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Introduction: In today's world, high-cost procedures are being examined, and alternative procedures are being developed. In this context, one frequently examined procedure is total knee replacement. Purpose: This study aims to examine the three different closure techniques used in total knee replacement. Methods: This study is a prospective randomized controlled study. Two hundred participants who underwent total knee replacement surgery, were included in the study. Participants were randomly divided into three groups. Arthrotomy was performed using a medial parapatellar approach with a midline incision. Standard femoral and tibial cuts were followed by the implantation of a Smith and Nephew genesis II implant for all participants. Complications, joint range of motion, pain scores, certain movement degrees, and functional scores were investigated. Results: Pre-op and post-op range of motion, knee society score, oxford knee score, certain movement degree values have shown no significant difference. Visual analogue scale values were different significantly between the groups. There is a statistical difference between the range of motion, knee society score, oxford knee score, certain movement degree and visual analogue scale values in repeated measurements. The most common complication was a hematoma. This was observed most frequently in the continuous vicryl suture group. The closure time in the Barbed group was significantly lower than in the other groups. Discussion: Treatment for total knee replacement is a heavy economic burden. Health systems and hospitals are under pressure. The results obtained in our study show that there is no superiority of one closure technique over the other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Aims: Previous studies have reported concern regarding high reoperation rates when septic arthritis of the native shoulder is treated arthroscopically, compared to open arthrotomy. We aimed to compare re-operation rate between the two strategies. Patients and methods: The review was registered prospectively at PROSPERO, (CRD42021226518). We searched common databases and references lists (8 February 2021). The inclusion criteria included interventional or observational studies of adult patients with a confirmed diagnosis of native shoulder joint septic arthritis and had either arthroscopy or arthrotomy. The exclusion criteria included patients with periprosthetic or post-surgical infections, patients who had atypical infections, and studies that did not report re-operation rate. Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing risk of bias (ROBINS-I) was used. Results: Nine studies (retrospective cohort studies) were included that involved 5,643 patients (5,645 shoulders). Mean age ranged from 55.6 to 75.5 years, and follow-up time ranged from 1–41 months. Mean duration of symptoms prior to presentation ranged from 8.3–23.3 days. Metanalysis observed a higher re-operation rate for reinfection at any time point following initial arthroscopy in comparison to arthrotomy, odds ratio 2.61 (95% confidence interval 1.04, 6.56). There was marked heterogeneity (I2 = 78.8%) among studies including surgical techniques and missing data. Conclusion: This metanalysis observed a higher reoperation rate in arthroscopy in comparison to arthrotomy for the treatment of native shoulder septic arthritis in adults. The quality of the included evidence is low and the heterogeneity among included studies is marked. Higher quality evidence is still needed that address limitations of previous studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to systematically review the diagnosis and management of temporomandibular joint synovial chondromatosis (TMJ-SC). Using a systematic study design based on the PRISMA guideline, the researchers implemented and analyzed a cohort of relevant publications indexed by PubMed, Embase, Medline, and LILACS between January 1990 and December 2022. The outcomes of interest were demographics of the primary studies, and Clinical, radiological, and therapeutic data associated with TMJ-SC. The study samples included 8 studies presenting 121 TMJ-SC cases (73.6% female; 100% unilateral; 53.7% left-sided; mean age, 43.3 ± SD 5,80 [range, 21–81]. Non-specific symptoms were mostly reported, including TMJ pain, noise and local inflammation, and/or malocclusion. Radiographically, loose bodies, masses with low-signal foci, and calcification were common charateristics. Until now, there has been no internationally accepted consensus on diagnosis and management of TMJ-SC. Arthroscopic surgery should be performed on masses confined to the superior TMJ space, while open arthroplasty is indicated in cases with the extra-articular extension. A combination of both treatment methods may be necessary, when the lesion locates extending beyond the medial groove of the condyle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Septic arthritis is a serious orthopedic surgery and delayed management causes irreparable damages. The knee is the most common site involved in septic arthritis. The purpose of this study was to determine mortality rate, adverse joint outcome and prognostic factors in adult patients diagnosed with septic arthritis of the knee who had undergone debridement surgery. Materials and methods: This retrospective cohort study was carried out using the medical records of all adult patients admitted to Sari Imam Khomeini Hospital and Sari BuAliSina Hospital between 2009 and 2019 who were treated with either arthrotomy or arthroscopic irrigation for acute septic arthritis of the knee. Patients with prosthetic joints were excluded. The rate of mortality was determined. Clinical findings, laboratory evidence, knee radiographs, and the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores (KOOS) were compared through statistical analysis to identify possible prognostic factors. Radiographic severity was classified based on the Kellgren-Lawrence grading. Results: We included 31 patients and there were 41.9% female patients (mean age= 51.1±20.56). The most common underlying diseases were hypertension (29%) and diabetes mellitus (25.8%). Staphylococcus aureus was identified in 16.1% of synovial fluid cultures. The mortality rate was 22.6%. Factors influencing mortality included older age (P=0.003), diabetes mellitus (P=0.031), fever (P=0.038), length of hospital stay (P=0.019), high C-reactive protein levels (P=0.002), low creatinine clearance (P=0.003), and type of pathogenic microorganisms (P=0.028). Age was the only factor significantly associated with higher radiographic severity (P=0.014). Conclusion: Septic arthritis is an infectious orthopedic emergency that is associated with a high mortality rate even after joint surgery and debridement. Therefore, proper management and updating information about this disease and its treatment methods are necessary.

Purpose: Septic arthritis of the native hip joint (SANH) is an uncommon surgical and medical emergency with few reports. The aim of this study was to determine predictors of return to theatre (RTT), complications and mortality. Methods: Patients with SANH were identified from January 2009 to June 2022; 50 patients and three subgroups were identified: Pyogenic (surgical washout without systemic inflammatory disease), Systemic (surgical washout with SIDs) and patients managed non-surgically. Patterns of these groups were assessed with a principal component analysis. The cumulative incidences for death, any complication and RTT for repeat washout were calculated. The predictive variables associated with outcomes were selected with univariable models and then incorporated in multivariable CoxPH regressions. Results: The 1-year cumulative incidence was 14% for mortality and 48.5% for any complication. Amongst patients managed surgically, 1-year risk of RTT was 46% in Pyogenic subgroup and 21% in Systemic subgroup. Systemic subgroup had lower complications and RTT and higher rate of sterile aspirate, compared to Pyogenic. Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) (HR = 1.41, P value = 0.03), preoperative albumin (HR = 0.81, P value = 0.009) and preoperative haemoglobin (HR = 0.95, P value = 0.02) were significantly associated with 1-year mortality. Time between symptom onset and admission > 7 days (HR = 3.15, P value = 0.042), preoperative Hb (HR = 1.05, P value = 0.016), socioeconomic deprivation (HR = 1.18, P value = 0.04) and Systemic subgroup (HR = 0.25, P value = 0.04) were significantly associated with RTT. Conclusion: Mortality was well predicted by the usual parameters including CCI, albumin, but also low haemoglobin. Patients presenting in a delayed fashion were more likely to have multiple lavages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Septic arthritis (SA) in children is an acute inflammatory disease of the joints. If not treated promptly, it could become a surgical emergency. The incidence of the disease in children in Europe is approximately 2–7 per 100,000 children. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate which of these treatments—arthrocentesis, arthrotomy, and arthroscopy—provides better results in children and when to use them. Methods: Three independent authors conducted a systematic review of PubMed, ScienceDirect, and MEDLINE databases to assess studies with any level of evidence that reported the surgical outcome of SA. Two senior investigators evaluated and approved each stage's findings. Results: A total of 488 articles were found. After screening, we chose 24 articles that were suitable for full-text reading based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The results of our analysis showed that there are no numerically significant differences reported in the literature on clinical and radiographic outcomes by surgical technique. Conclusions: We developed an algorithm that could be used if septic arthritis is suspected. Based on our results, the surgical technique to be used will depend on the operator who will perform it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To review two cohorts of children treated by two different protocols (repeated needle aspiration-lavage vs. arthrotomy) for surgical treatment of septic arthritis of the hip (SAH). Methods: In order to compare between the two methods, the following parameters were checked: (a) Scar cosmesis was assessed by the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS). We considered satisfactory results (no scar discomfort) when POSAS was within 10% of the ideal score; (b) 24-h post-operative pain was evaluated by visual analog scale (VAS); (c) Complication rates of incomplete drainage (re-arthrotomy/therapy modification from aspiration-lavage to arthrotomy). The results were evaluated by the Student t-test or by the chi-square test. Results: Seventy-nine children (aged 2–14 years) admitted during 2009–2018 and available for at least two years of follow-up were enrolled. The POSAS score (range 12–120 points) at the latest follow-up was higher in the arthrotomy group compared with the aspiration-lavage group (18.10 ± 6.22 versus 12.27 ± 1.40, p < 0.001); 77.4% of patients treated by arthrotomy had no scar discomfort. The 24-h post-intervention VAS (range 1–10) was 5.06 ± 1.29 after arthrotomy and 4.03 ± 1.13 after aspiration-lavage, p < 0.04. Complications were three times more frequent in the aspiration-lavage group (8.8% in the arthrotomy group and 26.7% in the aspiration-lavage group, p = 0.045). Conclusions: We conclude that the lower complication rate observed in the arthrotomy group outweighs by far scar cosmesis and post-operative pain advantages in the aspiration-lavage group. Arthrotomy as a drainage method is safer than aspiration-lavage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this review is to conduct an analysis of existing literature on outcomes of application of various methods of joint decompression in management of septic arthritis of the hip in children. A search of literature in PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar was conducted for identification of studies reporting on the outcomes of intervention for septic arthritis of the hip in children. Of the 17 articles selected, four were comparative studies; two of these were randomized controlled trials while the rest were single arm studies. Statistical difference was observed between the proportion of excellent clinical and radiological outcomes in arthrotomy (90%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 81-98%; 89%, 95% CI 80-98%), arthroscopy (95%, 95% CI 91-100%; 95%, 95% CI 90-99%), and arthrocentesis (98%, 95% CI 97-100%; 99%, 95% CI 97-100%), respectively. The highest overall rate of additional unplanned procedures was observed in the arthrocentesis group (24/207, 11.6%). Patients who underwent arthrocentesis had a statistically greater chance of excellent clinical and radiological outcomes, although the highest level of need for additional unplanned surgical intervention was observed in the arthrocentesis group, followed by the arthroscopy group and the arthrotomy group. Future conduct of a prospective multicentric study focusing on the developed and developing world, along with acquisition of data. such as delay of treatment and severity of disease will enable assessment of the efficacy of one technique over the other by surgeons worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Septic arthritis is a serious orthopedic surgery and delayed management causes irreparable damages. The knee is the most common site involved in septic arthritis. The purpose of this study was to determine mortality rate, adverse joint outcome and prognostic factors in adult patients diagnosed with septic arthritis of the knee who had undergone debridement surgery. Materials and methods: This retrospective cohort study was carried out using the medical records of all adult patients admitted to Sari Imam Khomeini Hospital and Sari BuAliSina Hospital between 2009 and 2019 who were treated with either arthrotomy or arthroscopic irrigation for acute septic arthritis of the knee. Patients with prosthetic joints were excluded. The rate of mortality was determined. Clinical findings, laboratory evidence, knee radiographs, and the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores (KOOS) were compared through statistical analysis to identify possible prognostic factors. Radiographic severity was classified based on the Kellgren-Lawrence grading. Results: We included 31 patients and there were 41.9% female patients (mean age= 51.1±20.56). The most common underlying diseases were hypertension (29%) and diabetes mellitus (25.8%). Staphylococcus aureus was identified in 16.1% of synovial fluid cultures. The mortality rate was 22.6%. Factors influencing mortality included older age (P=0.003), diabetes mellitus (P=0.031), fever (P=0.038), length of hospital stay (P=0.019), high C-reactive protein levels (P=0.002), low creatinine clearance (P=0.003), and type of pathogenic microorganisms (P=0.028). Age was the only factor significantly associated with higher radiographic severity (P=0.014). Conclusion: Septic arthritis is an infectious orthopedic emergency that is associated with a high mortality rate even after joint surgery and debridement. Therefore, proper management and updating information about this disease and its treatment methods are necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Explore the value of musculoskeletal ultrasound in detecting canine cruciate ligament pathology. Background: Partial tears of the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) can be difficult to diagnose due to the lack of instability present on orthopaedic examination. Advanced diagnostics would be required for further evaluation. While a common tool in human medicine, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is of limited use in canines due to cost and the need for general anaesthesia. Musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSK-US) can be performed without anaesthesia but there are no current studies to date evaluating its usefulness in detecting partial tears of the cranial cruciate ligament. Evidentiary value: This is a retrospective case series of 32 dogs that underwent diagnostic MSK-US of the stifle who later had a surgical procedure (stifle arthroscopy / arthrotomy) to evaluate the intra-articular space. Methods: Medical records were evaluated between May 2014 - April 2020 for canines with clinically stable stifles that underwent both an MSK-US of the stifle followed by stifle surgery. Ultrasound findings of the CCL were compared to surgical findings. Results: Compared to surgical findings, ultrasound was a very sensitive test in detecting CCL pathology however it is less specific. Its sensitivity (SN), specificity (SP), positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) were 100%, 58.3%, 81.5%, and 100% respectively. Conclusion: MSK-US is a non-invasive test that can be performed with little to no sedation. Using a high frequency 18-5 MHz linear transducer, MSK-US is a sensitive test for detecting partial CCL injuries in dogs and may aid in its diagnosis for canines without stifle instability and be useful in guiding treatment. As it is less specific, arthroscopy or arthrotomy would be necessary to further confirm the intra-articular pathology. Application: Diagnostic MSK-US is a non-invasive tool that can be used to detect CCL pathology in the canine stifle. Its application can help guide treatment recommendations prior to a more invasive diagnostic / therapeutic procedure such as surgery or arthroscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Explore the value of musculoskeletal ultrasound in detecting cruciate ligament pathology Background Partial tears of the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) can be difficult to diagnose due to the lack of instability present on orthopedic examination. Advanced diagnostics would be required for further evaluation. While a common tool in human medicine, MRI is of limited use in canines due to cost and the need for general anesthesia. Musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSK-US) can be performed without anesthesia but there are no current studies to date evaluating its usefulness in detecting partial tears of the cruciate ligaments Evidentiary value This is a retrospective case series (n=32) of dogs that underwent diagnostic MSK-US of the stifle who later had a surgical procedure (stifle arthroscopy/arthrotomy) to evaluate the intra-articular space. Methods Medical records were evaluated between May 2014 - April 2020 for canines with clinically stable stifles that underwent both an MSK-US of the stifle followed by stifle surgery. Ultrasound findings of the CCL were compared to surgical findings (considered gold standard). Results Compared to arthroscopy, ultrasound was a very sensitive test in detecting CCL pathology however it is less specific. Its sensitivity (SN), specificity (SP), positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) were 100%, 58.3%, 81.5%, and 100% respectively. Conclusion MSK-US is a non-invasive test that can be performed with little to no sedation. Using a high frequency 18-5MHz linear transducer, MSK-US is a sensitive test for detecting partial CCL injuries in dogs and may aid in its diagnosis for canines without stifle instability and be useful in guiding treatment. As it is less specific, arthroscopy would be necessary to further confirm the intra-articular pathology. Application Diagnostic MSK-US is a non-invasive tool that can be used to detect CCL pathology in the stifle. Its application can help guide treatment recommendations prior to a more invasive diagnostic/therapeutic procedure such as surgery or arthroscopy.

Abstract A 7‐year‐old female ostrich (Struthio camelus) presented with lameness, left intertarsal joint swelling and a healing wound on the caudomedial aspect of the joint. Synovial culture revealed Corynebacterium species and radiographs were consistent with progressive septic arthritis. Multiple treatments were attempted including through‐and‐through joint lavage, intra‐articular antibiotics, caudomedial arthrotomy, and regional limb perfusion in conjunction with systemic antibiotics and analgesia. Euthanasia was ultimately performed due to prolonged recumbency and poor prognosis. This report describes novel therapies and a surgical approach utilized for treatment of intertarsal septic arthritis in an ostrich and exemplifies the poor prognosis described in other species presenting with non‐responsive septic arthritis of critical joints.

Background: Barbed suture has become popular for closure of the arthrotomy and overlying tissues in total knee arthroplasty. STRATAFIX Symmetric PDS Knotless Tissue Control Device, a unique and novel barbed suture, with barbs formed integral to the suture core provides greater suture strength than the more common cut barbed suture designs. It is the only barbed suture commercially available with an indication in high tension areas, such as fascia. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of this novel barbed suture in the formation of a water-tight arthrotomy closure, using a continuous suture pattern, compared to conventional Coated VICRYL (polyglactin 910) Suture, using an interrupted suture pattern, in a cadaveric knee arthrotomy. Methods: Twenty fresh-frozen cadaver knees underwent randomization to provide donor-paired matching of the knee arthrotomy closures using barbed suture in a continuous pattern or conventional suture in an interrupted pattern. Each specimen underwent 5 phases of testing that included 1) predynamic static leak testing; 2) dynamic motion leak testing; 3) postdynamic static leak testing; 4) suture release static leak testing; and 5) postsuture release dynamic motion leak testing, to assess the fluid leak rate. Results: Under the initial static conditions, watertightness was similar for the 2 types of sutures. However, in all subsequent phases of testing, continuous barbed suture created a better watertight closure than interrupted conventional suture. Conclusions: In this study, it was observed that closure of a knee arthrotomy using the novel barbed suture provided improved watertightness compared to conventional interrupted closure under dynamic conditions and suture release.

Purpose: Septic arthritis is an orthopaedic emergency with high morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study is to determine the risk factors associated with secondary surgery for septic arthritis of the native knee joint. Methods: This is a retrospective study reviewing all patients who underwent surgery for septic arthritis of the knee from 2012 to 2019 in a single institution. A total of 117 patients were recruited. Patients were divided into 2 groups: Group I (79/117, 67.5%) underwent one surgery and Group II (38/117, 32.5%) underwent more than one surgery. Results: Patients with a raised initial total white (TW) cell count of > 20 × 109/L had a significantly higher risk of secondary surgery. (Adjusted hazard ratio 2.42, p < 0.05) A decline of CRP level of less than 20% within 24 h from initial operation was also a risk for secondary surgery. (Adjusted hazard ratio 0.34, p < 0.01) Patients in group II also had significantly higher post-operative median TW cell count and neutrophil count. There was no significant difference in the offending microbe, surgical approach, and duration of operation from initial presentation between the groups. Conclusions: Patients with septic arthritis of the native knee joint who present with raised initial total white cell count of > 20 × 109/L and decline of CRP level of less than 20% within 24 h from initial operation are at higher risk of secondary operation. In these patients, more aggressive treatment strategies and appropriate counselling on the risks of repeated surgery are recommended. Level of evidence: Level IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Septic arthritis (SA) of the native ankle joint can result in serious morbidity and mortality but is a poorly quantified issue with little literature available on its clinical features, treatment and outcomes. This was a 10-y review (N ≥ 30) of adults with SA of the native ankle joint presenting to a single center from December 2009 to January 2019. Patients with prior ankle surgery, prosthetic infection, inoculation from trauma, not initially treated at our institution or lost to follow-up were excluded. Thirty-six patients met inclusion criteria. This is the largest cohort of adult native ankle joint SA in the literature. Mean age was 63.5 y (range 28-93 y). Patients most often presented with pain (91.7%), swelling (61.1%), and fever (22%). Staphylococcus aureus was the most common causative pathogen (63.9%). Readmission rate was 60%. The 1-y mortality rate was 14.3% with Charlson Comorbidity Index and age identified as independent predictors of mortality. No statistically significant predictors were found for returns to theatre. When assessing ankle pain in elderly patients, and those with poor physiology, high clinical index of suspicion should be maintained for this potentially life-threatening condition. We recommend development of evidence-based clinical guidelines for adult native ankle joint SA and establishment of a prospective multi-center database to enable further research in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The hip is one of the most commonly affected joints in paediatric septic arthritis. Drainage can be performed using arthrocentesis (articular needle aspiration), arthroscopy or arthrotomy. The objective of this systematic review was to identify the most effective drainage technique for septic hip arthritis in the paediatric population. Materials and methods: The electronic MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane databases were systematically searched for original articles that reported outcomes of arthrocentesis, arthroscopy or arthrotomy for septic arthritis of the paediatric hip. Outcome parameters were additional drainage procedures, clinical outcomes and radiological sequelae. The quality of each of the included studies was assessed with the Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies (MINORS) score. Results: Out of 2428 articles, 19 studies with a total of 406 hip joints were included in the systematic review. Additional arthroscopy or arthrotomy was performed in 15% of the hips treated with arthrocentesis, in 14% after arthroscopy and in 3% after arthrotomy. Inferior clinical outcomes and more radiological sequelae were seen in patients treated with an arthrotomy. A meta-analysis could not be performed due to the diversity and low quality of the studies (MINORS median 4 [range 2–15]). Conclusions: This systematic review gives a comprehensive overview of the available literature on treatment for septic hip arthritis in children. Arthrocentesis and arthroscopic procedures may have a higher risk of additional drainage procedures in comparison with arthrotomy. However, arthrotomy might be associated with inferior outcomes in the longer term. The included studies are diverse and the scientific quality is generally low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Septic arthritis is a rare health issue during neonatal period. It should be remembered that the treatment of this disease can lead to serious problems in the long term when it is late. In this series of cases, we presented arthrotomy and washing procedures in three neonatal patients with septic arthritis. We evaluated the pros and cons of the procedure and we compared it to non-surgical treatment methods. We have concluded that the washing procedure can be more effective than non-surgical methods.

Abstract Goats or sheep are the preferred animal model for the preclinical evaluation of cartilage repair techniques due to the similarity of the goat stifle joint to the human knee. The medial femoral condyle of the stifle joint is the preferred site for the assessment of articular cartilage repair, as this is the primary location for this type of lesion in the human knee. Proper surgical exposure of the medial femoral condyle is paramount to obtain reproducible results without surgical error. When applying the standard human medial arthrotomy technique on the goat stifle joint, there are some key aspects to consider in order to prevent destabilization of the extensor apparatus and subsequent postoperative patellar dislocations with associated animal discomfort. This paper describes a modified surgical technique to approach the medial femoral condyle of the caprine stifle joint. The modified technique led to satisfactory exposure without postoperative incidence of patellar luxations and no long‐term adverse effects on the joint.

• MRI can be useful in preoperative planning of tibial plateau fractures with a high incidence of associated soft tissue injuries diagnosed. • Arthroscopy and arthrotomy can accurately diagnose and permit treatment of associated soft tissue lesions at the time of tibial plateau fracture fixation. • Surgeons who use these diagnostic methods often find concomitant injuries, and most elect to surgically treat the soft tissues. • Good to excellent results have been achieved with arthroscopy and arthrotomy techniques but the literature fails to support clear superiority. • The authors cannot recommend routine MRI, arthroscopy or arthrotomy use in the management of tibial plateau fractures. Currently there is no consensus on the need for investigating knee ligamentous and meniscal injuries in a patient with a tibial plateau fracture. Consequently, many soft tissue injuries are likely undiagnosed and therefore untreated. The impact this has on long term knee outcomes is not well defined. We aimed to identify the impacts of various diagnostic methods on the management of meniscal injuries associated with tibial plateau fractures and evaluate the clinical outcomes. We performed a systematic review using Pubmed, Medline, Embase, CINAHL and Cochrane following Cochrane guidelines. We included studies that operatively managed tibial plateau fractures and soft tissue injuries, which were diagnosed with either preoperative MRI, intra-operative arthroscopy or arthrotomy. 18 articles with 884 people, with a mean age of 46.4 years were included. Soft tissue injuries were detected on MRI (32-73%) and arthroscopy (12-70%), of which the most common were lateral meniscal injuries (7-64% of tibial plateau fractures). When identified by arthroscopy and arthrotomy, these injuries were almost always treated, either by repair or debridement. The clinical outcomes of these patients were poorly reported, with a heterogenous use of patient reported outcome measures, and follow up time points. There were no randomised trials or control groups for comparative analysis, however operative treatment yielded good to excellent outcomes. There is a high incidence of concomitant soft tissue injuries with tibial plateau fractures, particularly lateral meniscal injuries. There are 2 main approaches to meniscal injuries: surgeons who don't investigate, don't treat, whilst surgeons who do investigate often do surgically treat. Although studies that treated these injuries achieved good to excellent results, the currently available evidence doesn't confirm treatment superiority. As there is plausibility for better outcomes, randomised studies are needed to further investigate this clinical question. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

A 7‐year‐old female ostrich (Struthio camelus) presented with lameness, left intertarsal joint swelling and a healing wound on the caudomedial aspect of the joint. Synovial culture revealed Corynebacterium species and radiographs were consistent with progressive septic arthritis. Multiple treatments were attempted including through‐and‐through joint lavage, intra‐articular antibiotics, caudomedial arthrotomy, and regional limb perfusion in conjunction with systemic antibiotics and analgesia. Euthanasia was ultimately performed due to prolonged recumbency and poor prognosis. This report describes novel therapies and a surgical approach utilized for treatment of intertarsal septic arthritis in an ostrich and exemplifies the poor prognosis described in other species presenting with non‐responsive septic arthritis of critical joints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Using palmar plating to treat complex intraarticular distal radius fractures is standard of care. However, fracture fragments can also be managed using a dorsal approach with arthrotomy, which is useful when treating fractures involving the dorsal joint aspect. We compared radiological and clinical outcomes after dorsal plating with or without an intraoperative arthrotomy. Methods: 31 of the 359 patients with a distal radius fracture had an AO Type 2R3 C3 fracture surgically treated using a dorsal approach (01/2015–10/2018). Fractures other than C3 were excluded from this analysis. Group 1 (n = 14) had no arthrotomy, Group 2 (n = 17) underwent intraoperative dorsal mini-arthrotomy. Clinical results were measured by range of motion (ROM), Patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) and Disabilities of arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) scores. Radiological results were evaluated using the AO scoring system. Results: ROM, DASH and PRWE did not differ significantly between groups. Joint surface restoration was insufficient in five patients in Group 1 (p = 0.05). A trend towards better radiological results, although not statistically significant, was noted in Group 2 (p = 0.06). Plate removal was performed in 12 patients due to limited ROM (6 patients in each group). One patient (Group 2) with chronic pain and step off in the joint line underwent corrective osteotomy. Conclusions: We did not detect a difference in patient outcomes using the dorsal longitudinal mini-arthrotomy; however, it may prevent incongruent joint reconstruction since all cases occurred in Group 1. In the absence of intraoperative CT scan, longitudinal mini-arthrotomy may be used to enhance visualization and achieve joint surface reconstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To compare the arthroscopy vs. arthrotomy for the treatment of native knee septic arthritis.Methods: Electronic databases of PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library were searched for eligible studies. Retrospective comparative studies comparing arthroscopy or arthrotomy for patients with septic arthritis of the native knee were eligible for this review. The primary outcome was recurrence of infection after first procedure. The secondary outcomes included hospital length of stay, operative time, range of motion of the involved knee after surgery, overall complications and mortality rate,Results: Thirteen trials were included in this study. There were a total of 2,162 septic arthritis knees treated with arthroscopic debridement and irrigation, and 1,889 septic arthritis knees treated with open debridement and irrigation. Arthroscopy and arthrotomy management of the knee septic arthritis showed comparable rate of reinfection (OR = 0.85; 95% CI, 0.57–1.27; P = 0.44). No significant difference was observed in hospital length of stay, operative time and mortality rate between arthroscopy and arthrotomy management group, while arthroscopy treatment was associated with significantly higher knee range of motion and lower complication rate when compared with arthrotomy treatment.Conclusion: Arthroscopy and arthrotomy showed similar efficacy in infection eradication in the treatment of native septic knee. However, arthroscopy treatment was associated with better postoperative functional recovery and lower complication rate.

Introduction: Septic arthritis (SA) is the inflammation of the joints secondary to an infectious etiology, most commonly affecting the knee, hip, and shoulder. It is often an emergency condition and requires urgent intervention whether medical or surgical at the earliest. This case report highlights one such instance of timely intervention in a challenging scenario., Case Report: In this case report, we encountered a 29-day-old female neonate born at 38 weeks and 4 days to a primigravida mother with a birth weight of 2.8 kg who was diagnosed with the right knee joint SA with neonatal sepsis. The neonate was also found to be suffering with acyanotic congenital heart disease. Early arthrotomy with exploration of joint with antibiotic cover was the chosen line of treatment., Conclusion: Arthrotomy is a very good and established method to deal with SA. Early intervention is advised in these cases to ensure proper recovery without any complications., Competing Interests: Conflict of Interest: Nil, (Copyright: © Indian Orthopaedic Research Group.)

A 60-year-old diabetic patient presented with acute pain and swelling localized to the left acromioclavicular joint. Laboratory and radiological investigations revealed the presence of pus in the left acromioclavicular joint along with bony erosion of the lateral end of the left clavicle. She was treated with open arthrotomy, debridement, and appropriate antibiotics for the causative methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection. Prompt diagnosis and timely intervention can reduce the morbidity and mortality due to septic arthritis. We conducted a review of the literature on patients treated for isolated septic arthritis of the acromioclavicular joint., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Ramanan et al.)

Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of arthrotomy, when compared with arthroscopy, in the treatment of adults with septic arthritis of any joint. Methods: MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Scopus were searched to identify studies comparing arthrotomy and arthroscopy as therapeutic approaches in patients with septic arthritis of any joint. The main outcome was the re-infection rate. A meta-analysis was performed using the generic inverse variance method with random or fixed effects model depending on heterogeneity between studies. Heterogeneity was tested with the I2 statistic index. Results: Twenty studies with 10,249 patients treated by arthrotomy or arthroscopy were evaluated. We observed a significant lower risk of re-infection (odds ratio [OR], 1.35 [95% CI, 1.16–1.58]; p = 0.0002) and complications (OR, 1.32 [95% CI, 1.12–1.55]; p = 0.001) rate as well as less hospital stay (mean difference [MD], 0.57 days [95% CI, 0.10–1.05]; p = 0.02) favouring arthroscopic intervention. The subanalysis indicated that patients with knee (OR, 1.50 [95% CI, 1.17–1.92]; p = 0.001) and shoulder (OR, 1.24 [95% CI, 1.00–1.53]; p = 0.04) septic arthritis intervened by arthrotomy had a higher risk of re-infection. A lower number of hospitalization days (MD, 0.89 days [95% CI, 0.31–1.47]; p = 0.003) and a lower risk for complications (OR, 1.26 [95% CI, 1.04–1.52]; p = 0.02) were observed in patients treated with arthroscopy after septic knee arthritis. Conclusions: Available evidence suggests that patients with septic arthritis of the knee and shoulder treated by arthroscopy have less risk of re-infection than those treated by arthrotomy. The quality of the body of evidence is still insufficient to reach reliable conclusions. PROSPERO trial registration number: CRD42020176044. Date registration: April 28, 2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Intra-articular lipomas are rare and very few cases have been reported in the knee. To the best of our knowledge, here we report the largest lipoma to have ever been observed in the knee. It is crucial to avoid the misdiagnose of lipoma arborescens, which is associated with degenerative joint disease. Lipoma is a homogeneous, ovoid, adipose tissue tumor that is contained within a fibrous capsule and not associated with previous disease. Case presentation A 48-year-old male, with a soft-tissue tumor on the superomedial aspect of the right knee. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed an intra-articular lipoma. The mass was resected by means of a limited arthrotomy. Conclusions Knee lipoma is an extremely rare disease that must be diagnosed by MRI. Where possible, it should be resolved by arthroscopic resection.

For septic arthritis of the knee, we attempted to determine: the preferred surgical technique in the United-States (US), the believed "gold-standard" treatment among others. This was performed by an electronic-survey distributed to all academic orthopaedic faculty throughout the US. The preferred method was arthroscopy (69.8%). Arthroscopy is believed to be the gold-standard in 27.0%, arthrotomy in 29.4%, while 43.5% believe no gold-standard exists. In conclusion the majority of surgeons prefer arthroscopy when managing a native, septic knee in an adult patient. However, there is no national consensus on a gold-standard treatment or the role of synovectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Bagcilar Medical Bulletin / Bağcılar Tıp Bülteni is the property of Galenos Yayinevi Tic. LTD. STI and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Internal fixation of an osteochondral lesion of the talus (OLT) can restore the congruency of the talus and maintain the subchondral bone and innate hyaline cartilage. However, OLT that is indicated for fixation is rarely encountered; hence, not many studies report on the results after the procedure. Purpose: To evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes after internal fixation of chronic OLT involving a large bone fragment of at least 10 mm in diameter and 3 mm in depth on computed tomography (CT). Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the data of 26 patients with OLT treated with internal fixation between August 2014 and April 2018. Of the patients, 15 were male and 11 were female, with a mean age of 16 years (range, 11-29 years). The primary radiological outcome measurement was bone union assessed on the 6-month postoperative CT scan. Clinical outcomes were assessed at a mean of 27.7 months postoperatively. Results: Twenty patients (77%) achieved bone union on postoperative CT scan. The mean 100-mm visual analog scale (VAS) improved from 30.5 ± 8.5 preoperatively to 13.4 ± 9.7 postoperatively (P <.001). The mean Foot Function Index (FFI) improved from 30.5 ± 6.7 preoperatively to 13.7 ± 9.8 postoperatively (P <.001). A malleolar osteotomy was not necessary to approach the lesion in 88% of patients. A bone fragment with an irregular margin and low density on the preoperative CT scan was significantly associated with nonunion (odds ratio: 7.67, 95% confidence interval: 2.67 to 22.02, P =.008). The difference in clinical outcomes between patients with skeletally immature ankles and those with skeletally mature ankles was not statistically significant. Patient age did not correlate with postoperative 100-mm VAS (Pearson correlation coefficient, r = −0.07, P = 0.72) or the postoperative FFI (Pearson correlation coefficient, r = –0.05, P =.80). Conclusion: Internal fixation of an OLT involving a large bone fragment resulted in satisfactory clinical and radiologic outcomes. We found that patients with skeletally immature and mature ankles attained healing at comparable rates after the internal fixation of OLT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Arthroskopie is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose Septic knee arthritis in children can be treated by arthrocentesis (articular needle aspiration) with or without irrigation, arthroscopy or arthrotomy followed by antibiotics. The objective of this systematic review was to identify the most effective drainage technique for septic arthritis of the knee in children. Methods The electronic PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases were systematically searched for original articles that reported outcomes of arthrocentesis, arthroscopy or arthrotomy for septic arthritis of the knee. The quality of all included studies was assessed with the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) criteria. This systematic review was performed and reported according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines (PROSPERO). Results Out of 2428 articles, 11 studies with a total of 279 knees were included in the systematic review. The quality of evidence was low (MINORS median 4 (2 to 7)). A meta-analysis could not be performed because of the diversity and low quality of the studies. In septic knee arthritis, additional drainage procedures were needed in 54 of 156 (35%) knees after arthrocentesis, in four of 96 (4%) after arthroscopy and in two of 12 (17%) after arthrotomy. Conclusion Included studies on treatment strategies for septic arthritis of the knee in children are diverse and the scientific quality is generally low. Knee arthroscopy might have a lower risk of additional drainage procedures as compared with arthrocentesis and arthrotomy, with acceptable clinical outcomes and no radiological sequelae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Osteomyelitis and/or bone sequestra are commonly reported in equids following traumatic wounds. This report describes the clinical management and outcome following an arthrotomy of the temporomandibular joint of a 1‐year‐old Quarter Horse gelding with septic osteomyelitis and arthritis. Computed tomography was used for further assessment of the lesions within the temporomandibular joint and helped guide surgical planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Española de Cirugía Ortopédica y Traumatologia (English Edition) is the property of Elsevier B.V. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Septic arthritis of the elbow is a serious problem requiring prompt, accurate diagnosis and urgent surgical intervention. Achieving successful patient outcomes depends heavily on early diagnosis and efficient streamlined surgical treatment. Essential tactics for treating the septic elbow joint include immediate joint irrigation and debridement in addition to administration of appropriate antibiotics. This comprehensive review delves into the cause of the septic elbow joint, identifies associated risk factors, and provides a comprehensive approach encompassing the diagnosis and treatment of the septic elbow. The aim of this review is to optimize patient care and outcomes., Competing Interests: Disclosure The authors have nothing to disclose., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Septic arthritis of the wrist can have severe deleterious effects on cartilage and bone if not promptly addressed. Expedient diagnosis and early medical intervention are important. The most effective strategy involves immediate arthrocentesis of the infected joint, enabling precise antibiotic selection based on joint fluid analysis. Diagnostic imaging is important in excluding fractures and identifying abscesses. This review explores the etiologic factors underlying septic wrist joint, identifying risk factors, and delineating optimal diagnosis and treatment approaches. The overarching goal is to impart valuable insights and guidance in the management of septic wrist joint, ensuring the highest quality patient care and optimal clinical outcomes., Competing Interests: Disclosure The authors have nothing to disclose., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Adipose tissue is a rich source of stem cells, which are reported to represent 2% of the stromal vascular fraction (SVF). The infrapatellar fat pad (IFP) is a unique source of tissue, from which human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) have been shown to harbour high chondrogenic potential. This review aims to calculate, based on the literature, the culture time needed before an average knee articular cartilage defect can be treated using stem cells obtained from arthroscopically or openly harvested IFP. Firstly, a systematic literature review was performed to search for studies that included the number of stem cells isolated from the IFP. Subsequent analysis was conducted to identify the amount of IFP tissue harvestable, stem cell count and the overall yield based on the harvesting method. We then determined the minimum time required before treating an average-sized knee articular cartilage defect with IFP-derived hADSCs by using our newly devised equation. The amount of fat tissue, the SVF cell count and the stem cell yield are all lower in arthroscopically harvested IFP tissue compared to that collected using arthrotomy. As an extrapolation, we show that an average knee defect can be treated in 20 or 17 days using arthroscopically or openly harvested IFP-derived hADSCs, respectively. In summary, the systematic review conducted in this study reveals that there is a higher amount of fat tissue, SVF cell count and overall yield (cells/volume or cells/gram) associated with open (arthrotomy) compared to arthroscopic IFP harvest. In addition to these review findings, we demonstrate that our novel framework can give an indication about the culture time needed to scale up IFP-derived stem cells for the treatment of articular cartilage defects based on harvesting method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stiffness of the elbow is a relatively common problem that can result in disability. The elbow is prone to stiffness after injury or surgery and there is limited scope for compensatory motion in the shoulder and wrist. Despite advances in knowledge of the pathogenesis of elbow contractures and the development of new treatment regimens, elbow stiffness remains a challenging problem. To regain functional elbow motion several non-operative and operative treatments are available. Non-operative treatment modalities consist of static and dynamic splinting, both having comparable results and a low risk of complications. Surgical release is performed open or arthroscopically, depending on the severity of the contracture, the presence of concomitant pathology of the ulnar nerve and osseous deformity, as well as the surgeon's preference. The open lateral column procedure has been the gold standard for a number of years. With the increasing popularity and experience of arthroscopy, a shift is seen towards arthroscopic capsular release for some indications. Outcomes of both techniques are largely comparable, with low complication rates, although the rate of complications increases with the extent of the surgical procedure. With regard to the rehabilitation programme after surgical release, different protocols are used in different hospitals and countries and may include extensive physical therapy with or without the use of continuous passive motion. The current recommendation is to continue postoperative rehabilitation as long as the range of motion is improving and until no further increase is expected. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of the aetiology, treatment, rehabilitation options and outcome of elbow stiffness. Current treatment options are discussed and future perspectives are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Meniscal cysts are rare in Stoller grade II horizontal lesions. Several techniques are described in the literature for their management, without any real gold standard. The objective of this work was to report a series of meniscal sutures associated with cyst resection by arthrotomy. The hypothesis was that the results were satisfactory and comparable with the data in the literature regardless of the technique reported without morbidity added by arthrotomy.Materials and Methods: This was a monocentric retrospective study on 13 patients, aged 33 on average with a grade II meniscus lesion associated with a cyst (9 lateral and 4 medial menisci). Pre-operative data available was the VAS (5.7/10) and the Lysholm score (61/100). Primary endpoints were as follows: pain (visual analogue scale), global satisfaction, Lysholm functional score, and return to sports and professional activities at a minimum of two years. Secondary endpoints were complications, possible recurrence, and/or surgical revision. Recurrences, complications, and surgical recovery were gathered.Results: Patients were evaluated with an average follow-up of 32 months. All patients were satisfied or very satisfied. The VAS significantly improved (0.2/10, p < 0.05) as well as the Lysholm score (97/100, p < 0.05). All patients returned to their professional activity: 11 within two months, one within six weeks, and one in the first post-operative week (this patient being a student). Only one patient did not resume pre-operative sport level due to a femoropatellar syndrome, not linked to the meniscal surgery performed. However, only 11 patients resumed their previous sport level (84.6%). No recurrence or surgical revision occurred.Discussion: The results are good and similar to the literature, confirming the working hypothesis. These results are equivalent to partial meniscectomies and arthroscopic sutures associated with a procedure on the cyst by arthroscopy or arthrotomy. The literature is in favour of a procedure on the cyst.Conclusion: The results confirm the effectiveness of a direct approach suture of non-transfixing meniscal lesions associated with a cyst resection with a good functional recovery, without additional morbidity. The hypothesis was confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acute native septic arthritis is a joint-threatening emergency. To date, however, no gold-standard treatment nor joint-specific treatment algorithms exist. We aimed to evaluate the etiologies, bacterial spectrum, treatments, and surgical outcomes of septic arthritis of the shoulder and knee. Methods: Seventy-one patients with septic arthritis of either the knee (n = 42) or the shoulder (n = 29) were followed over a mean period of 40 months (26-65). Data were collected according to the performed surgical procedure and pathway as well as the cause of infection, bacterial spectrum, and the Gächter classification. The prospective clinical examination included the Knee Society Score (KSS) or Constant Score (CS; shoulder group), pre- and post-operative pain, and return to previous activity. Results: Septic arthritis was caused primarily by post-interventional or post-traumatic conditions in the knee group and by hematogenous infection in the shoulder group. Staphylococcus aureus and S. epidermidis were most common, whereas Propionibacerium. were seen only in shoulder infections. Remission rates were 95% in the knee versus 90% in the shoulder group, whereas the mortality rate in the shoulder group was 10% (no one died in the knee group). While most knee infections could be managed with an arthroscopic approach, all shoulder infections necessitated an open approach. The mean KSS was 87.3 (49-100); the mean CS was 66.6 (37-95). Fifty percent of patients in the shoulder group versus 71% in the knee group reached their previous level of activity. Conclusion: The knee group exhibited post-interventional etiology, in line with high-virulence microbes and a high success rate with arthroscopic restoration. Septic shoulder arthritis showed hematogenous scattering, low-virulent microbes, and multiple interventions with a final open approach was always required. In contrast to the knee, in septic arthritis of the shoulder, a significant reduction in function has to be expected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To compare complications following arthroscopy and arthrotomy for treatment of septic knee arthritis. Patients undergoing arthroscopy and arthrotomy for a diagnosis of septic knee arthritis were identified in National Surgical Quality Improvement Program and placed in a multivariate analysis to determine if type of surgery contributed to postoperative complications. Knee arthrotomy was associated with an increased risk for increased operative time [Parameter estimate 4.555 (95% CI:3.023–6.085); p < 0.0001], minor morbid events [OR 2.064 (95% CI: 1.447–2.943); p < 0.0001], and any morbidity [OR 2.285 (95% CI:1.527–3.419); p < 0.0001]. Knee arthrotomy was associated with a higher risk of complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The objective of this study was to define the volume (mLs) needed for a positive saline load challenge test in anterolateral (AL), anteromedial (AM), posterolateral (PL), or posteromedial (PM) ankle arthrotomy wounds using normal saline (NS) and methylene blue (MB). Another objective was to evaluate the use of fluoroscopy and iodinated contrast in the diagnosis of ankle arthrotomies. Methods: Four cadaveric ankle specimens underwent standardized arthrotomy creation in either the AL, AM, PL, or PM portion of each specimen. An 18-gauge needle was used to inject fluid into each ankle, and the volumes needed for positive fluid challenges were recorded. All 4 ankles were tested 10 times (n = 40) with NS and 10 times using MB (n = 40). A fifth cadaveric ankle was injected with radiopaque contrast solution, and an arthrotomy was simulated and imaged with fluoroscopy.Statistical analyses compared the volumes of NS and MB needed for a positive test. In addition, the 25th, 50th, 75th, 90th, and 95th percentiles of volumes needed for a positive test was calculated. Results: The volume of fluid necessary to detect 25%, 50%, 75%, 90%, and 95% of ankle arthrotomies from any site was 2.0 mL, 4.5 mL, 9.0 mL, 10 mL, and 10 mL, respectively. Anterior arthrotomies required less fluid (2.1 mL ± 0.5) than posterior arthrotomies (9.0 mL ± 1.2) for a positive test (P <.0001). There was no difference between the amount of NS (5.5 mL ± 3.6) vs MB (5.6 mL ± 3.7) needed for a positive challenge test (P =.739). Conclusion: Ninety-five percent of ankle arthrotomies could be diagnosed with 10 mL of injected fluid; there was no difference between the volume of NS vs MB needed. Fluoroscopy assisted with needle placement and can be combined with radiopaque contrast solution to diagnose ankle arthrotomies. Clinical Relevance: The findings of this study may improve sensitivity and efficiency in the diagnosis of traumatic ankle arthrotomies, for which there is currently a paucity of literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Empyema of the wrist is a rare but serious condition in hand surgery. The diagnostics are challenging due to higher incidences of the differential diagnoses and relies heavily on the anamnesis and clinical findings. For the treatment, in addition to classical arthrotomy, an arthroscopic approach is also justified in mild cases, always in combination with antibiotic treatment. The long-term results essentially depend on the stage of the inflammation and the delay before initiating treatment, so that a timely diagnosis is paramount. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]