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Image, graphical abstract Traditional Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) reconstruction is commonly performed using an allograft or autograft and possesses limitations such as donor site morbidity, decreased range of motion, and potential infection. However, a biodegradable synthetic graft could greatly assist in the prevention of such restrictions after ACL reconstruction. In this study, artificial grafts were generated using "wet" and "dry" electrospinning processes with a biodegradable elastomer, poly (ester urethane) urea (PEUU), and were evaluated in vitro and in vivo in a rat model. Four groups were established: (1) Wet PEUU artificial ligament, (2) Dry PEUU artificial ligament, (3) Dry polycaprolactone artificial ligament (PCL), and (4) autologous flexor digitorum longus tendon graft. Eight weeks after surgery , the in vivo tensile strength of wet PEUU ligaments had significantly increased compared to the other synthetic ligaments. These results aligned with increased infiltration of host cells and decreased inflammation within the wet PEUU grafts. In contrast, very little cellular infiltration was observed in PCL and dry PEUU grafts. Micro-computed tomography analysis performed at 4 and 8 weeks postoperatively revealed significantly smaller bone tunnels in the tendon autograft and wet PEUU groups. The Wet PEUU grafts served as an adequate functioning material and allowed for the creation of tissues that closely resembled the ACL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The direct relationship between clinical outcomes and femoral component positioning relative to a tibial insert remains unknown. We determined whether the femoral component position relative to the tibial insert could affect clinical outcomes after fixed-bearing unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA).Methods: The femoral component position relative to the tibial insert of 66 patients with anteromedial osteoarthritis and osteonecrosis of the knee who underwent fixed-bearing UKA was assessed at 2 weeks postoperatively. We classified patients according to the contact point of the femoral component with the tibial component: group M (medial), 18 knees; group C (central), 30 knees; and group L (lateral), 18 knees. Patient-derived clinical scores using the 2011 Knee Society Score were also assessed preoperatively and at 2 years postoperatively and compared among the 3 groups using the analysis of variance.Results: The average 2-year postoperative "symptom" and "patient satisfaction" scores based on the 2011 Knee Society Score were significantly higher in group C than in group M or group L.Conclusion: Central implantation of the femoral component relative to the tibial insert plays an important role in decreasing pain and could result in better patient satisfaction after fixed-bearing UKA at 2 years postoperatively. Surgeons should set the femoral component at the center relative to the tibial insert for better patient satisfaction and higher active knee flexion after fixed-bearing UKA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the association of labral length with acetabular morphology and clinical symptoms.Methods: Patients treated at our hip joint clinic between January 2015 and December 2018 were retrospectively enrolled in the study. Our sample included patients who received a diagnosis of one or more of the following: hip labral tear, femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), and developmental dysplasia of the hip. Patients with osteoarthritis and/or osteonecrosis were excluded. Bilateral labral length was measured as the distance from the acetabular rim to the edge of the labrum at the level of the central coronal T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging scan cross-referenced to the axial plane (3- to 9-o'clock position). The lateral center-edge angle (LCEA) and acetabular roof obliquity (ARO) were evaluated with plain radiographs. An LCEA of 25° or less was defined as developmental dysplasia of the hip, whereas a positive crossover sign in the presence of an LCEA of 30° or greater, an LCEA greater than 40°, or acetabular inclination lower 0° was defined as pincer FAI. An alpha angle greater than 50° or head-neck offset lower 8 mm was considered cam FAI. The severity of hip symptoms was evaluated bilaterally using the Japanese Orthopaedic Association pain scale, on which hips scoring full points (i.e., a perfect score) were defined as asymptomatic whereas hips with all other scores were considered symptomatic. We used simple linear regression to examine the correlations of labral length with the LCEA and ARO. Labral length was also compared according to patient hip symptom status using the Mann-Whitney U test.Results: The study included 102 patients (14 with bilateral symptoms and 88 with unilateral symptoms). Labral length was strongly correlated with the LCEA (r = -0.612, P < .001) and ARO (r = 0.635, P < .001). Additionally, patients with symptomatic hips had significantly larger labra (9.5 ± 3.0 mm) than those with asymptomatic hips (7.9 ± 2.1 mm, P = .004).Conclusions: Acetabular labral length is significantly greater in dysplastic, irregularly congruent, symptomatic hips.Level Of Evidence: Level Ⅳ, retrospective cross-sectional study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Narrow femoral implants were developed to improve fit and prevent overhang in primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We compared intraoperative soft tissue balance between standard and narrow implants in posterior-stabilized (PS) TKA.Methods: We enrolled 30 consecutive patients with varus osteoarthritis undergoing PS TKA using an image-free navigation system. Standard and narrow femoral trial implants were inserted, and their soft tissue balance was measured. Subgroup analysis, based on the actual implanted femoral implant, was performed to assess the influence of narrow implants on soft tissue balance.Results: Narrow trial group had significantly larger joint component gaps than standard trial group at all measured flexion angles, except at 60° (P < .05). For the standard implant cohort, narrow trial group had significantly larger joint component gaps than standard trial group at 30°, 120°, and 135° flexion (P < .05). For the narrow implant cohort, narrow trial group had significantly larger joint component gaps than standard trial group at all measured flexion angles, except at 0° and 60° (P < .05). Narrow trial group had significantly larger varus ligament balance than standard trial group at 45° and 60° flexion (P < .05). The varus angles for standard implants were comparable between groups; however, narrow trial group had significantly larger varus angles for narrow implants than standard trial group at 45°, 60°, and 120° flexion (P < .05).Conclusion: The medial-lateral dimension and volume of the femoral component may influence intraoperative soft tissue balance in PS TKA. The effects may be greater when narrow implants are selected to avoid component overhang. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Valgus subsidence (VS) of the tibial component is a rare complication of unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA), and surgeons might consider revision surgery. The present study aimed to identify the factors related to VS of the tibial component after cementless Oxford mobile-bearing UKA.Methods: The study included 120 patients who underwent Oxford mobile-bearing UKA using a cementless tibial component in our center between September 2015 and September 2016. Six showed VS of >2° after surgery. Patients were stratified into 2 groups according to the occurrence of VS of the tibial component (VS group, n = 6; no-subsidence group, n = 114). Postoperative radiographic evaluations were conducted to assess the varus/valgus alignment, rotation, and mediolateral position of the tibial and femoral components. The Oxford Knee Score (OKS) was assessed at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Positional parameters and sequential change in OKS were compared between the two groups using unpaired t-test (P < .05, statistically significant).Results: At 3 months postoperatively, an average VS of 3.4° in the VS group was observed, with a significant decrease in OKS. VS was associated with a significantly more medial position and external rotation of the tibial component. After 3 months, VS stopped, and the OKS gradually improved without revision surgery.Conclusions: VS might be caused by the malpositioning of the tibial component. VS of the tibial component after UKA appears to stop, with simultaneous pain relief, even without revision after 3 months postoperatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bearing dislocation is a serious complication of unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) with the Oxford knee prosthesis equipped with a mobile bearing. We aimed to clarify the extent of intraoperative movement of the mobile bearing and its relationship with the positioning of prosthesis components in patients undergoing Oxford UKA.Methods: This retrospective study included 50 patients (50 knees) who underwent Oxford UKA for anteromedial osteoarthritis or osteonecrosis of the knee. Intraoperative bearing movement was assessed at various angles of knee flexion (0°, 30°, 60°, 90°, and 120°). We stratified patients according to the extent of bearing movement posteriorly during intraoperative knee flexion, with or without contacting the lateral wall of the tibial component (with contact, 20 knees; without contact, 30 knees). Postoperative radiographic evaluations were conducted at 1 week postoperatively to assess the positional parameters of the tibial and femoral components (varus/valgus alignment, rotation, mediolateral position). Clinical evaluations were conducted at 1 year postoperatively (maximum flexion angle, Oxford Knee Score).Results: Abnormal intraoperative movement of the mobile bearing resulting in contact with the lateral wall of the tibial component was associated with a significantly more medial position and external rotation of the tibial component, as well as poorer improvement in knee flexion angle at 1 year postoperatively.Conclusion: In Oxford UKA recipients, the bearing may impinge on the lateral wall of the tibial component during flexion above 60° if the tibial component is placed too medially or exhibits pronounced external rotation, which may limit knee function improvement postoperatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soft-tissue balance is an important element for the success of total knee arthroplasty; however, the influence of intraoperative soft-tissue balance on knee kinematics in posterior-stabilized-total knee arthroplasty remains unknown. We investigated whether intraoperative soft-tissue balance could influence knee kinematics and flexion angle after posterior-stabilized-total knee arthroplasty. This study included 30 patients with knee osteoarthritis and varus alignment who underwent posterior-stabilized total knee arthroplasty; intraoperative soft-tissue balance parameters, such as varus ligament balance and joint component gap, were assessed by an offset-type tensor at knee flexion angles of 0°, 10°, 30°, 60°, 90°, 120°, and 135°. Medial and lateral compartment gaps were calculated. The amount of tibial internal rotation was determined between 60° and 135° flexion by the navigation system. Simple linear regression analysis was used to analyze the effects of intraoperative soft-tissue balance on tibial internal rotation. Linear regression analysis was used to assess correlation between tibial internal rotation and postoperative knee flexion angle. Medial compartment gaps at 60° (r = −0.57, P < 0.05) and 90° (r = −0.60, P < 0.05) of flexion were significantly negatively correlated with tibial internal rotation. Moreover, tibial internal rotation showed a significant correlation with the 2-year postoperative knee flexion angle (r = 0.50, P < 0.05) and improvement in knee flexion angle (r = 0.61, P < 0.05). Thus, smaller medial compartment gaps at 60° and 90° of flexion play an important role in achieving medial pivot motion with tibial internal rotation; moreover, tibial internal rotation provides a better flexion angle after posterior-stabilized total knee arthroplasty. • Tibial internal rotation during flexion is affected by medial compartment gaps at 60° and 90° of flexion. • Tibial internal rotation during flexion correlated with postoperative maximum knee flexion angle. • Medial knee stability at 60° and 90° of flexion is extremely important for medial pivot motion. • Tibial internal rotation provides a better flexion angle after posterior-stabilized-total knee arthroplasty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The relationship between postoperative limb alignment and clinical outcomes in primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is well reported, but the instruments used to evaluate clinical outcomes of TKA are mainly scoring systems from the physician's viewpoint, not patient-reported outcomes. The purpose of this study was to investigate retrospectively the relationship between postoperative limb alignment and patient-reported clinical outcomes using the 2011 Knee Society Knee Scoring System (2011 KSS).Methods: The present study included 155 knees of patients (median age, 74 years) who underwent primary TKA for varus osteoarthritis, with a mean follow-up period of 46 months. The subjects were divided into three groups based on postoperative limb alignment and femoral and tibial component positioning angle (varus, neutral, and valgus). The 2011 KSS scores were compared among the groups.Results: For limb alignment, the postoperative objective knee indicator score was significantly lower in the valgus group than in the varus and neutral groups, whereas no significant differences were observed in any subjective categories of the 2011 KSS. However, for the femoral component angle, functional activity scores were significantly lower in the valgus group than in the varus and neutral groups.Conclusions: The subjective patient-reported score was not affected by the postoperative limb alignment. However, the valgus femoral component angle resulted in lower subjective functional scores. For clinical relevance, postoperative valgus positioning of femoral component should be avoided from patient-reported functional aspects during TKA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The importance of medial compartment stability is recognized in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). To manage the medial extension-flexion gap, the posterior reference position can be changed from conventional posterior center to posterior medial in measured resection techniques. This study aimed to compare the intraoperative soft tissue balance and rotational kinematics between the posterior medial and posterior center reference groups.Methods: We enrolled 57 consecutive patients with varus osteoarthritis undergoing posterior-stabilized (PS) TKA using an image-free navigation system. The detailed surgical plan in both groups and intraoperative kinematics were recorded using navigation, and soft tissue balance measured with an offset-type tensor was statistically compared between groups.Results: Patients were divided into the posterior center reference group (n = 32) and posterior medial reference group (n = 25). The posterior medial and posterior lateral condyles were significantly thicker in the posterior center reference group (P < .05). Although preoperative rotational kinematics were comparable between groups, the tibial rotational position was significantly more externally rotated in the posterior center reference group than in the posterior medial reference group at 45°, 60°, and 90° of flexion (P < .05). The varus angle and joint component gap were significantly smaller in the posterior medial reference group than in the posterior center reference group at 60° and 90° of flexion (P < .05).Conclusion: The posterior reference position affects intraoperative kinematics and soft tissue balance in navigated PS TKA. Posterior medial reference PS TKA decreases the excessive tibial external rotation during midflexion and increases the flexion stability compared with conventional posterior center reference PS TKA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Medial stability of the knee is considered to be associated with good clinical results after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This study aimed to compare intraoperative soft tissue balance between cruciate-retaining (CR) and posterior-stabilized (PS) TKA performed by a newly developed medial preserving gap technique, which aimed at preserving medial stability throughout the range of motion.Methods: Seventy CR-TKAs and 70 PS-TKAs were performed in patients with varus type osteoarthritis with the novel technique guided by tensor measurements. Final intraoperative soft tissue balance with femoral trial component in place and patellofemoral joint reduced, including the joint component gap and varus/valgus ligament balance (varus angle), with the knee at 0° (full extension), 10° (extension), 30°, 45°, 60°, 90° (flexion), 120°, and 135° (deep flexion), was measured with Offset Repo-Tensor under 40 lbs of joint distraction force. The medial compartment gap (MCG), lateral compartment gap, and medial joint looseness (MCG-polyethylene insert thickness) at each flexion angle were calculated from the measured joint component gap and varus ligament balance, and compared between CR-TKA and PS-TKA.Results: The MCGs from extension to deep flexion of the knee showed no significant differences between CR-TKA and PS-TKA. The lateral compartment gaps in PS-TKA from 30° to 60° of knee flexion was significantly larger than those in CR-TKA (P < .05). Medial joint looseness showed no significant differences between CR-TKA and PS-TKA which is consistent within 1 mm from extension to flexion of the knee.Conclusion: PS-TKA similarly achieved medial stability comparable to CR-TKA using the medial preserving gap technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose This study aimed to clarify the influence of the posterior condylar offset (PCO) on intraoperative soft tissue balance including the joint component gap and varus ligament balance measured by an offset-type tensor during posterior-stabilized (PS) total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Methods In this study, 35 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee underwent PS TKA. Intraoperative soft tissue balance including the joint component gap and varus/valgus ligament balance were assessed at 0°, 10°, 45°, 90°, and 135° of flexion with an offset-type tensor that could be used with the femoral component placement and patellofemoral joint reduction. The correlations between the postoperative PCO and the intraoperative soft tissue balance parameters were assessed using simple regression analysis. Results The joint component gap at 0° extension was inversely correlated with the PCO (R = −0.41, p < 0.05). The joint component gap of 10°–0° was positively correlated with the PCO (R = 0.35, p < 0.05). No other soft tissue balance parameters were correlated with the PCO. Conclusions A larger PCO was confirmed to reduce joint component gap in extension but not always in flexion in PS TKA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction There are few specific reports of late medial instability after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We described two cases of late medial instability of the knee due to hip disease with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis after TKA, which required revision TKA. Presentation of cases An 82-year-old woman experienced right femoral neck fracture due to a fall that required conservative treatment at age 77 years and underwent left TKA at age 80 years. A 68-year-old woman underwent left TKA at age 54 years, right TKA at age 64 years, and left THA at age 67 years. Both cases required revision TKA with constrained knee prostheses due to the severe medial instability. Hip-knee-ankle (HKA) angle, range of motion (ROM), Knee Society score (KSS) and functional score (FS) were evaluated pre- and postoperatively. Their respective HKA angle improved from 134° and 155° preoperatively to 184° and 179° postoperatively. KSS improved from −4 and 53 points to 59 and 100 points, respectively. FS improved from −10 and 58 points to 25 and 90 points, respectively. In the 82-year-old woman, ROM did not improve from −10–90° to −20–90°. On the other hand, in the 68-year-old woman, ROM improved from 0–110° to 0–125°. The late medial instability in the current case report was partly due to a similar mechanism underlying the long leg arthropathy and coxitis knee caused by hip joint degeneration. Conclusions Constrained prostheses were applied for both patients, providing moderately good short-term results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We identified preoperative predictors and size of acetabular bone defects for poor return to daily activity after revision total hip arthroplasty.Methods: Our analysis was based on outcomes of 140 cases of revision total hip arthroplasty, performed for any reason between May 2001 and March 2013. The Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score and body mass index (BMI) measured preoperatively, and the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) activity score and JOA score measured at the 2-year follow-up were evaluated. Acetabular bone defects were classified according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons grading system, with further classification of the location and severity of each acetabular bone defect. We compared preoperative clinical factors and postoperative clinical outcomes statistically.Results: We found a significant association between the number of revision surgeries and worse postoperative JOA scores and UCLA activity scores. There were significant differences in postoperative JOA scores and UCLA activity scores between patients with partial and global acetabular bone defects.Conclusion: Multiple revision surgeries and the size of the acetabular bone defect were predictors of both poorer clinical outcome and greater restriction in postoperative daily activities. Closer attention to the postoperative management of patients with a lower preoperative status is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is a common sports injury. Generally, arthroscopic ACL reconstruction is performed because of the poor self-healing ability of the injured ACL. In the healing process after ACL reconstruction, tendon graft remodeling and incorporation at the tendon-bone junction are important factors for healing success. It is commonly accepted that the strength of the tendon graft attenuates immediately after ACL reconstruction and gradually increases thereafter. This gradual maturation of the grafted tendon is considered a cause for graft failure or elongation after ACL reconstruction. On the other hand, the bone-tendon junction is the weakest region after ACL reconstruction. In native anatomy, fibrocartilaginous tissue binds the ACL and bone, but this tissue does not undergo remodeling during reconstruction. A fibrous scar-like tissue often binds the grafted tendon and bone, ultimately affecting the stability of the graft in the bone tunnel and contributing to ACL rerupture. To solve this and other issues related to ACL reconstruction, extensive basic research has been conducted in recent years regarding biological or tissue augmentation, including studies on stem cells, growth factors, cytokines, and synthetic grafts. Alternatives for quicker graft maturation and more robust tendon-bone junction remodeling have been reported in animal models. These investigative results show promise for more aggressive rehabilitation techniques in the near future that will facilitate an earlier return to sports for patients with ACL injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate quantitatively the biomechanical function of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) remnants in patients with ACL injuries. Anterior tibial translation (ATT) with KT-1000 and during the Lachman test with an electromagnetic measurement system (EMS) and tibial acceleration during the pivot shift test with EMS were measured.Methods: A total of 121 unilateral ACL injuries were examined. ACL remnants were morphologically classified as being attached to the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL group), to the roof of the intercondylar notch (RIN group), to the lateral wall of the intercondylar notch (LWIN group), or as having no substantial remnants (NONE group). Partial ACL tears were excluded. ATT was measured using KT-1000. ATT during the Lachman test and tibial acceleration during the pivot shift test were measured using EMS.Results: ACL remnant patterns were as follows: PCL group, 27 knees; RIN group, 34 knees; LWIN group, 27 knees; and NONE group, 33 knees. The ATT side-to-side difference in LWIN group (3.4 ± 0.7 mm) by KT-1000 was significantly smaller than the RIN (5.7 ± 1.0 mm) and NONE groups (5.9 ± 1.0 mm) (P < .05). The ATT side-to-side difference during the Lachman test was significantly smaller in the LWIN group (5.3 ± 1.2 mm) than the PCL (8.6 ± 1.4 mm), RIN (8.5 ± 1.2 mm), and NONE groups (7.6 ± 1.0 mm) (P < .05). Tibial accelerations were 2.0 ± 0.4, 1.7 ± 0.2, 1.9 ± 0.2, and 1.8 ± 0.3 m/s(2) in the PCL, RIN, LWIN, and NONE groups, respectively. There were no significant differences among groups.Conclusions: ACL remnants attached to the lateral wall of the intercondylar notch partially contributed to anterior-posterior stability but did not contribute to dynamic knee stability. These findings suggest that ACL remnants attached to nonanatomic insertion sites do not contribute significantly to knee stabilization.Level Of Evidence: Level III, diagnostic study of nonconsecutive patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although many studies have reported that postoperative knee flexion is influenced by preoperative conditions, the factors which affect postoperative knee flexion have not been fully elucidated. We tried to investigate the influence of intraoperative soft tissue balance on postoperative knee flexion angle after cruciate-retaining (CR) total knee arthroplasty (TKA) using a navigation and an offset-type tensor.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 55 patients with osteoarthritis who underwent TKA using e.motion-CR (B. Braun Aesculap, Germany) whose knee flexion angle could be measured at 2 years after operation. The exclusion criteria included valgus deformity, severe bony defect, infection, and bilateral TKA. Intraoperative varus ligament balance and joint component gap were measured with the navigation (Orthopilot 4.2; B. Braun Aesculap) while applying 40-lb joint distraction force at 0° to 120° of knee flexion using an offset-type tensor. Correlations between the soft tissue parameters and postoperative knee flexion angle were analyzed using simple linear regression models.Results: Varus ligament balance at 90° of flexion (R = 0.56; P < .001) and lateral compartment gap at 90° of flexion (R = 0.51; P < .001) were positively correlated with postoperative knee flexion angle. In addition, as with past studies, joint component gap at 90° of flexion (R = 0.30; P < .05) and preoperative knee flexion angle (R = 0.63; P < .001) were correlated with postoperative knee flexion angle.Conclusion: Lateral laxity as well as joint component gap at 90° of flexion is one of the most important factors affecting postoperative knee flexion angle in CR-TKA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medial release for varus knee is a key procedure to obtain appropriate soft tissue balance in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The influence of semimembranosus release during cruciate-retaining (CR) TKA on knee kinematics and clinical outcomes were investigated in consecutive 50 patients (25: semimembranosus release group, 25: minimum release group) with moderate varus osteoarthritis using a navigation system. Semimembranosus release significantly reduced the amount of tibial internal rotation before bone cut and after all prostheses implanted. Despite of no significant differences in clinical scores between the groups, minimum release group exhibited significantly higher postoperative flexion angle compared to the semimembranosus release group. Minimal medial release with avoiding semimembranosus release maintains tibial internal rotation in CR TKA, resulting in achievement of postoperative high flexion angle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ruptured human anterior cruciate ligaments (ACL) contain vascular stem cells capable of enhancing the healing of tendon grafts. In the current study we explored the role that neo-angiogenesis plays in ACL healing. ACL-derived CD34+ cells were isolated via Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorting (FACS) from the rupture sites of human ACLs. The cells were then virally transduced to express either vascular endothelial growth factor ( VEGF ) or soluble FLT-1 ( sFLT-1 ), which is an antagonist of VEGF . We established five groups: CD34+VEGF(100%), where 100% of the cells were transduced with VEGF, CD34+VEGF(25%), where only 25% of the cells were transduced with VEGF, CD34+, CD34+sFLT-1, and a No cells group. The CD34+sFLT1 group had a significant reduction in biomechanical strength compared to the CD34+ group at 4 and 8 weeks; whereas the biomechanical strength of the CD34+VEGF(25%) group was significantly greater than the CD34+ group at week 4; however, no difference was observed by week 8. Immunohistochemical staining demonstrated a significantly lower number of isolectin B4 and hCD31 positive cells, markers associated with angiogenesis, in the CD34+sFLT1 group, and a higher number of isolectin B4 and hCD31 positive cells in the CD34+VEGF(100%) and CD34+VEGF(25%) groups compared to the CD34+ group. Graft maturation was significantly delayed in the CD34+sFLT1 group and accelerated in the CD34+VEGF(25%) group compared to the CD34+ group. In conclusion, blocking VEGF reduced angiogenesis, graft maturation and biomechanical strength following ACL reconstruction. Native expression of VEGF by the CD34+ cells improved tendon graft maturation and biomechanical strength; however, over-expression of VEGF impeded improvements in biomechanical strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Diabetes mellitus is a major cause of cardiovascular, kidney, neurologic, and eye diseases, and may be preventable in some cases by lifestyle modification. Screening tests for diabetes mellitus include fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Our objective was to evaluate the utility of plasma glycated albumin (GA) in the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. Design and methods A cross-sectional, community-based population study of 908 non-diabetic Japanese residents was conducted. Of these subjects, 176 with FPG value between 5.5 and 6.9 mmol/l, and an HbA1c level of < 6.5% received an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Results The OGTT results were used for the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus using World Health Organization criteria. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses demonstrated that optimal threshold values for the diagnosis of diabetes in this population were 15.2% for GA and 5.9% for HbA1c, respectively. Using these cutoff levels, the sensitivity of GA at 62.1% for detecting diabetes was the same as that of HbA1c. However the specificity for GA for detecting diabetes was 61.9%, while for HbA1c it was higher at 66.7%. Conclusions Our results indicate that the measurement of glycated albumin may serve as a useful screening test for diabetes in a general Japanese population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The success of unicompartmental knee arthroplasty relies on a lot of factors such as correct osteotomy and proper soft-tissue tensioning. A selection of insert thickness depends solely on the surgeon's subjective feeling. Recently, a tensor that is designed to assess soft tissue balance during unicompartmental knee arthroplasty has been developed. The purpose of this study was to compare the component gap throughout the range of motion among different distraction forces and examine the correlation between the component gap and the insert thickness. Methods 30 cases of 29 patients were included. All the patients received a conventional medial Zimmer Unicompartmental High Flex Knee System. Using a tensor under 10, 20, 30, and 40 lb distraction forces, after femoral component placement, the component gaps were assessed throughout the range of motion. The correlations between the component gap and the insert thickness selected were examined. Findings The component gap showed the same kinematic pattern among the different distraction forces and the value increased in proportion to the increase of the distraction force in unicompartmental knee arthroplasty. The insert thickness in unicompartmental knee arthroplasty was found to have a strong positive correlation with the component gap from 10 to 45° of knee flexion with a distraction force of more than 20 lb Interpretation With the use of the tensor, surgeons can quantify the component gap and objectify their insert thickness decision compared with the use of tension gauge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Recently direct-acting antiviral agents, such as hepatitis C virus (HCV) non-structural 3/4A (NS3/4A) protease inhibitors (PI), have been introduced, and triple therapy regimens that include PI with conventional pegylated interferon α and ribavirin have significantly improved the sustained virological response (SVR) rate, up to 80% for both treatment-naïve and treatment-experienced patients with HCV genotype 1. We here report for the first time a case of the successful treatment of HCV genotype 1 infection with a first generation PI drug (telaprevir) based triple therapy after treatment failure with a second generation PI drug (vaniprevir) based triple therapy. A 67-year-old treatment-naïve Japanese man with HCV genotype 1b infection took part in a phase III clinical trial of vaniprevir-based triple therapy. His serum HCV RNA had become undetectable at week 2 and SVR was highly expected, but HCV RNA reappeared at week 4 after vaniprevir treatment. Polymerase chain reaction direct sequence of the HCV NS3/4A gene at week 8 after vaniprevir treatment showed the emergence of a vaniprevir-resistance mutation (D168V), the probable reason for the treatment failure. Six months later, retreatment with telaprevir-based triple therapy was started. Although the dosages of telaprevir and ribavirin had to be reduced due to severe anemia, the patient achieved an SVR. This case shows the value of repeating PI-based triple therapy with a different drug, a process that would reduce the chance of drug resistant mutation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess quantitative anterior/posterior values during the Lachman test by an electromagnetic measurement system and to compare data with KT-1000 arthrometric measurements (MEDmetric, San Diego, CA), as well as the measurement of radiologic laxity by dynamic radiographs. Methods: We used an electromagnetic device to quantitatively evaluate anterior knee displacements. We tested 82 knees in 41 patients (30 isolated anterior cruciate ligament [ACL]–deficient, 11 ACL-reconstructed, and 41 contralateral ACL-intact knees). Anterior displacements during the Lachman test were calculated by the electromagnetic measurement system and fluoroscopic measurement, and anterior displacements were also measured by the KT-1000 arthrometer. Anterior/posterior displacements measured by these methods were compared, and correlations were assessed. Results: In ACL-deficient knees, mean anterior/posterior displacement (±SE) was 22.4 ± 0.8 mm in electromagnetic measurements, 22.0 ± 0.7 mm in fluoroscopic measurements, and 15.0 ± 0.6 mm in KT-1000 measurements. In contralateral ACL-intact knees, it was 15.7 ± 0.6 mm, 15.6 ± 0.5 mm, and 9.9 ± 0.4 mm, respectively. In ACL-reconstructed knees, it was 15.7 ± 0.7 mm, 16.2 ± 0.8 mm, and 11.2 ± 0.6 mm, respectively. In all knee conditions, significant differences between fluoroscopic measurements and KT-1000 measurements were detected (P < .01). Significant differences were also detected between electromagnetic measurements and KT-1000 measurements (P < .01). No significant differences were detected between fluoroscopic measurements and electromagnetic measurements. A strong correlation was obtained between KT-1000 measurements and fluoroscopic measurements (r = 0.62, P < .01) and between electromagnetic measurements and KT-1000 measurements (r = 0.64, P < .01). However, the strongest correlation was observed between electromagnetic measurements and fluoroscopic measurements (r = 0.96, P < .01). Conclusions: An electromagnetic measurement system to test anterior/posterior tibial translation determined that quantification of the Lachman test could be performed as accurately as fluoroscopic measurements. Level of Evidence: Level II, development of diagnostic criteria on basis of consecutive patients with universally applied reference gold standard. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

An 81-year-old man was admitted to our hospital because of fever and malaise that had persisted for 3 months. The patient had undergone two aortic valve replacements, 10 and 5 years previously, because of aortic valve regurgitation and infectious endocarditis. He also had had asymptomatic Mycobacterium abscessus complex (MABC) pulmonary disease for the two previous years. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed a mediastinal abscess and an ascending aortic aneurysm. Mycobacterium abscessus subsp. massiliense was cultured from his blood, suggesting the aortic aneurysm was secondary to infection of an implanted device. After enlargement over only a few days, a leakage of contrast medium to the mediastinal abscess was found on computed tomography. The patient was diagnosed with rupture of an infectious aortic aneurysm, and emergency aortic replacement and drainage of the mediastinal abscess were successful. The patient was treated with several antibiotics, including meropenem, amikacin, and clarithromycin, and his general condition improved. Cultures from both the mediastinal abscess and a pericardial patch that was placed at the time of surgery 5 years previously revealed MABC. In our case, the infected aortic aneurysm most likely resulted from MABC pulmonary disease rather than from previous intraoperative contamination. This route of infection is rare. Physicians should be aware of the possibility of dissemination and subsequent infection of implants related to MABC pulmonary disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to compare tibial rotation and patellar contact force between mobile- and fixed-bearing total knee arthroplasty from extension to flexion by using a navigation system and patellar contact force sensor on the same patients' knees. Thirty-one consecutive patients who had undergone a primary posterior stabilized total knee arthroplasty were included. Patellar contact forces on the medial and lateral sides were measured at each flexion angle, and tibial rotation was assessed during 30–90°, and 90–120° knee flexion. The patellar contact force and tibial rotation were measured twice with the mobile- and fixed-platform trial components and compared between the two groups. The patellar contact force was significantly lower with mobile than with fixed-bearing total knee arthroplasty on the medial side at 120° flexion (P =.0138) and lateral side at 60°, 90°, and 120° flexion (P =.0346, P =.0127, and P =.0376). There were no significant differences in tibial rotation between the mobile- and fixed-bearing inserts during both 30–90° and 90–120° knee flexion. Patellar contact force was significantly lower, especially on the lateral side in mobile than in fixed-bearing total knee arthroplasty, whereas no significant difference in tibial internal rotation was found between the two inserts. Mobile-bearing inserts might reduce the patellar contact force by the bearing rotation, rather than natural tibial rotation during posterior stabilized total knee arthroplasty. • Patellar contact force was significantly lower in mobile than in fixed-bearing insert. • There was no difference in tibial rotation between the mobile- and fixed-bearing inserts. • Mobile-bearing inserts might reduce the patellar contact force by the bearing rotation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Accurate orientation of acetabular and femoral components is important during total hip arthroplasty (THA). In recent years, several navigation systems have been developed. However, these navigation systems for THA are unpopular worldwide because of their high cost. We assessed the orientation accuracy of cups inserted using a disposable accelerometer-based portable navigation system for THAs.Methods: This was a prospective cohort study. We analyzed 63 hips with navigation prospectively and 30 hips without navigation retrospectively as historical control. The patients underwent THA via the mini anterolateral approach in the supine position using an accelerometer-based portable navigation system. We compared the preoperative target angles, intraoperative cup angles using navigation records, postoperative angles using postoperative CT data, measurement errors of cup angles, and clinical parameters such as sex, treated side, age at surgery, and body mass index (BMI).Results: The average absolute error (postoperative CT-navigation record) was 2.7 ± 2.1° (inclination) and 2.7 ± 1.8° (anteversion), and the absolute error (postoperative CT-preoperative target angle) was 2.6 ± 1.9° (inclination) and 2.7 ± 2.2° (anteversion). The absolute error between postoperative CT and target angle with navigation was significantly lower than the error without navigation (inclination; p = 0.025, anteversion; p = 0.005). Cup malalignment (absolute difference of inclination or anteversion between postoperative CT and preoperative target angle of over 5°) was significantly associated with BMI value (OR: 1.3, 95% CI: 1.1-1.7). The absolute measurement error of cup inclination and anteversion was significantly correlated with patients' BMI (inclination error: correlation coefficient = 0.53, p < 0.001, anteversion error: correlation coefficient = 0.58, p < 0.001).Conclusions: The clinical accuracy of accelerometer-based portable navigation is precise for the orientation of cup placement, although accurate cup placement was affected by high BMI. This is the first study to report the accuracy of accelerometer-based portable navigation for THA in the supine position. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Occult hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection (OBI) is hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) negative but with detectable HBV DNA. Although HIV infection has been reported to be a risk factor for OBI, the prevalence and clinical features of OBI in Japanese HIV infected patients have not been documented. This retrospective, single-center study was conducted to determine the prevalence and characteristic of OBI in Japanese antiretroviral therapy (ART) naïve HIV infected patients. OBI was defined as the presence of serum HBV DNA but without detectable HBsAg. Of the 147 ART naïve HIV infected patients, OBI was detected in 9 (6.1%) patients; 2 (4.3%) of 47 with both anti-HBs and anti-HBc positive, 6 (27.3%) of 22 with anti-HBc alone, and 1 (2.0%) of 50 with both anti-HBs and anti-HBc negative. The mean HBV DNA level was low at 28.7 ± 18.2 IU/mL. The proportion of OBI patients with anti-HBc alone was significantly higher than that of non-OBI patients (66.7% vs 14.5%, P = 0.001). In addition, the prevalence of AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome)-defining illnesses in the OBI group was significantly higher than in the non-OBI group (77.8% vs 35.5%, P = 0.001). No significant difference was found in the CD4 count or alanine aminotransferase levels of these two groups. This is the first study to reveal the prevalence and clinical features of OBI in Japanese HIV-infected patients. The persistence of anti-HBc alone and AIDS-defining illnesses were associated with the occurrence of OBI in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The effectiveness of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) on ambulatory and balancing function recovery should be quantitatively investigated. The present study aimed to evaluate ambulatory function using 3m-timed up and go (TUG) test and balancing function using one-leg standing time (ST) from before and after TKA, and to analyze the effects of intraoperative soft tissue balance on the postoperative improvement of their functions after TKA.Methods: The study included 65 patients with varus-type knee osteoarthritis who underwent primary posterior-stabilized (PS) TKA. The TUG test and ST were performed preoperatively, 1 month and 12 months after TKA. The intraoperative soft tissue balance, medial and lateral joint looseness (MJL, LJL) were evaluated with both femoral trial in place and patellofemoral joint reduced using the OFR tensor® with the knee at 0, 10, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, and 135°. The influences of MJL and LJL on the improvement in TUG test time and ST and the 2011 Knee Society Knee Scoring System (2011 KSS) 12 months after TKA were investigated.Results: The mean TUG test times and ST were 12.7 and 13.1, 13.5 and 15.4, and 10.9 and 19.2 s preoperatively, 1 month and 12 months after TKA, respectively. The MJL at 10, 30 and 90° flexion was significantly negatively correlated with improvement in the TUG test time and the MJL at 0° flexion was significantly negatively correlated with improvement in the ST. However, the LJL was not significantly correlated with improvement in the TUG test time and the ST. The MJL at 45, 60, and 90° flexion was significantly negatively correlated with the 12-month postoperative score on the activities subscale of the 2011 KSS.Conclusions: The higher intraoperative medial knee stability may be associated with the better postoperative improvement in ambulatory function and activities subscale of the 2011 KSS after PS-TKA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 53-year-old male Japanese patient with COVID-19 was admitted to our hospital after his respiratory condition worsened on day 9 of the disease. With the diagnosis of severe COVID-19, treatment with remdesivir, dexamethasone, and unfractionated heparin was started for the prevention of thrombosis. Although the patient's respiratory status data improved after treatment, severe respiratory failure persisted. Thrombocytopenia and D-dimer elevation were observed on day 8 after heparin therapy initiation. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) antibody measured by immunological assay was positive, and contrast computed tomography showed pulmonary artery thrombus. The patient was diagnosed with HIT because the pre-test probability score (4Ts score) for HIT was 7 points. Heparin was changed to apixaban, a direct oral anticoagulant, which resulted in a reduction of the pulmonary thrombus and improvement of the respiratory failure. In patients with COVID-19, anticoagulant therapy with heparin requires careful monitoring of thrombocytopenia and elevated D-dimer as possible complications related to HIT. (151/250 words). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: As a new strategy for enhancing recovery after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, we developed a cell sheet wrapped graft using ACL-derived CD34+ cells. Our results from an ex vivo cell migration assay demonstrated gradual cell migration into the graft from the cell sheet, and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay indicated that the cell sheet cultures secreted a significantly greater amount of VEGF than typical monolayer cultures. In the in vivo study, the rats received one of three possible ACL reconstruction treatments; 1) a tendon graft wrapped in an ACL-derived CD34+ cell sheet, 2) a tendon graft and ACL-derived CD34+ cell injection, or 3) the control group that received just the tendon graft. The in vivo studies revealed that the ACL-derived CD34+ cell sheet wrapped grafts demonstrated a greater number of the cells derived from the cell sheets incorporated within the bone tunnel site and grafted tendon. We believe the incorporated CD34+ cells enhanced the healing of both the bone–tendon junction and the grafted tendon in the reconstructed rat ACLs by increasing proprioceptive recovery, graft maturation, and biomechanical strength. ACL-derived CD34+ cell sheet wrapped grafts could become a promising strategy to revitalize tendon autografts and recovery after ACL reconstruction resulting in superior and quicker recovery in patients requiring ACL reconstruction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Lower extremity alignment is very important after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This study aimed to compare the plantar pressure distribution while walking and the overall limb alignment, including the hindfoot, between kinematically (KA) and mechanically aligned (MA) TKA. The plantar pressure distribution was investigated using a pressure plate during walking and one-leg standing among four groups: patients one year after KA-TKA (KA group; n = 25), patients one year after MA-TKA (MA group, n = 25), patients with osteoarthritis (OA) undergoing non-surgical care (OA group, n = 25), and healthy controls (Healthy group; n = 25). Conventional and true mechanical axes (the line from the femoral head to the lowest point of the calcaneus) were evaluated on unipedal standing long-leg radiographs in the KA, MA, and OA groups. Results were compared using analysis of variance. The OA group showed a lateral loading pattern in the mid- and rearfoot, while the MA group showed a medial rearfoot loading pattern during walking. On the contrary, the KA and Healthy groups showed an almost equal pressure distribution between the medial and lateral rearfoot. Moreover, although both mechanical axes in the KA group passed through the knee more medially, a more neutral alignment was achieved in the true mechanical axis compared to that in the MA group. KA-TKA results in more neutral weight-bearing through the true mechanical axis and allows patients to walk while maintaining medial and lateral rearfoot pressure more evenly than MA-TKA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backgrounds: There are very few reports on pelvic movement during total hip arthroplasty (THA) in the supine position. We investigated intraoperative pelvic motion in the sagittal and axial planes to determine if preoperative clinical factors, including body mass index (BMI) affect intraoperative pelvic motion.Methods: Fifty-three patients with osteoarthritis undergoing THA in the supine position were included. Clinical factors, such as age, BMI, and pelvic tilt were assessed preoperatively. Intraoperative pelvic motion in the axial and sagittal planes was assessed using a portable navigation system. We assessed the change in pelvic tilt from registration to cup implantation as the pelvic tilt change; positive values indicated anterior pelvic tilt. We measured the values and absolute values of changes in axial rotation from registration to cup implantation to determine the axial rotation angle. The effects of patient factors on pelvic motion (pelvic tilt change and axial rotation angle) were analyzed using a Spearman's correlation analysis.Results: Preoperative pelvic tilt was negatively correlated with pelvic tilt change (r = -0.57, p < 0.05) and the absolute axial rotation angle (r = -0.57, p < 0.05). BMI and absolute axial rotation angle were negatively correlated (r = -0.54, p < 0.05). Age was not correlated with change in the pelvic tilt and the axial rotation angle.Conclusions: Preoperative pelvic tilt and BMI are important factors to determine intraoperative pelvic motion in patients who undergo THA in the supine position. This can help surgeons to preoperatively identify patients with a higher risk of intraoperative pelvic motion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to determine the appropriate administration duration of edoxaban 15 mg (a factor Xa inhibitor) for the prevention of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).Methods: Our study comprised 202 patients who underwent TKA (excluding bilateral TKA) at our institution between 2014 and 2015. The subjects received edoxaban 15 mg daily for 1 (n = 93) or 2 (n = 109) weeks; group assignment was random. B-mode ultrasonography was performed 7 and 14 days post-TKA for the detection of DVT. We compared the incidence of DVT between the groups and examined for side effects.Results: The demographic data of the patients in the 1- and 2-week administration groups were similar at baseline. DVT incidence did not differ significantly between the groups at 1 week post-TKA. However, it was significantly lower in the 2-week administration group (n = 0) than in the 1-week administration group (n = 7; p = 0.004) at 2 weeks post-DVT. Neither group exhibited symptomatic DVT. A total of six patients withdrew during the study period because of hepatic dysfunction.Conclusions: Our results show that the administration of edoxaban 15 mg is more effective in preventing DVT after TKA when administered for 2 weeks than for 1 week. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Summit cementless stem has been used as a device to occupy the proximal medullary canal space in total hip arthroplasty (THA). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the mid-term clinical and radiographic results of the Summit stem and the differences in the results as a function of medullary cavity shape.Methods: This study analyzed the 90 consecutive patients who underwent THA by using the Summit cementless stem. The minimum clinical and radiographic follow-up period for the patients was 5 years (mean, 5.5 years; range, 5.0-7.1 years). The radiographic and Harris hip scores (HHS) were evaluated across the three Dorr type classifications of femoral bone.Results: The postoperative HHSs were significantly higher than the preoperative HHS scores (p < 0.05). No significant differences in preoperative and postoperative HHSs were found among the three Dorr types. Stress shielding was observed in 58 hips. Spot welds and cortical hypertrophy were observed in various zones in 53 and 11 hips, respectively. No significant difference in the number of occurrences of cortical hypertrophy was found among the three Dorr types. However, the number of occurrences of severe stress shielding in Dorr type C was higher than that in Dorr type B. The number of occurrences of spot welds in Dorr type C was lower than that in both Dorr types A and B.Conclusions: Mid-term clinical results were good regardless of the medullary cavity shape. However, severe stress shielding in Dorr type C was more frequently than that in Dorr type B. Therefore, attention should be paid to the types of medullary cavity shapes for Summit stem use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]