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Background: We evaluated the reliability of intraoperative assessment of leukocyte esterase (LE) in synovial fluid samples from patients undergoing reimplantation following implant removal and spacer insertion for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). Our hypothesis was that a positive intraoperative LE test would be a better predictor of persistent infection than either serum C-reactive protein (CRP) or erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) or the combination of serum CRP and ESR. Methods: The records of 76 patients who received a 2-stage exchange for PJI were retrospectively reviewed. Synovial fluid was collected for LE measurement during surgery before arthrotomy in 79 procedures. Receiver operating characteristic curves were generated. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, accuracy, and area under the curve (AUC) of LE, CRP, ESR, and CRP + ESR were calculated. Results: Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of the LE assay were 82%, 99%, 90%, and 97%, respectively. Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed an LE threshold of 1.5 between the first (negative) and the second (positive) level of the ordinal variable, so that a grade starting from 1+ was accurate for a diagnosis of persistent infection (AUC 0.9044). The best thresholds for the CRP and the ESR assay were 8.25 mg/L (82% sensitivity, 84% specificity, AUC 0.8416) and 45 mm/h (55% sensitivity, 87% specificity, AUC 0.7493), respectively. Conclusion: The LE strip test proved a reliable tool to diagnose persistence of infection and outperformed the serum CRP and ESR assays. The strip test provides a valuable intraoperative diagnostic during second-stage revision for PJI.

Background Prosthetic joint infection (PJI) of the knee carries significant morbidity, mortality, and economic cost. We hypothesize that obese and poor medical hosts will have a significant and additive increase in failure rate undergoing 2-stage revision total knee arthroplasty for PJI. Methods All 2-stage revision total knee arthroplasty procedures for PJI performed at one institution were identified between 2005 and 2020. In total, 144 patients were included and defined as success or failure based on published criteria regarding infection eradication, further intervention, or mortality. The American Society of Anesthesiologists score and the Charlson Comorbidity Index were utilized to assess host grade. Patient, surgical, and microbiologic variables were investigated with univariable and multivariable analysis to explore association with risk of failure. Results In the cohort, 32.4% of patients failed with mean follow-up of 5.1 years. In multivariable analysis, the number of major operations requiring arthrotomy and implantation of new material between the primary and first stage, host grade, and elevated body mass index were the major contributors to failure. Combining these factors, with body mass index >30 and 2 or more major operations, the failure rate increased to 76.5% and 71.4% respectively for American Society of Anesthesiologists score 3 (P ≤ .001) and Charlson Comorbidity Index ≥2 (P ≤ .001). Conclusion In this cohort, multiple major operations between the primary and first stage, host grade, and obesity were the major contributors to failure. When combining these factors, patients had an additive increase in failure rate. Treatments such as amputation or less invasive options and suppression should be discussed and considered in these patients.

The administration of lithium chloride (LiCl) for cardiac output (CO) measurement via a peripheral instead of a central vein has been described previously as a valid alternative route in pigs and dogs. The aim of the study was to compare CO measurements after administration of LiCl using two peripheral veins, cephalic or jugular, in goats. Ten adult, female, experimental goats undergoing bilateral stifle arthrotomy were recruited for the study. Paired CO measurements were taken two minutes apart during stable conditions in isoflurane-anaesthetised goats. Forty-two paired CO measurements were taken in total, and the median (range) of paired CO measurement per goat were 4.5 (3–6). The mean (SD) CO using the cephalic and jugular vein for injection of LiCl was 5.28 (1.29) L min−1 and 5.20 (1.24) L min−1 respectively. The Bland-Altman analysis showed an acceptable agreement with a mean bias of 1.33% with limits of agreement (LoA) of −18.43 to 21.09%. The percentage of error was 25%. The four-quadrant plot analysis showed a poor agreement (71%) between the two routes. The polar plot showed a poor trending ability. An 86% inclusion rate (18/21 points) was reached with a ± 35° radial sector size. The findings revealed that the agreement between the two routes is not as precise as the authors expected, however the results are comparable with studies published previously.

Purpose To quantitatively compare the articular exposure of the proximal tibia with a lateral parapatellar arthrotomy through a straight midline incision (ML) versus a lateral submeniscal arthrotomy through a curvilinear anterolateral incision (AL). Methods Eight surgical approaches (4 ML and 4 AL) were performed on 4 fresh cadavers. Access to key articular landmarks was assessed, including divisions of the lateral meniscus, lateral tibial spine, and anterior cruciate ligament. The boundary of the exposed articular surface of the tibia was marked, and the proximal tibias were then stripped of soft tissues. A calibrated digital image was taken of each proximal tibia, and exposed articular surface area was calculated with ImageJ software (NIH, Bethesda, MD). Statistical analysis was performed using a two-sample t-test. Results Average articular surface area exposed was 2.2 times greater through the midline approach compared with the anterolateral approach (11.2 vs 5.1 cm2, p = 0.010). All key anatomic landmarks were directly visualized through the midline approach in each specimen. Complete visualization of the lateral meniscus posterior horn, lateral tibial spine, and anterior cruciate ligament was not accomplished through the anterolateral approach in any specimen. Conclusions The midline approach provides more extensive articular exposure of the lateral tibial plateau compared with the anterolateral approach. This improved exposure may offer an advantage when treating fractures not amenable to arthroscopic or minimally invasive techniques. It may be of most use when treating fractures with extension into the posteromedial quadrant of the lateral plateau, fractures with extensive comminution of the lateral plateau, or fractures with complex lateral meniscus tears and fractures with tibial spine involvement.

Controversy still exists regarding how to reduce and fix a displaced tibial avulsion fracture. Open reduction and internal fixation may lead to morbidity due to soft-tissue injury and arthrotomy. As a result, arthroscopic techniques are increasing in popularity. In the literature, sutures, K wires, and screws are suggested to be used as the fixation devices. Screws cannot be used in small or comminuted fractures, whereas K wires and sutures may not provide strong stability. Recently, with the advent of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene sutures like FiberWire, it has become possible to use it as the fixation device in even comminuted avulsion fractures with acceptable reduction stability. In this paper, we describe a simple arthroscopic technique using a FiberWire to manage the displaced tibial eminence avulsion fracture., Technique Video Video 1 Our arthroscopic technique for reduction and fixation of ACL avulsion fractures. The patient is in a supine position and his leg is hung from the edge of the table with a leg holder. The visual anterolateral and working anteromedial portal is applied. A cannula is used at the anteromedial portal to facilitate suture passage through the working portal. Two FiberWire sutures are inserted into the joint and tied at each ACL borders (lateral/medial) separately. Two tibial tunnels are drilled from the anteromedial side of the tibia toward the tibial plateau (proximal tunnel endings are set at the medial and lateral sides of the fractured fragment). The endings of the 2 FiberWire sutures are passed through the drilled tunnels and tied on the bone bridge between the 2 tibial tunnels (on a suture disc). (ACL, anterior cruciate ligament.)

Purpose: There were 10%–30% of patients with adult-onset septic arthritis (SA) exhibiting sterile synovial fluid (SF), and the uncertainty in the determining diagnosis of these patients posed a challenge in management. The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences between confirmed (Newman A) and suspected (Newman B & C) SA in adults. Methods: This was a descriptive study with a cross-sectional study design conducted at a tertiary referral centre from July 2016 to February 2019. Patients aged over 18 years presented to the emergency department with clinical features suggestive of SA and were scheduled to undergo arthrotomy and joint lavage by the treating surgeon were included in the study. Patients with prosthetic joint infections and open joint injuries were excluded. Patients’ demographic data, clinical features and laboratory parameters were collected. The clinical and laboratory profile (blood and SF) of the adult patients presenting with features suggestive of SA based on Newman criteria was statistically analyzed by SPSS version 20 software and Microsoft Excel. The categorical variables were expressed as proportions while the continuous variables were expressed as mean (SD) or median (IQR) depending upon the normality of distribution. The difference between the two groups for categorical variables was assessed using the Chi-square test and the difference for continuous variables was assessed using the unpaired t-test and the Mann-Whitney test depending upon normality. A p value

Purpose Synovial neoplasms that affect the small joints, such as the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), are uncommon.1 Of the neoplasms that affect the TMJ, pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS), synovial chondromatosis (SC), and juxta-articular myxoma are the most prevalent. To date, there have been only 115 and 360 reported cases of PVNS and SC of the TMJ in the literature, respectively.2 These lesions are locally destructive with the capacity to invade the cranial base and often demonstrate an inconspicuous growth pattern, a high degree of recurrence, and presentation that is confounded with other forms of temporomandibular joint disorder. TMJ arthroscopy has been established as a minimally invasive surgical modality to establish diagnosis and reduce patient morbidity. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the role and impact of TMJ arthroscopy in the early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and surveillance of PVNS and SC of the TMJ. Patients and methods This is a retrospective case series. Inclusion criteria were patients with synovial neoplasms: specifically, PVNS and SC at Massachusetts General Hospital. Exclusion criteria were patients with malignant tumors involving the TMJ and cranial base and tumors arising from extra-articular, non-synovial origin. Patients were categorized into 2 groups: Group I (who did not undergo early TMJ arthroscopy prior to lesion excision) and Group II (who did undergo early TMJ Level II [multi-port] arthroscopy prior to lesion excision). Pre-operative time to definitive lesion excision surgery, pre-operative biopsy status, extent of surgery (arthroscopic removal vs. open arthrotomy with or without craniotomy), and lesion recurrence were evaluated. Results A total of 6 patients were included in the present study (3 men and 3 women), all unilateral involvement for a total of 6 sides. The mean age was 31 (15-61). Patients were categorized into 2 groups: Group I-3 PVNS patients identified. All patients did not have a pre-operative biopsy prior to lesion excision. Mean pre-operative time duration to definitive lesion removal from initial presentation was 12 months. One isolated open arthrotomy and 2 open arthrotomy with craniotomy were required due to tumor growth and invasion of the middle cranial fossa. Recurrence of the lesion was present in 2 cases requiring repeat excision. Group II consisted of 3 patients: 2 PVNS (Figure 1) and 1 SC (Figure 2). All patients had pre-ablative biopsy diagnosis yielded from arthroscopic synovial biopsy. Mean pre-operative time duration to definitive lesion removal from initial presentation was 7 months. One PVNS case was excised arthroscopically. One isolated open arthrotomy and 1 open arthrotomy with craniotomy were required for definitive lesion excision. No lesion recurrence was noted, with 1 second-look arthroscopy conducted. Conclusion The results from the present study demonstrated that the early TMJ arthroscopy has efficacy in the early detection, diagnosis, and surveillance of synovial neoplasms PVNS and SC. Visualization and synovial biopsy of the lesion provide diagnostic and surgical planning benefit in conjunction with standard pre-operative workup. One lesion was arthroscopically removed. No recurrence has occurred, and TMJ arthroscopy proffers a minimally invasive means for disease surveillance if recurrence is suspected. Larger studies with continued follow-up are needed to further establish the algorithm established by this work to continue to minimize patient morbidity with lesion excision and reduce recurrence rates.

Resumen: Antecedentes y objetivo: El 40-50% de estas artritis sépticas se producen en la rodilla, y a pesar del rápido tratamiento médico-quirúrgico, del 24 al 50% van a acabar en un pobre resultado clínico. No está claro qué técnica de desbridamiento por artrotomía o por artroscopia es más eficaz para el control de la infección, ni si la artrosis previa empeora o no el resultado. El objetivo de este estudio en artritis séptica de rodilla artrósica es analizar qué técnica de desbridamiento quirúrgico, artroscopia o artrotomía, es más eficaz, cuál es la evolución clínica y radiográfica de los pacientes y cuántos van a necesitar la implantación de una PTR tras la curación de la infección. Material y método: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo en 27 pacientes con artritis séptica nativa de rodilla. Dieciocho eran hombres y la edad media fue de 64,8 años (30-89 años). Quince pacientes fueron desbridados por artrotomía y 12 por artroscopia. Se analizó la eficacia del desbridamiento para el control de la infección, la progresión radiográfica de la artrosis en la escala de Ahlbäch, la necesidad de protetización posterior y el dolor y el estado funcional mediante la escala EVA y WOMAC a los 52,8 ± 11,2 meses de evolución. Resultados: El 93 y el 92% de los pacientes controlaron la infección, el 13 y el 42% requirieron dos o más cirugías para el control de la infección, y el 18 y el 44,4% mostraron progresión de la artrosis en el grupo artrotomía y artroscopia, respectivamente. Un paciente de cada grupo requirió que se le implantara una prótesis de rodilla. La escala EVA fue superior en el grupo artrotomía y no hubo diferencias en la escala de WOMAC. Conclusión: El desbridamiento por artrotomía en el área de urgencias por cirujanos no subespecializados en rodilla es más eficaz que el artroscópico para controlar la artritis séptica de rodilla. El desbridamiento quirúrgico de las artritis sépticas en rodillas con artrosis previa permite controlar la infección con ausencia de dolor a pesar de la progresión de la artrosis. Abstract: Background and objective: 40%-50% of this septic arthritis occurs in the knee, despite rapid medical surgical treatment, 24%-50% will have a poor clinical outcome. It is not clear which debridement technique, by arthrotomy or arthroscopy, is more effective in controlling infection, or whether or not previous osteoarthritis worsens the outcome. The objective of this study on septic arthritis of the osteoarthritic knee was to analyse which surgical debridement technique, arthroscopy or arthrotomy, is more effective, the clinical and radiographic outcomes of the patients, and how many go on to require a TKR after the infection has healed. Material and methods: A retrospective study was performed in 27 patients with native septic arthritis of the knee. Eighteen were men and the mean age was 64.8 years (30-89 years). Fifteen patients were debrided by arthrotomy and 12 by arthroscopy. The effectiveness of debridement in controlling infection, the radiographic progression of the osteoarthritis on the Ahlbäch scale, the need for subsequent replacement, and pain and functional status were analysed using the VAS and WOMAC scales at 52.8 ± 11.2-month follow-up. Results: The infection was controlled in 93% and 92% of the patients, 13% and 42% required 2 or more surgeries for infection control, 18% and 44.4% showed progression of arthritis in the arthrotomy and arthroscopy groups, respectively. One patient in each group required a knee replacement. The VAS score was superior in the arthrotomy group and there were no differences in WOMAC score. Conclusion: Debridement by arthrotomy in the emergency department by non-sub-specialist knee surgeons is more effective than arthroscopic debridement in controlling septic arthritis of the knee. Surgical debridement of septic arthritis in knees with previous osteoarthritis enabled control of the infection with no pain despite the progression of the osteoarthritis.

Background and objective 40%–50% of this septic arthritis occurs in the knee, despite rapid medical surgical treatment, 24%–50% will have a poor clinical outcome. It is not clear which debridement technique, by arthrotomy or arthroscopy, is more effective in controlling infection, or whether or not previous osteoarthritis worsens the outcome. The objective of this study on septic arthritis of the osteoarthritic knee was to analyse which surgical debridement technique, arthroscopy or arthrotomy, is more effective, the clinical and radiographic outcomes of the patients, and how many go on to require a TKR after the infection has healed. Methods A retrospective study was performed in 27 patients with native septic arthritis of the knee. Eighteen were men and the mean age was 64.8 years (30–89 years). Fifteen patients were debrided by arthrotomy and 12 by arthroscopy. The effectiveness of debridement in controlling infection, the radiographic progression of the osteoarthritis on the Ahlbach scale, the need for subsequent replacement, and pain and functional status were analysed using the VAS and WOMAC scales at 52.8 ± 11.2-month follow-up. Results The infection was controlled in 93% and 92% of the patients, 13% and 42% required 2 or more surgeries for infection control, 18% and 44.4% showed progression of arthritis in the arthrotomy and arthroscopy groups, respectively. One patient in each group required a knee replacement. The VAS score was superior in the arthrotomy group and there were no differences in WOMAC score. Conclusion Debridement by arthrotomy in the emergency department by non-sub-specialist knee surgeons is more effective than arthroscopic debridement in controlling septic arthritis of the knee. Surgical debridement of septic arthritis in knees with previous osteoarthritis enabled control of the infection with no pain despite the progression of the osteoarthritis.

Introduction Septic arthritis is a rapid and progressive infection caused by invasion of bacteria into the synovial joint. Disease of the joint causedby Salmonella spp in healthy children is an unusual event, with an estimated incidence of 0.1 to 0.2% of septic arthritis cases among children. The incidence of knee septic arthritis caused by Salmonella typhi with preexisting typhoid fever is very rare. Method We reported a case of 2-years old boy with a history of saddle-type fever 2 weeks prior to right knee pain. Typhoid fever was confirmed by immunoassay test. Knee septic arthritis was established from clinical findings, increased CRP level, ultrasonography, and joint aspiration. Culture of the aspirate subsequently grew Salmonella typhi. This case report had been reported in line with SCARE criteria. Result Arthrotomy and debridement were immediately performed.Intravenous piperacillin tazobactam was given for 6 days and replaced by amoxicillin clavulanic acid after the culture and sensitivity test was available. Patient recovered completely 5 months post surgery and showed excellence result with normal range of knee joint motion. Conclusion This case report suggests that any episode of joint swelling following preexisting typhoid fever should arise the physician’s awareness toward the possibility of septic arthritis and warrant immediate as well as proper management.

Joint pain is a major cause of lameness in animals such as horses and dogs, and it may affect their athletic performance and quality of life. The intra-articular administration of analgesic/antinflammatory drugs is a common practice in veterinary medicine, for both lameness diagnosis and joint pain management. It is used either perioperatively, such as in animals undergoing arthroscopy/arthrotomy, and in osteoarthritic animals. However, evidence regarding efficacy and safety of each drug is limited, and controversies persist in these areas. In particular, it is often uncertain whether a defined treatment is effective by simply relieving the symptomatic pain associated with the joint disease, or whether it has a positive effect on the joint environment. Moreover, there is still much hesitation about treatments for joint diseases, related to the time of their application for the best outcome, and to any possible deleterious side effects. This article includes a review of the literature concerning the main analgesic/antinflammatory drugs used intra-articularly for managing acute and chronic joint pain/inflammation in dogs and horses. Three main issues for each class of drugs are considered, including clinical efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and local cytotoxic effects.

Background Patellofemoral arthroplasty (PFA) is an emerging treatment for patients with isolated patellofemoral compartment osteoarthritis. The medial parapatellar approach is the standard arthrotomy but has been shown in total knee arthroplasty to damage the patellar blood supply and increase postoperative patellar instability. The lateral parapatellar approach is an alternative that may reduce the risk of these outcomes. The purpose of this study is to compare the radiographic measures of patellar tracking and patient-reported outcomes of the medial and lateral parapatellar approaches in PFA. Methods Between 2012 and 2019, a retrospective review was performed of 136 knees undergoing PFA at a single institution. Patients were separated by preoperative congruence angle and then surgical approach into 3 cohorts. Preoperative and postoperative patellar tilt and congruence angle were measured. Preoperative and minimum 6-month postoperative patient-reported outcomes scores were collected. Results There were no significant differences in the mean postoperative congruence angle and postoperative patient-reported outcomes among the 3 cohorts. Mean postoperative patellar tilt was normalized only in the abnormal congruence angle/lateral approach group to 2.80° (standard error, 1.85). Conclusion Congruence angle was improved regardless of surgical approach. Patellar tilt was normalized only for the lateral approach in patients with abnormal preoperative congruence angle. There were no significant differences in preoperative and postoperative scores between groups except for preoperative 12-item Short Form Mental Health Survey scores. This study supports that the lateral approach offers improved postoperative patellar tilt compared to a medial approach for PFA while achieving similar patient-reported outcomes.

Background Next-generation sequencing (NGS) offers improved sensitivity compared to culture-based methods for identifying organisms from synovial joints. It remains unclear whether native microorganisms exist in a joint, and positive NGS results may be interpreted as pathologic when in fact they may represent this native microbiome. The purpose of this study was to characterize the native knee microorganism profile in patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Methods Forty consecutive patients with osteoarthritis undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty were enrolled prospectively. During TKA surgery but prior to arthrotomy, the native knee was aspirated and the fluid was sent for NGS analysis. Immediately after arthrotomy, four separate tissue samples were also sent for NGS analysis. All microbes identified by NGS were recorded. Results Twelve out of forty patients (30%) had at least one positive organism identified by NGS from their native knee. Of those with positive NGS results, 9/12 (75%) had more than one organism identified (range two to 11). There were no significant differences in demographics, comorbidities, or incidence of prior knee injections between the two groups. There were 48 unique organisms identified from all patients, and the average number of organisms identified by NGS was 4.6 per patient. Four sterile water controls were all negative for organisms. Conclusion A proportion of patients with osteoarthritis undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty have organisms identified in their joint by NGS at the time of surgery. Organisms identified after TKA by NGS when concern for periprosthetic joint infection exists may represent the native microbiome rather than pathogenic microbes.

Hypothesis This study aimed to determine whether there are significant differences in 30-day perioperative complications between arthroscopic and open debridement (irrigation and debridement [I&D]) for septic arthritis (SA) of the shoulder using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Methods Patients undergoing arthroscopic or open I&D of the native shoulder from 2006-2016 were identified in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Those with a diagnosis of SA were included in the study. Patients with a concurrent diagnosis of osteomyelitis around shoulder (n = 25) or polyarthritis (n = 2) were excluded from the study. Patient demographics, comorbidities, and complications were compared between the groups. Poisson regression, which controlled for age and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, was used to calculate the relative risks with 95% confidence intervals for minor adverse events, serious adverse events, total adverse events, and unplanned reoperations between the 2 treatment groups, with significance set at P Results Overall, 147 and 57 patients underwent arthroscopic and open I&D, respectively, for SA of the shoulder. Patients in the open I&D group were more likely to be smokers (P = .0213), whereas patients in the arthroscopy group had higher ASA scores (P = .0008). After controlling for age and ASA score, we found no significant differences in the risk of minor adverse events (P = .0995), serious adverse events (P = .2241), total adverse events (P = .1871), or unplanned reoperations (P = .3855). Conclusion Arthroscopic debridement appears to be a safe alternative to open debridement for SA of the native shoulder. The incidence and risk of 30-day perioperative complications are similar after arthroscopic and open I&D for SA of the shoulder.

Purpose To compare postoperative pain scores and opioid use between patients undergoing a standard arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) using hamstring autograft with those undergoing a suture repair augmented with an extracellular matrix scaffold (bridge-enhanced ACL repair) performed through an arthrotomy and to determine factors predictive of postoperative opioid use and levels of overprescription. Methods A nonrandomized controlled trial was conducted with 20 patients (10 ACLR, 10 bridge-enhanced ACL repair), aged 18 to 35 years. All surgeries were performed by a single surgeon. A pain medication log was provided to patients on discharge. No regional anesthesia was performed. Pain scores via a visual analog pain scale were recorded at each visit. Correlations between preoperative and intraoperative characteristics and postoperative opioid use were determined. Results The total morphine-equivalent dose ranged from 30 to 309 mg (4-42 pills oxycodone) for the ACLR group and 75 to 254 mg (10-34 pills oxycodone) for the bridge-enhanced ACL repair group. The average opioid use per day was 35.8 mg for the patients undergoing bridge-enhanced ACL repair and 44.2 mg for patients undergoing ACLR (P = .29). Pain scores at time points up to 2 years postoperatively were not significantly different between the 2 groups. Across both groups, the average oversupply of oxycodone was 46 pills per patient, a greater than 70% unused opiate rate. Preoperative body mass index and preoperative Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores pain score were predictive of greater postoperative opioid use per day, whereas age, concurrent meniscal repair, and operative time were not. Conclusions Total overall opiate intake was not different between the patients undergoing bridge-enhanced ACL repair through an arthrotomy and those undergoing arthroscopic ACLR. Both groups had similar pain scores from 2 weeks to 2 years postoperatively. Greater body mass index and greater preoperative pain (lower Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores pain score) correlated with greater postoperative opioid use per day. There was an overprescription of opioids across all patients. Level of Evidence Level III, case control study (therapeutic).

Background No randomized controlled trial has investigated a more optimal timing of periarticular injection for pain relief after total hip arthroplasty. Methods The study included 140 patients, and these patients were randomly allocated to the early-stage (periarticular injection was performed just before arthrotomy, and placebo was injected after implantation) or late-stage (placebo was injected just before arthrotomy, and periarticular injection was performed after implantation) injection groups. Other perioperative interventions were similar in all participants. The prespecified primary outcome was postoperative pain score at the recovery room. Results The visual analog scale score at the recovery room of the early-stage injection group was significantly lower than that of the late-stage injection group (30 ± 28 vs 46 ± 30 mm; 95% CI, −25 to −5 mm; P = .0022), and this difference reaches a minimal clinically important difference level of 10 mm. No differences were observed with regard to complication rate. Conclusion Early-stage periarticular injection during total hip arthroplasty provided better postoperative pain relief than late-stage periarticular injection without elevating complication rate. Level of Evidence Level I, randomized controlled trial.

Background Limited studies have been conducted to determine the minimum amount and sensitivity of the saline load test of the ankle. Prior studies, only performed in arthroscopic models, have suggested a wide range of volumes necessary to confirm arthrotomy. The purpose of this study was to investigate the amount of fluid required and the sensitivity of the saline load test to identify an intra-articular arthrotomy of the ankle. Using cadavers without prior ankle trauma or surgeries we aim to assess volume needed to detect ankle arthrotomies at varying arthrotomy locations. We hypothesized that the volume needed would vary based on site of arthrotomy. Methods Twenty thawed, fresh-frozen below knee cadavers were divided into four groups based on arthrotomy location. An ankle arthrotomy was made using a 4 mm trochar at the four standard ankle portal sites; anteromedial, anterolateral, posteromedial, and posterolateral. To confirm intra-articular location, a arthroscope was inserted for direct visualization of the ankle joint. An 18-gauge needle was then inserted into the ankle joint, and saline mixed with methylene blue was injected. During the injection, the known arthrotomy site was viewed for extravasation. Amount of saline required to diagnose arthrotomy was recorded. All injections were confirmed as intra-articular by demonstrating methylene blue staining of the anterior joint. Results The saline volume required to achieve extravasation ranged from 3 mL to 11 mL. The mean saline volume required to achieve extravasation was 5.3 mL. A total of 8 mL was required to achieve 90% sensitivity, 10 mL for 95% sensitivity and 11 mL for 99% sensitivity. For the anterolateral, anteromedial, posteromedial, and posterolateral arthrotomy sites the mean saline volume needed to detect a traumatic arthrotomy was 5.2 mL, 6.2 mL, 5 mL, and 4.8 mL respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in volume needed to detect arthrotomies across all four locations (p = 0.69). Conclusion In this cadaveric model, an injection of 10 mL identified 95% of arthrotomies approximately 4 mm in size. No difference in volume needed to detect extravasation was found across all four arthrotomy locations. Prior studies performed in arthroscopic models with patients undergoing ankle arthroscopy may overestimate volume needed to detect arthrotomies. Level of evidence V

Septic Arthritis of the wrist is rare in the paediatric population due to its extraarticular metaphysis. We report here a case of wrist septic arthritis in a neonate caused by an uncommon causative organism, Streptococcus cristatus. A 15 days old male child was referred with the complaint of swelling and decreased movement of the left wrist for 5 days. Local examination revealed warm, tender, erythematous and fluctuant swelling over the dorso-ulnar aspect of the left wrist. Ultrasonography of the affected region was suggestive of focal fluid collection in the wrist and periosteal elevation of the distal ulna. Aspiration followed by arthrotomy of the wrist joint was performed and multiple holes were made in the distal ulnar metaphysis using 0.8mm k-wire. The pus culture was positive for Streptococcus cristatus, sensitive to vancomycin, which was given for a total of 4 weeks. At one year follow up the child had a full, painless range of motion with no functional deficit. Final follow up x rays of the left wrist were normal. Streptococcus cristatus strains are described as Gram-positive, catalase-negative cocci, approximately 1 μm in diameter growing in chains and were originally isolated from the human throat and oral cavities. Its association with bone and joint infections has not been described in the literature. To our knowledge, this is the first case of isolated septic arthritis of wrist in a 15 days old child caused by Streptococcus cristatus. To conclude, wrist septic arthritis in a neonate is a rare entity. With the advanced diagnostics, species-level identification of rare organism like Streptococcus cristatus is possible along with antibiotic sensitivity for appropriate therapy. Early surgical decompression and intravenous culture-directed antibiotics are the mainstays of management.

Background Considerable practice variability exists among orthopedic surgeons performing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The purpose of this study is to understand what TKA surgical and perioperative techniques are standard among high-volume academic knee arthroplasty surgeons. Methods A written survey with 59 questions regarding management preferences in TKA was distributed by the 2018 John N. Insall Traveling Fellows to all arthroplasty-trained attending physicians at 13 medical centers, with 45 responses recorded. Results Surveyed surgeons performed unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (88%) and bilateral TKA (87%). Most surveyed surgeons rarely or never performed outpatient primary TKA (71%). Conventional alignment guides and cemented implants were used by 80% of respondents. Most surgeons used posterior-stabilized implants (67%), followed by cruciate-retaining (20%), ultracongruent (20%), and medial congruent or medial pivot designs (17.8%). Surveyed surgeons frequently or always resurfaced the patella (73%), used a tourniquet for the entire case (73%), and used tranexamic acid for all TKAs (91%). The most common locations for intra-articular anesthetic injection were the arthrotomy (91%), the periosteum (84%), and the medial posterior capsule (82%). Saline (62%) and dilute iodine (47%) were the most common irrigation fluids. The arthrotomy was most commonly closed with running barbed suture (60%) followed by interrupted vicryl (40%). Skin closure was predominantly with running monocryl (60%) followed by staples (29%). Anticoagulation for TKA was primarily aspirin 81 mg BID (60%). Conclusion There was considerable variability among surgeons polled although a strong preference for more conventional and less developmental techniques prevailed.

Highlights • Both arthrotomy debridement only or followed by total hip replacement could be an option in treating synovial chondromatosis of the hip. • Both treatment option shows a successful outcome by HHS and LEFS questionnaires without any recurrence marks. • Grade of osteoarthritis and patient age can be a distinguish factor for choosing a treatment option., Introduction Synovial chondromatosis is an unusual nonneoplastic condition of joints. Clinical symptoms usually insidious, and the patient often came in the late stage of the disease. Treatment generally include arthroscopy debridement, open arthrotomy debridement to evacuate loose bodies, or in a very late stage with a collapsing joint, it might need a joint replacement arthroplasty. Methods We report two cases of a 55-year old and a 22-year-old man with synovial chondromatosis of the hip. Both patients came with hip pain, but the former presents at a late stage with osteoarthritis of the hip. The former underwent open arthrotomy debridement to evacuate loose bodies, synovectomy then followed by a total hip replacement. The latter underwent open arthrotomy debridement only to evacuate loose bodies and synovectomy without performing dislocation of the hip. Postoperative outcome was evaluated using plain hip x-ray, pain scale with VAS, and functional score with Harris Hip Score (HHS). Results At 1-year follow up, both subjects demonstrate an improving functional outcome. The former patient had an improved HHS from 39 to 91 while the latter had an improved HHS from 68 to 93. With complete removal of the metaplastic tissue and synovectomy, the recurrence of the chondromatosis is not apparent yet until now. Discussion Arthrotomy debridement only or arthrotomy debridement followed by total hip replacement can be considered as an option in treating synovial chondromatosis of the hip as both show a successful outcome. A selective method of treatment must be considered in our decision making for each individual.

Bennett lesions, also known as “thrower's exostosis” of the shoulder, involve ossification of the posteroinferior glenoid and are not uncommon in overhead throwing athletes. The literature surrounding the optimal operative management of the symptomatic Bennett lesion is limited. The purpose of this article is to describe the arthroscopic surgical technique for the visualization and excision of the symptomatic extra-articular pathologic ossification involving the posteroinferior glenoid. Because many surgeons may not be familiar with this problem or procedure, we present a straightforward method that allows for identification and excision of the exostosis through an arthroscopic posterior arthrotomy.

Purpose To determine whether debris from a silicone core suture has an observable intra-articular or extra-articular impact or can be shown to migrate into the lymphatic system. Methods Using a porcine stifle joint model, 2 study groups were created: 1 group used silicone-suture particles created by rupturing hand-tied knots of a nonabsorbable suture with an outer sheath of ultrahigh molecular-weight polyethylene, an inner polyester sheath and a medical-grade silicone/sodium chloride-filled core. The second group used a mixture of 3 vitreous carbon particles sizes. Twelve Yorkshire pigs were randomly assigned to each group. Only 1 type of study particle was used in a single animal to avoid cross-contamination. Half of the study materials were placed by arthrotomy into the joint and, after capsular closure, the remaining half were placed on the joint capsule before skin closure. Six weeks postimplantation, the stifle joints and regional lymph nodes were examined macroscopically and microscopically. The extracapsular and intra-articular tissue and the lymph nodes were examined. Results Macroscopically, none of the 12 silicone-suture particle group limbs had abnormal macroscopic observations. Of the 12 limbs in the carbon particle group, 8 demonstrated discoloration in the extracapsular, intra-articular and lymph node tissues; 6 limbs demonstrated joint discoloration (extracapsular and intra-articular). The silicone-suture particle group showed lymph node inflammation in 25% of the iliac lymph nodes and 42% of the inguinal lymph nodes but none in the popliteal lymph nodes. In the carbon particle group, 100% of the iliac lymph nodes, 75% of the inguinal lymph nodes and 8% of the popliteal nodes showed inflammation. No silicone-suture debris migration was observed microscopically. Visible carbon particle migration was present in 100% of the iliac lymph nodes and in 50% of the inguinal lymph nodes but in none (0) of the popliteal lymph nodes. The carbon particle group also showed inflammation in these areas. Conclusions Carbon particles in the porcine knee migrated into the lymph nodes (iliac 100%; inguinal 50%, popliteal 0); gross discoloration was observed in 8 of 12 specimens. Silicone-suture particles could not be found in the lymph nodes, and no macroscopic joint damage was observed. Clinical Relevance The clinical use of a suture containing a silicone/salt central core is common, and the porcine lymphatic model suggests that this type of suture material does not result in clinically significant silicone particulates.

Objective To determine clinical profile of osteoarticular tuberculosis (TB) in children. Methods Cross-sectional analysis from 2007 to 2013. All patients diagnosed with bone TB, spinal TB or TB abscesses were included. Results Out of 1318 children with TB, 39 (2.96%) had osteoarticular TB, of which 16 (42%) had osteomyelitis, 8 (20.5%) had spinal involvement, 7 (17.9%) had TB synovitis, 2 (5.1%) had psoas abscess and 6 (15.4%) had abscesses. The mean age of presentation was 7.1 ± 3.5 years (range 2–14 years). Of the 33 cases in which a culture was done, 25 (64%) showed a positive culture. Drug sensitivity tests were done in 21 patients of which 10 (47.6%) tested were drug resistant, of which 4 (36.4%) were multidrug resistant (MDR), 2 (18.2%) were extensively drug resistant (XDR), 3 were pre-XDR (27.3%) and 1 was polyresistant (9.1%). Nine (23.1%) patients had TB in the past with a treatment duration of 8.3 ± 5.3 months. Contact with a TB patient had occurred in 10 (25.6%) cases. Associated pulmonary TB were seen in 6 (15.39%) and TB meningitis were seen in 1 (2.6%) patients. Surgical intervention was needed in 11 (28.2%) patients of which 5 (45.5%) underwent curettage, drainage was done in 1 (9.1%), arthrotomy in 4 (36.4%) and spinal surgery in 1 (9.1%) patient. Conclusion Drug resistant osteoarticular TB is an emerging problem in children.

Importance Septic arthritis of the native knee joint is the most common bacterial joint infection. The management involves prompt surgical debridement and joint irrigation by arthroscopy or arthrotomy. This is the first systematic review and meta-analysis to compare arthroscopic debridement with arthrotomy for septic arthritis of native knee joint. Objective The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to compare re-operation rates, length of inpatient hospital stay (LOS) and functional outcome between arthroscopy and arthrotomy in the treatment of acute septic arthritis of the native knee joint. Evidence review This study was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched from database inception to 31 May 2019. All original studies that compared re-operation rates and LOS between arthroscopy and arthrotomy for septic arthritis of knee were included. The research question and eligibility criteria were established a priori. Pertinent data were extracted and random-effects model was used to pool the data where possible. Findings A total of seven studies with 1089 knees were included, of which 723 underwent arthroscopic surgery and 366 knees underwent arthrotomy. The relative risk of re-operation was significantly lower in the arthroscopy group with a pooled relative risk of 0.69 (95% CI 0.56 to 0.86; p=0.0006). All studies reported shorter LOS and one study reported better functional outcomes in the arthroscopy group as compared with arthrotomy. However, the data could not be quantitatively synthesised due to variation in reporting among the studies included. Conclusions and relevance Based on the available evidence, we conclude that arthroscopy for the treatment of septic arthritis of the knee results in a lower re-operation rate than arthrotomy. It cannot be concluded whether arthroscopic treatment results in shorter LOS or better functional outcome as compared with arthrotomy. Level of evidence IV

Background Traumatic arthrotomy of the knee (TAK) involves the violation of the knee capsule. TAK differs from simple lacerations because it requires operative management to prevent resultant septic arthritis. The diagnostic test of choice in the emergency department is the saline load test (SLT). SLT sensitivity ranges from 34% to 99%, depending on volume used. Computed tomography (CT) is a possible alternative, using intra-articular air as a diagnostic marker. Ultrasound can identify air in various tissues, given its highly echogenic nature. Objective We sought to determine the sensitivity and specificity of ultrasound for detecting intra-articular air in cadaveric knee joints. Methods Soft embalmed cadavers were utilized. The knees were block randomized to having 1 mL of air injected into the joint or sham skin injection. Two blinded, expert operators scanned the knees with a high-frequency linear transducer. The sensitivity and specificity were calculated. Results Twenty knees were included. Knees that had any prior dissection were excluded from analysis. Ten knees were randomized for air injection. The pooled sensitivity was 0.65 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.41–0.85) with a specificity of 0.75 (95% CI 0.48–0.93). Mean time taken was 143 s. Conclusions Ultrasound may have utility in evaluation of TAK. There were limitations. Some knees had effusions with echogenic material present, which could have led to false-positive results. It is also unknown how much air is typical of TAK. One milliliter was used based on previous work with CT. The use of ultrasound for diagnosis of TAK warrants further study.

Background Prosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a rare (incidence, 0.15% to 0.9%) but serious complication of knee arthroplasty. Haematogenous PJI of the knee (KhPJI) which accounts for 10% of cases, has been less studied than PJI due to other mechanisms. The primary objective of this study in patients with KhPJI of the knee was to determine the 2-year infection eradication failure rate after either exchange arthroplasty or arthrotomy/synovectomy/irrigation (ASI), combined with prolonged peri-operative antibiotic therapy, at a referral centre for complex osteo-articular infections. Hypothesis ASI within 2 weeks after symptom onset and one-stage exchange arthroplasty produce similar 2-year success rates in patients with KhPJI of the knee. Material and Methods A prospective observational cohort study was performed in patients managed for PJI of the knee between 2003 and 2015. The primary outcome measure was the occurrence of a septic event or of KhPJI -related death during a minimum follow-up of 2 years. Results Of 265 patients with PJI after total knee arthroplasty, 58 (22.1%) had KhPJI with onset more than 3 months after the last arthroplasty procedure and were included in the study. Among them, one-third had immune deficiencies. The most common causative organisms were streptococci (n = 25, 43%) and Staphylococcus aureus (n = 20, 34%). The primary focus of infection was identified in only 64% of patients and was most often cutaneous (n = 19, 33%) or dental (n = 11, 19%). A septic event or KhPJI-related death occurred in 5/34 (15%) patients after one-stage exchange arthroplasty and 6/19 (32%) patients after ASI within 15 days after symptom onset (p = 0.03). Patient characteristics, type of prosthesis, and causative organism were not significantly associated with failure to eradicate the infection. Conclusion ASI carried a high failure rate despite being performed within 15 days after symptom onset. One-stage exchange arthroplasty seems to be the best surgical option, particularly as the exact time of symptom onset may be difficult to determine. Identifying and eradicating the primary focus of infection is crucial. Level of evidence II, low-powered prospective cohort study.

Preoperative planning is a fundamental element in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). A previous surgery that must be recognized and identified preoperatively is the Hauser procedure, a posteromedialization of the tibial tubercle for recurrent patellar instability. Here, we describe 2 case reports in patients with previous Hauser surgeries. The first TKA surgery was complicated from a standard medial peripatellar approach resulting in complete transection of the patellar tendon during standard arthrotomy. The tendon was repaired, and the arthroplasty was aborted. For the second case, correct preoperative identification of the Hauser procedure was performed. The second TKA surgery was performed using a lateral peripatellar arthrotomy with excellent exposure, resulting in a successful operation. Here, we highlight the importance of an accurate history, physical and radiographic examination, and the recommendation of an alternative TKA approach to help avoid the serious intraoperative complication of a patellar tendon laceration. Keywords: Hauser procedure, Patellar tendon disruption, Extensor mechanism disruption, Lateral parapatellar approach, Total knee arthroplasty

Septic arthritis of the acromioclavicular joint is a rare entity: only 30 cases have been reported in the literature since 1985. We present the case of a 53-year-old diabetic male, with septic arthritis of one acromioclavicular joint due to Streptococcus agalactiae. Current condition characterised by neck pain, limited movement of the right shoulder; hyperthermia, hyperaemia and increased volume in the acromioclavicular joint. Upon physical examination, increased volume was found from the proximal third of the deltoid to the middle third of the clavicle, pain on palpation, localised hyperthermia, limited range of motion. X-ray with enlargement of soft tissues, presence of subcutaneous gas and increased space in the acromioclavicular joint compared with the contralateral. Ceftriaxone and Clindamycin were administered at therapeutic doses and an acromioclavicular arthrotomy was performed, obtaining 10 ml of purulent material from the sub-deltoid and 2 ml from the joint. Five days later, Streptococcus agalactiae was reported. Clinical improvement was observed and it was decided to discharge the patient. Resumen: La artritis séptica acromioclavicular (ASAC) es una entidad poco frecuente, desde 1985 se han reportado 30 casos en la literatura. Se presenta el caso de un paciente masculino, diabético, de 53 años, con ASAC monoarticular por Streptococcus agalactie. Padecimiento actual caracterizado por dolor en cuello, limitación al movimiento de hombro derecho, hipertermia, hiperemia y aumento de volumen en articulación acromioclavicular. A la exploración física, con aumento de volumen en tercio proximal de deltoides hasta tercio medio de clavícula, dolor a la palpación, hipertermia localizada, arcos de movilidad limitados. Rx con aumento de partes blandas, presencia de gas subcutáneo y aumento de espacio articular acromioclavicular en comparación con la contralateral. Se administra Ceftriaxona y Clindamicina a dosis terapéuticas y se realiza artrotomia acromioclavicular derecha, se obtiene 10cc de material purulento subdeltoideo y 2cc articular. Se reporta al 5° día Streptococcus agalactie. Presenta mejoría clínica y se decide egreso. Keywords: Septic arthritis, Acromioclavicular joint, Streptococcus agalactiae, Palabras clave: Artritis séptica, Articulación acromioclavicular, Streptococcus agalactie

Wound closure is an important, often under emphasized, step in total joint arthroplasty. Meticulous, evidence based, surgical technique is critical for optimizing postoperative function and preventing wound complications. Robust, anatomic closure of the joint capsule in total hip arthroplasty via the posterior approach is essential. Closure of the arthrotomy in total knee arthroplasty in flexion may improve postoperative range of motion, and the use of barbed suture improves efficiency and may lead to cost savings. Skin closure with running subcuticular monofilament suture with topical skin adhesives improves peri-incisional blood flow and decreases postoperative wound drainage.

Purpose The purpose of the current study was to use the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) to determine whether there were differences in 30-day perioperative complications between open arthrotomy and arthroscopy for the treatment of septic knees in a large national sample. Methods Patients who were diagnosed with a septic knee and underwent open arthrotomy or arthroscopy were identified in the 2005-2014 NSQIP data sets. Patient demographics and perioperative complications were characterized and compared between the 2 procedures. Results In total, 168 patients undergoing knee arthrotomy and 216 patients undergoing knee arthroscopy for septic knee were identified. There were no statistically significant differences in demographic variables between the 2 groups. On univariate analysis, the rate of minor adverse events (MAEs; 15.48% vs 8.80%, P = .043) was higher in the open arthrotomy treatment group, while the rate of serious adverse events (SAEs; 37.50% vs 26.19%, P = .019) was higher in the arthroscopic surgery treatment group. On multivariate analysis, which controlled for patient characteristics/comorbidities and used the Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons, there were no statistically significant differences in risk of any adverse events (relative risk [RR] = 0.851; 99% confidence interval [CI], 0.598-1.211; P = .240), MAE (RR = 1.653; 99% CI, 0.818-3.341; P = .066), SAE (RR = 0.706; 99% CI, 0.471-1.058; P = .027), return to the operating room (RR = 0.810; 99% CI, 0.433-1.516; P = .387), or readmission (RR = 1.022; 99% CI, 0.456-2.294; P = .944) between open compared with arthroscopic surgery. Conclusions Univariate analysis revealed a lower rate of MAE but a higher rate of SAE in the arthroscopic surgery treatment group. However, on multivariate analysis, similar perioperative complications, rate of return to the operating room, and rate of readmission were found after open and arthroscopic debridement for septic knees. Based on the lack of demonstrated superiority of either of these 2 treatment modalities for this given diagnosis, and the expectation that most differences in perioperative complications for this diagnosis would have declared themselves within the first 30 days, deciding between the studied treatment modalities may be based more on other factors not included in this study. Level of Evidence Retrospective comparative study, Level III.

Introduction and importance The Patella is very rare site for tuberculosis (TB). The knee is the third most common site for skeletal TB. The incidence of patella TB being 0.09 to 0.15%. Case presentation We report a case of primary tuberculous osteitis isolated from the patella. The complaint was a mixed knee pain without notion of trauma. The CT showed a large osteolysis of the upper half of the patella. The diagnosis was established on the histological study after biopsy. The patient was operated by a medial approach without arthrotomy and the pathological tissue was resected and curetted. Complementary anti-bacillary antibiotic treatment was administered for 12 months. At the last clinical control, the knee was free and painless, and we had no recurrence. Clinical discussion Aitken reported the first case in literature in 1933. The initial signs and symptoms are non-specific and sometimes confounded by a coincidental history of trauma. It is difficult to diagnose TB of patella in early stages because there are no constitutional symptoms. Sometimes serological parameters are inconclusive. CT scan can help if the osteolysis contained a central bone sequestration, bordered by peripheral sclerosis. Confirmation of patellar tuberculosis is made on biopsy. Conclusion The tuberculous localization in the patella is rare and it can pose a problem of differential diagnosis with other affections, in particular infectious and tumors. It should always be kept in mind, especially in the face of a picture of pre-patellar bursitis which progresses slowly and whose biological inflammatory syndrome is not straightforward., Highlights • The tuberculous localization in the patella is exceptional. • The initial signs and symptoms are non-specific and sometimes confounded by a coincidental history of trauma. • This serological parameters are inconclusive. • CT scan can help if the osteolysis contained a central bone sequestration, bordered by peripheral sclerosis. • Confirmation of patellar tuberculosis is made on biopsy.

Background Management of bacterial shoulder infections includes antibiotic therapy and surgical joint decompression. Arthroscopy and open arthrotomy are recommended treatment options. Whether 1 of the 2 surgical options is superior remains unclear. The present study aimed (1) to compare the reinfection rates after arthroscopy and open arthrotomy and (2) to identify risk factors of reinfection after surgical intervention. Materials and methods The data of 59 consecutive patients were available for final analysis. All patients received arthroscopy or open arthrotomy at our institution between 2001 and 2015. The reinfection rates between the 2 distinct interventions were compared. We also evaluated the influence of potential confounders, such as age, sex, comorbidities, microbiological findings, duration of symptoms, osteoarthritis, Gachter score, and preoperative inflammatory parameters, on the recurrence of infections and compared the functional outcome between the 2 surgery groups. Results From 59 included patients, 38 (64.4%) underwent open arthrotomy, and 21 (35.6%) were treated arthroscopically. Reinfection was documented in 18 patients (30.5%). The reinfection rate was significantly higher in arthroscopically treated patients (11 [52.4%]) than in patients who underwent open arthrotomy (7 [18.4%]; P = .007). An infection with Staphylococcus aureus negatively influenced the treatment success ( P = .034). Conclusion According to our data, open arthrotomy is the more effective treatment method in septic arthritis of the shoulder, with lower reinfection rates and a comparable functional outcome. Furthermore, we could identify Staphylococcus aureus as an independent risk factor for the recurrence of infections.

The sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) has a complete intra-articular disk that can be damaged either as a result of trauma or as part of ongoing degenerative joint disease. Although often asymptomatic, SCJ disk tears may lead to mechanical symptoms and pain. Previously, isolated symptomatic SCJ disk tears have only occasionally been mentioned in the literature with a few associated case reports of diskectomy by open arthrotomy. With improved imaging and availability of magnetic resonance imaging scans and the advent of SCJ arthroscopy it is now possible to treat symptomatic SCJ disk tears by arthroscopic excision. In this Technical Note, we describe the diagnosis of a torn SCJ disk and the technique of arthroscopic excision of a torn SCJ disk.

Purpose Early treatment of septic arthritis is essential before irreversible damage to the articular cartilage occurs. Clinicians often start empirical antibiotic therapy for symptomatic relief while awaiting a definitive culture report. In present day parlance with variations in different centres in the private and public sector and rampant antibiotic abuse, a lot of resistance is being seen in the flora and their sensitivity patterns. Hence it is imperative to document and analyze these changing trends. Methods The authors conducted a retrospective analysis of prospectively gathered data of 60 patients under 14 years of age. Joint arthrotomy was performed as a standard therapeutic protocol and the drained pus or synovial fluid was sent for gram stain and culture by 2 different methods: conventional agar plate method and BACTEC Peds Plus/F bottle method. Antibiotic susceptibility tests were done by the disc diffusion method of Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). Results The commonest presenting age group was below 1 year (80% patients) including 24 neonates. There were 19 hospital and 41 community acquired cases of septic arthritis. The hip (56%) was the commonest affected joint followed by knee (28%), shoulder joint (11%) and elbow (5%). Microorganism was isolated in 53% isolates of joint fluid only (36 culture positive patients). Conventional agar methods of culture showed positive report in only 42% patients (15/36 patients) while with the BACTEC method the yield was 71%. In the Community acquired septic arthritis, methicillin sensitive Staphylococcus aureus was isolated as commonest microbe while resistant variety of gram negative bacilli including E. coli and Klebsiella were found as predominant organism causing hospital acquired nosocomial infection of joints. The results strikingly differ in terms of response to treatment as most patients (11/19 patients) showed significant resistance to the most commonly practiced empirical antibiotic regimen of ampicillin-cloxacillin group in routine practice. When cefazolin was used as empirical antibiotic, it has shown good response and better sensitivity in 82% patients (27/33 patients). Conclusion S. aureus is still the most common organism in septic arthritis. The BACTEC system was found to improve the yield of clinically significant isolates. Though a significant resistance to common antibiotic regimen is noticed, the strain is susceptible to cephalosporin group of antibiotics. We recommend the use of cephalosporine antibiotics as an empirical therapy till culture and sensitivity report are available.

Arthroscopic lysis and lavage has been shown to be effective in the management of a variety of TMJ (Temporomandibular joint) diseases. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the medium to long-term outcomes of TMJ arthroscopic lysis and lavage and determine factors associated with progression to open surgery.A retrospective cohort study of a single operator series was performed over a 6-year period from 2006 to 2012. The variables of gender, age and category (Dimitroulis classification) were compared to evaluate factors associated with success of arthroscopy and progression to open surgery. The data were analysed via Kaplan Meier method for time-to event analyses and Chi-squared tests for trend analyses. Pre-operative and post-operative Visual analogue scores and maximum inter-incisal opening results were analysed with the Student's t-test.A total of 167 patients and 216 joints underwent arthroscopy with a mean follow up of 6.9 years. Overall 77.7% of joints had a successful result and required no further surgery. There was no gender difference with respect to progression to surgery. Males underwent open surgery after a mean of 6.2 months from arthroscopy and Females after a mean of 15.6 months from arthroscopy (p 0.005). The highest failure rate between age groups was in the 21-30 year age group (p 0.04). There was a statistically significant rate of progression to open surgery depending on the classification at the time of arthroscopy, with all patients with category 4 and 5 disease progressing to open surgery (p 0.0001).Arthroscopic lysis and lavage of the TMJ is a reliable and effective operation for patients with early stage (i.e., Categories 1, 2 and 3) disorders of the TMJ. Patients with more advanced joint disease (i.e., Categories 45) gained only temporary relief from TMJ arthroscopy and often progress to open TMJ surgery.

Background The purpose of this study was to determine the gap achieved to the medial and lateral compartments following sectioning and release of the relevant soft tissues in preparation for a total knee arthroplasty. Methods A custom-designed knee tensioner allowed the application of forces to the medial and lateral compartments of 12 cadaveric knee specimens. Loads of 100 N and 200 N were applied to each compartment, and the resulting displacement was measured in the following conditions: (1) All soft tissues intact, (2) an arthrotomy, (3) anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) sectioned, (4) posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) sectioned, and (5) release of the anterior aspect of the deep medial collateral ligament (MCL) fibers. Tensions were applied for all conditions from 90° to 0° of knee flexion in 30° increments. Results No differences were found in medial or lateral displacement after the arthrotomy or releasing the ACL or PCL at either 100 N or 200 N. At the 100 N load application, there was a significant increase in gap width when the anterior portion of the deep MCL was released (7.49 mm) compared to the intact (5.28 mm) and arthrotomy (5.75 mm) conditions. With respect to the 200 N load application, there were statistically significant differences detected between the deep MCL fiber release (11.09 mm) and intact conditions (8.05 mm) and release of the deep MCL and arthrotomy conditions (8.77 mm). Conclusion The medial parapetellar arthrotomy, ACL and PCL sectioning did not result in medial or lateral displacement changes. The release of the anterior fibers of the deep MCL as part of the surgical exposure increased the medial gap magnitude.

Proper knee kinematics depends upon the integrity of ACL at its femoral and medial tibial spine attachments. Tibial spine fractures disrupt this complex and if untreated can lead to pain, instability and functional limitation. So proper diagnosis and early treatment of tibial spine avulsion fracture is important. Tibial spine fractures are often associated with intra-articular injuries which are more common in adults. Diagnosis and treatment of these associated injuries along with proper fixation of tibial spine fractures are essential. Surgical options for tibial spine fractures include reduction and fixation through arthrotomy or arthroscopic technique. Arthroscopic technique is now more popular as it allows accurate diagnosis and treatment of associated injuries, reduction and fixation of all types of tibial spine fractures and reduced morbidity compared with open techniques.

Highlights • Psoas muscle forms a conduit for spread of infection from upper part of body to hip joint. • In the presence of prosthetic hip, psoas abscess may present as prosthetic joint infection. • Treatment depends on early detection of causative organisms and their eradication., Introduction Psoas abscess is an unusual condition and is defined as a collection of pus in the iliopsoas compartment. Due to the unique anatomy of psoas muscle it forms a conduit for spread of infection from upper part of body to hip joint in neglected cases. Case presentation A 67 year old lady presented with left groin pain for three weeks. She underwent an uncemented unipolar hemiarthoplasty eight years back. Currently, she developed fever and was unable to do any active left hip range of motion. Passive motion of the left hip was restricted to 30° flexion, no internal rotation, 5° external rotation, and 10° abduction. Lab workup showed raised serum infective markers and radiographs of pelvis were normal with no evidence of any radiolucency. Ultrasound guided aspiration of left hip joint showed E coli. Arthrotomy revealed clear fluid in hip joint but pus was drained at psoas insertion. Later on, culture reported presence of E. coli and biopsy confirmed psoas abscess. Postoperatively CT scan abdomen showed pyelonephritis. Antibiotics were given for three months. Twenty months later, she remains asymptomatic without evidence of infection with normal gait. Discussion Psoas abscess is a rare clinical entity that may mimic symptoms of a primary prosthetic hip infection. Treatment outcomes are directly related to early detection with adequate dissection of the psoas muscle up to sites of attachment and complete eradication of infection. Conclusion This case highlights importance of thorough initial clinical examination, lab workup and radiological assessment to rule out rare causes of hip joint pain.

Backgroud Collagen matrix associated to microfractures is a recognized option for chondral lesions repair. However, microfractures damage the subchondral bone and recruit an undefined amount of cells, what can lead to poor quality tissue repair. Allogenic human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (HUC-MSC) showed ease to obtaining, inflammatory response control, no ethic issue, no immune response. These cells can be stored in large and defined amount and be available for one-step surgery, what could improve chondral repair when associated to collagen matrix. This study aimed to compare short-term outcomes of using HUC-MSC or microfractures associated to a collagen matrix for bilateral knee chondral lesions repair. Methods The study was approved by CONEP: 1.695.843 / CAEE: 56776716.1.1001.0020. In a prospective study, three patients (mean age of 40,6 years) with bilateral knee full-thickness chondral lesions were evaluated. As the study group (SG), the right knees were treated by collagen matrix plus HUC-MSC. As the control group (CG), the left knees were treated by collagen matrix plus microfractures. Chondral defects were located in the patella (2) and the trochlea (1), and mean size was 4,6 cm2 in the SG and 3,3 cm2 in the CG. All the HUC-MSC were obtained from donors with negative serology to infections. After in vitro expansion, the HUC-MSC had 97% viability; showed negative culture bacterial and/or fungi growth, absence of mycoplasma and endotoxins; flow cytometry analysis showed positive to CD90, CD105, CD29 and CD73 and negative to CD45, CD34, CD14, CD19 and HLA-DR and normal karyotype by GTG cytogenetic analysis. By knee arthrotomy, collagen matrix Chondro-Gide was implanted on the chondral defect on both groups. SG was associated to the injection of 40 × 106 of HUC-MSC. In the CG, microfractures were performed before matrix implantation. KOOS, VAS and MRI results were compared pre and postoperatively. Results After 12 months of follow-up, KOOS and VAS scores were improved postoperatively in both groups as compared to a baseline. On the SG, all MRI showed signs of full-filling, smooth surface, complete integration to adjacent cartilage, and no bone edema. MRI showed the same findings on the CG, except one, and two knees showed bone edema. No adverse effects, rejection or complications were noted in both groups. Conclusion HUC-MSC associated to collagen matrix is a safe one-step procedure for knee chondral lesions repair and shows good outcomes when compared to collagen matrix plus microfractures in the short-term.

This study aims to examine outcomes for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthroscopy in different Wilkes stages of internal derangement (ID) and factors relevant in relapse in those requiring further surgical management. A review was undertaken of patients who underwent TMJ arthroscopy from June 2017 until August 2019 at St George's Medical Centre, Christchurch, New Zealand. Those with a primary diagnosis of ID with adequate follow up were reviewed. Gender, pre-and post-operative visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores and maximum incisal opening (MIO) according to Wilkes stages were statistically analysed. Parameters of those who underwent further surgery were assessed. Ninety-nine patients were reviewed with follow up time between 3 and 27 months. No difference in pre- and post-operative VAS pain scores occurred between Wilkes stages (p = 0.9527). Wilkes II patients had the lowest re-operation rates (6.7%). Twenty-one percent of patients underwent further surgery with either re-arthroscopy, arthrotomy or total joint replacement. Gender did not influence the risk of further surgery (p = 0.3451). Four Wilkes IV and 5 Wilkes V patients underwent TJR, with none from Wilkes II or III. This study shows TMJ arthroscopy should be considered a first line intervention in treating symptomatic ID regardless of initial Wilkes stage. A significant improvement in pain and functional levels occurred across all stages. No specific factors were identified for those undergoing further surgery. However, a trend towards open surgery and total joint replacement was seen in Wilkes IV and V patients.

Background Treatment for unstable slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is challenging and controversial. For many years, the debate centered around closed treatments and especially the pros and cons of manual reduction and its concrete procedure. However, recent studies reported on open treatments such as open reduction through an anterior approach and modified Dunn procedure. Being in a period of such transition, we investigated the current status and future challenge of treatment for unstable SCFE. Methods A questionnaire survey of medical institutions specializing in pediatric hip disorders across Japan was conducted. Survey items were the accurate diagnosis of physeal stability, the pre- and intra-operative evaluation of epiphyseal hemodynamics, and current treatment strategy. Results Survey responses returned from 29 out of 40 participant institutions (response rate: 73%) revealed that 55% of the institutions evaluated physeal stability based on clinical findings of ambulation capability in accordance with the Loder classification. Another 38% diagnosed physeal stability comprehensively by combining the Loder classification and imaging findings. Epiphyseal hemodynamics was assessed preoperatively in 18% of the institutions, effectively using angiography, contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and bone scintigraphy. Intraoperative assessment was performed in 13% based on the bleeding through a drilling hole on the articular surface and observation of the cancellous bone color during open surgeries. As a treatment strategy, 52% of the institutions used in-situ fixation, while another 38% used manual reduction and internal fixation. On the other hand, open reduction was used at 3 institutions (the remaining 10%): the modified Dunn procedure at 2 institutions and arthrotomy at 1 institution. Conclusion Treatment for unstable SCFE remains controversial, but closed treatments without hemodynamic monitoring is no longer the center of the controversy. Today, the topic of the discussion is shifting toward how to correlate hemodynamic findings with treatment procedures and the indications for open treatments.

Lameness related to synovial infection needs to be addressed promptly because rapid degradation of the synovial homeostasis results in permanent cartilage alterations detrimental to complete recovery. Diagnosis is based on clinical signs, synovial fluid analysis, and imaging. Commonly affected joints are the fetlock, carpus, tarsus, and stifle; shoulder, elbow, and hip may also be infected. Knowing the source of infection is essential in cases of remote septic arthritis. Antimicrobials should be administered; local delivery systems may be used. Therapy relies on the removal of inflammatory mediators. Pain management is critical throughout the surgical procedures and the recovery period.

Diseases of the bovine digit remain the major cause of painful lameness in cattle and commonly constitute a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for clinicians. Prompt surgical wound revision is critical in acute injuries. Deep infections may be treated with debridement, resection of tendons, synovioscopy, joint lavage, arthrotomy and facilitated joint ankylosis. Postoperative care is more involved, lameness persists longer, and cost of treatment is higher after salvage techniques than after amputation of the digit. Luxations and fractures of the digits often are amenable to conservative treatment but may be treated surgically if indicated.

Background Function is often sacrificed for pain control after total knee arthroplasty. Motor-sparing blocks, including adductor canal block (ACB) and periarticular injection (PAI), have gained interest to address this compromise. Our study evaluates the anatomic feasibility, accuracy, and safety of intraoperative ACB as an adjunct to PAI by analyzing 3 different injection orientations and needle configurations. Methods Eleven cadaveric knees underwent a standard medial parapatellar arthrotomy. Blunt dissection through the suprapatellar recess was performed. Using a 10-mL syringe, various colors of dyed liquid gelatin were injected toward the proximal and distal adductor canal (AC) using 3 needle configurations. Medial dissection of the knee for each specimen was performed. The position of each needle and location of injected dye was identified and described relative to the AC. Results Accuracy of each injection orientation and/or needle configuration was different: 86% for a blunt needle in the distal AC, 57% for blunt needle in the proximal AC, and 14% for a spinal needle in the proximal AC. Puncture of the femoral artery was observed with the spinal needle 43% of the time and had the closest average proximity to the femoral artery with a distance of 5.9 mm. There were no vascular punctures using blunt needles, and the average distance from the femoral artery with proximal and distal orientation was 10.2 mm and 15.4 mm, respectively. Conclusion Intraoperative ACB augmentation of PAI appears to be anatomically feasible and safe. There was decreased accuracy and increased risk of vascular puncture using a 3.5-inch spinal needle. A blunt 1.5-inch needle directed toward the distal AC had the highest accuracy while minimizing vascular injury.

Heterotopic ossification has been reported to occur after musculoskeletal trauma (including orthopedic procedures). This has been known to cause nerve entrapment syndromes and persistent pain, limiting joint mobility. We present a case of a 19-year old female collegiate athlete who had previously undergone ankle arthroscopy and arthrotomy to remove 2 ossicles. At approximately 1 year postoperatively, the patient developed pain when planting and pivoting her foot. Imaging revealed a radiodense lesion at the posteromedial ankle consistent with heterotopic ossification and entrapment of the tibial nerve within the tarsal tunnel. The patient underwent surgical resection and postoperative indomethacin prophylaxis. At the 1-year follow-up visit, the patient remained asymptomatic, without evidence of recurrence of the heterotopic ossification. In our review of the published data, we found no previously reported cases of heterotopic ossification causing entrapment of the tibial nerve within the tarsal tunnel. In the present case report, we describe this rare case and the postulated etiologies and pathophysiology of this disease process. In addition, we discuss the clinical signs and symptoms and recommended imaging modalities and treatment.

There are various surgical approaches to the knee joint and its surrounding structures and such approaches are generally designed to allow the best access to an area of pathology whilst safeguarding important surrounding structures. Controversy currently surrounds the optimal surgical approach for total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The medial parapatellar arthrotomy, or anteromedial approach, has been the most used and has been regarded as the standard approach for exposure of the knee joint. It provides extensive exposure and is useful for open anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, total knee replacement, and fixation of intra-articular fractures. Because this approach has been implicated in compromise of the patellar circulation, some authors have advocated the subvastus, midvastus, and trivector approaches for exposure of the knee joint. While these approaches expose the knee from the medial side, the anterolateral approach exposes the knee joint from the lateral side. With careful planning and arthrotomy selection, the anterior aspect of the joint can be adequately exposed for TKA in different clinical scenarios.

Synovial hemangiomas (SHs) are rare lesions of the joints or tendon sheaths that are difficult to diagnose. We present the case of an 18-year-old man with an SH in the wrist joint. Physical examination revealed a slightly tender, ill-defined, nonpulsatile soft mass, 3 cm × 3 cm in size on the dorsal aspect of the left wrist. Computed tomography showed an irregular, ill-defined, soft tissue mass in the expanded joint space, which was formed by the scaphoid, trapezoid, and capitate bones. Magnetic resonance imaging showed the typical features of SH and also revealed cavitary erosion of the scaphoid, trapezoid, and capitate bones. An open arthrotomy was performed via a dorsal approach, and the mass was excised. The histological examination findings were consistent with the diagnosis of SH.

Background Hinged external fixation of the elbow is an important tool for the orthopedic surgeon. It enables early postoperative mobilization that may result in better outcomes. All models require correct alignment with the elbow axis of rotation. There is a long learning curve to this procedure, it may be time-consuming, and it can be associated with a high dose of x-ray exposure. An axial pin can interfere with bone-ligament suture anchors and bone reconstruction plates. Materials and methods A new external fixator has been designed and mechanically tested. The hinge has a special gear able to freely align itself with the center of elbow rotation during passive flexion-extension movements. It has been clinically tested on 7 patients affected by traumatic and post-traumatic elbow disorders. The maintenance of the correct position has been tested clinically with computed tomography scans and radiographs. Results All patients had correct alignment of the axis of rotation of the external fixator with the axis of elbow rotation. No cases of misalignment, loss of fixation, pin loosening, or instability were found. Conclusion A new self-centering hinged external fixator correctly aligns itself with the axis of elbow rotation. It does not interfere with ligamentous reconstruction anchors, distal plates, or screw fixation. The surgical technique is easy to learn and relatively quick. It can also be positioned without performing an arthrotomy to maintain reduction of simple dislocations of the elbow.

Most models of acute post-operative orthopedic pain involve the injection of a clinically irrelevant pro-inflammatory agent. The ideal model should, however, be clinically relevant and allow full functional recovery of enrolled animals after research is completed. This study explored the validity of a model employing arthrotomy and objectively measured limb use. Six purpose-bred Beagles underwent arthrotomies on each stifle with a washout period in between. Using a randomized crossover design, each dog received placebo and an extended-release buprenorphine (ER-Bup) preparation. Static and dynamic ground reaction forces (GRFs) were measured prior to and for 72 h following surgery using a pressure sensitive walkway (PSW). GRFs for each hind limb were compared using difference (delta), and symmetry indices (SI). The effects of surgery and of treatment were analyzed using repeated measures ANCOVA. The results indicated significantly decreased limb use compared to baseline for placebo, and significantly increased limb use in the ER-Bup group over placebo at all times for % bodyweight distribution (%BW distrib ), peak vertical force (PVF) and vertical impulse (VI). There was a significant treatment by time interaction for velocity ( P = 0.03) and %BW distrib ( P = 0.01, 0.003). Overall, the data show that reduced limb use was present for at least 72 h following arthrotomy. In addition, the use of the ER-Bup analgesic decreased lameness, confirming the validity of this approach as a model of post-operative pain. Subjective assessments did not detect the pain-inducing effects of arthrotomy or pain-alleviating effects of treatment, and subjective measures of procedural pain in research dogs need to be developed.

Tibial plateau fractures present a difficult range of fractures to treat. Arthroscopy allows for a less invasive option when compared with arthrotomy. Furthermore, visualization of the articular surface arthroscopically can allow for a precise reduction and assessment of any concomitant injuries to the articular cartilage and meniscus. By use of arthroscopy, unicondylar lateral plateaus were traditionally approached through a laterally based metaphyseal window. However, in carefully selected patients and fracture patterns, a medially based, arthroscopic-assisted approach can create long bony tunnels for subchondral support and allow for greater ease in fracture reduction. We present our technique using a medial approach for arthroscopic-assisted fixation of lateral tibial plateau fractures.