Background: Although previous literature has established the association between femoroacetabular impingement and progressive hip osteoarthritis, there exists a paucity of studies investigating the effects of global acetabular overcoverage on chondral wear and long-term outcomes. Purpose: To compare baseline joint space width (JSW), intraoperative findings, long-term total hip arthroplasty (THA)–free survivorship, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), pain levels, and patient satisfaction in patients who underwent hip arthroscopy with global overcoverage (GO) to a matched-control (MC) cohort. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: In this retrospective analysis, the authors queried patients who underwent hip arthroscopy for acetabular labral tears secondary to femoroacetabular impingement. Patients with complete PROMs at a minimum 8-year follow-up, the presence of coxa profunda as indicated by an acetabular wall projecting medial to the ilioischial line, and a lateral center-edge angle >40° were matched 1:1 by sex, age, body mass index, Tönnis grade, and labral treatment to a MC cohort of patients who had normal acetabular coverage. Baseline radiographic and intraoperative findings were compared between cohorts. Collected outcomes include the modified Harris Hip Score, Nonarthritic Hip Score, Lower Extremity Functional Scale score, Hip Outcome Score–Activities of Daily Living, Hip Outcome Score–Sports Specific Subscale, 33-item International Hip Outcome Tool score, pain levels, patient satisfaction, and conversion to THA. Results: In total, 38 patients with GO were 1:1 matched to a MC cohort. The GO cohort had significantly decreased baseline JSW at 50° ( P = .002) and greater chondrolabral junction breakdown ( P = .037). The GO and MC cohorts achieved similar outcomes for all 6 PROMs, rates of conversion to THA, pain levels, and patient satisfaction. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrated that the patients experienced a similar overall 18-year THA-free survival rate (GO: 71.1% vs MC: 84.2%; P = .101). To isolate the long-term effects of GO on hip arthroscopy outcomes, 6- to 18-year THA-free survivorship was examined, revealing that the GO cohort (−13.1%) experienced a significantly greater decrease compared with the MC cohort (−5.3%) ( P = .008). Conclusion: Patients with GO had significantly lower baseline ipsilateral JSW at 50° and greater intraoperative severity of chondrolabral junction breakdown. Furthermore, the GO cohort experienced a significantly greater decrease in long-term THA-free survivorship 6 to 18 years after hip arthroscopy.
Purpose:To investigate whether os acetabuli identified preoperatively influence functional outcomes 2 years after an arthroscopic acetabular labral reconstruction. Methods:Retrospective study with prospectively collected data of patients undergoing primary hip arthroscopy by a single, fellowship-trained surgeon at a single institution were retrospectively reviewed. Inclusion criteria included age ≥18 years and completion of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) preoperatively and at 3-month, 6-month, 12-month, and last follow-up timepoints. Exclusion criteria included labral debridement, hip dysplasia, advanced hip osteoarthritis (Tonnis >1), or previous surgery on the ipsilateral hip. Patients were divided into two cohorts based on the presence of os acetabuli (OA) or the absence of os acetabuli (NOA). Primary outcomes collected included the International Hip Outcome Tool (iHOT-33) and modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS). Secondary outcomes were the Hip Outcome Score-Activities of Daily Living, Hip Outcome Score-Sports Subscale, Non-Arthritic Hip Score, and visual analog pain scale. Inter-cohort outcomes were compared using linear mixed-effects and Fisher's exact tests. Nonlinear improvement trajectories were accounted for by sensitivity analyses. Results:193 hips (49.2% female; mean ± SD age: 35.9 ± 11.0) were included in the final analyses. Of these, 25 (13.0%) had an os acetabulum. No significant differences between patients with and without os acetabuli were found throughout the minimum 2-year follow-up period in terms of iHOT-33 scores (weighted difference: 0.09; 95% CI: -6.81, 6.98; P = .98), mHHS (weighted difference: 2.93; 95% CI: -2.13, 7.98; P = .26), or any secondary outcomes. Additionally, there were no significant differences in any queried clinically meaningful outcomes (P > .05 for all), revision arthroscopy (P =.342), rates of formation of heterotopic ossification (p > .999), or conversion to total hip arthroplasty (P > .999). These results were upheld across sensitivity analyses. Conclusions:Patients with os acetabuli undergoing arthroscopic labral reconstruction had similar 2-year functional outcomes compared to those without os acetabuli. Level of Evidence:Level III, Retrospective cohort study.
Study Design: Retrospective review. Objective: To determine whether the Activity Measure for Post-Acute Care (AM-PAC) “6-Clicks” score is associated with the development of postoperative ileus. Summary of Background Data: Adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery has a high complication rate. One common complication is postoperative ileus, and poor postoperative mobility has been implicated as a modifiable risk factor for this condition. Methods: Eighty-five ASD surgeries in which ≥5 levels were fused were identified in a single institution database. A physical therapist/physiatrist collected patients’ daily postoperative AM-PAC scores, for which we assessed first, last, and daily changes. We used multivariable linear regression to determine the marginal effect of ileus on continuous AM-PAC scores; threshold linear regression with Bayesian information criterion to identify a threshold AM-PAC score associated with ileus; and multivariable logistic regression to determine the utility of the score thresholds when controlling for confounding variables. Results: Ten of 85 patients (12%) developed ileus. The mean day of developing ileus was postoperative day 3.3±2.35. The mean first and last AM-PAC scores were 16 and 18, respectively. On bivariate analysis, the mean first AM-PAC score was lower in patients with ileus than in those without (13 vs. 16; P<0.01). Ileus was associated with a first AM-PAC score of 3 points lower (Coef. −2.96; P<0.01) than that of patients without ileus. Patients with an AM-PAC score<13 had 8 times greater odds of developing ileus (P=0.023). Neither the last AM-PAC score nor the daily change in AM-PAC score was associated with ileus. Conclusions: In our institutional cohort, a first AM-PAC score of <13, corresponding to an inability to walk or stand for more than 1 minute, was associated with the development of ileus. Early identification of patients who cannot walk or stand after surgery can help determine which patients would benefit from prophylactic management. Level of Evidence: Level—III.
Background: Chondral injuries in the knee are commonly discovered during knee arthroscopy procedures. Due to the poor restoration potential and avascular nature of cartilage, large defects are commonly treated with such surgical procedures. Treatment utilizing an osteochondral allograft (OCA) transplant for symptomatic focal cartilage defects in the patellofemoral joint has demonstrated strong, lasting clinical and radiographic outcomes. Indications: Active and otherwise healthy patients are indicated for surgery when presenting with significant joint-line pain and a large focal chondral defect verified on advanced imaging after an extensive course of nonoperative management. Technique Description: Beginning with diagnostic arthroscopy to confirm the large defect of the medial femoral condyle, we proceeded with OCA transplantation. A small medial peripatellar arthrotomy is performed. The fat pad is removed for visualization and retractors are placed both medially and laterally to appropriately visualize the defect. The defect is then sized according to the appropriate sizing guide. The guide is then placed perpendicular to the defect, and a central guide pin is drilled. A scoring reamer is used to carefully cut the size of the defect followed by a central reamer to prepare the defect. Any debris is removed, and the incision is thoroughly irrigated. The defect is then carefully measured in all four quadrants to match the donor. Any underlying bone is impacted for a stable base. A drill is then used for appropriate marrow venting underneath the defect. The corresponding donor site is selected and reamed with continuous irrigation to prevent thermal necrosis. The plug is removed and carefully measured to match the recipient site. The plug is thoroughly irrigated with pulse lavage to remove marrow elements. The graft is carefully inserted with gentle manual pressure until it is seated perfectly flush with the surrounding cartilage. Results: Clinical research has demonstrated good-to-excellent long-term survivorship of OCA transplantation. Long-term return to sport rates for recreational and competitive athletes are upward of 75%. Discussion/Conclusion: As surgical techniques continue to develop, surgeons should consider utilizing OCA transplants to treat large chondral defects in the patellofemoral joint. Patient Consent Disclosure Statement: The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.
Purpose:To (1) systematically assess which orthobiologic agents are being used in acetabular labral repairs and (2) report all available outcomes for patients undergoing operative management for labral repairs with orthobiologic agents. Methods:The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases were queried in August 2023. Articles were included if they used an orthobiologic agent during hip arthroscopy for acetabular labral repair and reported functional outcomes. Each study was queried for demographic data, orthobiologic agent used, volume of agent used, imaging modality used to guide administration, follow-up period, and all reported outcomes. The following Boolean phrase was used to systematically search the current literature: ((Orthobiologics) OR (Platelet-rich plasma) OR (PRP) OR (Mesenchymal stem cells) OR (MSCs) OR (Hyaluronic acid) OR (Growth factors) OR (bone marrow aspirate) OR (BMAC)) AND (hip joint OR (acetabular labrum) OR (Chondrolabr∗ damage) OR (Chondrolabr∗ tear)) AND (outcome∗ OR function∗ OR PROM OR PRO OR arthr∗ OR image OR pain OR complication). Results:Three studies met the inclusion criteria and included 201 patients who received treatment with orthobiologic agents. Of these patients, 119 (59.7%) were women, with age ranging from 35 to 49 years. Ninety-seven patients (48.3%) received bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC), and 104 (51.7%) received platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Both BMAC studies showed no significant improvements compared with controls; however, a subanalysis limited to patients with moderate cartilage damage who received BMAC showed significantly improved 2-year patient-reported outcome measures (International Hip Outcome Tool 33 score, 82.5 vs 69.5; P = .03). The one PRP study did not show significant improvements compared with controls. No complications were noted after either PRP or BMAC harvesting and application in any included study. Conclusions:Overall, BMAC and PRP do not significantly improve patient-reported outcome measures compared with controls. However, there is limited evidence that BMAC may help patients with moderate cartilage damage. Level of Evidence:Level III, systematic review of Level II and III studies.
PURPOSE:To investigate the impact of social determinants of health (SDOH) disparities on 30-day emergency department (ED) visits, 90-day postoperative complications, and 5-year secondary surgery rates after primary hip arthroscopy using a large national database. METHODS:A national administrative claims database was used to identify patients who underwent primary hip arthroscopy with femoroplasty, acetabuloplasty, and/or labral repair between 2015 and 2022. Queries were performed to identify patients who experienced any SDOH disparities, including economic, educational, environmental, or social disparities; those experiencing SDOH disparities within 1 year prior to primary hip arthroscopy were matched 1:1 by age, sex, Elixhauser Comorbidity Index score, diabetes, obesity, and tobacco use to patients not experiencing any lifetime SDOH disparities. The odds of 90-day complications and 30-day ED visits were compared using multivariable logistic regression. Rates of 5-year revision hip arthroscopy and of any secondary surgery (revision hip arthroscopy or total hip arthroplasty) were compared by Kaplan-Meier analysis. RESULTS:A total of 3,383 primary hip arthroscopy patients who experienced SDOH disparities were matched 1:1 to a control cohort of 3,383 patients who did not experience SDOH disparities (age of 41.0 years and 79.6% female sex in both cohorts). The odds of adverse events after arthroscopy were low and did not differ between the SDOH cohort (1.51%) and no-SDOH cohort (1.57%, P = .09). Additionally, there was no difference in the odds of 30-day ED visits between the SDOH cohort (5.65%) and no-SDOH cohort (4.79%, P = .10). The rate of 5-year revision hip arthroscopy was significantly greater among patients experiencing SDOH disparities (5.4% vs 4.1%, P = .02); however, there was no difference in the rate of any secondary surgery between cohorts (11.8% vs 10.4%, P = .10). CONCLUSIONS:Patients experiencing SDOH disparities had similar odds of postoperative complications and ED visits after primary hip arthroscopy but greater rates of 5-year revision hip arthroscopy compared with a matched-control cohort of patients not experiencing SDOH disparities. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:Level III, retrospective case-control study.
Background: Despite the growing volume of neighborhood-level health disparity research, there remains a paucity of prospective studies investigating the relationship between Area Deprivation Index (ADI) and functional outcomes for patients undergoing hip arthroscopy. Purpose: To investigate the relationship between neighborhood-level socioeconomic status and functional outcomes after hip arthroscopy. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data was performed on patients aged >= 18 years with minimum 1-year follow-up who underwent hip arthroscopy for the treatment of symptomatic labral tears. The study population was divided into ADI(Low) and ADI(High) cohorts according to ADI score: a validated measurement of neighborhood-level socioeconomic status standardized to yield a score between 1 and 100. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) included the modified Harris Hip Score, Nonarthritic Hip Score, Hip Outcome Score-Activities of Daily Living, Hip Outcome Score-Sports-Specific Subscale, 33-item International Hip Outcome Tool, visual analog scale for pain, and patient satisfaction. Results: A total of 228 patients met inclusion criteria and were included in the final analysis. After patients were stratified by ADI score (mean SD), the ADI(Low) cohort (n = 113; 5.8 +/- 3.0; range, 1-12) and ADI(High) cohort (n = 115; 28.0 +/- 14.5; range, 13-97) had no differences in baseline patient demographics. The ADI(High) cohort had significantly worse preoperative baseline scores for all 5 PROMs; however, these differences were not present by 1-year follow-up. Furthermore, the 2 cohorts achieved similar rates of the minimal clinically important difference for all 5 PROMs and the Patient Acceptable Symptom State for 4 PROMs. When controlling for patient demographics, patients with higher ADI scores had greater odds of achieving the minimal clinically important difference for all PROMs except the 33-item International Hip Outcome Tool. Conclusion: Although hip arthroscopy patients experiencing a greater neighborhood-level socioeconomic disadvantage exhibited significantly lower preoperative baseline PROM scores, this disparity resolved at 1-year follow-up. In fact, when adjusting for patient characteristics including ADI score, more disadvantaged patients achieved greater odds of achieving the minimal clinically important difference. The present study is merely a first step toward understanding health inequities among patients seeking orthopaedic care. Further development of clinical guidelines and health policy research is necessary to advance care for patients from disadvantaged communities.
Objectives: A prior study investigating 2-year patient-reported outcomes (PROs) following hip arthroscopy found that patients with coxa profunda and acetabular overcoverage report worse improvements yet similar overall outcomes scores. Regarding conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA), however, patients with coxa profunda and overcoverage experienced significantly lower rates of survivorship (88.9% vs 100%; p = 0.04). When considering long-term outcomes, a recent study by Domb et al. found an 85.7% 10-year survivorship in patients after hip arthroscopy. Currently, there remains a paucity of literature on the effects of a deep acetabular socket and pincer-type femoroacetabular impingement on patient outcomes beyond 2-years follow-up. The objective of the present study was to report the long-term survivorship, revision surgery rate, patient satisfaction, pain level, and functional outcome scores in patients with coxa profunda and acetabular overcoverage following hip arthroscopy. Methods: This was an institutional review board-approved retrospective cohort study of patients with coxa profunda and a LCE angle > 40° who underwent hip arthroscopy for labral tears or FAI between November 2002 and May 2013. After failing conservative management, all patients were treated by a single surgeon and received the same capsulotomy technique and postoperative protocol. Patients with a minimum 8-years follow-up, complete PROs, the presence of coxa profunda as indicated by the acetabular wall projecting medial to the ilioischial line, and a LCE angle > 40° were included (Figure 1). Patients with severe osteoarthritis (Tönnis osteoarthritis grade > 2) or any previous hip surgeries were excluded. Patients meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria represented the overcoverage cohort (OC) and were matched 1:1 by sex, age within 8 years, body mass index (BMI) within 5 kg/m2, Tönnis grade, and labral treatment (repair vs debridement) to a matched control (MC) cohort that had a LCE angle between 25° and 40°. Collected postoperative outcomes include conversion to THA, revision hip arthroscopy, patient satisfaction, pain level (0-100), number of corticosteroid injections, and 6 PROs (modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), Nonarthritic Hip Score (NAHS), Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS), Hip Outcome Score (HOS)–Activities of Daily Living (HOS-ADL), HOS–Sports Specific subscale (HOS-SSS), and 33-item International Hip Outcome Tool (iHOT-33). Pearson χ2 test and Fisher exact test were used to compare categorical variables; two-sample t-tests were used to compare continuous variables. The threshold for statistical significance was set to 0.05. A survival analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier curves. All statistical analyses were performed using Stata software (version 18.0; StataCorp). Results: A total of 38 patients in the OC cohort were 1:1 matched with 38 patients in the MC cohort. There were no differences in patient demographics including age, BMI, sex, Tönnis grade, labral treatment, follow-up duration, and Beck classification of labral damage or transition zone (chondrolabral junction) cartilage damage (Table 1). At an average of 11.3 years postoperatively (minimum 8-years follow-up), patients in the OC and MC cohort experienced similar rates of conversion to THA (OC: 11 [28.9%] vs MC: 6 [15.8%]; p = .169) and revision hip arthroscopy (OC: 4 [10.5%] vs MC: 1 [2.6%]; p = .165). The average time from primary hip arthroscopy to conversion to THA was 8.0 ± 6.5 years for OC and 3.7 ± 3.0 years for MC (p = .144) with the OC cohort converting to THA between 6.5 months to 17.14 years while the MC cohort ranged from 4.8 months to 7.8 years. Age at conversion to THA was 54.3 ± 8.0 years for the OC cohort and 59.0 ± 4.0 years for the MC cohort (p = .195). By Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, patients showed similar rates of survivorship (84.2%) at 12 years after hip arthroscopy; however, OC patients showed a 13.1% decrease in long-term survivorship (71.1%) between years 12 and 18 (Figure 2). Additionally, OC and MC patients showed similar levels of patient satisfaction, pain level, postoperative corticosteroid injections, and scores for all 6 PROs (Table 2). Conclusions: Patients with coxa profunda and overcoverage (LCE angle > 40°) showed similar levels of survivorship, revision arthroscopy, patient satisfaction, pain level, number of corticosteroid injections, and PROs to a 1:1 matched cohort of patients with normal acetabular coverage (LCE angle between 25° and 40°) at a minimum 8-years after primary hip arthroscopy. When analyzing long-term survivorship after 12 years, however, patients with overcoverage showed a 13.1% decrease in long-term survivorship (71.1%) compared to a matched control cohort. Overall, a greater focus on extended follow-up care after hip arthroscopy is needed to improve long-term survivorship in patients with a deep acetabular socket and pincer-type femoroacetabular impingement.
Background: Despite focus on surgical preservation of the chondrolabral junction (CLJ), the transition zone between the acetabular cartilage and labrum, the association between severity of CLJ breakdown and functional outcomes after hip arthroscopy remains unexplored. Purpose: To assess the influence of CLJ breakdown on patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) at a 24-month follow-up after hip arthroscopy for symptomatic labral tears. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: A retrospective review of prospectively collected data was conducted to identify patients ≥18 years of age with a minimum 24-month follow-up who underwent hip arthroscopy by a single surgeon for the treatment of symptomatic labral tears secondary to femoroacetabular impingement. The Beck classification of transition zone cartilage was used to grade CLJ damage; patients with grades 0 to 2 were stratified into the mild CLJ damage cohort, and those with grades 3 and 4 were stratified into the severe CLJ damage cohort. PROMs were collected at baseline and at 3, 6, 12 months, and annually thereafter postoperatively. Linear mixed-effects models were used to compare PROMs. Rates of achieving clinically meaningful thresholds and subsequent surgery rates were also compared. Results: In total, 198 patients met the inclusion criteria, with a mean follow-up of 3.54 ± 1.26 years. A total of 95 patients with severe CLJ damage (mean age, 34.9 ± 10.5 years) were compared with 103 patients with mild CLJ damage (mean age, 38.2 ± 11.9 years). Hip Outcome Score–Activities of Daily Living (HOS-ADL), Non-Arthritic Hip Score (NAHS), and visual analog score for pain were inferior in the severe CLJ group at enrollment and all follow-up time points ( P≤ .05). However, patients with severe CLJ breakdown exhibited greater improvements in HOS-ADL and NAHS at the 24-month follow-up and achieved clinically meaningful thresholds at equivalent rates to patients with mild CLJ breakdown. Subsequent surgery rates were 6.8% and 12.6% in patients with mild versus severe CLJ damage, respectively ( P = .250). Conclusion: Severe CLJ breakdown is associated with increased pain and decreased functional level preoperatively and up to 24 months after hip arthroscopy. Despite this, patients with severe CLJ breakdown experienced greater improvements in functional outcomes at a 24-month follow-up and achieved clinical thresholds at similar rates to patients with mild CLJ damage. Thus, while worse baseline pain and functional levels may indicate severe CLJ breakdown, these patients still benefit substantially from hip arthroscopy.
Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) is an autologous orthobiologic agent that may be of benefit in specific surgical scenarios. Composed of elements isolated from bone marrow, including mesenchymal stromal cells, bone marrow–derived platelets, red and white blood cells, and hematopoietic precursors, BMAC has gained appeal for its potential to slow the progression of chondral degeneration, improve function, and provide symptomatic relief. BMAC is typically prepared during the final stages of a surgical procedure, beginning with bone marrow aspirate harvested from the iliac crest, distal femur, body of the ilium, or proximal humerus and then centrifuged to yield concentrated marrow cells. In a published technique for BMAC use in arthroscopic acetabular labral repair, 120 mL of BMA is harvested from the body of the ilium and then centrifuged to yield approximately 4 to 6 mL of BMAC. The biologic activity of BMAC is 2-fold: (1) mesenchymal stromal cells are pluripotent stem cells that stimulate a robust tissue response for cartilage repair through their potential to differentiate into chondrocytes that induce chondrogenesis, and (2) bone marrow–derived platelets produce growth factors, cytokines, and chemokines that promote collagen synthesis, wound healing, and suppression of proinflammatory cytokines. To date, BMAC has shown promise as an efficacious adjuvant therapy. When comparing patient outcomes, studies have found that patients receiving BMAC achieved lower rates of revision rotator cuff repair, higher functional outcome scores following arthroscopic acetabular labral repair, and significant reductions in pain levels in the context of knee cartilage defects. These findings, however, must be interpreted with caution, as there remains a paucity of randomized controlled trials investigating the mid- and long-term efficacy of BMAC. Overall, as treatments for patients with both progressive chondral degeneration and acute orthopaedic injuries continue to evolve, BMAC serves as promising orthobiologic therapy to improve outcomes.
Purpose:(1) To systematically review treatments for partial extensor mechanism tendon tears in professional and amateur athletes and (2) to report outcomes for patients undergoing operative versus nonoperative management. Methods:PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science were queried in August 2023 using the following Boolean search: (quadriceps OR patella) AND (partial) AND (tear). Articles were included if they reported outcomes of operative or nonoperative management of partial extensor mechanism tears of the knee in athletes. The review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses criteria. Each study was queried for demographics, tendon injured, sport and level of athlete, prior treatments, final treatment modality, and return to sport (RTS) outcomes of that treatment. A qualitative subanalysis was performed for professional athletes. Results:Ten studies met inclusion criteria and included 191 partial patellar or quadriceps tendon tears. Of the patients, 81.6% were male and 18.4% were female, with average age ranging from 21 to 28 years; 97% of patients underwent initial nonoperative management. Ultimately, 111 patients (58.1%) were maintained on nonoperative management, and 80 (41.9%) progressed to surgery. Of surgeries, 39 (48.8%) were tendon debridements, 36 (45.0%) were repairs, and 5 (6.3%) were not specified. RTS rates ranged from 33% to 93% after surgery and 70% to 89% following conservative management. Of professional athletes, 23 (33%) underwent surgery, and 46 (67%) underwent ultimate conservative management. RTS rates ranged from 33% to 67% after surgery and were 89% for the applicable study of conservative management. Conclusions:Nearly all patients with partial extensor mechanism tears underwent initial nonoperative management. RTS rates were high but somewhat variable among both patients treated with final nonoperative versus surgical management. Even among professional athletes, most injuries were treated with initial nonoperative management and did not progress to surgery. Level of Evidence:Level V, systematic review of Level IV and V studies.
BackgroundWhile studies have assessed comparative rates of restoration of shoulder function and alleviation of symptoms, comparative systemic postoperative complication rates between biceps tenotomy and tenodesis have yet to be assessed. The purpose of the present study was to use a national administrative database to perform a comprehensive investigation into 30-day complication rates after biceps tenotomy versus tenodesis, thus providing valuable insights for informed decision-making by clinicians and patients regarding the optimal surgical approach for pathologies of the long head of the biceps tendon.MethodsThe National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database was queried to analyze postoperative complication rates and metrics associated with biceps tenotomy and tenodesis. Patient data spanning from 2012-2021 were extracted with relevant variables assessed to identify and compare these two surgical approaches. Adjusted and unadjusted analyses were utilized to analyze patient demographics, comorbidities, operative times, lengths of stay, readmissions, adverse events, and yearly surgical volume, along with trends in usage, across cohorts.ResultsOf 11,527 total patients, 264 (2.29%), 6,826 (59.22%), and 4,437 (38.49%) underwent tenotomy, tenodesis with open repair, and tenodesis with arthroscopic repair, respectively. Tenotomy operative times ([mean ± SD]: 66.25 ± 44.76 minutes) were shorter than those for open tenodesis (78.83 ± 41.82) and arthroscopic tenodesis (75.98 ± 40.16). Conversely, tenotomy patients had longer hospital (0.88 ± 4.86 days) relative to open tenodesis (.08 ± 1.55) and arthroscopic tenodesis (.12 ± 2.70). Multivariable logistic regression controlling for demographics and comorbidities demonstrated that patients undergoing tenodesis were less likely to be readmitted (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 0.42, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.17-0.98, P =0.050) or sustain serious adverse events (AOR: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.13-0.57, P <.001), but equally likely to sustain minor adverse events (AOR: 0.87, CI: 0.21-3.68, P =.850), compared with patients undergoing tenotomy. Lastly, comparing utilization rates from 2012 to 2021 revealed a significant decrease in the proportion of tenotomy (from 6.2% to 1.0%) compared to open tenodesis (from 41.0% to 57.3%) and arthroscopic tenodesis (52.8% to 41.64%; Ptrend = .001).ConclusionTo our knowledge, this is the first large national database study investigating postoperative complication rates between the various surgical treatments for pathologies of the long head of the biceps tendon. Our results suggest that tenodesis yields fewer serious adverse events and lower readmission rates than tenotomy. We also found a shorter operative time for tenotomy. These findings support the increased utilization of tenodesis relative to tenotomy in recent years.
Purpose To compare revision rates and residual postoperative instability after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction based on biological sex. Methods A systematic review was conducted according to the 2020 PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Embase, MEDLINE, and Cochrane library databases were queried from database inception through October 2022. Level I and II prospectively-enrolling human clinical studies that compared revision rates and physical examination of postoperative stability after ACL reconstruction between male and female patients were included. Outcomes were stratified by patient sex and quantitatively compared using a χ2 test. Study quality was assessed using the MINORS criteria. Results Four studies consisting of 406 patients (50% males) with a mean age of 25 years (range, 13.9-62 years) were identified. Mean follow-up time was 34.4 months (range, 22-60 months). Hamstring tendon autografts were used in 62% of ACL reconstructions in males and in 65% of ACL reconstructions in females, whereas bone-patellar tendon-bone autografts were used in 38% and 35% of procedures in males and females, respectively. A residual positive Lachman test result was more frequently reported among females compared to males (5.8% vs 0.6%; P = 0.03). No significant difference in revision rates or residual pivot-shift on examination was observed between males and females (P = 0.38 and P = 0.08, respectively). Conclusion Female patients undergoing ACL reconstruction have higher reported rates of residual anterior instability with Lachman than male patients. However, no sex-based differences were identified with residual pivot-shift on examination or rate of revision ACL surgery. Level of Evidence II; Systematic Review of level II studies.
Purpose:To compare return to sport (RTS) rates and complications after nonoperative versus operative management of tibial stress fractures.Methods:A literature search was conducted per the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines using EMBASE, PubMed, and Scopus computerized data from database inception to February 2023. Studies evaluating RTS sport rates and complications after nonoperative or operative management of tibial stress fractures were included. Failure was defined as defined by persistent stress fracture line seen on radiographic imaging. Study quality was assessed using the Modified Coleman Methodology Score.Results:Twenty-two studies consisting of 341 patients were identified. The overall RTS rate ranged from 91.2% to 100% in the nonoperative group and 75.5% to 100% in the operative group. Failures rates ranged from 0% to 25% in the nonoperative groups and 0% to 6% in the operative group. Reoperations were reported in 0% to 6.1% of patients in the operative group, whereas 0% to 12.5% of patients initially managed nonoperatively eventually required operative treatment.Conclusions:Patients can expect high RTS rates after appropriate nonoperative and operative management of tibial stress fractures. Treatment failure rates were greater in patients undergoing nonoperative management, with up to 12.5% initially treated nonoperatively later undergoing operative treatment.Level of Evidence:Level IV; Systematic Review of level I-IV studies.
Background: The incidence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, reconstructions, and re-ruptures has rapidly increased. Patients with failed ACL reconstructions have been reported to suffer from far worse outcomes as compared with those with primary reconstructions, prompting the advancement of surgical and biologic techniques. Effective treatment of re-tears has been shown to be achieved either utilizing a 1-stage or 2-staged approach, with the latter preferred if the patient presents with significant bone loss, previously malpositioned tunnels, or unacceptable tunnel expansion. Recent literature has shown the efficacy of bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) in improving clinical outcomes and graft integration as well as accelerated ligamentization. Indication: Patients are indicated for surgery when presenting with chronic ACL graft failure and objective insufficiency as well as concerns regarding tunnel overlap, enlargement, or interference. Contraindications for revision involve influences of concurrent injuries that may be secondary causes of the ACL injury. Technique Description: After bone marrow aspiration is performed, the tibial and femoral tunnel apertures are debrided of fibrous tissue with a combination of a shaver and curettes. A threaded guide wire is passed and the interference screws are removed, revealing the residual ruptured graft. A shaver and radiofrequency ablation device are utilized to clean off remaining graft remnants. Sequential debridement and reaming are performed to remove any residual fibrous tissue or sclerotic bone from the tunnel. The demineralized bone matrix is then combined with the prepared BMAC in a syringe with a cannula extension and subsequently injected into the tunnels. A freer elevate is used to tamp and smooth the graft to match the surrounding contour. A 12-mm cannulated allograft bone dowel is then passed up into the tibial tunnel and gently tamped into place. Results: Within 2 years postoperatively, patients are expected to have improved overall knee-specific quality of life, reduced pain, and a successful return to activities. No differences in outcomes have been noted in the literature between 1-staged and 2-staged ACL reconstructions. Discussion/Conclusion: Recent advancements in our understanding of the effects of BMAC in the setting of an ACL reconstruction should prompt surgeons to consider such treatments in indicated patients. Patient Consent Disclosure Statement: The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.
Background: The meniscal roots are essential for preserving the structural and biomechanical properties of the tibiofemoral joint. Posterior meniscal root avulsions can cause meniscal extrusion, joint space narrowing, and progressive knee arthritis. Iatrogenic avulsions after malpositioning of the transtibial tunnels during anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction have previously been reported in the literature to account for poor long-term outcomes seen in some patients following ACL reconstruction. Therefore, correct transtibial tunnel placement during ACL reconstruction is essential to avoid iatrogenic meniscal damage. Indication: Patients are indicated for surgery when presenting with a verified, symptomatic, complete meniscal root tear seen on advanced imaging or diagnostic arthroscopy. Contraindications for a root repair include the development of advanced osteoarthritis in the ipsilateral compartment, older age, and malalignment in the affected compartment. Technique Description: The ACL graft was appreciated and noted to be vertical and posterior relative to its native anatomical position, violating the lateral posterior horn root attachment. A full lateral posterior meniscal root avulsion was then confirmed directly adjacent to the graft tunnel. A curette was used to prepare the footprint of the lateral meniscal root on the posterolateral tibia for the 2-tunnel transtibial pull-out tunnels, and a grasper was used to position the torn meniscal root back into its anatomical site. Two ultrabraided sutures were passed through the posterior horn of the lateral meniscus using a suture passer. These were then passed through the tunnels into the body of the meniscal root and reduced to its native anatomical position. The suture repair was then secured over an Endobutton Fixation Device at 90° of knee flexion through each tunnel into its native anatomical position while confirming its adequate tension by viewing arthroscopically. Results: Within 2 years postoperatively, patients are expected to have improved overall knee-specific quality of life, reduced pain, and a successful return to activities. Discussion/Conclusion: This injury underscores the importance of an accurate tibial tunnel placement during ACL reconstruction to avoid posterior meniscal root injuries and other associated complications. Physicians should consider such pathology in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with persistent pain and instability following a primary ACL reconstruction. Patient Consent Disclosure Statement: The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.
Purpose:To evaluate active social media use among members of the Arthroscopy Association of North America (AANA) and investigate differences in social media use based on joint-specific subspecialization.Methods:The AANA membership directory was queried to identify all active, residency-trained orthopaedic surgeons within the United States. Sex, practice location, and academic degrees earned were recorded. Google searches were conducted to find professional Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube accounts along with institutional and personal websites. The primary outcome was the Social Media Index (SMI) score, an aggregate measure of social media use across key platforms. A Poisson regression model was constructed to compare SMI scores across joint-specific subspecializations: knee, hip, shoulder, elbow, foot & ankle, and wrist. Specialization in the treatment of each joint was collected using binary indicator variables. Since surgeons were specialized in multiple groups, comparisons were made between those who do and do not treat each joint.Results:In total, 2,573 surgeons within the United States met the inclusion criteria. 64.7% had ownership of at least 1 active account, with an average SMI score of 2.29 ± 1.59. Western practicing surgeons had a significantly greater presence on at least 1 website than those in the Northeast (P = .003, P < .001) and South (P = .005, P = .002). Social media use by knee, hip, shoulder, and elbow surgeons was greater relative to those who did not treat those respective joints (P < .001 for all). Poisson regression analysis demonstrated that knee, shoulder, or wrist specialization was a significant positive predictor of a greater SMI score (P ≤ .001 for all). Foot & ankle specialization was a negative predictor (P < .001), whereas hip (P = .125) and elbow (P = .077) were not significant predictors.Conclusions:Social media use widely varies across joint subspecialties within orthopaedic sports medicine. Knee and shoulder surgeons had a greater social media use than their counterparts, whereas foot & ankle surgeons had the lowest social media use.Clinical Relevance:Social media is a vital source of information for both patients and surgeons, providing a means for marketing, networking, and education. It is important to identify variations in social media use by orthopaedic surgeons by subspecialty and explore the differences.
Purpose: To evaluate reported clinical outcomes and complications following radiofrequency (RF) ablation for the treatment of knee chondral lesions. Methods: A literature search was performed according to the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines by querying EMBASE, PubMed, and Scopus computerized databases from database inception through October 2022. Level I to IV clinical studies that reported outcomes or complications following RF-based chondroplasty were included. Postoperative outcome scores and complications were aggregated. Study quality was assessed via the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Results: Ten articles from 2002 to 2018 consisting of 1,107 patients (n = 1,504 lesions) were identified. Four studies were of Level I evidence, 3 studies were Level II, 1 study was Level III, and 2 studies were Level IV. The mean patient age was 41.8 ± 6.3 years (range, 12-87). Seven studies (n = 1,037 patients) used bipolar RF devices, and 3 studies (n = 70 patients) used monopolar RF devices. The overall mean postoperative Lysholm, Tegner, and IKDC scores ranged from 83 to 91, 3.8 to 7, and 49 to 90, respectively, in lesions ranging from grade I-IV according to the Outerbridge Classification. Monopolar RF devices reported qualitatively similar mean changes in Lysholm scores (83), Tegner scores (3.8), and IKDC scores (range, 49-69) compared with bipolar RF devices (range, 86.4-91, 4.5-7, 90, respectively). The incidence of complications ranged from 0% to 4%. The most commonly reported complication was osteonecrosis (range, 0% to 4%). The incidence rate of patients undergoing additional surgery ranged from 0% to 4.5%. Conclusions: The available literature on RF-based chondroplasty shows its efficacy and safety for the treatment of knee chondral lesions, with good clinical outcome scores and low complication and reoperation rates. Level of Evidence: Level IV, systematic review of Level I-IV studies.
Purpose:To compare social media attention and citation rates between technique articles and matched original research articles (ORAs) regarding surgical procedures.Methods:All technique articles published from August 2019 through July 2020 in the free, electronic versions of Arthroscopy Techniques and JBJS Essential Surgical Techniques were matched by topic to articles in the "Original Research" sections of Arthroscopy, Sports Medicine, and Rehabilitation and JBJS Open Access in a 4:1 ratio within this time frame. The primary outcome was the Altmetric Attention Score (AAS). Secondary outcomes included citations, bibliometrics, and social media metrics. Independent t tests were used to compare primary and secondary outcomes between technique articles and ORAs. A multivariate linear regression analysis was performed to determine the association between article type and social media attention while controlling for confounding bibliometric characteristics.Results:A total of 285 matched research articles (n = 57, 20.0%) and technique articles (n = 228, 80.0%) were included. The mean AAS among all technique articles was 3.63 ± 10.08 (range, 0-96) whereas the mean AAS among all ORAs was 1.30 ± 3.98 (range, 0-25), representing a statistically significant difference (P = .016). The mean citation rate among all technique articles was not significantly different from that among ORAs (P = .73). Multivariate linear regression analysis showed a statistically significant positive association between AAS and article type, with an additional mean increase in the AAS of 2.91 (95% confidence interval, 0.04-5.77; P = .047) for every technique article compared with an ORA. Furthermore, a significant positive relation was noted between the article origin and the AAS, with an increase in the AAS of 3.00 (95% confidence interval, 0.82-5.17; P = .007) for every article published in North America compared with an article originating from another continent.Conclusions:Technique articles resulted in significantly greater AASs and social media attention in comparison with open-access ORAs on similar topics. Publications that described technical procedures in a technique journal and studies from North America were positively associated with greater AASs and greater numbers of citations received by articles.Clinical Relevance:An improved understanding of how much attention is given to technique articles versus matched ORAs by social media may influence the methods authors and journals use for distributing content. The present study suggests that one option to increase the amount of social media attention received for a particular study may be to utilize an accompanying surgical technique video or illustrations as these are easily shareable on social media and offer rapid dissemination of knowledge, similar to that of an infographic. However, physicians who view multimedia within technique articles should be encouraged to review the accompanying articles and the supporting original research as a primary source before making changes in their clinical practice.
BACKGROUND Posterior meniscal root avulsions can cause meniscal extrusion, joint space narrowing, and progressive knee arthritis. Iatrogenic posterior meniscal root avulsions after malpositioning of the transtibial tunnels during anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction can account for poor long-term outcomes seen in some patients following ACL reconstruction. Therefore, correct transtibial tunnel placement during ACL reconstruction is essential to avoid iatrogenic meniscal damage. CASE REPORT A 32-year-old man presented with 1 year of right knee pain and instability following a non-contact twisting injury sustained while playing soccer. An ACL tear with no meniscal involvement was diagnosed at an outside institution. A double-bundle reconstruction was performed at that time. Three months after surgery, a medial partial meniscectomy was performed after a medial meniscal tear and failure to reduce initial symptoms during the index procedure. Advanced imaging at our institution 6 months later demonstrated an iatrogenic lateral posterior meniscal root avulsions after malpositioning of the transtibial tunnels. Given the ACL graft integrity upon arthroscopic evaluation, the root tear was repaired using a 2-tunnel transtibial pull-out technique. Advanced imaging 1 year after surgery showed a well-maintained meniscal repair with no extrusion. CONCLUSIONS Accurate transtibial tunnel placement during ACL reconstructive surgery is vital to avoid meniscal root detachment and the associated complications resulting in poor patient outcomes from this iatrogenic injury. Clinicians treating patients with a history of cruciate ligament reconstruction presenting with postoperative pain and instability should consider this pathology in their differential diagnosis.