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Management of persistent symptomatic scapulothoracic abnormal motion (STAM) in the absence of periscapular muscle paralysis may be challenging. This study reports the outcomes of arthroscopic pectoralis minor release and scapulopexy for the management of symptomatic STAM secondary to pectoralis minor hyperactivity and serratus anterior hypoactivity in the absence of periscapular paralysis.This was a retrospective cohort study with prospectively collected data of patients with symptomatic STAM secondary to pectoralis minor hyperactivity and serratus anterior hypoactivity. Surgery was indicated if patients failed 6 months of conservative management. Patient outcomes were assessed with shoulder range of motion (ROM) measurements, numerical pain scale, shoulder subjective value (SSV), and Constant score. Data were analyzed with Fischer's exact test for categorical variables and Student's t-test of unequal variance for continuous and categorical variables.Thirty-one consecutive patients were included in the study period between 2017 and 2020. Average age at the time of surgery was 24 years (range, 14-44 years), 80% of patients were female, and average follow-up after surgery was 23 months (range, 15-39 months). Thirteen patients also had a diagnosis of recurrent posterior instability. At final follow-up, 81% reported significant improvements in their STAM, as demonstrated by improved mean pain scale, ROM, SSV, and Constant scores. Pain improved from 6 (range, 4-10) to 2 (range, 1-4), SSV from 30% (range, 10%-40%) to 75% (range, 60%-100%), and Constant score from 49 (range, 43-61) preoperatively to 79 (range, 51-100) postoperatively (P.01). All 13 patients with recurrent associated posterior instability had resolution of their instability. Flexion ROM improved from average 100° (range, 60°-150°) to 140° (range, 120°-160°). One patient had traumatic rupture of her scapulopexy 7 weeks postoperatively and underwent revision scapulopexy. Thirteen percent had minimal improvement after surgery and experienced recurrence 3 months postoperatively.In patients with symptomatic STAM secondary to pectoralis minor hyperactivity and serratus anterior hypoactivity, arthroscopic pectoralis minor release and scapulopexy is an effective surgical option.

Background Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) affects the length and moment arm of the deltoid and rotator cuff. Currently, RSA is commonly considered for cuff-intact conditions, such as primary glenohumeral osteoarthritis. As such, understanding the effect of contemporary lateralized designs on the rotator cuff is paramount. The purpose of this study was to determine changes in length and moment arm of the subscapularis, infraspinatus and teres minor with implantation of one of 3 RSA designs. Methods A previously validated model was used in 6 hemi-toraces with the shoulder attached. Suture lines were run through pneumatic cylinders from the insertion to the origin of 10 muscles to apply a constant, stabilizing load. Electromagnetic tracking sensors were fixed to the thorax, scapula, and humerus to record 3-dimensional kinematics. Coordinate systems were established according to ISB recommendations. The origin and insertion of the subscapularis, infraspinatus and teres minor were digitized and tracked. Testing consisted of manually rotating the humerus through 5 cycles of its internal-external rotation arc. Kinematic data was collected at 120 Hz. Testing was performed in 3 positions of abduction: 0°, 30°, and 60°. After testing the intact shoulder, RSA was performed using 3 different configurations: an onlay 135-degree humeral component matched with a 2-mm lateralized glenosphere, the same humeral component with a 6-mm lateralized glenosphere, and an inlay 135-degree humeral component matched with a 10 mm lateralized glenosphere. Minimal muscle operative lengths, maximal muscle operative lengths, and muscle moment arms were computed. Results When compared with the native shoulder, all 3 configurations of RSA resulted in statistically significant increases in both the minimal and maximal operative lengths of the subscapularis in all abduction positions. The teres minor only showed a statistically significant increase in minimal and maximal length at 60° of abduction. The infraspinatus showed a statistically significant increase in tendon excursion at 0° and 30° of abduction. In 40° of abduction and 40° of internal rotation, all RSA configurations translated in a decreased subscapularis internal rotation moment arm. On the contrary, RSA increased the external rotation moment arm of the infraspinatus in neutral rotation and 0° of abduction. Conclusion Implantation of contemporary lateralized RSA implants led to increased length of the subscapularis to a greater extent than the increased length experienced by the infraspinatus and teres minor. The moment arm of the subscapularis decreased, whereas the moment arm of the teres minor in neutral rotation with the arm in abduction increased. Level of Evidence Level III

The trapezius muscle produces upward scapular rotation that in turn allows complete lateral elevation (abduction) by maintaining the acromiohumeral distance and the deltoideus resting length. Loss of trapezius function leads to shoulder drooping, loss of scapular external rotation with secondary loss of abduction. When conservative treatment has failed and in cases where nerve surgery is not indicated, the most common procedure for treating this condition is the Eden-Lange (EL) procedure. This procedure entails transferring the levator scapulae (LS) to the lateral part of the scapular spine, and the rhomboid major (RM) and minor (Rm) to the infraspinatus fossa to restore the lost trapezius function. Recently, Elhassan et al. proposed a modification of the original EL procedure to recreate the line of pull of the different parts of the trapezius muscle. The modified transfer may yield successful outcomes in patients with trapezius paralysis who failed to improve after well-conducted conservative treatment. Longer follow-up is needed to confirm the stability of the good outcomes of this reconstruction.

Endoprosthetic or allograft reconstruction are the preferred reconstruction techniques for proximal humeral bone tumors. Failure of these reconstructions may occur, but historically revision is performed rarely due to the lack of reliable options. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty with an allograft prosthetic composite (rAPC) may provide a revision option. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate our institutional outcome of these procedures.Eleven (6 male, 5 female) patients (mean age 51 ± 17 years) underwent revision of a failed oncologic reconstruction of the proximal humerus utilizing a rAPC. The most common indication for revision was subluxation (n = 6) and the most common previous implant was an endoprosthesis (n = 5).Revision resulted in improvements in shoulder elevation (39° vs. 62°, p = 0.02), external rotation (13° vs. 25°, p = 0.04), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (39 vs. 58, p = 0.004) and Musculoskeletal Tumor Society Scores (51% vs 69%, p = 0.002). There were 2 re-revision procedures performed. One for an allograft fracture and one for allograft resorption and loosening.Revision with a rAPC can effectively restore patient function. Due to the complexity of the cases, we advocate for these procedures to be performed by subspecialty upper extremity surgeons trained in complex revision shoulder arthroplasty.

Patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) have high rates of shoulder instability, which place them at increased risk for instability-related arthropathy. Many studies have assessed outcomes for both primary and revision shoulder instability procedures in this patient population, but there is a paucity of data regarding the outcome of shoulder arthroplasty in EDS patients. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the results and complications of shoulder arthroplasty (SA) performed in a cohort of patients with EDS and compare them to a matched cohort of patients with no EDS.Over an 11-year period, 10 patients with EDS were identified at a single institution who underwent primary SA (6 anatomic total shoulder arthroplasties [aTSAs], 4 reverse shoulder arthroplasties [RTSAs]). Shoulders were evaluated at a mean follow-up of 60 months (range 25-97 months). This cohort was matched 1:2 based on age, sex, and year of surgery, with patients who underwent SA for either primary osteoarthritis (OA) for aTSA or cuff tear arthropathy for RTSA. EDS patients had a mean age of 55 years, mean body mass index of 26.1, and were all female. The primary outcome measures were postoperative pain, range of motion, complications, and reoperations.SA produced similar postoperative pain, range of motion, complications, and reoperations in patients with EDS vs. controls. EDS patients improved pre- to postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) pain score (6.5 to 1.7, P.001), elevation (96° to 138°, P = .04), and external rotation (36° to 57°, P = .16). Three EDS patients sustained postoperative complications (2 instability and 1 acromial fracture); however, no shoulder was reoperated.EDS patients undergoing SA can expect outcomes comparable to patients with primary OA or cuff tear arthropathy, with clinically meaningful improvements in pain and range of motion. Although EDS patients had no statistically significant increase in complications when compared to controls, their absolute rate of overall complications (3/10 patients; 30%) and postoperative instability (2/10 patients; 20%) in this small case series was relatively high and should be considered when performing SA.

Rotator cuff pathology is the most common shoulder condition for which patients seek treatment. Schmidt et al covered the relevant anatomy, natural history, nonsurgical and surgical treatment, biological augmentation, and postoperative rehabilitation in their comprehensive review published in 2015. This current review builds upon the last update, discussing the most recent evidence-based medicine regarding rotator cuff repair: primary repair, revision repair, and reconstructive techniques for superior capsular reconstruction, subacromial balloon spacers, tendon transfer options (pectoralis major, latissimus dorsi, and lower trapezius), and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty.

INTRODUCTION The proximal humerus is a common location for primary and non-primary tumors. Reconstruction of the proximal humerus is commonly performed with an endoprosthesis with low rates of structural failure. The incidence and risk factors for stress shielding are under reported. METHODS Thirty-nine (19 male, 20 female) patients underwent resection of the proximal humerus and reconstruction with a cemented modular endoprosthesis between 2000 and 2018. The mean resection length was 12 ± 4 cm and was most commonly performed for metastatic disease (n = 26, 67%). RESULTS Stress shielding was observed in 9 (23%) patients at a mean of 29 (6-132) months postoperatively. Patients with stress shielding were noted to have shorter intramedullary stem length (87 vs. 107 mm, p

Background The purpose of this study is to report the outcome of arthroscopically assisted lower trapezius transfer to reconstruct irreparable posterior-superior rotator cuff tear. Methods Forty-one consecutive patients with irreparable posterior-superior rotator cuff tears who underwent an arthroscopically assisted transfer of the lower trapezius transfer were included in this study. The patients’ average age was 52 years (range 37-71), and average follow-up was 14 months (range 6-19 months). Nineteen patients had true pseudoparalysis preoperatively, whereas 66% had a prior failed rotator cuff repair. Outcome measures included visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, range of motion, Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score. Results Thirty-seven (90%) patients had significant improvement of all outcome scores: VAS, SSV, and DASH. The presence of a subscapularis tear did not affect the outcome. However, 3 patients who had preoperative rotator cuff arthropathy changes of the shoulder had persistent pain and limited range of motion of the shoulder after surgery, and 2 of them underwent reverse shoulder arthroplasty. Two additional patients had a traumatic rupture of the transfer as a result of fall (at 5 and 8 months postop). One underwent revision arthroscopic repair and did well after surgery, and the other had good pain relief but recurrent weakness and limited range of motion, and elected not to have a revision surgery. Conclusions Arthroscopic-assisted lower trapezius transfer may lead to a good outcome in patients with massive irreparable posterior-superior rotator cuff tears, including patients with pseudoparalysis. The presence of an associated reparable subscapularis tear did not affect the outcome.

Background Allograft-prosthetic composite (APC) reconstruction of the proximal humerus is a technique for reconstruction of large bone deficits, provides improvement in pain and function, and is thought to restore bone if revision surgery is needed. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of proximal humeral APCs to restore usable bone at the time of revision surgery. Methods Two institutional electronic medical records were reviewed to evaluate proximal humeral APC procedures performed between 1970 and 2018. We identified 115 cases, of which 14 underwent revision for aseptic causes. The indications for revision included nonunion (n = 7), glenohumeral instability (n = 5), and allograft fracture (n = 2). Three categories were used to classify the amount of usable allograft retained at revision surgery: type A, complete allograft retention; type B, partial retention; and type C, no retention. Results A total of 14 patients (6 male and 8 female patients) underwent revision of the APC reconstruction at a mean of 22.8 months. At revision, allograft retention was classified as type A in 6 shoulders, type B in 3, and type C in 5. Type A cases were associated with nonunion with a well-fixed stem, type B cases were associated with instability and were converted from a hemiarthroplasty to a reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, and type C cases were associated with an allograft fracture or nonunion with a loose humeral component. Conclusion A substantial number of revisions of proximal humeral APC reconstructions maintain a portion of the allograft bone (64.3%). This study supports the ongoing use of the APC reconstruction technique for large bone deficits.

The Tikhoff-Linberg procedure is a limb salvage technique for tumours of the shoulder girdle which preserves function of the hand and elbow; however, shoulder function is limited. A humeral cap endoprosthesis (Stryker Orthopedics, Mahwah, NJ, USA) was developed within the Modular Replacement System (MRS) to act as a functional spacer for these defects; however, the outcomes of this implant have not been described. Thirty-three (17 male, 16 female) patients underwent a Tikhoff-Linberg procedure at our institution. Of these, 17 (11 females, 6 males) were reconstructed with a MRS humerus endoprosthesis. Outcomes and complications were compared between patients who were reconstructed (n = 17) and those who were not (n = 16). Complications occurred in 14 (42%) patients, with more complications in patients who were reconstructed (n = 11, 65% vs. n = 3, 19%, p = 0.01). Endoprosthetic complications included stress shielding of the bone/prosthesis interface (n = 7, 41%) and subluxation/instability (n = 5, 29%), leading to a revision surgery in two (12%). Post-operatively, the mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society Score (MSTS93) was 67 ± 11%, with no difference in the mean MSTS93 between patients who were reconstructed and those who were not (67 ± 10% vs. 68 ± 12%, p = 0.77). Reconstruction with a MRS humerus cap endoprosthesis resulted in a high rate of complications following a Tikhoff-Linberg procedure. Stress shielding and subluxation were common, and as such, the use of this prosthesis is limited to cases where a standard implant is not a feasible option.

Background To compare latissimus dorsi tendon rupture rates after arthroscopic transfer for posterior superior rotator cuff tear using 3 different humeral head fixation techniques. Methods One-hundred fifty consecutive latissimus dorsi transfers were included. Inclusion criteria were massive irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tear with advanced fatty infiltration associated with persistent pain and limited range of motion after failed conservative treatments or surgery. All transfers were arthroscopically assisted and fixed in a transosseous tunnel with a cortical button (group 1, n = 59), “over the top” onto the footprint of the supraspinatus (group 2, n = 47), or posteriorly onto the footprint of the infraspinatus (group 3, n = 44) with 2 suture anchors. The tendons were marked with 3 metallic clips placed intraoperatively at a fixed distance of 2, 4, and 6 cm from the tip. Immediate postoperative standard anteroposterior radiographs were performed to confirm the position of the clips and to determine whether the clips displaced on subsequent radiographs during follow-up, indicating tendon rupture. Results Repeat radiographs at 3-month follow-up showed higher risk of latissimus dorsi transfer rupture rate in 27/59 patients in group 1 (46%), 11/47 in group 2 (24%), and 7/44 in group 3 (15%). Conclusion Posterior anchor fixation of the latissimus dorsi tendon onto the infraspinatus footprint had the lowest rupture rate.

Muscle tendon transfers (MTTs) are effective surgical procedures for reducing pain and for improving active shoulder range of motion and patient-reported outcomes for a wide range of pathologies, including serratus anterior and trapezius muscle palsy, irreparable subscapularis tears, irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears, irreparable posterior rotator cuff tears in the setting of reverse shoulder arthroplasty, and symptomatic complete deltoid deficiency.The principles of MTT include ensuring that the transferred muscle is expendable, the muscle tendon unit has similar excursion, the line of pull of the transferred tendon and of the recipient muscle are similar in terms of biomechanical force, and the transferred muscle should replace at least 1 grade of strength of the deficient recipient muscle.When MTT procedures are considered, patients must have exhausted all nonoperative management, have preserved passive range of motion, and have an understanding of the postoperative expectations and potential complications.For patients with scapulothoracic abnormal motion (STAM) due to long thoracic nerve palsy, the indirect or direct pectoralis major tendon transfer is an effective procedure for reducing pain and improving active forward elevation. For patients with STAM due to spinal accessory nerve palsy, the Eden-Lange or the triple tendon transfer procedures reduce pain and improve active forward elevation and abduction as well as patient-reported clinical outcomes.Both pectoralis major and latissimus dorsi transfer procedures for isolated irreparable subscapularis deficiency without anterosuperior humeral head escape result in improvement with respect to pain, patient-reported outcomes, and forward elevation, with the pectoralis major tendon transfer demonstrating durable long-term outcomes.The latissimus dorsi or lower trapezius tendon transfer procedures for irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears reliably improve patient-reported outcomes, forward elevation, abduction, and external rotation range of motion. Additionally, latissimus dorsi transfer with or without teres major transfer can be used to restore active external rotation, both in the native shoulder and in the setting of reverse shoulder arthroplasty.The complications of MTTs include infection, hematoma, and failure of tendon transfer healing; therefore, it is recommended that these complex procedures be performed by shoulder surgeons with appropriate training.

In the setting of irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears (PSRCTs), lower trapezius transfer (LTT) may be anatomically better positioned for restoring the muscular force couple compared with latissimus dorsi transfer (LDT). The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effect of LTT and LDT on glenohumeral kinematics using a dynamic shoulder model.Ten fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders (mean age: 56.5 ± 17.2 years) were tested using a dynamic shoulder simulator. The maximum abduction angle (MAA), superior humeral head migration (SHM), and cumulative deltoid forces (CDFs) were compared across 4 conditions: (1) native; (2) irreparable PSRCT; (3) LTT using an Achilles tendon allograft; and (4) LDT. MAA and SHM were measured using 3-dimensional motion tracking. CDF was recorded in real time throughout the dynamic abduction motion by load cells connected to actuators.Compared to the native state, the PSRCT resulted in a significant decrease (Δ-24.1°; P .001) in MAA, with a subsequent significant increase after LTT (Δ13.1°; P .001) and LDT (Δ8.9°; P .001). LTT achieved a significantly greater MAA than LDT (Δ4.2°; P = .004). Regarding SHM, both LTT (Δ-9.4 mm; P .001) and LDT (Δ-5.0 mm; P = .008) demonstrated a significant decrease compared with the PSRCT state. LTT also achieved significantly less SHM compared with the LDT (Δ-4.4 mm; P = .011). Further, only the LTT resulted in a significant decrease in CDF compared with the PSRCT state (Δ-21.3 N; P = .048), whereas LTT and LDT showed similar CDF (Δ-11.3 N; P = .346). However, no technique was able to restore the MAA, SHM, and CDF of the native shoulder (P .001, respectively).LTT and LDT both achieved a significant increase in MAA along with significantly less SHM compared with the PSRCT state. Although LTT required significantly less compensatory deltoid forces compared with the PSRCT state, this was not observed for the LDT. Further, the LTT prevented loss of abduction motion and SHM more sufficiently. In the challenging treatment of irreparable PSRCTs, LTT may restore native glenohumeral kinematics more sufficiently, potentially leading to improved postoperative functional outcomes.

Scaphoid proximal pole fractures remain a surgical challenge because of high propensity for nonunion, osteonecrosis, and ultimately carpal collapse. Options for management of nonsalvageable proximal pole fractures include non-vascularized bone grafts, vascularized pedicled bone grafts, free vascularized bone flaps, and rib cartilage grafts. The proximal pole of the hamate can also serve as a replacement arthroplasty in the setting of proximal pole scaphoid nonunions with collapse, bone loss, and/or osteonecrosis. This novel graft addresses shortcomings of other graft choices by providing a local structural autograft solution with minimal donor site morbidity, correcting carpal collapse, reconstructing the scapholunate ligament, and mitigating the need for microvascular anastomosis.

Background The early results of reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) were influenced to some extent by the use of first-generation implants and surgeons’ learning curves, resulting in relatively high reoperation rates. The purpose of this study was to quantify the burden of and identify the indications for reoperation after primary RSA using contemporary implants and techniques. Methods A retrospective review of 1649 primary RSAs implanted consecutively between 2009 and 2015 at a single institution was conducted. All arthroplasties were performed by 5 fellowship-trained shoulder surgeons at a tertiary referral center. Demographic characteristics, indications for primary RSA, and reoperations were analyzed and categorized for trends associated with each type of reoperation performed. Results A total of 39 reoperations (2.37%) were performed for a variety of indications. Overall, only a few patients with infection or instability required reoperation (0.55%). The most common indications for reoperation were related to the humeral component (1.03%); the majority of humeral component complications were related to a specific design flaw of 1 implant system. RSAs performed for proximal humeral fracture sequelae more commonly underwent reoperation owing to instability or humeral component–related issues; all 4 cases of aseptic humeral stem loosening occurred in the setting of proximal humeral fracture sequela treatment. Only 0.36% of all primary RSAs required reoperation because of glenoid complications. Conclusions Primary RSA performed with contemporary implants and surgical techniques seems to be associated with a very low rate of reoperation. The most common reasons for reoperation were humeral component fracture for 1 particular implant, humeral loosening, dislocation, infection, and glenoid failure, each occurring at a rate under 1%.

Our study aimed to report the short-term outcomes of patients who underwent partial ulnar head replacement and distal radial ulnar joint interposition arthroplasty. From 2012 to 2016, nine patients underwent this procedure with mean follow-up of 27 months (range 12–55). Seven of the nine patients had previously undergone surgical intervention on the ipsilateral wrist. The procedure resulted in substantial improvements in pain and function. Mayo Wrist Score improved from 37 preoperatively to 73 postoperatively, and six patients achieved a good or excellent outcome. Visual analogue pain scores decreased from 7 preoperatively to 1 postoperatively. Grip improved from 20 kg preoperatively to 30 kg postoperatively. There was no significant change in wrist range of motion. Two patients underwent revision surgery to improve wrist motion. We conclude that over short-term follow-up the procedure provides a feasible option for distal radial ulnar joint arthritis.Level of evidence: IV

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical effectiveness regarding scapulothoracic (ST) upward rotation of two different tendon transfer procedures involving the levator scapulae, rhomboid major, and rhomboid minor to restore the function of the paralyzed trapezius.Six fresh frozen hemithoraces were mounted on a custom-built apparatus. A three-dimensional electromagnetic tracking system was used to record ST upward/downward rotation of the (1) normal trapezius, levator scapulae, rhomboid minor, and rhomboid major; (2) Eden-Lange (EL) transferl and (3) a modified EL transfer (triple transfer).The normal trapezius was found to be an upward rotator of the scapula and led to a mean ST rotation angle of 26.98°. Similarly, the modified triple transfer led to an upward rotation of the scapula, with a mean ST rotation angle of 22.23°, whereas the EL led to an initial downward rotation of the scapula to -6.69°, with a mean scapulothoracic displacement angle of 1.13°.The upward rotation of the scapula from the modified transfer mimicked the function of the normal trapezius better than did the traditional EL transfer.Level V, biomechanical study.

Background There continues to be controversy regarding the treatment of early-stage arthritis of the wrist, particularly in young patients, because of the large number of techniques, the poor long-term results for many of these techniques, and the overall paucity of high-level scientific data. Proximal row carpectomy (PRC) and 4-corner arthrodesis (4CA) have been established as the mainstay motion-sparing surgical treatment options in cases of early scapholunate advanced collapse and scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse arthritis. However, there is marked controversy surrounding the best treatment option for younger patients with greater physical demands because of the questionable outcomes associated with these motion-sparing options in such patients1-9. Traditionally, many surgeons prefer 4CA over PRC for young, high-demand patients, in part because studies have suggested that young age and work status as a laborer are important risk factors for worse outcomes following PRC1,8. However, the concern for symptomatic nonunion and potential for radiolunate arthritis in 4CA, as well as the lack of medium to long-term comparative studies in this subset, make this recommendation controversial10. Description The wrist is accessed via the dorsal approach, creating a retinacular flap and a radially based ligament-sparing capsulotomy. The scaphoid, lunate, and triquetrum are then excised en bloc. The radioscapholunate ligament is protected. The capsule and retinaculum and then repaired. Alternatives Alternatives to PRC include nonoperative treatment, 4CA, capitolunate arthrodesis, posterior and anterior interosseous neurectomies, total wrist arthroplasty, and total wrist arthrodesis. Rationale A recent study by Wagner et al. compared patients

MRI is a valuable diagnostic tool that has become an essential part of an orthopaedic surgeon's practice. When acquired in the appropriate clinical setting, an MRI can direct patient management as surgical versus nonsurgical, guide surgical decision making, and even predict patient outcomes. The quality of MRI obtained and quality of the radiology report received varies. Ultimately, the orthopaedic surgeon must interpret the available imaging and apply these findings to treat the patient. The current day practicing orthopaedic surgeon should be familiar with interpreting common MRIs. Although subspecialized orthopaedic surgeons usually have experience and understanding of MRIs in their field, the general orthopaedic surgeon and those in-training will encounter the gamut of musculoskeletal MRIs. This review focuses on common injuries that can occur in the elbow and provides an approach to minimize missed findings.

Peripheral nerve and brachial plexus injuries are life-altering events, given the extensive compromise in shoulder, arm, and hand function. When these injuries do not recover, or attempts at nerve reconstructions fail to restore various functions of the upper extremity, patients are often left quite limited in their daily lives. Tendon transfers have been established in the hand and wrist as very successful options for many patients with peripheral nerve injuries isolated to one specific nerve or motor distribution. In recent years, tendon transfers around the shoulder and elbow have shown tremendous promise in restoring function what was traditionally very hard to treat proximal peripheral nerve lesions or upper trunk brachial plexus injuries. There are many important considerations when deciding on the appropriate tendon transfer option for these patients. Keeping these considerations in mind, we will review various types of shoulder, elbow, and hand functional deficits and the various tendon transfer options to reconstruct each one.

INTRODUCTION The proximal humerus is a common site of primary and metastatic disease in the upper extremity. Historically, the goal of a hemiarthroplasty reconstruction was to provide a stable platform for hand and elbow function, with limited shoulder function. Techniques utilizing a reverse endoprosthesis (endoprosthetic replacement [EPR]) and allograft-prosthetic composite (APC) have been developed; however, there is a paucity of comparative studies. METHODS A total of 83 (42 females, 41 males) patients undergoing an intraarticular resection of the humerus were reviewed. Reconstructions included 30 reverse and 53 hemiarthroplasty; including hemiarthroplasty EPR (n = 36) and APC (n = 17), and reverse EPR (n = 20) and APC (n = 10). RESULTS Reverse reconstructions had improved forward elevation (85° vs. 44°, p

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW: Functionally irreparable rotator cuff tears (FIRCTs) remain one of the most challenging pathologies treated in the shoulder. The lower trapezius transfer represents a very promising treatment option for posterosuperior FIRCT. This article reviews the role for the lower trapezius transfer in the treatment of patient with FIRCTs and highlights the tips and tricks to performing this arthroscopic-assisted procedure. RECENT FINDINGS: The treatment of posterosuperior FIRCTs contemplates a wide array of surgical options, including partial repair, biceps tenodesis/tenotomy, superior capsule reconstruction, subacromial balloon, reverse shoulder arthroplasty, and open-/arthroscopic-assisted tendon transfers. Tendon transfers have emerged as very promising reconstructive options to rebalance the anterior-posterior force couple. Controversy remains regarding the relative indications of latissimus dorsi transfer (LDT) and lower trapezius transfer (LTT). Initially used with very good success in patients with brachial plexus injuries, the open LTT has shown excellent clinical and radiographic outcomes in a recent series of patients with FIRCTs. However, this technique should be reserved for patients with an intact or reparable subscapularis tendon and no advanced glenohumeral arthritis or humeral head femoralization. With advancements in surgical technique, the arthroscopic-assisted LTT has shown similar promising results. However, studies on arthroscopically assisted LTT are limited to short-term follow-up, and future comparative trials with large patient numbers and longer follow-up are needed to better understand the indications for this novel tendon transfer in the treatment of FIRCT. SUMMARY: The arthroscopic-assisted LTT is a novel, promising option for the treatment of patients with functional irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears. Careful attention to indications and technical pearls are paramount when performing this procedure to optimize postoperative clinical outcomes.

Irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears are a challenging treatment problem. Several tendon transfers have been described for the treatment of irreparable tears. Recently the lower trapezius (LT) tendon transfer has grown in popularity. This procedure has shown promise in biomechanical studies, improving the external rotation moment arm at the side. This transfer may be done in several ways, including an open approach with an acromial osteotomy, mini-open, and arthroscopic-assisted. The purpose of this paper is to review the current evidence and rationale for the use of the LT transfer and to describe the available techniques.

Background Loss of active shoulder internal rotation can be very disabling. Several tendon transfers have been described for the management of an irreparable subscapularis (SSC) tear. The purpose of this study was to determine and compare the internal rotation moment arm (IRMA) of the sternal head of the pectoralis major (PM), latissimus dorsi (LD), and teres major (TM) when transferred to different insertion sites to restore shoulder internal rotation with and without reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA). Methods Six fresh-frozen right hemithoraces were prepared and evaluated using a custom tendon transfer model to determine the IRMA of different tendon transfers using the tendon and joint displacement method. Five tendon-transfer pairs were modeled using a single suture and tested before and after implantation of an RSA (Comprehensive; Zimmer-Biomet, Warsaw, IN, USA): PM to the insertion site of the SSC, LD to the anterior insertion site of the supraspinatus (SSP) tendon on the greater tuberosity, LD to SSC, TM to SSP, and TM to SSC. The SSC was not repaired at the end of the RSA procedure to simulate an SSC deficiency. The PM transfer was passed under the conjoined tendon when tested on the intact shoulder and above the conjoined tendon when tested with an RSA. Results Tendon transfers were shown to have a significant effect on IRMA. The effect of transferred tendons was significantly affected by the position of the humerus. With the humerus adducted, the IRMA of the TM-SSP (14.1 mm ± 3.1 mm) was significantly greater than the other transfers. With the humerus abducted to 90°, the IRMAs of the LD-SSP (30.0 mm ± 5.4 mm) and TM-SSP (28.4 mm ± 6.6 mm) were significantly greater than the IRMAs of other transfer options. The IRMA of the native shoulder differed significantly from that of the RSA state for all tendon transfers. With the humerus adducted to the side of the body, the IRMA of the RSA PM-SSC transfer was significantly greater than that without an RSA (19.0 mm ± 6.4 mm vs. 7.1 mm ± 0.9 mm), demonstrating increased efficiency for internal rotation in the RSA state. Conclusion Tendon transfers to restore shoulder internal rotation differ in effectiveness and may be affected by arm position and by implantation of a lateralized humerus/lateralized glenoid RSA. The LD potentially results in superior restoration of shoulder internal rotation in a native shoulder (given the risk of nerve compression with the TM transfer) compared with PM and should be considered as a potential tendon transfer to restore internal rotation in selected patients. In combination with a lateralized humerus/lateralized glenoid RSA, the fulcrum provided by the biomechanics of the semiconstrained implant allows the PM transfer to become a more efficient tendon transfer to restore active internal rotation.

To outline the technical details and determine the ranges of two pedicled functioning flaps that are the upper pectoralis major (UPM) and latissimus dorsi (LD) to elucidate their respective indications with regards to deltoid impairment. The UPM and LD bipolar transfers were performed in 14 paired cadaveric shoulders, one on each side. The UPM was flipped 180° laterally over its pedicle to be placed onto the anterior deltoid. The LD flap was elevated on its pedicle to be rotated and positioned onto the deltoid mid-axis. Their respective spans were defined according to the deltoid muscle origin and insertion. The UPM outreached the lateral edge of the anterior deltoid origin with a mean distance of 7.3 cm (range 4–9.1 cm) off the lateral edge of the clavicle. Distally, the flap consistently overcame the proximal end of the deltoid tuberosity for a mean distance of 2.1 cm (range 0.9–3.2 cm). The LD flap mdi-axis could be consistently placed onto the deltoid mid-axis; spans of the anterior and posterior borders of the LD flap averaged 1 cm (range − 1 to 2.3 cm) and 0.2 cm (range −1.8 to 1.9 cm), respectively. The UPM flap optimal indications would be cases with deltoid defects limited to its anterior portion, whereas the LD bipolar transfer could be used in more extensive lesions. Additionally, the distal span of both transfers appears to allow their use in the setting of a reverse shoulder arthroplasty with subsequent humeral lengthening. Non-applicable—basic science study, cadaver dissection.

Irreparable rotator cuff tears are challenging in the young, active, high-demand patient with limited degenerative changes. The goal of treating irreparable rotator cuff tears is to re-establish the transverse and coronal force couples in an effort to balance the glenohumeral joint. Tendon transfer surgery is a viable option in patients desiring not only pain relief, but also for improvements in range of motion, strength, and function. Isolated posterosuperior tears can effectively be addressed with a lower trapezius tendon transfer. The procedure has the ability to reverse external rotation pseudoparalysis with restoration of strength. An arthroscopically assisted lower trapezius tendon transfer has recently been described and is the senior author's Bassem T. Elhassan (B.T.E.) preferred technique to address irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears. The advantages of the arthroscopically assisted compared to the open technique are its less invasive nature, which decreases the risk of hematoma and seroma, speeds recovery, and avoids the need for an acromial osteotomy or detachment of the deltoid muscle. Nonetheless, a thorough understanding of the anatomy around the shoulder girdle, sufficient arthroscopic skill, and careful patient selection are imperative for optimizing outcomes.

Lower trapezius tendon transfer with Achilles tendon allograft augmentation may be used to treat patients with lack of active external rotation following shoulder paralysis or massive irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears. In the setting of shoulder paralysis, the integrity of the ipsilateral lower trapezius may be compromised. In this instance, the contralateral lower trapezius may be used with reasonable results. In the setting of irreparable rotator cuff tears, the procedure may be performed through an open or arthroscopically assisted technique. The latter avoids the need for an acromial osteotomy and risk of nonunion associated with repair of the osteotomy. Both are effective in reversing pseudoparesis or pseudoparalysis. Advanced degenerative changes have an effect on outcomes, resulting in less pain improvement, decreased range of motion, and greater need for reoperation with conversion to reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. Nonetheless, the lower trapezius tendon transfer is an effective option for restoring active external rotation with relatively consistent results.Der Transfer der unteren Trapeziussehne mit Augmentation durch ein Achillessehnen-Allotransplantat kann zur Therapie von Patienten mit mangelnder aktiver Außenrotation nach Schulterlähmung oder massiven irreparablen posterosuperioren Rotatorenmanschettenrupturen eingesetzt werden. Bei Vorliegen einer Schulterlähmung kann die Integrität des ipsilateralen unteren M. trapezius beeinträchtigt sein. In diesem Fall kann der kontralaterale M. trapezius mit akzeptablen Ergebnissen verwendet werden. Liegt eine irreparable Rotatorenmanschettenruptur vor, so kann die Therapie über eine offene Operation oder arthroskopisch erfolgen. Bei Letzterer werden die Notwendigkeit einer akromialen Osteotomie und das Risiko einer Pseudarthrose bei deren Heilung vermieden. Beide Verfahren eignen sich zur Beseitigung einer Pseudoparese oder Pseudoparalyse. Fortgeschrittene degenerative Veränderungen wirken sich auf das Ergebnis aus, führen zu einer geringeren Schmerzlinderung, vermindertem Bewegungsumfang und höherem Bedarf an Reoperationen mit Konversion zur reversen totalen Schulterarthroplastik. Trotzdem stellt der Transfer der unteren Trapeziussehne eine wirksame Option zur Wiederherstellung der aktiven Außenrotation mit relativ konstanten Ergebnissen dar.

Objective Patients receiving dialysis are at increased risk for lower extremity amputations (LEAs) and postoperative morbidity. Limited studies have examined differences in 30-day outcomes of mortality and health care use after amputation or the preoperative factors that relate to worsened outcomes in dialysis patients. Our objective was to examine dialysis dependency and other preoperative factors associated with readmission or death after LEA. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted of dialysis-dependent and nondialysis patients undergoing major LEA in the 2012 to 2013 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program. Primary outcomes included death and hospital readmission within 30 days of amputation. Results Of 6468 patients, 1166 (18%) were dialysis dependent. The dialysis cohort had more blacks (39% vs 23%), diabetes (76% vs 58%), below-knee amputations (62% vs 55%), and in-hospital deaths (8% vs 3%; all P Conclusions Readmission or death after amputation is increased among dialysis patients. Predicting which dialysis patients are at highest risk for death is feasible, whereas predicting which will require readmission is less so. Risk factor identification may improve risk stratification, inform reimbursement policies, and allow targeted interventions to improve outcomes.

Background: Distal radius fractures are common, and the trend in fixation has included the use of locked volar plating. The duration of splinting required after surgery and the effect splinting has upon outcome of the wrist are not clear. Our aim was to compare outcome of patients treated with early versus late motion protocol after volar plating. Methods: Thirty-three patients with distal radius fractures were prospectively and randomly enrolled into an early versus late motion study including volar plating of the distal radius fracture. Early motion included an active and passive wrist motion protocol by 14 days after surgery and delayed motion was initiated at 5 weeks. Fractures were defined as intra-articular and extra-articular, and those with, and without, ulnar styloid fracture. Motion and outcome scores (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand [DASH]/patient-rated wrist evaluation [PRWE]), and strength were measured through 1 year. Results: Wrist motion, DASH, and PRWE scores were only significantly different at 6 weeks with no significant differences at any later time points up to 1 year. One patient had complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) and one had adhesive capsulitis in the late motion group. Conclusions: Following locked volar plating of distal radius fractures, early motion favored earlier return of motion along with lower DASH, PRWE, and pain scores within first 6 weeks. Although the late motion group had delayed recovery, there were no long-term significant differences in motion, strength, outcome, or pain scores. The 2 cases with complications (CRPS and adhesive capsulitis) did occur in the late motion group and may implicate late motion with these problems.

High-pressure injection injuries of the hand are rare, but potentially devastating injuries. The amount of tissue damage is dependent on the magnitude of the pressure generated by the device and the composition of the injected material. The standard of care is emergent surgical debridement of the injected material and devitalized tissue. Although, preoperative advanced imaging is not routinely pursued, MRI may be helpful in determining the anatomic distribution of the foreign material, and associated soft tissue or osseous injury. We present a case of a 28-year-old male with complications related to a high-pressure grease injection injury to his non-dominant hand. The MRI demonstrated peculiar imaging features of retained grease deposits and played an important role in surgical planning.

The influence of preoperative rotator cuff fatty infiltration (FI) and muscle atrophy (MA) on the postoperative outcome of total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) has only rarely been investigated and reported in the literature. We hypothesized that more FI and MA would be associated with a worse postoperative functional outcome.This prospective cohort study included 63 patients (31 female and 32 male patients; mean age, 71 years [range, 53-89 years; standard deviation, 7 years]) with primary osteoarthritis of the shoulder operated on with anatomic stemless TSA. Preoperatively and at 3 months and 1 year after the operation, the functional outcome (QuickDASH [short version of Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire] score) and range of motion (ROM) (goniometer) and strength (dynamometer) for abduction at the scapular plane and for external rotation were measured. The degree of preoperative FI and MA was evaluated using computed tomography scans according to the Goutallier classification and Warner classification, respectively, for the supraspinatus and infraspinatus.We found clinically and statistically significant improvements in functional outcome, strength, and ROM at both 3 months and 1 year of follow-up compared with those preoperatively. The Pearson correlation coefficient (r) showed significant correlations between preoperative supraspinatus and infraspinatus FI and MA and preoperative and 1-year postoperative shoulder abduction and external rotation strength but not ROM. However, we found no influence of the rotator cuff FI and MA on the functional outcome after TSA.We demonstrated a significant correlation between rotator cuff FI and MA and strength but not ROM of the shoulder joint.

Background Subscapularis (SSC) tendon tears are a challenging problem because they can significantly alter shoulder mechanics and function. Tendon retraction and advanced fatty degeneration associated with a chronic tear may make it irreparable. Tendon transfers options for such tears are viable, but results in the setting of associated glenohumeral instability are inconsistent. With the potential to recreate the SSC line of pull, the teres major (TM) may be a viable option for transfer. This cadaveric study investigated the feasibility and outlined the steps of a bipolar, pedicled TM transfer for irreparable SSC tendon tears. Methods Eight fresh frozen cadaver torsos from 4 women and 4 men (average age, 84 years; range, 68-96 years) were dissected. Anatomic details comparing TM to SSC were examined, including muscle width, length, thickness, and line of pull in the scapular plane. In addition, a surgical technique was described for implementing the pedicled TM transfer. Results Measurements between the TM and SSC were comparable, with the exception of muscle belly width, which was significantly greater in the SSC. With transfer of the TM, there was no impingement or tension on the brachial plexus or the neurovascular pedicle of the TM. The line of pull of the TM relative to the SSC had a difference of 9°. Conclusions This study demonstrates that a bipolar TM tendon transfer is an anatomically feasible option for reconstruction of an irreparable SSC tendon tear. Further clinical studies are necessary to understand its outcome in in vivo conditions.

Glenohumeral arthrodesis is associated with a high rate of complications. Although patients experience reasonable pain relief and shoulder stability, they experience marked limitations in their upper-extremity function. The purpose of this study was to examine the clinical outcomes of glenohumeral arthrodesis.Twenty-nine patients with 29 affected shoulders underwent primary glenohumeral arthrodesis between 1992 and 2009. Surgical indications included rotator cuff arthropathy and pseudoparalysis (n = 7), neurologic injuries (n = 12), chronic infection (n = 3), recurrent dislocations (n = 3), and proximal humeral or shoulder girdle tumors (n = 4). Surgical fixation techniques included plates and screws in 18 patients and screws only in 11 patients.All patients were examined, with a mean follow-up of 12 years (range, 2 to 22 years). Twelve patients (41%) had postoperative complications, including 6 periprosthetic fractures, 7 nonunions, and 3 infections. Eleven patients (38%) required additional surgical procedures after arthrodesis, including revision internal fixation to achieve glenohumeral fusion after nonunions (n = 7), irrigation and debridement with antibiotic treatment for deep infections (n = 2), open reduction and internal fixation to treat fracture (n = 2), and implant removal to treat symptomatic patients (n = 3). Patients experienced reasonable overall pain relief. The mean postoperative scores were 35 points for the Subjective Shoulder Value, 58 points for the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, and 54 points for the Short Form-36. Eighty-seven percent of patients reported postoperative limitations. Patients with neurologic injuries had worse functional outcomes, and an arthrodesis position of ≥25° yielded better functional outcomes.Glenohumeral arthrodesis is associated with a high rate of patients with complications (41%). Although patients experience reasonable pain relief and shoulder stability, they experience marked limitations in their upper-extremity function.Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Tendon transfer procedures provide treatment options for younger patients without significant glenohumeral arthritis with irreparable rotator cuff tears (RCT). These interventions can restore the glenohumeral joint force couple, allowing restoration of near-normal shoulder kinematics. Benefits include reliable pain relief, increased function, and increased strength. Proper selection of donor tendon is crucial, and the principles of tendon transfer procedures must be adhered to for maximal benefit. The purpose of this article is to provide evidence-based techniques to reconstruct massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears.

Resume Introduction Dans les cas de disjonctions acromio-claviculaires chroniques, les proprietes biomecaniques des reconstructions anatomiques sont plus proches de l’etat physiologique que celles des techniques de type Weaver-Dunn ; par consequent, les resultats radiocliniques sont superieurs. Cependant, un site chirurgical additionnel est necessaire pour le prelevement du greffon, augmentant la morbidite de l’intervention. Hypothese Une reconstruction triple-faisceaux est realisable avec le ligament coraco-acromial (LCA) et le semi-tendon conjoint (STC). Materiel et methodes Six cadavres frais congeles furent disseques de maniere bilaterale. Une etude des mensurations utiles a la procedure etait realisee sur un premier cote, avec notamment la taille minimum necessaire de greffon et leur longueur disponible. De l’autre cote, etait realisee l’intervention ; le STC, laisse pedicule proximalement, etait passe a travers la base coracoidienne, puis divise en deux bandelettes tendues depuis la face superieure du genou coracoidien jusqu’au zones d’insertions claviculaires des ligaments conoide et trapezoide. Le LCA etait lui detache du processus coracoide pour etre fixe en rappel dans le canal medullaire de la clavicule, apres resection de son quart externe (i.e., 10 mm). Resultats Les longueurs moyennes de STC et de LCA etaient de 101,7 ± 7,6 mm (95,1–114,5) et de 35,3 ± 4,7 mm (28,7–42,5), respectivement. La longueur de STC necessaire pour une telle reconstruction etaient de 58 ± 4,3 mm (51,5–62) en medial et 60,3 ± 4,6 mm (54,3–66,3) en lateral. Ainsi, l’intervention put etre realisee dans tous les cas, avec un exces de longueur moyen de 39,9 ± 5,7 mm (32,2–47) pour le faisceau conoide, 37,6 ± 5 mm (31–45,1) pour le trapezoide et 6 ± 2,7 mm (3–9,5) pour le LCA. Discussion Une reconstruction anatomique triple-faisceaux utilisant le STC et le LCA est donc faisable ; son evaluation biomecanique est necessaire avant une potentielle mise en application clinique. Niveau de preuve Non applicable – Etude cadaverique.

Background Management of shoulder arthritis associated with deltoid paralysis can be very challenging. The purpose of this study was to report the outcome of reverse shoulder arthroplasty with pedicled pectoralis transfer to reconstruct the anterior deltoid in patients with symptomatic shoulder arthritis and a paralyzed deltoid. Methods This study included 31 patients with an average age of 51 years (range, 27-73 years). All patients had chronic deltoid paralysis with significant loss of function due to progressive arthritis associated with rotator cuff deficiency. All patients underwent reverse shoulder arthroplasty with pedicled pectoralis muscle transfer. Additional transfers were performed in patients with no preoperative external rotation: 5 underwent latissimus transfer, and 3 underwent direct lower trapezius transfer to the infraspinatus. Results At an average follow-up of 37 months, 29 patients had significant improvements in pain; the shoulder subjective value; the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score; and shoulder range of motion, mainly flexion of 83° and external rotation of 15°. Two patients sustained postoperative acromial fractures and had persistent pain after surgery with minimal improvement in shoulder flexion and external rotation. One of them had a failed attempt at open reduction–internal fixation of the acromion. Conclusion Reverse shoulder arthroplasty with pedicled pectoralis transfer is a promising procedure that may lead to improved pain and function in patients with shoulder arthritis associated with deltoid paralysis.

Resume Objectif Le but de cette etude etait de determiner la fonction de l’epaule a moyen/long terme de patients atteints d’une paralysie complete du deltoide avec coiffe des rotateurs intacte. Vingt-sept patients avec un recul minimum de 2 ans ont ete inclus. Materiels et methodes L’evaluation comprenait la mesure de la douleur, des mobilites (comprenant le swallowtail test [STT], le deltoid extension lag test [DELT] et le test de Bertelli), la fatigabilite subjective de l’epaule atteinte et le score postoperatoire de Neer modifie. Resultats Au recul moyen de 68 mois, l’abduction moyenne etait de 131°, la flexion moyenne de 153°, la rotation externe coude au corps de 58° et la rotation externe avec le bras en abduction de 58°. Tous les patients rapportaient une fatigabilite rapide a l’utilisation repetee du bras atteint, qui n’evoluait pas dans le temps. Le score moyen de douleur etait de 2. Dix-huit patients avaient des tests STT et DELT positifs et tous les patients avaient un test de Bertelli positif. Conclusions Cette etude demontre que les patients ayant une paralysie du deltoide avec une coiffe des rotateurs intacte conservent l’essentiel de la fonction de leur epaule et ce resultat se maintient dans le temps. Niveau de preuve Niveau IV ; etude pronostique : case series.