Pseudotumours are a rare complication of hip resurfacing. They are thought to be a response to metal debris which may be caused by edge loading due to poor orientation of the acetabular component. Our aim was to determine the optimal acetabular orientation to minimise the risk of pseudotumour formation. We matched 31 hip resurfacings revised for pseudotumour formation with 58 controls who had a satisfactory outcome from this procedure. The radiographic inclination and anteversion angles of the acetabular component were measured on anteroposterior radiographs of the pelvis using Einzel-Bild-Roentgen-Analyse software. The mean inclination angle (47°, 10° to 81°) and anteversion angle (14°, 4° to 34°) of the pseudotumour cases were the same (p = 0.8, p = 0.2) as the controls, 46° (29° to 60°) and 16° (4° to 30°) respectively, but the variation was greater. Assuming an accuracy of implantation of ± 10° about a target position, the optimal radiographic position was found to be approximately 45° of inclination and 20° of anteversion. The incidence of pseudotumours inside the zone was four times lower (p = 0.007) than outside the zone. In order to minimise the risk of pseudotumour formation we recommend that surgeons implant the acetabular component at an inclination of 45° (± 10) and anteversion of 20° (± 10) on post-operative radiographs. Because of differences between the radiographic and the operative angles, this may be best achieved by aiming for an inclination of 40° and an anteversion of 25°

Aims. This pilot study aimed to evaluate prospectively the use of inlet radiographs of the hip as an alternative method of the assessment of reduction after the surgical treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). Patients and Methods. The children in this study underwent surgery between January 2013 and January 2015. All had inlet radiographs and CT scans post-operatively. Data were analysed by determining inter-observer reliability and intra-observer reproducibility, using the kappa value (K). Differences were settled by discussion between the two observers until a consensus was reached. The sensitivity and specificity of the radiographic and CT results were compared. A total of 26 radiographs were obtained from 23 children, with a mean age of 2.38 years (one to five). Results. Similar high levels of intra- and inter-observer agreement were observed (K = 0.834, 95% confidence interval (CI)). There was a high agreement between the radiographic and CT results (K = 0.834, 5% CI), with excellent sensitivity and a specificity of 95.5%. Conclusion. These results suggest that inlet radiographs may be a reliable method of assessing the reduction of the hip after the surgical treatment of DDH. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:697–701

Aims

The aim of this study was to assess arthritis of the basal joint of the thumb quantitatively using bone single-photon emission CT/CT (SPECT/CT) and evaluate its relationship with patients’ pain and function.

Aims

The aims of this study were to compare clinically relevant measurements of hip dysplasia on radiographs taken in the supine and standing position, and to compare Hip2Norm software and Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS)-derived digital radiological measurements.

Objective. In the present study, we aimed to assess whether gelatin/β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) composite porous scaffolds could be used as a local controlled release system for vancomycin. We also investigated the efficiency of the scaffolds in eliminating infections and repairing osteomyelitis defects in rabbits. Methods. The gelatin scaffolds containing differing amounts of of β-TCP (0%, 10%, 30% and 50%) were prepared for controlled release of vancomycin and were labelled G-TCP0, G-TCP1, G-TCP3 and G-TCP5, respectively. The Kirby-Bauer method was used to examine the release profile. Chronic osteomyelitis models of rabbits were established. After thorough debridement, the osteomyelitis defects were implanted with the scaffolds. Radiographs and histological examinations were carried out to investigate the efficiency of eliminating infections and repairing bone defects. Results. The prepared gelatin/β-TCP scaffolds exhibited a homogeneously interconnected 3D porous structure. The G-TCP0 scaffold exhibited the longest duration of vancomycin release with a release duration of eight weeks. With the increase of β-TCP contents, the release duration of the β-TCP-containing composite scaffolds was decreased. The complete release of vancomycin from the G-TCP5 scaffold was achieved within three weeks. In the treatment of osteomyelitis defects in rabbits, the G-TCP3 scaffold showed the most efficacious performance in eliminating infections and repairing bone defects. Conclusions. The composite scaffolds could achieve local therapeutic drug levels over an extended duration. The G-TCP3 scaffold possessed the optimal porosity, interconnection and controlled release performance. Therefore, this scaffold could potentially be used in the treatment of chronic osteomyelitis defects. Cite this article: J. Zhou, X. G. Zhou, J. W. Wang, H. Zhou, J. Dong. Treatment of osteomyelitis defects by a vancomycin-loaded gelatin/β-tricalcium phosphate composite scaffold. Bone Joint Res 2018;7:46–57. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.71.BJR-2017-0129.R2

Aims

The incidence of atypical femoral fractures (AFFs) continues to increase. However, there are currently few long-term studies on the complications of AFFs and factors affecting them. Therefore, we attempted to investigate the outcomes, complications, and risk factors for complication through mid-term follow-up of more than three years.

Aims. The aims of this study were to examine the rate at which the positioning of the acetabular component, leg length discrepancy and femoral offset are outside an acceptable range in total hip arthroplasties (THAs) which either do or do not involve the use of intra-operative digital imaging. Patients and Methods. A retrospective case-control study was undertaken with 50 patients before and 50 patients after the integration of an intra-operative digital imaging system in THA. The demographics of the two groups were comparable for body mass index, age, laterality and the indication for surgery. The digital imaging group had more men than the group without. Surgical data and radiographic parameters, including the inclination and anteversion of the acetabular component, leg length discrepancy, and the difference in femoral offset compared with the contralateral hip were collected and compared, as well as the incidence of altering the position of a component based on the intra-operative image. Results. Digital imaging took a mean of five minutes (2.3 to 14.6) to perform. Intra-operative changes with the use of digital imaging were made for 43 patients (86%), most commonly to adjust leg length and femoral offset. There was a decrease in the incidence of outliers when using intra-operative imaging compared with not using it in regard to leg length discrepancy (20% versus 52%, p = 0.001) and femoral offset inequality (18% versus 44%, p = 0.004). There was also a difference in the incidence of outliers in acetabular inclination (0% versus 7%, p = 0.023) and version (0% versus 4%, p = 0.114) compared with historical results of a high-volume surgeon at the same centre. Conclusion. The use of intra-operative digital imaging in THA improves the accuracy of the positioning of the components at THA without adding a substantial amount of time to the operation. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100B(1 Supple A):36–43

Aims. Positive ulnar variance is an established risk factor for idiopathic ulnar impaction syndrome (UIS). However, not all patients with positive ulnar variance develop symptomatic UIS and other factors, including the morphology of the lunate, may be involved. The aim of this study was to clarify the relationship between lunate morphology and idiopathic UIS. Patients and Methods. A cohort of 95 patients with idiopathic UIS (UIS group) was compared with 95 asymptomatic controls with positive ulnar variance. The shape of the lunate was measured using the capitate-triquetrum distance (CTD), ulnar coverage ratio (UCR), radiolunate distance and radiolunate angle. The association of radiographic parameters and lunate types with the development of UIS was investigated in univariable and multivariable analyses. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to estimate a cutoff for any statistically significant variables. Results. The proportion of type II lunates, which have a medial hamate facet, were significantly higher in the UIS group than in the control group in the univariable analysis (p = 0.001). CTD (odds ratio (OR) 1.52; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.11 to 2.06; p = 0.008) and UCR (OR 44.78; 95% CI 5.35 to 374.90; p = 0.002) showed a positive association with UIS in the multivariable analysis. Estimated cutoff values were 2.5 mm for the CTD (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.65) and 0.4 for the UCR (AUC = 0.64). Conclusion. The proportion of type II lunates was greater in the UIS group than in the control group. A large UCR, which represents the broad base of the lunate, was positively associated with the development of idiopathic UIS. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:1508–14

Aims

One-stage revision hip arthroplasty for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) has several advantages; however, resection of the proximal femur might be necessary to achieve higher success rates. We investigated the risk factors for resection and re-revisions, and assessed complications and subsequent re-revisions.

This animal study compares different methods of performing an osteotomy, including using an Erbium-doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet laser, histologically, radiologically and biomechanically. A total of 24 New Zealand rabbits were divided into four groups (Group I: multihole-drilling; Group II: Gigli saw; Group III: electrical saw blade and Group IV: laser). A proximal transverse diaphyseal osteotomy was performed on the right tibias of the rabbits after the application of a circular external fixator. The rabbits were killed six weeks after the procedure, the operated tibias were resected and radiographs taken. . The specimens were tested biomechanically using three-point bending forces, and four tibias from each group were examined histologically. Outcome parameters were the biomechanical stability of the tibias as assessed by the failure to load and radiographic and histological examination of the osteotomy site. . The osteotomies healed in all specimens both radiographically and histologically. The differences in the mean radiographic (p = 0.568) and histological (p = 0.71) scores, and in the mean failure loads (p = 0.180) were not statistically significant between the groups. . Different methods of performing an osteotomy give similar quality of union. The laser osteotomy, which is not widely used in orthopaedics is an alternative to the current methods. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:1628–33

Aims

The study objective was to prospectively assess clinical outcomes for a pilot cohort of tibial shaft fractures treated with a new tibial nailing system that produces controlled axial interfragmentary micromotion. The hypothesis was that axial micromotion enhances fracture healing compared to static interlocking.

Aims. Dislocation rates are reportedly lower in patients requiring proximal femoral hemiarthroplasty than for patients undergoing hip arthroplasty for neoplasia. Without acetabular replacement, pain due to acetabular wear necessitating revision surgery has been described. We aimed to determine whether wear of the native acetabulum following hemiarthroplasty necessitates revision surgery with secondary replacement of the acetabulum after proximal femoral replacement (PFR) for tumour reconstruction. Patients and Methods. We reviewed 100 consecutive PFRs performed between January 2003 and January 2013 without acetabular resurfacing. The procedure was undertaken in 74 patients with metastases, for a primary bone tumour in 20 and for myeloma in six. There were 48 male and 52 female patients, with a mean age of 61.4 years (19 to 85) and median follow-up of two years (interquartile range (IQR) 0.5 to 3.7 years). In total, 52 patients presented with a pathological fracture and six presented with failed fixation of a previously instrumented pathological fracture. Results. All patients underwent reconstruction with either a unipolar (n = 64) or bipolar (n = 36) articulation. There were no dislocations and no acetabular resurfacings. Articular wear was graded using the criteria of Baker et al from 0 to 3, where by 0 is normal; grade 1 represents a narrowing of articular cartilage and no bone erosion; grade 2 represents acetabular bone erosion and early migration; and grade 3 represents protrusio acetabuli. Of the 49 patients with radiological follow-up greater than one year, six demonstrated grade 1 acetabular wear and two demonstrated grade 2 acetabular wear. The remainder demonstrated no radiographic evidence of wear. Median medial migration was 0.3 mm (IQR -0.2 to 0.7) and superior migration was 0.3 mm (IQR -0.2 to 0.6). No relationship between unipolar versus bipolar articulations and wear was evident. Conclusion. Hemiarthroplasty PFRs for tumour reconstruction eliminate joint instability and, in the short to medium term, do not lead to native acetabular wear necessitating later acetabular resurfacing. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100B:101–8

Aims

In contrast to operations performed for other fractures, there is a high incidence rate of surgical site infection (SSI) post-open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) done for tibial plateau fractures (TPFs). This study investigates the effect of induced membrane technique combined with internal fixation for managing SSI in TPF patients who underwent ORIF.

Aims. We conducted a study to determine whether radiological parameters correlate with patient reported functional outcome, health-related quality of life and physical measures of function in patients with a fracture of the distal radius. Patients and Methods. The post-operative palmar tilt and ulnar variance at six weeks and 12 months were correlated with the Patient Rated Wrist Evaluation, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand, and EuroQol scores, grip strength, pinch strength and range of movement at three, six and 12 months for 50 patients (mean age 57 years; 26 to 85) having surgical fixation, with either percutaneous pinning or reconstruction with a volar plate, for a fracture of the distal radius. Results. Radiological parameters were found to correlate poorly with the patient reported outcomes (r = 0.00 to 0.47) and physical measures of function (r = 0.01 to 0.51) at all intervals. Conclusion. This study raises concerns about the use of radiological parameters to determine management, and to act as a surrogates for successful treatment, in patients with a fracture of the distal radius. Restoration of ‘normal’ radiographic parameters may not be necessary to achieve a satisfactory functional outcome for the patient. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:376–82

Aims. The aim of this study was to assess the reproducibility and validity of cross table radiographs for measuring the anteversion of the acetabular component after total hip arthroplasty (THA) and to compare it with measurements using CT scans. Patients and Methods. A total of 29 patients who underwent THA between June 2010 and January 2016 were included. There were 17 men and 12 women. Their mean age was 43 years (26 to 65). Seven patients underwent a bilateral procedure. Thus, 36 THAs were included in the study. Lateral radiographs and CT scans were obtained post-operatively and radiographs repeated three weeks later. The anteversion of the acetabular component was measured using the method described by Woo and Morrey and the ischiolateral method described by Pulos et al and these were compared with the results obtained from CT scans. Results. The mean anteversion was 18.35° (3° to 38°) using Woo and Morrey’s method, 51.45° (30° to 85°) using the ischiolateral method and 21.22° (2° to 48°) using CT scans. The Pearson correlation coefficient was 0.754 for Woo and Morrey’s method and 0.925 for the ischiolateral method. There was a linear correlation between the measurements using the ischiolateral method and those using CT scans. We derived a simple linear equation between the value of the CT scan and that of ischiolateral method to deduce the CT scan value from that of ischiolateral method and vice versa. . Conclusion. The anteversion of the acetabular component measured using both plain radiographic methods was consistently valid with good interobserver reproducibility, but the ischiolateral method which is independent of pelvic tilt was more accurate. As CT is costly, associated with a high dose of radiation and not readily available, the ischiolateral method can be used for assessing the anteversion of the acetabular component. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:1006–11

Aims. The aim of this study was to analyze the results of reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) in patients with type 1 sequelae of a fracture of the proximal humerus in association with rotator cuff deficiency or severe stiffness of the shoulder. Patients and Methods. A total of 38 patients were included: 28 women and ten men. Their mean age at the time of arthroplasty was 73 years (54 to 91). Before the RSA, 18 patients had been treated with open reduction and internal fixation following a fracture. A total of 22 patients had a rotator cuff tear and 11 had severe stiffness of the shoulder with < 0° of external rotation. The mean follow-up was 4.3 years (1.5 to 10). The Constant score and the range of movement of the shoulder were recorded preoperatively and at final follow-up. Preoperatively, radiographs in two planes were performed, as well as CT or arthro-CT scans; radiographs were also performed at final follow-up. Results. The mean Constant score improved from 25 points (5 to 47) preoperatively to 57 points (15 to 81) postoperatively. The mean forward elevation of the shoulder increased from 73° (10° to 130°) preoperatively to 117° (15° to 170°) postoperatively. Previous surgery did not influence the outcome. Patients with rotator cuff tears had lower Constant scores than patients without (p = 0.037). Those with preoperative stiffness of the shoulder had lower postoperative external rotation compared with patients without stiffness (p = 0.046). There was no radiographic evidence of loosening. Three complications occurred, leading to revision surgery in two patients. In all, 17 patients rated their result as very good (45%), another 17 as good (45%), two as satisfactory (5%), and two as unsatisfactory (5%). Discussion. RSA is an effective form of treatment for patients with type 1 sequelae of a fracture of the proximal humerus associated with rotator cuff deficiency or stiffness of the shoulder, with high rates of satisfaction. Rotator cuff tears and stiffness of the shoulder had an adverse effect on the clinical outcome. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:318–23

Aims. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes of the Birmingham Interlocking Pelvic Osteotomy (BIPO). Patients and Methods. In this prospective study, we report the mid- to long-term clinical outcomes of the first 100 consecutive patients (116 hips; 88 in women, 28 in men) undergoing BIPO, reflecting the surgeon’s learning curve. Failure was defined as conversion to hip arthroplasty. The mean age at operation was 31 years (7 to 57). Three patients (three hips) were lost to follow-up. Results. Survivorship was 76% at ten years and 57% at a mean of 17 years. Younger patients (< 20 years) had the best survivorship (20 hips at risk; 90% at 17 years; 95% confidence interval 65 to 97). Post-operative complications occurred after 12 operations (10.4%) over the duration of the study. Increasing patient age and hip arthritis grade were primary determinants of surgical failure. Conclusion. BIPO provides good to excellent survivorship in appropriately selected patients, with a relatively low rate of complications. Our results are comparable with other established methods of periacetabular osteotomy (PAO), such as the Bernese PAO, even during the surgeon’s initial learning curve. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:724–31

Aims

Accumulated evidence indicates that local cell origins may ingrain differences in the phenotypic activity of human osteoblasts. We hypothesized that these differences may also exist in osteoblasts harvested from the same bone type at periarticular sites, including those adjacent to the fixation sites for total joint implant components.

Aims

To investigate whether idiopathic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is related to impaired osteoblast activities.