Search

Background: Evidence, mainly from animal models, suggests that exercise during periods of pubertal growth can produce a hypertrophied anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and improve its mechanical properties. In humans, the only evidence of ACL hypertrophy comes from a small cross-sectional study of elite weight lifters and control participants; that study had methodological weaknesses and, thus, more evidence is needed. Purpose: To investigate bilateral differences in the ACL cross-sectional area (CSA) for evidence of unilateral hypertrophy in athletes who have habitually loaded 1 leg more than the other. Study Design: Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: We recruited 52 figure skaters and springboard divers (46 female and 6 male; mean age, 20.2 ± 2.7 years) because the former always land/jump on the same leg while the latter always drive the same leg into the board during their hurdle approach. Sport training for all participants began before puberty and continued throughout as well as after. Using oblique axial– and oblique sagittal–plane magnetic resonance imaging, we measured the ACL CSA and the anteroposterior diameter of the patellar tendon, respectively. In addition, isometric and isokinetic knee extensor and flexor peak torques were acquired using a dynamometer. Bilateral differences in the ACL CSA, patellar tendon diameter, and knee muscle strength were evaluated via 2-sided paired-samples t tests. Correlations between the bilateral difference in the ACL CSA and age of training onset as well as between the bilateral difference in the ACL CSA and years of training were also examined. Results: A significantly larger ACL CSA (mean difference, 4.9% ± 14.0%; P = .041), as well as patellar tendon diameter (mean difference, 4.7% ± 9.4%; P = .002), was found in the landing/drive leg than in the contralateral leg. The bilateral difference in the ACL CSA, however, was not associated with the age of training onset or years of training. Last, the isometric knee flexor peak torque was significantly greater in the landing/drive leg than the contralateral leg (mean difference, 14.5% ± 33.8%; P = .019). Conclusion: Athletes who habitually loaded 1 leg more than the other before, during, and after puberty exhibited significant unilateral ACL hypertrophy. This study suggests that the ACL may be able to be “trained” in athletes. If done correctly, it could help lower the risk for ACL injuries.

Purpose: (1) To compare the pre- and postoperative driving performance in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS); (2) to examine the differences in driving performance between patients with versus without capsular repair. Methods: Patients who underwent arthroscopic hip surgery for FAIS were included. Driving performance of participating patients was collected using a driving simulator preoperatively and at 2 weeks, 4–6 weeks and 8–12 weeks postoperatively. Data collected included demographics, surgery laterality, intraoperative procedures, left and right turn reaction time, total turn reaction time, gas off time (GOF), and break reaction time (BRT). Repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used for statistical analysis. Results: 21 subjects (9 males, 12 females) with a mean age of 30 ± 9 years were included and 57.1% of the subjects had right-sided surgery. There was no difference between the mean preoperative and the 2-week postoperative left (0.72 seconds and 0.75 seconds, respectively) right (0.77 seconds and 0.75 seconds, respectively), and total (0.74 seconds and 0.75 seconds, respectively) turn reaction times as well as GOF (0.62 seconds and 0.60 seconds, respectively) and BRT (0.92 seconds and 0.93 seconds, respectively), indicating that the patients’ driving performance returned to the preoperative level as early as 2 weeks following hip arthroscopy for FAIS. There was no significant difference amongst any of the driving variables between patients who underwent capsular repair (50%) and those who did not. There was no significant difference amongst any of the driving variable s between patients who underwent left versus right hip arthroscopy. Conclusions: Patients’ driving performance returns to the preoperative level as early as 2 weeks after hip arthroscopy for FAIS. Surgery laterality nor capsular repair make any significant difference in the time for driving abilities to return to baseline. The impact of intraoperative procedures performed, and the analgesic medications used postoperatively on the driving ability of patients undergoing hip arthroscopy warrants further investigation in larger patient populations.

Background Outcomes of knee arthroscopy (KA) after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) have been limited to small case series with short-term follow-up. The purpose of this study is to report the outcomes of patients who undergo a KA after a TKA using a large longitudinal database. Methods The PearlDiver Medicare database was queried for patients who underwent a KA procedure after a TKA on the ipsilateral extremity. A randomly selected control group was created by matching controls to cases in a 3:1 ratio based on age, gender, year of procedure, and Elixhauser Comorbidity Index. Revision for infection and all-cause revision were used as end points. Results A total of192 TKA patients who underwent a subsequent KA (TKA + KA group) were compared to 571 TKA patients who did not have a subsequent KA (TKA − KA group). The incidence of revision for infection was 6.3% in the TKA + KA group compared to 2.2% in the TKA − KA group (odds ratio, 2.87; P = .009). The incidence of all-cause revision was 18.8% in the TKA + KA group compared to 5.1% in the TKA − KA group (odds ratio, 4.34; P Conclusion KA after TKA was associated with increased infection-related and all-cause revision. The association between KA and subsequent infection requires further investigation.

For irreparable rotator cuff tears, superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) has become an option for restoring glenohumeral joint stability and reversing proximal humeral migration. Signs of irreparable rotator cuff tears include pain from subacromial impingement, muscle weakness, and pseudoparalysis. In biomechanical studies, Mihata et al. showed SCR with fascia lata graft and side-to-side suturing to remaining infraspinatus tendon restored superior stability of the shoulder joint. Adding acromioplasty decreased the subacromial contact area without altering the humeral head position, superior translation, or subacromial peak contact pressure. The same research group showed that using an 8-mm thick fascia lata graft attached at 15° to 45° of shoulder abduction optimized superior stability of the shoulder joint. Adams et al. performed SCR using a dermal allograft and found that greater glenohumeral abduction angle (60°) decreased applied deltoid force. SCR can be performed with the patient in the lateral decubitus or beach chair position. Arthroscopic exploration, debridement, and infraspinatus and supraspinatus repair attempt is completed before proceeding with SCR. To restore the superior capsule of the shoulder, the graft (fascia lata autograft, dermal allograft) can be attached to the superior glenoid medially and the rotator cuff footprint on the greater tuberosity of the humerus laterally, after debriding bone to enhance healing. SCR with side-to-side suturing to the remnant rotator cuff yields promising clinical results. Using a fascia lata autograft, Mihata et al. showed a reversal of pseudoparalysis in 93% to 96% of patients and mean active elevation, external rotation, and acromiohumeral distance on radiography all improved. Using a dermal allograft and a unique graft delivery technique, Burkhart et al. reversed pseudoparalysis in 9 of 10 patients and 70% of patients had completely intact grafts. Recommendations for rehabilitation and return to activity vary, but adequate time for graft healing is recommended.

To provide an updated review of the literature on the use of orthobiologics as a potential treatment option to alleviate symptoms associated with osteoarthritis (OA), slow the progression of the disease, and aid in cartilage regeneration. A comprehensive review of the literature was performed to identify basic science and clinical studies examining the role of orthobiologics in the diagnosis and management of osteoarthritis. Certain molecules (such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs), cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF), microRNAs, growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF-11)) have been recognized as biomarkers that are implicated in the pathogenesis and progression of degenerative joint disease (DJD). These biomarkers have been used to develop newer diagnostic applications and targeted biologic therapies for DJD. Local injection therapy with biologic agents such as platelet-rich plasma or stem cell–based preparations has been associated with significant improvement in joint pain and function in patients with OA and has increased in popularity during the last decade. The combination of PRP with kartogenin or TGF-b3 may also enhance its biologic effect. The mesenchymal stem cell secretome has been recognized as a potential target for the development of OA therapies due to its role in mediating the chondroprotective effects of these cells. Recent experiments have also suggested the modification of gut microbiome as a newer method to prevent OA or alter the progression of the disease. The application of orthobiologics for the diagnosis and treatment of DJD is a rapidly evolving field that will continue to expand. The identification of OA-specific and joint-specific biomarker molecules for early diagnosis of OA would be extremely useful for the development of preventive and therapeutic protocols. Local injection therapies with HA, PRP, BMAC, and other stem cell–based preparations are currently being used to improve pain and function in patients with early OA or those with progressed disease who are not surgical candidates. Although the clinical outcomes of these therapies seem to be promising in clinical studies, future research will determine the true role of orthobiologic applications in the field of DJS.

Background: Previous studies have established a classification of sports based on hip mechanics: cutting, impingement, contact, endurance, flexibility, and asymmetric/overhead. No previous review has compared the outcomes of hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) using this classification. Purpose: To determine whether the rate of return to sport differs among cutting, impingement, contact, endurance, flexibility, and asymmetric/overhead athletes who undergo hip arthroscopy for FAIS. We also aimed to identify differences in patient characteristics, intraoperative procedures performed, and time to return to play among the 6 sport categories. Study Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: Three electronic databases were searched for eligible articles. Two reviewers independently screened the titles, abstract, and full-text articles using prespecified criteria. Eligible articles were those that reported the rate of return to sport (defined by the number of hips) after hip arthroscopy for FAIS in athletes of all levels. Data collected were patient age, sex, body mass index, type of sport, rate and time to return to sport, and intraoperative procedures performed. A mixed effects model was used for meta-analysis. Results: A total of 29 articles and 1426 hip arthroscopy cases were analyzed with 185 cutting, 258 impingement, 304 contact, 207 endurance, 116 flexibility, and 356 asymmetric/overhead athletes. The mean age was similar among the 6 subgroups ( P = .532), but the proportion of female athletes was significantly higher in flexibility, endurance, and asymmetric/overhead sports as compared with impingement and contact athletes. Flexibility athletes had the highest rate of return to sport after hip arthroscopy for FAIS (94.8%), whereas contact athletes had the lowest rate (88%). The longest mean ± SD time (8.5 ± 1.9 months) to return to sport was reported in cutting sports, while endurance athletes returned faster than the rest (5.4 ± 2.6 months). The difference in rate and time to return to sport, as well as the intraoperative procedure performed, did not reach statistical significance among the 6 subgroups. There was evidence of publication bias and study heterogeneity, and the mean Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies score was 13 ± 2.6. Conclusion: Flexibility athletes had the highest rate of return to sport after hip arthroscopy for FAIS, while endurance athletes returned the fastest. The difference in rate and time to return to sport and intraoperative procedures performed did not reach statistical significance among the 6 subgroups. These results are limited by the evidence of publication bias and should be interpreted with caution. Laboratory-based studies are necessary to validate the classification of sports based on hip mechanics.

The primary goal of this study was to compare the utilization of plate versus intramedullary nail (IMN) in the treatment of humerus fractures. Secondarily, we sought to examine whether any differences in demographics and clinical course of patients who receive a nail versus plate affect the procedure selection process.The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS NSQIP) database was queried for patients surgically treated for a humeral shaft fracture from the years 2007-2015, using current procedural terminology (CPT) code. Patients with overlapping procedures, nonunion, polytrauma, and malignancy were excluded. The Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) was calculated to compare preoperative comorbidities. A two-sample Wilcoxon rank-sum (Mann-Whitney U) test was used to compare numerical values, whereas the Fisher exact and Chi-squared analyses were performed to compare categorical variables. A p value 0.05 was considered significant. Preoperative variables with a p value 0.05 and a clinical prevalence 1%, indicating statistical and clinical significance, were included in a logistic regression for multivariate analysis to identify any independent predictors for procedure selection (IMN versus PF) based on preoperative patient characteristics.During the study period plate fixation increased from 7 cases per year to 272 cases per year, while IMN increased from 8 cases per year to 80 cases per year. IMNs were mostly in older patients (63.85 vs 56.19 years, p 0.001), and patients with a higher Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) (4.64 vs 2.79, p 0.001). IMN was associated with shorter operation times (104 min vs 128 min, p 0.001) and longer lengths of hospital stay (3.43d vs 2.78d, p 0.001). No significant differences in overall complication rates were seen between patients who received IMN versus PF. However, the postoperative mortality rate was higher in patients who received IMN compared to PF (2.19% vs 0.40%, p 0.01). Based on the regression analysis, patient age was the only independent patient factor demonstrated to predict the utilization of IMN over PF in older patients with humeral shaft fractures p = 0.043).According to this NSQIP-based analysis, the rate of PF and IMN utilization increased in the treatment of humeral shaft fractures over a period of 8 years, but PF was performed at an overall a higher rate than IMN. Intramedullary nailing was preferred over PF in older patients with more comorbidities. The last possibly contributed to the higher 30-day mortality rate observed in patients who received IMN compared to PF.Retrospective comparative study.

Over the last decade, there has been a marked increase in attention to, and interest in, femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS). Despite continued efforts by researchers and clinicians, the development, progression, and appropriate treatment of FAIS remains unclear. While research across various disciplines has provided informative work in various areas related to FAIS, the underlying pathomechanics, time history, and interaction between known risk factors and symptoms remain poorly understood. The purpose of this perspective is to propose a theoretical framework that describes a potential pathway for the development and progression of FAIS. This paper aims to integrate relevant knowledge and understanding from the growing literature related to FAIS to provide a perspective that can inform future research and intervention efforts.

Background Cutibacterium (formerly Propionibacterium) acnes persists in the dermis despite standard skin antiseptic agents, prompting some surgeons to use topical antimicrobials such as benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin prior to shoulder arthroplasty surgery. However, the efficacy of these topical agents has not been established. Methods The upper backs of 12 volunteers were randomized into 4 treatment quadrants: topical benzoyl peroxide, topical clindamycin, combination topical benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin, and a negative control. The corresponding topical agents were applied to each site twice daily for 3 days. A 3-mm dermal punch biopsy specimen was obtained from each site and cultured for 14 days to assess for C acnes growth. Positive cultures were assessed for the hemolytic phenotype. The McNemar test was used to compare the proportion of positive cultures in each group. Results C acnes grew in 4 of 12 control sites (33.3%), 1 of 12 benzoyl peroxide sites (8.3%), 2 of 12 clindamycin sites (16.7%), and 2 of 12 combination benzoyl peroxide–clindamycin sites (16.7%). The C acnes hemolytic phenotype was present in 2 of 12 control specimens (16.7%) compared with 0 (0.0%) in the benzoyl peroxide group, 2 of 12 (16.7%) in the clindamycin group, and 2 of 12 (16.7%) in the combination benzoyl peroxide–clindamycin group. There were no statistically significant differences between treatment arms. Conclusion The topical application of benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin did not eradicate C acnes in all subjects. The clinical implications of these findings are yet to be determined.

Background: Knee injection using either bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) or stromal vascular fraction (SVF) from adipose tissue has been shown to result in symptomatic improvement in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). It is still unclear whether one of these therapies is superior over the other. Purpose: To systematically report the clinical studies evaluating BMAC and SVF in the treatment of knee OA and to compare the clinical efficacy of these 2 injection therapies. Study Design: Meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: This meta-analysis was performed per the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) guidelines. Studies were included if they reported the clinical outcomes after a single BMAC or SVF injection in the knee joint of patients with OA. Studies evaluating preparations of culture-expanded stem cells were excluded. A random effects model was used; the clinical efficacy of BMAC or SVF injection was assessed using the standardized mean difference (SMD) and compared. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores for pain and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) knee index were the primary outcomes. The level of statistical significance was set at P < .05. Results: Ten studies and 472 patients with knee OA who received either BMAC (233 patients) or SVF (239 patients) were included. Patients who received an injection had improved VAS outcomes (mean ± SD): from 5.8 ± 1.3 to 2.6 ± 17 for BMAC and from 6.4 ± 1.4 to 3.4 ± 0.5 for SVF. They also experienced significantly reduced pain (SMD [VAS], 2.6 for BMAC and 3.4 for SVF) and improved function (SMD [WOMAC], 1.4 for BMAC and 1.2 for SVF). However, the SVF injection had a significantly greater effect on pain reduction than did the BMAC injection ( P < .0001). Based on WOMAC, the clinical effect of BMAC versus SVF knee injection in patients with knee OA was equivalent ( P = .626). Results were limited by the presence of publication bias as well as variability in the preparation methods utilized in the BMAC and SVF injection protocols. Complications were reported in 50% of the BMAC studies (knee stiffness, persistent knee swelling) and 67% of the SVF studies (knee swelling, knee pain, positive SVF cultures without symptoms of infection, and bleeding at the abdominal harvest site). Conclusion: A single BMAC or SVF injection into the knee joint of patients with OA resulted in symptomatic improvement at short-term follow-up. However, SVF seemed to be more effective than did BMAC in the reduction of knee pain. There was significant variation in the BMAC and SVF injection preparation techniques used across the studies and a lack of stratification of outcomes based on the radiologic classification of OA. Therefore, these results should be taken with caution.

(1) To report the distribution of injuries per body site and time lost from participation in female NCAA Division I rowers and (2) to present an updated summary of the existing evidence regarding the analysis of injuries per body site in rowers.Case series: The distribution of injuries per body site in female NCAA Division I rowers and the time lost from participation were retrieved from an institutional registry. Injuries per body site were reported as number of athletes with site-specific injury per total number of injured athletes. Systematic review: Based on the PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews, three electronic databases were searched for studies reporting the epidemiology of injuries per body site in rowers and analyzed.Case series: One-hundred and thirty-seven injuries were recorded in 92 female rowers over 5 years. The risk of injury (number of injured athletes over total number of athletes on roaster) was 52% (92/176). Among the 92 injured athletes, 38% sustained injury to the lower back, while 23% and 16% of these athletes sustained injury to the ribs and hip-groin area, respectively. Systematic review: Ten studies were included. The level of evidence was IV and the mean MINORS score was 13.2(9-15) (fair quality). Most studies reported injuries to the lower spine (8/10,80%) whereas injuries to the ribs or other anatomic sites were reported in ≤4 (40%) studies. Significant heterogeneity of the injury reporting methodologies (injury definition; measures of injury occurrence; description of the injury site) was detected and precluded meta-analysis.Most injuries recorded in a single team of female NCAA Division I athletes occurred in the lower back followed by injuries to the ribs and the hip. The existing injury epidemiology literature in mostly focuses on injuries to the lower back, while injuries to other anatomic sites were less frequently analyzed. No conclusions can be made regarding the most common injuries in rowers based on the current evidence due to substantial heterogeneity of injury reported methodologies which warrants further investigation.

INTRODUCTION Preoperative opioid use has recently been associated with increased perioperative pain. This study evaluates the effect of preoperative opioid use on postoperative pain and duration of opioid use after total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). METHODS We retrospectively identified 138 TSAs (69.1% reverse and 30.9% anatomic) between January 2013 and April 2017 that met inclusion criteria. Patients were stratified into two groups based on opioid usage within the 4 weeks before surgery. Primary outcome was resting pain at 3 months postoperatively using a 10-point numerical rating scale system. Duration of postoperative opioid consumption was also recorded and compared between cohorts. RESULTS The opioid cohort (n = 50) reported significantly greater resting pain and pain with activity at 3 months postoperatively, at which time the reported numerical rating scale pain scores were 1.6 and 2.8 points greater in the opioid cohort compared with the non-opioid cohort (P < 0.001). Preoperative opioid use strongly predicted postoperative opioid use at all follow-up time points (P < 0.0001). DISCUSSION Preoperative opioid consumption is associated with higher pain and increased duration of opioid use after TSA.

The structural integrity of rotator cuff repair (RCR) has been a primary focus for shoulder surgeons seeking long-term clinical and functional success. Improvements in surgical techniques have allowed for superior initial biomechanical fixation. However, tendon healing remains a significant clinical problem even after rigid time-zero repair. The lack of long-term healing has led to increased interest in biologic augmentation to improve tendon-to-bone healing. This interest has led to a rise in the investigation of small molecular therapies, cell-based strategies, and tissue-derived treatments offering surgeons a new therapeutic toolbox for potentially improving RCR long-term outcomes. However, the delivery, efficacy, and safety of these treatments remain under investigation. Additional well-designed, high-level studies are of paramount importance in creating evidence-based guidelines for the implementation of new biologic solutions. This review article discusses the current preclinical, translational, and clinical experience with and rationale for biologic augmentation in RCR.

The advantages of upgrade to cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) have not been explored as carefully as the outcomes of de novo CRT implantations. Furthermore selection criteria for patients with the potential to benefit the most from this therapy are unknown. Therefore, we analyzed the long term outcome and its predictors in a real-world cohort receiving a CRT upgrade from previous pacemaker (PM) and defibrillator devices (ICD). We analyzed 86 patients (mean age 68 ± 9 years; 89% male) undergoing CRT upgrade procedures. Response to CRT as well as long term patient outcome was analyzed. NYHA class improved in majority of the patients during short term period (61%), and this trend remained constant during long term follow-up (54%). The observed all-cause mortality was 54% with mean survival of 49 ± 4 months. 11 patients underwent left ventricular assist device implantation or heart transplantation. In the multivariate analysis, only kidney function assessed by GFR (HR 0.97; 95% CI 0.95-0.99; p = 0.009) and LVEF (HR 0.92; 95% CI 0.87-0.97; p = 0.002) remain predictors for mortality. Patients who undergo an upgrade procedure to CRT demonstrate a significant response rate assessed by improvement in NYHA class, with initial baseline parameters such as LVEF and kidney function remaining significant predictors for mortality.

The purpose of this study was to compare the cross-sectional area (CSA) of joint visualization between extended interportal and T-capsulotomies. Twenty fresh-frozen cadaveric hips were dissected to their capsuloligamentous complexes and fixed in a custom apparatus in neutral hip position. Ten hips underwent sequential interportal capsulotomies at lengths of 2, 4, 6, and 8 cm. Ten hips underwent sequential T-capsulotomies starting from a 4 cm interportal capsulotomy, creating a 2 cm T-capsulotomy (Half-T), and finally a 4 cm T-capsulotomy (Full-T). Following each sequential capsule change in both groups, a high-resolution digital photograph was taken to measure the visualized intra-articular cross-sectional area (CSA). Independent t-test was used to compare CSA interportal and T-capsulotomy groups. Analysis demonstrated a statistically significant increase in CSA visualization with each sequential increase in interportal capsulotomy length up to 6 cm (2cm: 0.6 ± 0.2 cm2; 4cm: 2.1 ± 0.5 cm2 (p

AIM To explore the current evidence surrounding the administration of prophylactic antibiotics for arthroscopic knee surgery. METHODS Databases were searched from inception through May of 2018 for studies examining prophylactic antibiotic use and efficacy in knee arthroscopy. Studies with patient data were further assessed for types of arthroscopic procedures performed, number of patients in the study, use of antibiotics, and outcomes with the intention of performing a pooled analysis. Data pertaining to “deep tissue infection” or “septic arthritis” were included in our analysis. Reported data on superficial infection were not included in our data analysis. For the pooled analysis, a relative risk ratio was calculated and χ2 tests were used to assess for statistical significance between rates of infection amongst the various patient groups. Post hoc power analyses were performed to compute the statistical power obtained from our sample sizes. Number needed to treat analyses were performed for statistically significant differences by dividing 1 by the difference between the infection rates of the antibiotic and no antibiotic groups. An alpha value of 0.05 was used for our analysis. Study heterogeneity was assessed by Cochrane’s Q test as well as calculation of the I2 value. RESULTS A total of 49682 patients who underwent knee arthroscopy for a diverse set of procedures across 19 studies met inclusion critera for pooled analysis. For those not undergoing graft procedures, there were 27 cases of post-operative septic arthritis in 34487 patients (0.08%) who received prophylactic antibiotics and 16 cases in 10911 (0.15%) who received none [risk ratio (RR) = 0.53, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.29-0.99, P = 0.05]. A sub-group analysis in which bony procedures were excluded was performed which found no significant difference in infection rates between patients that received prophylactic antibiotics and patients that did not (P > 0.05). All anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction studies used prophylactic antibiotics, but two studies investigating the effect of soaking the graft in vancomycin in addition to standard intravenous (IV) prophylaxis were combined for analysis. There were 19 cases in 1095 patients (1.74%) who received IV antibioitics alone and no infections in 2034 patients who received IV antibiotics and had a vancomycin soaked graft (RR = 0.01, 95%CI: 0.001-0.229, P < 0.01). CONCLUSION Prophylactic antibiotics are effective in preventing septic arthritis following simple knee arthroscopy. In procedures involving graft implantation, graft soaking reduces the rate of infection.

Background: Beach volleyball officially became a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I sport in 2015-2016. Few studies have examined the epidemiology of injuries in indoor versus beach volleyball in NCAA Division I athletes. Purpose: To compare the epidemiology of injuries and time lost from participation between female NCAA Division I athletes who participate in indoor versus beach volleyball. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Injury surveillance data (2003-2020) were obtained using an institutional database for all NCAA Division I women’s beach or indoor volleyball athletes. The total injury rate was expressed per 1000 hours played. The injury rate per body site was calculated by dividing the number of injuries in each body region by the total number of injuries. The frequency of injury per body site was also expressed as number of injuries per 1000 hours of practice or number of injuries per 1000 hours of game. The injury rate (total and per body site) and time lost from participation were compared between indoor and beach volleyball athletes. Results: Participants were 161 female NCAA Division I volleyball athletes (53 beach volleyball and 108 indoor volleyball athletes). In total, 974 injuries were recorded: 170 in beach volleyball and 804 in indoor volleyball. The injury rates for beach versus indoor volleyball were 1.8 versus 5.3 injuries per 1000 hours played ( P < .0001). Indoor volleyball athletes had significantly higher injury rates compared with beach volleyball players for concussion (7.5% vs 6.5%; P < .0001) and knee injury (16.7% vs 7.6%; P = .0004); however, the rate of abdominal muscle injury was significantly higher in beach versus indoor volleyball (11.8% vs 4.7%; P = .0008). Time lost from sport participation was significantly longer in beach versus indoor volleyball for knee (24 vs 11 days; P = .047), low back (25 vs 17 days; P = .0009), and shoulder (52 vs 28 days; P = .001) injuries. Conclusion: Based on this study, injury was more likely to occur in indoor compared with beach volleyball. Sport-related concussion and knee injuries were more common in indoor volleyball, but the rate of abdominal muscle injury was higher in beach volleyball. Beach volleyball players needed longer time to recover after injuries to the knee, low back, and shoulder.

The hip trochanteric bursa, tendinous insertions of the gluteal muscles, and the origin vastus lateralis make up the main structures of the peritrochanteric space. Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS) refers to pain generated by one or multiple disorders of the peritrochanteric space, such as trochanteric bursitis, gluteus medius and minimus tendinopathy or tear, and disorders of the proximal iliotibial band. Patients with GTPS might present with associated intra-articular hip pathology, which requires further investigation and appropriate management. Successful midterm outcomes have been reported in patients undergoing surgical treatment of GTPS using an open or endoscopic approach.

Level of Evidence: Level V.

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), is an important antioxidant that has been applied broadly in the field of orthopaedics. Current research on vitamin C examines the molecule's role in bone and tendon physiology, as well as joint replacement and Postoperative pain. Most laboratory and human studies associate the use of vitamin C with improved bone health and tendon healing. Recent literature moderately supports the use of vitamin C to improve functional outcomes, decreased postoperative pain, and prevent complex regional pain syndrome following orthopaedic procedures. The perioperative use of vitamin C in patients undergoing joint replacement surgery and anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is still under investigation. Overall, there is need for high-quality human trials to confirm whether vitamin C can potentiate the outcomes of orthopaedic procedures and to determine optimal dosage and means of administration to maximize its proposed benefits. The purpose of this review was to summarize the application of vitamin C in orthopaedic practices and to identify potential areas for future study.

Background: No previous systematic review has focused on the athletes who fail to return to sport after hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS). Purpose: To review the literature on the athletes who fail to return to sport after hip arthroscopy for FAIS to determine the rate of nonreturning athletes and explore the reasons for their inability to return to sport after arthroscopic FAI surgery. Study Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: Three electronic databases were searched for eligible articles. Two reviewers independently screened the titles, abstracts, and full-text articles using prespecified criteria. Eligible articles were those that clearly stated the rate of athletes who did not return to sport after hip arthroscopy for FAIS. Data collected were the rate of patients who did not return to sport, the level of competition (high level, recreational, or mixed), the type of sport, comments on patients who did not return to sport, the rate of subsequent hip surgeries (total hip replacement or revision hip arthroscopy) in nonreturning athletes, and the reported reason for not returning to sport. A random-effects model was used for meta-analysis. Results: Twenty studies were eligible for inclusion, and 1093 athletes were analyzed. The weighted rate of athletes who did not return to sport after hip arthroscopy for FAIS was 12.1% (95% CI, 7.7-17.4). Only 2 studies (2/20;10%) reported the age of the athletes who did not return, while sex was reported in 3 studies (3/20;15%). The estimated proportion of athletes who did not return to sport because of hip-related issues was significantly greater than the percentage of athletes who did not return for reasons unrelated to their hip (74.3% vs 22.3%; P < .0001). Persistent hip pain was the most commonly reported factor (52/110 patients; 47.2%) associated with failure to return to sport. Whether the nonreturning athletes underwent any subsequent hip procedure after hip arthroscopy for FAIS was reported in only 4 out of 20 studies (20%). There was evidence of publication bias and study heterogeneity. Conclusion: The estimated rate of athletes who did not return to sport after hip arthroscopy for FAIS was 12%, with the majority of athletes being unable to return because of persistent hip pain. There is a severe lack of evidence on the athlete characteristics and clinical course of the nonreturning athletes, and the rate of subsequent hip procedures is unknown. The outcomes and reasons for athletes not returning to sport should be reported in detail to improve patient care.

Background: There are few large database studies on national trends in regional anesthesia for various arthroscopic shoulder procedures and the effect of nerve blocks on the postoperative rate of opioid prescription filling. Hypothesis: The use of regional nerve block will decrease the rate of opioid prescription filling after various shoulder arthroscopic procedures. Also, the postoperative pattern of opioid prescription filling will be affected by the preoperative opioid prescription-filling history. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Patient data from Humana, a large national private insurer, were queried via PearlDiver software, and a retrospective review was conducted from 2007 through 2015. Patients undergoing arthroscopic shoulder procedures were identified through Current Procedural Terminology codes. Nerve blocks were identified by relevant codes for single-shot and indwelling catheter blocks. The blocked and unblocked cases were age and sex matched to compare the pain medication prescription-filling pattern. Postoperative opioid trends (up to 6 months) were compared by regression analysis. Results: We identified 82,561 cases, of which 54,578 (66.1%) included a peripheral nerve block. Of the patients who received a block, 508 underwent diagnostic shoulder arthroscopy; 2449 had labral repair; 4746 had subacromial decompression procedure; and 12,616 underwent rotator cuff repair. The percentage of patients undergoing a nerve block increased linearly over the 9-year study period ( R 2 = 0.77; P = .002). After matching across the 2 cohorts, there was an identical trend in opioid prescription filling between blocked and unblocked cases ( P = .95). When subdivided by procedure, there was no difference in the trends between blocked and unblocked cases ( P = .52 for diagnostic arthroscopies; P = .24 for labral procedures; P = .71 for subacromial decompressions; P = .34 for rotator cuff repairs). However, when preoperative opioid users were isolated, postoperative opioid prescription filling was found to be less common in the first 2 weeks after surgery when a nerve block was given versus not given ( P < .001). Conclusion: An increasing percentage of shoulder arthroscopies are being performed with regional nerve blocks. However, there was no difference in patterns of filled postoperative opioid prescriptions between blocked and unblocked cases, except for the subgroup of patients who had filled an opioid prescription within 1 to 3 months prior to shoulder arthroscopy. Future research should focus on recording the amount of prescribed opioids consumed in national databases to reinforce our strategy against the opioid epidemic.

Objective Inhibition of hedgehog (HH) signaling prevents cartilage degeneration and promotes repair in animal models of osteoarthritis (OA). This study, undertaken in OA models and in human OA articular cartilage, was designed to explore whether kappa opioid receptor (KOR) modulation via the inhibition of HH signaling may have therapeutic potential for achieving disease-modifying activity in OA. Methods Primary human articular cartilage and synovial tissue samples from patients with knee OA undergoing total joint replacement and from healthy human subjects were obtained from the National Disease Research Interchange. For in vivo animal studies, a partial medial meniscectomy (PMM) model of knee OA in rats was used. A novel automated 3-dimensional indentation tester (Mach-1) was used to quantify the thickness and stiffness properties of the articular cartilage. Results Inhibition of HH signaling through KOR activation was achieved with a selective peptide agonist, JT09, which reduced HH signaling via the cAMP/CREB pathway in OA human articular chondrocytes (P = 0.002 for treated versus untreated OA chondrocytes). Moreover, JT09 markedly decreased matrix degeneration induced by an HH agonist, SAG, in pig articular chondrocytes and cartilage explants (P = 0.026 versus untreated controls). In vivo application of JT09 via intraarticular injection into the rat knee joint after PMM surgery significantly attenuated articular cartilage degeneration (60% improvement in the tibial plateau; P = 0.021 versus vehicle-treated controls). In JT09-treated rats, cartilage content, structure, and functional properties were largely maintained, and osteophyte formation was reduced by 70% (P = 0.005 versus vehicle-treated controls). Conclusion The results of this study define a novel mechanism for the role of KOR in articular cartilage homeostasis and disease, providing a potential unifying mechanistic basis for the overlap in disease processes and features involving opioid and HH signaling. Moreover, this study identifies a potential novel therapeutic strategy in which KOR modulation can improve outcomes in patients with OA.

Backgroud Recent literature suggests that three-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging (3D MRI) can replace 3D computed tomography (3D CT) when evaluating glenoid bone loss in patients with shoulder instability. We aimed to examine if 2D MRI in conjunction with a validated predictive formula for assessment of glenoid height is equivalent to the gold standard 3D CT scans for patients with recurrent glenohumeral instability. Methods Patients with recurrent shoulder instability and available imaging were retrospectively reviewed. Glenoid height on 3D CT and 2D MRI was measured by two blinded raters. Difference and equivalence testing were performed using a paired t-test and two one-sided tests, respectively. The interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to test for interrater reliability, and percent agreement between the measurements of one reviewer was used to assess intrarater reliability. Results Using an equivalence margin of 1 mm, 3D CT and 2D MRI were found to be different (p = 0.123). The mean glenoid height was significantly different when measured on 2D MRI (39.09 ± 2.93 mm) compared to 3D CT (38.71 ± 2.89 mm) (p = 0.032). The mean glenoid width was significantly different between 3D CT (30.13 ± 2.43 mm) and 2D MRI (27.45 ± 1.72 mm) (p < 0.001). The 3D CT measurements had better interrater agreement (ICC, 0.91) than 2D MRI measurements (ICC, 0.8). intrarater agreement was also higher on CT. Conclusions Measurements of glenoid height using 3D CT and 2D MRI with subsequent calculation of the glenoid width using a validated methodology were not equivalent, and 3D CT was superior. Based on the validated methods for the measurement of glenoid bone loss on advanced imaging studies, 3D CT study must be preferred over 2D MRI in order to estimate the amount of glenoid bone loss in candidates for shoulder stabilization surgery and to assist in surgical decision-making.

Background: Interportal and T-capsulotomies are popular techniques for exposing femoroacetabular impingement deformities. The difference between techniques with regard to the force required to distract the hip is currently unknown. Purpose: To quantify how increasing interportal capsulotomy size, conversion to T-capsulotomy, and subsequent repair affect the force required to distract the hip. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: Eight fresh-frozen cadaveric hip specimens were dissected and fixed in a materials testing system, such that pure axial distraction of the iliofemoral ligament could be achieved. The primary outcome measure was the load required to distract the hip to a distance of 6 mm at a rate of 0.5 mm/s. Each hip was tested in the intact state and then sequentially under varying capsulotomy conditions: 2-cm interportal, 4-cm interportal, half-T (4-cm interportal and 2-cm T-capsulotomy), and full-T (4-cm interportal and 4-cm T-capsulotomy). After serial testing, isolated T-limb repair and then subsequent complete repair were performed. Repaired specimens underwent distraction testing as previously stated to assess the ability to restore hip stability to the native profile. Distraction force as well as the relative distraction force (percentage normalized to the intact capsule) were compared between all capsulotomy and repair conditions. Results: Increasing interportal capsulotomy size from 2 to 4 cm resulted in significantly less force required to distract the hip ( P < .001). The largest relative decrease in force was seen between the intact state (274.6 ± 71.2 N; 100%) and 2-cm interportal (209.7 ± 73.2 N; 76.4% ± 15.6%; P = .0008). There was no significant mean difference in distraction force when 4-cm interportal (160.4 ± 79.8 N) was converted to half-T (140.7 ± 73.5 N; P = .270) and then full-T (112.0 ± 70.2 N; P = .204). When compared with the intact state, isolated T-limb repair partially restored stability (177.3 ± 86.3 N; 63.5% ± 19.8%; P < .0001), while complete repair exceeded native values (331.7 ± 103.7 N; 122.7% ± 15.1%; P = .0008). Conclusion: The conversion of interportal capsulotomy to T-capsulotomy did not significantly affect the force required to distract the hip in a cadaveric model. However, larger interportal capsulotomies resulted in significant stepwise decreases in distraction force. When performing interportal or T-capsulotomy, the iliofemoral ligament strength is significantly decreased, but complete capsular repair demonstrated the ability to restore joint stability to the native, intact hip. Clinical Relevance: Increasing interportal capsulotomy size decreases the force required to distract the hip. In an effort to maximize visualization and minimize the magnitude of iliofemoral ligament fibers cut, many surgeons have moved from extended interportal capsulotomy to T-capsulotomy. Interportal and T-capsulotomies result in equivalent hip distraction, partial capsular repair marginally improves hip stability, and only complete repair has the ability to restore the hip to its native biomechanical profile.

Author(s): Jones, Ian A; Togashi, Ryan; Hatch, George F Rick, 3rd; Weber, Alexander E; Vangsness, C Thomas, Jr | Abstract: One of the suspected deleterious effects of androgenic-anabolic steroids (AAS) is the increased risk for tendon rupture. However, investigations to date have produced inconsistent results and it is still unclear how AAS influence tendons. A systematic review of the literature was conducted to identify studies that have investigated the mechanical, structural, or biologic effects that AAS have on tendons. In total, 18 highly heterogeneous studies were identified. Small animal studies made up the vast majority of published research, and contradictory results were reported frequently. All of the included studies focused on the potential deleterious effects that AAS have on tendon, which is striking given the recent use of AAS in patients following tendon injury. Rather than providing strong evidence for or against the use of AAS, this review highlights the need for additional research. Future studies investigating the use of AAS as a possible treatment for tendon injury/pathology are supported by reports suggesting that AAS may counteract the irreparable structural/functional changes that occur in the musculotendinous unit following rotator cuff tears, as well as studies suggesting that the purported deleterious effects on tendon may be transient. Other possible areas for future research are discussed in the context of key findings that may have implications for the therapeutic application of AAS. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res.

Purpose To investigate the efficacy of various skin preparations at eradicating Propionibacterium acnes in the dermal layer of the skin. Methods Twelve healthy volunteers consented to participate in this study. Each subject's upper back was prepped using 4 different techniques: an isopropyl alcohol control, chlorhexidine gluconate paint, chlorhexidine gluconate plus a mechanical scrub, and a high-concentration chlorhexidine gluconate plus a mechanical scrub. A 3-mm dermal punch biopsy specimen was obtained at each preparation site. The 4 punch biopsy specimens were cultured for 14 days to assess for P. acnes growth. A Fisher's exact test was used to compare the proportion of positive cultures in each group and across biopsy sites. A Skillings-Mack test was used to compare the degree of culture positivity between the treatment arms. Results There were no reported complications in any of our subjects. P. acnes grew in 7 of the 12 control sites, 5 of the 12 chlorhexidine gluconate sites, 6 of the 12 chlorhexidine plus mechanical scrub sites, and 6 of the 12 high-concentration chlorhexidine gluconate plus mechanical scrub sites. There were no statistically significant differences between any of the treatment arms ( P = .820). Conclusions P. acnes persisted despite a variety of clinically relevant skin antisepsis preparations and techniques. Level of Evidence Level II, prospective comparative study.

Purpose To compare the osteochondral allograft (OCA) outcomes of bipolar defects with isolated femoral defects and to investigate the optimal treatment of bipolar defects by comparing femoral OCA with tibial debridement to femoral OCA and tibial microfracture. Methods A series of patients with 2-year follow-up from March 2004 to September 2015 after femoral OCA for bipolar chondral defects was identified. Group 1 contained patients with tibial defects treated with debridement and group 2 contained patients with microfractured tibial defects. A third group (group 3) with isolated femoral defects treated with OCA was identified and matched by gender, body mass index (BMI), laterality, and OCA size to groups 1 and 2. Patient-specific, defect-specific, intraoperative, and postoperative data including patient-reported outcomes were collected on all patients. The study groups were compared using analyses of variance, paired sample t tests, and χ-square analyses. Results Thirty-six patients who had femoral OCA for bipolar lesions were identified with 20 patients in group 1 and 16 patients in group 2. Group 3 had 20 patients. There were no differences between the 3 groups in terms of gender ( P = .616), BMI ( P = .271), number of previous surgeries ( P = .451), femoral or tibial defect size ( P = .296), and OCA size ( P = .981). Preoperative to postoperative patient-reported clinical outcomes (PROs) revealed statistical and clinically meaningful improvement in all 3 groups, but did not differ between groups. Patient-specific and defect-specific factors did not correlate with PROs. The graft survivorship for group 1 was 85% at 4.5 years, 100% for group 2 at 2.5 years, and 95% for group 3 at 3.8 years. Conclusions Regardless of tibial treatment, patients with bipolar defects treated with femoral OCA have clinically meaningful improvements in PROs and excellent graft survivorship comparable to isolated femoral OCAs at more than 2 years. Level of Evidence Level III, case-control study.

Repetitive overhead throwing generates tremendous demands on the shoulder joint of the overhead athlete. Clinicians, therapists, and medical staff are charged with optimizing a throwing athlete's shoulder mobility and stability to maximize performance and prevent injury. Modifiable risk factors such as strength asymmetry, glenohumeral range of motion deficits, and scapulothoracic joint abnormalities contribute to the overhead athlete's predisposition to shoulder injury. Most shoulder injuries in the overhead thrower can be successfully treated nonoperatively to allow in-season return to sport. The optimal rehabilitation program must be based on an accurate evaluation of historical and physical information as well as diagnostic imaging. Return to play decisions should be individualized and should weigh subjective assessments along with objective measurements of range of motion, strength, and function. The purpose of this clinical commentary is to summarize the current literature regarding the nonoperative treatment options for these common injuries, and to present a treatment plan to safely return these athletes to the field of play. Level of evidence 5.

Background: There has been increasing interest in defining clinically meaningful outcomes in patient reported outcomes following orthopaedic surgery. Little is known about the factors associated with clinically meaningful outcomes after hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement. Study Design: Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. Purpose: To report on a large, prospectively collected consecutive series of patients who underwent comprehensive arthroscopic treatment of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and capsular management with greater than 2-year follow-up. The objectives were to determine (1) what percentage of patients achieve clinically significant outcomes after hip arthroscopic surgery for FAI as determined by the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) and (2) what factors are associated with achieving the MCID and PASS. Methods: Data from an institutional repository of consecutive patients undergoing primary hip arthroscopic surgery with routine capsular closure for FAI that had failed nonsurgical management between January 2012 and January 2014 were prospectively collected and analyzed. Of 474 patients during the enrollment period, 386 (81.4%) patients were available for a minimum 2-year follow-up. Demographics, radiographic measurements, intraoperative characteristics, and patient-reported outcome scores were collected. The primary outcome measure was achieving published thresholds for the MCID and PASS for the Hip Outcome Score (HOS)–Activities of Daily Living (ADL) in patients with FAI. The HOS–Sport-Specific Subscale (SSS), complications, and reoperations were secondary outcome measures. Multivariate regression analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with achieving the MCID and PASS. Results: At a minimum of 2-year follow-up, the patients had statistically significant improvements in all patient-reported outcomes (HOS-ADL, HOS-SSS, and modified Harris Hip Score [mHHS]; P < .001 for all), with a 1.2% rate of revision hip arthroscopic surgery and 1.7% rate of conversion to total hip arthroplasty. The MCID was achieved by 78.8% of patients for the HOS-ADL, and the PASS was achieved by 62.5% for the HOS-ADL. Younger age ( P = .008), Tönnis grade 0 ( P = .022), and lower preoperative HOS-ADL score ( P < .001) were associated with successfully achieving the MCID for the HOS-ADL. Younger age ( P < .001), larger medial joint space width ( P = .028), and higher preoperative HOS-ADL score ( P < .001) were associated with achieving the PASS for the HOS-ADL. Younger age ( P < .001), lower body mass index ( P = .006), non–workers’ compensation status ( P = .020), and lower preoperative HOS-SSS score ( P < .001) were associated with achieving the MCID for the HOS-SSS. Younger age ( P = .001), Tönnis grade 0 ( P = .014), running ( P = .008), and higher preoperative HOS-SSS score ( P < .001) were associated with achieving the PASS for the HOS-SSS. Overall, 49.4% of patients achieved all 4 clinically significant outcomes: both the MCID and PASS for the HOS-ADL and HOS-SSS. Conclusion: The majority of patients undergoing hip arthroscopic surgery with routine capsular closure for FAI experienced clinically significant outcomes that met the MCID or PASS criteria, with low rates of revision and conversion to total hip arthroplasty. Factors associated with these successful outcomes on multivariate analyses included younger age with a normal joint space. Patients with lower preoperative HOS scores were more likely to achieve the MCID, whereas patients with higher preoperative HOS scores were more likely to achieve the PASS.

Purpose To investigate functional outcomes among competitive athletes undergoing osteochondral allograft (OCA) transplantation of the knee, including rates of return to play (RTP), and factors preventing RTP. Methods A retrospective review identified all competitive athletes (high school, intercollegiate, professional) undergoing isolated femoral condyle OCA from 2004 to 2013. Patient-reported outcome (PRO) questionnaires (Lysholm, International Knee Documentation Committee [IKDC], Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score [KOOS], Western Ontario and McMasters Universities Arthritis Index [WOMAC], 12-Item Short Form Health Survey [SF-12], Tegner, and Marx) and custom RTP surveys were administered. All subsequent reoperations were documented. Results Thirteen athletes (4 intercollegiate, 9 high-school) were identified with an average follow-up of 5.9 ± 2.5 years. Seven athletes (54%) returned to competitive sport at an average of 7.9 ± 3.5 months, 5 of whom returned to preinjury functional levels. Of the 8 athletes who either did not return to competitive sport or failed to sustain their high level of play, the most common reasons cited were graduation from high school or college (4 patients, 50%) or fear of reinjury (3 patients, 38%). All 4 patients citing graduation as the primary factor preventing return to preinjury level of competitive sport resumed recreational sport without limitations, yielding an adjusted RTP rate of 10 patients (77%) who either returned to competitive play or believed they could return if they had not graduated. At final follow-up, athletes reported significant improvements in all PRO scores except for KOOS-Sport, WOMAC-Stiffness, and SF-12 Mental subscales. There were 3 reoperations at an average of 3.8 ± 3.3 years after the index OCA. There were no instances of graft failure. Conclusions OCAs provide an adjusted RTP rate of 77% for high-level adolescent athletes. Social factors may be more likely than persistent pain to prevent return to sport. Level of Evidence Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Background: The literature contains conflicting reports regarding whether outcomes of hip arthroscopic surgery for patients with borderline dysplasia are inferior to outcomes in patients with normal acetabular coverage. Purpose: To assess differences in the outcomes of hip arthroscopic surgery for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) in groups of patients with borderline dysplasia and normal coverage. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: A registry of consecutive patients who had undergone primary hip arthroscopic surgery with capsular plication for FAI between January 2012 and January 2014 were divided based on the preoperative lateral center-edge angle (LCEA) into 2 distinct groups: (1) borderline dysplasia (LCEA 18°-25°) and (2) normal acetabular coverage (LCEA 25.1°-40°). There were 36 patients in the borderline dysplastic group and 312 patients in the normal coverage group. The primary outcome measure was the Hip Outcome Score–Activities of Daily Living (HOS-ADL) at a minimum of 2 years postoperatively. Secondary outcome measures included the HOS-Sports and modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS). Results: The mean preoperative LCEA differed significantly between groups (23.4° ± 1.5° for borderline dysplastic, 32.5° ± 3.8° for normal coverage; P < .001). The borderline dysplastic group had a higher percentage of female patients than the normal coverage group (27/36 [75%] vs 177/312 [57%], respectively; P = .048). There were no differences in other preoperative demographics and radiographic parameters. At a minimum 2 years after hip arthroscopic surgery (mean follow-up, 2.6 ± 0.6 years), both groups demonstrated significant improvements in all patient-reported outcome scores ( P < .001 in all cases). There were no significant differences between the borderline dysplastic and normal coverage groups in final outcome scores, score improvements, or percentage of patients experiencing clinically significant improvements. One patient in the borderline dysplastic group (3%) underwent revision hip arthroscopic surgery, and none underwent total hip arthroplasty during the follow-up period. There were no differences between the borderline dysplastic and normal coverage groups with regard to subsequent surgery. Female patients in the borderline dysplastic group had greater improvements in the mean HOS-ADL (25.9 ± 16.3 vs 10.8 ± 18.5, respectively; P = .05) and mHHS (27.9 ± 12.9 vs 8.1 ± 19.0, respectively; P = .005) compared with male patients in the borderline dysplastic group, but male and female patients did not differ in outcomes for the normal coverage group. Conclusion: Patients who underwent hip arthroscopic surgery for FAI with capsular plication experienced significant clinical improvements with low rates of subsequent surgery, regardless of whether their acetabulum had borderline dysplasia or normal coverage.

Purpose The purpose of this study was to examine the hip capsule in a subset of symptomatic patients who underwent capsular closure during hip arthroscopy. Methods All patients undergoing primary hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) with routine capsular closure between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2015, were eligible. Only patients with unilateral surgery and a postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI; ordered for persistent symptoms) were included. Four independent reviewers evaluated each hip capsule for thickness and the absence or presence of defects. Results During the study, 1,463 patients had hip arthroscopy for FAI with routine capsular closure, and 53 (3.6%) underwent a postoperative MRI. Fourteen of the 53 were excluded owing to revision status or additional procedures. The final study population included 39 patients (23 female patients and 16 male patients), with an average patient age of 31.7 ± 11.4 years and an average body mass index of 23.3 ± 2.9. There were 3 (7.5%) capsular defects, and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was 0.82. The operative hip capsule was significantly thicker in the zone of capsulotomy, and subsequent repair as compared with the unaffected, contralateral hip capsule (5.0 ± 1.2 mm vs 4.6 ± 1.4 mm; P = .02), ICC 0.83. Additionally, males had thicker hip capsules as compared with their female counterparts, on the operative side (5.4 ± 1.1 mm vs 4.5 ± 1.2 mm; P = .02) and the nonoperative side (4.8 ± 1.6 mm vs 4.1 ± 0.9 mm; P = .08). Conclusions In a subset of symptomatic patients after hip arthroscopy for FAI, the majority (92.5%) of the repaired hip capsules remained closed at greater than 1 year of follow-up. The hip capsule adjacent to the capsulotomy and subsequent repair is thickened compared with the same location on the contralateral, nonoperative hip. Aside from gender, patient-related and FAI-related factors do not correlate with capsular thickness nor do they seem to correlate with the propensity to develop a capsular defect. Level of Evidence Level IV, prognostic case series.

Background:Concomitant anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and meniscal allograft transplantation (ACLR/MAT) has demonstrated short-term success in small, retrospective cohort studies. Patient- and disease-specific predictors of success after ACLR/MAT are largely unknown.Purpose:To (1) prospectively evaluate the subjective and objective clinical and radiographic outcomes after ACLR/MAT and (2) conduct a subgroup analysis to identify patient- or disease-related factors that correlate with failure.Study Design:Case series; Level of evidence, 4.Methods:Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were prospectively collected on 40 patients undergoing concomitant ACLR/MAT. Nineteen athletes responded to return-to-sport data. Clinical data (physical examination including Lachman and pivot-shift testing and KT-1000 arthrometer testing) were obtained on 28 patients who returned for an evaluation, while 24 of those patients additionally had radiographic data (progression of Kellgren-Lawrence [KL] grade and joint-space narrowing) evaluated. Reoperations and failures were documented for all patients at their final follow-up.Results:The overall cohort of 40 patients had a mean age of 30.3 ± 9.6 years (range, 16.0-54.0 years) and a mean body mass index of 27.7 ± 4.2 kg/m2. The mean follow-up time was 5.7 ± 3.2 years (range, 1.7-16.5 years). There were 33 (83%) medial meniscal transplants performed compared with 7 (17%) lateral meniscal transplants. Patients underwent a mean of 2.9 ± 1.9 prior surgical procedures. Nineteen patients underwent concomitant procedures, including, most commonly, 9 hardware removals and 9 osteochondral allografts. There were significant improvements in 11 of 14 PRO measures as well as a 50% return-to-sport rate. Knee stability significantly improved in 28 patients who returned for a physical examination, and KT-1000 arthrometer testing indicated no differences between the affected and unaffected sides at final follow-up (mean, 0.9 ± 1.5 mm [range, –2 to 4 mm] in comparison to contralateral knee at 30 lb of testing; mean, 0.9 ± 1.9 mm [range, –4 to 4 mm] in comparison to contralateral knee at maximum manual strength). Significant improvements were seen in patients with Lachman grade ≥2A at final follow-up (18% vs 97%, respectively; P < .01) and with pivot shift ≥1+ at final follow-up (36% vs 94%, respectively; P < .01) compared with preoperatively. For the 24 patients with radiographic data, no significant joint-space decrease was recorded in the medial compartment for medial MAT–treated patients or the lateral compartment for lateral MAT–treated patients. The mean KL grade increased from 0.7 ± 0.8 to 1.6 ± 0.9 at final follow-up ( P < .01). There were no major (0%) and 2 minor (5%) complications, which constituted early postoperative drainage treated successfully with oral antibiotics. While 35% of patients underwent reoperations, the majority of these were simple arthroscopic debridements and occurred after nearly 4 years from the index surgery. The overall survival rate at final follow-up was 80%. Failures occurred at a mean of 7.3 years, and those who converted to arthroplasty did so at a mean of 8.3 years from the time of index ACLR/MAT. Patients with failed grafts were more frequently associated with workers’ compensation claims (38% vs 13%, respectively) and less frequently self-identified as athletes (13% vs 56%, respectively) compared with patients with intact grafts.Conclusion:Concomitant ACLR/MAT can provide significant improvements in clinical outcomes and enhancement in objective knee stability and was associated with an insignificant degree of radiographic joint-space narrowing changes with a 5-year survivorship of more than 80% for those with data available. Athlete status may be a preoperative predictor of midterm survival.

Rotator cuff disease is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain, yet controversy still exists regarding treatment of “irreparable” tears. Nonoperative management, including physical therapy and steroid injections, should be reserved for those without significant pain or functional impairment. Debridement may be used for low-demand patients, and should be performed with partial cuff repair, subacromial decompression, and/or acromioplasty to maximize outcomes. Biceps tenotomy and/or tenodesis have been shown to reduce postoperative pain and improve satisfaction when performed in conjunction with rotator cuff repairs, with no difference in functional outcome comparatively. Tendon transfers have been advocated with the potential benefit to improve function and decrease pain. More recently, extracellular matrix and human-derived dermal allografts have been used off-label as patch grafts in irreparable tears. Superior capsular reconstructive techniques and subacromial balloon spacers serve a similar function by acting to depress the humeral head in a cuff-deficient shoulder, however long-term data is needed before widespread adoption of these procedures. Finally, reverse shoulder arthroplasty serves as a salvage option for low demand elderly patients.

Background: Hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) is a rapidly growing field in sports surgery; however, factors associated with poor outcomes and identification of predictor models of inferior clinical outcomes is unclear. Purpose: To analyze predictors of clinical failure and inferior clinical outcomes among patients undergoing hip arthroscopy for treatment of FAIS. Study Design: Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Data were collected and analyzed from consecutive patients who underwent primary hip arthroscopy with routine capsular closure for the treatment of FAIS from a single fellowship-trained surgeon between January 2012 and November 2015. Baseline data, postoperative patient-reported outcomes, and rates of clinical failure and inferior clinical outcomes were recorded at 2 years postoperatively. Clinical failure was defined by revision hip arthroscopy or conversion to total hip arthroplasty. Inferior clinical outcome was defined as not reaching the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) or patient acceptable symptomatic state for Hip Outcome Score–Activities of Daily Living. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify significant predictors of clinical failure and inferior clinical outcome. Results: Out of 1161 eligible patients, 935 (80.5%) completed 2-year postoperative patient-reported outcomes. The mean ± SD age and body mass index were 33.3 ± 12.3 years and 25.4 ± 8.2 kg/m2, respectively. The overall clinical failure rate was 3.6% (n = 34), including 23 cases (2.5%) of revision hip arthroscopy and 11 cases (1.2%) of conversion to total hip arthroplasty. Predictors of clinical failure were lower preoperative International Hip Outcome Tool score ( P = .016), chronic preoperative pain ( P = .001), and chondromalacia in the affected hip ( P = .04). The inferior clinical outcome group, consisting of those who failed to reach the MCID for Hip Outcome Score–Activities of Daily Living, included 256 patients (27.4%). Predictors of inferior clinical outcomes were Tönnis grade >1 ( P = .01), workers’ compensation ( P < .001), and increased body mass index ( P = .02). Conclusion: This study demonstrates that 73% of all patients treated for symptomatic FAIS with primary hip arthroscopy and routine capsular closure achieved the MCID. Clinical failure is predicted by a number of modifiable and nonmodifiable factors, including chronic preoperative pain and presence of chondromalacia. The current study updates the midterm failure rates and outcomes achievable with hip arthroscopy for FAIS.

Background: Shoulder arthroscopy is a commonly performed, critical component of orthopaedic residency training. However, it is unclear whether there are additional risks to patients in cases associated with resident involvement. Purpose: To compare shoulder arthroscopy cases with and without resident involvement via a large, prospectively maintained national surgical registry to characterize perioperative risks. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: The prospectively maintained American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program registry was queried to identify patients who underwent 1 of 12 shoulder arthroscopy procedures from 2005 through 2012. Multivariate Poisson regression with robust error variance was used to compare the rates of postoperative adverse events and readmission within 30 days between cases with and without resident involvement. Multivariate linear regression was used to compare operative time between cohorts. Results: A total of 15,774 patients with shoulder arthroscopy were included in the study, and 12.3% of these had a resident involved with the case. The overall rate of adverse events was 1.09%. On multivariate analysis, resident involvement was not associated with increased rates of any aggregate or individual adverse event. There was also no association between resident involvement and risk of readmission within 30 days. Resident involvement was not associated with any difference in operative time ( P = .219). Conclusion: Resident involvement in shoulder arthroscopy was not associated with increased risk of adverse events, increased operative time, or readmission within 30 days. The results of this study suggest that resident involvement in shoulder arthroscopy cases is a safe method for trainees to learn these procedures.

Background:Monitoring vitamin D levels in athletes and determining their response to supplementation in cases of deficiency is thought to be necessary to modulate the risks associated with vitamin D deficiency.Hypothesis/Purpose:To report the results of a 5-year-long surveillance program of vitamin D in the serum of football players on a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I team and to examine whether factors including age, body mass index (BMI), race, position played, and supplement type would affect the response to 12-month oral vitamin D replacement therapy in athletes with deficiency. We hypothesized that yearly measurements would decrease the proportion of athletes with vitamin D insufficiency over the years and that the aforementioned factors would affect the response to the supplementation therapy.Study Design:Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:We measured serum 25(OH)D levels (25-hydroxyvitamin D) in 272 NCAA Division I football players from our institution annually between 2012 and 2017. Athletes with insufficient vitamin D levels (Results:The prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency decreased significantly during the study period, from 55.5% in 2012-2013 to 30.7% in 2016-2017 ( P = .033). The mean 25(OH)D level in 2012 was 36.3 ng/mL, and this increased to 40.5 ng/mL in 2017 ( P < .001); however, this increase was not steady over the study period. Non-Hispanic athletes and quarterbacks had the highest average 25(OH)D levels, and Black players and running backs had the lowest overall levels. There were no significant differences in age, BMI, race, or playing position between athletes with and without failed vitamin D supplementation. Athletes receiving vitamin D3 alone had a more successful rate of conversion (48.15%) than those receiving combined vitamin D3/D2 (22.22%; P = .034).Conclusion:To decrease the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in football players, serum vitamin D measurements should be performed at least once a year, and oral supplementation therapy should be provided in cases of deficiency. Black players might be at increased risk of vitamin D insufficiency. Oral vitamin D3 may be more effective in restoring vitamin D levels than combined vitamin D3/D2 therapy.

Background:Whether resident involvement in surgical procedures affects intra- and/or postoperative outcomes is controversial.Purpose/Hypothesis:The purpose of this study was to compare operative time, adverse events, and readmission rate for arthroscopic knee surgery cases with and without resident involvement. We hypothesized that resident involvement would not negatively affect these variables.Study Design:Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:A retrospective review of the prospectively maintained National Surgical Quality Improvement Program was performed. Patients who underwent arthroscopic knee surgery between 2005 and 2012 were identified. Multivariate Poisson regression with robust error variance was used to compare the rates of postoperative adverse events and readmission within 30 days between cases with and without resident involvement. Multivariate linear regression was used to compare operative time between cohorts. Because of multiple statistical comparisons, a Bonferroni correction was used, and statistical significance was set at P < .004.Results:A total of 29,539 patients who underwent arthroscopic knee surgery were included in the study, and 11.3% of these patients had a resident involved with the case. The overall rate of adverse events was 1.62%. On multivariate analysis, resident involvement was not associated with increased rates of adverse events or readmission. Resident cases had a mean 6-minute increase in operative time ( P < .001).Conclusion:Overall, resident involvement in arthroscopic knee surgery was not associated with an increased risk of adverse events or readmission. Resident involvement was associated with only a mean increased operative time of 6 minutes, a difference that is not likely to be clinically significant. These results support the safety of resident involvement with arthroscopic knee surgery.

Magnetic particle imaging (MPI) is a novel tracer-based in vivo imaging modality allowing quantitative measurements of the spatial distributions of superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) nanoparticles in three dimensions (3D) and in real time using electromagnetic fields. However, MPI lacks the detection of morphological information which makes it difficult to unambiguously assign spatial SPIO distributions to actual organ structures. To compensate for this, a preclinical highly integrated hybrid system combining MPI and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has been designed and gets characterized in this work. This hybrid MPI-MRI system offers a high grade of integration with respect to its hard- and software and enables sequential measurements of MPI and MRI within one seamless study and without the need for object repositioning. Therefore, time-resolved measurements of SPIO distributions acquired with MPI as well as morphological and functional information acquired with MRI can be combined with high spatial co-registration accuracy. With this initial phantom study, the feasibility of a highly integrated MPI-MRI hybrid systems has been proven successfully. This will enable dual-modal in vivo preclinical investigations of mice and rats with high confidence of success, offering the unique feature of precise MPI FOV planning on the basis of MRI data and vice versa.

Hip arthroscopy has experienced unprecedented growth in recent years and remains an area of booming technology and interest in orthopedic surgery. As understanding of the pathologic state of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) has grown, imaging modalities have increased. Careful consideration of all bony and soft tissue structures in concert with physical examination findings in nonarthritic patients is necessary before any surgical intervention. This article summarizes the authors' approach to imaging in patients suspected of FAI, which facilitates careful patient selection and preoperative planning.

The use of biologic treatment strategies in the nonoperative and operative care of orthopaedic and sports injuries continues to expand in parallel with our understanding of the healing response after injuries. This is in large part because of the growing number of basic, translational, and clinical studies investigating the use of biologic augmentation in musculoskeletal care. Platelet-rich plasma, growth factors, and cell-based and gene-based treatments are among the most commonly explored options, and they have found varying levels of success in promoting soft tissue and osseous healing. Preclinical studies have illustrated the potential for broad application of biologic treatment strategies in orthopaedics. However, many important questions remain regarding delivery, efficacy, and safety of biologic treatments. Additional well-designed basic and clinical studies are of paramount importance to create evidence-based guidelines for the implementation of biologic treatments in orthopaedics.

Participation in recreational and competitive athletics continues to increase. Injury rates, including anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears, have increased concomitantly. As such there has been increasing interest and research related to ACL injury prevention. The first steps in injury prevention are gaining an understanding of the mechanism of injury and the risk factors predisposing to injury. The focus of this article is on the current understanding of ACL injury mechanism and risk factors. ACL injury mechanisms are stratified and discussed as noncontact and contact injuries. Additionally, risk factors, both modifiable and nonmodifiable, are reviewed.

Background: Among collegiate sports, ice hockey and wrestling have been reported to have the highest rates of concussion injury. Recent literature has shown that among all sports, female soccer players had the highest rate of concussion injury at the high school level. Sport-specific analysis will increase our knowledge of epidemiologic characteristics of this serious injury in young soccer players, where “heading” is commonly involved during participation. Hypothesis: Heading during soccer will be associated with increased frequency of concussion injury in collegiate female players compared with other mechanisms of injury, and concussion injury mechanism and rates will differ by setting of injury (practice or match) and player position. Study Design: Descriptive epidemiologic study. Methods: This was a retrospective review and epidemiologic analysis of all concussions documented from a single National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I female collegiate soccer team between 2004 and 2017. A total of 381 participants were reviewed, and concussion injury mechanism, setting (practice or match), player position, and number of games and practices missed due to injury were analyzed. Results: Overall, 25 concussions in 22 players from the 2004 to 2017 seasons were identified, for an annual rate of 1.79 concussions per year. Collisions (36%) followed by headers (20%) were the most common mechanisms. Forwards sustained the most concussions (32%). Injuries were more common in games (56%) than practice (40%). Of note, the most common cause of concussion during practice was headers (40%). Of the concussions documented, 20 (91%) were the player’s first concussion. On average, each concussion resulted in a player missing 3.96 games and 12.46 practices. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that concussion rates in female NCAA soccer players vary by position and occur with different frequencies and mechanisms in practice and games. Interventions for concussion avoidance should aim to limit exposure to high-risk activity, including player-to-player contact in games and headers in practice. Although gameplay and collisions can be unpredictable and difficult to control, practice settings can be modified in an attempt to decrease risk.

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a hereditary disorder of the connective tissue, which has been classified into numerous subtypes over the years. EDS is generally characterized by hyperextensible skin, hypermobile joints, and tissue fragility. According to the 2017 International Classification of EDS, 13 subtypes of EDS have been recognized. The majority of genes involved in EDS are either collagen-encoding genes or genes encoding collagen-modifying enzymes. Orthopedic surgeons most commonly encounter patients with the hypermobile type EDS (hEDS), who present with signs and symptoms of hypermobility and/or instability in one or more joints. Patients with joint hypermobility syndrome (JHS) might also present with similar symptomatology. This article will focus on the surgical management of patients with knee or shoulder abnormalities related to hEDS/JHS.

Purpose: To identify potential differences in interportal capsulotomy size and cross-sectional area (CSA) using the anterolateral portal (ALP) and either the: (i) standard anterior portal (SAP) or (ii) modified anterior portal (MAP). Materials and Methods: Ten cadaveric hemi pelvis specimens were included. A standard arthroscopic ALP was created. Hips were randomized to SAP (n=5) or MAP (n=5) groups. The spinal needle was placed at the center of the anterior triangle or directly adjacent to the ALP in the SAP and MAP groups, respectively. A capsulotomy was created by inserting the knife through the SAP or MAP. The length and width of each capsulotomy was measured using digital calipers under direct visualization. The CSA and length of the capsulotomy as a percentage of total iliofemoral ligament (IFL) side-to-side width were calculated. Results: There were no differences in mean cadaveric age, weight or IFL dimensions between the groups. Capsulotomy CSA was significantly larger in the SAP group compared with the MAP group (SAP 2.16±0.64 cm2 vs. MAP 0.65±0.17 cm2, P=0.008). Capsulotomy length as a percentage of total IFL width was significantly longer in the SAP group compared with the MAP group (SAP 74.2±14.1% vs. MAP 32.4±3.7%, P=0.008). Conclusion: The CSA of the capsulotomy and the percentage of the total IFL width disrupted are significantly smaller when the interportal capsulotomy is performed between the ALP and MAP portals, compared to the one created between the ALP and SAP. Surgeons should be aware of this fact when performing hip arthroscopy.

Background:High tibial osteotomy (HTO) was developed to treat early medial compartment osteoarthritis in varus knees.Purpose:To evaluate the midterm and long-term outcomes of HTO in a large population-based cohort of patients.Study Design:Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:Data from the California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development were used to identify patients undergoing HTO from 2000 to 2014. Patients with infectious arthritis, rheumatological disease, congenital deformities, malignancy, concurrent arthroplasty, or skeletal trauma were excluded. Demographic information was assessed for every patient. Failure was defined as conversion to total or unicompartmental knee arthroplasty. Differences between patients requiring arthroplasty and those who did not were identified using univariate analysis. Multivariate analysis was performed, and Kaplan-Meier survivorship estimates for 5- and 10-year survival were computed.Results:A total of 1576 procedures were identified between 2000 and 2014; of these, 358 procedures were converted to arthroplasty within 10 years. Patients who went on to arthroplasty after HTO were older (48.23 ± 6.76 vs 42.66 ± 9.80 years, respectively; P < .001), had a higher incidence of hypertension (25.42% vs 17.82%, respectively; P = .001), and had a higher likelihood of having ≥1 comorbidity (38.0% vs 31.4%, respectively; P = .044). Patients were 8% more likely to require arthroplasty for each additional year in age (relative risk [RR], 1.08). Female patients were also at an increased risk of conversion to arthroplasty compared with male patients (RR, 1.38). Survivorship at 5 and 10 years was 80% and 56%, respectively, and the median time to failure was 5.1 years.Conclusion:HTO may provide long-term survival in select patients. Careful consideration should be given to patient age, sex, and osteoarthritis of the knee when selecting patients for this procedure.

Antegrade reamed intramedullary nailing has the advantages of high fracture union and early weight-bearing, making it the gold standard for fixation of diaphyseal femur fractures. However, knowledge of distal femoral anatomy may mitigate the risk of secondary complications. We present a previously unrecognized complication of antegrade femoral nailing in which a 23-year-old man sustained iatrogenic rupture of the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) caused by the distal interlocking screw of the femoral nail. The patient had a history of antegrade intramedullary nailing that was revised for rotational malalignment, after which he began experiencing recurrent episodes of atraumatic bloody joint effusion and swelling of the right knee with associated patellar instability. Plain radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a large effusion with a prominent intra-articular distal interlocking screw disrupting the MPFL. The patient underwent a right knee arthroscopic-assisted MPFL reconstruction and removal of the distal interlocking screw. Following surgery, the patient experienced resolution of his effusions, no recurrent patellar instability, and was able to return to his activities. This case demonstrates that iatrogenic MPFL injury is a potential complication of antegrade femoral nailing and a previously unrecognized cause of patellar instability. Surgeons should be aware of this potential complication and strive to avoid the MPFL origin when placing their distal interlocking screw.

To determine whether shoulder injections prior to rotator cuff repair (RCR) are associated with deleterious surgical outcomes.Two large national insurance databases were used to identify a total of 22,156 patients who received ipsilateral shoulder injections prior to RCR. They were age, sex, obesity, smoking status, and comorbidity matched to a control group of patients who underwent RCR without prior injections. The 2 groups were compared regarding RCR revision rates.Patients who received injections prior to RCR were more likely to undergo RCR revision than matched controls (odds ratio [OR], 1.52; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.38-1.68; P.0001). Patients who received injections closer to the time of index RCR were more likely to undergo revision (P.0001). Patients who received a single injection prior to RCR had a higher likelihood of revision (OR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.10-1.43; P = .001). Patients who received 2 or more injections prior to RCR had a greater than 2-fold odds of revision (combined OR, 2.12; 95% CI, 1.82-2.47; P.0001) versus the control group.This study strongly suggests a correlation between preoperative shoulder injections and revision RCR. There is also a frequency dependence and time dependence to this finding, with more frequent injections and with administration of injections closer to the time of surgery both independently associated with higher revision RCR rates. Presently, on the basis of this retrospective database study, orthopaedic surgeons should exercise due caution regarding shoulder injections in patients whom they are considering to be surgical candidates for RCR.Level III, therapeutic study.

Background:Allograft tendon used in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) requires sterilization before implantation. Low-dose gamma irradiation is a means of sterilization that may minimize tissue damage.Purpose:To quantify the variability in mechanical properties between low-dose irradiated Achilles tendon allografts used for ACLR.Study Design:Descriptive laboratory study.Methods:A total of 15 intact outer-third Achilles tendon allograft specimens were collected from the remains of full Achilles allografts used for intraoperative ACLR at a single hospital. All grafts were obtained from a single tissue bank and underwent proprietary disinfection and low-dose gamma irradiation (1.5-2.5 Mrad). Biomechanical testing was carried out to measure tendon elongation, failure location during tensile testing, maximum stress, maximum strain, and modulus of elasticity. The mean and standard deviation were calculated for each outcome measure, and the variability between specimens was calculated by the coefficient of variation (CV). The effect of donor age on graft material properties was examined by use of linear regression. One-way analysis of variance was performed to compare differences in the mechanical properties across failure locations.Results:During cyclic testing, tendon elongation averaged 1.4% ± 1.6% with a CV of 118%. During failure testing, the maximum stress averaged 12.2 ± 4.1 MPa, maximum strain averaged 21.0% ± 6.3%, and modulus of elasticity averaged 95.5 ± 30.8 MPa. The CVs for maximum stress, maximum strain, and modulus of elasticity were 34%, 30%, and 32%, respectively. Ten tendons failed in the midsubstance and 5 failed at the tendon-bone enthesis. No differences were noted in mechanical properties between grafts that failed in the midsubstance versus those that failed at the enthesis. Donor age did not correlate with allograft elongation during cyclic load or any of the material property measures during failure testing.Conclusion:The variabilities in the material properties and graft elongation during cyclic loading of Achilles tendon allografts used in ACLR fall within the range of properties reported in the literature for other ACLR allografts. Material properties do not differ by donor age or graft failure location observed during failure testing.Clinical Relevance:Surgeons should be aware that there exists considerable variation in the mechanical properties of Achilles allograft tendons used for ACLR. This variability is difficult to detect by tissue bank screening or the treating surgeon’s inspection and may contribute to the heterogeneity in outcomes of allograft ACLR.