Cannabidiol for Postoperative Pain Control After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair Demonstrates No Deficits in Patient-Reported Outcomes Versus Placebo: 1-Year Follow-up of a Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Cannabidiol (CBD) has been shown recently to positively affect patient pain and satisfaction immediately after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR). However, it is unclear whether the addition of CBD to a perioperative regimen could affect postoperative outcomes.

Purpose

To evaluate patient-reported outcomes among patients who underwent ARCR and received buccally absorbed CBD or an identical placebo for early postoperative pain management at 1-year follow-up.

Study Design

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods

Eligible patients had previously participated in a multicenter, placebo-controlled, randomized, double-blinded trial that evaluated the analgesic effects of CBD in the immediate postoperative period after ARCR. The experimental group received 25 mg of CBD 3 times/day if <80 kg and 50 mg of CBD 3 times/day if >80 kg for 14 days, with the control group receiving an identical placebo. The following outcomes were assessed at minimum 1-year follow-up: visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), and patient satisfaction. The rates of achievement of the Patient Acceptable Symptom State (PASS) were compared based on ASES at latest follow-up. Continuous and categorical variables were compared with the Mann-Whitney U test and Fisher exact test, respectively.

Results

Follow-up was obtained from 83 of 99 patients (83.8%) who completed the original trial. There were no significant differences between the CBD and control groups with respect to age, sex, body mass index, rate of concomitant procedures, or number of anchors used intraoperatively. At 1-year follow-up, there were no significant differences between the CBD and control groups in VAS pain (0.8 vs 1.2, P = .38), ASES (93.0 vs 91.1, P = .71), SANE (87.6 vs 90.1, P = .24), or satisfaction (97.4 vs 95.4, P = .41). A majority of patients achieved the PASS (81.0% [CBD] vs 77.5% [control]; P = .79).

Conclusion

Perioperative use of CBD for pain control among patients undergoing ARCR did not result in any significant deficits in pain, satisfaction, or patient-reported outcomes at 1-year postoperatively compared with a placebo control group. These findings suggest that CBD can be considered in a postoperative multimodal pain management regimen without detrimental effects on outcome.

Registration

NCT04672252 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).

Comparison of Multiple Surgical Treatments for Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears in Patients Younger Than 70 Years of Age: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Massive irreparable rotator cuff tears (MIRCTs) remain a challenging treatment paradigm, particularly for nonelderly patients without pseudoparalysis or arthritis.

PURPOSE

To use a network meta-analysis to analyze comparative studies of surgical treatment options for MIRCTs in patients <70 years of age for several patient-reported outcomes, range of motion (ROM), and acromiohumeral distance (AHD).

STUDY DESIGN

Network meta-analysis of comparative studies; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature, using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, of the MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases was conducted from 2017 to 2022. Inclusion criteria were (1) clinical comparative studies of MIRCTs (with several study-specific criteria); (2) ≥1 outcome of interest reported on, with standard deviations; (3) minimum 1-year follow-up; and (4) mean age of <70 years for both cohorts, without arthritis or pseudoparalysis. There were 8 treatment arms compared. Outcomes of interest were the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Constant-Murley score, visual analog scale for pain, AHD, and forward flexion and external rotation ROM. A frequentist approach to network meta-analysis with a random-effects model was performed using the netmeta package Version 0.9-6 in R.

RESULTS

A total of 23 studies met the inclusion criteria, with 1178 patients included in the network meta-analysis. There was a mean weighted age of 62.8 years, 568 (48.2%) men, with a mean follow-up of 28.9 months. There were no significant differences between groups in regard to sex (P = .732) or age (P = .469). For the ASES score, InSpace balloon arthroplasty (mean difference [MD], 12.34; 95% CI, 2.18 to 22.50; P = .017), arthroscopic bridging graft (aBG) (MD, 7.07; 95% CI, 0.28 to 13.85; P = .041), and long head of biceps augmented superior capsular reconstruction (BSCR) (MD, 5.16; 95% CI, 1.10 to 9.22; P = .013) resulted in the highest P-scores. For the Constant-Murley score, debridement (MD, 21.03; 95% CI, 8.98 to 33.08; P < .001) and aBG (MD, 6.97; 95% CI, 1.88 to 12.05; P = .007) resulted in the highest P-scores. For AHD, BSCR resulted in the highest P-score (MD, 1.46; 95% CI, 0.45 to 2.48; P = .005). For forward flexion ROM, debridement (MD, 45.77; 95% CI, 25.41 to 66.13; P < .001) resulted in the highest P-score, while RSA resulted in the lowest P-score (MD, -16.70; 95% CI, -31.20 to -2.20; P = .024).

CONCLUSION

For patients <70 years with MIRCT without significant arthritis or pseudoparalysis, it appears that graft interposition repair techniques, superior capsular reconstruction using the long head of the biceps tendon, arthroscopic debridement, and balloon arthroplasty provide superiority in various outcome domains, while RSA provides the least benefit in forward flexion.

Effect of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers on need for operative intervention for idiopathic adhesive capsulitis

Background

The exact pathogenesis of idiopathic adhesive capsulitis (IAC) is not fully understood, but an inflammatory profibrotic cascade, largely mediated by transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF- β1) has been implicated. Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-Is) both decrease the activity of TGF-β1. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of ACE-Is or ARBs use on the need for operative intervention in IAC.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients from a single institutional database with IAC, divided into two cohorts, with and without ACE-I and/or ARB use as the primary exposure and a minimum 2-year follow-up. The primary outcome measured was the incidence of operative intervention including manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) and arthroscopic capsular release (ACR). Additional multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate associations between ACE-I/ARB use and likelihood of undergoing an operative procedure.

Results

A total of 17,645 patients met inclusion criteria, with 5424 patients in the ACE-I/ARB cohort and 12,221 in the non-ACE-I/ARB cohort. Overall, 422 (2.4%) patients underwent surgical treatment, 378 (2.1%) ACR, and 74 (0.4%) MUA. There was no significant difference between cohorts in the frequency of surgical procedures or time to procedure since diagnosis. There were no significant differences between individual ACE-Is or ARBs, although Losartan was found to have a trend of decreased rate of intervention (31.7% vs. 36.8%, P = .209) when compared to patients not on losartan that did not reach statistical significance. Patient factors predictive of undergoing MUA/ACR were diabetes (P = .013), obesity (P < .001), and male sex (P < .001). Increasing patient age reduces the likelihood of undergoing operative intervention, with patients aged 50-70 years (P = .022) and age >70 years (P < .001) demonstrating reduced odds as compared to patients aged <30 years.

Conclusion

Patients with IAC have an overall low (2.4%) rate of requiring surgical intervention. While the antifibrotic mechanism of ACE inhibitors and ARBs did not significantly affect the rate of requiring surgical intervention, male gender, obesity, younger age, and diabetes, all increased the risk for operative intervention. Losartan, specifically, may have a disease modifying effect on IAC that should be investigated with larger controlled trials.

Return to Sport after Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair of Full-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tears: A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVE

Perform a systematic literature review regarding return to sport (RTS) outcomes after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (aRCR) for full-thickness rotator cuff tears (FTRCTs).

DATA SOURCES

Systematic review of all articles in PubMed, Medline, and Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE) was conducted in April 2022 using a combination of keywords: "rotator cuff repair," "RCR," "complete," "full-thickness," "tear," "RCT," "injury," "shoulder," "arthroscopic," "return to sport," "RTS," "sport," "return to play," and "athlete." Cohorts were included from all articles reporting RTS after aRCR for FTRCTs. Studies that were non-English, failed to distinguish between partial and FTRCT outcomes, or treated FTRCTs by open RCR, mini-open RCR, debridement, or nonsurgical management were excluded. Abstracted data included study design, surgical techniques, concomitant procedures, demographics, FTRCT type and size, patient-reported outcomes, type of sport, competition level, time to return, and reasons for failing to RTS.

MAIN RESULTS

11 studies were reviewed, with inclusion of 463 patients (385 athletes; mean age 47.9). RTS varied considerably in rate and timing, with 50.0% to 100% of patients returning on average between 4.8 to 14 months. In addition, 31 patients returned to a higher level of sport, 107 returned to or near preinjury level, and 36 returned to a lower level of competition or failed to RTS entirely.

CONCLUSIONS

The ability for athletes to RTS after aRCR for FTRCTs is likely multifactorial, demonstrating high variability in return rates and time to RTS. Given the paucity of available literature, future studies are warranted to provide a more definitive consensus.

Excellent Correlation of the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Upper Extremity Score With Legacy Outcome Scores Preoperatively and at 1 Year After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

Purpose

To assess the preoperative and postoperative performance of the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Upper Extremity (PROMIS-UE, version 2.0) outcome score in comparison to the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) and Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index (WORC) instruments in patients undergoing rotator cuff repair.

Methods

This prospective longitudinal study included 91 patients undergoing rotator cuff repair. Patients completed the PROMIS-UE, ASES, and WORC instruments preoperatively and postoperatively at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 12 months. The Pearson correlation coefficient (r) between these tools was calculated at each time point. Correlations were graded as excellent (>0.7), excellent-good (0.61-0.7), good (0.4-0.6), or poor (<0.4). Responsiveness to change was assessed using the effect size and the standardized response mean. Floor and ceiling effects for each instrument were also assessed.

Results

The PROMIS-UE instrument showed good to excellent correlation with the legacy instruments at all time points. There were variations in the measured effect sizes of the various instruments, with the PROMIS-UE instrument showing responsiveness to change at 3 and 12 months but the ASES and WORC instruments showing responsiveness at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 12 months. Both PROMIS-UE and ASES scores displayed ceiling effects at 12 months.

Conclusions

The PROMIS-UE instrument shows excellent correlation with the ASES instrument and a rotator cuff-specific outcome instrument-the WORC instrument-preoperatively and at 1 year after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Variations in the measured effect sizes at different postoperative time points and high ceiling effects of the PROMIS-UE instrument at the 1-year time point may limit its utility in the early postoperative phase and at long-term follow-up after rotator cuff repair.

Clinical Relevance

The performance of the PROMIS-UE outcome measure after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair was investigated.

Minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and substantial clinical benefit (SCB) of upper extremity PROMIS scores following arthroscopic rotator cuff repairs

PURPOSE

To calculate and determine what factors are associated with achieving the Minimal Clinically Important Difference (MCID) and the Substantial Clinical Benefit (SCB) of Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Upper Extremity Computer Adaptive Testing v2.0 (UE), Pain Interference (P-Interference), and Pain Intensity (P-Intensity) in patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (aRCR).

METHODS

The change in PROMIS scores representing the optimal cutoff for a ROC curve with an area under the curve analysis was used to calculate the anchor-based MCID and SCB. To assess the responsiveness of each PROM, effect sizes and standardized response means (SRM) were calculated. To identify factors associated with attaining the MCID and SCB, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

A total of 323 patients with an average age of 59.9 ± 9.5 were enrolled in this study, of which, 187/323 [57.9%] were male and 136/323 [42.1%] were female. The anchor-based MCID for PROMIS UE, P-Interference, and P-Intensity was: 9.0, 7.5, and 11.2, respectively. The respective SCB was 10.9, 9.3, and 12.7. Effect size and SRM were: PROMIS UE (1.4, 1.3), P-Interference (1.8, 1.5), and P-Intensity (2.3, 2.0). Lower preoperative P-Intensity scores (p = 0.02), dominant arm involvement (p = 0.03), and concomitant biceps tenodesis (p = 0.03) were associated with patients achieving the SCB for PROMIS UE.

CONCLUSION

A large responsiveness for each of the PROMIS instruments due to the majority of patients reporting great improvement after aRCR and a small standard deviation across all outcome measures was shown in our study. Lower preoperative P-Intensity scores and concomitant biceps tenodesis were associated with higher odds of achieving the SCB for PROMIS UE. The knowledge of MCID and SCB values for PROMIS instruments will allow the surgeon to determine whether the improvements in the PROMIS scores after aRCR are clinically meaningful.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Buccally Absorbed Cannabidiol Shows Significantly Superior Pain Control and Improved Satisfaction Immediately After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blinded, Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND

Despite the widespread use and sales of cannabidiol (CBD) products in the United States, there is a paucity of literature to evaluate its effectiveness, safety, or ideal route of administration for postoperative pain.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the potential analgesic effects of buccally absorbed CBD in patients who have undergone arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR).

STUDY DESIGN

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

METHODS

This was a US Food and Drug Administration-sanctioned, multicenter, placebo-controlled, randomized, double-blinded trial conducted in patients undergoing ARCR. Patients aged from 18 to 75 years undergoing ARCR were prospectively enrolled and randomized to the control and experimental groups. The experimental group received an oral, buccally absorbed tablet containing 25 mg of CBD 3 times a day if <80 kg, or 50 mg of CBD 3 times a day if >80 kg, for 14 days postoperatively, while the control group received an identical placebo. Patients were followed up on days 1, 2, 7, and 14, and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain scores, opioid consumption, and satisfaction with pain control were recorded. Additionally, liver function tests were conducted on days 7 and 14 to assess safety, and nausea was monitored. P < .05 was considered to be statistically significant.

RESULTS

Overall, 100 patients were recruited, with 1 patient being excluded, for a total of 99 patients. There were no significant differences in patient demographics between the 2 groups. On day 1, the VAS pain score was significantly lower in the CBD group than in the control group (4.4 ± 3.1 vs 5.7 ± 3.2, respectively; P = .04), although this difference was no longer present on day 2 (4.7 ± 2.8 vs 5.3 ± 2.6, respectively; P = .32). On both days 1 and 2, patient satisfaction with pain control was significantly higher in the CBD group than in the control group (day 1: 7.0 ± 3.0 vs 5.6 ± 3.7, respectively [P = .04]; day 2: 7.3 ± 2.5 vs 6.0 ± 3.3, respectively [P = .03]). The quantity of opioids consumed was low in both groups, and there were no statistically significant differences in opioid consumption (P > .05). On days 7 and 14, there were no statistically significant differences in VAS scores, opioid consumption, or patient satisfaction with pain control between the CBD and control groups (P > .05 for all). There were no significant differences in liver function test results postoperatively (P > .05).

CONCLUSION

Buccally absorbed CBD demonstrated an acceptable safety profile and showed significant promise in the reduction of pain in the immediate perioperative period after ARCR compared with the control. Further studies are currently ongoing to confirm dosing and effectiveness in other orthopaedic conditions.

REGISTRATION

NCT04672252 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).

No Differences in 90-Day Complications and Admissions After Latarjet Procedure for Primary Bone Loss Versus Latarjet Procedure for Failed Arthroscopic Instability Repair

Purpose

To investigate the variance in 90-day complication, emergency department (ED) visit, revision, and readmission rates between the Latarjet procedure (LP) performed as a primary procedure for the treatment of recurrent shoulder instability associated with critical levels of glenohumeral bone loss and the LP performed as a salvage surgical procedure after failed arthroscopic instability repair (FAIR).

Methods

Patients who underwent a primary LP from 2016-2021 in a single surgeon’s practice were identified and divided into 2 cohorts based on the indication for surgery: primary LP for critical bone loss (unipolar or bipolar) (LP-PBL) or LP as salvage surgery for FAIR (LP-FAIR). Patients without a minimum follow-up period of 90 days were excluded. Chart review was conducted to analyze the prevalence of complications, ED visits and/or admissions, and secondary procedures in the 90-day postoperative period. Radiographic images were reviewed to evaluate for graft and/or hardware failure. An unpaired t test and the Fisher exact test were used to compare the 2 groups regarding continuous and categorical data, respectively, and the significance level was set at P < .05.

Results

The final sample sizes consisted of 54 patients in the LP-PBL group and 23 patients in the LP-FAIR group. In the postoperative period, 4 complications were observed in the first 90 days. These included complex regional pain syndrome (n = 1) and superficial wound dehiscence (n = 1) in the LP-PBL cohort. Superficial suture abscess (n = 1) and audible crepitation (n = 1) were observed in the LP-FAIR cohort. There was 1 secondary intervention (arthroscopic debridement) in the LP-FAIR cohort. No statistically significant difference in complication rates, ED visits or admissions, or secondary procedures was found between the LP-PBL and LP-FAIR groups.

Conclusions

The results of this study indicate that the 90-day complication, ED visit, revision, and readmission rates after open LP are low irrespective of the extent of glenoid or bipolar bone loss and history of arthroscopic instability repair.

Level of Evidence

Level III, retrospective cohort study.

Outcomes of Arthroscopic Tuberoplasty for Symptomatic Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tendon Tear Without Pseudoparalysis

Background

The purpose of this study is to report the outcomes in patients undergoing arthroscopic tuberoplasty for symptomatic irreparable rotator cuff tear (RCT).

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study comparing preoperative and postoperative data of patients undergoing arthroscopic tuberoplasty for symptomatic irreparable RCT. Exclusion criteria included open tuberoplasty, concomitant partial RCT repair, glenohumeral arthritis, concomitant ipsilateral extremity fractures, <12 months follow-up, or pseudoparalysis. Demographics, shoulder range of motion (ROM), RCT morphology, re-operation rates, satisfaction and outcome scores were collected from medical records and questionnaires. Outcome scores included Patient Reported Outcome Measurement Information System Upper Extremity (PROMIS), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (ASES), Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), and pain Visual Analog Score (VAS).

Results

Out of 28 patients identified between 2012 and 2019, 20 (21 shoulders) were available for follow-up at a mean of 43.3 ± 20.9 months. Mean age was 64.6 ± 8.8 years. Mean PROMIS was 37.7 ± 7.3, ASES was 82.9 ± 13.8, and SVV was 67.1 ± 19.4. VAS with activity decreased from 5.0 ± 2.9 preoperatively to 2.3 ± 2.6 (P = .0029). Pre- and post-operative ROM were unchanged. There were 4 failures requiring revision. The remaining 17 patients reported high satisfaction scores (3.4 ± 0.7) and 15 (88.2%) answered “yes” to getting the procedure again, with 3/4 failures stating they would also undergo arthroscopic tuberoplasty again.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic tuberoplasty demonstrates high levels of satisfaction and pain reduction in symptomatic irreparable RCT. In appropriately indicated patients, this treatment should be considered prior to other salvage options.

The future of health care service in orthopedic practice: telemedicine or in-person visits?

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to assess patient satisfaction and preference for telemedicine vs. in-person visits for outpatient shoulder and elbow musculoskeletal consultation during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and in the future.

METHODS

Patients who had telemedicine visits for shoulder and elbow musculoskeletal complaints at a single institution from March through June 2020 were invited to respond to a post-visit survey. The survey included a standardized questionnaire that focused on the patient's satisfaction with the telemedicine visits during the pandemic and preference for using the telemedicine platform in the future, following the pandemic. Additional details regarding their virtual visits (severity of medical condition, as well as previous virtual or emergency department visits) were also obtained. Data regarding patient demographic characteristics and visit details (primary diagnosis, type of visit, length of visit, and treating physician) were extracted from the electronic medical records.

RESULTS

In total, 153 patients participated in the study. Overall, high satisfaction scores regarding the telemedicine visits were noted: 91% of patients reported that their concerns were adequately addressed, 89% would recommend telemedicine to a friend, and 94% stated that they would use the telemedicine platform again in the presence of a situation similar to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the majority of patients (76%) reported a preference for in-person visits for the same musculoskeletal complaint if it were not for COVID-19. A telemedicine visit duration > 10 minutes and a first-time telemedicine visit correlated with higher satisfaction rates (P = .037 and P = .001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

COVID-19 has provided a boost to the use of our telemedicine platform, with a high satisfaction rate among patients with shoulder and elbow musculoskeletal complaints, largely owing to safety reasons and limited access to in-person doctor visits. However, a considerable number of patients would have preferred in-person visits for similar health complaints if there were no pandemic. Further research on optimizing the selection of patients for telemedicine visits and addressing their expectations and concerns regarding their visits will improve patients' preference for future telemedicine visits.

Locked Anterior-Inferior Sternoclavicular Joint Dislocation: A Case Report

CASE

We report a rare variant of sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) dislocation, namely locked anterior-inferior dislocation, with unique clinical, radiographic, and intraoperative findings. In this variant, the medial clavicle was displaced anteriorly and inferiorly and locked in the manubrial-intercostal space, with corresponding mechanical dysfunction of the ipsilateral shoulder girdle joints. Symptoms unique to this variant included painful neck spasms and limited glenohumeral elevation. Nonsurgical treatment was not successful, and open reduction and ligament reconstruction resulted in correction of the fixed deformity with resolution of the clinical symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Locked anterior-inferior SCJ dislocation is indicated for early open reduction and ligament reconstruction.

Correlation of Patient Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS) with American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon (ASES), and Constant (CS) scores in idiopathic adhesive capsulitis

PURPOSE

To correlate the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Upper Extremity (PROMIS UE) score with pre-existing validated outcome scores, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (ASES), and Constant score (CS) in patients with idiopathic adhesive capsulitis (AC).

METHODS

Patients with a clinical diagnosis of idiopathic AC ("freezing" or "frozen" phases) who agreed to complete the ASES, CS, and PROMIS UE scores during their office visit were included in this study. Trained researchers performed the objective clinical assessments on the included patients. Responses to the 3 outcome scores were statistically analyzed and compared using Pearson correlation coefficients. Floor and ceiling effects were calculated.

RESULTS

The final cohort included 100 patients with AC, of whom there were 72% female and 87% right hand dominant, with a mean age of 55 years. The PROMIS UE required fewer question responses (5.02 ± 1.84) compared with the fixed question burden with ASES (12) and CS (9). The mean outcome scores were 34.6 ± 2.5 (PROMIS UE), 55 ± 22 (ASES), and 51 ± 16 (CS). The PROMIS UE displayed an excellent correlation with both the ASES (r = 0.80, 95% confidence interval [0.72, 0.86], P < .001) and CS (r = 0.76, 95% confidence interval [0.67, 0.83], P < .001). Neither ceiling nor floor effects were present.

CONCLUSION

The PROMIS UE displayed comparable efficacy to commonly used legacy outcome scores (ASES and CS) in AC. A lower question burden with the PROMIS UE carries potential for wider acceptability with the researchers and patients with shoulder pathology.

Patient and Physician Satisfaction with Telehealth During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Sports Medicine Perspective

Background: Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a large shift in health care toward virtual platforms. This study analyzed patient and physician satisfaction with telehealth during the height of the pandemic within the division of sports medicine. Methods: All sports medicine patients who completed a telemedicine visit from March 30, 2020, through April 30, 2020, were sent a 14-question Likert scale (1-5/5) survey. Sports medicine physicians who used telemedicine were sent a separate 14-question Likert scale (1-5/5) survey at the end of the study period. Factors influencing patient satisfaction were determined using a multivariate linear regression model. Results: A total of 143 patients and 9 sports medicine attendings completed the surveys. Most patients were "satisfied" (4/5) or "very satisfied" (5/5) (88.8%). A multivariate linear regression determined that patients who believed they had a greater ability to adopt new technology and were more effective at communicating questions/concerns to their physicians had greater satisfaction (p = 0.009 and p = 0.015, respectively). Most physicians were either "satisfied" (4/5) or "very satisfied" (5/5) (75.0%). On average, physicians felt that physical examinations conducted through telemedicine were "moderately effective" (2.75/5.00 ± 1.3), that they were "fairly confident" (3.86/5.00 ± 0.83) in their diagnoses, and that most sports medicine attendings plan to use telemedicine in the future (87.5%). Conclusion: Telehealth emerged as a valuable tool for the delivery of health care to sports medicine patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients and physicians reported high levels of satisfactions with its use, and this study further identifies areas that can improve the patient and physician experience.

Efficacy of liposomal bupivacaine in shoulder surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

HYPOTHESIS

The aim of this meta-analysis was to compare the safety, efficacy, and opioid-sparing effect of liposomal bupivacaine (LB) vs. nonliposomal local anesthetic agents (NLAs) for postoperative analgesia after shoulder surgery.

METHODS

A systematic literature review of randomized controlled clinical studies comparing the efficacy of LB with NLAs in shoulder surgery was conducted. Seven level I and II studies were included in the meta-analysis, and shoulder surgical procedures included arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and shoulder arthroplasty. Bias was assessed using The Cochrane Collaboration's tool. The primary outcome measures were visual analog scale pain scores and opioid consumption 24 and 48 hours after shoulder surgery. Subgroup analysis was performed for the method of LB administration (interscalene nerve block vs. local infiltration).

RESULTS

A total of 7 studies (535 patients) were included in the final meta-analysis comparing LB (n = 260) with NLAs (n = 275). No significant difference was found between the LB and NLA groups in terms of visual analog scale pain scores at 24 hours (95% confidence interval, -1.02 to 0.84; P = .86) and 48 hours (95% confidence interval, -0.53 to 0.71; P = .78). Both groups had comparable opioid consumption at both 24 hours (P = .43) and 48 hours (P = .78) postoperatively and with respect to length of stay (P = .87) and adverse events (P = .97). Subgroup analysis demonstrated comparable efficacy irrespective of the method of administration of LB.

CONCLUSION

LB is comparable to NLAs with respect to pain relief, the opioid-sparing effect, and adverse effects in the first 48 hours after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and total shoulder arthroplasty.

Preoperative bisphosphonate treatment may adversely affect the outcome after shoulder arthroplasty

AIMS

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of preoperative bisphosphonate treatment on the intra- and postoperative outcomes of arthroplasty of the shoulder. The hypothesis was that previous bisphosphonate treatment would adversely affect both intra- and postoperative outcomes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted involving patients undergoing arthroplasty of the shoulder, at a single institution. Two patients with no previous bisphosphonate treatment were matched to each patient who had received this treatment preoperatively by gender, age, race, ethnicity, body mass index (BMI), and type of arthroplasty. Previous bisphosphonate treatment was defined as treatment occurring during the three-year period before the arthroplasty. The primary outcome measure was the incidence of intraoperative complications and those occurring at one and two years postoperatively. A total of 87 patients were included: 29 in the bisphosphonates-exposed (BP⁺) group and 58 in the non-exposed (BP^-) group. In the BP⁺ group, there were 26 female and three male patients, with a mean age of 71.4 years (51 to 87). In the BP^- group, there were 52 female and six male patients, with a mean age of 72.1 years (53 to 88).

RESULTS

Previous treatment with bisphosphonates was positively associated with intraoperative complications (fracture; odds ratio (OR) 39.40, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.42 to 6305.70) and one-year postoperative complications (OR 7.83, 95% CI 1.11 to 128.82), but did not achieve statistical significance for complications two years postoperatively (OR 3.45, 95% CI 0.65 to 25.28). The power was 63% for complications at one year.

CONCLUSION

Patients who are treated with bisphosphonates during the three-year period before shoulder arthroplasty have a greater risk of intraoperative and one-year postoperative complications compared with those without this previous treatment.

Performance outcomes after medial ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction in Major League Baseball positional players

BACKGROUND

We sought to determine whether professional baseball positional players who underwent medial ulnar collateral ligament (MUCL) reconstruction demonstrate decreases in performance on return to competition compared with preoperative performance metrics and their control-matched peers.

METHODS

Data for 35 Major League Baseball positional players who underwent MUCL reconstruction during 31 seasons were obtained. Twenty-six players met inclusion criteria. Individual statistics for the 2 seasons immediately before injury and the 2 seasons after injury included wins above replacement (WAR), on-base plus slugging (OPS), and isolated power (ISO). Twenty-six controls matched by player position, age, plate appearances, and performance statistics were identified.

RESULTS

Of the 35 athletes who underwent surgery, 7 did not return to their preinjury level of competition (return to play rate of 80%). In comparing preinjury with postinjury statistics, players exhibited a significant decrease in plate appearances, at-bats, and WAR 2 seasons after injury but did not demonstrate declines in WAR 1 season after injury. Compared with matched controls, athletes who underwent MUCL reconstruction did not demonstrate significant decline in statistical performance, including OPS, WAR, and ISO, after return to play from surgery. Of all positional players, catchers undergoing surgery demonstrated lowest rates of return to play (56%) along with statistically significant decreases in home run rate, runs batted in, and ISO.

CONCLUSION

Major League Baseball positional players undergoing MUCL reconstruction can reasonably expect to return to their preinjury level of competition and performance after surgery compared with their peers. Positional players return to play at a rate comparable to that of pitchers; catchers may experience more difficultly in returning to preinjury levels of play.

Arthroscopic Repair of Type II SLAP Tears Using Suture Anchor Technique

Arthroscopic SLAP tear repair has become an increasingly used treatment for patients presenting with symptomatic SLAP tears after failed nonoperative management. Debridement, SLAP repair, and open or arthroscopic biceps tenodesis or tenotomy have been used for the treatment of SLAP tears. Various techniques for repair have been described, and furthermore, there is a high incidence of concomitant pathology of the shoulder. Repair remains an excellent option in isolated SLAP tears amenable to repair, with excellent outcomes in well-indicated patients. We present a method for repairing a SLAP tear using standard suture anchor fixation, anterior and posterior portals, and an accessory portal of Wilmington. Adequate labral repair can be achieved with this technique in patients with no concomitant biceps pathology. This report highlights this technique for SLAP repair in patients with isolated symptomatic SLAP tears that have failed conservative management.

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for postoperative pain relief after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: a prospective double-blinded randomized trial

BACKGROUND

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) can be associated with significant postoperative pain. Concern for opioid abuse has led surgeons to identify alternative, efficacious methods of postoperative analgesia. To determine whether transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can have a similarly beneficial effect after shoulder procedures, we conducted a prospective double-blinded randomized trial in patients undergoing outpatient ARCR.

METHODS

All patients undergoing ARCR of a full-thickness rotator cuff tear by the senior authors were identified. Patients with a history of recent narcotic use or prior narcotic abuse and those under management of a pain control specialist were excluded. Patients were randomized into 2 groups, active or placebo TENS, and used the device for 4 sessions/day for 45 minutes/session for the first postoperative week. All patients received Percocet 5/325 mg (oxycodone/acetaminophen) for use as rescue pain pills. One-week narcotic consumption and visual analog scale pain scores were compared between groups.

RESULTS

The final analysis included 37 patients (21 active,16 placebo). Baseline and procedural differences were not different between groups. At 1 week postoperatively, patients in the active group had significantly lower pain scores (3.6 ± 2.1 vs. 5.8 ± 1.2; P= .008). Postoperative Percocet consumption during the initial 48 hours (12.8 ± 4.7 vs. 17.2 ± 6.3; P = .020) and during the first week (25.2 ± 9.9 vs. 33.8 ± 14.3; P = .037) was also significantly lower in the active group.

CONCLUSION

Results from this prospective double-blinded randomized trial demonstrate that compared with placebo TENS, active TENS can result in significantly less pain and reduced opioid use in the immediate postoperative period after ARCR, suggesting that TENS may be potentially useful in a multimodal approach to managing postoperative pain.

Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: Double-Row Transosseous Equivalent Suture Bridge Technique

Following a failed course of conservative management, arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) has become the gold standard treatment for patients presenting with symptomatic rotator cuff (RC) tears. Traditionally, the single-row repair technique was used. Although most patients enjoy good to excellent clinical outcomes, structural healing to bone remains problematic. As a result, orthopaedic surgeons have sought to improve outcomes with various technological and technical advancements. One such possible advancement is the double-row technique. We present a method for repairing an RC tear using double-row suture anchors in a transosseous equivalent suture bridge technique. The double-row technique is believed to more effectively re-create the anatomic footprint of the tendon, as well as increase tendon to bone surface area, and apposition for healing. However, it requires longer operating times and is costlier. This report highlights this technique for ARCR in an adult by using a double-row transosseous equivalent suture bridge.

Subsequent Shoulder Surgery After Isolated Arthroscopic SLAP Repair

PURPOSE

To quantify the incidence of and identify the risk factors for subsequent shoulder procedures after isolated SLAP repair.

METHODS

New York's Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System database was searched between 2003 and 2014 to identify individuals with the sole diagnosis of a SLAP lesion who underwent isolated arthroscopic SLAP repair. Patients were longitudinally followed up for a minimum of 3 years to analyze for subsequent ipsilateral shoulder procedures.

RESULTS

Between 2003 and 2014, 2,524 patients met our inclusion criteria. After 3 to 11 years of follow-up, 10.1% of patients (254 of 2,524) underwent repeat surgical intervention on the same shoulder as the initial SLAP repair. The mean time to repeat shoulder surgery was 2.3 ± 2.1 years. Subsequent procedures included subacromial decompression (35%), debridement (26.7%). repeat SLAP repair (19.7%), and biceps tenodesis or tenotomy (13.0%). After isolated SLAP repair, patients aged 20 years or younger were more likely to undergo arthroscopic Bankart repair (odds ratio [OR], 2.91; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.36-6.21; P = .005), whereas age older than 30 years was an independent risk factor for subsequent acromioplasty (OR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.4-3.7; P < .001) and distal clavicle resection (OR, 2.5; 95% CI, 1.1-5.5; P = .030). The need for a subsequent procedure was significantly associated with Workers' Compensation cases (OR, 2.4; 95% CI, 1.7-3.2; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

We identified a 10.1% incidence of subsequent surgery after isolated SLAP repair, often related to an additional diagnosis, suggesting that clinicians should consider other potential causes of shoulder pain when considering surgery for patients with SLAP lesions. In addition, the number of isolated SLAP repairs performed has decreased over time, and management of failed SLAP repair has shifted toward biceps tenodesis or tenotomy over revision SLAP repair in more recent years.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, case-control study.

Postoperative pain control after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) can provide excellent clinical results for patients who fail to respond to conservative management of symptomatic rotator cuff tears. ARCR, however, can be associated with severe postoperative pain and discomfort that requires adequate analgesia. As ARCR continues to shift toward being performed as an outpatient procedure, it is incumbent on physicians and ambulatory surgical centers to provide appropriate pain relief with minimal side effects to ensure rapid recovery and safe discharge. Although intravenous and oral opioids are the cornerstone of pain management after orthopedic procedures, they are associated with drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and increased length of hospital stay. As health care reimbursements continue to become more intimately focused on quality, patient satisfaction, and minimizing of complications, the need for adequate pain control with minimal complications will continue to be a principal focus for providers and institutions alike. We present a review of alternative modalities for pain relief after ARCR, including cryotherapy, intralesional anesthesia, nerve blockade, indwelling continuous nerve block catheters, and multimodal anesthesia. In choosing among these modalities, physicians should consider patient- and system-based factors to allow the efficient delivery of analgesia that optimizes recovery and improves patient satisfaction.

Disproportionate trends in ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction: projections through 2025 and a literature review

BACKGROUND

Medial ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries of the elbow that require surgical management are uncommon. There is growing evidence, however, suggesting that the incidence of UCL reconstruction (UCLR) procedures is rapidly increasing. We sought to quantify the incidence of age-related trends for UCLR from 2003 to 2014 and subsequently to project future trends through 2025. We hypothesized that as the total number of UCLRs performed increased, a disproportionate incidence among younger patients would be observed.

METHODS

New York State's Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System database was queried from 2003 to 2014 to identify individuals between 10 and 40 years old undergoing UCLR. Poisson regression was used to develop future projections for UCLR and New York State population through 2025, and incidence estimates per 100,000 people were calculated.

RESULTS

In New York State between 2003 and 2014, there were 890 patients who underwent UCLR, with average annual incidence per 100,000 people equaling 6.3 ± 2.8 for ages 15 to 19 years, significantly greater than for all other age groups (P < .001). Projections from 2015 through 2025 suggest that incidence in 15- to 19-year-olds and 20- to 24-year-olds will continue to rapidly increase while rates for other age groups will remain relatively stable.

CONCLUSIONS

The number of UCLRs performed between 2003 and 2014 increased by 343%, and a disproportionate trend in average annual incidence for patients between 15 and 19 years old was observed. As our review of the literature questioned outcomes in adolescent athletes after UCLR, continued attempts at preventing these injuries in the young throwing athlete remain paramount.

Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Capitellum: Diagnosis and Treatment

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the capitellum is an articular cartilage lesion commonly affecting young adolescents. The exact mechanism for the development of these lesions is still uncertain; however, both traumatic and vascular etiologies have been described. Careful physical examination in conjunction with appropriate diagnostic studies helps the surgeon to classify these lesions as stable or unstable and leads to proper management. There is a diverse array of treatments available for OCD lesions of the capitellum, including fragment excision or fixation, bone marrow stimulation, and osteochondral autograft transplantation. This review helps the orthopaedic surgeon understand the diagnosis and management options available for OCD lesions of the capitellum.

The Importance of Tear Edge Fixation in Modified Transosseous-Equivalent Rotator Cuff Repair: A Biomechanical Study

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of dog ear fixation with peripheral sutures on the biomechanical properties of transosseous-equivalent rotator cuff repair.

METHODS

Eight matched-pairs of fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders were dissected to create an isolated, full thickness supraspinatus tear. One shoulder in each matched pair was randomly selected for repair with a standard transosseous-equivalent suture-bridge technique (TOE), and the contralateral shoulder underwent TOE repair with additional tear edge fixation (TEF). Unidirectional tensile testing was conducted to determine cyclic displacement, linear stiffness, yield load, ultimate load, and mode of failure for each specimen.

RESULTS

The ultimate load and yield load were significantly higher for the TEF group (460 ± 104 N and 455 ± 97 N) than the TOE group (409 ± 111 N and 356 ± 143 N) (p = 0.020, p = 0.019, respectively). No statistical difference was noted in stiffness or displacement. Seven of eight TOE specimens versus two of eight TEF specimens failed by medial row tendon rupture, while one of eight TOE specimens versus five of eight TEF specimens failed by lateral row anchor pullout.

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of peripheral tear edge fixation to transosseous-equivalent rotator cuff repair improves the initial load to failure properties of the construct. However, dog ear fixation has no significant impact on cyclical displacement or stiffness.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Tear edge fixation with peripheral sutures should be considered to increase the initial strength of transosseous-equivalent rotator cuff repair while restoring the anatomic footprint. The addition of dog ear fixation may promote healing and minimize the risk of construct failure during the immediate postoperative period.

Accuracy of acromioclavicular joint injections

BACKGROUND

Injection to the acromioclavicular (AC) joint can be both diagnostic and therapeutic.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of in vivo AC joint injections.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Thirty patients with pain localized to the AC joint were injected with 1 mL of 1% lidocaine and 0.5 mL of radiographic contrast material (Isovue). Radiographs of the AC joint were taken after the injection. Each radiograph was reviewed by a musculoskeletal radiologist and graded as intra-articular, extra-articular, or partially intra-articular.

RESULTS

Of the 30 injections performed, 13 (43.3%) were intra-articular, 7 (23.3%) were partially articular, and 10 (33.3%) were extra-articular. When the intra-articular and the partially articular groups were combined, 20 patients (66.7%) had some contrast dye in the AC joint.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that despite the relatively superficial location of the AC joint, the clinical accuracy of AC joint injections remains relatively low.

Functional outcomes of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with tibialis anterior allograft

BACKGROUND

Allografts offer potential advantages over autografts in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), including the absence of donor site morbidity, shorter operative times, improved cosmesis, and easier rehabilitation. There is limited and conflicting outcome data for ACLR with tibialis anterior allograft. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the functional outcomes of ACLR with tibialis anterior allograft.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated primary ACL reconstructions using tibialis anterior allograft between January 2004 and December 2006. Clinical outcomes were measured by KT-1000 arthrometry, and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Lysholm, and Tegner scores.

RESULTS

19 patients were available for follow-up at a mean of 2.7 years (range: 2.0 to 3.2). One patient experienced a traumatic re-rupture that required revision and another patient was advised to undergo revision reconstruction for a failed graft. Based on IKDC and Lysholm scoring, 12 patients (63%) had good or excellent results, 4 (21%) patients had fair results, and 3 (16%) patients had poor results. The mean side-to-side difference was 2.7 mm (0 to 8.2) and the mean decrease in Tegner activity level was 1.4 (0 to 6).

CONCLUSION

An alarming number of patients demonstrated residual laxity after ACL reconstruction with tibialis anterior allograft. We recommend against using tibialis anterior allograft as a first choice graft for high demand patients.

The rising incidence of arthroscopic superior labrum anterior and posterior (SLAP) repairs

BACKGROUND

Superior labrum anterior-posterior (SLAP) lesions of the shoulder that require surgical repair are relatively uncommon. However, recent observations suggest that there may be a rise in the incidence of SLAP lesion repair.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative Systems (SPARCS) database from the New York State Department of Health was used to acquire data for all outpatient ambulatory surgery procedures that were performed in New York State from 2002 to 2010. The data were reviewed and analyzed to compare the incidence of arthroscopic SLAP lesion repairs relative to other outpatient surgical procedures.

RESULTS

Within New York State, from 2002 to 2010, the number of all ambulatory surgical procedures increased 55%, from 1,411,633 to 2,189,991. Correspondingly, the number of ambulatory orthopedic procedures increased 135%, from 118,126 to 278,136. In comparison, the number of arthroscopic SLAP repairs increased 464%, from 765 to 4,313 (P < .0001). This represented a population-based incidence of 4.0/100,000 in 2002 and 22.3/100,000 in 2010. The mean age of patients undergoing arthroscopic SLAP repair in 2002 was 37 ± 14 years. The mean age in 2010 was 40 ± 14 years (P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The data suggest a substantial increase in the number of arthroscopic SLAP repairs that is significantly more rapid than the rising rate of outpatient orthopedic surgical procedures. In addition, there is a significant increase in the age of patients who are being treated with arthroscopic SLAP repairs.

Anterior shoulder instability - a history of arthroscopic treatment

The glenohumeral joint is the most commonly dislocated joint in the body. The prevalence of this condition and the instability that may result from it has been a focus of diagnosis and treatment since the original description of the Bankart lesion in 1923. Now, with the introduction of MRI, lesions causing anterior shoulder instability can be diagnosed more accurately. This has led to improved understanding of the pathoanatomy that must be addressed and corrected during surgical repair. Initial attempts at arthroscopic treatment, including staple repair, transosseus suture repair, rivets, and thermal capsulorraphy were fraught with complications and unacceptably high recurrence rates. The development of arthroscopic suture anchors have revolutionized the treatment of anterior shoulder instability, such that arthroscopic management is now the standard of care. In the hands of experienced surgeons, outcomes for arthroscopic treatment of shoulder instability now approaches the success of open treatment.

Recovery of shoulder strength and proprioception after open surgery for recurrent anterior instability: a comparison of two surgical techniques

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have documented a decrease in proprioceptive capacity in the unstable shoulder. The degree to which surgical approach affects recovery of strength and proprioception is unknown.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The recovery of strength and proprioception after open surgery for recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability was compared for 2 surgical procedures. A prospective analysis of 55 consecutive patients with posttraumatic unilateral recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability was performed. Thirty patients (group 1) underwent an open inferior capsular shift with detachment of the subscapularis, and 25 (group 2) underwent an anterior capsulolabral reconstruction.

RESULTS

Mean preoperative proprioception and strength values were significantly lower for the affected shoulders in both groups. At 6 months after surgery, there were no significant differences for mean strength and proprioception values between the unaffected and operative sides for group 2 patients. In group 1 patients, however, there were still significant deficits in mean position sense and strength values. Complete restoration of proprioception and strength, however, was evident by 12 months in group 1.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that there are significant deficits in both strength and proprioception in patients with posttraumatic, recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability. Although both are completely restored by 1 year after surgery, a subscapularis-splitting approach allows for complete recovery of strength and position sense as early as 6 months postoperatively. Detachment of the subscapularis delays recovery of strength and position sense for up to 12 months after surgery.

Ipsilateral nonunions of the coracoid process and distal clavicle--a rare shoulder girdle fracture pattern

Coracoid fractures are uncommon injuries, in isolation or in association with other osseoligamentous injuries about the shoulder girdle. We report a case of successful operative management of symptomatic ipsilateral nonunions of a type I coracoid base fracture and a lateral one-third clavicular fracture, which developed following nonoperative treatment of this exceedingly rare injury pattern. Following open distal clavicle excision and reduction of the coracoclavicular interval with screw fixation, radiographic union and excellent clinical outcome were achieved. This rare and potentially troublesome injury pattern is discussed, and the literature regarding ipsilateral coracoid and osseoligamentous injuries about the shoulder is reviewed.

Management of humeral and glenoid bone loss--associated with glenohumeral instability

Anterior glenohumeral instability complicated by bone loss is a challenging problem and, when severe, may require surgical treatment with bone grafting. We review our institution's experience with humeral head and glenoid bone grafting for large Hill-Sachs lesions and glenoid defects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients who underwent intra-articular bone reconstruction for Hill-Sachs and large glenoid defects for anterior instability at our institution during 2002-2008 were retrospectively reviewed. Those who had undergone concomitant humeral head replacement were excluded. Six patients were identified as having undergone allograft or autograft iliac crest bone graft reconstruction of the glenoid, with four available for full follow-up (average 39 months; range, 7 to 63). Five patients were identified as having undergone humeral head allograft reconstruction and four were available for full follow-up (average 28 months; range, 11 to 40). The remaining three patients were available for telephone follow-up. American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES) and University of California, Los Angles (UCLA) scores were recorded and radiographs obtained.

RESULTS

Average postoperative ASES and UCLA scores for glenoid bone graft patients were 91 and 33, respectively. Average postoperative ASES and UCLA scores for humeral bone graft patients were 85.3 and 28.4, respectively. Glenoid bone graft shoulders, when compared to the opposite normal side, lost an average of 3° of forward flexion, 10° of external rotation, and two levels of internal rotation. Humeral head bone-grafted shoulders, lost an average of 23° of forward flexion, 8° of external rotation, and two levels of internal rotation. No episodes of recurrent subluxation or dislocations were reported. Radiographs showed no evidence of graft resorption or hardware prominence.

CONCLUSIONS

Bone grafting procedures around the shoulder for the treatment of instability provided relief from recurrent instability and good functional results.

Patella tendon rupture after arthroscopic resection of the prepatellar bursa--a case report

The use of arthroscopic techniques for excision of the pre-patellar bursa has become more common in recent years for the treatment of prepatellar bursitis. The current literature includes several case series that report few complications with this technique. We report the case of a 73-year-old male who sustained a low-energy patella tendon rupture 2 months after arthroscopic resection of the prepatellar bursa. We hypothesize that during arthroscopic excision of the prepatellar bursa there was an iatrogenic injury to the patellar tendon, which contributed to the subsequent rupture. Surgical repair was successfully performed using an open technique with a 1-year follow-up. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of patella tendon rupture following arthroscopic excision of the prepatellar bursa.

Snapping scapula syndrome

Snapping scapula syndrome arises from either a soft-tissue or a skeletal anomaly within the scapulothoracic space that creates a cracking sound during scapulothoracic motion that patients associate with pain. Nonoperative measures consisting of supervised physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and therapeutic injections are the mainstay of treatment. Open, arthroscopic, and combined operative approaches have been described for the treatment of refractory cases, with good overall outcomes in many relatively small case series. However, the optimal operative approach has yet to be determined.

Simultaneous bilateral distal biceps tendon rupture during a preacher curl exercise: a case report

Complete rupture of the distal biceps tendon is a rare injury, the overwhelming majority occurring in the dominant arm of males during the fourth to sixth decades of life. Simultaneous bilateral rupture of the distal biceps tendon is an extremely rare occurrence, with only three cases reported in the literature. This unusual injury occurred in a recreational weightlifter during a preacher curl exercise. In this particular case, a 6-week delay in presentation necessitated a staged procedure in which a primary repair was feasible in one elbow, while reconstruction using allograft tissue was required in the contralateral elbow. Satisfactory results for both elbows were achieved, with return to weightlifting by one year following surgery.

Arthroscopic revision of Bankart repair

The success of revision surgery for failed Bankart repair is not well known. This purpose of this study was to report the success rates achieved using arthroscopic techniques to revise failed Bankart repairs. Twelve arthroscopic revision Bankart repairs were performed on patients with recurrent unidirectional shoulder instability after open or arthroscopic Bankart repair. Follow-up was available on 11 of the 12 patients at a mean of 34.4 months (range, 25-56 months). The surgical findings, possible modes of failure, shoulder scores (Rowe score, University of California Los Angeles [UCLA], Simple Shoulder Test), and clinical outcome were evaluated. Various modes of failure were recognized during revision arthroscopic Bankart repairs. Good-to-excellent results were obtained in 8 patients (73%) undergoing revision stabilization according to Rowe and UCLA scoring. A subluxation or dislocation event occurred in 3 (27%) of the 11 patients at a mean of 8.7 months (range, 6-12 months) postoperatively. Arthroscopic revision Bankart repairs are technically challenging procedures but can be used to achieve stable, pain-free, functional shoulders with return to prior sport. Owing to limited follow-up and the small number of patients in this study, we were unable to conclude any pattern of failure or selection criteria for this procedure.

ACL injuries in the skeletally immature patient

Anterior cruciate ligament injuries in the pediatric and adolescent population are becoming more common with the trends of increased participation in competitive athletics in younger children. The natural history of this injury is similar to that of the adult and results in frequent reinjury, instability, and debilitation. Delayed reconstruction has proven to be a clinically effective treatment method but requires a prolonged restriction of competitive athletics. Reconstruction in the acute and subacute period has been shown by many authors to be a successful, reproducible treatment regimen. Nonetheless, the unique pitfalls of ACL reconstruction in a skeletally immature patient must not be overlooked. A thorough preoperative evaluation for leg-length discrepancy or subtle angular deformity is essential to identify the presence of an entity that might otherwise be attributed to surgical complication. For the patient nearing skeletal maturity with little growth remaining, we recommend the standard tunnel positioning and the use of soft-tissue graft. For younger patients who have significant growth remaining, alternative physeal "safe" procedures should be considered. No prospective, randomized studies compare the clinical success of graft type, graft placement, or graft fixation in this age group. Further follow-up of existing study groups and prospective research is warranted to fine-tune the result-based decision making for treatment of this injury.

Posterolateral corner injuries of the knee

The posterolateral region of the knee is an anatomically complex area that plays an important role in the stabilization of the knee relative to specific force vectors at low angles of knee flexion. A renewed interest in this region and advanced biomechanical studies have brought additional understanding of both the anatomy and the function of posterolateral structures in knee stabilization and kinematics. Through sectioning and loading studies, the posterolateral corner has been shown to play a role in the prevention of varus angulation, external rotation, and posterior translation. The potential for long-term disability from these injuries may be related to increased articular pressure and chondral degeneration. The failure of the reconstruction of cruciate ligaments may be due to unrecognized or untreated posterolateral corner injuries. Various methods of repair and reconstruction have been described and new research is yielding superior results from reconstruction of this region.

Glove tears during arthroscopic shoulder surgery using solid-core suture

PURPOSE

Surgeons have noticed an increased incidence of finger lacerations associated with arthroscopic knot tying with solid-core suture material. This study examines glove perforations and finger lacerations during arthroscopic shoulder surgery.

METHODS

We collected 400 surgical gloves from 50 consecutive arthroscopic shoulder repair procedures using No. 2 solid-core sutures. Two surgeons using double gloves were involved in every case, with one being responsible for tying all knots. Powder-free latex gloves were worn in all cases. Knots consisted of a sliding stitch of the surgeon's preference followed by 3 half-hitches via a knot-pusher instrument. All gloves were inspected grossly and then tested for tears with an electroconductivity meter.

RESULTS

The knot-tying surgeon had significantly more glove tears than the control (P < .01). Tears were localized to the radial side of the index finger of the glove at the distal interphalangeal joint in all cases. Of the tying surgeon's gloves, 68 (34%) were found to have tears. These included 17 inner gloves (17%) and 51 outer gloves (51%). If an inner glove was torn, the corresponding outer glove was torn in all cases. A mean of 3.96 knots were tied in each case. There was a significantly higher incidence of inner glove tears when more than 3 knots were tied (P < .03). There was no significant difference in glove tears between suture types. Finger lacerations did occur in the absence of glove tears. However, in the presence of an inner glove tear, there was a statistically significant association with a finger laceration at the corresponding level (P < .03).

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoperative glove tears and subsequent finger lacerations occur with a high frequency when arthroscopic knots are tied with solid-core suture material. Risk can potentially be minimized by frequent glove changes or use of more durable, less penetrable gloves.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

This study addresses surgeon and patient safety during arthroscopic shoulder surgery.

The effect of arthroscopic suture passing instruments on rotator cuff damage and repair strength

There are a variety of arthroscopic devices used to pass sutures through the rotator cuff for its repair. Because they vary in size and shape, it is possible that they could damage the cuff and affect the integrity of the repair. We chose four devices for assessment--SutureLasso (Arthrex, Naples, FL), straight BirdBeak (Arthrex, Naples, FL), Viper (Arthrex, Naples, FL), and a #7 tapered Mayo needle--and performed cuff reattachments in four paired shoulders using suture anchors. These repairs were cycled and tested to failure. The SutureLasso and Mayo needle repairs failed at approximately 285 N whereas the BirdBeak and Viper failed during cycling at 150 N. It appears that the devices, which made the bigger holes in the cuff, can compromise the integrity of the repair.

A biodegradable button to augment suture attachment in rotator cuff repair

Recent experimental studies suggest that the use of suture anchors for rotator cuff tear (RCT) repair transfers the "weak link" to the suture-tendon interface where failure occurs as the sutures cut through the tendon. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of using a suture augmentation button on the fixation strength of rotator cuff tendon repair. A 1.5 cm by 2 cm defect was created in the supraspinatus tendon of seven cadaveric shoulder pairs and two suture anchors inserted in each humerus for suture attachment. For one of each pair, the defect was repaired with sutures placed in a horizontal mattress configuration. The other side was repaired with the sutures being passed through low profile, bioabsorbable buttons placed on the bursal tendon surface prior to knot tying. The supraspinatus tendon was cyclically loaded at a physiologic rate and load (33 mm/sec and 180 N, respectively). The number of loading cycles was recorded when the specimens developed 0.75 cm and 1.5 cm gaps at the repair site. The specimens were then tested to failure. Specimens in the unaugmented group developed 0.75 cm and 1.5 cm gaps at an average of 135 cycles and 362 cycles, respectively. The button augmented group developed these gaps at average of 420 cycles and 708 cycles, respectively. These differences were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The gaps progressively increased in all specimens, which eventually failed by suture cutting through tendon in all specimens. This study demonstrates that in vitro, suture augmentation with a low profile, bioabsorbable button provides significantly enhanced fixation when using suture anchors to repair torn rotator cuff tendon. This device may be a useful adjunct to current methods of rotator cuff repair.

Arthroscopic versus mini-open rotator cuff repair: a comparison of clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction

This study compares the results of arthroscopic and arthroscopically assisted mini-open rotator cuff repair in a series of 84 patients who underwent repair of small, medium, or large tears between March 1997 and September 2001 with at least 2 years of follow-up. There were 42 arthroscopic repairs and 42 mini-open repairs. Of the patients, 81 (96.4%) had good or excellent UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles) scores (40 arthroscopic repairs [95.2%] and 41 mini-open repairs [97.6%]); there were 2 fair results and 1 poor outcome. The ASES (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons) scores averaged 91.1 for the arthroscopic group and 90.2 for the mini-open group (P > .05). Six patients required further surgery (three from the arthroscopic group and three from the mini-open group). Of 84 patients, 83 (98.8%) reported being satisfied with the procedure. At greater than 2 years of follow-up, arthroscopic and mini-open rotator cuff repairs produced similar results for small, medium, and large rotator cuff tears with equivalent patient satisfaction rates.

Posterior capsulorrhaphy for treatment of recurrent posterior glenohumeral instability

The surgical treatment of recurrent posterior shoulder instability via a posterior approach has had a variable degree of success reported in the literature with recurrence rates ranging between 8% and 45%. The purpose of this study was to review the results of posterior capsulorrhaphy in a consecutive series of patients with recurrent posterior instability. Seventeen consecutive patients underwent operative management for posterior glenohumeral instability. The dominant shoulder was involved in ten patients. All patients were male with an average age of 28.1 years (range: 16 to 54 years). Ten patients had sustained a specific injury which precipitated the instability. Six patients reported dislocations requiring formal closed reduction maneuvers; the remainder described episodes of recurrent subluxation with spontaneous reduction. All patients underwent a posterior capsulorrhaphy using an infraspinatus splitting approach. Eight shoulders required repair of a posterior capsulolabral detachment. In addition, one patient required augmentation with a posterior bone block for significant glenoid rim deficiency. Outcome was assessed by personal interview, clinical assessment, and standardized radiographs. At an average follow-up of 3.9 years (range: 1.8 to 10.8 years) patients estimated their overall shoulder function to be 81% of the contralateral unaffected shoulder. The subjective result was excellent for eight patients, good for five patients, fair in two patients, and poor in two patients. One of the poor outcomes was in a patient with glenohumeral degenerative changes at the index procedure which progressed and eventually required a total shoulder arthroplasty. The other poor result was in a patient found to have a full-thickness rotator cuff tear 10.6 years after the index procedure. Two patients (12%) had recurrence of their instability. Both of these patients sustained a significant re-injury which precipitated their symptoms. Five patients complained of occasional night pain at the time of their last follow-up examination. Only one patient (who was re-injured) had to change professions as a result of shoulder symptoms. Posterior capsulorrhaphy for treatment of isolated posterior glenohumeral instability yields satisfactory clinical results. Recurrent instability in this series was associated with a specific re-injury and did not appear to increase with longer follow-up.

Chronic exertional compartment syndrome: diagnosis and management

During exercise, muscular expansion and swelling occur. Chronic exertional compartment syndrome represents abnormally increased compartment pressures and pain in the involved extremity secondary to a noncompliant musculofascial compartment. Most commonly, it occurs in the lower leg, but has been reported in the thigh, foot, upper extremity, and erector spinae musculature. The diagnosis is obtained through a careful history and physical exam, reproduction of symptoms with exertion, and pre- and post-exercise muscle tissue compartment pressure recordings. It has been postulated that increased compartment pressures lead to transient ischemia and pain in the involved extremity. However; this is not universally accepted. Other than complete cessation of causative activities, nonoperative management of CECS is usually unsuccessful. Surgical release of the involved compartments is recommended for patients who wish to continue to exercise.

Assessment of clavicular translation after arthroscopic Mumford procedure: direct versus indirect resection--a cadaveric study

PURPOSE

To compare the horizontal stability of the distal clavicle following arthroscopic resection of its lateral end by direct and indirect techniques.

TYPE OF STUDY

Biomechanical test of cadaveric specimens.

METHODS

We performed arthroscopic distal clavicle resection on 12 fresh-frozen human cadaveric shoulders using direct (group 1, n = 6) or indirect (group 2, n = 6) approaches. In both groups 5 mm of distal clavicle were resected using an arthroscopic burr. The specimens were mounted on a materials testing device that allowed translation of the clavicle along the anteroposterior axis. The degree of posterior translation was measured from maximum anterior displacement of the clavicle.

RESULTS

Mean posterior translation was 19.4 mm (range, 18 to 23 mm; SD, 2.2) and 21.3 mm (range, 18 to 25 mm; SD, 3.1) for groups 1 and 2, respectively. This difference was not statistically significant ( P = .27).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that there is no significant difference in anteroposterior stability of the clavicle following arthroscopic distal clavicle resection with either a direct or indirect approach.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Clinically, this study addresses concerns about increased potential instability associated with the indirect technique of distal clavicle resection. From a biomechanical standpoint, based on this study, there is no concern for increased instability with the indirect technique of distal clavicle resection compared to a direct technique.

Anterior capsulolabral reconstruction for traumatic recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation

The anterior capsulolabral reconstruction (ACLR) has been shown to yield satisfactory results predominantly in overhead athletes with atraumatic anterior shoulder instability. The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical results of patients who underwent ACLR for recurrent traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation. A retrospective review of 41 patients, mean age 29 (range: 16 to 55 years) who underwent ACLR for traumatic recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation was performed. All patients reported a traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation with subsequent recurrent instability. Seven patients had undergone previous shoulder stabilization surgery which had failed. The mean number of previous dislocations was 4.5 (range: 1 to 15). There were 31 males and 10 females, and the dominant arm was involved in 24 patients. In all cases, the capsulolabral complex was detached from the glenoid rim. The mean follow-up was 3.6 years (range: 15 to 80 months). All patients were evaluated by physical examination. The mean modified Rowe score was 93.6 (range: 65 to 100). There were 32 excellent, 5 good, 1 fair, and 2 poor results. Instability was eliminated in 38 patients (93%). Of 25 patients who engaged in recreational sports, all were able to return to their previous level of participation. One patient sustained a traumatic redislocation and underwent revision surgery. Two patients reported atraumatic recurrent subluxation with one requiring revision surgery due to persistent symptoms of instability. There was no loss of range of motion in comparison to preoperative values. Of the seven shoulders that had undergone previous surgery, all remain stable. These results indicate that a glenoid-sided capsulolabral reconstruction can restore shoulder stability in patients with recurrent traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation. Success rates comparable to those of other open anterior shoulder repair procedures can be achieved.

A comparison of nonoperative and operative treatment of type II distal clavicle fractures

A retrospective study was performed to compare nonoperative and operative treatments of Type II distal clavicle fractures. From a total of 30 diagnosed patients, 16 were identified as receiving nonoperative treatment and 14 open reduction and coracoclavicular stabilization. The average follow-up was 53.5 months for the nonoperative group and 59.8 months for the operative group. All patients were evaluated postoperatively for pain, range of motion, function, and fracture healing as well as for isokinetic strength. Fractures treated surgically achieved union within six to ten weeks. Nonoperative treatment resulted in seven nonunions. There were no significant differences between the two groups in the mean UCLA, Constant, and ASES scores. Nonunion had no significant effect on functional outcome or strength. This study suggests that Type II distal clavicle fractures can be successfully managed nonoperatively. The high incidence of nonunion does not impede a clinical outcome comparable to that achieved by surgical treatment.