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Background: Although initial studies have demonstrated that concentrated bone marrow aspirate (cBMA) injections promote rotator cuff repair (RCR) healing, there are no randomized prospective studies investigating clinical efficacy. Hypothesis/Purpose: To compare outcomes after arthroscopic RCR (aRCR) with and without cBMA augmentation. It was hypothesized that cBMA augmentation would result in statistically significant improvements in clinical outcomes and rotator cuff structural integrity. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. Methods: Patients indicated for aRCR of isolated 1- to 3-cm supraspinatus tendon tears were randomized to receive adjunctive cBMA injection or sham incision. Bone marrow was aspirated from the iliac crest, concentrated using a commercially available system, and injected at the aRCR site after repair. Patients were assessed preoperatively and serially until 2 years postoperatively via the following functional indices: American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), Simple Shoulder Test, 12-Item Short Form Health Survey, and Veterans RAND 12-Item Health Survey. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed at 1 year to assess rotator cuff structural integrity according to Sugaya classification. Treatment failure was defined as decreased 1- or 2-year ASES or SANE scores as compared with preoperative baseline, the need for revision RCR, or conversion to total shoulder arthroplasty. Results: An overall 91 patients were enrolled (control, n = 45; cBMA, n = 46): 82 (90%) completed 2-year clinical follow-up and 75 (82%) completed 1-year MRI. Functional indices significantly improved in both groups by 6 months and were sustained at 1 and 2 years (all P <.05). The control group showed significantly greater evidence of rotator cuff retear according to Sugaya classification on 1-year MRI (57% vs 18%; P <.001). Treatment failed for 7 patients in each group (control, 16%; cBMA, 15%). Conclusion: cBMA-augmented aRCR of isolated supraspinatus tendon tears may result in a structurally superior repair but largely fails to significantly improve treatment failure rates and patient-reported clinical outcomes when compared with aRCR alone. Additional study is warranted to investigate the long-term benefits of improved repair quality on clinical outcomes and repair failure rates. Registration: NCT02484950 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) has demonstrated mixed clinical outcomes in randomized controlled trials when compared with hyaluronic acid (HA), an accepted nonsurgical treatment for symptomatic OA. Biological analysis of PRP has demonstrated an anti-inflammatory effect on the intra-articular environment. Purpose: To compare the clinical and biological effects of an intra-articular injection of PRP with those of an intra-articular injection of HA in patients with mild to moderate knee OA. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. Methods: A total of 111 patients with symptomatic unilateral knee OA received a series of either leukocyte-poor PRP or HA injections under ultrasound guidance. Clinical data were collected before treatment and at 4 time points across a 1-year period. Synovial fluid was also collected for analysis of proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory markers before treatment and at 12 and 24 weeks after treatment. Several measures were used to assess results: (1) Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) pain subscale; (2) International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective knee evaluation, visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, and Lysholm knee score; and (3) difference in intra-articular biochemical marker concentrations. Results: There were 49 patients randomized to treatment with PRP and 50 randomized to treatment with HA. No difference was seen between the groups in the primary outcome measure (WOMAC pain score). In the secondary outcome measure, linear contrasts identified a significantly higher IKDC score in the PRP group compared with the HA group at 24 weeks (mean ± standard error [SE], 65.5 ± 3.6 vs 55.8 ± 3.8, respectively; P = .013) and at final follow-up (52 weeks) (57.6 ± 3.37 vs 46.6 ± 3.76, respectively; P = .003). Linear contrasts also identified a statistically lower VAS score in the PRP group versus the HA group at 24 weeks (mean ± SE, 34.6 ± 3.24 vs 48.6 ± 3.7, respectively; P = .0096) and 52 weeks (44 ± 4.6 vs 57.3 ± 3.8, respectively; P = .0039). An examination of fixed effects showed that patients with mild OA and a lower body mass index had a statistically significant improvement in outcomes. In the biochemical analysis, differences between groups approached significance for interleukin-1β (mean ± SE, 0.14 ± 0.05 pg/mL [PRP] vs 0.34 ± 0.16 pg/mL [HA]; P = .06) and tumor necrosis factor α (0.08 ± 0.01 pg/mL [PRP] vs 0.2 ± 0.18 pg/mL [HA]; P = .068) at 12-week follow-up. Conclusion: We found no difference between HA and PRP at any time point in the primary outcome measure: the patient-reported WOMAC pain score. Significant improvements were seen in other patient-reported outcome measures, with results favoring PRP over HA. Preceding a significant difference in subjective outcomes favoring PRP, there was a trend toward a decrease in 2 proinflammatory cytokines, which suggest that the anti-inflammatory properties of PRP may contribute to an improvement of symptoms. Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT02588872). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Various research efforts have studied concussions in the National Football League, Major League Baseball, and the National Hockey League. However, no study has investigated the incidence and return-to-play trends in the National Basketball Association (NBA), which this study aims to do. Hypothesis: Increased media scrutiny and public awareness, in addition to the institution of a league-wide concussion protocol, may have resulted in more conservative return-to-play practices. Study Design: Descriptive epidemiology study. Methods: All concussions to NBA players that were publicly reported in the media from the beginning of the 2006 NBA season to the end of the 2014 season were included. The incidence and return-to-play statistics were generated by synthesizing information from publicly available records. Results: There were 134 publicly reported concussions to NBA players from the beginning of the 2006 season to the conclusion of the 2014 season, resulting in an average of 14.9 concussions per season. The incidence has not changed significantly during this time span. The average games missed after a concussion from 2006 to 2010 was 1.6, significantly less than the 5.0 games missed from 2011 to 2014, following the institution of the NBA concussion protocol (P = .023). Conclusion: Although the incidence of publicly reported concussions in the NBA has not changed appreciably over the past 9 seasons, the time missed after a concussion has. While players often returned in the same game in the 2006 season, the combination of implemented policy, national coverage, medical staff awareness, and player education may have contributed to players now missing an average of 4 to 6 games after a concussion. A multitude of factors has resulted in more conservative return-to-play practices for NBA players after concussions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The optimal platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for treatment of supraspinatus tendinopathy has not been determined. Purpose: To evaluate the effect of low- versus high-leukocyte concentrated PRP products on catabolic and anabolic mediators of matrix metabolism in diseased rotator cuff tendons. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: Diseased supraspinatus tendons were treated with PRP made by use of 2 commercial systems: Arthrex Autologous Conditioned Plasma Double Syringe System (Llo PRP) and Biomet GPS III Mini Platelet Concentrate System (Lhi PRP). Tendon explants were placed in 6-well plates and cultured in Llo PRP, Lhi PRP, or control media (Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle Medium + 10% fetal bovine serum) for 96 hours. Tendons were processed for hematoxylin-eosin histologic results and were scored with the modified Bonar scale. Group 1 tendons were defined as moderate tendinopathy (Bonar score <3); group 2 tendons were assessed as severely affected (Bonar score = 3). Transforming growth factor β–1 (TGFβ-1), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), and matrix metalloproteinase–9 (MMP-9) concentrations in PRP media were measured by use of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay after 96 hours of culture with diseased tendon. Tendon messenger RNA expression of collagen type I (COL1A1), collagen type III (COL3A1), cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), MMP-9, MMP-13, and IL-1β was measured with real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Results: Leukocytes and platelets were significantly more concentrated in Lhi PRP compared with Llo PRP. Increased IL-1β was present in Lhi PRP after culture with group 1 tendons. IL-6 was increased in Lhi PRP after culture with group 2 tendons. Both TGFβ-1 and MMP-9 were increased in Lhi PRP after culture with either tendon group. In Llo PRP cultures, IL-1Ra:IL-1β in PRP used as media and COL1A1:COL3A1 gene expression were increased for group 1 tendon cultures. Gene expression of MMP-9 and IL-1β was increased in group 2 tendons cultured in Llo PRP. There was no significant difference in the expression of MMP-13 or COMP in either group of tendons cultured in Llo PRP or Lhi PRP. Conclusion: Llo PRP promotes normal collagen matrix synthesis and decreases cytokines associated with matrix degradation and inflammation to a greater extent than does Lhi PRP in moderately degenerative tendons. In severely degenerative tendons, neither PRP preparation enhanced matrix synthesis. Clinical Relevance: Llo PRP may promote healing in moderately degenerative rotator cuff tendons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article looks at the effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and high molecular weight hyaluronan on the expression of anabolic and catabolic genes. It highlights hyaluronan as a commonly used intra-articular therapy to improve patient pain and function scores. The use of PRP in sports medicine practices to treat bone, tendon, and ligament injuries is discussed. It is also found that both PRP and hyaluronan can modulate osteoarthritis in similar ways but through different mechanisms.

The article reports a study which was conducted to evaluate the outcomes of autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) in Study of the Treatment of Articular Repair (STAR) patients with osteochondritis dissecans (OCD).The results revealed that patients with OCD of the knee had statistically significant pain reduction and functional improvement for up to 48 months after ACI. This indicates that ACI is a viable treatment option for complex and severe OCD lesions of the knee.

Background: Previous studies of bioactive molecules in platelet-rich plasma (PRP) have documented growth factor concentrations that promote tissue healing. However, the effects of leukocytes and inflammatory molecules in PRP have not been defined.Hypothesis: The hypothesis for this study was that the concentration of growth factors and catabolic cytokines would be dependent on the cellular composition of PRP.Study Design: Controlled laboratory study.Methods: Platelet-rich plasma was made from 11 human volunteers using 2 commercial systems: Arthrex ACP (Autologous Conditioned Plasma) Double Syringe System (PRP-1), which concentrates platelets and minimizes leukocytes, and Biomet GPS III Mini Platelet Concentrate System (PRP-2), which concentrates both platelets and leukocytes. Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), platelet-derived growth factor–AB (PDGF-AB), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).Results: The PRP-1 system consisted of concentrated platelets (1.99×) and diminished leukocytes (0.13×) compared with blood, while PRP-2 contained concentrated platelets (4.69×) and leukocytes (4.26×) compared with blood. Growth factors were significantly increased in PRP-2 compared with PRP-1 (TGF-β1: PRP-2 = 89 ng/mL, PRP-1 = 20 ng/mL, P < .05; PDGF-AB: PRP-2 = 22 ng/mL, PRP-1 = 6.4 ng/mL, P < .05). The PRP-1 system did not have a higher concentration of PDGF-AB compared with whole blood. Catabolic cytokines were significantly increased in PRP-2 compared with PRP-1 (MMP-9: PRP-2 = 222 ng/mL, PRP-1 = 40 ng/mL, P < .05; IL-1β: PRP-2 = 3.67 pg/mL, PRP-1 = 0.31 pg/mL, P < .05). Significant, positive correlations were found between TGF-β1 and platelets (r2 = .75, P < .001), PDGF-AB and platelets (r2 = .60, P < .001), MMP-9 and neutrophils (r2 = .37, P < .001), IL-1β and neutrophils (r2 = .73, P < .001), and IL-1β and monocytes (r2 = .75, P < .001).Conclusion: Growth factor and catabolic cytokine concentrations were influenced by the cellular composition of PRP. Platelets increased anabolic signaling and, in contrast, leukocytes increased catabolic signaling molecules. Platelet-rich plasma products should be analyzed for content of platelets and leukocytes as both can influence the biologic effects of PRP.Clinical Relevance: Depending on the clinical application, preparations of PRP should be considered based on their ability to concentrate platelets and leukocytes with sensitivity to pathologic conditions that will benefit most from increased platelet or reduced leukocyte concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: There are currently several approaches being pursued to treat focal defects of articular cartilage, each having specific advantages or challenges. A single-stage procedure that uses autologous cartilage fragments, Cartilage Autograft Implantation System (CAIS), is being evaluated in patients and may offer a clinically effective option.Purpose: To establish the safety of CAIS and to test whether CAIS improves quality of life by using standardized outcomes assessment tools.Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 2.Methods: Patients (n = 29) were randomized (1:2) with the intent to treat with either a control (microfracture [MFX]) or an experimental (CAIS) procedure. Patients were followed at predetermined time points for 2 years using several standardized outcomes assessment tools (SF-36, International Knee Documentation Committee [IKDC], Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score [KOOS]). Magnetic resonance imaging was performed at baseline, 3 weeks, and 6, 12, and 24 months.Results: Lesion size and International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) grade were similar in both groups. General outcome measures (eg, physical component score of the SF-36) indicated an overall improvement in both groups, and no differences in the number of adverse effects were noted in comparisons between the CAIS and MFX groups. The IKDC score of the CAIS group was significantly higher (73.9 ± 14.72 at 12 months and 82.95 ± 14.88 at 24 months) compared with the MFX group (57.78 ± 18.31 at 12 months and 59.5 ± 13.44 at 24 months). Select subdomains (4/5) in the KOOS instrument were significantly different at 12 and 18 months, and all subdomains (Symptoms and Stiffness, Pain, Activities of Daily Living, Sports and Recreation, Knee-related Quality of Life) were significantly increased at 24 months in CAIS with scores of 88.47 ± 11.68, 90.64 ± 7.87, 97.29 ± 3.8, 78.16 ± 22.06, and 69 ± 23.15 compared with 75 ± 9.31, 78.94 ± 13.73, 89.46 ± 8.13, 51.67 ± 26.01, and 37.15 ± 21.67 in the MFX group. These significant improvements were maintained at 24 months in both IKDC and KOOS. Qualitative analysis of the imaging data did not note differences between the 2 groups in fill of the graft bed, tissue integration, or presence of subchondral cysts. Patients treated with MFX had a significantly higher incidence of intralesional osteophyte formation (54% and 70% of total number of lesions treated) at 6 and 12 months when compared with CAIS (8% and 25% of total number of lesions treated).Conclusion: The first clinical experience in using CAIS for treating patients with focal chondral defects indicates that it is a safe, feasible, and effective method that may improve long-term clinical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses different surgical treatment options for articular cartilage defects of the knee. The management options include palliative or debridement, reparative and restorative techniques, including osteochondral grafting and autologous chondrocyte implantation. It is noted that decision-making regarding the treatment choice is done case by case and is guided by the patient's physical and physiological demand level, previous failed treatment and the location and size of the defect.

Both mechanical and biological factors influence the high re-tear rate after rotator cuff repair. Mechanical factors have largely been addressed by the introduction of better implants and modification of suture configuration, but further improvements are needed to address the often poor tissue quality of the degenerated rotator cuff tendons. Current biological solutions provide only short-term reinforcement and have been associated with pseudo-infectious reactions. This pre-clinical animal study investigates the biological response to a novel polycarbonate polyurethane patch used for tissue augmentation in a rat rotator cuff repair model. Bilateral defects were created in the supraspinatus tendons of 12 Sprague Dawley rats. One side was repaired with a patch as a tissue augmentation device. The contralateral side acted as internal control without patch augmentation. After 6 weeks the tissues were harvested and underwent histologic and histomorphometric analyses. Histological evaluation demonstrated no inflammatory reaction; histomorphometry revealed tissue ingrowth of 79.9%. In conclusion, the polycarbonate polyurethane patch for tissue extension or augmentation in rotator cuff repair has demonstrated no inflammatory response and excellent tissue integration in a rat rotator cuff repair model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Clinical and biomechanical studies have demonstrated the increase in contact pressure and progressive deterioration of the tibiofemoral compartments that occur after partial or complete meniscectomy. Meniscus transplantation has been indicated for the symptomatic postmeniscectomy patient to alleviate symptoms and potentially prevent the progression of articular degeneration. Purpose: To report the early-term results after allograft meniscus transplantations from a single institution performed by a single surgeon. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: Forty-four meniscus transplants in 39 patients were evaluated at minimum 2-year follow-up using the Lysholm, Tegner, International Knee Documentation Committee, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, Noyes symptom rating and sports activity, and SF-12 scoring systems; visual analog pain scales; patient satisfaction; and physical examination. Four transplants failed early, leaving 40 transplants in 36 patients for review. Patients were grouped into medial and lateral transplant groups as well as those with isolated and combined procedures. Twenty-one menisci were transplanted in isolation (52.5%), and 19 were combined with other procedures (47.5%) to address concomitant articular cartilage injury. Results: Patients demonstrated statistically significant improvements in standardized outcomes surveys and visual analog pain and satisfaction scales. In 7 patients, treatment had failed at final follow-up. Overall, 77.5% of patients reported they were completely or mostly satisfied with the procedure, and 90% of patients were classified as normal or nearly normal using the International Knee Documentation Committee knee examination score at final follow-up. There were no significant differences in the medial and lateral subgroups, although the lateral subgroup did demonstrate a trend toward greater improvement. No significant differences were noted in the isolated and combined subgroups. Conclusion: Meniscus transplantation alone or in combination with other reconstructive procedures results in reliable improvements in knee pain and function at minimum 2-year follow-up. Longer term studies are necessary to determine if transplantation can prevent the articular degeneration associated with meniscectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the proper setting, a single stage meniscus transplantation and revision ACL results in a therapeutic synergy. The stability from the revision ACL reconstruction protects the meniscus transplant, and the meniscus transplant provides a secondary restraint to protect the revised ACL reconstruction. This is particularly true in the case of the posterior horn of the medial meniscus. With proper patient selection, thorough preoperative planning, and meticulous attention to technique, this combined treatment can provide an optimal outcome to the patient with a failed ACL reconstruction and a deficient meniscus. This article discusses the indications, patient evaluation, and technical considerations combining these 2 procedures, particularly with respect to tibial tunnel placement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In part 1 of this 2-part Current Concepts article, the authors reviewed the basic science of normal articular and meniscal cartilage and its response to injury. They reviewed the historical perspectives and basic science behind these various methods and presented a rationale for patient evaluation, treatment selection, and timing. In part 2, the authors review the specific indications for the treatment of chondral injuries and describe the techniques and outcomes of the various treatment options, including palliative, reparative, and restorative procedures. In addition, they will examine specific complex clinical scenarios emphasizing treatment options of comorbid conditions including ligament instability, meniscal deficiency, and malalignment. A limited review of the application of these techniques in joints other than the knee will also be presented. A conceptual algorithm is developed to assist in clinical decision making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgical procedures designed to treat focal chondral lesions are evolving and are supported by basic science principles of cartilage physiology and known responses to injury. Selecting the proper treatment algorithm for a particular patient depends on careful patient evaluation, including the recognition of comorbidities such as ligamentous instability, deficient menisci, or malalignment of the mechanical limb axis or extensor mechanism. These comorbidities may need to be treated in conjunction with symptomatic chondral injuries to provide a mutually beneficial effect. A central tenet of cartilage restoration is to leave future treatment options available should they become necessary. In this article (part 1), the authors review the basic science of chondral injuries, the historical perspective of the available surgical options, and present guidelines for patient evaluation and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discusses the allograft meniscal transplantation for the treatment of meniscal injuries. History of meniscus-deficient knee; Graft processing and preservation; Expression of class I and II histocompatibility antigens on the cells of a meniscal allograft; Specific clinical scenario.

Background: Sixty-three consecutive patients with recurrent traumatic anterior shoulder instability underwent operative repair. The decision to select either arthroscopic Bankart repair or open capsular shift was based on the findings of an examination under anesthesia and the findings at the time of arthroscopy. Thirty-nine patients with only anterior translation on examination under anesthesia and a discrete Bankart lesion underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair with use of absorbable transfixing implants. Twenty-four patients with inferior translation in addition to anterior translation on examination under anesthesia and capsular laxity or injury on arthroscopy underwent an open capsular shift. Methods: Treatment outcomes for each group were determined according to the scoring systems of Rowe et al., the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, and the Short Form-36. Failure was defined as recurrence of dislocation or subluxation or the finding of apprehension. Fifty-nine (94 percent) of the sixty-three patients were examined and filled out a questionnaire at a mean of fifty-four months (range, twenty-seven to seventy-two months) following surgery. Results: There were no significant differences between the two groups with regard to the prevalence of failure or any of the other measured parameters of outcome. An unsatisfactory outcome occurred after nine (24 percent) of thirty-seven arthroscopic repairs and after four (18 percent) of twenty-two open reconstructions. All cases of recurrent instability resulted from a reinjury in a contact sport or a fall less than two years postoperatively. The treatment groups did not differ with regard to patient age, hand dominance, mechanism of initial injury, duration of follow-up, or delay until surgery. Measured losses of motion were minimal and, with the exception of forward elevation, slightly more of which was lost after the open capsular shifts (p = 0.05), did not differ between the two forms of treatment. Approximately... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of the present study was to perform a survey administered to members of the Meniscus International Network (MenIN) Study Group, seeking to delineate the most contentious aspects of meniscal extrusion classification and provide a foundation for new, more comprehensive definitions and treatments for these pathologies. Methods: MenIN Study Group is a group of international experts treating and performing research on meniscus pathology and treatment. All MenIN Study Group members were asked to complete a survey aimed at establishing criteria for the optimal classification system for meniscal extrusion. Data obtained from the completed questionnaires were transferred into a spreadsheet and then analysed. All responses are presented as counts, percentages or means. Results: Forty‐seven (85.5%) MenIN Study Group members completed the survey and were included in this analysis. Key aspects recommended for inclusion in a comprehensive classification system for meniscal extrusion included laterality (93.6%), anatomical location (76.6%), patient age (76.6%), body mass index (BMI) (68.1%) and aetiology (68.1%). For classifying meniscal extrusion, 53.2% considered the distance in millimetres from the tibial plateau's outer margin as the most reliable measurement technique on imaging. Preferences for imaging modalities varied, with 44.7% favouring weight‐bearing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and 36.2% opting for weight‐bearing ultrasound due to its greater availability. Respondents advocated for a classification system addressing stability or progression of meniscal extrusion (66%), reducibility (53.2%), potential progression of knee osteoarthritis (OA) (83%), influencing treatment approaches (83%), a gradation system (83%), consideration of dynamic factors (66%), association with clinical outcomes and prognosis (76.6%) and investigation around centralization procedures (57.4%). Conclusions: In conclusion, the findings of this survey shed light on the global perspectives regarding meniscal extrusion classification. It was generally felt that a new classification of extrusion measured on MRI scans at the mid‐tibial plateau should be developed, which considers factors such as laterality, anatomical location, age, BMI and aetiology. Additionally, the results support the integration of dynamic factors and clinical outcomes in MRI‐based classifications to inform treatment approaches. Level of Evidence: Level IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An editorial is presented on the conflict of interest (COI) between the physicians and subspecialists in the healthcare industry. It talks about the COI being influenced by factors like patents, employment and consultancies in medical care. It tells about the sort medicine physicians being ignored while physicians have obligations beyond the treatment of the athlete patient.

Purpose: To conduct a systematic review evaluating potential correlations between preoperative articular cartilage integrity on outcomes and survivorship in patients undergoing meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT). Methods: A literature search was performed by querying SCOPUS, PubMed, Medline, and the Cochrane Central Register for Controlled Trials from database inception through May 2023 according to the 2020 PRISMA statement. Inclusion criteria were limited to studies reporting on outcomes and survivorship following MAT based on preoperative cartilage status. Results: Sixteen studies, consisting of 1723 patients (n = 1758 total menisci), were identified in six level III and 10 level IV evidence studies. There was high heterogeneity in cartilage grading scales, reporting of concomitant cartilage procedures, and indications for MAT based on osteoarthritis. Patients with lower limb malalignment were either excluded or corrected with an osteotomy. MAT failure rate was reported in nine studies, with four studies reporting a greater rate of failure in knees with higher degrees of cartilage damage. Eight studies reported on clinical outcomes based on cartilage grade, with two studies reporting significant differences in clinical outcomes based on cartilage grade. Of the five studies reporting management of full‐thickness chondral defects with cartilage surgery, three studies reported no significant difference in survivorship based on preoperative cartilage grade, while one study reported lower survivorship and one study reported unclear results. No studies found significant differences in survivorship and outcomes between medial and lateral MAT. Conclusions: Conflicting results and high variability in reporting of concomitant cartilage repair and indications for MAT exist in studies evaluating the efficacy of MAT based on articular cartilage status. The degree of preoperative chondral damage did not have a strong relationship with clinical outcomes following MAT. Higher degrees of cartilage damage were associated with higher MAT failure rates, with possible improvement in survivorship when treated with an appropriate cartilage procedure. Level of Evidence: Level IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The purpose of this study was to investigate the associations between each mental health patient-reported outcome measure with postoperative functional outcomes following shoulder arthroplasty, and to compare psychometric properties of patient-reported outcomes measurement information system depression to the legacy (VR-12 Mental) patient-reported outcome measure. Methods: Patients who underwent primary shoulder arthroplasty from July 2018 to February 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Patient-reported outcomes measurement information system depression and VR-12 Mental were administered preoperatively; American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation were administered at 6-month and 1-year postoperatively. Rasch partial credit modeling analysis was used to compare psychometric properties of legacy versus patient-reported outcomes measurement information system instruments in assessing mental health. Results: Ninety-three patients who underwent total shoulder arthroplasty (n = 52), reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (n = 39), or hemiarthroplasty (n = 2) were included. Preoperative VR-12 Mental scores were moderately associated with American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons at 6-months (coefficient: 0.52, P = 0.026) and 1-year (coefficient: 0.65, P = 0.002), while preoperative patient-reported outcomes measurement information system depression scores were not. Patient-reported outcomes measurement information system depression demonstrated significant floor effects (16%); VR-12 Mental demonstrated minimal floor and ceiling effects (1.1% for both). VR-12 Mental demonstrated broader coverage of mental outlook on Rasch modeling than patient-reported outcomes measurement information system depression and had adequate model fit after one round of reiterative item elimination. Discussion: Patient-reported outcomes measurement information system depression was poorly associated with postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores, demonstrated significant floor effects, and had limited coverage of mental health on Rasch modeling with reiterative elimination. Level of Evidence: IV [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the validity, floor and ceiling effects, and dimensionality of PROMIS Physical Function (PF) and Pain compared to legacy patient reported outcome (PRO) measures in patients undergoing medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction. Methods: Patients who underwent MPFL reconstruction between 2018 to 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Preoperatively, patients completed the IKDC, VR-12, Kujala, SF-12, KOOS JR, PROMIS PF and Pain surveys. Inter-survey convergence was assessed with Spearman correlations. Psychometric analysis included investigations of inter-survey convergent validity, intra-survey floor and ceiling effects, and Rasch analyses with person–item fit and iterative question elimination model fit testing. Results: A total of 76 patients (mean age: 22.6 ± 8.4 years) who completed preoperative surveys were included (compliance: 91.7–96.2%). Preoperatively, age was significantly associated with both PROMIS PF (coefficient: – 0.291, P = 0.005) and Pain scores (coefficient: 0.294, P = 0.002). PROMIS PF had a Very Good correlation with IKDC and PROMIS Pain had a Very Good correlation with KOOS JR. Other correlations ranged from Poor to Good. No significant floor or ceiling effects were observed for any PRO. On iterative question elimination Rasch modelling, only two questions from PROMIS PF remained after 6 rounds of elimination while PROMIS Pain had no questions remaining after 3 rounds of elimination. Conclusion: Preoperative PROMIS PF and Pain provided only Fair to Good correlations with most legacy PROs. Although no significant floor and ceiling effects were observed, PROMIS PF and Pain did not perform well psychometrically in this population of patients undergoing MPFL reconstruction. These results suggest PROMIS questionnaires should be used with caution in this population, especially if used in isolation, when discussing clinical expectations with patients. The authors recommend continued use of legacy PROs specific to assessment of patellar instability and function that have established validity in patellar instability populations. Level of evidence: Level IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Marrow stimulation techniques (MSTs) such as subchondral drilling and microfracture are often chosen as first-line treatment options for symptomatic cartilage defects of the knee. When an MST fails, many cartilage restoration techniques are employed, including autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) and osteochondral allograft (OCA). However, a few series in the literature suggest that ACI after a failed MST results in inferior outcomes as compared with primary ACI. Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose of this study was (1) to evaluate the clinical outcomes of ACI and OCA after a failed MST (secondary ACI and OCA) and compare them with the outcomes of primary ACI and OCA and (2) to compare clinical outcomes of secondary ACI and secondary OCA for refractory lesions involving the femoral condyle. The hypotheses were as follows: (1) secondary ACI will render inferior functional outcomes and an increased clinical failure rate as compared with primary ACI, (2) secondary OCA will render comparable results to primary OCA, and (3) secondary OCA will render superior outcomes to secondary ACI. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Patients were retrospectively identified who underwent ACI and OCA for symptomatic chondral lesions of the knee refractory to a previous MST. Age-, sex-, and body mass index–matched groups of patients undergoing primary ACI and OCA were used as controls. Postoperative data were prospectively collected using several subjective scoring systems (Tegner, Lysholm, International Knee Documentation Committee, Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, 12-Item Short Form Health Survey). Groups were compared with regard to patient-reported outcomes, subjective satisfaction, clinical failure rate, and reoperation. Student t tests were used for continuous data, and chi-square tests were performed for categorical data. Results: A total of 359 patients were examined: 92 patients undergoing secondary ACI, 100 primary ACI, 88 secondary OCA, and 79 primary OCA. The mean patient age was 30.3 years (range, 14.9-49.9 years) at the time of ACI and 35.4 (range, 15-54.5) at the time of OCA. There was no difference between the primary and secondary groups with regard to postoperative functional scores, subjective satisfaction, reoperation rate, and clinical failure rate. Conclusion: ACI and OCA are both viable treatment options for chondral defects of the knee, even in the setting of a failed MST. Secondary ACI renders functional outcomes, subjective satisfaction, and reoperation and failure rates comparable with primary ACI and secondary OCA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) has been shown to provide clinical benefits in patients with symptomatic meniscal deficiency in the short term and midterm. There is, however, a paucity of data regarding long-term outcomes after MAT using fresh-frozen allografts and the bridge-in-slot technique. Purpose: To report clinical outcomes and revision rates after primary MAT with fresh-frozen allografts and the bridge-in-slot technique in a large case series of patients at a 10-year minimum follow-up. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: A retrospective review of prospectively collected data was performed on patients undergoing primary MAT between 2001 and 2012. Lysholm, International Knee Documentation Committee subjective form, and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score subscales were collected preoperatively and at 1-, 2-, 5-, and minimum 10-year follow-ups. Cox proportional hazards modeling was used to identify variables associated with reoperation and failure, defined as revision MAT or conversion to arthroplasty. Reoperation was defined as a subsequent surgical intervention on the transplanted meniscus, including partial or total meniscectomy, meniscal repair, or failure as defined in the previous sentence. Results: A total of 174 patients undergoing MAT met the inclusion criteria and were followed for a mean of 12.7 ± 2.7 years (range, 10.0-21.0 years). The mean age at surgery was 28.3 ± 10.1 years. The patients were predominantly female (n = 92; 53%), and medial MAT was the most commonly performed procedure (n = 91; 52%). Concomitant procedures were performed in 115 patients (66%), with the most common procedure being osteochondral allograft transplantation (n = 59; 34%). Patients demonstrated statistically significant postoperative improvements at all time points for all patient-reported outcome measures (P ≤.0001). A total of 65 patients (37%) underwent a meniscal reoperation at a mean time of 6.6 ± 5.5 years (range, 0.3-16.7 years) postoperatively. A total of 40 patients (23%) met the criteria for failure at a mean time of 7.3 ± 5.0 years (range, 1.0-17.4 years) after MAT, with 22 of these patients having undergone a previous meniscal reoperation. At the final follow-up, 13 patients (7%) had undergone revision MAT and 27 (15%) had converted to arthroplasty. The MAT survival rates free of meniscal reoperation and failure were 73% and 85% at 10 years and 60% and 72% at 15 years, respectively. At the time of the final follow-up, 86% of patients reported that they were satisfied with their overall postoperative condition. Conclusion: Primary MAT demonstrates efficacy and durability with high rates of patient satisfaction at a minimum 10-year follow-up. Patients should be counseled that although reoperation rates may approach 40% at 15 years, rates of overall revision MAT and conversion to arthroplasty remain low at long-term follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Studies suggest that similar clinical results are achieved via arthroscopic and open biceps tenodesis (BT) techniques. Purpose: To quantify the postoperative migration of the BT construct between arthroscopic suprapectoral BT (ASPBT) and open subpectoral BT (OSPBT) techniques via interference screw (IS) or single-suture suture anchor (SSSA) fixation using radiostereometric analysis. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Methods: Distal migration of the biceps tendon after OSPBT with a polyetheretherketone IS, OSPBT with 1 SSSA, ASPBT with polyetheretherketone IS, and ASPBT with 2 SSSAs was measured prospectively. Patients with symptomatic biceps tendinopathy and preoperative patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) including Constant-Murley subjective, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, or Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System–Upper Extremity scores were included. A tantalum bead was sutured on the proximal end of the long head of the biceps tendon before fixation of tendon tissue. Anteroposterior radiographs were performed immediately postoperatively, at 1 week, and at 3 months. Bead migration was measured, and preoperative PROMs were compared with those at latest follow-up. Results: Of 115 patients, 94 (82%) were available for final follow-up. IS fixation yielded the least tendon migration with no difference between the open and arthroscopic approaches (4.31 vs 5.04 mm; P =.70). Fixation with 1 suture anchor demonstrated significantly greater migration than that achieved with an IS at both 1 week (6.47 vs 0.1 mm, 6.47 vs 1.75 mm, P <.001;) and 3 months (14.76 vs 4.31 mm, 14.76 vs 5.04 mm, P <.001) postoperatively. Two-suture anchor fixation yielded significantly greater migration than IS fixation at 1 week (7.02 vs 0.1 mm, P <.001; 7.02 vs 1.75 mm, P =.003) but not 3 months postoperatively (8.06 vs 4.31 mm, P =.10; 8.06 vs 5.04 mm, P =.07). Four patients with suture anchor fixation (3 patients in the OSPBT 1 SSSA group, 9.4%, and 1 patient in the ASPBT 2 SSSAs group, 3.8%) developed a Popeye deformity, whereas no Popeye deformities occurred in the IS groups. Mean 3-month bead migration in patients with and without a Popeye deformity was 60.8 and 11.2 mm, respectively (P <.0001). PROMs did not differ among groups at final follow-up. Conclusion: Interference screw fixation yielded the least tendon migration whether achieved arthroscopically or open. The available data indicated that fixation with 1 SSSA but not 2 SSSAs resulted in significantly greater migration than that achieved with an IS. Despite variations in tendon migration, PROMs were similar among all groups. When SSSAs are used, tendon migration may be minimized by using ≥2 anchors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor is presented regarding the article "A Randomized Trial Comparing Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation with Microfracture: Findings at Five Years," by Gunnar Knutsen, Jon Olav Drogset, Lars Engebretsen, Torbjørn Strand, Grøntvedt, Tom C. Ludvigsen, Eirik Solheim, V. Isaksen, and Oddmund Johansen.

A response by E. A. Sundman to letter to the editor about his article "The anti-inflammatory and matrix restorative mechanisms of platelet-rich plasma in osteoarthritis," in the January 2014 issue is presented.

A letter to the editor in response to the article "The anti-inflammatory and matrix restorative mechanisms of platelet-rich plasma in osteoarthritis," by E. A. Sundman in the January 2014 issue is presented.

A letter to the editor is presented in response to the article "Comparison Between Hyaluronic Acid and Platelet-Rich Plasma, Intra-articular Infiltration in the Treatment of Gonarthrosis" by Cerza et al in the December 2012 issue.

Articular cartilage defects strongly predispose patients to developing early joint degeneration and osteoarthritis, but for more than 15 years, no new cartilage-repair technologies that we know of have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Many studies examining novel approaches to cartilage repair, including cell, tissue, or matrix-based techniques, have shown great promise, but completing randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to establish safety and efficacy has been challenging, providing a major barrier to bringing these innovations into clinical use. In this article, we review reasons that surgical innovations are not well-suited for testing through RCTs. We also discuss how analytical methods for reducing bias, such as propensity scoring, make prospective observational studies a potentially viable alternative for testing the safety and efficacy of cartilage-repair and other novel therapies, offering the real possibility of therapeutic innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor and a reply are presented in response to the article "Medial Versus Lateral Supraspinatus Tendon Properties: Implications for Double-Row Rotator Cuff Repair," by Brian J. Cole and colleagues in the 2010 issue.

A preface for the December 2008 issue of "Sports Medicine and Arthroscopy Review" is presented.

A response by Brian J. Cole to a letter to the editor about his article on outcomes as evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging is presented.

Background: In younger patients and those without severe degenerative changes, the efficacy of intra-articular (IA) injections as a nonoperative modality for treating symptomatic knee osteoarthritis (OA)–related pain while maintaining function has become a subject of increasing interest. Purpose: To assess and compare the efficacy of different IA injections used for the treatment of knee OA, including hyaluronic acid (HA), corticosteroids (CS), platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF), with a minimum 6-month patient follow-up. Study Design: Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials; Level of evidence, 1. Methods: A systematic review was performed according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines using the following databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Google Scholar. Mean or mean change from baseline and standard deviation for outcome scores regarding pain and function were recorded at the 6-month follow-up and converted to either a 0 to 100 visual analog scale score for pain or a 0 to 100 Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index score for function. A frequentist network meta-analysis model was developed to compare the effects of HA, CS, PRP, PRGF, and placebo on patient-reported outcomes. Results: All IA treatments except CS were found to result in a statistically significant improvement in outcomes when compared with placebo. PRP demonstrated a clinically meaningful difference in function-related improvement when compared with CS and placebo due to large effect sizes. Studies evaluating outcomes of PRGF reported significant improvement when compared with placebo due to large effect sizes, whereas a potential clinically significant difference was detected in the same comparison parameters in pain evaluation. With regard to improvements in pain, function, and both combined, PRP was found to possess the highest probability of efficacy, followed by PRGF, HA, CS, and placebo. Conclusion: PRP yielded improved outcomes when compared with PRGF, HA, CS, and placebo for the treatment of symptomatic knee OA at a minimum 6-month follow-up. Further investigations evaluating different IA and other nonoperative treatment options for patients with knee OA are warranted to better understand the true clinical efficacy and long-term outcomes of nonsurgical OA management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Point-of-care treatment options for medium to large symptomatic articular cartilage defects are limited. Minced cartilage implantation is an encouraging single-stage option, providing fresh viable autologous tissue with minimal morbidity and cost. Purpose: To determine the histological properties of mechanically minced versus minimally manipulated articular cartilage. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: Remnant articular cartilage was collected from fresh femoral condylar allografts. Cartilage samples were divided into 4 groups: cartilage explants with or without fibrin glue and mechanically minced cartilage with or without fibrin glue. Samples were cultured for 42 days. Chondrocyte viability was assessed using live/dead assay. Cellular migration and outgrowth were monitored using bright-field microscopy. Extracellular matrix deposition was assessed via histological staining. Proteoglycan content and synthesis were assessed using dimethylmethylene blue assay and radiolabeled 35S-sulfate, respectively. Type II collagen (COL2A1) gene expression was analyzed via polymerase chain reaction. Results: The mean viability of minced cartilage particles (34% ± 14%) was not significantly reduced compared with baseline (46% ± 13%) on day 0 (P =.90). After culture, no significant difference in the percentage of live cells was appreciated between mechanically minced (58% ± 23%) and explant (73% ± 14%) cartilage in the presence of fibrin glue (P =.52). The addition of fibrin glue did not significantly affect the viability of cartilage samples. The qualitative assessment revealed comparable cellular migration and outgrowth between groups. Proteoglycan synthesis was not significantly different between groups. Histological analysis findings were positive for COL2A1 in all groups, and matrix formation was appreciated in all groups. COL2A1 expression in minced cartilage (1.72 ± 1.88) was significantly higher than in explant cartilage (0.15 ± 0.07) in the presence of fibrin glue (P =.01). Conclusion: Mechanically minced articular cartilage remained viable after 42 days of culture in vitro and was comparable with cartilage explants with regard to cellular migration, outgrowth, and extracellular matrix synthesis. Clinical Relevance: Mechanically minced articular cartilage is an encouraging intervention for the treatment of symptomatic cartilage defects. Further translational work is warranted to determine the viability of minced cartilage implantation as a single-stage therapeutic intervention in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We have previously reported the 1-year outcomes of arthroscopic suprapectoral biceps tenodesis (ASPBT) versus open subpectoral biceps tenodesis (OSPBT) for the management of long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) pathology. While patients had similar 1-year biceps muscle strength and pain, longer-term functional outcomes are unknown. Purpose: To directly compare clinical outcomes of ASPBT versus OSPBT with interference screw fixation, distal to the bony bicipital groove, at a minimum of 2 years' follow-up. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. Methods: A total of 85 patients undergoing biceps tenodesis (BT) for LHBT disease were randomized into the ASPBT or OSPBT group. Both techniques utilized polyether ether ketone inference screws for tenodesis fixation. Patients completed American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), Constant subjective, and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) questionnaires preoperatively and again at 6 months, 12 months, and at the final follow-up at a minimum of 24 months. Results: A total of 73 patients (37/42 randomized to ASPBT [88%]; 36/42 randomized to OSPBT [86%]) with a mean age of 50.4 ± 10.3 years and a mean body mass index of 29 ± 7.9 were included in clinical outcome analyses. The mean final follow-up was 2.9 years (ASPBT, 3 years; OSPBT, 2.8 years [range 2-5.2 years]). Comparison of demographic characteristics and intraoperative findings showed no significant differences in age, sex, concomitant procedures, and rotator cuff disease. No statistically significant differences in the ASES (P =.25), Constant subjective (P =.52), and SANE scores (P =.61) were found at the final follow-up. Clinical outcomes scores showed no significant improvement from a mean of 12.6 months to the final follow-up at 34.5 months (ASPBT: ASES, P =.43; Constant, P =.25; SANE, P =.45 vs OSPBT: ASES, P =.65; Constant, P =.78; SANE, P =.70). No patients required revision of BT in either group. Conclusion: This study reported a minimum of 2-year follow-up of patients undergoing ASPBT or OSPBT, utilizing the same interference screw technique, for the management of LHBT pathology in the setting of concomitant shoulder procedures. There were no significant differences in patient-reported outcomes and complication rates found at any time point. Registration: NCT02192073 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on the most efficient strategy for the diagnosis of meniscus tears. Topics covered include patient history and physical examination (H&P), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as part of the diagnostic strategy, and decision analysis. Also mentioned is diagnostic imaging as the fastest rising segment of costs in the health care system in the U.S.

Background: The lateral patellofemoral complex (LPFC) is an important stabilizer of the patella composed of the lateral retinacular structures including the lateral patellofemoral ligament (LPFL), the lateral patellomeniscal ligament (LPML), and the lateral patellotibial ligament (LPTL). While the isolated anatomy of the LPFL has been previously described, no previous study has investigated the entirety of the LPFC structure, length changes, and radiographic landmarks. An understanding of LPFC anatomy is important in the setting of LPFL injury or previous lateral release resulting in iatrogenic medial instability requiring LPFC reconstruction. Purpose: To both qualitatively and quantitatively describe the anatomy and length changes of the LPFC on gross anatomic dissections and standard radiographic views. Study Design: Descriptive laboratory study. Methods: Ten nonpaired cadaveric specimens were utilized in this study. Specimens were dissected to identify distinct attachments of the LPFL, LPML, and LPTL. Ligament lengths, footprints, and centers of each attachment were described with respect to osseous landmarks using a 3-dimensional coordinate measuring device. Ligament length changes were also assessed from 0° to 90° of flexion. Radiopaque markers were subsequently utilized to describe attachments on standard anteroposterior and lateral radiographic views. Results: The individual elements of the LPFC were identified in all specimens. The LPFL patellar attachment had an average total length of 22.5 mm (range, 18.3-27.5 mm), involving a mean of 59% (range, 50%-75%) of the sagittal patella. Based on the average patellar size, a mean of 63% of the LPFL attached to the patella, and the remainder (11.1 ± 1.4 mm) inserted into the patellar tendon. The femoral attachment of the LPFL had a mean maximum length of 24.4 ± 4.3 mm. The center of the LPFL femoral attachment was a mean distance of 13.5 ± 3.2 mm anterior and distal to the lateral epicondyle. The LPFL demonstrated significant shortening, especially in the first 45° of flexion (7.5 ± 5.1 mm). In contrast, the LPTL (5.5 ± 3.0 mm) and LPML (10.0 ± 3.3 mm) demonstrated significant shortening from 45° to 90°. On lateral radiographs, the center of the femoral attachment of the LPFL was a mean total distance of 19.2 ± 7.2 mm from the lateral epicondyle. Conclusion: The most important findings of this study were the correlative anatomy of 3 distinct lateral patellar ligaments (LPFL, LPML, and LPTL) and their anisometry through flexion. All 3 components demonstrated significant shortening during flexion. The quantitative and radiographic measurements detailed the LPFL osseous attachment on the patella; soft tissue attachment on the patellar tendon; and finally, the osseous insertion on the femur distal and anterior to the lateral epicondyle. Similarly, the authors documented the meniscal insertion of the LPML and defined a patellar insertion of the LPTL and LPML as a single attachment. These data allow for reproducible landmarks to aid in the understanding and reconstruction of the lateral patellar restraints. Clinical Relevance: The data produced from this investigation provide a comprehensive description of these 3 lateral patellar stabilizers (LPFL, LPML, LPTL). These data can be used intraoperatively to facilitate anatomic reconstructions of the lateral patellar stabilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Recovery following elective knee arthroscopy can be compromised by prolonged postoperative opioid utilization, yet an effective and validated risk calculator for this outcome remains elusive. The purpose of this study is to develop and validate a machine-learning algorithm that can reliably and effectively predict prolonged opioid consumption in patients following elective knee arthroscopy. Methods: A retrospective review of an institutional outcome database was performed at a tertiary academic medical centre to identify adult patients who underwent knee arthroscopy between 2016 and 2018. Extended postoperative opioid consumption was defined as opioid consumption at least 150 days following surgery. Five machine-learning algorithms were assessed for the ability to predict this outcome. Performances of the algorithms were assessed through discrimination, calibration, and decision curve analysis. Results: Overall, of the 381 patients included, 60 (20.3%) demonstrated sustained postoperative opioid consumption. The factors determined for prediction of prolonged postoperative opioid prescriptions were reduced preoperative scores on the following patient-reported outcomes: the IKDC, KOOS ADL, VR12 MCS, KOOS pain, and KOOS Sport and Activities. The ensemble model achieved the best performance based on discrimination (AUC = 0.74), calibration, and decision curve analysis. This model was integrated into a web-based open-access application able to provide both predictions and explanations. Conclusion: Following appropriate external validation, the algorithm developed presently could augment timely identification of patients who are at risk of extended opioid use. Reduced scores on preoperative patient-reported outcomes, symptom duration and perioperative oral morphine equivalents were identified as novel predictors of prolonged postoperative opioid use. The predictive model can be easily deployed in the clinical setting to identify at risk patients thus allowing providers to optimize modifiable risk factors and appropriately counsel patients preoperatively. Level of evidence: III. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Durable, meaningful symptom responses to intra-articular saline placebo injections are observed in knee osteoarthritis (OA) trials, but it is unclear if these are due to physiological effects. Purpose: To perform a prospective comparison of patient-reported outcome responses among participants with knee OA who underwent intra-articular injection of saline-based placebo or sham (dry needle). Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 2. Methods: From a 24-week randomized double-blind trial, participants with moderate to severe knee OA received 2-mL intra-articular injections of saline-based placebo (PBO; 99.45% PBS) or sham (dry needle) to the target knee. Least squares mean differences of changes from baseline to week 24 were compared between the PBO and sham groups for the following: pain Numeric Rating Scale; Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) pain, stiffness, and function; and patient global assessment. Bang Blinding Index was used to evaluate all-group blinding on day 1 and week 24. Results: In total, 116 and 117 participants were randomized to the PBO and sham groups, respectively. Within the full trial population, the mean ± SD age and body mass index were 59.0 ± 8.5 years and 28.97 ± 4.01, respectively. An overall 406 (58.4%) were female, and 394 (57.3%) had Kellgren-Lawrence grade 3 target knee OA. The PBO and sham groups demonstrated clinically meaningful improvements (≥10%) from baseline in all patient-reported outcomes at all time points (ie, weeks 4-24). Mean differences (95% CI) at week 24 between the PBO and sham groups were as follows: pain Numeric Rating Scale, –0.10 (–0.79 to 0.59; P =.78); WOMAC pain, –2.89 (–9.70 to 3.92; P =.40); WOMAC stiffness, –2.37 (–9.37 to 4.63; P =.51); and WOMAC function, –1.39 (–8.06 to 5.29; P =.68). Bang Blinding Index indicated that blinding was maintained. Conclusion: PBO and sham groups demonstrated equivalent patient-reported outcomes at all time points through week 24, suggesting that responses attributed to saline were contextual (ie, to the procedure) and not physiological. Registration: NCT03122860 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study on providing lasting improvements on function and pain in repairing patellar cartilage defects through autologous chondrocyte implantantion (ACI). Prospectively followed for four years were patients with ACI cartilage defects and bipolar defects in the patella after undergoing treatment at cartilage repair centers as to outcome ratings and treatment failure. Results showed 80% excellent outcomes after ACI with careful attention to patellofemoral biomechanics.

The article presents a case study of a 17-year-old girl who underwent a routine anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction after which bupivacaine pain pump was placed into the suprapatellar pouch for 48 hours. Four months after the surgery, she noticed crepitus in the medical aspect of the knee in association with pain and swelling in the knee. The study indicates that the chondrolysis arising from improperly placed implants was extensive and not localized to the area of meniscal repair.

The article focuses on existing cartilage repair technology. It states that currently, autologous chondrocyte implantation and osteochondral grafting link the gap between palliation of cartilage injury and resurfacing through arthroplasty. It discusses that emerging technologies attempt to advance first generation techniques and accomplish several goals including predictable outcomes, cost-effective technology, single-stage procedures and creation of durable repair tissue. It mentions that the biological pipeline embodies a variety of technologies including synthetics, scaffolds, cell therapy and cell-infused matrices. However, despite the promising early results of these products, substantial technical obstacles remain along with unknown long-term durability.

Chondrocytes in cold preserved cartilage are metabolically suppressed. The goal of this study was to address this metabolic suppression and seek ways to reverse it. Specifically, we examined the roles of rewarming protocols and nitric oxide (NO) in this metabolic suppression. Bovine and canine full-thickness articular cartilage explants were cultured under various temperature conditions, and NO production, proteoglycan (PG) synthesis, and cell viability were measured. Nitric oxide was shown to be negatively correlated with PG synthesis following abrupt rewarming of cold preserved osteochondral allografts. Gradual rewarming of the allograft tissue decreased NO production with higher PG synthesis. Inhibition of nitric oxide synthases (NOS) led to a decrease in NO production and a concomitant increase in PG synthesis. We were able to partially reverse metabolic suppression of cold preserved osteochondral allograft material with gradual rewarming and decrease NO production with NOS inhibition. Chondrocytes in cold preserved allograft material may be metabolically suppressed predisposing the graft to failure in vivo. Minimizing this loss of metabolic function by gradual graft rewarming and decreasing NO production by NOS inhibition at the time of graft implantation may have implications on graft survival in vivo. © 2007 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 26:247-254, 2008 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the osteochondral allograft transplantation for large defects in the knee. Magnetic resonance imaging is the basic standard for evaluating patients with osteochondral lesions. It discusses various surgical techniques. After the transplantation, patients are encouraged to perfrom continuous passive motion for 6 to 8 hours every day for 6 weeks in order to prevent adhesions and advance the healing process.

Background: The goals of this study were to determine the incidence in the United States of preoperative three-dimensional imaging prior to anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty for osteoarthritis and to determine if preoperative imaging is associated with decreased complication rates. Methods: Using a Medicare insurance database, we identified all patients who underwent computed tomography (n = 9380) and/or magnetic resonance imaging (n = 15,653) prior to anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty for a diagnosis of osteoarthritis from 2005 to 2014. The incidence of imaging over time was analyzed and complication rates compared between patients with imaging to matched controls. Results: The incidence of preoperative three-dimensional imaging significantly increased over time, with computed tomography increasing more than magnetic resonance imaging. Compared to controls, patients with preoperative computed tomography imaging had significantly lower revision rates at two years (odds ratio 0.72 (0.64–0.82), p = 0.008). There were no other significant differences in the other complications studied. Conclusions: The use of preoperative three-dimensional imaging for anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty for a diagnosis of osteoarthritis has increased dramatically, with the use of computed tomography increasing the most. Patients who underwent preoperative computed tomography imaging experienced lower revision rates at two years postoperatively compared to matched controls without such imaging. Level of evidence: Level III, retrospective comparative study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Glenoid augmentation using free bone blocks for anterior shoulder instability has been proposed as an alternative to or bail-out for the Latarjet procedure. The purpose of this investigation was to systematically review and compare outcomes of patients undergoing glenoid augmentation using free bone block autografts versus allografts.Methods: A systematic review using PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases was performed in line with the PRISMA statement. Studies reporting outcomes of patients treated with free bone block procedures for anterior shoulder instability with minimum 2-year follow-up were included. Random effects modelling was used to compare patient-reported outcomes, return to sports, recurrent instability, non-instability related complications, and development of arthritis between free bone block autografts and allografts.Results: Eighteen studies comprising of 623 patients met the inclusion criteria for this investigation. There were six studies reporting on the use of allografts (of these, two used distal tibial, three iliac crest, and one femoral head allograft) in 173 patients and twelve studies utilizing autografts (of these, ten used iliac crest and two used free coracoid autograft) in 450 patients. Mean age was 28.7 ± 4.1 years for the allograft group and 27.8 ± 3.8 years for the autograft group (n.s). Mean follow-up was 98 months in autograft studies and 50.8 months for allograft studies (range 24-444 months, n.s). Overall mean increase in Rowe score was 56.2 with comparable increases between autografts and allografts (n.s). Pooled recurrent instability rates were 3% (95% CI, 1-7%; I2 = 77%) and did not differ between the groups (n.s). Arthritic progression was evident in 11% of autografts (95% CI, 2-27%; I2 = 90%) and 1% (95% CI, 0-8%; I2 = 63%) of allografts (n.s). The overall incidence of non-instability related complications was 5% (95% CI, 2-10%; I2 = 81%) and was similar between the groups (n.s). Pooled return to sports rate was 88% (95% CI, 76-96%; I2 = 76%).Conclusion: Glenoid augmentation using free bone block autograft or allograft in the setting of recurrent anterior shoulder instability with glenoid bone loss is effective and safe. Outcomes and complication incidence using autografts and allografts were comparable. Due to the high degree of heterogeneity in the data and outcomes reported in available studies, which consist primarily of retrospective case series, future prospective trials investigating long-term outcomes using free bone block autograft versus allograft for anterior shoulder instability with glenoid bone loss are warranted.Level Of Evidence: IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Comparing symptoms of patients with focal cartilage defects of the knee to those with knee osteoarthritis. Methods: Prospectively maintained databases identified patients with focal cartilage defects (FCD group) who underwent osteochondral allograft transplantation and patients with osteoarthritis (OA group) undergoing arthroplasty. Patients between 18 and 55 years of age were included and matched based on age. Baseline patient demographics, symptoms, and patient-reported outcomes including the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement (KOOS JR), SF-12, and VR-12 questionnaires were recorded. Patient symptoms and individual responses of the KOOS JR were compared between groups. Regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between pre-operative factors that significantly differed between groups and the KOOS JR questionnaire. Results: Sixty-four patients were included: 32 patients in each group. The FCD group had a significantly lower body mass index (BMI) (p = 0.04) and greater number of workers' compensation cases (p = 0.027) when compared to the OA group. Patients in the OA group complained more frequently of medial-sided pain (p = 0.02) and knee swelling (p = 0.003). The OA cohort also had greater pain with fully straightening the knee (p = 0.012), pain with standing upright (p = 0.016), and pain with rising from sitting (p = 0.003). Patients in the FCD group had greater KOOS JR outcome scores (51.5 ± 12.9 vs. 41.5 ± 20.5; p = 0.023). Conclusion: When compared to patients with focal cartilage defects, adults with knee osteoarthritis scheduled for knee arthroplasty have a more severe presentation of symptoms, particularly medial-sided pain, swelling of the knee, pain associated with straightening the knee, standing upright, and rising from sitting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]