages: a second surgery is needed in order to harvest the bone material and the material is highly limited. Looking into the recent literature, a multitude of different research approaches were already conducted to identify new possible strategies to treat impaired bone regeneration: application of mesenchymal stromal cells, platelet lysates, growth factors, interference in the immune system, or bone formation stimulation by ultrasound. This review gives an overview of the treatment approaches actually performed in the clinic as well as at the bench in the context of compromised bone healing. It clearly highlights the complexity of the nature of non-healing bone fractures as well as patient-dependent factors influencing the healing process.

Ultrasound and shock-wave stimulation to promote axonal regeneration following nerve surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical studies

Limited regeneration after nerve injury often leads to delayed or incomplete reinnervation and consequently insufficient muscle function. Following nerve surgery, application of low-intensity ultrasound or extracorporeal shock waves may promote nerve regeneration and improve functional outcomes. Because currently clinical data is unavailable, we performed a meta-analysis following the PRISMA-guidelines to investigate the therapeutic effect of ultrasound and shock wave therapies on motor nerve regeneration. Ten ultrasound-studies (N = 445 rats) and three shock-wave studies (N = 110 rats) were identified from multiple databases. We calculated the difference in means or standardized mean difference with 95% confidence intervals for motor function, nerve conduction velocity and histomorphological parameters of treated versus sham or non-treated animals. Ultrasound treatment showed significantly faster nerve conduction, increased axonal regeneration with thicker myelin and improved motor function on sciatic functional index scale (week two: DM[95%CI]: 19,03[13,2 to 25,6], 71 animals; week four: 7,4[5,4 to 9,5], 47 animals). Shock wave induced recovery improvements were temporarily significant. In conclusion, there is significant evidence for low-intensity ultrasound but not for extracorporeal shock wave treatment to improve nerve regeneration. Prospective clinical trials should therefore investigate available FDA-approved ultrasound devices as adjunct postoperative treatment following nerve surgery.

Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound for treatment of tibial fractures: an economic evaluation of the TRUST study

AIMS

This 501-patient, multi-centre, randomised controlled trial sought to establish the effect of low-intensity, pulsed, ultrasound (LIPUS) on tibial shaft fractures managed with intramedullary nailing. We conducted an economic evaluation as part of this trial.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data for patients' use of post-operative healthcare resources and time taken to return to work were collected and costed using publicly available sources. Health-related quality of life, assessed using the Health Utilities Index Mark-3 (HUI-3), was used to derive quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). Costs and QALYs were compared between LIPUS and control (a placebo device) from a payer and societal perspective using non-parametric bootstrapping. All costs are reported in 2015 Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated.

RESULTS

With a cost per device of $3,995, the mean cost was significantly higher for patients treated with LIPUS versus placebo from a payer (mean increase = $3647, 95% confidence interval (CI) $3244 to $4070; p < 0.001) or a societal perspective (mean increase = $3425, 95% CI $1568 to $5283; p < 0.001). LIPUS did not provide a significant benefit in terms of QALYs gained (mean difference = 0.023 QALYs, 95% CI -0.035 to 0.069; p = 0.474). Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios of LIPUS compared with placebo were $155 433/QALY from a payer perspective and $146 006/QALY from a societal perspective.

CONCLUSION

At the current price, LIPUS is not cost-effective for fresh tibial fractures managed with intramedullary nailing. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:1526-32.

Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound promotes cell motility through vinculin-controlled Rac1 GTPase activity

Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) is a therapy used clinically to promote healing. Using live-cell imaging we show that LIPUS stimulation, acting through integrin-mediated cell-matrix adhesions, rapidly induces Rac1 activation associated with dramatic actin cytoskeleton rearrangements. Our study demonstrates that the mechanosensitive focal adhesion (FA) protein vinculin, and both focal adhesion kinase (FAK, also known as PTK2) and Rab5 (both the Rab5a and Rab5b isoforms) have key roles in regulating these effects. Inhibiting the link of vinculin to the actin-cytoskeleton abolished LIPUS sensing. We show that this vinculin-mediated link was not only critical for Rac1 induction and actin rearrangements, but was also important for the induction of a Rab5-dependent increase in the number of early endosomes. Expression of dominant-negative Rab5, or inhibition of endocytosis with dynasore, also blocked LIPUS-induced Rac1 signalling events. Taken together, our data show that LIPUS is sensed by cell matrix adhesions through vinculin, which in turn modulates a Rab5-Rac1 pathway to control ultrasound-mediated endocytosis and cell motility. Finally, we demonstrate that a similar FAK-Rab5-Rac1 pathway acts to control cell spreading upon fibronectin.

Treatment of aseptic non-union after intramedullary nailing without removal of the nail

Failure of bone healing after intramedullary nailing of a diaphyseal long bone fracture is a severe complication that requires an effective management to ensure the best chances for successful bone-union and termination of a long period of incapacity and morbidity for the sufferers. Traditional procedures require removal of the existing nail and re-fixation with wider nail, plate or external fixation constructs. The concept that bone union can be obtained with the existing nail in situ is gaining popularity as its removal adds trauma and potential complications and prolongs the operating time. This article reviews all techniques that have been proposed for the management of aseptic diaphyseal long bone non-unions that stimulate bone healing without removing the existing nail.

Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound does not influence bone healing by distraction osteogenesis: a multicentre double-blind randomised control trial

AIMS

The aim of this double-blind prospective randomised controlled trial was to assess whether low intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) accelerated or enhanced the rate of bone healing in adult patients undergoing distraction osteogenesis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 62 adult patients undergoing limb lengthening or bone transport by distraction osteogenesis were randomised to treatment with either an active (n = 32) or a placebo (n = 30) ultrasound device. A standardised corticotomy was performed in the proximal tibial metaphysis and a circular Ilizarov frame was used in all patients. The rate of distraction was also standardised. The primary outcome measure was the time to removal of the frame after adjusting for the length of distraction in days/cm for both the per protocol (PP) and the intention-to-treat (ITT) groups. The assessor was blinded to the form of treatment. A secondary outcome was to identify covariates affecting the time to removal of the frame.

RESULTS

There was no difference in the time to removal of the frame between the PP (difference in favour of the control group was 10.1 days/cm, 95% confidence interval (CI) -3.2 to 23.4, p = 0.054) or ITT (difference 5.0 days/cm, 95% CI -8.2 to 18.21, p = 0.226) groups. The smoking status was the only covariate which increased the time to removal of the frame (hazard ratio 0.47, 95% CI 0.22 to 0.97, p = 0.042).

CONCLUSION

LIPUS does not influence the rate of bone healing in patients who undergo distraction osteogenesis. Smoking may influence bone healing. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:494-502.

Failed treatment of long bone nonunions with low intensity pulsed ultrasound

INTRODUCTION

The use of low intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) in the treatment of nonunions is still controversial. The present study is concerned with whether this procedure has a clinical use and which cofactors influence its therapeutic results.

METHODS

In this prospective, single institution, observational study, data from October 2010 to October 2013 from 61 nonunions in 60 patients treated with EXOGEN(®) LIPUS therapy were analysed. The average age was 45.4 ± 9.81 (18-63) years. Treatment was primarily done on long bones of the lower extremity (75.4 %). All 61 nonunions were examined after treatment, and the rate of healing as well as functional and subjective results were evaluated. Based on clinical and radiological findings, patients were divided into two groups: G1-successful treatment; and G2-unsuccessful treatment. Groups were compared to one another to identify possible factors influencing treatment.

RESULTS

Twenty (32.8 %) patients showed bone consolidation with an average time of healing of 5.3 (2-7) months. In patients without successful treatment, who underwent revision surgery instead, full weight bearing took on average 3.7 months longer, and they were able to return to work 6.8 months later. Most of the treated patients (70.5 %) reported no improvement in pain. In G2, 12 (29.3 %) patients suffered in their previous history from osteitis; in G1 there were only two patients (10 %) (p = 0.012). There were further significant differences in the age of the fracture, the type of osteosynthesis, the gap size, as well as the NUSS score.

CONCLUSION

Despite patients being chosen strictly according to EXOGEN(®) indications, only a small number of patients with nonunions who underwent LIPUS therapy experienced successful treatment (32.8 %). Overall, its use resulted in a clear delay in the time of treatment, so that according to our results, the use of LIPUS should be seen critically in long bone nonunions and use should be made on a case-by-case basis.

Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound treatment as an alternative to vascular bone graft surgery for a 5-year-long ulnar non-union in a patient with haemochromatosis

We present the case of a 75-year-old woman with haemochromatosis who developed a 5-year-long right ulnar non-union after a shortening osteotomy to correct a malunited Colles' fracture. Standard surgical treatment for ulnar non-unions was attempted on 19 March 2008 and again on 20 April 2009, but the non-union persisted on 8 May 2012, as confirmed by CT scan. Vascular bone grafting and refixation was then considered, but the patient declined this extensive operation, instead choosing to try non-invasive low-intensity pulsed ultrasound treatment with an Exogen device. Just 4 months later, complete union as confirmed by CT scan was achieved. This is the first case demonstrating the efficacy of ultrasound treatment for long-standing non-unions resistant to surgery in patients with haemochromatosis, a disorder where iron deposition can provide suboptimal circumstances for bone healing. Our finding suggests that low-intensity pulsed ultrasound devices could be used as a first-line treatment for stable non-unions instead of revision surgery.

Treatment of chronic (>1 year) fracture nonunion: heal rate in a cohort of 767 patients treated with low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS)

BACKGROUND

Established fracture nonunions rarely heal without secondary intervention. Revision surgery is the most common intervention, though non-surgical options for nonunion would be useful if they could overcome nonunion risk factors. Our hypothesis is that low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) can enhance heal rate (HR) in fractures that remain nonunion after one year, relative to the expected HR in the absence of treatment, which is expected to be negligible.

METHODS

We collated outcomes from a prospective patient registry required by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration. Patient data were collected over a 4-year period beginning in 1994 and were individually reviewed and validated by a registered nurse. Patients were only included if they had four data points available: date when fracture occurred; date when LIPUS treatment began; date when LIPUS treatment ended; and a dichotomous outcome of healed vs. failed, assessed by clinical and radiological criteria. Data were used to calculate two derived variables: days to treatment (DTT) with LIPUS, and days on treatment (DOT) with LIPUS. Every validated chronic nonunion patient (DTT>365 days) with complete data is reported.

RESULTS

Heal rate for chronic nonunion patients (N=767) treated with LIPUS was 86.2%. Heal rate was 82.7% among 98 patients with chronic nonunion ≥5 years duration, and 12 patients healed after chronic nonunion >10 years (HR=63.2%). There was more patient loss to follow-up, non-compliance, and withdrawal, comparing chronic nonunion patients to all other patients (p<0.0001). Patient age was the only factor associated with failure to heal among chronic nonunions (p<0.004). Chronic nonunion patients averaged 3.1 surgical procedures prior to LIPUS, but some LIPUS-treated patients were able to heal without revision surgery. Among 91 patients who received LIPUS ≥90 days after their last surgery, HR averaged 85.7%, and the time from last surgery to index use of LIPUS averaged 449.6 days.

CONCLUSIONS

Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound enhanced HR among fractures that had been nonunion for at least 1 year, and even healed fractures that had been nonunion >10 years. LIPUS resulted in successful healing in the majority of nonunions without further surgical intervention.

Vision Amniotic Leak Detector (ALD) to Eliminate Amniotic Fluid Leakage as a Cause of Vaginal Wetness in Pregnancy: A NICE Medical Technology Guidance

In prelabour rupture of membranes (PROM) or preterm PROM the amniotic membranes rupture prior to labour. Where this is not overt a speculum examination is undertaken to confirm diagnosis. The Vision Amniotic Leak Detector (ALD) is a panty liner that can diagnose amniotic fluid as a cause of vaginal wetness. It was evaluated by the UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) as part of the Medical Technologies Evaluation Programme. The sponsor (CommonSense Ltd) identified five studies, of which three were deemed within scope by the External Assessment Centre (EAC). Two of these three used an inappropriate comparator. The EAC recalculated the diagnostic accuracy of Vision ALD using speculum examination as the comparator: sensitivity of 97% (95% CI 93-99%), negative predictive value of 96% (95% CI 92-98%). A negative result would therefore allow patients to be discharged with confidence. In the sponsor's cost-consequence model only patients with a positive Vision ALD result would have a speculum examination, producing a cost saving of around £10 per patient. The EAC felt that some costs were unjustified and the model did not include infection outcomes or use in a community setting. The EAC revised the sponsor's model and found the results were most sensitive to clinician costs. Vision ALD was associated with savings of around £15-£25 per patient when administration in lower-cost community healthcare avoided a referral to a higher-cost secondary-care centre. NICE published guidance MTG15 in July 2013 recommending that the case for adopting Vision ALD was supported by the evidence.

EXOGEN ultrasound bone healing system for long bone fractures with non-union or delayed healing: a NICE medical technology guidance

A routine part of the process for developing National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) medical technologies guidance is a submission of clinical and economic evidence by the technology manufacturer. The Birmingham and Brunel Consortium External Assessment Centre (EAC; a consortium of the University of Birmingham and Brunel University) independently appraised the submission on the EXOGEN bone healing system for long bone fractures with non-union or delayed healing. This article is an overview of the original evidence submitted, the EAC's findings, and the final NICE guidance issued.