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The primate scapula has been studied widely since its shape has been shown to correlate with how the forelimb is used in daily activities. In this study, we expand on the existing literature and use an image-based methodology that was originally developed for orthopaedic practice to quantify and compare the three-dimensional (3D) morphology of the scapula across humans and great apes. We expect that this image-based approach will allow us to identify differences between great apes and humans that can be related to differences in mobility and loading regime of the shoulder. We hypothesize that gorillas and chimpanzees will have a similar scapular morphology, geared towards stability and weight-bearing in knuckle-walking, whilst the scapular morphology of orangutans is expected to be more similar to that of humans given their high glenohumeral mobility associated with their suspensory lifestyle. We made 3D reconstructions of computed tomography scans of 69 scapulae from four hominid genera (Pongo, Gorilla, Pan and Homo). On these 3D bone meshes, the inferior glenoid plane was determined, and subsequently, a set of bony landmarks on the scapular body, coracoid, and acromion were defined. These landmarks allowed us to measure a set of functionally relevant angles which represent acromial overhang, subacromial space and coracoacromial space. The angles that were measured are: the delto-fulcral triangle (DFT), comprising the alpha, beta, and delta angle, the acromion-glenoid angle (AGA), the coracoid-glenoid centre-posterior acromial angle (CGA), the anterior tilt (TA CGA) and the posterior tilt of the CGA (PT CGA). Three observers placed the landmarks on the 3D bone meshes, allowing us to calculate the inter-observer error. The main differences in the DFT were found between humans and the great apes, with small differences between the great apes. The DFT of humans was significantly lower compared to that of the great apes, with the smallest alpha (32.7 degrees), smallest delta (45.7 degrees) and highest beta angle (101.6 degrees) of all genera. The DFT of chimpanzees was significantly higher compared to that of humans (p < 0.01), with a larger alpha (37.6 degrees) and delta angle (54.5 degrees) and smaller beta angle (87.9 degrees). The mean AGA of humans (59.1 degrees) was significantly smaller (p < 0.001) than that of gorillas (68.8 degrees). The mean CGA of humans (110.1 degrees) was significantly higher (p < 0.001) than in orangutans (92.9 degrees). Humans and gorillas showed mainly a posterior tilt of their coracoacromial complex whilst chimpanzees showed mainly an anterior tilt. The coracoacromial complex of the orangutans was not tilted anteriorly or posteriorly. With our image-based method, we were able to identify morphological features of the scapula that differed significantly between hominid genera. However, we did not find an overall dichotomy in scapular morphology geared towards high stability (Pan/Gorilla) or high mobility (Homo/Pongo). Further research is needed to investigate the functional implications of these differences in scapular morphology.

Several classification systems for radial head fractures discuss the number of fragments and their displacement, but not the exact location. This study aimed to evaluate the location of the radial head fracture fragments and the influence of the Mason type on the size of the fracture fragment. Forty-one radial head fractures (31 Mason type I and 10 type II) with an elliptical radial head were included in this retrospective study and 3D reconstructed. First, the fragments were repositioned to their original location. Next, the orientation of the scanned forearm was evaluated using the position of the longest axis relative to the proximal radio-ulnar joint, and all radial heads were rotated to the neutral rotation. The radial head was divided into 4 quadrants (anteromedial, anterolateral, posteromedial, and posterolateral). The location of the fracture line in correlation with these 4 quadrants was evaluated. All fracture fragments were located in the anteromedial quadrant. Thirty-eight (93%) were located in the anterolateral quadrant. The posterolateral quadrant was involved in 32%. At last, the average fracture fragment size was evaluated according to the Mason classification. A significant difference was found in the average fracture fragment size between Mason type I (38% of the radial head surface) and type II (48% of the radial head surface). It was concluded that there is an important involvement of the anterior quadrants of the fracture. The mean size of the fracture is significantly larger in Mason type II compared to type I.

Background: Although the coracoclavicular (CC) ligaments are classically reconstructed after acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries, biomechanical studies over the past decade have indicated the importance of an additional reconstruction of the AC ligaments. To date, no kinematic study has investigated the kinematic differences between these reconstruction strategies. Purpose: To evaluate the restoration of shoulder motion after an AC injury using a CC ligament, an AC ligament, or a combined reconstruction technique. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: After creating a Rockwood grade V lesion in 14 cadaveric shoulders, the AC joint injury was treated with either a CC ligament reconstruction using a suspension device, an in situ AC ligament reconstruction using 2 coupled soft tissue anchors, or a combination of these 2 techniques. Joint motions were registered during humerothoracic elevation in the coronal plane and protraction in the intact shoulder in a Rockwood V lesion and after the 3 reconstruction strategies. An optical navigation system measured 3-dimensional rotation in the sternoclavicular and scapulothoracic joints, and both rotation and translation were analyzed in the AC joint. Results: In the sternoclavicular joint, the CC and combined reconstruction techniques adequately restored clavicular axial rotation, while the AC reconstruction technique showed a better correction of clavicular elevation. Scapulothoracic joint rotations were best restored by reconstructing the AC ligaments. In the AC joint, the relative tilting position and the lateral rotation of the scapula compared with the clavicle were best restored by the suspension device and combined reconstruction. The AC ligament reconstruction technique demonstrated a better restoration of the relative protracted position and resulted in a better correction of the translation of the scapula relative to the clavicle. Conclusion: This study illustrates that there are kinematic differences between AC, CC, or combined ligament reconstruction strategies. Although each technique was able to restore different elements of the joint kinematics, none of the strategies completely restored the shoulder girdle to its preinjured state. Clinical Relevance: Humerothoracic movements after Rockwood V lesions are best restored using the CC reconstruction technique, and scapulothoracic movements are best restored using the AC ligament reconstruction technique.

Immediate postoperative mobilization has been shown to avoid adhesion formation and improve range of motion after flexor tendon repair. A tubular braided construct was designed to allow for these rehabilitation protocols.In this ex vivo study, 92 ovine flexor tendons were divided randomly into 2 equal groups. After creating a transection, the tendons of the first group were repaired using a tubular braided construct. This construct, consisting of a tubular braid of polypropylene and polyethylene terephthalate fibers, exerts a grasping effect on the tendon ends. The control group received a multistrand modified Kessler repair with a looped polydioxanone suture (PDS) 4-0 suture and a Silfverskiöld epitendinous repair using an Ethilon 6-0 suture. After the repair, a static and an incremental cyclic tensile test was performed until failure.During the static test, the tubular braid resulted in a significantly higher load at 3 mm gap formation (86.3 N ± 6.0 vs 50.1 N ± 11.6), a higher ultimate load at failure (98.3 N ± 12.7 vs 63 N ± 11.1), higher stress at ultimate load (11.8 MPa ± 1.2 vs 8.1 MPa ± 3.1), and higher stiffness (7.1 N/mm ± 2.9 vs 8.7 N/mm ± 2.2). For the cyclic tests, survival analyses for 1-, 2- and 3-mm gap formation and failure demonstrated significant differences in favor of the tubular braided construct.The tubular braided construct withstands the required loads for immediate rehabilitation not only in static tests, but also during cyclic tests. This is in contrast with the control group, where sufficient strength is reached during static tests, but failures occur below the required loads during cyclic testing.The tubular braided construct provides a larger safety margin for immediate intensive rehabilitation protocols.

Adequate exposure in revision of total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) is important for optimal prosthesis placement and functional results. A clavicular osteotomy in difficult cases of revision TSA is a useful surgical technique that increases the superior exposure area, provides safer dissection, minimizes damage to the anterior deltoid muscle, improves glenoid access, and allows for superior dislocation of the humeral component. There is a paucity of literature analyzing the clavicular osteotomy during challenging cases of revision TSA. The aims of this study were to describe the application, surgical technique, and outcomes of revision TSA with a clavicular osteotomy. This was a retrospective study of consecutive patients who underwent revision TSA with a clavicle osteotomy at a single institution (2004–2016). A curved longitudinal clavicular osteotomy is created parallel to the origin of the anterior deltoid muscle. This allows for lateral reflection of the osteotomy and anterior deltoid muscle to significantly increase superior exposure and reduce damage to remaining deltoid muscle fibres. Osteotomy closure is simple with four or five Nice knot osteosutures. The Constant-Murley score and osteotomy healing were assessed at every follow-up. All complications were reviewed. Forty patients who had a mean age of 63.8 years (range 37–87) at time of surgery and mean follow-up duration of 34 months (range 12–88) were analyzed. Pre-operative Constant-Murley scores improved significantly from 32 ± 19.0 to 58 ± 15.0 (p

One of the leading causes of failure for any bone implant is implant-associated infections. The implant-bone interface is in fact the crucial site of infection where both the microorganisms and cells compete to populate the newly introduced implant surface. Most of the work dealing with this issue has focused on the design of implant coatings capable of preventing infection while ignoring cell proliferation or vice versa. The present study is therefore focused on investigating the antibacterial and biological properties of nanocomposite coatings based on an amorphous hydrocarbon (a-C:H) matrix containing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). a-C:H coatings with varying silver concentrations were generated directly on medical grade titanium substrates using a combination of a gas aggregation source (GAS) and a plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PE-CVD) process. The obtained results revealed that the surface silver content increased from 1.3 at % to 5.3 at % by increasing the used DC magnetron current in the GAS from 200 to 500 mA. The in vitro antibacterial assays revealed that the nanocomposites with the highest number of silver content exhibited excellent antibacterial activities resulting in a 6-log reduction of Escherichia coli and a 4-log reduction of Staphylococcus aureus after 24 h of incubation. An MTT assay, fluorescence live/dead staining, and SEM microscopy observations of MC3T3 cells seeded on the uncoated and coated Ti substrates also showed that increasing the amount of AgNPs in the nanocomposites had no notable impact on their cytocompatibility, while improved cell proliferation was especially observed for the nanocomposites possessing a low amount of AgNPs. These controllable Ag/a-C:H nanocomposites on Ti substrates, which simultaneously provide an excellent antibacterial performance and good biocompatibility, could thus have promising applications in orthopedics and other biomedical implants.

Rotator cuff tears have a high prevalence in older people. This research examines the clinical outcome of the non-operative treatment of symptomatic degenerative rotator cuff tears with hyaluronic acid (HA) injections. 72 patients (43 females/29 males), with an average age of 66 years with symptomatic degenerative full- thickness rotator cuff tear, confirmed with arthro-CT, were treated with three intra-articular hyaluronic acid injections and followed on multiple observational moments during a 5-year follow-up using the SF- 36 (Short-Form Health Survey), DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand), CMS (Constant Murley Score), and OSS (Oxford Shoulder Scale. 54 patients completed the 5-year follow-up questionnaire. 77% of the patients did not require additional treatment for their shoulder pathology, and 89% were treated conservatively. Only 11% of the patients included in this study needed surgery. Between subjects, the analysis revealed a significant difference in response in the DASH (p=0.015) and CMS (p=0.033) when the subscapularis muscle was involved. Intra-articular infiltrations with hyaluronic acid improve pain and shoulder function, especially if the subscapularis muscle is not involved.

Residual horizontal instability after surgical treatment for acromioclavicular joint injuries is seen as a potential cause of suboptimal clinical outcomes. Biomechanical studies have demonstrated that the acromioclavicular capsule/ligaments are the primary restraints for anteroposterior translation. However, limited studies have addressed the biomechanics of a reconstruction of the acromioclavicular capsule/ligaments. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the biomechanical role of acromioclavicular capsule/ligament reconstruction techniques after an acromioclavicular joint injury.A search was carried out on the databases Medline and EMBASE, and was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. Biomechanical studies addressing horizontal and vertical displacement or joint stiffness after reconstructing the acromioclavicular capsule/ligament with or without coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction, were included.Nineteen studies were included in this review after screening and eligibility assessment. Five of them investigated different sole acromioclavicular capsule/ligament reconstruction techniques. In 10 studies, a sole coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction was compared to a coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction with additional acromioclavicular capsule/ligament reconstruction. The remaining 4 studies compared different acromioclavicular capsule/ligament with coracoclavicular reconstruction techniques with each other.Several testing protocols to evaluate acromioclavicular capsule/ligament reconstruction have been described and can make it difficult to compare the results of the different studies. Acromioclavicular capsule/ligament reconstruction may provide increased anteroposterior and rotational stability but an optimal reconstruction technique, which mimics all biomechanical characteristics of the native joint is not yet available.

Background: Previous cadaveric kinematic studies on acromioclavicular injuries described mainly rotational differences during humerothoracic movements. Although isolated scapulothoracic movements are also often performed during activities of daily life and can be painful after acromioclavicular injuries, they have not been extensively studied. Further, the analysis of joint translations in kinematic studies has received little attention compared with biomechanical studies. Hypothesis: A kinematic analysis of joint motions in the intact shoulder versus a shoulder with Rockwood V injury would demonstrate a different pattern of kinematic alterations during humerothoracic and scapulothoracic movements. Study design: Descriptive laboratory study. Methods: A kinematic analysis was performed in 14 cadaveric shoulders during 3 humerothoracic passive movements (coronal and sagittal plane elevation and horizontal adduction) and 3 scapulothoracic passive movements (protraction, retraction, and shrug). An optical navigation system registered rotational motions in the sternoclavicular, scapulothoracic, and acromioclavicular joints in the intact and Rockwood V conditions. In the acromioclavicular joint, mediolateral, anteroposterior, and superoinferior translations were also analyzed. Results: In the Rockwood V condition, a significant increase in clavicular elevation in the sternoclavicular joint during both humerothoracic and scapulothoracic movements was demonstrated, whereas a significant decrease in posterior rotation of the clavicle occurred only during humerothoracic movements. In the scapulothoracic joint, the scapular position changed most significantly during protraction. In the acromioclavicular joint, the scapular tilting position was altered significantly during both humerothoracic and scapulothoracic movements, whereas the scapular rotational position changed only during coronal and sagittal plane elevation. The largest significant changes in the scapular protraction position were seen during protraction movement. Further, in the acromioclavicular joint there was a significant inferior translation of the scapula during all motions, a significant anterior translation during protraction and horizontal adduction, and a significant posterior translation during coronal plane elevation. Mediolaterally, the acromial end of the scapula slid further under the distal clavicle during protraction than during horizontal adduction. Conclusion: Large kinematic differences were seen between the intact state and a Rockwood V lesion not only during humerothoracic movements but also during scapulothoracic movements in the cadaveric model. During humerothoracic movements, rotational differences were mainly caused by alterations in the clavicular position. In contrast, during protraction, the alterations in the scapular position were the dominant factor. Clinical Relevance: This study demonstrates that protraction induces larger kinematic alterations than horizontal adduction in acromioclavicular injuries and can therefore be included in both clinical examination and kinematic analyses to identify lesions more clearly.

Although degenerative osteoarthritis of the acromioclavicular joint is a common finding on technical investigations, not every patient experiences pain or function loss. The difference between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients is currently not elucidated. Therefore, we want to investigate the acromioclavicular relationship in normal, asymptomatic, and symptomatic degenerated ACJ. 84 normal ACJ, 39 asymptomatic degenerated ACJ, and 30 symptomatic degenerated ACJ were 3D reconstructed. The morphological dimensions and the relationship of the acromion and distal clavicle were measured using computational software. The reproducibility of this technique was evaluated using inter- and intra-observer reliability. The mean anteroposterior and superoinferior distance of both the clavicle and acromion was significantly larger in asymptomatic and symptomatic degenerative ACJ compared to the normal ACJ (p

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty has become the standard treatment for cuff tear arthropathy and complex fractures of the proximal humerus. The Delta Xtend prosthesis (DePuy Synthes, Warsaw, IN, USA) was launched in 2006 and has shown good short-term results. Longer-term results are not yet available.There were 126 primary Delta Xtend prostheses implanted in our center by 1 surgeon from October 2006 until December 2009. Of these, 38 patients died, 12 were lost to follow-up, and 2 needed early revision of the prosthesis. Follow-up of at least 8 years was available for 74 patients. At preoperative and postoperative visits, shoulder function and pain were evaluated using the age- and sex-adjusted Constant-Murley score (aCS). The satisfaction rate was evaluated on a visual analog scale (VAS).The mean follow-up in our population was 113.1 months. The mean aCS was 44.6% (standard deviation [SD], 19.2) preoperatively. It increased significantly (P .001) after surgery to 75.8% (SD, 12.5) at 3 months and 91.1% (SD, 11.8) at 5 years. At the latest follow-up, the mean aCS was only 79.9% (SD, 17.7), which was significantly lower (P = .002) than the aCS at 5 years postoperatively. An overall survival rate of more than 97% was seen at 8 years of follow-up.This study confirms that the promising short-term results of the Delta Xtend prosthesis can be extended in the longer-term. However, further follow-up will be necessary to check whether the statistically significant decrease in the Constant-Murley score at latest follow-up, which was driven by a decrease in range of motion and power, continues or not.

Introduction The radial head has an ellipsoid shape so that a longest and a shortest axis can be defined. The aim of this study is to evaluate the position of the longest axis of the radial head (LARH) in relation to proximal radioulnar joint (PRUJ) and to the forearm in neutral position using 3D computed tomography (CT). Materials and methods 3D CT reconstructions of the distal humerus, the radius and the ulna of 27 healthy volunteers (average age 27.65 ± 9.25; 24 males, 3 females) were created. First an evaluation of the elliptic form of the radial head and the location of its longest axis was performed. Next, three planes were defined: the PRUJ plane, the forearm plane and a neutral plane. Based on the angle between the forearm plane and the neutral plane, the rotation of the scanned forearm was measured. Taking this rotation into account, the position of the LARH compared to PRUJ plane and forearm plane in neutral position is recalculated. Results The shape of the radial head is determined to be non-circular based on this study population (p Conclusions The position of the LARH is found to be approximately perpendicular to the forearm plane when the forearm is in neutral position and perpendicular to the PRUJ plane when the forearm is on average in 30° of pronation.

A reinforced tubular, medicated electrospun construct was developed for deep flexor tendon repair. This construct combines mechanical strength with the release of anti-inflammatory and anti-adhesion drugs. In this study, the reinforced construct was evaluated using a rabbit model. It was compared to its components (a tubular, medicated electrospun polymer without reinforcement and a tubular braid as such) on the one hand to a modified Kessler suture as a control group. Forty New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into two groups. Surgery was performed in the second and fourth deep flexor tendons of one hind paw of the rabbits in the two groups using four repair techniques. Biomechanical tensile testing and macroscopic and histological evaluations were performed at 3 and 8 weeks postoperatively. A two-way analysis of variance with pairwise comparisons revealed that the three experimental surgical techniques (a reinforced tubular medicated electrospun construct, tubular-medicated construct, and tubular braid as such) showed similar strength as that of a modified Kessler suture repair, which was characterized by a mean load at ultimate failure of 19.85 N (standard deviation [SD] 5.29 N) at 3 weeks and 18.15 N (SD 8.01 N) at 8 weeks. Macroscopically, a significantly different adhesion pattern was observed at the suture knots, either centrally or peripherally, depending on the technique. Histologically, a qualitative assessment showed good to excellent repair at the tendon repair site, irrespective of the applied technique. This study demonstrates that mechanical and biological repair strategies for flexor tendon repair can be successfully combined. ispartof: JOURNAL OF ORTHOPAEDIC RESEARCH vol:40 issue:3 pages:750-760 ispartof: location:United States status: published

This research aims at developing a more potent solution for deep flexor tendon repair by combining a mechanical and biological approach. A reinforced, multi-layered electrospun tubular construct is developed, composed of three layers: an inner electrospun layer containing an anti-inflammatory component (Naproxen), a middle layer of braided monofilament as reinforcement and an outer electrospun layer containing an anti-adhesion component (hyaluronic acid, HA). In a first step, a novel acrylate endcapped urethane-based precursor (AUP) is developed and characterized by measuring molar mass, acrylate content and thermo-stability. The AUP material is benchmarked against commercially available poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL). Next, the materials are processed into multi-layered, tubular constructs with bio-active components (Naproxen and HA) using electrospinning. In vitro assays using human fibroblasts show that incorporation of the bio-active components is successful and not-cytotoxic. Moreover, tensile testing using ex vivo sheep tendons prove that the developed multi-layered constructs fulfill the required strength for tendon repair (i.e. 2.79-3.98 MPa), with an ultimate strength of 8.56 ± 1.92 MPa and 8.36 ± 0.57 MPa for PCL and AUP/PCL constructs respectively. In conclusion, by combining a mechanical approach (improved mechanical properties) with the incorporation of bio-active compounds (biological approach), this solution shows its potential for application in deep flexor tendon repair. ispartof: Materials Science and Engineering: C vol:119 ispartof: location:Netherlands status: Published online

Dit artikel wil praktische guidelines geven die een arts kan hanteren wanneer hij/zij bemerkt dat er bij een patiënt een medisch incident is gebeurd door toedoen van de arts zelf of een andere arts. Medische incidenten komen in 8% tot 12% van de hospitalisaties voor. Een medische fout is een vermijdbare tekortkoming van de zorgverlener, waar een complicatie een onbedoeld gevolg is van een medische ingreep.

Studies that analyse the epidemiology of acute injuries in basketball players in European countries are limited. The purpose is to present an overview of the incidence of injuries and injury patterns in Flanders and to correlate them to possible intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors. All acute injuries that occurred in Flanders during 2009-2013, collected by the insurance, were analysed. The incidence and parameters such as date of birth, date of occurrence of the injury, gender and diagnosis were evaluated. Injury incidence varied from 7.40% up to 8.45%. Females and players at age 16-17, 14-15 and older than 30 are at higher risk. The ankle/foot region is most frequently injured. There is a higher risk of injury after season-and Christmas break. Age, gender and chronometry are risk factors to get injured. Sprains are the most frequent, while the nkle/foot region is the most susceptible to injury. Studies that analyse the epidemiology of acute injuries in basketball players in European countries are limited. Female players and players at age 16-17, 14-15 and older than 30 are at higher risk to basketball injuries. The ankle/foot region is most frequently injured followed by lower arm and hand. There is a higher risk of injury after season-and Christmas break.

Background: Patients with an uncontained glenoid bone defect can still successfully undergo a reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA). Currently, there is a tendency toward reconstruction of the premorbid glenoid plane with bone grafts, which is technically demanding. We investigated whether central peg positioning in the spine pillar (CPPSP) is a more feasible alternative to the use of bone grafts. Methods: This study included 60 revisions to an RTSA with uncontained glenoid bone defects. Patients were treated with bone grafts in 29 cases and with the CPPSP technique in 31 cases. We assessed clinical results using the Constant score and assessed the complication rate. Results: The Constant score changed from 42 to 69 points in the CPPSP group and from 47 to 60 points in the bone graft group. This difference in the increase in the Constant score was significant (P = .031) owing to a significant difference in strength in favor of the CPPSP group. The overall complication rate was 37.7% (20 of 53 patients), with a reoperation rate of 18.9% (10 of 53). Dislocations occurred only in the CPPSP group (n = 3), and loosening of the glenoid occurred only in the bone graft group (n = 3). Conclusion: Patients with uncontained glenoid bone defects undergoing revision to an RTSA obtain similar clinical results with the CPPSP technique compared with the use of bone grafts. The CPPSP technique is a valid alternative but results in different complications. (C) 2020 Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Board of Trustees. All rights reserved.

Current classifications of midshaft clavicle fractures are based on radiography. The aim of the study was to evaluate the fracture pattern of clavicle fractures using 3-dimensional computed tomography (3D CT). A retrospective analysis was performed on CT scans of 65 acute clavicle fractures. Using quantitative 3D CT reconstruction techniques, the fracture of the clavicle was virtually reduced. Based on these reconstructions, a group-based fracture heat map and small fragment heat map, and the location of the most common fracture line were determined. Also, the direction and amount of displacement were evaluated. Three fracture patterns could be distinguished. The primary fracture line in type 1 is going from posteromedial to anterolateral and located between 50% and 68% of the clavicle’s length. In type 2, a transverse fracture line is located around 55%, and in type 3, a superolateral to inferomedial line is located between 47% and 56%. Wedged fracture fragments can be seen in types 1 and 2 and are mainly situated inferiorly. The displacement is similar in all types, but the main direction of displacement is specific for the different types (posterior, anterior, inferior). We can conclude that several fracture patterns can be seen in clavicle fractures. Most fractures are located laterally at the midshaft of the clavicle. Wedged segments are mainly located inferiorly, and at the posterior part of the clavicle, no comminution is ever seen. The direction of displacement depends on the fracture pattern.

The aim was to compare the outcome of a reversed shoulder arthroplasty with a latissiumus dorsi transfer without (LD-BB) or with bone block (LD+BB) in patients with rotator cuff-deficient shoulders and combined loss of active elevation and external rotation. Postoperative patients with LD+BB were not immobilized compared to 6 weeks of immobilization in patients with LD-BB. Clinical outcome was evaluated using the Constant Score, ADLER score and satisfaction rate. Also radiological follow-up of the bone-block was performed. In total 29 patients (21 LD+BB, 8 LD-BB) were evaluated. There was no significant difference between both groups at 3 months, 6 months and 1 year in clinical outcome. The radiological evaluation revealed remodellation and ingrowth of the bone block in all but one patient. We conclude that the bone block procedure is a safe technique to perform a LD transfer with good clinical outcome. It also allows early mobilisation and radiological evaluation.

Infection associated with titanium based implants remains the most serious problem in implant surgery hence it is important to find optimal strategies to prevent infections. In the present study, we investigated the surface properties, antibacterial activity and biocompatibility of nanocomposite coatings based on an amorphous hydrocarbon (a-C:H) film containing copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) deposited on Ti discs via a gas aggregation cluster source. Three different Cu/a-C:H coatings with approximately the same amount of embedded CuNPs with and without barrier a-C:H layer were fabricated. The obtained results revealed that different structures of the produced coatings have significantly different release rates of Cu ions from the coatings into the aqueous media. This subsequently influences the antibacterial efficiency and osteoblast cell viability of the treated coatings. Coatings with the highest number of CuNPs resulted in excellent antibacterial activity exhibiting approximately 4 log reduction of E.coli and S.aureus after 24 h incubation. The cytotoxicity study revealed that after 7 day cell seeding, even the coating with the highest Cu at.% (4 at.%) showed a cell viability of 90%. Consequently, the coating, formed with a properly tailored number of CuNPs and a-C:H barrier thickness offer a strong antibacterial effect without any harm to osteoblast cells.

Recently, the 3-dimensional (3D) morphology of the coracoacromial complex in nonpathologic shoulders has been described. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the coracoacromial complex in pathologic shoulders (glenohumeral osteoarthritis [GHOA] and cuff tear arthropathy [CTA]) and nonpathologic shoulders.A 3D computed tomography reconstruction of 205 scapulae was performed (49 with GHOA, 48 with CTA, and 108 in normal shoulders [NL]). Subsequently, the center of the glenoid circle and several points at the coracoid, acromion, and glenoid were determined. The distances between these points and the rotation of the coracoacromial complex were calculated, and the acromion-glenoid angle was measured.The acromial overhang was significantly different between the NL (37 mm) and CTA (35 mm) groups (P = .045), as well as between the CTA and GHOA groups (33 mm) (P = .010). The acromion-glenoid angle showed a significant difference between the NL (mean, 50°) and GHOA (mean, 42°) groups (P.001) and between the CTA (mean, 50°) and GHOA groups (P.001). Furthermore, a significant difference was found in the acromial height, which was larger in the GHOA group (36 mm) than in the CTA group (30 mm) (P.001) or NL group (30 mm) (P.001).This 3D morphologic study showed that the acromial part of the complex was turned more posteriorly in both pathologic groups. Furthermore, we found the coracoacromial complex to be more cranial to the glenoid center in the GHOA group. Finally, a significant difference in the lateral overhang of the coracoacromial complex was observed between the 3 groups. The NL group had a larger overhang than the CTA group, and the CTA group in turn had a larger overhang than the GHOA group.

Patients with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) report cognitive difficulties, affecting the ability to represent, perceive and use their affected limb. Moseley, Gallace & Spence (2009) observed that CRPS patients tend to bias the perception of tactile stimulation away from the pathological limb. Interestingly, this bias was reversed when CRPS patients were asked to cross their arms, implying that this bias is embedded in a complex representation of the body that takes into account the position of body-parts. Other studies have failed to replicate this finding (Filbrich et al., 2017) or have even found a bias in the opposite direction (Sumitani et al., 2007). Moreover, perceptual biases in CRPS patients have not often been compared to these of other chronic pain patients. Chronic pain patients are often characterized by an excessive focus of attention for bodily sensations. We might therefore expect that non-CRPS pain patients would show a bias towards instead of away from their affected limb. The aim of this study was to replicate the study of Moseley, Gallace & Spence (2009) and to extend it by comparing perceptual biases in a CRPS group with two non-CRPS pain control groups (i.e., chronic unilateral wrist and shoulder pain patients). In a temporal order judgment (TOJ) task, participants reported which of two tactile stimuli, one applied to either hand at various intervals, was perceived as occurring first. TOJs were made, either with the arms in a normal (uncrossed) position, or with the arms crossed over the body midline. We found no consistent perceptual biases in either of the patient groups and in either of the conditions (crossed/uncrossed). Individual differences were large and might, at least partly, be explained by other variables, such as pain duration and temperature differences between the pathological and non-pathological hand. Additional studies need to take these variables into account by, for example, comparing biases in CRPS (and non-CRPS) patients in an acute versus a chronic pain state.

The objective of this study was the development of Ag-rich antibacterial coatings on titanium to prevent post-operative infections. A series of Ag-doped TiO2 coatings were synthesized on Ti discs by plasma electrolytic oxidation in an electrolyte containing AgNPs. The incorporation, distribution and chemical composition of the AgNPs on Ti were determined using scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy. The crystalline structure and wettability of the coating was characterized by X-ray diffraction and water contact angle analysis respectively. Surface roughness and hardness of the coating were examined using surface profilometry and Knoop indentation test respectively, while silver ion release was quantified using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectroscopy. Following PEO, the surface of the Ti substrate was converted to TiO2 composed of anatase and rutile phases. The SEM micrographs showed that the AgNPs were distributed throughout the oxide layer, without changing the morphology of the coating. The coatings also revealed an increased surface roughness, microhardness and improved surface wettability relative to untreated Ti substrates. Furthermore, the incorporation of Ag into the coating did not alter the phase component, roughness, microhardness and wettability. A series of in-vitro antibacterial assays indicated that increasing the number of AgNPs in the electrolyte led to excellent antibacterial activities.

The success of an orthopedic implant therapy depends on successful bone integration and the prevention of microbial infections. In this work, plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) was performed to deposit TiO2 coatings enriched with Ca, P, and Ag on titanium to improve its surface properties and antibacterial blasts efficacy while maintaining normal biological functions and thus to enhance the performance of orthopedic implants. After PEO treatment, the surface of Ti was converted to anatase and rutile TiO2, hydroxyapatite, and calcium titanate phases. The presence of these crystalline phases was further increased with an increased Ag content in the coatings. The developed coatings also exhibited a more porous morphology with an improved surface wettability, roughness, microhardness, and frictional coefficient. In vitro antibacterial assays indicated that the Ag-doped coatings can significantly prevent the growth of both Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli by releasing Ag+ ions, and the ability to prevent these bacteria was enhanced by increasing the Ag content in the coatings, resulting in a maximal 6-log reduction of E. coli and a maximal 5-log reduction of S. aureus after 24 h of incubation. Moreover, the in vitro cytocompatibility evaluation of the coatings showed that the osteoblast (MC3T3) cell integration on the PEO-based coatings was greatly improved compared to untreated Ti and no notable impact on their cytocompatibility was observed on increasing the amount of Ag in the coating. In conclusion, the coating with favorable physicochemical and mechanical properties along with controlled silver ion release can offer an excellent antibacterial performance and osteocompatibility and can thus become a prospective coating strategy to face current challenges in orthopedics.

Background The etiology of tennis elbow is multifactorial. Overuse of the wrist extensors along with anatomic factors, such as flexibility problems, aging, and poor blood circulation, may play a role. This study investigated whether patients with tennis elbow have a different psychological profile compared with healthy controls. Methods Patients with clinical signs of tennis elbow, consulting at the Ghent University Hospital between September 2015 and January 2017, were offered a paper-and-pencil questionnaire about Big Five personality traits, perfectionism, anxiety, depression, work satisfaction, and working conditions. Healthy controls in the same risk group were offered the same questionnaires. Results We recruited 69 patients (35 men, 34 women) and 100 controls (44 men, 56 women). Tennis elbow patients scored significantly lower on the personality traits extraversion and agreeableness. Men, in particular, scored significantly higher on perfectionism and were more likely to develop an anxiety disorder or a depression. Concerning work, patients indicated a significantly higher workload (especially men) and a significantly lower autonomy (especially women). Female patients also indicated less contact with colleagues. However, work satisfaction was relatively high in both groups. Conclusion The results suggest that there is a relationship between complaints related to tennis elbow and psychological characteristics.

Background The humeral subluxation index (HSI) is frequently assessed on computed tomography (CT) scans in conditions of the shoulder characterized by humeral displacement. An arbitrarily set HSI cutoff value of 45% for anterior subluxation and 55% for posterior subluxation has been widely accepted. We studied whether mean values and thresholds of humeral subluxation, in relation to the glenoid and scapula, were influenced by different imaging modalities. Methods The HSIs referenced to the scapula (SHSI) and glenoid (GHSI) were compared between conventional CT scans, CT scans reoriented into the corresponding reference plane (ie, scapular plane for the SHSI and glenoid center plane for the GHSI), and 3-dimensional (3D) CT reconstructions of 120 healthy shoulders. The 95% normal range determined the cutoff values of humeral subluxation. Results The SHSI thresholds for conventional, reoriented, and 3D CT scans were 33%-61%, 44%-68%, and 49%-61%, respectively. A different mean SHSI was found for each imaging modality (conventional, 47%; reoriented, 56%; 3D, 55%; P ≤ .014), with the conventional SHSI showing an underestimation in 89% of the cases. GHSI thresholds for conventional, reoriented, and 3D CT scans were 40%-61%, 44%-56%, and 46%-54%, respectively. The mean GHSI did not differ between each imaging modality (conventional, 51%; reoriented, 50%; 3D, 50%; P = .146). Conclusions The SHSI and GHSI are susceptible to different imaging modalities with consequently different cutoff values. The redefined HSI cutoff values guide physicians in the evaluation of humeral subluxation in conditions characterized by humeral displacement, depending on the available image data.

Assessment of glenohumeral subluxation is essential in preoperative planning of total shoulder arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a 3-dimensional (3D) glenohumeral subluxation index (GHSI) in shoulders with primary osteoarthritis (OA) and its relationship with morbid glenoid retroversion.The 3D computed tomography reconstructions of 120 healthy shoulders and 110 shoulders with primary glenohumeral arthritis (OA group), classified according to Walch's glenoid morphology, were analyzed. The 3D GHSI was assessed by measuring posterior decentering of the humeral head in relation to the native glenoid in each subject, and its correlation to morbid glenoid version was calculated.The reproducible 3D GHSI (intraclass correlation coefficients ≥ 0.842) showed a posterior decentering of the humeral head in the OA population and in each type of glenoid morphology (P ≤ .005). A moderate correlation was observed in the OA group (r = -0.542; P .001), but weak linear relationships were found for different glenoid morphology types (r between 0.041 and -0.307). Type A shoulders (r = -0.375; P = .006) correlated better than type B shoulders (r = -0.217; P = .104). After shoulders were subcategorized according to a threshold for 3D subluxation, the posteriorly subluxated group increased its correlation (r = -0.438; P .001), whereas the centered shoulders still exhibited no relationship (r = -0.192; P = .329).Posterior humeral head decentering in relation to the native glenoid is present in each glenoid morphology type. Grouping measures according to morphology type and 3D subluxation showed at best moderate correlations between morbid version and 3D GHSI.

BACKGROUND: Muscle volume is important in shoulder function. It can be used to estimate shoulder muscle balance in health, pathology, and repair and is indicative of strength based on muscle size. Although prior studies have shown that muscle area on two-dimensional (2-D) images correlates with three-dimensional (3-D) muscle volume, they have not provided equations to predict muscle volume from imaging nor validation of the measurements. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: We wished to create an algorithm that quickly, accurately, and reliably estimates the volume of the shoulder muscles using cross-sectional area on MR images with low error. Specifically, we wished to (1) determine which MR imaging planes provide the highest correlation between shoulder muscle cross-sectional area and volume; (2) derive equations to predict muscle volume from cross-sectional area and validate their predictive capability; and (3) quantify the reliability of muscle cross-sectional area measurement. METHODS: Three-dimensional MRI was performed on 10 cadaver shoulders, with sample size chosen for comparison to prior studies of shoulder muscle volume and in consideration of the cost of comprehensive analysis, followed by dissection for muscle volume measurement via water displacement. From each MR series, 3-D models of the rotator cuff and deltoid muscles were generated, and 2-D slices of these muscle models were selected at defined anatomic landmarks. Linear regression equations were generated to predict muscle volume at the plane(s) with the highest correlation between volume and area and for planes identified in prior studies of muscle volume and area. Volume predictions from MR scans of six different cadaver shoulders were also made, after which they were dissected to quantify muscle volume. This validation population allowed the calculation of the predictive error compared with actual muscle volume. Finally, reliability of measuring muscle areas on MR images was calculated using intraclass correlation coefficients for inter-rater reliability, as measured between two observers at a single time point. RESULTS: The rotator cuff planes with the highest correlation between volume and area were the sum of the glenoid face and the midpoint of the scapula, and for the deltoid, it was the transverse plane at the top of the greater tuberosity. Water and digital muscle volumes were highly correlated (r ≥ 0.993, error < 4%), and muscle areas correlated highly with volumes (r ≥ 0.992, error < 2%). All correlations had p < 0.001. Muscle volume was predicted with low mean error (< 10%). All intraclass correlation coefficients were > 0.925, suggesting high inter-rater reliability in determining muscle areas from MR images. CONCLUSION: Deltoid and rotator cuff muscle cross-sectional areas can be reliably measured on MRI and predict muscle volumes with low error. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Using simple linear equations, 2-D muscle area measurements from common clinical image analysis software can be used to estimate 3-D muscle volumes from MR image data. Future studies should determine if these muscle volume estimations can be used in the evaluation of patient function, changes in shoulder health, and in populations with muscle atrophy. Additionally, these muscle volume estimation techniques can be used as inputs to musculoskeletal models examining kinetics and kinematics of humans that rely on subject-specific muscle architecture.