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Purpose: To describe a patient with posterior ischemic optic neuropathy (PION) after cervical spine surgery who recovered after treatment.Case summary: A 51-year-old woman presented with eye pain and decreased visual acuity in the left eye, which had begun 8 hours after cervical spine surgery in the prone position. Her best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 20/20 in the right eye and hand motion in the left eye; a relative afferent pupillary defect was present in the left eye. Ductions and versions were normal with pain in the left eye. The results of slit lamp examination, fundoscopic examination, fluorescein angiography, and optical coherence tomography were unremarkable in both eyes. Brain and orbital magnetic resonance imaging showed no abnormal findings in the visual pathway, such as brain infarction or intracranial artery stenosis. The patient was diagnosed with PION in the left eye. Because postoperative anemia had developed with a rapid decrease in hemoglobin from 14.7 g/dL to 9.9 g/dL, red blood cell (RBC) transfusion was performed together with intravenous high-dose steroid therapy and subcutaneous epoetin alfa injection. After 3 weeks, the patient’s BCVA improved to 20/22 in the left eye.Conclusions: Unilateral PION developed after cervical spine surgery in the prone position. Visual improvement was observed after RBC transfusion, intravenous high-steroid therapy, and subcutaneous epoetin alfa injection.

Purpose We investigated and compared the serum 25-OH vitamin D [25(OH)D] level and prevalence of vitamin D deficiency (VDD) between patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and healthy participants through a matched analysis. Methods The unmatched case group consisted of 824 patients who underwent TKA and the unmatched control group 2,794 healthy participants examined at our institution. The control group was matched on the various characteristics—sex, age, weight, body mass index (BMI), blood chemistry, and season of sampling—through propensity score matching (PSM). After PSM, 501 and 721 patients were matched in the case and control group, respectively. Levels of blood chemistry including 25(OH)D were examined and VDD was defined as Results The average serum 25(OH)D level was significantly lower in the OA group (15.3 ng/mL) than that in the control group (19.9 ng/mL, p Conclusions The patients who underwent TKA had lower serum 25(OH)D level and higher VDD prevalence compared to the healthy participants who matched using PSM. There were no differences in VDD rates by sex or obesity and the VDD prevalence was more than 70% during all season. Therefore, in patients undergoing TKA, general attention to VDD is required regardless of sex, obesity, and season. Summary Serum 25-OH vitamin D [25(OH)D] level and vitamin D deficiency (VDD) prevalence were compared between patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty and healthy individuals. The differences in serum 25(OH)D level and VDD prevalence were significant between the two groups after propensity score matching

To evaluate the association between posterior tibial slope (PTS) and the short-term results of conservative treatment for the patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears. Thirty-seven patients (37 knees: male 33, female 4) who were managed with the same treatment protocols for ACL tears were included. All patients applied ACL brace and underwent standardized rehabilitation protocol. Group A consisted of 14 patients with successful results after conservative management and group B consisted of 23 patients who received operative treatments due to failed conservative management. For each group, a plain radiograph was used to measure the PTS. The demographic data of patients and differences of PTS between each group were analyzed. The mean age was 33.2 years in group A and 29.7 years in group B, respectively (p = 0.8). There was no significant difference between each group in terms of gender, body mass index, and injury mechanism. There was no significant difference between each group in the classification according to the isolated or combined injury (p = 0.83). The mean PTS was 8.3° in group A and 10.2° in group B. The mean PTS in group A was significantly lower than that in group B (p = 0.03). The patients with successful results after conservative management had a lower mean PTS than those with failed conservative treatment (8.3° vs. 10.2°, p = 0.03). The failure of conservative treatment after ACL tear was found to be associated with increased PTS.

Purpose To evaluate the radiographic and clinical follow-up results of iatrogenic medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries caused by valgus stress during arthroscopic surgery of the knee. Methods This study retrospectively evaluated 15 knees in 15 patients (8 female and 7 male patients), with a mean age of 58 years (range, 45-66 years), with iatrogenic MCL injuries caused by valgus stress during arthroscopic surgery of the knee. All patients were treated conservatively without an immobilizer or brace. The mean follow-up period was 24 months (range, 18-51 months). Evaluations included magnetic resonance imaging immediately postoperatively, as well as physical examinations and valgus stress radiographs (at 0° and 30° of knee flexion) 6 weeks after surgery and at final follow-up. Results Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging in all patients showed increased signal intensity, swelling, and partial loss of continuity at the meniscofemoral portion of the MCL. Physical examination showed mild tenderness in only 1 patient after 6 weeks and none at final follow-up. Valgus stress tests and valgus stress radiographs showed no significant differences between the injured and uninjured knees at 6 weeks postoperatively and at final follow-up (P > .05). Conclusions Iatrogenic MCL injuries during arthroscopic knee surgery could be treated successfully without a splint or brace. Level of Evidence Level IV, prognostic case series.

The aim of this study was to test the clinical efficacy of TissueGene-C (TG-C), a cell and gene therapeutic for osteoarthritis consisting of non-transformed and transduced chondrocytes (3:1) retrovirally transduced to overexpress transforming growth factor-β1. A total of 163 Kellgren-Lawrence grade 3 patients with knee osteoarthritis were randomly assigned to receive intra-articular TG-C or placebo. Primary efficacy measures included criteria for subjective assessment by International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) and pain severity by Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for 52 weeks. Secondary efficacy measures included IKDC and VAS at 26 and 39 weeks; pain, stiffness, and physical function by the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC); and pain, symptoms, daily activities, function in sports and recreation, and quality of life by the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging, and soluble urine and blood biomarkers. TG-C was associated with statistically significant improvement over placebo in the total IKDC score and individual categories, and in the VAS score at 26, 39, and 52 weeks. WOMAC and KOOS scores also improved with TG-C over placebo. Patients treated with TG-C showed trends directed toward thicker cartilage and slower growing rates of subchondral bone surface area in the medial tibia, lateral tibia, lateral patella, and lateral patella femoral regions, although these were not statistically significant (p 0.05). Serum C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX-I) and urine CTX-II levels were lower over 1 year in TG-C than placebo-treated patients, with CTX-I level reaching statistical significance. These tendencies supported TG-C as holding great potential as a disease-modifying osteoarthritis drug. The most frequent adverse events in the TG-C group were peripheral edema (9%), arthralgia (8%), joint swelling (6%), and injection site pain (5%). TG-C was associated with statistically significant improvements in function and pain in patients with knee osteoarthritis. The unexpected adverse events were not observed.

To overcome the limitation of short-term efficacy of virtual reality (VR), an enhanced reality (ER) analgesia, (combination of the VR, real-time motion capture, mirror therapy [MT]) involving a high degree of patients’ presence or embodiment was explored. Patients, who underwent unilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA), received ER analgesia. The duration was 5 times a week, for 2 weeks for one group and 5 times a week, for 1 week in the other. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) at rest and during movement, active knee range of motion (ROM) for flexion and extension were measured repeatedly. After screening 157 patients, 60 were included. Pre-interventional evaluation was performed at 6.7 days and ER was initiated at 12.4 days after surgery. Evaluation was performed at 5, 12, 33 days after the initiation of ER. Analgesia in the 2 week therapy group was effective until the third evaluation (p = 0.000), whereas in the other group, it was effective only until the second evaluation (p = 0.010). Improvement in ROM in the 2 week group was also maintained until the third evaluation (p = 0.037, p = 0.009). It could lay the foundations for the development of safe and long-lasting analgesic tools.

Background The purpose of this study was to compare the results of arthroscopically guided suprascapular nerve block (SSNB) and blinded axillary nerve block with those of blinded SSNB in terms of postoperative pain and satisfaction within the first 48 hours after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Methods Forty patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair for medium-sized full thickness rotator cuff tears were included in this study. Among them, 20 patients were randomly assigned to group 1 and preemptively underwent blinded SSNB and axillary nerve block of 10 mL 0.25% ropivacaine and received arthroscopically guided SSNB with 10 mL of 0.25% ropivacaine. The other 20 patients were assigned to group 2 and received blinded SSNB with 10 mL of 0.25% ropivacaine. Visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain and patient satisfaction score were assessed 4, 8, 12, 24, 36, and 48 hours postoperatively. Results The mean VAS score for pain was significantly lower 4, 8, 12, 24, 36, and 48 hours postoperatively in group 1 (group 1 vs. group 2; 5.2 vs. 7.4, 4.1 vs. 6.1, 3.0 vs. 5.1, 2.1 vs. 4.2, 0.9 vs. 3.9, and 1.3 vs. 3.3, respectively). The mean patient satisfaction score was significantly higher at postoperative 4, 8, 12, 24, 36, and 48 hours in group 1 (group 1 vs. group 2; 6.7 vs. 3.9, 7.4 vs. 5.1, 8.8 vs. 5.9, 9.2 vs. 6.7, 9.5 vs. 6.9, and 9.0 vs. 7.2, respectively). Conclusions Arthroscopically guided SSNB and blinded axillary nerve block in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair for medium-sized rotator cuff tears provided more improvement in VAS for pain and greater patient satisfaction in the first 48 postoperative hours than blinded SSNB.

Pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) is a proliferative disease that develops in the synovium of joints, especially the knee joints. A 52-year-old man visited our hospital with left knee pain, swelling and symptoms of collapse. Twenty-one years earlier, he had undergone anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using an active bioprosthetic composite (ABC) as an artificial ligament. T1 and T2 weighted magnetic resonance imaging of the knee joint showed rupture of the ABC ligament and low signal intensity of hyperplastic synovium. Arthroscopic total synovectomy without ACL reconstruction was performed and the lesion was histopathologically diagnosed as diffuse PVNS. Clinical outcomes included good pain relief and no recurrence of the disease after 5 years of follow-up.

Background We evaluated the effectiveness of postoperative pain management using intraoperative periarticular injection (PAI) and/or electromyography-guided preoperative femoral nerve block (FNB) in knees undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Methods This study included 90 patients (90 knees) who underwent primary TKA. Thirty patients received a single injection of electromyography-guided FNB, 30 received intraoperative PAI, and 30 received both. Pain at rest and while moving was evaluated by a visual analog scale (VAS) at 0, 4, 8, 24, and 48 hours. Postoperative range of motion, time to walking, amount of opioid consumption, and complications were analyzed. Results VAS immediately after surgery was significantly higher in the FNB group than in the PAI and combined groups, but did not differ significantly in the latter 2 groups. VAS after 4 and 8 hours showed similar results. VAS after 24 hours was significantly higher in the PAI than in the FNB and combined groups. After 48 hours, there were no differences among the 3 groups. Total opioid consumption was lower in the combined than in the FNB and PAI groups. Postoperative range of motion and time to walking were similar in the 3 groups. Conclusion PAI was more effective than FNB during the early (0-8 hours) postoperative period after TKA. Patients treated with PAI, however, experienced rebound pain at 24 hours. The combination of PAI and FNB may provide greater postoperative pain management than either alone for the first 24 hours after TKA.

Purpose To investigate the patterns of medial meniscus (MM) tears in patients with varus knee osteoarthritis who underwent total knee arthroplasty and analyze the factors that could affect MM tears. Materials and Methods The patients (365 knees, 268 patients) were classified into three groups; group I with MM posterior horn (PH) tear only; group II with MM root tear only; and group III with MMPH plus root tear. The following factors were evaluated: age, gender, body mass index, varus deviation of the mechanical axis, medial proximal tibial angle, posterior tibial slope (PTS), and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) integrity (normal, degeneration, and tear or absence). Results MM tears were identified in all knees. The patterns of the combined MMPH tears in group III were less complex than those in group I. Varus deviation and PTS were significantly greater in group III than groups I and II. In group III, there were significantly more cases of ACL tear or absence than groups I and II. The others showed no differences among three groups. Conclusions Severe varus knee osteoarthritis was always accompanied by MM tears. Risk factors for MMPH plus root tears were severe varus deformity, great PTS, and ACL tear or absence.

This study was aimed to evaluate the stability of conjugated linoleic acids (CLAs) by nano-encapsulation against in vitro ruminal biohydrogenation by microbial enzymatic conversion. CLAs (free fatty acid form of CLA [CLA-FFA], nano-encapsulated CLA-FFA, triglyceride form of CLA [CLA-TG], and nano-encapsulated CLA-TG) were used in the in vitro fermentation experiments. When Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens (B. fibrisolvens) was incubated with CLA-FFAs, the concentrations of cis-9, trans-11 CLA and vaccenic acid (VA) slightly was decreased and increased by nano-encapsulation, respectively. When B. fibrisolvens was incubated with CLA-TG, the concentrations of cis-9, trans-11 CLA and VA decreased, but these were increased when B. fibrisolvens was incubated with nano-encapsulated CLA-TG. The nano-encapsulation was more effective against the in vitro biohydrogenation activity of B.fibrisolvens incubated with CLA-FFA than with CLA-TG. In the in vitro ruminal incubation test, the total gas production and concentration of total volatile fatty acids incubated with nano-encapsulated CLA-FFA and CLA-TG were increased significantly after 24 h incubation (p

Hypoplasia of the meniscus is a very rare congenital abnormality, with only a few cases reported to date. A 9-year-old girl visited our hospital due to lateral knee pain following a hyperextension injury to the left knee. Magnetic resonance imaging showed hypoplasia of the medial and lateral menisci, as well as a posterior horn tear of the lateral meniscus, in both knee joints. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a patient with hypoplasia of the medial and lateral menisci in both knee joints.

Purpose: This study assessed the levels of soluble tumor necrosis factor–like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) and matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP-1) in the synovial fluid from osteoarthritic knees to determine their role as well as the relationship between these levels and the severity of osteoarthritis (OA). Methods: Synovial fluid was obtained from 44 knees of 40 patients. The Kellgren–Lawrence (KL) grade was measured using radiograph. The concentration of TWEAK and MMP-1 in the synovial fluid was assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The underlying inflammatory factors (erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein) were also measured. We analyzed the correlation between the factors measured. In addition, the samples were subdivided into three groups according to OA severity using the KL grade, and the differences in TWEAK and MMP-1 levels between groups were analyzed. Results: The TWEAK and MMP-1 levels in the synovial fluid showed a positive correlation with each other. The TWEAK and MMP-1 levels were compared between the three groups according to the KL grade, and the levels showed a significant difference. A post hoc test demonstrated that the group with advanced OA showed a lower concentration of both factors when compared to groups with early OA. Conclusion: The concentration of TWEAK and MMP-1 in the synovial fluid were relatively high in the early stage of OA, and the levels decreased as the OA progressed.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between posterior tibial slope (PTS) and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) graft rupture in patients who have undergone ACL reconstruction by comparing results in patients who experienced graft rupture and a matched control group.The study included 64 knees of 64 patients (58 men and 6 women), of mean age 31 years (range, 18-60 years) who underwent revision ACL reconstruction for ACL graft rupture, as well as a control group without ACL graft rupture matched for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and left or right side. The mean time to failure in study group was 48.5 months, and after revision surgeries, the mean follow-up period was 37.7 months. The graft used for the primary surgery was autograft in 3 patients (4.7%) and allograft in 49 patients (76.6%). The type of graft could not be confirmed in the remaining 12 patients (18.7%). PTS was measured on plain radiographs and compared in the 2 groups.Mean PTS was significantly higher in patients with (13.2° ± 2.5°; range, 8.5°-18.2°) than without (10.9° ± 3.1°; range, 4.9°-13.6°) rerupture (P.01). When mean PTS was compared in the 37 patients who underwent primary surgery by the same surgeon, it was significantly higher in patients with (13.5° ± 2.5°; range, 8.5°-18.2°) than without (11.1° ± 2.9°; range, 5.1°-13.6°) rerupture (P.01). PTS in patients with rerupture was not significantly associated with age, gender, BMI, and right or left side. The odds ratio of ACL graft rupture in knees with PTS ≥12° was 4.52 (P.001).This study showed that mean PTS was significantly greater in patients with than without noncontact ACL graft rerupture (13.2° vs 10.9°, P.01). The failure of ACL reconstruction appears to be associated with increased PTS, with PTS ≥12° a risk factor for the failure of ACL reconstruction.Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Purpose To evaluate minimum 5-year follow-up clinical and radiological results of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) using a posterior cruciate ligament sacrificing (PS), non-substituting Advance Medial Pivot Knee. Materials and Methods One hundred and twenty knees in 80 patients who could be followed up for more than 5 years after TKA using the PS Advance Medial Pivot Knee were evaluated retrospectively. The evaluations included the preoperative and postoperative range of motion (ROM), tibiofemoral angle, Knee Society (KS) knee and function scores, and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) score. The Kaplan-Meier method was used for survival analysis. Results The ROM increased from a preoperative mean flexion contracture of 7.6° and further flexion of 115.1° to a postoperative mean flexion contracture of 1.5° and further flexion of 120.5°. The tibiofemoral angle was changed from 4.6° varus preoperatively to 5.8° valgus postoperatively. The KS knee and function scores as well as WOMAC score significantly improved after surgery (p

Introduction We analyzed the location of femoral and tibial tunnels by three-dimensional (3D) CT reconstruction images after modified transtibial single bundle (SB) anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, creating a femoral tunnel with varus and internal rotation of the tibia. Material and methods Data from 50 patients (50 knees) analyzed by 3D CT after modified transtibial SB ACL reconstructions were evaluated. 3D CT images were analyzed according to the quadrant method by Bernard at the femur and the technique of Forsythe at the tibia. Results The mean distance of the femoral tunnel center locations parallel to the Blumensaat's line was 29.6% ± 1.9% along line t measured from the posterior condylar surface. The mean distances perpendicular to the Blumensaat's line were 37.9% ± 2.5% along line h measured from the Blumensaat's line. At the tibia, the mean anterior-to-posterior distance for the tunnel center location was 37.8% ± 1.2% and the mean medial-to-lateral distance was 50.4% ± 0.9%. Discussion The femoral and tibial tunnels after modified transtibial SB ACL reconstruction creating a femoral tunnel with varus and internal rotation of the tibia (figure-of-4 position) were located between the anatomical anteromedial and posterolateral footprints.

Mucoid degeneration of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a little-known entity. The aim of this study was to detail the clinical, radiological, arthroscopic and pathological findings of this condition and to report clinical outcomes following arthroscopic partial excision of the ACL. Between 1999 and 2009, 80 knees in 78 patients were diagnosed as having mucoid degeneration of the ACL based on MRI and clinical findings, and subsequently underwent arthroscopic treatment. Of these, 68 knees in 66 patients, with a median age of 51 years (range, 35–75 years), were followed-up for at least one year. All patients had insidious onset of knee pain, while 56 knees (82 %) had associated extension deficits and 36 knees (53 %) had restricted flexion. MRI findings typically showed diffuse thickening and increased signal intensity of the ACL. Arthroscopic examination revealed notch impingement and bulging of hypertrophied ACL into lateral compartments. Associated lesions included meniscal tears in 33 knees and chondral lesions of at least Outerbridge grade 2 in 56 knees. All knees underwent arthroscopic partial excision of the hypertrophied ACL, with three undergoing preoperative and 30 undergoing concomitant meniscectomies. Pain relief was achieved in 58 of 62 knees (94 %) following partial excision of the ACL. Extension deficits were normalized in 49 of 56 knees (88 %), and restricted flexion was normalized in 33 of 36 affected knees (92 %). Four knees of four patients had postoperative symptoms of anterior instability. Pain and limitation of motion due to mucoid degeneration of the ACL can be improved by arthroscopic partial excision of the ACL with or without notchplasty. However, one potential complication is the development of postoperative symptoms of anterior instability. Retrospective study, Level IV.

Ethnopharmacology relevanceA previous study indicated non-inferiority of GCSB-5 to celecoxib regarding efficacy and safety in treating OA; however, the gastrointestinal (GI) safety data was limited to 12 weeks. Accordingly, a longer term study with a larger number of patients was necessary to establish the GI safety of GCSB-5.Aim of studyThe primary goal was to determine the safety and efficacy of 24-week use of GCSB-5. The secondary goal was to compare the GI safety data of GCSB-5 with that of the previously reported Celecoxib Long-term Arthritis Safety Study (CLASS).MethodThis was a 24-week, multicenter, single-arm phase IV Study for the safety and efficacy of GCSB-5. A total of 761 patients were enrolled and 756 patients received at least one dose of GCSB-5. Among them, 629 patients (82.7%) completed the 24 week follow up. The primary goal was to determine the safety and efficacy of GCSB-5 for 24 weeks. The secondary goal was to compare the GI safety data of GCSB-5 with that of the previously reported Celecoxib Long-term Arthritis Safety Study (CLASS).ResultsThe incidence of GI disorders of GCSB-5 was 23.7%. The annual rate of perforation, ulcer obstruction, or bleeding (PUB) incidence was 0.0%. The drop-out rate due to GI disorders following GCSB-5 use was 4.8%. Compared to celecoxib data from CLASS, the incidence of GI disorders (23.7% vs. 31.4%, p

Purpose We tried to demonstrate whether the posterior condylar offset (PCO, the distance from the femoral diaphysis posterior cortex to the posterior condylar margin) and ratio (PCOR, dividing PCO by the maximum antero-posterior diameter of the distal femur) could be used as predictive factors for overhang of the implants or using gender implants in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Materials and Methods One hundred and one women who underwent TKA using NexGen® (LPS) implants, were analyzed prospectively. After distal femoral resection, the mediolateral (ML) width was measured at four points (anterior, distal anterior, distal posterior and posterior) and compared with the ML width of the implant. The aspect ratio (AR, ML/AP ratio) and anterior/distal posterior ML width (Ant/DP) were calculated. Preoperative radiographic PCO and PCOR were measured. Differences of PCO, PCOR, AR and Ant/DP according to the size were analyzed and correlations between PCO, PCOR and AR were also analyzed. The patients were classified into two groups according to the presence of overhang, and differences of each parameter were compared between the two groups. Results The size of the implant was positively correlated PCO, not significantly correlated with PCOR, and negatively correlated with AR and Ant/DP. PCO and PCOR and AR showed no correlation with each other. PCO and PCOR were not significantly different between the two groups. However, AR and Ant/DP were statistically low in the group with overhang. Conclusions Preoperative radiographic PCO or PCOR could not be used as a predictive factor for overhang of the implants or using gender implants in TKA.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate results after total knee arthroplasty using a medial pivot prosthesis with the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL)-retaining and PCL-sacrificing techniques. The PCL was retained in 67 knees and sacrificed in 70 knees. The mean Knee Society knee score increased from 59.6 before surgery to 91.5 at the last follow-up, and the mean function score increased from 53.6 to 85.4. The mean preoperative femorotibial angle was varus 4.1°, which corrected to valgus 5.8° after surgery. The increased knee and function score did not vary significantly between the cruciate-retaining and cruciate-sacrificing groups (P > .108), nor did the mean preoperative and postoperative femorotibial angle (P > .140). The clinical results of total knee arthroplasty with a medial pivot prosthesis were satisfactory, whether the PCL was retained or sacrificed.

Purpose: We wanted to evalulate the clinical results of pectoris major tendon transfer for a neglected winged scapula that was caused by paralysis of the serratus anterior due to injury to the long thoracic nerve. Materials and Methods: A patient had neglected winged scapula that followed an arthroscopic operation for multi-directional instability of the shoulder joint, which was caused by traumatic dislocation. The patient was treated with pectoralis major tendon transfer using the modified Eden-Lange procedure. The range of a motion was improved from forward flexion and external rotation to and respectively. Results and Conclusion: There were no complications or recurrence and the patient`s psychological satisfaction was also high. If the shoulder girdle muscles are intact, except for the serratus anterior, then pectoralis tendon transfer is a satisfactory method that can provide normal scapulo-thoracic motion.

Etanercept is a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor that has been used for the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis. Because of its immunosuppressive activity, opportunistic infections have been noted in treated patients, most notably caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Tuberculosis may present in an extrapulmonary or disseminated form. Since TNF-alpha inhibitors have been used in Korea, a few cases of TNF-alpha inhibitor associated tuberculosis have been described. However, tuberculous arthritis has not been previously reported. We describe a case of tuberculous arthritis in a 57-year-old woman with rheumatoid arthritis who was treated with etanercept.

Congenital undescended scapula is congenital structural abnormality which affects only one side usually. Scapula located higher than the usual and rotating deformity that inferior angle to medial side, superior angle to lateral side is common. This report presents one case of the surgical therapy of a sprengel deformity patient who passed an optimal operation period with age years old, and includes brief review of the literature. 7 years old boy whose chief complaint was the limitation of left scapular-thoracic movement and he had an omovertebral bone bridge and periscapular muscle atrophy. There was improvement of motion ranges and cosmetic problems after surgical treatment.

Purpose The purpose was to analyze the relationship between posterior tibial slope (PTS) and mucoid degeneration of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in patients with total knee arthroplasty. Materials and Methods Four hundred and twenty-four patients (24 males and 400 females; 636 knees) who received total knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis were included. Their mean age was 68.9 years (range, 48 to 88 years). The patients were classified into three groups according to the status of ACL; normal ACL group (group I), mucoid degeneration of ACL group (group II) and ruptured or absent ACL group (group III). Plain lateral radiographs were used to measure the PTS and the values were compared among groups. Results There were no significant differences with regard to gender, age and left-to-right side ratio among groups (p>0.05). The mean PTS was 9.9° (range, 0.6° to 20.1°) in group I (161 knees), 10.8° (range, 0.2° to 21.8°) in group II (342 knees) and 12.3° (range, 2° to 22.2°) in group III (133 knees), which showed significant differences (p

This study was aimed to evaluate the stability of conjugated linoleic acids (CLAs) by nano-encapsulation against in vitro ruminal biohydrogenation by microbial enzymatic conversion. CLAs (free fatty acid form of CLA [CLA-FFA], nano-encapsulated CLA-FFA, triglyceride form of CLA [CLA-TG], and nano-encapsulated CLA-TG) were used in the in vitro fermentation experiments. When Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens (B. fibrisolvens) was incubated with CLA-FFAs, the concentrations of cis-9, trans-11 CLA and vaccenic acid (VA) slightly was decreased and increased by nano-encapsulation, respectively. When B. fibrisolvens was incubated with CLA-TG, the concentrations of cis-9, trans-11 CLA and VA decreased, but these were increased when B. fibrisolvens was incubated with nano-encapsulated CLA-TG. The nano-encapsulation was more effective against the in vitro biohydrogenation activity of B.fibrisolvens incubated with CLA-FFA than with CLA-TG. In the in vitro ruminal incubation test, the total gas production and concentration of total volatile fatty acids incubated with nano-encapsulated CLA-FFA and CLA-TG were increased significantly after 24 h incubation (p

Background Despite the theoretical advantage of a knee design that can more reliably replicate the medial pivot (MP) of the natural knee, only a few clinical studies have compared the clinical results between the MP prosthesis and another design of prosthesis. We compared the midterm results of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) using an MP prosthesis vs a posterior-stabilized prosthesis via a matched-pair analysis; we included results related to patellofemoral joint symptoms. Methods The midterm clinical and radiographic results of 125 consecutive patients (150 knees) who underwent a TKA with the ADVANCE MP prosthesis were compared with those of a control group who had undergone a primary TKA with a posterior-stabilized prosthesis. Results Values of the Knee Society’s Knee Scoring System, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, and Kujala and Feller scoring systems, as well as the range of motion after TKA, did not significantly differ between the 2 groups. No differences in femorotibial angle and component position, including the patella component, were observed between the 2 groups. No significant differences in the change of patella tilt angle and the postoperative patellar translation were observed between the 2 groups. Conclusion Patients with the MP prosthesis experienced satisfactory pain relief and a functional recovery, providing results similar to those of the posterior-stabilized prosthesis, including the resolution of patellofemoral joint symptoms.

— Use of Massive Cuff Stitch in Arthroscopic Repair of Rotator Cuff Tears Sang-Hun Ko, M.D., Ph.D., Sung-Do Cho, M.D., Chang-Youl Gwak, M.D., Jin EO, M.D., Chang-Hyun Yoo, M.D.*, Seung-Wan Choe, M.D.** Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Internal Medicine Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine Purpose : To evaluate the integrity of repair & technical tip in use of Massive Cuff Stitch at arthroscopic repair ofrotator cuff tear. Materials and Methods : Twenthy-nine cases of arthroscopically repaired full thickness tear of rotator cuffs whichare medium sized were evaluated. Between December 2004 to September 2005 we have studied, the average age53(42~69) years old, mean follow-up was 15(12~21) months. We analyzed the results statistically by paired t-test.The integrity of repair were verified by follow up MRI which were checked 11 cases and ultrasound which werechecked 10 cases. Results : VAS of pain improved preoperative average 7.1 to postoperative 0.9, ADL improved 11.2 to 25.6 respec-tively, UCLA improved 13.7 to 32.9(all, P

Purpose: To evaluate the usefulness of arthroscopic decompression and miniopen repair that was related with large and massive sized full thickness rotator cuff tear and assess clinical result. Materials and Methods: Twenthy-nine cases of miniopen repaired full thickness tear of rotator cuffs that arthroscopically decompressed were studied. From October 1998 to December 2004 we have analysed 29 repairs of large and massive sized FTRCT, the average age 44 () years old, mean follow-up was 34 () months. We analyzed the results statistically by paired t-test. Results: Postoperative VAS of pain improved average 7.0 to 1.7, UCLA score improved 13.7 to 31.9, ADL improved 11.3 to 25.3 respectively (all, P

Purpose: The causes of twelve cases of the mid-shaft clavicle nonunion and the results of internal fixation with plate and bone graft were investigated. Materials and method: From August 1997 to March 2003, twelve cases of the mid-shaft clavicle nonunion were operated with internal fixation with plate and bone graft. The duration of follow-up was average 13 months. Results: The causes of the mid-shaft clavicle nonunion included severe associated injury, severe initial displacement of the fracture fragments and insecure fixation. All cases were operated with internal fixation with plate and bone graft. According to the factor for evaluations of results, using a rating scale of excellent (no apparent factors), good (one factor), fair (two factors), poor (more than three factors), the results showed 10 excellent, 1 good and 1 poor. Screw loosening was developed in only one case . Conclusion: The internal fixation with plate and bone graft of the mid-shaft clavicle nonunion after failed conservative treatment achieved excellent results and seemed to be the procedure of choice for mid-shaft clavicle nonunion.

TiO2 film has been used in many industrial components such as laser filters, protection mirrors, chemical sensors, and optical catalysts. Therefore, the thermal properties of TiO2 thin films are important in, e.g., reducing the thermal conductivity of ceramic coatings in gas turbines and increasing the laser damage threshold of antireflection coatings. The thermal conductivity of four kinds of TiO2 thin films, prepared by dc magnetron sputtering, was measured using the 3ω method in the temperature range from 80 K to room temperature. The results showed that the thermal conductivity of TiO2 thin films strongly depends on the thickness and the microstructure of the films. The films with smaller grain size and thinner thickness have smaller thermal conductivities.

Purpose: To evaluate the usefulness of arthroscopic repair that was related with full thickness rotator cuff tear and assess clinical result. Materials and Methods: Twenty-one cases of arthroscopically repaired full thickness tear of rotator cuffs were studied. Between October 1998 to July 2002 we have analysed 21 repairs of FTRCT the average age 54(42∼74) years old, mean follow-up was 24(12∼41) months We analyzed the results statistically by paired t-test. Results: Postoperative VAS of pain improved average 7.2 to 1.9, UCLA score improved 13.9 to 31.9, ADL improved 11.5 to 25.5 respectively(all, p

Purpose: Unstable Neer type II lateral end fracture of clavicle may be required operation. The purpose of this study is the effectiveness of the use of Hook plate in the management of unstable Neer type II fractures. We preliminary reported the results of Unstable Neer type II lateral end fracture of clavicle using by Hook plate. Material and Methods: From May 1998 to May 2002, we operated 6 cases unstable Neer type II lateral end fracture of clavicle with Hook plate by one surgeon. We checked radiologic evaluation and disappearance of pain per 1 week, and evaluated improvement of range of motion per 2 week. And we followed up at each interval 3 months,6 months, 12 months and after that per 6months interval, at that each time we checked stress radiogram of shoulder and functional evaluation. The shoulder function was evaluated using Modified Shoulder Rating Scale (MSRC) for Distal Clavicle Fracture and UCLA score. Average follow up was on 37.2 (12∼57) months. Results: All 6 patients were regained satisfactory function. Average MSRC for distal clavicle fracture was 17.3 (15∼20) and average UCLA score was 33.2 (31∼35) at last follow up. Conclusion: There are many advantage of the use of Hook plate on management of unstable Neer II distal clavicle fracture in spite of several disadvantage. There have not yet been reported in our country. So we obtained good to excellent clinical result in surgical treatment of 6 cases on type II displaced lateral end fracture of the clavicle. But we think that more cases will be review and longer follow up will be needed in the future.

To evaluate the relative efficacy and safety of extended-release tramadol HCl 75 mg/acetaminophen 650 mg (TA-ER) and immediate-release tramadol HCl 37.5 mg/acetaminophen 325 mg (TA-IR) for the treatment of moderate to severe acute pain following total knee replacement.This phase III, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study randomized 320 patients with moderate to severe pain (≥4 intensity on an 11 point numeric rating scale) following total knee replacement arthroplasty to receive oral TA-ER (every 12 hours) or TA-IR (every 6 hours) over a period of 48 hours. In the primary analysis, TA-ER was evaluated for efficacy non-inferior to that of TA-IR based on the sum of pain intensity difference (SPID) at 48 hours after the first dose of study drug (SPID48). Secondary endpoints included SPID at additional time points, total pain relief at all on-therapy time points (TOTPAR), sum of SPID and TOTPAR at all on-therapy time points (SPID + TOTPAR), use of rescue medication, subjective pain assessment (PGIC, Patient Global Impression of Change), and adverse events (AEs).Analysis of the primary efficacy endpoint (SPID48) could not establish the non-inferiority of TA-ER to TA-IR. However, a post hoc analysis with a re-defined non-inferiority margin did demonstrate the non-inferiority of TA-ER to TA-IR. No statistically significant difference in SPID at 6, 12, or 24 hours was observed between the TA-ER and TA-IR groups. Similarly, analysis of TOTPAR showed that there were no significant differences between groups at any on-therapy time point, and SPID + TOTPAR at 6 and 48 hours were similar among groups. There was no difference in the mean frequency or dosage of rescue medication required by both groups, and the majority of patients in both the TA-ER and TA-IR groups rated their pain improvement as 'much' or 'somewhat better'. The overall incidence of ≥1 AEs was similar among the TA-ER (88.8%) and TA-IR (89.5%) groups. The most commonly reported AEs by patients treated with TA-ER and TA-IR included nausea (49.7% vs 44.4%), vomiting (28.0% vs 24.2%), and decreased hemoglobin (23.6% vs 26.1%). This study is limited by the lack of placebo control, and the invalidity of the initial non-inferiority margin.This study demonstrated that the analgesic effect of TA-ER is non-inferior to TA-IR, and supports TA-ER as an effective and safe treatment for moderate to severe acute pain post total knee replacement.Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT01814878.

Previous studies support the important role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and syndecan-4 in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA). Both VEGF and syndecan-4 are expressed by chondrocytes and both are involved in the regulation of matrix metalloproteinase-3, resulting in the activation of aggrecanase II (ADAMTS-5), which is essential in the pathogenesis of OA. However, the relationship between VEGF and syndecan-4 has not been established. As a pilot study, we assayed the expression of VEGF and syndecan-4 in cartilage samples and cultured chondrocytes from osteoarthritic knee joints and analysed the relationship between these two factors. Specimens were collected from 21 female patients (29 knees) who underwent total knee replacement due to severe medial OA of the knee (Kellgren–Lawrence grade 4). Articular cartilage samples, obtained from bone and cartilage excised during surgery, were analysed and used for chondrocyte culture. We found that the levels of expression of VEGF and syndecan-4 mRNA did not differ significantly between medial femoral cartilage with severe degenerative changes and lateral femoral cartilage that appeared grossly normal (p = 0.443 and 0.622, respectively). Likewise, the levels of expression of VEGF and syndecan-4 mRNA were similar in cultured chondrocytes from medial and lateral femoral cartilage. The levels of expression of VEGF and syndecan-4 mRNAs were significantly and positively correlated in cartilage explant (r = 0.601, p = 0.003) but not in cultured chondrocytes. These results suggest that there is a close relationship between VEGF and syndecan-4 in the cartilage of patients with OA. Further studies are needed to determine the exact pathway by which these two factors interact in the pathogenesis of OA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:1319–24.

Background: Although several studies have compared a conventional transtibial technique with an anteromedial (AM) portal technique for single-bundle (SB) anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, no study to date has investigated whether the modified transtibial technique results in the femoral tunnel being in a similar anatomic position and produces similar clinical outcomes with those of the AM portal technique. Purpose: To compare the clinical outcomes and femoral tunnel position of SB ACL reconstruction using a modified transtibial technique (creating a femoral tunnel with varus and internal rotation of the tibia as well as modification of the tibial tunnel orientation) with those of SB ACL reconstruction using an AM portal technique. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. Methods: A total of 40 patients (40 knees) who underwent arthroscopic SB ACL reconstruction were included in this study. Patients were randomized using a computer-generated sequence into 2 groups: 20 patients by the modified transtibial technique (group 1) and 20 patients by the AM portal technique (group 2). Clinical evaluations included the 2000 International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective knee score, Lysholm knee score, Tegner activity scale, Lachman test, pivot-shift test, 2000 IKDC knee examination, and KT-1000 arthrometer measurement. Three-dimensional computed tomography scans were analyzed according to the quadrant method, and the obliquity of the femoral tunnels in the coronal and sagittal planes and the size of the tunnel orifice were measured. Results: All clinical parameters improved significantly after SB ACL reconstruction, with no between-group differences. The mean distance of the femoral tunnel center location from the posterior condylar surface (0.8% difference; P = .167) and from the Blumensaat line (2.1% difference; P = .067) was similar in groups 1 and 2. The mean coronal obliquity of the femoral tunnel was significantly lower in group 1 than in group 2 (42.5° ± 6.1° vs 49.3° ± 7.2°, respectively; P = .001), but the mean sagittal obliquity was similar between the 2 groups (41.9° ± 6.1° vs 43.3° ± 5.4°, respectively; P = .303). The mean area of the tunnel orifice was significantly greater in group 1 than in group 2 (11.6 ± 1.4 × 9.2 ± 1.6 mm vs 10.3 ± 1.1 × 9.1 ± 1.4 mm, respectively; P = .013). Conclusion: The modified transtibial technique for SB ACL reconstruction showed good clinical results and anatomic placement of the femoral tunnel, similar with those of the AM portal technique.

We fabricated and characterized the material with Mn (10 at.%: atomic percent) doped In3Sb1Te2 (MIST) using co-sputtering and synchrotron radiation, respectively. The MIST thin film showed phase-changes at 97 and 320°C, with sheet resistances of ~10 kΩsq (amorphous), ~0.2 kΩsq (first phase-change) and ~10 Ωsq (second phase-change). MIST did not exhibit any chemical separation or increased structural instability during either phase-change, as determined with high-resolution x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Chemical state changes were only depended for In without concomitant changes of Sb and Te. Apparently, doped Mn atoms can be induced with movement of only In atoms.

Yoon Seok Youm,1 Sung Do Cho,1 Chang Ho Hwang21Department of Orthopedic Surgery, 2Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Ulsan, Republic of KoreaBackground: The purpose of this study was to compare electrophysiologically guided and traditional nerve stimulator analgesia femoral nerve block after total knee arthroplasty.Methods: Patients scheduled for unilateral total knee arthroplasty were randomized to electrophysiologically guided or traditional nerve stimulator analgesia by pre-emptive single injection femoral nerve block with corresponding assistance. We assessed pain scores using a visual analog scale (VAS, 0 = no pain, 100 = the worst pain) and the volumes of morphine consumed at 4, 24, 48, and 72 hours after total knee arthroplasty.Results: Of the 60 patients enrolled, eight withdrew from the study. The remaining 52 patients were randomized to the electrophysiologically guided group (n = 27) or traditional nerve stimulator analgesia (n = 25) group. Four hours after total knee arthroplasty, VAS scores were significantly lower in the electrophysiologically guided group than in the traditional nerve stimulator group at rest (4.8 ± 1.4 versus 5.9 ± 0.8, P < 0.01) and while moving (6.2 ± 1.1 versus 6.9 ± 0.9, P < 0.01). The total volumes of morphine injected at 24, 48, and 72 hours were significantly decreased in the electrophysiologically guided group (P < 0.05 each). Variable × time interaction of VAS was significant in the electrophysiologically guided group (P < 0.05), with each VAS score at 24, 48, and 72 hours being significantly lower than the baseline score (P < 0.05). VAS scores at every time point were significantly lower in the electrophysiologically group guided than in the traditional nerve stimulator group (P < 0.05).Conclusion: Electrophysiologically guided single injection femoral nerve block may provide better postoperative analgesia and a greater reduction in the demand for pain killers than femoral nerve block using traditional nerve stimulator analgesia.Keywords: femoral nerve, nerve block, electrophysiologic concepts, arthroplasty, knee, ropivacaine

®® medical pivot knee (MPK) (403 knees: male 51, female 352) implants were analyzed prospectively. After distal femoral resection, the mediolateral width (ML) was measured at four points (anterior [Ant], distal anterior [DA], distal posterior [DP], and posterior [Post]) and compared with the ML width of the implant respectively. The aspect ratio (AR=ML/anteroposterior width) and width ratio (WR=Ant ML/DP ML) were calculated. Differences in AR, WR, and fitness between male and female were analyzed. Results: The AR of males was larger than that of females for both LPS and MPK; however, no differences in the WR were observed between males and females. The WR in MPK was larger than that in LPS. For both LPS and MPK, females showed greater anatomical fitness than males, and males had relatively greater incidence of undersize than females. For MPK, there were relatively more cases of overhang in Ant and DA cut surface. These results were consistent with the fact that the WR of implant in MPK was larger than that in LPS. Conclusion: Korean males tend to have larger AR and less anatomical fitness of the femoral component than females because of undersize. No difference in WR was observed between Korean males and females. However, the cut surfaces as well as femoral implant of MPK had larger WR than those of LPS. MPK has more overhang on the anterior cut surface than LPS, due to a wider Ant flange (larger WR) of the implant.

Unsteady ambulation shortly after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) may cause falling. Postural sway may predict the risk of falling. This prospective single-blinded observational study therefore evaluated the effects of TKA on single-limb standing balance (SLSB) and factors related to change in SLSB. Patients with varus deformity and medial compartment degeneration were evaluated between September and December 2010. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index and Kellgren/Lawrence scale were assessed, as were varus angle, number of painful knees, isometric peak torque of the quadriceps femoris, balance index of double limbs, and postural sway of single limbs. Twelve patients were enrolled and 11 were analysed. The mean ± SD postural sway of single limbs (i.e., SLSB) was reduced significantly after TKA, from 30.3 ± 20.8 cm to 18.5 ± 9.3 cm (p = 0.02). Amelioration was in proportion to pre-operative postural sway (β = 0.92). SLSB in patients with varus knees with osteoarthritis was improved significantly 11 days after TKA. Poorer pre-operative SLSB was associated with better post-operative SLSB. TKA may be useful for the immediate reduction of falling in patients with osteoarthritis. Therapeutic study, case series, Level IV.

The purpose was to analyze the association between posterior tibial slope (PTS) and mucoid degeneration of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).From October 1999 to May 2010, 84 arthroscopies were performed in 82 patients (18 men and 64 women) with mucoid degeneration of the ACL. The mean patient age was 53 years (range, 25 to 75 years). In addition to this patient group (group I), the study included a control group without mucoid degeneration of the ACL that was randomly matched for age, sex, body mass index, left or right side, and associated lesions (group II). For each group, the diagnosis was made by use of magnetic resonance imaging and arthroscopy, and a plain lateral radiograph was used to measure the PTS.The mean PTS was 13.5° ± 2.6° (range, 8.2° to 19.5°) in group I and 9.4° ± 2.5° (range, 4.8° to 15.5°) in group II. The mean PTS in group I was significantly greater than that in group II (P.001). For group I, the mean PTS of the involved knee was significantly greater than that of the uninvolved contralateral knee (P = .044). There were no differences according to age, sex, left or right side, body weight, and body mass index (P.05).Mucoid degeneration of the ACL was found to be associated with an increased PTS. The patients with mucoid degeneration of the ACL had a greater mean PTS than matched control patients (13.5° v. 9.4°, P.001).Level III, diagnostic study of nonconsecutive patients without consistently applied gold standard.

This study was performed to characterize the CLA production ability of a bacterial strain, Bifidobacterium breve LMC 520, which can actively convert linoleic acid (LA) to cis-9,trans-11 conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a major isomer derived from microbial enzymatic conversion. The culture conditions were optimized to improve CLA production under the aerobic conditions. B. breve LMC 520 was tested with different amounts of LA in varied culture conditions, such as air, additives, and pH. A maximal level of CLA production (up to 90% of substrate) was obtained after 24 h of incubation in culture medium containing 1 mM LA at pH 5.5 and under anaerobic conditions. There was no decline in the CLA level with prolonged incubation until 48 h. When the effect of pre-incubation with LA on CLA production was tested, there was no significant difference between the CLA-producing activity of pre-incubated and untreated bacteria at the third passage but there was a significant reduction in CLA production by the pre-incubated cells after the fourth passage. These results demonstrate that the CLA-producing activity of B. breve LMC 520 could be maximized by numerous environmental factors. The data also indicate its potential for increasing CLA accumulation in dairy products when B. breve LMC 520 is used as a functional starter culture.