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The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether tendoscopic peroneal retinaculum repair for patients with recurrent peroneal tendon dislocation (RPTD) is more useful than an open procedure. Twenty-five patients with RPTD were retrospectively reviewed. Twelve patients (13 ankles) with RPTD underwent the open procedure (Group A) between 2008 and 2014, and 13 patients (14 ankles) underwent the tendoscopic procedure (Group B) between 2014 and 2017. Evaluation parameters included clinical results [the Japanese Society for Surgery of the Foot (JSSF) ankle-hind foot scale], operation time, complications, return to sports, and recurrence. Postoperative JSSF ankle/hindfoot scale scores were significantly better than the pre-surgical scores in both groups. The mean operation time was significantly longer in Group B than in Group A (75.7 ± 20.5 vs 38.4 ± 10.5 min). There was one recurrence in Group A, but none in Group B. Group A had no complications, and Group B had one wound infection. Group B, excluding the case of infection, could return to sports earlier than Group A, excluding the recurrent case (13.4 ± 1.5 vs 12.2 ± 0.6 weeks). This tendoscopic procedure needs longer operation time and is more technically demanding, but it is a useful procedure, because it is less invasive and can accelerate return to sports. III.

Acute patellar tendon rupture is a serious injury, resulting in the disruption of the knee extensor mechanism. Many authors recommend augmented repairs of patellar tendon ruptures to allow early active rehabilitation. An internal brace technique, which is a ligament augmentation using high-strength suture tape and knotless anchors, has been used as augmentation for the primary tendon or ligament injury. A case of acute patellar tendon rupture in a Judo player, who was successfully treated with primary repair and augmentation using an internal brace technique, is presented. In this case, the patient regained full function of the knee and returned to full sports activities postoperatively. An internal brace technique provides biomechanical stability of the repaired tendon without donor site morbidity and could be an effective procedure for the treatment of acute patellar tendon rupture.

Lateral ankle sprains are very common injuries that sometimes lead to chronic lateral ankle instability. The modified Broström operation is the gold standard procedure for treatment of chronic lateral ankle instability. Currently, this operation is performed arthroscopically. Broström repair depends on the quality of the remnant ligament. In cases with an insufficient remnant ligament, Gould augmentation or reconstruction using the gracilis tendon is generally performed. Recently, tape augmentation (internal brace) also has been used to support an insufficient ligament. This article introduces arthroscopic tape augmentation with arthroscopic modified Broström operation. This technique consists of creation of a talar anchor hole and fibular anchor hole, reattachment of the remnant ligament to the fibula with tape, and tape fixation to the talus. This technique uses only one knotless anchor screwed to the fibula for both the modified Broström operation and fixation of the tape. This technique is relatively simple and produces similar results as an open procedure., Technique Video Video 1 This video demonstrates each step of the arthroscopic internal brace augmentation with arthroscopic modified Broström operation. The procedure is performed with the patient in the supine position. The patient's leg is placed on the leg holder, and the hip and knee joints are flexed to about 45°. For creation of the talar anchor hole, the viewing portal and working portal are the anteromedial and accessory anterolateral portals, respectively. For the other procedures, the viewing and working portals are the anterolateral and accessory anterolateral portals, respectively. Surgical steps consist of creation of the talar anchor hole (1:19-1:41), creation of the fibular anchor hole (1:41-1:54), suture lasso using an 18-G needle and 2-0 PROLENE (1:54-2:09), suture relay from the 2-0 PROLENE to a tape (2:09-2:17), grasping of the ATFL and CFL complex by the tape (2:17-2:35), suture lasso insertion for the artificial ligament (2:36-2:45), insertion of the anchor into the fibula with an artificial ligament and tape (2:46-3:15), suture relay from the 2-0 PROLENE to the artificial ligament (3:20-3:28), and insertion of the knotless anchor into the talus (3:35-3:55). (ATFL, anterior talofibular ligament; CFL, calcaneofibular ligament.)

Objectives Locomotive syndrome (LS) is the leading cause of persons needing long-term care in old age and is characterized by locomotive organ impairment including musculoskeletal pain. The aim was to examine the association between musculoskeletal pain and LS in young and middle-aged persons. Methods A total of 836 participants (male 667, female 169; mean age 44.4 years) were examined in this cross-sectional study. The LS was evaluated by three screening tools: the two-step test, the stand-up test, and the 25-question Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale. Musculoskeletal pain, exercise habits, physical function (walkability and muscle strength), and physical activity were also assessed. Results The LS was found in 22.8% of participants. The number with musculoskeletal pain was significantly higher in those with the LS. A significant correlation was found between the degree of musculoskeletal pain and exercise habits. Less regular exercise was significantly associated with higher LS prevalence. Physical activity and function were greater in participants with more regular exercise. Conclusion Musculoskeletal pain was significantly related to LS even in young and middle-aged persons. The present results suggest that control of musculoskeletal pain and improvement of exercise habits in young and middle-aged persons might help prevent the LS.

Background Despite recommendations on how to prevent baseball injuries in youths by the Japanese Society of Clinical Sports Medicine, shoulder and elbow pain still frequently occurs in young baseball players. We conducted a questionnaire survey among baseball players at elementary schools across the country to understand the practice conditions of players, examining the risk factors of shoulder and elbow pain in baseball players. Methods The questionnaire survey was conducted among elementary school baseball players as members of the Baseball Federation of Japan in September 2015. Results A total of 8354 players belonging to 412 teams (average age: 8.9) responded to the survey. Among 7894 players who did not have any shoulder and/or elbow pain in September 2014, elbow pain was experienced in 12.3% of them, shoulder pain in 8.0% and shoulder and/or elbow pain in 17.4% during the previous one year. A total of 2835 (39.9% of the total) practiced four days or more per week and 97.6% practiced 3 h or more per day on Saturdays and Sundays. The risk factors associated shoulder and elbow pain included a male sex, older age, pitchers and catchers, and players throwing more than 50 balls per day. Conclusions It has been revealed that Japanese elementary school baseball players train too much. Coaches should pay attention to older players, male players, pitchers and catchers in order to prevent shoulder and elbow pain. Furthermore, elementary school baseball players should not be allowed to throw more than 50 balls per day. Study design Retrospective cohort study.

A bizarre parosteal osteochondromatous proliferation (BPOP) is a rare, benign, osseous tumor that presents as an exophytic cortical growth consisting of bone, cartilage, and fibrous tissue. However, the identification of BPOP by preoperative imaging along with appropriate diagnosis and treatment without recurrence is challenging, particularly for BPOPs that rarely develop in certain parts of the body. Herein, we report a rare case involving a BPOP at the sesamoid bone of the hallux that was first suspected on preoperative computed tomography imaging. There has been no recurrence 3 years after surgical resection.

Background The relationships between radiographic hallux valgus (HV) and various physical functions independent of knee osteoarthritis (KOA) were examined among residents of a mountain village in Japan. Methods Study participants were recruited from mountain village residents aged ≥50 years. Participants’ height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) were measured, and baseline data, including age, sex, and foot pain, were obtained using interviews and questionnaires. Radiography of the feet and knees was performed to assess the presence of HV (HV angle ≥20°) and KOA (Kellgren-Lawrence grade ≥ II). Grip strength, 6-m walk at usual and maximum speeds, single-leg stance time, and stand up from a chair time were evaluated as physical function performance tests. Plantar pressure patterns were also examined. Results Moderate-severe HV (HV angle ≥30 degrees), impaired grip strength and maximum walking speed, and painful HV reduced usual and maximum walking speeds independent of KOA. Hallux plantar pressure decreased according to the HV angle. Hallux plantar pressure was significantly lower in painful HV than in the no HV feet or painless HV. Conclusions Moderate-severe HV deformity and HV-related pain impaired physical function independent of KOA. By controlling the pain and severe deformity of HV by treatments such as surgery, the physical function of HV patients might be improved.

Background Locomotive syndrome (LS) is a condition of impaired mobility that is common in individuals with musculoskeletal disease who are at high risk of requiring nursing care. The "25-question Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale" (GLFS-25) was developed to help clinicians detect LS. The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between the GLFS-25 score and knee osteoarthritis (KOA), osteoporosis (OP), and fall-related physical function in participants of a rural Japanese cohort study (Miyagawa study). Methods We examined 219 participants (>65 years old) of the 8 th Miyagawa study in 2011. All of the participants completed Kaigo Hoken and GLFS-25 questionnaires and underwent radiography of both knees for KOA, dual energy X-ray absorptiometry for OP, and physical function tests. We classified the participants with a GLFS-25 > 16 points into the LS group (versus the non-LS group). Results The LS group had more participants with KOA and OP as well as those who required nursing care by Kaigo Hoken than the non-LS group. Subjects in the LS group had worse physical function than those in the non-LS group. Conclusions The GLFS-25 questionnaire is considered a useful instrument because it accurately reflects KOA, OP, Kaigo Hoken nursing care need, and physical function.

We describe entrapment of the common peroneal nerve by a suture after surgical repair of the distal biceps femoris tendon. Complete rupture of the distal biceps femoris tendon of a 16-year-old male athlete was surgically repaired. Postoperative common peroneal nerve palsy was evident, but conservative treatment did not cause any neurological improvement. Reexploration revealed that the common peroneal nerve was entrapped by the surgical suture. Complete removal of the suture and external neurolysis significantly improved the palsy. The common peroneal nerve is prone to damage as a result of its close proximity to the biceps femoris tendon and it should be identified during surgical repair of a ruptured distal biceps femoris tendon.

Longitudinal flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tendon tears are sometimes complicated by posterior ankle impingement syndrome (PAIS), especially in ballet dancers. In recent years, PAIS has been treated endoscopically, but it is difficult to suture FHL tendon tears endoscopically. In this report, we describe how to suture the FHL tendon endoscopically with the Meniscal Viper Repair system (Arthrex, Naples, FL). Without our endoscopic technique, when a patient is found to have a longitudinal tear of the FHL under endoscopy, we must choose to either neglect the tear or convert to an open repair. Open tendon suture techniques have reportedly had relatively good results but require a longer skin incision than endoscopic surgery for PAIS. Compared with the open repair, the advantages of our technique include earlier recovery, less pain, a lower rate of soft tissue complications, and improved healing through better preservation of the blood supply. This technique is an attractive and useful option because it is an easy and safe method for longitudinal FHL tendon tears.

Proximal humeral fractures are becoming increasingly common, and treatment of displaced proximal humeral fractures remains a challenge. Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO), which provides early functional recovery, is a promising treatment option for proximal humeral fractures [1]. We report a patient with posterior fracture–dislocation of the shoulder who was successfully treated with arthroscopic reduction and plate fixation via a minimally invasive approach.

Spondylolysis is reported as a stress fracture of the pars interarticularis with a strong hereditary basis. Three cases of lumbar spondylolysis in juveniles from the same family are reported, and the genetics of the condition are reviewed. The first boy, a 13-year-old soccer player, was diagnosed with terminal stage L5 bilateral spondylolysis with grade 1 slippage. The second boy, a 10-year-old baseball player, had terminal stage right side unilateral spondylolysis. The third boy, also a 10-year-old baseball player, was diagnosed with early stage bilateral L5 spondylolysis. The second and third boys are identical twins, and all three cases exhibited concomitant spina bifida occulta. Lumbar spondylolysis has a strong hereditary basis and is reported to be an autosomal dominant condition.

Category: Sports Introduction/Purpose: Traumatic peroneal tendon dislocation is an uncommon lesion that mainly affects young adults. It occurs most frequently during sports activities and generally during an ankle sprain. Unfortunately, most cases lead to recurrent peroneal tendon dislocation (RPTD). Therefore, most cases need operative treatments. Many surgical techniques for the treatment of RPTD have been described. One of the most popular operative procedures is the modified Das De procedure, which is the superior peroneal retinaculum (SPR) repair. Since 2014, we have performed the procedure along with tendoscopy. The purpose of this study is a preliminary report on the tendoscopic modified Das De procedure. Methods: We performed surgery for RPTD in 5 consecutive patients (4 men and 1 woman, mean age 21.4 years). All the patients were injured during sports activities. This procedure was performed with the patient in the lateral decubitus position. Two portals were made. Three anchors were inserted in the fibula. An 18-gauge needle, into which a shuttle relay had been looped (2-0 Prolene), was used to thread through the SPR. Six passes were made (Image), and the sutures were tightened in order to reattach the SPR to the fibula. A knotless anchor was screwed into the lateral aspect of the fibula to allow for suturing by using the bridge technique. For postoperative care, a short-leg cast was applied for 3 weeks. The patients were allowed partial and full weight bearing at 2 and 3 weeks, respectively. Evaluation parameters included the operation time, complications, return to regular sports activities, and recurrence. Results: The mean operation time was 88.8 minutes (range: 69–125 minutes), which was relatively longer than that of our previous open modified Das de procedure (mean: 40.0 minutes). However, compared with the initial cases, recent cases tended to have shorter surgical times. No complications occurred. All the patients could return to regular sports activities within 4 months after surgery. No recurrence was observed during the follow-up period (mean: 11.4 months; range: 9–14 months). Conclusion: The tendoscopic modified Das De procedure for RPTD required a longer operation time compared to open surgeries. However, the operation time is expected to be shortened as the surgeon gains experience. In addition, this procedure was not associated with any early severe complications and allowed patients to return to sports activities within a short period. Long-term studies involving a large number of cases are needed. However, this procedure is an attractive option because it is less invasive and has achieved similar results as those in open procedures.

Category: Midfoot/Forefoot Introduction/Purpose: Hallux valgus that is defined as HVA (hallux valgus angle) >20 is one of the most common forefoot problems and can lead to alterations of the plantar pressure pattern. In addition, it can cause clinically gait alterations. Hence, we investigated the plantar pressure pattern and the gait-related factors using the gait analyzer. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between gait alterations or motor function and hallux valgus deformity. Methods: In 2009, we examined 309 inhabitants (male, 105; female, 204; age, >65 years) of Miyagawa village in Mie, Japan and compared the plantar pressure pattern between the subjects who has hallux valgus (HVA, >20; n=88) and those who does not have hallux valgus (HVA, < 20; n = 221). Furthermore, we compared gait-related factors among mild group (20< HVA < 30; n=88), moderate group (30< HVA < 40; n=24), and severe group (HVA, >40; n=9). If the right and left hallux valgus varied in severity, we selected severe side. The plantar pressure pattern and the gait-related factors such as stride, step width, foot angle (Figure 1), and gait speed were measured using the gait analyzer (Walk way MW 1000; Anima, Tokyo, Japan). Statistical analyses were performed using t-test, Chi-Square test, or logistic analysis adjusted age, gender and height. P < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: The average weight and height of hallux valgus group were significantly lower, and age of hallux valgus group were significantly higher than those of normal group. About the plantar pressure pattern, ratio of the subjects in hallux valgus group who can use the hallux ball in toe off were significantly less than those of normal group. However, the gait-related factors were not significantly different between 2 groups. On the other hand, when we compared by severity, step width tended to increase with progression of hallux valgus. Moreover, stride, gait speed, and foot angle of severe group were the lowest among 4 groups (normal, mild, moderate, and severe). Especially stride of severe group was significantly lower than those of other 3 groups. Conclusion: Mild hallux valgus can cause alterations of the plantar pressure pattern, but didn’t cause motor functional decline. However, when hallux valgus become severe, hallux valgus can cause not only gait alterations but also motor functional decline.

Traumatic dislocation of peroneal tendons in the ankle is an uncommon lesion that mainly affects young adults. Unfortunately, most cases lead to recurrent dislocation of the peroneal tendons of the ankle (RPTD). Therefore, most cases need operative treatment. One of the most common operative procedures is superior peroneal retinaculum (SPR) repair. Recently, surgery for RPTD has been achieved with less invasive arthroscopic procedures. In this article, tendoscopic surgery for RPTD using a double-row suture bridge technique is introduced. This technique consists of debridement of the lateral aspect of the fibula under an intrasheath pseudo-cavity, suture anchor insertion into the fibular ridge, and reattachment of the SPR to the fibula using a knotless anchor screwed into the lateral aspect of the fibula. This technique mimics the double-row suture bridge technique for rotator cuff tear repair. The double-row suture bridge technique requires more surgical steps than the single-row technique, but it provides a wider bone-SPR contact surface and tighter fixation than the single-row technique. This procedure is an attractive option because it is less invasive and has achieved results similar to open procedures.

A 25-year-old man with a pronation-external rotation type of fracture was surgically treated using a fibular plate. Five years later, he underwent resection of bone hyperplasia because of the ankle pain and limitation of range of motion. Thereafter, the left ankle became intermittently painful, which persisted for about one year. He presented at the age of 43 with persistent ankle pain. Physical and image analysis findings indicated a diagnosis of posttraumatic posterior tibial tendinitis, which we surgically treated using tendoscopy. Endoscopic findings showed tenosynovitis and fibrillation on the tendon surface. We cleaned and removed the synovium surrounding the tendon and deepened the posterior tibial tendon groove to allow sufficient space for the posterior tibial tendon. Full weight-bearing ambulation was permitted one day after surgery and he returned to his occupation in the construction industry six weeks after surgery. The medial aspect of the ankle was free of pain and symptoms at a review two years after surgery. Although tendoscopic surgery for stage 1 posterior tibial tendon dysfunction has been reported, tendoscopic surgery to treat posttraumatic posterior tibial tendinitis has not. Our experience with this patient showed that tendoscopic surgery is useful not only for stage 1 posterior tibial dysfunction, but also for posttraumatic posterior tibial tendinitis.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of unilateral knee osteoarthritis (KOA), to investigate what percent of contralateral healthy knees in patients with unilateral KOA progress to KOA, and to investigate whether knee fractures influence unilateral KOA.Studies were performed every two years from 1997 to 2009 in Miyagawa village, for a total of seven studies. A total of 1239 village inhabitants aged ≥65 years participated in these studies at least once. KOA was defined as a Kellgren-Lawrence (K/L) grade ≥2. Based on the knee X-ray at the first examination, participants were divided into three groups: no KOA (N group), unilateral KOA (U group), and bilateral KOA (B group). The U group was divided into two subgroups: K/L grade II-I combination (II-I group), and the U group without the II-I combination (G2 group). To investigate whether knee fractures influence unilateral KOA, the fracture history was considered.The percentages of participants classified into the N, B, and U groups (II-I and G2 group) were 68.4, 21.6, and 10.0% (7.8 and 2.1%), respectively. Most of the U group had the II-I combination (78.7%). The percentages of knee fractures in the N, B, II-I, and G2 groups were 3.3, 5.3, 6.3, and 38.5%, respectively. Overall, 49.2% of the U group proceeded to bilateral KOA over an average of 5.3 years.The prevalences of definite radiographic bilateral and unilateral KOA were 21.6 and 10.0%, respectively. Overall, 49.2% of the participants with unilateral KOA developed KOA in the contralateral knee over an average of 5.3 years. If bilateral KOA advanced simultaneously, the II-I group was considered to represent the midpoint of progression to bilateral KOA. Bilateral KOA advanced simultaneously except in cases with a history of knee trauma, such as fractures.

We report a case of recurrent knee valgus deformity in a patient with Ellis-van Creveld syndrome. Varus osteotomy, distraction osteogenesis, or epiphyseal stapling is one treatment option for valgus malalignment to improve appearance, gait, and function. However, surgical correction of valgus knee deformity by varus osteotomies of the proximal tibia was not maintained postoperatively, necessitating additional varus osteotomies of the distal femur in this case. The main cause of recurrence was attributed to large bony defect of the anterior segment of the proximal tibia, in addition to depression of the lateral tibial plateau.

This longitudinal study aimed to identify risk factors for the incidence and progression of radiographic knee osteoarthritis (OA). We examined the inhabitants of Miyagawa village aged ≥ 65 years every two years between 1997 and 2007. Anteroposterior radiographs of both knees were graded for OA using the Kellgren-Lawrence (K/L) grading system. Knee OA was defined as grade ≥ 2. We recorded the incidence of knee OA among participants in whom both knees changed from K/L grades 0 or 1 to ≥ 2 over a four-year follow-up period. We also recorded the progression of knee OA using this threshold among patients in whom one or both knees changed from K/L grades 2 or 3 to any higher grade over the follow-up period. Baseline data obtained from standard questionnaires, physical findings and X-rays included age, gender, body mass index (BMI), osteoporosis, Heberden's nodes, knee range of motion (ROM), knee pain and cigarette smoking. The rates of incidence and progression of knee OA among 360 participants (241 women, 119 men) who fulfilled the study criteria were 4.0 and 6.0% per year, respectively. Female gender (odds ratio [OR] 2.849, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.170-6.944) and high BMI (OR 1.243, 95% CI 1.095-1.411) were significantly associated with the incidence of knee OA, and restricted knee ROM (OR 0.941, 95% CI 0.892-0.992) was significantly associated with knee OA progression. Patients with a low knee ROM relative to grade of radiographic knee OA require more careful follow-up than those with a higher ROM.

A 47-year-old woman had experienced right knee pain in the medial and posterior joint for several years. She reported no history of trauma or participation in active sports. Knee pain became worse with full fl exion of the knee. Her pain did not improve with conservative treatment, which included nonsteroidal anti-infl ammatory drugs, steroid injections, and physical therapy. Physical examination of the right knee showed full range of motion with no effusion. Slight tenderness was present in the medial joint space, but McMurray’s and Apley’s compression tests yielded negative results. The knee was stable during the Lachman, anterior and posterior drawer, and medial and lateral stress tests. Plain radiography of the right knee joint showed slight narrowing of the joint space and subchondral sclerosis with no osteophyte formation, which was classifi ed as Kellgren and Lawrence grade I (Fig. 1). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the right knee revealed a well-defi ned 20 × 12 mm multilobulated cystic mass located posterior to the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), with signal hypointensity on T1-weighted imaging and signal hyperintensity on T2-weighted imaging (Fig. 2). Arthroscopy of the right knee detected a superfi cial lesion of the medial femoral condyle, including fi ssuring and a crack in the medial compartment; no meniscal tear was found. Arthroscopic examination revealed a mass located between the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the PCL. The cyst was punctured and leaked a jelly-like fl uid. The mass was excised using an intercondylar notch approach. After dissection was continued posteriorly, the cyst was found to be attached to the posterior capsule of the posterolateral compartment (Fig. 3). Subsequent histological examination was consistent with a diagnosis of a ganglion cyst (Fig. 4). At follow-up after 12 months, the patient was symptom-free with full range of motion. Follow-up MRI showed no evidence of recurrence. In regard to this case, each author certifi es that his or her institution has approved the human protocol for this investigation; that all investigations were conducted in conformity with ethical principles of research; and that informed consent was obtained.

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of an endoscopic procedure for patients with symptomatic calcaneal bone cyst compared with an open procedure. The cases of 16 consecutive patients with a calcaneal bone cyst were reviewed. Of the 16 patients, 8 had undergone the open procedure (O group) from October 2003 to August 2011, and 8 had undergone the endoscopic procedure (E group) from September 2011 to April 2013. The endoscopic procedure used a 2-portal technique in which skin incisions were made to avoid the peroneal tendon according to the preoperative ultrasonography. All surgeries (open or endoscopic) consisted of curettage of the inner wall of the bone cyst, followed by injection of calcium phosphate cement. The following factors were evaluated: radiographic assessment, operative time, postoperative adverse effects, and interval to the return to sports. No significant difference between the 2 groups was observed in the operative time (53.5 ± 6.5 minutes in the O group and 56.1 ± 13.8 minutes in the E group). The E group experienced no adverse effects; however, the O group had 1 temporary irritation in the sural nerve area and 1 calcium phosphate cement leakage along the peroneal tendon sheath. The interval to a return to sports was significantly shorter in the E group (14.5 ± 0.9 weeks in the O group and 6.5 ± 1.1 weeks in the E group; p

There is a great deal of controversy about the effect of tourniquets on development of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).We investigated the incidence of postoperative DVT after TKA with or without the use of a tourniquet. The patients were 48 consecutive patients undergoing primary ipsilateral cemented TKA for osteoarthritis. Group A (21 patients) underwent the operation without a tourniquet, and Group B (27 patients) underwent the operation with a tourniquet. Ultrasonography to assess DVT was performed before and after the operation.Group B had less intraoperative and total blood loss than Group A. Postoperative DVT was detected in 81.3% of all cases, and symptomatic pulmonary embolism occurred in 1.7%. Most of DVT was found in the calf vein. There was no significant difference in the incidence of postoperative DVT between the two groups.We conclude that the use of a tourniquet is beneficial, because it decreases perioperative blood loss and does not increase the risk of DVT. The incidence of DVT after TKA is considerably high with or without use of a tourniquet. Therefore, prevention and early detection of DVT are important for prevention of fatal pulmonary thromboembolism.

On the basis of developments in plant biotechnology, drug and vaccine production by higher plants can be added to microbial and animal cell culture processes. When genes encoding drug or vaccine formation under a suitable promoter are introduced into plants, these useful compounds can be economically produced from CO(2) and inorganic chemicals using sunlight. The merits and demerits of the plant process are discussed in this paper.

The present study aims to determine the relationship between osteoporosis (OP), vertebral fracture (VF) and mortality.We followed up 1024 residents of Miyagawa village every 2 years for a mean of 8.4 years between 1997 and 2009. The residents were assessed every 2 years. We defined OP as T scores for bone mineral density that were2.5 standard deviations below peak bone mass. VF was assessed by lateral radiography of the thoracic and lumbar spine. The participants were allocated as follows depending on the presence or absence of OP and VF: with OP and without VF (OP group), with VF and without OP (VF group), with OP and VF (OP + VF group) and without OP and VF (Control group). We determined survival/mortality rates until 2011 by reviewing medical histories and death certificates.By 2011, 304 participants had died. The respective 5-year survival rates for the OP + VF, OP, VF and Control groups were 80.6%, 93.7%, 87.8% and 94.2%. Mortality rates were significantly worse for the OP + VF group than the Control group (OP + VF Hazard Ratio: 1.89; 95% CI, 1.27-2.77).Prevention of osteoporotic VF in elderly persons is very important from the viewpoint of increasing life expectancy.

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a rare congenital disorder of type capital I, Ukrainian collagen production that results in brittle bones and affects body systems containing collagen. The increasing life span of patients with OI has recently revealed a high incidence of osteoarthritis of the knee. A 53 year-old man with OI presented with bilateral knee pain. He had severe deformities of the proximal part of the femur with subsegment post-traumatic osteoarthritis of both sides of the knees. However, the frequency of fracture gradually decreased and he had not experienced a fracture for 17 years. His bone mineral density was extremely low for his age. He underwent cemented total knee arthroplasty (TKA) on the left knee. One year later, the patient had relief of pain and he could walk without assistance. To our knowledge, only three knee replacements in two patients with OI have been reported, so this case is extremely rare. Although whether a patient with OI is a suitable candidate for knee replacement, it was a useful treatment for osteoarthritis in this case.

A 45-year-old man presented to our clinic requesting evaluation for surgical treatment of chronic low back pain of more than 20 years duration. He was diagnosed with 3-level lumbar spondylolysis at L3–5. Direct repair using the pedicle screw and hook-rod system was conducted for all three levels. After the surgery, his low back pain completely disappeared. Six months later, he felt discomfort and heard a metallic sound as he twisted his trunk. Computed tomography and radiography indicated that the hook head for L3 and the screw head for L4 were interfering with each other, causing the sound. We confirmed bony union at L3 and removed the L3 system. Surgeons should be aware of such complications if direct repair using a pedicle screw and hook-rod system is conducted for multilevel spondylolysis.

Category: Hindfoot Introduction/Purpose: Initial treatment of symptomatic talocalcaneal coalition (TCC) is reduced activity or cast immobilization. If these conservative treatments does not relieve symptoms, surgical treatment is recommended. The operation for TCC is usually treated by an open procedure. We report the results of the three cases by endoscopic resection using posteromedial approach. Methods: Three consecutive patients (3 feet, 2 men and 1 female) who underwent surgery for TCCs were reviewed. Patient’s age at the time of surgery were 12, 13, 19 years respectively. All patients suffered from a foot pain after ankle sprain. Two patients didn’t play sports because of this pain. This operation is performed in the supine position. Two portals are each created at the proximal and distal to the vertex of the medial malleolus. Portal positions are marked by use of sonography to avoid the injury of tendons and neurovascular. By use of a shaver a radiofrequency device, as much soft tissue must be removed as possible to allow easy coalition resection, the surgeon performs sufficient resection of the coalition using an abrader until the normal articular surface can be confirmed. Movements of ankle and toes are encouraged from immediately post-operatively. Weight bearing is permitted 1 week after surgery. Results: All patients had a relief of pain. The mean preoperative and final follow-up AOFAS ankle-hind foot scale scores were from 65.3 to 92.3. Two patients returned to playing sports by three months. The mean operation time was 123 minutes (range: 97–148 minutes). However, compared with the initial cases, recent cases tended to have shorter surgical times. No complications occurred. Conclusion: A posteromedial approach for TCC is a useful technique because the advantage of allowing (1) a direct approach to both the middle- and posterior-facet coalitions without obstruction, (2) the creation of sufficient working space, (3) the obtuse insertion angle between the endoscope and instrument. On the basis of these advantage, endoscopic resection of a TCC using the posteromedial approach is considered a useful technique. To decrease the risk of neurovascular damage and tendon injury, portal positions are marked in advance by use of sonography, so that, a safe endoscopic resection of the coalition is performed.

Among stress fractures associated with sports activities, patellar stress fracture is rare. Regarding patella stress fractures, so far only distal transverse or lateral longitudinal fractures have been reported, but there are no reports of transverse fractures occurring in the proximal patella. We describe an extremely rare case of transverse stress fracture of proximal patella in a 9-year-old athlete.A 9-year old boy, who participated in sports (sprints and Kendo) presented with left knee pain without any external injury. In plain radiographs, a fracture line was observed in the proximal 1/3 of the left patella, and a patella stress fracture was diagnosed. For treatment, because 7 months of conservative therapy showed no improvement, internal fixation was carried out using Acutrak screws, and bone union was thus achieved. Three months after the operation, he was able to return to his previous level of athletic sports activity.Regarding the mechanism of onset, it is believed that the causes are longitudinal traction force and patellofemoral contact pressure. On the other hand, the contact region of the patella with the femur changes with the flexion angle of the knee. In the current case, the fracture occurred at a site where the patella was in contact with the femur at a flexion angle of >90°, so it is believed that it occurred as a clinical condition from being subjected to repeated longitudinal traction force and patellofemoral contact pressure at a flexion angle of >90°, during the sports activities of sprints and Kendo. The nonunion of the transverse stress fracture of his proximal patella was successfully treated with internal fixation using Acutrak screws.

Background Malignant soft tissue tumors of the foot are extremely rare and thus can be prematurely excised without appropriate preoperative evaluation. The present study compares adverse effects between unplanned and planned surgical excisions. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the clinical records, radiographs, pathology reports and pathological specimens of 14 consecutive patients with soft tissue sarcoma of the foot among 592 with sarcomas between 1973 and 2009. We then compared the incidence and clinical outcomes after unplanned (UT; n = 5) and planned (PT; n = 9) surgical excisions of foot sarcomas. Results The most frequent diagnosis was synovial sarcoma (n = 4; 28.6%). The overall 5-year survival rates of the PT and UT groups were 65.6% and 60.0%, respectively, and the event-free 5-year survival rates were 63.5% and 40.0%, respectively. Event-free and overall survival rates did not significantly differ between the two groups. However, tumors were significantly larger in the PT group than in the UT group (p < 0.05). Conclusions Unplanned resection lead to a relatively worse prognosis and a likelihood of recurrence despite additional resections. We recommend that soft tumors of the foot should only be excised after appropriate preoperative evaluation regardless of the size of the tumor.

Background: Osteochondral autograft transplantation has been advocated to treat severe osteochondritis dissecans of the humeral capitellum in throwing athletes to reproduce the normal hyaline cartilage and achieve long-term elbow function. Although some authors have reported good outcomes, the current authors are concerned about functional recovery of the donor knee after osteochondral grafts have been harvested. Purpose: The present prospective study analyzed functional recovery of the donor knee after osteochondral graft harvest. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: Twelve male patients (average age at surgery, 14.4 years) had severe osteochondritis dissecans of the humeral capitellum treated with osteochondral autograft transplantation from the contralateral knee joint. The donor knee of each patient was assessed for pain (visual analog scale), joint effusion, Lysholm score, radiographic findings, and muscle strength (60 and 180 deg/sec). Results: At 3 months after surgery, 10 patients were pain-free (visual analog scale score, 0); none had knee joint effusion; and 10 gained 100 points in the Lysholm score. However, muscle power (60 deg/sec) of the knee extensor revealed 8 patients with reduced muscle strength at 3 months compared with the preoperative level, although 11 patients reached preoperative knee extensor muscle strength at 12 months. Radiographic findings at 24 months showed that none of the patients had knee osteoarthritis. Conclusion: A time lag was evident in recovery between postoperative symptoms and muscle power at 3 months. However, harvesting osteochondral grafts did not exert adverse effects on donor knee function in young athletes at 2 years after undergoing osteochondral autograft transplantation for capitellar osteochondritis dissecans.

Background Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis occurs in patients with cancer at the rate of approximately 5%; it develops particularly in patients with breast cancer, lung cancer, melanoma, leukemia, or malignant lymphoma. We describe a rare case of leptomeningeal carcinomatosis in which spinal intradural squamous cell carcinoma with no lesions in the cerebral meninges and leptomeninx, was the primary lesion. Methods A 64-year-old man complained of sacral pain. Although the patient was treated with analgesics, epidural block and nerve root block, sacral pain persisted. Since acute urinary retention occurred, he was operated on. The patient was diagnosed as having an intradural squamous cell carcinoma of unknown origin. Results Since the patient presented with a slightly decreased level of consciousness 2 months after surgery, he was subjected to MRI scanning of the brain and spinal cord, which revealed disseminated lesions in the medulla oblongata. The patient died of pneumonia and sepsis caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus 5 months after surgery. Conclusion We report the first case of a patient with intradural squamous cell carcinoma with unknown origin that developed independently in the sacrum.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common age-related chronic disorders of articular cartilage, joints and bone tissue. Diagnosis of OA commonly depends on clinical and radiographic findings. However, changes in cartilage associated with the early stage of OA cannot be detected using radiographs, because significant cartilage degeneration must occur before radiographic findings show alterations of the appearance of cartilage. To identify new biomarkers of OA, we analysed gene expression profiles of synovium from 43 patients with OA, ten patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and eight non-OA/non-RA patients using a novel cDNA microarray chip. We identified 21 genes with simultaneous significant differences in expression between OA and non-OA/non-RA groups and between OA and RA groups. Linear discriminant analysis showed that the three groups could be well separated using those 21 genes. Statistical analysis also revealed that several of the 21 genes were associated with disease progression and clinical presentation. The graphical modelling method indicated that some of the 21 genes are significantly associated with a particular clinical presentation, suggesting biological relationships among those genes. This is the first report of the use of cDNA microarray technology to create large-scale gene expression profiles differentially expressed in situ in OA synovium of the knee joint.

To preserve the function of metatarsophalangeal joints and to ensure forefoot stability in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), we performed a modified Hohmann method for hallux valgus (HV) and telescoping osteotomy of lesser toe deformities instead of fusion of HV or resection of all metatarsal heads. From October 1995 through March 2001, 47 RA patients (90 feet) with severe HV and forefoot deformities were examined. The indication for the procedure in all the patients was disabling foot pain secondary to intractable plantar callosities below the lesser metatarsal heads, painful HV deformities, and the severe deviation of the sesamoid complex diagnosed by the basis of X-ray images. The HV and intermetatarsal (M1M2 and M1M5) angles and sesamoid complex were measured on the preoperative and postoperative roentgenograms. According to the results of a questionnaire survey, the patients were divided into three groups using the visual analogue scale; group 1: satisfied, group 2: fair and or no pain, group 3: dissatisfied. HV and M1M2 angles significantly improved compared between pre- and postoperative or preoperative and the follow-up periods. Out of the 47 patients, 78.9% were satisfied with the results of the operation and 8.9% were dissatisfied. Of these patients, 12.2% reported fair results. There were several complications, such as painful callosity, which was recurrent in seven feet, and delayed wound healing was observed in two out of 90 feet. A modified Hohmann method and abductor hallucis correction are effective in relieving pain and ensuring the bony union of the great toe in spite of severe osteoporosis.

Background: To clarify in detail the mechanism underlying the development and exacerbation of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and/or pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE), we focused on the following factors: the thrombin-antithrombin III complex (TAT), D-dimer and neutrophil elastase (NE). We basically investigated whether NE played an important role in the development of PTE I a mice model. Methods: Nineteen rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and six osteoarthritis (OA) patients underwent total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with tourniquet, and 13 RA and 12 OA patients underwent TKA without tourniquet in each group. The blood levels of TAT, D-dimer and NE were measured before surgery, immediately after and during the days following surgery. For the induction of experimental PTE due to coagulation of platelets, adenosine diphosphate (ADP) was administrated, and human NE with ADP was also administrated for the development of DVT and/or PTE. Results: The rates of increase in the mean TAT, D-dimer and NE levels in the group with tourniquet were statistically higher than those in the group without tourniquet after surgery. The mortality of the mouse due to PTE increased from 43 to 67% following ADP and human NE administration compared to a single ADP administration. Histological changes of the lungs in the mice receiving NE and ADP injections were characterized by a diffuse and extensive accumulation of platelets and fibrin in alveolar capillaries and other microvessels. Conclusion: We suggest that during TKA, the use of tourniquet induces local release of a large amount of NE from neutrophils, inducing the development of DVT and/or PTE and their exacerbation.

We examined the feasibility of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) vector-mediated local expression of angiostatin in the treatment of murine collagen-induced arthritis in a mouse model generated by immunization with bovine type II collagen and Freund's complete adjuvant. The HIV vector containing the murine angiostatin expression unit (HIV-angiostatin) was injected into right knee joints after arthritis development; the HIV vector containing the enhanced green fluorescein protein (EGFP) marker gene (HIV-EGFP) was injected into the left joints. Quantitative histological evaluation demonstrated that synovial cell hyperplasia and pannus formation were significantly reduced in the right knee joints as determined by this protocol. Suppression of radiographical changes in the ipsilateral paws was also observed. These results indicate that the HIV vector-mediated expression of angiostatin efficiently inhibits the progression of collagen-induced arthritis. Angiostatic gene therapy may provide a new approach to the effective treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.