Matrix-Induced Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation Versus Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation of the Knee A Retrospective Comparison

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to compare the short-term clinical outcomes of matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) to those seen following traditional autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) in the management of symptomatic cartilage lesions of the knee.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent either ACI or MACI from January 2011 to March 2018. Patients with a minimum postoperative follow-up of 18 months were contacted. Demographic information, intraoperative findings, and patient-reported functional outcomes scores were collected. Comparisons were made between the two cell-based cartilage repair techniques.

RESULTS

Fifty-six patients were included in the study (39 ACI, 17 MACI). Visual analog scale (VAS) for pain scores improved significantly in both groups, with MACI patients demonstrating significantly lower postoperative pain scores compared to those treated with ACI. In the ACI group, there was a decrease in the Tegner Activity score compared to the preoperative baseline, while no significant difference was seen between pre- and postoperative activity levels in the MACI group. Patients were generally satisfied with the outcome of their procedures, and there was no significant difference in satisfaction between groups. No patients re-quired additional surgery during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

Both ACI and MACI demonstrated good short-term postoperative clinical results with improved pain and activity levels compared to the preoperative baseline. Patients treated with the MACI technique demonstrated greater reductions in pain scores compared to ACI, and while ACI resulted in a decrease in levels of postoperative activity, activity levels for MACI remained stable.

Superior Pain Reduction with Anteromedialization Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy Versus Non-Operative Management for Patellofemoral Osteoarthritis

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of patients with patellofemoral osteoar-thritis (PFOA) treated non-operatively with those treated operatively with an unloading anteromedialization tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO).

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed to identify patients with isolated PFOA who were either managed non-operatively or surgically with a TTO and who had a minimum follow-up of 2 years. Patients were surveyed with the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement (KOOS-JR), Anterior Knee Pain scale (Kujala), and Tegner Activity scale. Statistical analysis included two-sample t-testing, one-way ANOVA, and bivariate analysis.

RESULTS

The clinical outcomes of 49 non-operatively managed patients (mean age: 52.7 ± 11.3 years; mean follow-up: 1.7 ± 1.0 years) and 35 operatively managed patients (mean age: 31.8 ± 9.4 years; mean follow-up: 3.5 ± 1.7 years) were assessed. The mean VAS improved sig-nificantly in both groups [6.12 to 4.22 (non-operative), p < 0.0001; 6.94 to 2.45 (TTO); p < 0.0001], with operatively treated patients having significantly lower postoperative pain than non-operatively managed patients at the time of final follow-up [2.45 (TTO) vs. 4.22 (non-operative), p < 0.001]. The mean KOOS-JR score was significantly greater in the operative group at time of final follow-up [78.7 ± 11.6 (TTO) vs. 71.7 ± 17.8 (non-operative), p = 0.035]. There was no significant difference in Kujala or Tegner scores between the treatment groups. Additionally, there was no sig-nificant relationship between the number of intra-articular injections, duration of NSAID use, and number of physical therapy sessions on clinical outcomes in the non-operatively treated group (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

An unloading anteromedialization TTO provides significantly better pain relief and restoration of function compared to non-operative management in the treatment of symptomatic PFOA.

Glenohumeral arthrodesis outcomes and complications: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to systematically review the evidence in the literature to determine the clinical outcomes following glenohumeral arthrodesis.

METHODS

Two independent reviewers performed a literature search in the PubMed database based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies were included if they reported on outcomes following shoulder arthrodesis from the years of 2000-2022. Functional outcomes that were collected included the Subjective Shoulder Value, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons shoulder index score, visual analog scale pain score, and Oxford Shoulder Score. Range-of-motion data were also collected.

RESULTS

This review included 17 studies, with a total of 316 patients, that met the inclusion criteria. The majority of the patients were male (67.4%), and the average age was 38.4 years (range, 7-82 years). The overall fusion rate was 88.7%, and the time to fusion was on average, 3.9 months (range, 2-8 months). Shoulder arthrodesis resulted in improvement in each of the functional outcomes assessed: Subjective Shoulder Value (preoperatively, 18.8; postoperatively, 43.9; and percent change, 132.8%), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons shoulder index score (postoperatively, 62.1), visual analog scale pain score (preoperatively, 8.5; postoperatively, 3.03; and percent change, 62.4%), and Oxford Shoulder Score (preoperatively, 9.4; postoperatively, 30.9; and percent change, 328.7%). The abduction, forward flexion, external rotation, and internal rotation range-of-motion measurements postoperatively were 57°, 64°, 3°, and 48°, respectively. Complications were reported in 33.6% of patients, with fractures (20.9%) and infections (18.6%) being the most common sources of complication.

CONCLUSION

Shoulder arthrodesis provides improvement in functional outcomes for end-stage glenohumeral injuries; however, it is also associated with high rates of complications.

Association between radiographic soft-tissue thickness and increased length of stay, operative time, and infection rate after reverse shoulder arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is a widely performed surgical procedure to address various shoulder pathologies. Several studies have suggested that radiographic soft-tissue thickness may play a role in predicting complications after orthopedic surgery, but there have been limited studies determining the use of radiographic soft-tissue thickness in RSA. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether radiographic soft-tissue thickness could predict clinical outcomes after RSA and compare the predictive capabilities against body mass index (BMI). We hypothesized that increased radiographic shoulder soft-tissue thickness would be a strong predictor of operative time, length of stay (LOS), and infection in elective RSA.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective review of patients undergoing RSA at an academic institution was conducted. Preoperative radiographic images were evaluated including measurements of the radius from the humeral head center to the skin (HS), deltoid radius-to-humeral head radius ratio (DHR), deltoid size, and subcutaneous tissue size. Different correlation coefficients were used to analyze various types of relationships, and the strength of these associations was classified based on predefined boundaries. Subsequently, multivariable linear and logistic regressions were performed to determine whether HS, DHR, deltoid size, and subcutaneous tissue size could predict LOS, operative time, or infection while controlling for patient factors.

RESULTS

HS was the most influential factor in predicting both operative time and LOS after RSA, with strong associations indicated by standardized β coefficients of 0.234 for operative time and 0.432 for LOS. Subcutaneous tissue size, deltoid size, and DHR also showed stronger predictive values than BMI for both outcomes. In terms of prosthetic joint infection, HS, deltoid size, and DHR were significant predictors, with HS demonstrating the highest predictive power (Nagelkerke R2 = 0.44), whereas BMI did not show a statistically significant association with infection. Low event counts resulted in wide confidence intervals for odds ratios in the infection analysis.

CONCLUSION

Greater shoulder soft-tissue thickness as measured with concentric circles on radiographs is a strong predictor of operative time, LOS, and postoperative infection in elective primary RSA patients.

Outcomes and Complications of Revision Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty Following Failed Primary Anatomical Shoulder Arthroplasty or Hemiarthroplasty: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study is to systematically review the evidence in the literature to ascertain the functional outcomes, range of motion (ROM) and complication and reoperation rates following revision reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) for a failed primary total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) or hemiarthroplasty (HA).

METHODS

Two independent reviewers performed the literature search based on PRISMA guidelines, utilizing the EMBASE, MEDLINE, and The Cochrane Library Databases. Studies were included if they reported clinical outcomes for revision RSA for a failed primary TSA or HA.

RESULTS

Our review found 23 studies including 1,041 shoulders (627 TSA, 414 HA) meeting our inclusion criteria. The majority of patients were female (66.1%), with an average age of 69.0 years (range 39-93) with a mean follow-up of 46.3 months. ASES and VAS pain scores improved from 32.6 to 61.9 and 6.7 to 2.7, respectively. ROM results including forward flexion, abduction and external rotation that improved from 59.4° to 107.7°, 50.7° to 104.4°, and 19.8° to 26.3° respectively. Only one out of the ten studies reporting internal rotation found a statistically significant difference with mean internal rotation improving from S1-S3 preoperatively to L4-L5 postoperatively for patients undergoing HA. The overall complication rate and reoperation rate were 23.4% and 12.5% respectively. The most common complications were glenoid component loosening (6.0%), fracture (periprosthetic, intraoperative, or other scapula fractures) (n=4.7%), and infection (n=3.3%).

CONCLUSION

Revision RSA for a failed primary TSA and HA has been shown to result in excellent functional outcomes and improved ROM suggesting patients who have failed TSA or HA may benefit from a revision RSA.

Posterior Shoulder Instability Part I - Diagnosis, Non-Operative Management, and Labral Repair for Posterior Shoulder Instability - An International Expert Delphi Consensus Statement

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to establish consensus statements on the diagnosis, non-operative management, and labral repair for posterior shoulder instability.

METHODS

A consensus process on the treatment of posterior shoulder instability was conducted, with 71 shoulder/sports surgeons from 12 countries participating based on their level of expertise in the field. Experts were assigned to one of 6 working groups defined by specific subtopics within posterior shoulder instability. Consensus was defined as achieving 80-89% agreement, whereas strong consensus was defined as 90-99% agreement, and unanimous consensus was indicated by 100% agreement with a proposed statement.

RESULTS

Unanimous agreement was reached on the indications for non-operative management and labral repair which include whether patients had primary or recurrent instability, with symptoms/functional limitations, and whether there was other underlying pathology, or patient's preference to avoid or delay surgery. Additionally, there was unanimous agreement that recurrence rates can be diminished by attention to detail, appropriate indication and assessment of risk factors, recognition of abnormalities in glenohumeral morphology, careful capsulolabral debridement and reattachment, small anchors with inferior placement and multiple fixation points that create a bumper with the labrum, treatment of concomitant pathologies, and a well-defined rehabilitation protocol with strict postoperative immobilization.

CONCLUSION

The study group achieved strong or unanimous consensus on 63% of statements related to the diagnosis, nonoperative treatment, and labrum repair for posterior shoulder instability. The statements that achieved unanimous consensus were the relative indications for non-operative management, and the relative indications for labral repair, as well as the steps to minimize complications for labral repair. There was no consensus on whether an arthrogram is needed when performing advanced imaging, the role of corticosteroids/orthobiologics in non-operative management, whether a poster-inferior portal is required.

Posterior Shoulder Instability Part II - Glenoid Bone-Grafting, Glenoid Osteotomy, and Rehabilitation/Return to Play - An International Expert Delphi Consensus Statement

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to establish consensus statements on glenoid bone-grafting, glenoid osteotomy, rehabilitation, return to play, and follow-up for posterior shoulder instability.

METHODS

A consensus process on the treatment of posterior shoulder instability was conducted, with 71 shoulder/sports surgeons from 12 countries participating based on their level of expertise in the field. Experts were assigned to one of 6 working groups defined by specific subtopics within posterior shoulder instability. Consensus was defined as achieving 80-89% agreement, whereas strong consensus was defined as 90-99% agreement, and unanimous consensus was indicated by 100% agreement with a proposed statement.

RESULTS

All of the statements relating to rehabilitation, return to play, and follow-up achieved consensus. There was unanimous consensus that the following criteria should be considered: restoration of strength, range of motion, proprioception, and sport-specific skills, with a lack of symptoms. There is no minimum time point required to return to play. Collision athletes and military athletes may take longer to return because of their higher risk for recurrent instability, and more caution should be exercised in clearing them to return to play, with elite athletes potentially having different considerations in returning to play. The relative indications for revision surgery are symptomatic apprehension, multiple recurrent instability episodes, further intra-articular pathologies, hardware failure, and pain.

CONCLUSION

The study group achieved strong or unanimous consensus on 59% of statements. Unanimous consensus was reached regarding the criteria for return to play, collision/elite athletes having different considerations in return to play, indications for revision surgery, and imaging only required as routine for those with glenoid bone-grafting/osteotomies at subsequent follow-ups. There was no consensus on optimal fixation method for a glenoid bone-block, the relative indications for glenoid osteotomy, whether fluoroscopy is required or if the labrum should be concomitantly repaired.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level V Expert Opinion.

Shoulder Instability-Return to Sports After Injury (SIRSI) Scale Shows That Lack of Psychological Readiness Predicts Outcomes and Recurrence Following Surgical Stabilization

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate the predictive ability of psychological readiness to return to sports on clinical outcomes and recurrences in athletes who return to sports following shoulder instability surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed of patients who underwent shoulder instability surgery between September 2020 and October 2021 (arthroscopic Bankart repair or Latarjet procedure) with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. Patients were grouped according to the achievement of psychological readiness to return to play using the SIRSI scale (≥ 55 points) measured at 6 months following surgery. Recurrences were measured and functional outcomes were evaluated by the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Rowe, and Athletic Shoulder Outcome Scoring System (ASOSS). The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for the VAS and Rowe scores was calculated using the distribution-based method of ½ standard deviation of the delta (difference between postoperative and preoperative scores). The patient acceptable symptomatic state (PASS) for the VAS scale was set at 2.5 based on previous literature. To evaluate the predictive ability of SIRSI a regression model analysis and a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were used.

RESULTS

A total of 108 who achieved psychological readiness (PSR) and 41 who did not (NPSR) met the study criteria. PSR achieved significantly higher percentages of MCID and PASS thresholds for VAS than NPSR (MCID: 68.5% vs 48.7%, p=0.026; PASS: 92.5% vs 58.5%, p<0.001). However, there were no differences in the percentage of patients achieving MCID for the Rowe score between groups (98.1% vs 100%, p=0.999). The only strongest independent predictor of postoperative outcomes was being psychologically ready to return to sports. The SIRSI scale had an excellent predictive ability for recurrences (area under curve 0.745, 95% CI 0.5-0.8). Of those who sustained a recurrence, 20% were not psychologically ready compared to 4.3% who were (p= 0.002). A power analysis was not conducted for this study.

CONCLUSION

The SIRSI scale is associated with postoperative clinical outcomes and recurrences in patients who returned to sports following shoulder instability surgery. Patients who were not psychologically ready following shoulder instability surgery had worse clinical outcomes with fewer patients achieving clinically significant outcomes (PASS and MCID) for pain, and a higher risk of recurrence.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, Retrospective cohort study.

Clinical Outcomes in Prospective versus Retrospective Studies on Arthroscopic Bankart Repair: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

The majority of the current literature on arthroscopic Bankart repair is retrospective and discrepancies exist regarding clinical outcomes including recurrent instability and return to play amongst studies of different levels of evidence.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to perform a systematic review of the literature to compare the outcomes of prospective and retrospective studies on arthroscopic Bankart repair.

METHODS

A search was performed using the PubMed/Medline database for all studies that reported clinical outcomes on Bankart repair for anterior shoulder instability. The search term "Bankart repair" with all results being analyzed via strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Three independent investigators extracted data and scored each included study based on the 10 criteria of the Modified Coleman Methodology Score (CMS) out of 100. A chi-square test was performed to assess if recurrent instability, revision, return to play, and complications are independent of prospective and retrospective studies.

RESULTS

One hundred ninety-three studies were included in the analysis with 53 prospective studies and 140 retrospective in design. Encompassing a total of 13,979 patients and 14,019 surgical procedures for Bankart repair for shoulder instability. The rate of re-dislocation in the prospective studies was 8.0% vs. 5.9% in retrospective (p < 0.001). The rate of recurrent subluxation in the prospective studies was 3.4% vs. 2.4% in retrospective (p = 0.004). The rate of revision was higher in retrospective studies at 4.9% vs. 3.9% in prospective studies (p = 0.013) There was no significant difference in terms of overall rate to return to play in prospective and retrospective studies was 90% and 91%, respectively (p=0.548). The overall rate of complications in the prospective cohort was 0.27% and 0.78% in the retrospective studies (p = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

The overall rates of recurrent dislocations, subluxations are higher in prospective studies compared to retrospective studies. However, rates of revision were reportedly higher in retrospective studies. Complications after arthroscopic Bankart repair are rare in both prospective and retrospective studies, and there was no difference in rates of return to play.

Latarjet for Anterior Shoulder Instability Literature Shows Limited Reporting of Outcomes in Females: Females Show Similar Outcomes but Higher Rate of Emergency Room Visits and Possible Higher Rates of Complications

It has been reported that use of the Latarjet procedure for anterior shoulder instability from 2008-2019 increased 250%. With the rise in utilization, it is imperative to minimize complications. At present, the majority of the literature focuses on male patients, with scant evidence regarding female patients. Outcomes are similar comparing female to male patients, but female patients have higher emergency department postoperative visits than males, requiring specific attention during the post-operative period. In addition, literature reporting complications in females versus males after Latarjet are conflicting; some studies show similar rates of complications, while other studies show higher rates of adverse events in females. Prior consensus statements recommended a) careful dissection; b) identifying the musculocutaneous and axillary nerves; c) preventing overlateralization of the graft; d) tranexamic acid to reduce blood loss; e) accurate screw placement; and f) careful preparation of the glenoid neck and coracoid to reduce rates of non-union or delayed union.

European Society for Surgery of the Shoulder and Elbow (SECEC) rotator cuff tear registry Delphi consensus

Background

The purpose of this study was to establish consensus statements via a Delphi process on the factors that should be included in a registry for those patients undergoing rotator cuff tear treatment.

Methods

A consensus process on the treatment of rotator cuff utilizing a modified Delphi technique was conducted. Fifty-seven surgeons completed these consensus statements and 9 surgeons declined. The participants were members of the European Society for Surgery of the Shoulder and Elbow committees representing 23 European countries. Thirteen questions were generated regarding the diagnosis and follow-up of rotator cuff tears were distributed, with 3 rounds of questionnaires and final voting occurring. Consensus was defined as achieving 80%-89% agreement, whereas strong consensus was defined as 90%-99% agreement, and unanimous consensus was defined by 100% agreement with a proposed statement.

Results

Of the 13 total questions and consensus statements on rotator cuff tears, 1 achieved unanimous consensus, 6 achieved strong consensus, 5 achieved consensus, and 1 did not achieve consensus. The statement that reached unanimous consensus was that the factors in the patient history that should be evaluated and recorded in the setting of suspected/known rotator cuff tear are age, gender, comorbidities, smoking, traumatic etiology, prior treatment including physical therapy/injections, pain, sleep disturbance, sports, occupation, workmen's compensation, hand dominance, and functional limitations. The statement that did not achieve consensus was related to the role of ultrasound in the initial diagnosis of patients with rotator cuff tears.

Conclusion

Nearly all questions reached consensus among 57 European Society for Surgery of the Shoulder and Elbow members representing 23 different European countries. We encourage surgeons to use this minimum set of variables to establish rotator cuff registries and multicenter studies. By adapting and using compatible variables, data can more easily be compared and eventually merged across countries.

Clinical Significance Thresholds in Primary and Revision Latarjet Procedures With Comparable Outcome Achievements

BACKGROUND

Given the variability across populations and settings, defining the MCID and the PASS for the Rowe and ASOSS scores and patients undergoing primary and revision Latarjet it is essential to have accurate benchmarks relevant to these groups when interpreting clinical results.

PURPOSE

To determine the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and Patient Acceptable Symptom State (PASS) thresholds for the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain during sports, Athletic Shoulder Outcome Scoring System (ASOSS), and Rowe scores after primary and revision Latarjet procedures for treatment of shoulder instability.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

Between January 2018 and January 2020, a retrospective review of 149 patients undergoing primary Latarjet (n = 82) and revision Latarjet (n = 67) to treat shoulder instability was performed in a single institution. Patient-reported outcome measures were collected preoperatively and 1 year postoperatively. The delta was defined as the change between the pre- and postoperative scores. Distribution-based and anchored-based approaches were used to estimate the MCID and the PASS, respectively. The optimal cutoff point and the percentage of patients achieving those thresholds were also calculated.

RESULTS

The distribution-based MCIDs after primary Latarjet were 1.1, 7.5, and 9.6 for the VAS, Rowe, and ASOSS scores, respectively. The rates of patients who achieved the MCID thresholds were 93.9%, 98.7%, and 100% for the VAS, Rowe, and ASOSS scores, respectively. The PASS thresholds after primary Latarjet were ≤1, ≥90, and ≥85 for the VAS, Rowe, and ASOSS scores, respectively. The percentages of patients who achieved PASS thresholds were 82.9%, 89%, and 86.5% for the VAS, Rowe, and ASOSS scores, respectively. The distribution-based MCIDs after revision Latarjet were 0.6, 6.2, and 3.4 for the VAS, Rowe, and ASOSS scores, respectively. The rates of patients who achieved MCID thresholds were 89.3%, 100%, and 100% for the VAS, Rowe, and ASOSS scores, respectively. The PASS thresholds were ≤3, ≥87, and ≥86 after revision Latarjet for the VAS, Rowe, and ASOSS scores, respectively. The rates of patients who achieved the PASS thresholds were 88%, 88%, and 91% for the VAS, Rowe, and ASOSS, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study identified useful values for the MCID and PASS thresholds in VAS, Rowe, and ASOSS scores after primary and revision Latarjet procedures for treating shoulder instability. Most patients achieved MCID and PASS benchmarks, indicating successful primary and revision Latarjet procedure outcomes. These metrics can serve as valuable parameters when analyzing parameters in future studies and have the potential to enhance patient care by optimizing treatment strategies and surgical decision making.

Outcomes After Revision Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) is one of the most commonly performed orthopaedic procedures; however, it is unclear how to manage patients with symptomatic retears.

PURPOSE

To perform a systematic review to evaluate the outcomes of revision ARCR in the literature.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

A systematic literature search based on PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines was performed utilizing the Embase, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Library databases. Eligible for inclusion were clinical studies reporting on revision rotator cuff repair. Clinical outcomes were recorded.

RESULTS

The 17 included studies were composed of 888 shoulders in 885 patients. The mean age of the 885 patients was 58.6 ± 9.1 years, with a mean follow-up of 28.1 ± 22.1 months. The mean visual analog scale score was 2.1 ± 1.8, the mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score was 75.0 ± 18.3, and the mean Constant score was 67.4 ± 16.6. The overall rate of retears after revision was 25.3%, with an 8.0% reoperation rate including 2.7% undergoing reverse shoulder arthroplasty and 2.0% undergoing subsequent rotator cuff repair. Finally, the complication rate was 8.6%.

CONCLUSION

Revision ARCR improved patient-reported outcomes, with 92% of patients free from reoperations at a mean follow-up of 2 years. Overall, 78.4% of patients were satisfied at final follow-up; however, the rate of retears was found to be higher than after primary ARCR.

Glenohumeral morphological predictors of recurrent shoulder instability following arthroscopic Bankart repair

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate glenohumeral morphological features on a magnetic resonance arthrogram (MRA) to determine risk factors for recurrence of anterior shoulder instability following arthroscopic Bankart repair (ABR).

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients who underwent ABR between 2012 and 2017 was performed to identify patients who had recurrence of instability following stabilisation (Group 1). These were pair-matched in a 2:1 ratio for age, gender and sport with a control (Group 2) who underwent ABR without recurrence. Preoperative MRAs were evaluated for risk factors for recurrence, with glenoid bone loss and Hill-Sachs lesions also measured. Multilinear and multilogistic regression models were used to evaluate factors affecting recurrence.

RESULTS

Overall, 72 patients were included in this study, including 48 patients without recurrence and 24 patients with recurrent instability. There was a significant difference between the two groups in mean glenoid bone loss (Group 1: 7.3% vs. Group 2: 5.7%, p < 0.0001) and the rate of off-track Hill-Sachs lesions (Group 1: 20.8% vs. Group 2: 0%, p = 0.0003). Of the variables analysed in logistic regression, increased glenoid anteversion (p = 0.02), acromioclavicular (AC) degeneration (p = 0.03) and increased Hill-Sachs width were associated with increased risk of failure. Increased chondral version (p = 0.01) and humeral head diameter in the anteriorposterior view were found to be protective and associated with a greater likelihood of success.

CONCLUSION

Glenoid anteversion was a risk factor for recurrent instability, whereas increased chondral version and humeral head diameter were associated with higher rates of success following ABR. Glenoid bone loss, presence of an off-track Hill-Sachs lesion, increased Hill-Sachs width and AC degeneration were also associated with failure. These findings should be used by surgeons to stratify risk for recurrence following ABR.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Young Collision Athletes Have High Rate of Return to Play and Good Clinical Outcomes Following Open Latarjet Procedure

PURPOSE

To evaluate return to play (RTP), clinical outcomes, and recurrence rates in collision athletes 20 years of age and younger who underwent open Latarjet for anterior shoulder instability.

METHODS

A retrospective review of collision athletes 20 years of age and younger, who underwent an open Latarjet procedure by a single surgeon between the years of 2010-2020 was carried out. Inclusion criteria were 1) collision athlete, 2) underwent open Latarjet procedure, 3) 16-20 years old, and 4) minimum 24-month follow-up. Exclusion criteria were 1) other pathology of the ipsilateral shoulder and 2) noncollision athlete. Rate of RTP, time to RTP, rate of return to preinjury level, the Shoulder Instability Return to Sport after Injury score (SIRSI) score, Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, and recurrence events were recorded. Quantitative statistical analysis was carried out.

RESULTS

The study included 105 male collision athletes with a mean age of 18.6 ± 1.0 years (range: 17-20). The mean follow-up for patients was 36 ± 26.2 months. A total of 93 (88.6%) RTP at a mean time of 6.3 ± 2.2 months, with 73 (69.5%) returning to their preinjury level of participation. The mean SIRSI score was 69.2 ± 21.8, the mean VAS score was 2.3 ± 2.1, and the mean SSV score was 84.1 ± 16.8. Five patients (4.8%) redislocated their shoulder, with 4 of these requiring a further surgery (3.8%). Two patients (1.9%) reported incidents of subluxation.

CONCLUSIONS

The open Latarjet procedure in young collision athletes results in high rates of RTP, excellent functional outcomes and low recurrence rates at mid-term follow-up. Additionally, complication rates are low in this cohort.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, case series.

Establishing the Minimal Clinically Important Difference and Patient Acceptable Symptom State Thresholds Following Arthroscopic Capsular Release for the Treatment of Idiopathic Shoulder Adhesive Capsulitis

PURPOSE

To determine the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and the patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) threshold for the visual analog scale (VAS), Constant, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores following arthroscopic capsular release for the treatment of idiopathic shoulder adhesive capsulitis.

METHODS

A retrospective review of prospective collected data was performed in patients undergoing arthroscopic capsular release for the treatment of idiopathic adhesive capsulitis at a single institution from January 2018 through January 2019. Patient-reported outcome measures were collected preoperatively and 6 months' postoperatively. Delta was defined as the change between preoperative and 6 months' postoperative scores. Distribution-based and anchored-based (response to a satisfaction question at 1 year) approaches were used to estimate MCIDs and PASS, respectively. The optimal cut-off point where sensitivity and specificity were maximized (Youden index) and the percentage of patients achieving those thresholds were also calculated.

RESULTS

Overall, a total of 100 patients without diabetes who underwent arthroscopic capsular release and completed baseline and 6-month patient-reported outcome measures were included. The distribution-based MCID for VAS, Constant, SANE, and ASES were calculated to be 1.1, 10.1, 9.3, and 8.2, respectively. The rate of patients who achieved MCID thresholds was 98% for VAS, 96% for Constant, 98% for SANE, and 99% for ASES. The PASS threshold values for VAS, Constant, and ASES were ≤2, ≥70, ≥80, and ≥80, respectively. The rate of patients who achieved PASS thresholds was 84% for VAS, 84% for Constant, 89% for SANE, and 78% for ASES.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients without diabetes and idiopathic adhesive capsulitis, high rates of MCID and PASS thresholds can be achieved with arthroscopic anteroinferior capsular release LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, retrospective cohort study.

Low complication rate following reverse total shoulder arthroplasty at 90-days follow-up - A systematic review

IMPORTANCE

As reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) has become an increasingly common procedure, rates of post-operative complications leading to potential hospital readmission are of greater importance. No previous systematic reviews have focused exclusively on post-operative complications and mortality rates at 90 days post RTSA.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to review complication, readmission, and mortality rates within 90 days post RTSA.

EVIDENCE REVIEW

Two independent reviewers performed a literature search using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines using PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases. Only studies reporting on outcomes of RTSA at 90-days follow-up specifically were considered for inclusion.

FINDINGS

Our search included 79,037 shoulders (62.1 ​% female) from a total of 15 studies with an average age of 72.4 ​± ​5.8 years. The overall 90-day re-admission rates were reported in nine studies as 6.1 ​% (4205/69,127) following RTSA. Additionally, a total of five studies reported the overall 90-day mortality rate as 1.1 ​% (19/1733). The overall pooled rate of medical complications was 3.9 ​% (2998/77,826) as reported in 13 studies, at 90-days post-RTSA, with the occurrence of anaemia being the most commonly reported outcomes as 2.9 ​% (1013/34,385) in six studies. The overall rate of surgical complications was 1.1 ​% reported in 13 studies (1327/77,826), with the pooled rate of surgical revisions of 1.5 ​% (607/40,563) at 90-days follow-up. A total of 8, 5, and 3 studies reported rates of dislocation, requirement for closed reduction and glenoid loosening as 0.9 ​% (344/37,995), 0.6 ​% (7/1180), and 0.3 ​% (30/9115) respectively at 90-days following RTSA.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

This study established that the overall rates of mortality and medical and surgical complications are low in the short-term following RTSA, with only 6 ​% of patients requiring re-admission in the first 90 days.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV - Systematic Review of all levels of evidence.

Return to Play After Surgical Treatment for Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocation is a common clinical problem among young and athletic populations. Surgical management is widely used for high-grade dislocations (Rockwood III-VI) and in high-demand athletes at high risk of recurrence.

PURPOSE

To systematically review the evidence in the literature to ascertain the rate and timing of return to play (RTP) and the availability of specific criteria for safe RTP after surgical treatment for AC joint dislocation.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

A systematic literature search based on the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines was conducted in the PubMed database. Clinical studies were eligible for inclusion if they reported on RTP after surgical treatment for AC joint dislocation. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS.

RESULTS

We found 120 studies including 4327 cases meeting our inclusion criteria. The majority of patients were male (80.2%), with a mean age of 37.2 years (range, 15-85) and a mean follow-up of 34.5 months. Most were recreational athletes (79%), and the most common sport was cycling. The overall rate of RTP was 91.5%, with 85.6% returning to the same level of play. Among collision athletes, the rate of RTP was 97.3%, with 97.2% returning to the same level of play. In overhead athletes, the rate of RTP was 97.1%, with 79.2% returning to the same level of play. The mean time to RTP was 5.7 months (range, 1.5-15). Specific RTP criteria were reported in the majority of the studies (83.3%); time to return to play was the most commonly reported item (83.3%). Type III Rockwood injuries had the highest RTP rate at 98.7% and the earliest RTP at 4.9 months. Among the different surgical techniques, Kirschner wire fixation had the highest rate of RTP at 98.5%, while isolated graft reconstruction had the earliest RTP at 3.6 months.

CONCLUSION

The overall rate of RTP was reportedly high after surgical treatment for AC joint dislocation, with the majority of patients returning to their preinjury levels of sport. There is a lack of consensus in the literature for what constitutes a safe RTP, with further focus on this topic required in future studies.

Association between sleep dysfunction and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System scores in patients with rotator cuff tears

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to utilize Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) sleep scores to determine the prevalence of sleep dysfunction and its association with other PROMIS scores in patients with rotator cuff tears (RCT).

METHODS

Patients were retrospectively identified using the International Classification of Diseases-10 codes for RCT pathology, and PROMIS outcomes were assessed at multiple visits between November 2017 and February 2020. Generalized linear mixed effects models were fitted with PROMIS sleep score as the predictor variable and other PROMIS scores as the response variable. Additionally, models were fit using a clinically significant dichotomization of PROMIS sleep scores to assess differences in average PROMIS scores.

RESULTS

The study cohort included 481 patients, 201 (41.8 ​%) of whom had disrupted sleep at first visit. A higher percentage of those with disrupted sleep at first visit were female, nonwhite, and not married compared to those with normal sleep. PROMIS scores at first visit differed by sleep category. Higher PROMIS sleep scores were associated with higher anxiety, depression, fatigue, pain intensity, and pain interference scores and lower physical function, social participation, and upper extremity scores. Relationships were similar when dichotomous PROMIS sleep scores were considered.

CONCLUSION

There was a high prevalence of sleep dysfunction in patients with RCT. Sleep disturbance is associated with increased anxiety, depression, fatigue, pain intensity, pain interference and decreased physical function, social participation, and upper extremity function in patients with RCTs.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III

Retrospective Cohort Study.

Type V Superior-Labrum Anterior-Posterior (SLAP) Repair - A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study is to systematically review the evidence in the literature to ascertain the functional outcomes, recurrence rates, and subsequent revision rates following type V superior labrum anterior-posterior (SLAP) repair.

METHODS

Two independent reviewers performed a literature search based on PRISMA guidelines, utilizing the EMBASE, MEDLINE, and The Cochrane Library Databases. Studies were included if they had clinical outcomes on the patients undergoing type V SLAP repair. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (IBM, Armonk, NY, USA). A P value of < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

RESULTS

Our review found 13 studies, including 451 shoulders meeting our inclusion criteria. The majority of patients were male (89.3%), with an average age of 25.9 years (range 15-58) and a mean follow-up of 53.8 months. The Rowe score was the most utilized functional outcome score, with a weighted mean of 88.5. Additionally, the mean Constant score was 91.0, the mean ASES score was 88.3, the mean SSV score was 85.5%, and the mean VAS pain score was 1.2. The overall rate of return to play was 84.8%, with 80.2% returning to the same level of play. The overall reoperation rate was 6.1%, with a recurrent dislocation rate of 8.2%. In the studies comparing type V SLAP and isolated Bankart repair, there were statistically insignificant differences in VAS pain scores (MD; 0.15, 95% CI, -0.13 to 0.44, I2 = 0%, p = 0.29) and recurrence rates (RR; 1.38, 95% CI, 0.88 to 2.15, I2 = 0%, p = 0.16).

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic repair of type V SLAP tears results in excellent functional outcomes, with high return to play rates in athletes. There are low rates of reoperations and recurrent dislocations. Additionally, in comparison to an isolated Bankart repair, SLAP repair does not increase recurrence rates or postoperative pain.

Editorial Commentary: At Present, ChatGPT Cannot Be Relied Upon to Answer Patient Questions and Requires Physician Expertise to Interpret Answers for Patients

ChatGPT is designed to provide accurate and reliable information to the best of its abilities based on the data input and knowledge available. Thus, ChatGPT is being studied as a patient information tool. This artificial intelligence (AI) tool has been shown to frequently provide technically correct information but with limitations. ChatGPT provides different answers to similar questions based on the prompts, and patients may not have expertise in prompting ChatGPT to elicit a best answer. (Prompting large language models has been shown to be a skill that can improve.) Of greater concern, ChatGPT fails to provide sources or references for its answers. At present, ChatGPT cannot be relied upon to address patient questions; in the future, ChatGPT will improve. Today, AI requires physician expertise to interpret AI answers for patients.

Evaluation High-Quality of Information from ChatGPT (Artificial Intelligence-Large Language Model) Artificial Intelligence on Shoulder Stabilization Surgery

PURPOSE

To analyze the quality and readability of information regarding shoulder stabilization surgery available using an online AI software (ChatGPT), using standardized scoring systems, as well as to report on the given answers by the AI.

METHODS

An open AI model (ChatGPT) was used to answer 23 commonly asked questions from patients on shoulder stabilization surgery. These answers were evaluated for medical accuracy, quality, and readability using The JAMA Benchmark criteria, DISCERN score, Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease Score (FRES) & Grade Level (FKGL).

RESULTS

The JAMA Benchmark criteria score was 0, which is the lowest score, indicating no reliable resources cited. The DISCERN score was 60, which is considered a good score. The areas that open AI model did not achieve full marks were also related to the lack of available source material used to compile the answers, and finally some shortcomings with information not fully supported by the literature. The FRES was 26.2, and the FKGL was considered to be that of a college graduate.

CONCLUSIONS

There was generally high quality in the answers given on questions relating to shoulder stabilization surgery, but there was a high reading level required to comprehend the information presented. However, it is unclear where the answers came from with no source material cited. It is important to note that the ChatGPT software repeatedly references the need to discuss these questions with an orthopaedic surgeon and the importance of shared discussion making, as well as compliance with surgeon treatment recommendations.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

As shoulder instability is an injury that predominantly affects younger individuals who may use the Internet for information, this study shows what information patients may be getting online.

Acellular Collagen Matrix Patch Augmentation of Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair Reduces Re-Tear Rates: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Control Trials

PURPOSE

To perform a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to compare the outcomes of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) with and without acellular collagen matrix patch (ACMP) augmentation.

METHODS

A literature search of 3 databases was performed based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. RCTs comparing ACMP augmentation and a control for ARCR were included. Clinical outcomes were compared using Revman, and a P value < .05 was considered to be statistically significant.

RESULTS

Five RCTs with 307 patients were included. Overall, 11% of patients treated with ACMP augmentation and 34% of patients in the control group had a re-tear (P = .0006). The mean Constant score was 90.1 with ACMP augmentation, and 87.3 in controls (P = .02). Additionally, there was a significant higher American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score with ACMP augmentation (87.7 vs 82.1, P = .01).

CONCLUSIONS

The RCTs in the literature support the use of ACMP augment as a modality to reduce re-tear rates and improve outcomes after ARCR.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II, Meta-Analysis of Level II Studies meta-analysis of Level II studies.

Studies on Bankart Repair for Anterior Shoulder Instability Show Poor Reporting of Data and Reflect Low Level of Evidence: A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

To assess the quality and level of evidence of studies reporting on Bankart repair for anterior shoulder instability.

METHODS

A search was performed using the PubMed/Medline database for all studies that reported clinical outcomes on Bankart repair for anterior shoulder instability. The search term "Bankart repair" with all results were analyzed via strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Two independent investigators scored each included study based on the 10 criteria of the Modified Coleman Methodology Score (CMS) out of 100 and gave each study a score out of 25 based on the Anterior Shoulder Instability (ASI) Methodology criteria.

RESULTS

Two hundred sixty-six studies were included in the analysis and encompassed a total of 19,156 patients and 19,317 surgical procedures for Bankart repair for shoulder instability. Overall, 81.6% of studies were Level III or IV evidence. The mean CMS score for the studies was 55.3 out of 100, and the mean ASI Methodology score for the studies was 12.1 out of 25. Weaknesses in the studies were identified in sample size, description of preoperative investigations and diagnoses, reporting of mean glenoid bone loss, nonsubjective clinical outcome reporting, and description of associated pathologies.

CONCLUSIONS

A large proportion of studies reporting the clinical outcomes of Bankart repair for anterior shoulder instability are of low methodological quality and have a low level of evidence.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

This study emphasizes need for greater reporting of many variables such as body mass index, mean glenoid bone loss, and patient-reported outcomes and provides a framework for future studies reporting.

Artificial Intelligence in Shoulder and Elbow Surgery: Overview of Current and Future Applications

Artificial intelligence (AI) is amongst the most rapidly growing technologies in orthopedic surgery. With the exponential growth in healthcare data, computing power, and complex predictive algorithms, this technology is poised to aid providers in data processing and clinical decision support throughout the continuum of orthopedic care. Understanding the utility and limitations of this technology is vital to practicing orthopedic surgeons, as these applications will become more common place in everyday practice. AI has already demonstrated its utility in shoulder and elbow surgery for imaging-based diagnosis, predictive modelling of clinical outcomes, implant identification, and automated image segmentation. The future integration of AI and robotic surgery represents the largest potential application of AI in shoulder and elbow surgery with the potential for significant clinical and financial impact. This editorial's purpose is to summarize common AI terms, provide a framework to understand and interpret AI model results, and discuss current applications and future directions within shoulder and elbow surgery.

Bone Marrow Stimulation for Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

Bone marrow stimulation (BMS) has been proposed to augment healing at the time of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) by creating several bone marrow vents in the footprint of the rotator cuff, allowing mesenchymal stem cells, platelets, and growth factors to cover the area as a "crimson duvet."

PURPOSE

To perform a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to compare the outcomes after BMS and a control for those undergoing ARCR.

STUDY DESIGN

Meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 1.

METHODS

A literature search of 3 databases was performed based on the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. RCTs comparing BMS and a control for ARCR were included. Clinical outcomes were compared, and a P value <.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

RESULTS

A total of 7 RCTs with 576 patients were included. Overall, 18.8% of patients treated with BMS and 21.0% of patients treated with a control had a retear (I2 = 43%; P = .61). With BMS, the mean Constant score was 88.2, and with the control, the mean Constant score was 86.7 (P = .12). Additionally, there was no significant difference in the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (94.3 vs 93.2, respectively; P = .31) or visual analog scale score (0.9 vs 0.9, respectively; P = .89).

CONCLUSION

The level 1 evidence in the literature did not support BMS as a modality to improve retear rates or clinical outcomes after ARCR.

Experts Achieve Consensus on a Majority of Statements Regarding Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatments for Treatment of Musculoskeletal Pathology

PURPOSE

To establish consensus statements on platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for the treatment of musculoskeletal pathologies.

METHODS

A consensus process on the treatment of PRP using a modified Delphi technique was conducted. Thirty-five orthopaedic surgeons and sports medicine physicians participated in these consensus statements on PRP. The participants were composed of representatives of the Biologic Association, representing 9 international orthopaedic and musculoskeletal professional societies invited due to their active interest in the study of orthobiologics. Consensus was defined as achieving 80% to 89% agreement, strong consensus was defined as 90% to 99% agreement, and unanimous consensus was indicated by 100% agreement with a proposed statement.

RESULTS

There was consensus on 62% of statements about PRP.

CONCLUSIONS

(1) PRP should be classified based on platelet count, leukocyte count, red blood count, activation method, and pure-plasma versus fibrin matrix; (2) PRP characteristics for reporting in research studies are platelet count, leukocyte count, neutrophil count, red blood cell count, total volume, the volume of injection, delivery method, and the number of injections; (3) the prognostic factors for those undergoing PRP injections are age, body mass index, severity/grade of pathology, chronicity of pathology, prior injections and response, primary diagnosis (primary vs postsurgery vs post-trauma vs psoriatic), comorbidities, and smoking; (4) regarding age and body mass index, there is no minimum or maximum, but clinical judgment should be used at extremes of either; (5) the ideal dose of PRP is undetermined; and (6) the minimal volume required is unclear and may depend on the pathology.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level V, expert opinion.

Arthroscopic Bankart repair versus nonoperative management for first-time anterior shoulder instability: A cost-effectiveness analysis

Purpose

Arthroscopic Bankart repair (ABR) may be more effective than nonoperative management for patients with anterior shoulder instability following first-time dislocation. The purpose of the study was to determine the most cost-effective treatment strategy by evaluating the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) for ABR versus nonoperative treatment.

Methods

This cost-effectiveness study utilized a Markov decision chain and Monte Carlo simulation. Probabilities, health utility values, and outcome data regarding ABR and nonoperative management of first-time shoulder instability derived from level I/II evidence. Costs were tabulated from Centers for Medicaid & Medicare Services. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis was performed using >100,000 repetitions of the Monte Carlo simulation. A willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold was set at $50,000.

Results

The expected cost for operative management higher than nonoperative management ($32,765 vs $29,343). However, ABR (5.48 quality-adjusted life years (QALYs)) was the more effective treatment strategy compared to nonoperative management (4.61 QALYs). The ICER for ABR was $3943. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis showed that ABR was the most cost-effective strategy in 100% of simulations.

Discussion

ABR is more cost-effective than nonoperative management for first-time anterior shoulder dislocation. The threshold analysis demonstrated that when accounting for WTP, ABR was found to be the more cost-effective strategy.

Similar outcomes between biceps tenodesis and SLAP repair for SLAP tears in younger patients - A meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study is to systematically review the comparative studies in the literature to ascertain if biceps tenodesis or superior-labrum anterior to posterior (SLAP) repair results in superior clinical outcomes in the treatment of type II SLAP tears in patients under 40.

METHODS

A systematic search of articles in Pubmed, EMBASE and The Cochrane Library databases was carried out according to the PRISMA guidelines. Cohort studies comparing biceps tenodesis to repair in type II SLAP tears in patients under 40 were included. Clinical outcomes were extracted including return to play, reoperations, ASES, and VAS for pain. All statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager. A p-value of <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

RESULTS

Five studies were included. Biceps tenodesis resulted in comparable rates of return to play compared to SLAP repair (78.5% vs 67.7%, p ​= ​0.33), and there was no significant difference in return to play in overhead athletes (83.6% vs 74%, p ​= ​0.82). There was no significant difference in ASES score (87.2 vs 86.2, p ​= ​0.27) or VAS score for pain (1.8 vs 2.1, p ​= ​0.48). There was no significant difference in re-operation rates (2.9% vs 10.8%, p ​= ​0.22).

CONCLUSION

This study found that biceps tenodesis has no significant difference in rates of return to play in athletes, as well as in functional outcome scores and rates of revision surgery in younger patients compared to SLAP repair.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, Systematic review of Level III studies.

Return to play following operative management of anterior shoulder instability in overhead athletes-A systematic review

Background

The purpose of this study was to systematically review the rate and timing of return to play in overhead athletes following operative management of anterior shoulder instability.

Methods

A systematic literature search based on PRISMA guidelines, utilizing the EMBASE, MEDLINE, and The Cochrane Library Databases. Eligible for inclusion were clinical studies reporting on return to play among overhead athletes following arthroscopic Bankart repair, open Latarjet procedure or Remplissage procedure.

Results

There are 23 studies included with 961 patients. Among those undergoing arthroscopic Bankart repair, the rate of return to play was 86.2%, with 70.6% returning to the same level of play and the mean time to return to play was 7.1 months. Among those undergoing an open Latarjet procedure, the rate of return to play was 80.9%, with 77.7% returning to the same level of play and the mean time to return to play was 5.1 months. Among those undergoing a Remplissage procedure, the rate of return to play was 70.6%, with 70.0% returning to the same level of play or mean time to return to play.

Discussion

Overall, there were high rates of return to play following operative management of anterior shoulder instability in overhead athletes.

Midterm outcomes of primary reverse shoulder arthroplasty: a systematic review of studies with minimum 5-year follow-up

Background

Excellent short-term outcomes after reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) have been reported, but longer term outcomes in the existing literature are sparse and vary widely. The purpose of this study is to systematically assess the existing literature to quantify functional outcomes and complication rates after RSA at a minimum of five years of follow-up.

Methods

A Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses-compliant systematic literature search of the PubMed and Embase databases was undertaken. Studies reporting outcomes after primary RSA for nontrauma-related indications with a minimum of 5-year follow-up were included.

Results

Overall, 20 studies satisfied all inclusion criteria. This represented 1591 shoulders in 1556 patients (32.1% males), with a mean age of 70.2 ± 5.0 years and mean follow-up of 8.8 years, or 106.2 ± 30.1 months (60-243). At final follow-up, the mean reported Constant Murley score was 62.1 ± 5.0 (49.0-83.0). The mean adjusted Constant Murley score was 83.5 ± 12.5 (58-111.9). The mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score was 81.8 ± 4.6, while the mean subjective shoulder value was 74.6 ± 6.4. Overall, 88% of patients rated their satisfaction as either good or very good. The range of active forward flexion, abduction, external, and internal rotation were respectively, 126° ± 13°, 106° ± 11°, 22° ± 11°, and 6° ± 2°. The overall rate of revision surgery was 4.9% (0%-45.5%). Regarding complications, the rate of prosthetic joint infection was 4.3% (0%-26.7%), shoulder dislocation was 3.7% (0%-20.4%), and acromial fracture was 2.0% (0%-8.8%). At final follow-up, 30.9% of shoulders had some degree of scapular notching.

Conclusion

This systematic review shows that RSA results in high satisfaction rates, good clinical outcomes, as well as modest complication and revision rates at minimum 5-year follow-up.

Long-term outcomes of anterior shoulder instability treated with open latarjet procedure - a systematic review of outcomes at a minimum 15-year follow-up

Background

To systematically review the literature to evaluate the outcomes following an open Latarjet (OL) procedure at a minimum 15-year follow-up.

Methods

Two independent reviewers performed a literature search using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines using 3 databases. Only studies reporting outcomes of OL procedure with a minimum of 15 years of follow-up were included.

Results

Nine studies composed of 326 shoulders (78.2% males) in 313 patients were included (average age 26.9 ± 3.2 years (15-58)), with a mean follow-up of 271.9 ± 69.2 months (180-420) At a minimum 15-year follow-up, 93.5% (286 of 306) patients reported being satisfied with their OL procedure, whilst 86.8% (177 of 204) reported good/excellent outcomes at final follow-up. All nine of the included studies reported an overall rate of recurrent instability was 7.7%, with re-dislocations and subluxation at 3.4% and 5.8%, respectively. The rate of surgical revision was 5.15%; 3.5% of cases were revised for recurrent instability. Instability arthropathy was reported across all included studies as 41.0%.

Conclusion

The OL procedure results in satisfactory clinical outcomes, low rates of recurrent instability and surgical revision at a minimum 15-year follow-up. Although high levels of radiological instability arthropathy and residual pain are found over the same period, these appear stable from a minimum of 10-year follow-up data.

Level of Evidence

IV; a systematic review of all levels of evidence.

The association of pre-existing mental health conditions and patient outcomes after lower extremity orthopaedic trauma: a scoping review

INTRODUCTION

Existing research has established a correlation between post-traumatic mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression, and various aspects of recovery, such as pain exacerbations, reduced functional recovery, and lowered patient satisfaction. However, the influence of pre-existing mental health conditions on orthopaedic trauma outcomes has not been thoroughly investigated. The objective of this study was to systematically review literature addressing the association between pre-existing mental health conditions and patient outcomes following surgical interventions for lower extremity fractures in non-geriatric populations.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was conducted using Medline, Embase, and Scopus databases following PRISMA-ScR guidelines to select studies that examined lower extremity orthopaedic trauma outcomes in relation to pre-existing mental health conditions. Studies that evaluated patients with surgically treated lower extremity fractures and a history of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or mood disorders were included. Studies with a mean patient age above 65 years of age were excluded to focus on non-geriatric injury patterns.

RESULTS

The systematic review identified 12 studies investigating the relationship between surgical outcomes of orthopaedic lower extremity fractures and pre-existing mental health disorders in non-geriatric populations. Studies included patients with pelvis, femur, tibia, and ankle fractures. A majority (83%) of these studies demonstrated that patients with pre-existing mental health diagnoses had inferior functional outcomes, heightened pain levels, or an increase in postoperative complications.

DISCUSSION

The presence of pre-existing mental health conditions, particularly anxiety and depression, may predispose orthopaedic trauma patients to an elevated risk of suboptimal functional outcomes, increased pain, or complications after surgical intervention for lower extremity fractures. Future research should focus on interventions that mitigate the impact of mental health conditions on orthopaedic outcomes and patient wellness in this population.

Majority of Studies Show Similar Rates of Return to Play After Arthroscopic Bankart Repair or Latarjet Procedure: A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

To systematically review the current evidence in the literature to compare return to play following arthroscopic Bankart repair versus open Latarjet procedure for the treatment of anterior shoulder instability.

METHODS

A literature search was performed based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Comparative studies reporting return to play following arthroscopic Bankart repair versus open Latarjet procedure were included. Return to play was compared, with all statistical analysis performed using Review Manager, Version 5.3.

RESULTS

Nine studies with 1,242 patients (mean age: 15-30 years) were included. The rate of return to play was 61% to 94.1% among those undergoing arthroscopic Bankart repair and 72% to 96.8% in those undergoing an open Latarjet procedure. Two studies (Bessiere et al. and Zimmerman et al.) found a significant difference in favor of the Latarjet procedure (P < .05 for both, I2 = 37%). The rate of return to play at preinjury level was 9% to 83.8% among those undergoing arthroscopic Bankart repair and 19.4% to 80.6% in those undergoing an open Latarjet procedure, with no study finding a significant difference (P > .05 for all, I2 = 0%). The mean time of return to play was 5.4 to 7.3 months among those undergoing arthroscopic Bankart repair and 5.5 to 6.2 months in those undergoing an open Latarjet procedure, with no study finding a significant difference (P > .05 for all, I2 = 39%).

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the majority of studies showed no significant difference in rates of return to play or timing following arthroscopic Bankart repair or open Latarjet procedure. Furthermore, no study has found a significant difference in rate of return to play at pre-injury level, or rate of return to play among collision athletes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, systematic review of Level I-III studies.

Complications following arthroscopic Bankart repair: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Complications are rare after arthroscopic Bankart repair, and as a result, there is a lack of guidance over rates of complications that can be used to consent patients. The purpose of this study is to systematically review the literature to assess the complications after arthroscopic Bankart repair, other than recurrent instability.

METHODS

A literature search of MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library was performed based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Clinical studies reporting on the complications after arthroscopic Bankart repair were included.

RESULTS

A total of 194 studies were included in the analysis, with 13,979 patients and 14,019 shoulders undergoing arthroscopic Bankart repair. The overall complication rate was 0.67%, with frozen shoulder being the most common complication occurring in 0.32%. Persistent pain occurred in 0.17%. The rates of nerve, hardware, and wound complications were 0.07%, 0.05%, and 0.03%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The arthroscopic Bankart repair has a very low rate of complications. Frozen shoulder and persistent pain are the most frequently encountered complications.

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).

Radiographic comparison of eccentric stemmed vs. concentric stemless prosthetic humeral head positioning after anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty

INTRODUCTION

Maintaining premorbid proximal humeral positioning is an essential consideration of anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (aTSA), as malposition of the prosthetic humeral head can result in poor clinical outcomes. Stemless aTSA prosthetic heads are usually concentric, while stemmed aTSA prosthetic heads are typically eccentric in nature. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare the ability to restore native humeral head position between stemmed (eccentric) vs. stemless (concentric) aTSA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Postoperative anteroposterior radiographs of 52 stemmed and 46 stemless aTSAs were analyzed. A best-fit circle was created using previously published and validated techniques to represent the premorbid humeral head position and axis of rotation. This circle was juxtaposed with another circle following the arc of the implant head. Next, the offset in center of rotation (COR), radius of curvature (RoC), and humeral head height above the greater tuberosity (HHH) were measured. Additionally, based on prior studies, an offset of >3 mm at any point between the implant head surface and premorbid best-fit circle was considered significant and further classified as overstuffed or understuffed.

RESULTS

RoC deviation was significantly greater in the stemmed cohort than the stemless cohort (1.19 ± 1.37 mm vs. 0.65 ± 1.17 mm, P = .025). There was no statistically significant difference in deviation from premorbid humeral head between the stemmed and stemless cohorts for COR (3.20 ± 2.28 mm vs. 3.23 ± 2.09 mm, P = .800) or HHH (1.12 ± 3.27 mm vs. 0.92 ± 2.70 mm, P = .677). When comparing overstuffed implants to appropriately placed implants, there was a significant difference in overall COR deviation in stemmed implants (3.93 ± 2.51 mm vs. 1.92 ± 1.05 mm, P < .001). Superoinferior COR deviation (stemmed: 2.38 ± 3.01 mm vs. -0.61 ± 1.59 mm, P < .001; stemless: 2.70 ± 1.75 mm vs. -0.16 ± 1.87 mm, P < .001), mediolateral COR deviation (stemmed: 0.79 ± 2.65 mm vs. -0.62 ± 1.27 mm, P = .020; stemless: 0.40 ± 1.41 mm vs. -1.13 ± 1.96 mm, P = .020), and HHH (stemmed: 3.61 ± 2.73 mm vs. 0.50 ± 1.31 mm, P < .001; stemless: 3.98 ± 1.18 mm vs. 0.53 ± 1.41 mm, P < .001) were significantly different between overstuffed implants and appropriate implants in both the stemmed and stemless cohorts.

DISCUSSION

Stemless and stemmed aTSA implants have similar rates of reproducing satisfactory postoperative humeral head COR with both producing COR deviation most commonly in the superomedial direction. Deviation in HHH contributes to overstuffing in both stemmed and stemless implants, COR deviation contributes to overstuffing in stemmed implants, while RoC (humeral head size) is not associated with overstuffing. Based on this study, it appears that neither eccentric nor concentric prosthetic heads are superior in recreating premorbid humeral head position.

Establishing the Minimal Clinically Important Difference, Substantial Clinical Benefit, and Patient Acceptable Symptomatic State After Arthroscopic Posterior Labral Repair for Posterior Glenohumeral Instability

BACKGROUND

Posterior glenohumeral instability is an increasingly recognized cause of shoulder pain and dysfunction among young, active populations. Outcomes after posterior stabilization procedures are commonly assessed using patient-reported outcome measures including the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), the Rowe instability score, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, and the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain. The clinical significance thresholds for these measures after arthroscopic posterior labral repair (aPLR), however, remain undefined.

PURPOSE

We aimed to define the minimal clinically important difference (MCID), substantial clinical benefit (SCB), and patient acceptable symptomatic state (PASS) for the SANE, Rowe score, and ASES score as well as the VAS pain after aPLR. Additionally, we sought to determine preoperative factors predictive of reaching, as well as failing to reach, clinical significance.

STUDY DESIGN

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

This study was a retrospective analysis of patient-reported outcome scores collected from patients who underwent aPLR between January 2011 and December 2018. To determine the clinically significant threshold that corresponded to achieving a meaningful outcome, the MCID, SCB, and PASS were calculated for the SANE, Rowe score, ASES score, and VAS pain utilizing either an anchor- or distribution-based method. Additionally, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the factors associated with achieving, or not achieving, the MCID, SCB, and PASS.

RESULTS

A total of 73 patients with a mean follow-up of 82.55 ± 24.20 months were available for final analysis. MCID, SCB, and PASS values for the VAS pain were 1.10, 6, and 3, respectively; for the ASES score were 7.8, 34, and 80, respectively; for the SANE were 10.15, 33, and 85, respectively; and for the Rowe score were 11.3, 60, and 90, respectively. To meet the MCID, male sex (odds ratio [OR], 1.1639; P = .0293) was found to be a positive predictor for the VAS pain, and a lower preoperative SANE score (OR, 0.9939; P = .0003) was found to be a negative predictor for the SANE. Dominant arm involvement was associated with lower odds of achieving the PASS for the ASES score (OR, 0.7834; P = .0259) and VAS pain (OR, 0.7887; P = .0436). Patients who reported a history of shoulder trauma were more likely to reach the PASS for the SANE (OR, 1.3501; P = .0089), Rowe score (OR, 1.3938; P = .0052), and VAS pain (OR, 1.3507; P = .0104) as well as the SCB for the ASES score (OR, 1.2642; P = .0469) and SANE (OR, 1.2554; P = .0444). A higher preoperative VAS pain score was associated with higher odds of achieving the SCB for both the VAS pain (OR, 1.1653; P = .0110) and Rowe score (OR, 1.1282; P = .0175). Lastly, concomitant biceps tenodesis was associated with greater odds of achieving the SCB for the ASES score (OR, 1.3490; P = .0130) and reaching the PASS for the SANE (OR, 1.3825; P = .0038) and Rowe score (OR, 1.4040; P = .0035).

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, this study is the first to define the MCID, SCB, and PASS for the ASES score, Rowe score, SANE, and VAS pain in patients undergoing aPLR. Furthermore, we found that patients who reported a history of shoulder trauma and those who underwent concomitant biceps tenodesis demonstrated a greater likelihood of achieving clinical significance. Dominant arm involvement was associated with lower odds of achieving clinical significance.

Effect of Patient Characteristics on the Minimal Clinically Important Difference and Patient Acceptable Symptom State Thresholds After Arthroscopic Bankart Repair

BACKGROUND

There is scarce literature on clinically significant values after arthroscopic Bankart repair (ABR).

PURPOSE

To determine the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and the patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) thresholds at 1 year for the Rowe and Athletic Shoulder Outcome Scoring System (ASOSS) scores after ABR and to determine the effect of patient characteristics on these metrics after ABR.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients undergoing ABR from a single institution between January 2017 and January 2020 was performed. Patients with at least 1 episode of instability and a minimum follow-up of 12 months were included. The exclusion criteria were as follows: bony defects of >20% on the anteroinferior portion of the glenoid based on a preoperative computed tomography scan; engaging Hill-Sachs lesions at 90° of abduction and 90° of external rotation based on an arthroscopic examination; previous surgery on the same shoulder; multidirectional instability or concomitant repair of full-thickness rotator cuff tears; superior labral anterior to posterior lesions; posterior labral tears; or humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament lesions. Patient-reported outcome measures were collected both preoperatively and 1-year postoperatively. Delta was defined as the change between preoperative and 1-year postoperative scores. Distribution-based (one-half the standard deviation of the difference between pre- and postoperative outcome scores) and anchored-based approaches (response to a satisfaction question at 1 year) were used to estimate the MCID and the PASS, respectively. The optimal cutoff point, where sensitivity and specificity were maximized, and the percentage of patients achieving those thresholds were also calculated.

RESULTS

Overall, 190 patients were included. The distribution-based MCID for the Rowe and ASOSS scores were calculated to be 8.2 and 8.7, respectively. The rate of patients who achieved MCID thresholds was 96% for the Rowe and 96% for ASOSS scores. The PASS threshold for the Rowe and ASOSS scores were ≥80 and ≥90, respectively. The rate of patients who achieved PASS scores after ABR were 86% and 83%, respectively. The MCID and PASS values showed great variability based on sex (men: 8.5 and ≥85 for Rowe / 8.9 and ≥90 for ASOSS, respectively, vs women: 6.7 and ≥73 for Rowe / 8.1 and ≥75 for ASOSS), age (≥21: 8.4 and ≥80 / 9.2 and ≥90 vs <21: 7.8 and ≥75 / 7.7 and ≥85), sports participation (sports: 8.8 and ≥85 / 9.5 and ≥90 vs no sports: 8.1 and ≥75 / 8.6 and ≥80), and type of athlete (competitive: 8.4 and ≥85 / 8.9 and ≥87 vs recreational: 7.5 and ≥73 / 8.1 and ≥68).

CONCLUSION

This study identified the MCID and PASS thresholds for the Rowe and ASOSS scores at 1 year after ABR. However, these values showed great variability when accounting for different patient characteristics such as sex, age, sports participation, and type of athlete, highlighting the importance of considering individual patient-specific characteristics for optimal treatment decision-making and ensuring treatment success tailored to each patient's unique needs and expectations.

Evaluation of information from artificial intelligence on rotator cuff repair surgery

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to analyze the quality and readability of information regarding rotator cuff repair surgery available using an online AI software.

Methods

An open AI model (ChatGPT) was used to answer 24 commonly asked questions from patients on rotator cuff repair. Questions were stratified into one of three categories based on the Rothwell classification system: fact, policy, or value. The answers for each category were evaluated for reliability, quality and readability using The Journal of the American Medical Association Benchmark criteria, DISCERN score, Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease Score and Grade Level.

Results

The Journal of the American Medical Association Benchmark criteria score for all three categories was 0, which is the lowest score indicating no reliable resources cited. The DISCERN score was 51 for fact, 53 for policy, and 55 for value questions, all of which are considered good scores. Across question categories, the reliability portion of the DISCERN score was low, due to a lack of resources. The Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease Score (and Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level) was 48.3 (10.3) for the fact class, 42.0 (10.9) for the policy class, and 38.4 (11.6) for the value class.

Conclusion

The quality of information provided by the open AI chat system was generally high across all question types but had significant shortcomings in reliability due to the absence of source material citations. The DISCERN scores of the AI generated responses matched or exceeded previously published results of studies evaluating the quality of online information about rotator cuff repairs. The responses were U.S. 10th grade or higher reading level which is above the AMA and NIH recommendation of 6th grade reading level for patient materials. The AI software commonly referred the user to seek advice from orthopedic surgeons to improve their chances of a successful outcome.

A modified Delphi consensus statement on patellar instability: part II

Aims

The aim of this study was to establish consensus statements on medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction, anteromedialization tibial tubercle osteotomy, trochleoplasty, and rehabilitation and return to sporting activity in patients with patellar instability, using the modified Delphi process.

Methods

This was the second part of a study dealing with these aspects of management in these patients. As in part I, a total of 60 surgeons from 11 countries contributed to the development of consensus statements based on their expertise in this area. They were assigned to one of seven working groups defined by subtopics of interest. Consensus was defined as achieving between 80% and 89% agreement, strong consensus was defined as between 90% and 99% agreement, and 100% agreement was considered unanimous.

Results

Of 41 questions and statements on patellar instability, none achieved unanimous consensus, 19 achieved strong consensus, 15 achieved consensus, and seven did not achieve consensus.

Conclusion

Most statements reached some degree of consensus, without any achieving unanimous consensus. There was no consensus on the use of anchors in MPFL reconstruction, and the order of fixation of the graft (patella first versus femur first). There was also no consensus on the indications for trochleoplasty or its effect on the viability of the cartilage after elevation of the osteochondral flap. There was also no consensus on postoperative immobilization or weightbearing, or whether paediatric patients should avoid an early return to sport.

Intramedullary nailing vs. open reduction-internal fixation for humeral shaft fractures: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to perform a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to compare outcomes following intramedullary nailing (IMN) vs. open reduction-internal fixation (ORIF) for humeral shaft fractures.

METHODS

A literature search of 3 databases was performed based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines. RCTs comparing IMN and ORIF for humeral shaft fractures were included. Clinical outcomes were compared using RevMan. P < .05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Ten RCTs with 512 patients were included. Overall, 8.4% of patients treated with IMN and 6.4% of patients treated with ORIF had nonunion (P = .57, I2 = 0%), with a significantly faster time to union with IMN (10 weeks vs. 11.9 weeks, P < .05). There was no significant difference in the rate of reoperation (11.6% in IMN group vs. 7.6% in ORIF group, P = .26) or radial nerve palsy (2.8% in IMN group vs. 4.2% in ORIF group, P = .58). A lower rate of infection was noted with IMN (1.2% vs. 5.3%, P < .05). Additionally, there was a lower operative time with IMN (61 minutes vs. 88 minutes, P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The Level I evidence in the literature does not show a significant difference in rates of union, reoperation, or radial nerve palsy between IMN and ORIF for humeral shaft fractures. Overall, treatment with IMN results in a lower infection rate, less operative time, and a modestly quicker time to union. The optimal treatment strategy for humeral shaft fractures may be best informed by fracture pattern and surgeon preference.

Primary Latarjet procedure versus Latarjet in the setting of previously failed Bankart repair: a systematic review

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study is to systematically review the comparative studies in the literature to compare the outcomes of the Latarjet procedure in the setting of a previously failed Bankart repair versus those undergoing the Latarjet procedure as a primary surgery for anterior shoulder instability.

METHODS

A systematic search in Pubmed, EMBASE, and The Cochrane Library databases was carried out according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Cohort studies comparing outcomes in the Latarjet procedure as a primary surgery versus the Latarjet procedure in the setting of a previously failed Bankart repair were included.

RESULTS

Ten studies with 1913 patients were included. There was a significantly lower rate of recurrent instability in those with a Latarjet procedure as a primary surgery (4.8% vs 12.1%, p ​= ​0.007). There was also a significantly lower rate of complications with the Latarjet procedure as a primary surgery (6.2% vs 10.2%, p ​= ​0.03). Furthermore, there was a significant difference in the rate of revision surgery in favour of the Latarjet procedure as a primary surgery (4.8% vs 10.9%, p ​= ​0.02). However, there were similar rates of redislocations (2.8% vs 3.4%, p ​= ​0.82) and return to play (67.7% vs 78.5%, p ​= ​0.30) between the two cohorts.

CONCLUSION

This study found that the Latarjet procedure as a revision procedure for a previously failed Bankart repair resulted in higher rates of complications, recurrent instability, and revisions than the Latarjet procedure performed as a primary procedure.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, Systematic Review & Meta-Analysis of Level III studies.

The clinical utility of immediate post-operative PACU plain film radiographs following uncomplicated open Latarjet procedure - An institutional series of consecutive patients

Background

Immediate post-operative plain film radiograph x-rays in PACU following open Latarjet procedure are often ordered as routine. However, such radiographs utilize institutional cost and time, whilst potentially exposing patients to often-unnecessary additional radiation. This study sought to evaluate whether routine immediate post-operative radiographs following uncomplicated open Latarjet procedures impacted clinical decision-making in our institution.

Methods

From 2017 to 2020, patients who underwent open Latarjet procedure by one of four fellowship-trained upper limb surgeons at a single institution were included in this study. Post-operative radiographs taken immediately in PACU were reviewed to determine if any reported radiographic findings impacted on clinical decision-making in the immediate post-operative setting. SPSS was used for descriptive statistics.

Results

A total of 337 patients underwent an X-ray in PACU immediate after uncomplicated open Latarjet procedure. Overall, 98.5% were male (n = 332), the mean patient age of included patients was 22.9 ± 4.2 years. No patient had an abnormal finding on their post-operative x-ray. Two patients returned to the operating room in the immediate post-operative period, both requiring washout and debridement due to haemtoma or superficial wound infection.

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that the use of post-operative plain films in PACU following open Latarjet procedure remains a costly use of resources, with little ultimate impact on clinical decision making in the short-term post-operatively.

Level of Evidence

IV - Institutional Case Series of Consecutive Patients.

Outcomes Following Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction with Allograft A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to systematically review the evidence in the literature in order to evaluate the outcomes following medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction with allograft compared to autograft reconstruction.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed based on PRISMA guidelines using the EMBASE, MEDLINE, and The Cochrane Library databases. Inclusion criteria for the study was clinical studies reporting on MPFL reconstruction with allograft. Recurrence rate, complications, rate of return-to-play, and functional outcomes including the Kujala, Tegner, and visual analog scale (VAS) scores were evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism 8.3.

RESULTS

Our review identified 12 studies with a total of 336 patient knees meeting the inclusion criteria. The majority of patients were female (61.6%), with a mean age of 22.3 years and a mean follow-up of 43.4 months. The overall rate of recurrence of lateral patellar instability was 2.7% in the allograft cohort as compared to 7.8% in the autograft cohort (p = 0.01). The mean Kujala score was 91.8%, and the mean VAS score was 1.3 at final follow-up. Additionally, 81.5% of patients were able to return to play in the studies reporting this outcome measure. The overall complication rate was 1.4%.

CONCLUSION

The overall rate of recurrence was lower following MPFL reconstruction with allograft as compared to autograft in the treatment of lateral patellar instability. Additionally, there were excellent patient reported outcomes and a low complication rate following the use of allograft for MPFL reconstructionPurpose: The purpose of this study was to systematically review the evidence in the literature in order to evaluate the outcomes following medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction with allograft compared to autograft reconstruction.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed based on PRISMA guidelines using the EMBASE, MEDLINE, and The Cochrane Library databases. Inclusion criteria for the study was clinical studies reporting on MPFL reconstruction with allograft. Recurrence rate, complications, rate of return-to-play, and functional outcomes including the Kujala, Tegner, and visual analog scale (VAS) scores were evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism 8.3.

RESULTS

Our review identified 12 studies with a total of 336 patient knees meeting the inclusion criteria. The majority of patients were female (61.6%), with a mean age of 22.3 years and a mean follow-up of 43.4 months. The overall rate of recurrence of lateral patellar instability was 2.7% in the allograft cohort as compared to 7.8% in the autograft cohort (p = 0.01). The mean Kujala score was 91.8%, and the mean VAS score was 1.3 at final follow-up. Additionally, 81.5% of patients were able to return to play in the studies reporting this outcome measure. The overall complication rate was 1.4%.

CONCLUSION

The overall rate of recurrence was lower following MPFL reconstruction with allograft as compared to autograft in the treatment of lateral patellar instability. Additionally, there were excellent patient reported outcomes and a low complication rate following the use of allograft for MPFL reconstruction.

Subscapularis repair for reverse shoulder arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study is to perform a systematic review of the literature evaluating the importance of subscapularis repair in patients who underwent reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA).

METHODS

A systematic search of articles in PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library databases was carried out according to the PRISMA guidelines. Cohort studies comparing RSA with subscapularis repair vs. RSA without subscapularis repair were included. All statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager. A P value of <.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

RESULTS

Seventeen studies with 2620 patients were included. Subscapularis repair resulted in less instability compared to without subscapularis repair (0.8% vs. 4.2%, P = .04), and there were no significant differences in rate of instability with lateralization (0.6% vs. 1.6%, P = .40), revision rates (2.6% vs. 3.9%, P = .62), and complication rates (7.7% vs. 4.9%, P = .21). Subscapularis repair had improved American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES) scores (83.6 vs. 80.2, P = .02) and Constant scores (72.6 vs. 68.9, P < .01) but there was not a significant difference in visual analog scale pain scores (1.2 vs. 1.6, P = .11). Subscapularis repair had a significant difference in forward flexion (140° vs. 137°, P = .04) and internal rotation score (5.5 vs. 4.6, P = .001); however, there was no significant difference in external rotation (35° vs. 35°, P = .80) and abduction (117° vs. 123°, P = .13).

CONCLUSION

This study found that RSA with subscapularis repair demonstrated a reduction in the occurrence of implant instability with medialized implants. However, subscapularis repair did not yield improvements in revision rates, complications, or instability with lateralized implants. Additionally, other outcome measures such as ASES, Constant score, and range of motion exhibited statistically significant improvements with subscapularis repair but did not surpass clinically significant thresholds.

A modified Delphi consensus statement on patellar instability: part I

Aims

The aim of this study was to establish consensus statements on the diagnosis, nonoperative management, and indications, if any, for medial patellofemoral complex (MPFC) repair in patients with patellar instability, using the modified Delphi approach.

Methods

A total of 60 surgeons from 11 countries were invited to develop consensus statements based on their expertise in this area. They were assigned to one of seven working groups defined by subtopics of interest within patellar instability. Consensus was defined as achieving between 80% and 89% agreement, strong consensus was defined as between 90% and 99% agreement, and 100% agreement was considered to be unanimous.

Results

Of 27 questions and statements on patellar instability, three achieved unanimous consensus, 14 achieved strong consensus, five achieved consensus, and five did not achieve consensus.

Conclusion

The statements that reached unanimous consensus were that an assessment of physeal status is critical for paediatric patients with patellar instability. There was also unanimous consensus on early mobilization and resistance training following nonoperative management once there is no apprehension. The statements that did not achieve consensus were on the importance of immobilization of the knee, the use of orthobiologics in nonoperative management, the indications for MPFC repair, and whether a vastus medialis oblique advancement should be performed.

Evaluation of Online Artificial Intelligence-Generated Information on Common Hand Procedures

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to analyze the quality and readability of the information generated by an online artificial intelligence (AI) platform regarding 4 common hand surgeries and to compare AI-generated responses to those provided in the informational articles published by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH) HandCare website.

METHODS

An open AI model (ChatGPT) was used to answer questions commonly asked by patients on 4 common hand surgeries (carpal tunnel release, cubital tunnel release, trigger finger release, and distal radius fracture fixation). These answers were evaluated for medical accuracy, quality and readability and compared to answers derived from the ASSH HandCare materials.

RESULTS

For the AI model, the Journal of the American Medical Association benchmark criteria score was 0/4, and the DISCERN score was 58 (considered good). The areas in which the AI model lost points were primarily related to the lack of attribution, reliability and currency of the source material. For AI responses, the mean Flesch Kinkaid Reading Ease score was 15, and the Flesch Kinkaid Grade Level was 34, which is considered to be college level. For comparison, ASSH HandCare materials scored 3/4 on the Journal of the American Medical Association Benchmark, 71 on DISCERN (excellent), 9 on Flesch Kinkaid Grade Level, and 60 on Flesch Kinkaid Reading Ease score (eighth/ninth grade level).

CONCLUSION

An AI language model (ChatGPT) provided generally high-quality answers to frequently asked questions relating to the common hand procedures queried, but it is unclear when or where these answers came from without citations to source material. Furthermore, a high reading level was required to comprehend the information presented. The AI software repeatedly referenced the need to discuss these questions with a surgeon, the importance of shared decision-making and individualized care, and compliance with surgeon treatment recommendations.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

As novel AI applications become increasingly mainstream, hand surgeons must understand the limitations and ramifications these technologies have for patient care.