Aims. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systematic autoimmune disorder, characterized by synovial inflammation, bone and cartilage destruction, and disease involvement in multiple organs. Although numerous drugs are employed in RA treatment, some respond little and suffer from severe side effects. This study aimed to screen the candidate therapeutic targets and promising drugs in a novel method. Methods. We developed a module-based and cumulatively scoring approach that is a deeper-layer application of weighted gene co-expression network (WGCNA) and connectivity map (CMap) based on the high-throughput datasets. Results. Four noteworthy RA-related modules were identified, revealing the immune- and infection-related biological processes and pathways involved in RA. HLA-DMA, HLA-DMB, HLA-DPA1, HLA-DPB1, HLA-DQB1, HLA-DRA, HLA-DRB1, BLNK, BTK, CD3D, CD4, IL2RG, INPP5D, LCK, PTPRC, RAC2, SYK, and VAV1 were recognized as the key hub genes with high connectivity in gene regulation networks and gene pathway networks. Moreover, the long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the RA-related modules, such as FAM30A and NEAT1, were identified as the indispensable interactors with the hub genes. Finally, candidate drugs were screened by developing a cumulatively scoring approach based on the selected modules. Niclosamide and the other compounds of T-type calcium channel blocker, IKK inhibitor, and PKC activator, HIF activator, and proteasome inhibitor, which harbour the similar gene signature with niclosamide, were promising drugs with high specificity and broad coverage for the RA-related modules. Conclusion. This study provides not only the promising targets and drugs for RA but also a novel methodological insight into the target and drug screening. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2020;9(8):501–514

The August 2024 Knee Roundup³⁶⁰ looks at: Calcification’s role in knee osteoarthritis: implications for surgical decision-making; Lower complication rates and shorter lengths of hospital stay with technology-assisted total knee arthroplasty; Revision surgery: the hidden burden on surgeons; Are preoperative weight loss interventions worthwhile?; Total knee arthroplasty with or without prior bariatric surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis; Aspirin triumphs in knee arthroplasty: a decade of evidence; Efficacy of DAIR in unicompartmental knee arthroplasty: a glimpse from Oxford.

We reviewed nine patients at a mean period of 11 years (6 to 16) after curettage and cementing of a giant-cell tumour around the knee to determine if there were any long-term adverse effects on the cartilage. Plain radiography, MRI, delayed gadolinium-enhanced MRI of the cartilage and measurement of the serum level of cartilage oligomeric matrix protein were carried out. The functional outcome was evaluated using the Lysholm knee score. Each patient was physically active and had returned to their previous occupation. Most participated in recreational sports or exercise. The mean Lysholm knee score was 92 (83 to 100). Only one patient was found to have cartilage damage adjacent to the cement. This patient had a history of intra-articular fracture and local recurrence, leading to degenerative changes. Interpretation of the data obtained from delayed gadolinium-enhanced MRI of the cartilage was difficult, with variation in the T1 values which did not correlate with the clinical or radiological findings. We did not find it helpful in the early diagnosis of degeneration of cartilage. We also found no obvious correlation between the serum cartilage oligomeric matrix protein level and the radiological and MR findings, function, time after surgery and the age of the patient. In summary, we found no evidence that the long-term presence of cement close to the knee joint was associated with the development of degenerative osteoarthritis

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To assess the alterations in cell-specific DNA methylation associated with chondroitin sulphate response using peripheral blood collected from Kashin-Beck disease (KBD) patients before initiation of chondroitin sulphate treatment.

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This study aimed to evaluate if total knee arthroplasty (TKA) femoral components aligned in either mechanical alignment (MA) or kinematic alignment (KA) are more biomimetic concerning trochlear sulcus orientation and restoration of trochlear height.

Addressing bone defects is a complex medical challenge that involves dealing with various skeletal conditions, including fractures, osteoporosis (OP), bone tumours, and bone infection defects. Despite the availability of multiple conventional treatments for these skeletal conditions, numerous limitations and unresolved issues persist. As a solution, advancements in biomedical materials have recently resulted in novel therapeutic concepts. As an emerging biomaterial for bone defect treatment, graphene oxide (GO) in particular has gained substantial attention from researchers due to its potential applications and prospects. In other words, GO scaffolds have demonstrated remarkable potential for bone defect treatment. Furthermore, GO-loaded biomaterials can promote osteoblast adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation while stimulating bone matrix deposition and formation. Given their favourable biocompatibility and osteoinductive capabilities, these materials offer a novel therapeutic avenue for bone tissue regeneration and repair. This comprehensive review systematically outlines GO scaffolds’ diverse roles and potential applications in bone defect treatment.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2024;13(12):725–740.

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Arthroscopic microfracture is a conventional form of treatment for patients with osteochondritis of the talus, involving an area of < 1.5 cm². However, some patients have persistent pain and limitation of movement in the early postoperative period. No studies have investigated the combined treatment of microfracture and shortwave treatment in these patients. The aim of this prospective single-centre, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was to compare the outcome in patients treated with arthroscopic microfracture combined with radial extracorporeal shockwave therapy (rESWT) and arthroscopic microfracture alone, in patients with ostechondritis of the talus.

The October 2024 Oncology Roundup³⁶⁰ looks at: Composite reconstruction: is it the answer for pelvic resections?; Can the cartilaginous thickness determine the risk of malignancy in pelvic cartilaginous tumours, and how accurate is the preoperative biopsy of these tumours?; Incidence and survival outcomes of patients with high-grade appendicular bone sarcoma and isolated regional lymph node metastasis; Improved metastatic-free survival after systematic re-excision following complete macroscopic unplanned excision of limb or trunk soft-tissue sarcoma; UK guidelines for the management of soft-tissue sarcomas; Current management of desmoid tumours: a review.

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The aims of this study were to: 1) report on a cohort of skeletally mature patients with native hip and knee septic arthritis over a 14-year period; 2) to determine the rate of joint failure in patients who had experienced an episode of hip or knee septic arthritis; and 3) to assess the outcome following septic arthritis relative to the infecting organism, whether those patients infected by Staphylococcus aureus would be more likely to have adverse outcomes than those infected by other organisms.

The October 2023 Shoulder & Elbow Roundup³⁶⁰ looks at: Arthroscopic capsular shift surgery in patients with atraumatic shoulder joint instability: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial; Superior capsular reconstruction partially restores native glenohumeral loads in a dynamic model; Gene expression in glenoid articular cartilage varies in acute instability, chronic instability, and osteoarthritis; Intra-articular injection versus interscalene brachial plexus block for acute-phase postoperative pain management after arthroscopic shoulder surgery; Level of pain catastrophizing rehab in subacromial impingement: secondary analyses from a pragmatic randomized controlled trial (the SExSI Trial); Anterosuperior versus deltopectoral approach for primary reverse total shoulder arthroplasty: a study of 3,902 cases from the Dutch National Arthroplasty Registry with a minimum follow-up of five years; Assessment of progression and clinical relevance of stress-shielding around press-fit radial head arthroplasty: a comparative study of two implants; A number of modifiable and non-modifiable factors increase the risk for elbow medial ulnar collateral ligament injury in baseball players: a systematic review.

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This systematic review aimed to summarize the full range of complications reported following ankle arthroscopy and the frequency at which they occur.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2023;12(10):654–656.

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The aim of this study was to report the pooled prevalence of post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) and examine whether the risk of developing PTOA after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury has decreased in recent decades.

Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) is a condition for which the aetiology remains unknown. It affects subchondral bone and secondarily its overlying cartilage and is mostly found in the knee. It can occur in adults, but is generally identified when growth remains, when it is referred to as juvenile OCD. As the condition progresses, the affected subchondral bone separates from adjacent healthy bone, and can lead to demarcation and separation of its associated articular cartilage. Any symptoms which arise relate to the stage of the disease. Early disease without separation of the lesion results in pain. Separation of the lesion leads to mechanical symptoms and swelling and, in advanced cases, the formation of loose bodies. Early identification of OCD is essential as untreated OCD can lead to the premature degeneration of the joint, whereas appropriate treatment can halt the disease process and lead to healing. Establishing the stability of the lesion is a key part of providing the correct treatment. Stable lesions, particularly in juvenile patients, have greater propensity to heal with non-surgical treatment, whereas unstable or displaced lesions usually require surgical management. This article discusses the aetiology, clinical presentation and prognosis of OCD in the knee. It presents an algorithm for treatment, which aims to promote healing of native hyaline cartilage and to ensure joint congruity. Take home message: Although there is no clear consensus as to the best treatment of OCD, every attempt should be made to retain the osteochondral fragment when possible as, with a careful surgical technique, there is potential for healing even in chronic lesions. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:723–9

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The Chopart joint complex is a joint between the midfoot and hindfoot. The static and dynamic support system of the joint is critical for maintaining the medial longitudinal arch of the foot. Any dysfunction leads to progressive collapsing flatfoot deformity (PCFD). Often, the tibialis posterior is the primary cause; however, contrary views have also been expressed. The present investigation intends to explore the comprehensive anatomy of the support system of the Chopart joint complex to gain insight into the cause of PCFD.

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To clarify the mid-term results of transposition osteotomy of the acetabulum (TOA), a type of spherical periacetabular osteotomy, combined with structural allograft bone grafting for severe hip dysplasia.

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Mechanical stimulation is a key factor in the development and healing of tendon-bone insertion. Treadmill training is an important rehabilitation treatment. This study aims to investigate the benefits of treadmill training initiated on postoperative day 7 for tendon-bone insertion healing.

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Abduction bracing is commonly used to treat developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) following closed reduction and spica casting, with little evidence to support or refute this practice. The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of abduction bracing after closed reduction in improving acetabular index (AI) and reducing secondary surgery for residual hip dysplasia.

The October 2023 Children’s orthopaedics Roundup³⁶⁰ looks at: Outcomes of open reduction in children with developmental hip dislocation: a multicentre experience over a decade; A torn discoid lateral meniscus impacts lower-limb alignment regardless of age; Who benefits from allowing the physis to grow in slipped capital femoral epiphysis?; Consensus guidelines on the management of musculoskeletal infection affecting children in the UK; Diagnosis of developmental dysplasia of the hip by ultrasound imaging using deep learning; Outcomes at a mean of 13 years after proximal humeral fracture during adolescence; Clubfeet treated according to Ponseti at four years; Controlled ankle movement boot provides improved outcomes with lower complications than short leg walking cast.