Aims. Little is known about the effect of haemorrhagic shock and resuscitation on fracture healing. This study used a rabbit model with a femoral osteotomy and fixation to examine this relationship. Materials and Methods. A total of 18 male New Zealand white rabbits underwent femoral osteotomy with intramedullary fixation with ‘shock’ (n = 9) and control (n = 9) groups. Shock was induced in the study group by removal of 35% of the total blood volume 45 minutes before resuscitation with blood and crystalloid. Fracture healing was monitored for eight weeks using serum markers of healing and radiographs. Results. Four animals were excluded due to postoperative complications. The serum concentration of osteocalcin was significantly elevated in the shock group postoperatively (p < 0.0001). There were otherwise no differences with regard to serum markers of bone healing. The callus index was consistently increased in the shock group on anteroposterior (p = 0.0069) and lateral (p = 0.0165) radiographs from three weeks postoperatively. The control group showed an earlier decrease of callus index. Radiographic scores were significantly greater in the control group (p = 0.0025). Conclusion. In a rabbit femoral osteotomy model with intramedullary fixation, haemorrhagic shock and resuscitation produced larger callus but with evidence of delayed remodelling. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:1234–40

Biofilm-associated infections in wounds or on implants are difficult to treat. Eradication of the bacteria is nearly always impossible, despite the use of specific antibiotics. The bactericidal effects of high-energy extracorporeal shock waves on Staphylococcus aureus have been reported, but the effect of low-energy shock waves on staphylococci and staphylococcal biofilms has not been investigated. In this study, biofilms grown on stainless steel washers were examined by electron microscopy. We tested ten experimental groups with Staph. aureus-coated washers and eight groups with Staph. epidermidis. The biofilm-cultured washers were exposed to low-energy shock waves at 0.16 mJ/mm. 2. for 500 impulses. The washers were then treated with cefuroxime, rifampicin and fosfomycin, both alone and in combination. All tests were carried out in triplicate. Viable cells were counted to determine the bactericidal effect. The control groups of Staph. aureus and Staph. epidermidis revealed a cell count of 6 × 10. 8. colony-forming units/ml. Complete eradication was achieved using the combination of antibiotic therapy (single antibiotic in Staph. aureus, a combination in Staph. epidermidis) and shock wave application (p < 0.01). We conclude that shock waves combined with antibiotics could be tested in an in vitro model of infection

Aims. Proliferation, migration, and differentiation of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) remnant and surrounding cells are fundamental processes for ACL reconstruction; however, the interaction between ACL remnant and surrounding cells is unclear. We hypothesized that ACL remnant cells preserve the capability to regulate the surrounding cells’ activity, collagen gene expression, and tenogenic differentiation. Moreover, extracorporeal shock wave (ESW) would not only promote activity of ACL remnant cells, but also enhance their paracrine regulation of surrounding cells. Methods. Cell viability, proliferation, migration, and expression levels of Collagen-I (COL-I) A1, transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were compared between ACL remnant cells untreated and treated with ESW (0.15 mJ/mm. 2. , 1,000 impulses, 4 Hz). To evaluate the subsequent effects on the surrounding cells, bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs)’ viability, proliferation, migration, and levels of Type I Collagen, Type III Collagen, and tenogenic gene (Scx, TNC) expression were investigated using coculture system. Results. ESW-treated ACL remnant cells presented higher cell viability, proliferation, migration, and increased expression of COL-I A1, TGF-β, and VEGF. BMSC proliferation and migration rate significantly increased after coculture with ACL remnant cells with and without ESW stimulation compared to the BMSCs alone group. Furthermore, ESW significantly enhanced ACL remnant cells’ capability to upregulate the collagen gene expression and tenogenic differentiation of BMSCs, without affecting cell viability, TGF-β, and VEGF expression. Conclusion. ACL remnant cells modulated activity and differentiation of surrounding cells. The results indicated that ESW enhanced ACL remnant cells viability, proliferation, migration, and expression of collagen, TGF-β, VEGF, and paracrine regulation of BMSC proliferation, migration, collagen expression, and tenogenesis. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2020;9(8):457–467

The effects of extracorporeal shock waves (ESWT) on tendon healing were assessed by observing histological and biomechanical parameters in a rat model of injury to the tendo Achillis. The injury was created by inserting an 18-G needle through tendo Achillis in 48 adult Wistar albino rats. The animals were divided into three groups. The first group received radiation only after the operation. The second received no shock waves and the third had 500 15 KV shocks on the second post-operative day. All the rats were killed on the 21st day after surgery. Histopathological analysis showed an increase in the number of capillaries and less formation of adhesions in the study group compared with the control group (p = 0.03). A significantly greater force was required to rupture the tendon in the study group (p = 0.028). Our findings suggest a basis for clinical trials using ESWT

We aimed to determine whether extracorporeal shock waves of varying intensity would damage the intact tendo Achillis and paratenon in a rabbit model. We used 42 female New Zealand white rabbits randomly divided into four groups as follows: group a received 1000 shock-wave impulses of an energy flux density of 0.08 mJ/mm. 2. , group b 1000 impulses of 0.28 mJ/mm. 2. , group c 1000 impulses of 0.60 mJ/mm. 2. , and group d was a control group. Sonographic and histological evaluation showed no changes in group a, and transient swelling of the tendon with a minor inflammatory reaction in group b. Group c had formation of paratendinous fluid with a significant increase in the anteroposterior diameter of the tendon. In this group there were marked histological changes with increased eosin staining, fibrinoid necrosis, fibrosis in the paratenon and infiltration of inflammatory cells. We conclude that there are dose-dependent changes in the tendon and paratenon after extracorporeal shock-wave therapy and that energy flux densities of over 0.28 mJ/mm. 2. should not be used clinically in the treatment of tendon disorders

Aims

This study aimed to analyze the correlation between transverse process (TP) fractures of the fourth (L4) and fifth (L5) lumbar vertebrae and biomechanical and haemodynamic stability in patients with a pelvic ring injury, since previous data are inconsistent.

We describe the impact of a targeted performance improvement programme and the associated performance improvement interventions, on mortality rates, error rates and process of care for haemodynamically unstable patients with pelvic fractures. Clinical care and performance improvement data for 185 adult patients with exsanguinating pelvic trauma presenting to a United Kingdom Major Trauma Centre between January 2007 and January 2011 were analysed with univariate and multivariate regression and compared with National data. In total 62 patients (34%) died from their injuries and opportunities for improved care were identified in one third of deaths.

Three major interventions were introduced during the study period in response to the findings. These were a massive haemorrhage protocol, a decision-making algorithm and employment of specialist pelvic orthopaedic surgeons. Interventions which improved performance were associated with an annual reduction in mortality (odds ratio 0.64 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.44 to 0.93), p = 0.02), a reduction in error rates (p = 0.024) and significant improvements in the targeted processes of care. Exsanguinating patients with pelvic trauma are complex to manage and are associated with high mortality rates; implementation of a targeted performance improvement programme achieved sustained improvements in mortality, error rates and trauma care in this group of severely injured patients.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:1090–7.

Extracorporeal shock-wave (ESW) treatment hasbeen shown to be effective in promoting the healing of fractures. We aimed to determine whether ESW could enhance the growth of bone-marrow osteoprogenitor cells. We applied ESW to the left femur of rats 10 mm above the knee at 0.16 mJ/mm² in a range of between 250 and 2000 impulses. Bone-marrow cells were harvested after ESW for one day and subjected to assessment of colony-forming unit (CFU) granulocytes, monocytes, erythocytes, megakaryocytes (CFU-Mix), CFU-stromal cells (CFU-S) and CFU-osteoprogenitors (CFU-O).

We found that the mean value for the CFU-O colonies after treatment with 500 impulses of ESW was 168.2 CFU-O/well (sem 11.3) compared with 88.2 CFU-O/well (sem 7.2) in the control group. By contrast, ESW treatment did not affect haematopoiesis as shown by the CFU-Mix (p = 0.557). Treatment with 250 and 500 impulses promoted CFU-O, but not CFU-Mix formations whereas treatment with more than 750 impulses had an inhibiting effect. Treatment with 500 impulses also enhanced the activity of bone alkaline phosphatase in the subculture of CFU-O (p< 0.01), indicating a selective promotion of growth of osteoprogenitor cells. Similarly, formation of bone nodules in the long-term culture of bone-marrow osteoprogenitor cells was also significantly enhanced by ESW treatment with 500 impulses. The mean production of TGF-β1 was 610 pg/ml (sem 84.6) in culture supernatants from ESW-treated rats compared with 283 pg/ml (sem 36.8) in the control group.

Our findings suggest that optimal treatment with ESW could enhance rat bone-marrow stromal growth and differentiation towards osteoprogenitors presumably by induction of TGF-β1.

Aims. Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) demonstrates the most feared complication after total joint replacement (TJR). The current work analyzes the demographic, comorbidity, and complication profiles of all patients who had in-hospital treatment due to PJI. Furthermore, it aims to evaluate the in-hospital mortality of patients with PJI and analyze possible risk factors in terms of secondary diagnosis, diagnostic procedures, and complications. Methods. In a retrospective, cross-sectional study design, we gathered all patients with PJI (International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-10 code: T84.5) and resulting in-hospital treatment in Germany between 1 January 2019 and 31 December 2022. Data were provided by the Institute for the Hospital Remuneration System in Germany. Demographic data, in-hospital deaths, need for intensive care therapy, secondary diagnosis, complications, and use of diagnostic instruments were assessed. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for in-hospital mortality were calculated. Results. A total of 52,286 patients were included, of whom 1,804 (3.5%) died. Hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and obesity, the most frequent comorbidities, were not associated with higher in-hospital mortality. Cardiac diseases as atrial fibrillation, cardiac pacemaker, or three-vessel coronary heart disease showed the highest risk for in-hospital mortality. Postoperative anaemia occurred in two-thirds of patients and showed an increased in-hospital mortality (OR 1.72; p < 0.001). Severe complications, such as organ failure, systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), or septic shock syndrome showed by far the highest association with in-hospital mortality (OR 39.20; 95% CI 33.07 to 46.46; p < 0.001). Conclusion. These findings highlight the menace coming from PJI. It can culminate in multi-organ failure, SIRS, or septic shock syndrome, along with very high rates of in-hospital mortality, thereby highlighting the vulnerability of these patients. Particular attention should be paid to patients with cardiac comorbidities such as atrial fibrillation or three-vessel coronary heart disease. Risk factors should be optimized preoperatively, anticoagulant therapy stopped and restarted on time, and sufficient patient blood management should be emphasized. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(4):367–373

Aims. The involvement of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) osteogenic differentiation during osteoporosis (OP) development has attracted much attention. In this study, we aimed to disclose how LINC01089 functions in human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSC) osteogenic differentiation, and to study the mechanism by which LINC01089 regulates MSC osteogenesis. Methods. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blotting were performed to analyze LINC01089, miR-1287-5p, and heat shock protein family A (HSP70) member 4 (HSPA4) expression. The osteogenic differentiation of MSCs was assessed through alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, alizarin red S (ARS) staining, and by measuring the levels of osteogenic gene marker expressions using commercial kits and RT-qPCR analysis. Cell proliferative capacity was evaluated via the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. The binding of miR-1287-5p with LINC01089 and HSPA4 was verified by performing dual-luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) experiments. Results. LINC01089 expression was reinforced in serum samples of OP patients, but it gradually diminished while hMSCs underwent osteogenic differentiation. LINC01089 knockdown facilitated hMSC osteogenic differentiation. This was substantiated by: the increase in ALP activity; ALP, runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), osteocalcin (OCN), and osteopontin (OPN) messenger RNA (mRNA) levels; and level of ARS staining. Meanwhile, LINC01089 upregulation resulted in the opposite effects. LINC01089 targeted miR-1287-5p, and the LINC01089 knockdown-induced hMSC osteogenic differentiation was repressed by miR-1287-5p depletion. HSPA4 is a downstream function molecule of the LINC01089/miR-1287-5p pathway; miR-1287-5p negatively modulated HSPA4 levels and attenuated its functional effects. Conclusion. LINC01089 negatively regulated hMSC osteogenic differentiation, at least in part, via governing miR-1287-5p/HSPA4 signalling. These findings provide new insights into hMSC osteogenesis and bone metabolism. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2024;13(12):779–789

Aims. Here we used a mature seven-day biofilm model of Staphylococcus aureus, exposed to antibiotics up to an additional seven days, to establish the effectiveness of either mechanical cleaning or antibiotics or non-contact induction heating, and which combinations could eradicate S. aureus in mature biofilms. Methods. Mature biofilms of S. aureus (ATCC 29213) were grown on titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V) coupons for seven days and were subjected to the following treatments or their combinations: antibiotics, mechanical cleaning, or heat shock by induction heating of 60°C for one minute. Experiments were repeated at least five times. Results. In the untreated biofilm, growth up to 1.8×10. 11. colony-forming units (CFU)/cm. 2. was observed. Treatment with ciprofloxacin, flucloxacillin, vancomycin, cefuroxime, and amoxicillin all with rifampicin gave 6.0 log, 6.1 log, 1.4 log, 4.8 log, and 3.6 log reduction in CFU/cm. 2. , respectively. Mechanical cleaning alone resulted in 4.9 log reduction and induction heating in 7.3 log reduction. There was an additional effect of ciprofloxacin, flucloxacillin, and induction heating when used in combinations. There was no additional effect for mechanical cleaning. No bacterial growth could be detected after induction heating followed by seven days of ciprofloxacin with rifampicin. Conclusion. Mechanical cleaning, antibiotics, and non-contact induction heating reduced the bacterial load of mature S. aureus biofilms with approximately 5 log or more as a single treatment. The effect of mechanical cleaning on mature S. aureus biofilms was limited when used in combination with antibiotics and/or induction heating. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2022;11(9):629–638

Aims. In recent conflicts, most injuries to the limbs are due to blasts resulting in a large number of lower limb amputations. These lead to heterotopic ossification (HO), phantom limb pain (PLP), and functional deficit. The mechanism of blast loading produces a combined fracture and amputation. Therefore, to study these conditions, in vivo models that replicate this combined effect are required. The aim of this study is to develop a preclinical model of blast-induced lower limb amputation. Methods. Cadaveric Sprague-Dawley rats’ left hindlimbs were exposed to blast waves of 7 to 13 bar burst pressures and 7.76 ms to 12.68 ms positive duration using a shock tube. Radiographs and dissection were used to identify the injuries. Results. Higher burst pressures of 13 and 12 bar caused multiple fractures at the hip, and the right and left limbs. Lowering the pressure to 10 bar eliminated hip fractures; however, the remaining fractures were not isolated to the left limb. Further reducing the pressure to 9 bar resulted in the desired isolated fracture of the left tibia with a dramatic reduction in the fractures to other sites. Conclusion. In this paper, a rodent blast injury model has been developed in the hindlimb of cadaveric rats that combines the blast and fracture in one insult, necessitating amputation. Experimental setup with 9 bar burst pressure and 9.13 ms positive duration created a fracture at the tibia with total reduction in non-targeted fractures, rendering 9 bar burst pressure suitable for translation to a survivable model to investigate blast injury-associated diseases. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2021;10(3):166–173

Aims. The aim of this study was to explore parents and young people’s experience of having a medial epicondyle fracture, and their thoughts about the uncertainty regarding the optimal treatment. Methods. Families were identified after being invited to participate in a randomized controlled trial of surgery or no surgery for displaced medial epicondyle fractures of the humerus in children. A purposeful sample of 25 parents (22 females) and five young people (three females, mean age 11 years (7 to 14)) from 15 UK hospitals were interviewed a mean of 39 days (14 to 78) from injury. Qualitative interviews were informed by phenomenology and themes identified to convey participants’ experience. Results. The results identify parents’ desire to do the best for their child expressed through two themes: 1) ‘uncertainty’ (being uncertain about the best treatment option); and 2) ‘facilitating recovery’ (sharing the experience). Parents and young people were shocked when confronted with uncertainty about treatment and they felt responsible for the decision. They searched for further information, drew on their own experience, and struggled to weigh up risks of the treatments. Discussion with surgeons provided crucial support for decision-making, and young people were involved to a varying degree. In facilitating recovery, parents balanced increasing activity with protecting their child, but lacked knowledge about pain management, and how to improve strength and function of the arm. They hoped for a return to normal, including competitive sports. Conclusion. Surgeons are aware of the impact of injury on children and their parents; however, they may be less aware of the turmoil created by treatment uncertainty. Confident surgeons who appreciate and contextualize the importance of pre-existing experience and beliefs are best placed to help the family develop confidence to embrace uncertainty, particularly regarding participation in clinical trials. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(6):359–364

Aims. Induction heating is a noninvasive, nonantibiotic treatment modality that can potentially be used to cause thermal damage to the bacterial biofilm on the metal implant surface. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of induction heating on killing Staphylococcus epidermidis from biofilm and to determine the possible synergistic effect of induction heating and antibiotics. Methods. S. epidermidis biofilms were grown on titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V) coupons for 24 hours (young biofilm) and seven days (mature biofilm). These coupons with biofilm were heated to temperatures of 50°C, 55°C, 60°C, 65°C, 70°C, 80°C, and 90°C for 3.5 minutes and subsequently exposed to vancomycin and rifampicin at clinically relevant concentrations. Results. For the young biofilm, total eradication was observed at 65°C or higher for 3.5 minutes followed by 24 hours of vancomycin 10 mg/l and rifampicin 1 mg/l. For the mature biofilm, total eradication was observed at 60°C for 3.5 minutes followed by 24 hours of vancomycin 10 mg/l and rifampicin 1 mg/l. Total eradication was also observed at 60°C for 3.5 minutes followed by 24 hours of vancomycin 1 mg/l and rifampicin 1 mg/l followed by another thermal shock of 60°C for 3.5 minutes (two thermal shocks). Conclusion. Induction heating of Ti6Al4V coupons is effective in reducing bacterial load in vitro for S. epidermidis biofilms. Induction heating and antibiotics have a synergistic effect resulting in total eradication of the biofilm at 60°C or higher for clinically relevant concentrations of vancomycin and rifampicin. Cite this article:Bone Joint Res. 2020;9(4):192–199

We undertook a study of the anti-tumour effects of hyperthermia, delivered via magnetite cationic liposomes (MCLs), on local tumours and lung metastases in a mouse model of osteosarcoma. MCLs were injected into subcutaneous osteosarcomas (LM8) and subjected to an alternating magnetic field which induced a heating effect in MCLs. A control group of mice with tumours received MCLs but were not exposed to an AMF. A further group of mice with tumours were exposed to an AMF but had not been treated with MCLs. The distribution of MCLs and local and lung metastases was evaluated histologically. The weight and volume of local tumours and the number of lung metastases were determined. Expression of heat shock protein 70 was evaluated immunohistologically. Hyperthermia using MCLs effectively heated the targeted tumour to 45°C. The mean weight of the local tumour was significantly suppressed in the hyperthermia group (p = 0.013). The mice subjected to hyperthermia had significantly fewer lung metastases than the control mice (p = 0.005). Heat shock protein 70 was expressed in tumours treated with hyperthermia, but was not found in those tumours not exposed to hyperthermia. The results demonstrate a significant effect of hyperthermia on local tumours and reduces their potential to metastasise to the lung

Aims. The glenohumeral joint is the most frequently dislocated articulation, but possibly due to the lower prevalence of posterior shoulder dislocations, approximately 50% to 79% of posterior glenohumeral dislocations are missed at initial presentation. The aim of this study was to systematically evaluate the most recent evidence involving the aetiology of posterior glenohumeral dislocations, as well as the diagnosis and treatment. Materials and Methods. A systematic search was conducted using PubMed (MEDLINE), Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane (January 1997 to September 2017), with references from articles also evaluated. Studies reporting patients who experienced an acute posterior glenohumeral joint subluxation and/or dislocation, as well as the aetiology of posterior glenohumeral dislocations, were included. Results. A total of 54 studies met the inclusion criteria. In total, 182 patients were included in this analysis; study sizes ranged from one to 66 patients, with a mean age of 44.2 years (. sd. 13.7). There was a higher proportion of male patients. In all, 216 shoulders were included with 148 unilateral injuries and 34 bilateral. Seizures were implicated in 38% of patients (n = 69), with falls, road traffic accidents, electric shock, and iatrogenic reasons also described. Time to diagnosis varied across studies from immediate up to a delay of 25 years. Multiple associated injuries are described. Conclusion. This review provides an up-to-date insight into the aetiology of posterior shoulder dislocations. Our results showed that seizures were most commonly implicated. Overall, reduction was achieved via open means in the majority of shoulders. We also found that delayed diagnosis is common

External fixation is widely used in orthopaedic and trauma surgery. Infections around pin or wire sites, which are usually localised, non-invasive, and are easily managed, are common. Occasionally, more serious invasive complications such as necrotising fasciitis (NF) and toxic shock syndrome (TSS) may occur. . We retrospectively reviewed all patients who underwent external fixation between 1997 and 2012 in our limb lengthening and reconstruction programme. A total of eight patients (seven female and one male) with a mean age of 20 years (5 to 45) in which pin/wire track infections became limb- or life-threatening were identified. Of these, four were due to TSS and four to NF. Their management is described. A satisfactory outcome was obtained with early diagnosis and aggressive medical and surgical treatment. . Clinicians caring for patients who have external fixation and in whom infection has developed should be aware of the possibility of these more serious complications. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are required in order to obtain a satisfactory outcome. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:1296–1300

Aims

To map literature on prognostic factors related to outcomes of revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA), to identify extensively studied factors and to guide future research into what domains need further exploration.

Systemic capillary leak syndrome, or the Clarkson syndrome, is an extremely rare condition in which increased capillary permeability results in a massive shift of fluid into the extravascular space. This is followed rapidly by hypotensive shock, haemoconcentration, and, potentially, substantial oedema of the limbs resulting in an acute compartment syndrome. It is important for orthopaedic surgeons to be aware of this syndrome as our medical colleagues, who initially care for these patients, are less familiar with the diagnosis and the need for emergency management of the associated compartment syndrome should it develop. There have been fewer than 100 cases of this entity reported. This case report is the first to describe the subsequent development of a compartment syndrome in all four limbs. Clinical vigilance and continuous monitoring of intracompartmental pressure is necessary in these patients in order to help reduce limb-threatening complications

Aims

The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence and patterns of neuropathic pain over one year in a cohort of patients with chronic post-surgical pain at three months following total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

The August 2013 Shoulder & Elbow Roundup. 360 . looks at: the sternoclavicular joint revisited; surgical simulators: more than just a fancy idea?; arthroscopic tennis elbow release; costly clavicle stabilisation; a better treatment for tennis elbow?; shock news: surgeons and radiologists agree; overhead athletes and SLAP repair; and total shoulder arthroplasty more effective than hemiarthroplasty

We reviewed the records of 1,156 patients treated for acute staphylococcal osteitis or septic arthritis over a 12-year period; 38 had been critically ill with evidence of multiple-organ involvement and 30 (79%) had features of the toxic shock syndrome. The mortality rate of these 38 patients was 13% and the long-term orthopaedic complication rate was 39%. The diagnosis and management of patients with osteitis or septic arthritis, disseminated staphylococcal disease, and the toxic shock syndrome is discussed

In a prospective randomised trial of calcifying tendinitis of the rotator cuff, we compared the efficacy of dual treatment sessions delivering 2500 extracorporeal shock waves at either high- or low-energy, via an electromagnetic generator under fluoroscopic guidance. Patients were eligible for the study if they had more than a three-month history of calcifying tendinitis of the rotator cuff, with calcification measuring 10 mm or more in maximum dimension. The primary outcome measure was the change in the Constant and Murley Score. A total of 80 patients were enrolled (40 in each group), and were re-evaluated at a mean of 110 (41 to 255) days after treatment when the increase in Constant and Murley score was significantly greater (t-test, p = 0.026) in the high-energy treatment group than in the low-energy group. The improvement from the baseline level was significant in the high-energy group, with a mean gain of 12.5 (−20.7 to 47.5) points (p < 0.0001). The improvement was not significant in the low-energy group. Total or subtotal resorption of the calcification occurred in six patients (15%) in the high-energy group and in two patients (5%) in the low-energy group. High-energy shock-wave therapy significantly improves symptoms in refractory calcifying tendinitis of the shoulder after three months of follow-up, but the calcific deposit remains unchanged in size in the majority of patients

1. A distinction must be made between the fat embolism syndrome, a clinical entity, and fat embolism demonstrated pathologically, which may be found after death following fracture with no prior evidence of the syndrome. 2. One hundred cases of the syndrome encountered over a period of four years have been studied in detail and the diagnostic criteria have been defined. These include one major feature, four minor features and fat macroglobulaemia. 3. Sixteen of the patients died–eight from severe pulmonary insufficiency of the syndrome, eight from other traumatic causes. 4. The prevention of shock is the best measure for prevention of the syndrome. The role of proteases in the production of shock and the place of protease inhibition in treatment of the syndrome are briefly discussed. 5. For the established case the aim of treatment is to ensure an adequate pressure of arterial oxygen

Aims

The aim of this study was to determine the fracture haematoma (fxH) proteome after multiple trauma using label-free proteomics, comparing two different fracture treatment strategies.

Traumatic uraemia is of particular significance to orthopaedic surgeons in so far as this complication is responsible for high mortality in cases of severe injury, crushing injury, traumatic shock, gun-shot wounds, incompatible blood transfusions, and the misuse of tourniquets. In this contribution the association between muscle injury and renal failure is reviewed. The syndrome of the "crush kidney," which at first was thought to be the result of deposition of myohaemoglobin in the renal tubules, is almost certainly due to the association of many factors, all of which lead to alteration of the renal circulation and renal ischaemia. Certainly the combination of ischaemia of the kidney with deposition of pigment and haemolysis of blood causes a high mortality in animals, and it is believed that this may account for the serious prognosis in human cases where there is both shock and haemolysis. Disturbance of water balance, allergic phenomena, and chemical nephrotoxic action are also discussed. The pathology is considered together with significant changes in the blood chemistry. A plea is made for early recognition of this clinical syndrome with its characteristic features. Important aspects of treatment are discussed. The dangers of excessive intravenous infusion are emphasised. Closer investigation and further research promise to throw light on the more accurate localisation of function in the nephron, to add to our knowledge of traumatic arterial spasm, and to explain many orthopaedic problems which hitherto appeared insoluble

We carried out a prospective, randomised controlled trial on two groups of 40 patients with painful calcific tendonitis and a mean age of 48.4 years (32.5 to 67.3). All were to undergo arthroscopic removal of the calcific deposit within six months after randomisation. The 40 patients in group I received ultrasound-guided needling followed by high-energy shock-wave therapy and the 40 in group II had shock-wave therapy alone. In both groups one treatment consisting of 2500 impulses of shock waves with an energy flux density of 0.36 mJ/mm. 2. was applied. The clinical and radiological outcome was assessed using the 100-point Constant shoulder scoring system and standardised radiographs. The mean follow-up was 4.1 months and no patient was lost to follow-up. Both groups had significant improvement in their Constant shoulder score. Radiographs showed disappearance of the calcific deposit in 60.0% of the shoulders in group I and in 32.5% of group II (p < 0.05). Significantly better clinical and radiological results were obtained in group I than in group II. Arthroscopic removal of the deposit was avoided in 32 patients of group I and in 22 of group II. No severe side-effects were recorded. Ultrasound-guided needling in combination with high-energy shock-wave therapy is more effective than shock-wave therapy alone in patients with symptomatic calcific tendonitis, giving significantly higher rates of elimination of the calcium deposits, better clinical results and reduction in the need for surgery

Aims

Wrist arthroscopy is a standard procedure in hand surgery for diagnosis and treatment of wrist injuries. Even though not generally recommended for similar procedures, general administration of perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis (PAP) is still widely used in wrist arthroscopy.

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Musculoskeletal infection is a devastating complication in both trauma and elective orthopaedic surgeries that can result in significant morbidity. Aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness and complications of local antibiotic impregnated dissolvable synthetic calcium sulphate beads (Stimulan Rapid Cure) in the hands of different surgeons from multiple centres in surgically managed bone and joint infections.

It has been suggested that extracorporeal shockwave therapy is a safe and effective treatment for pain relief from recalcitrant plantar fasciopathy (PF). However, the changes in gait and associated biomechanical parameters have not been well characterised. We recruited 12 female patients with recalcitrant PF who had a mean age of 59 years (50 to 70) and mean body mass index of 25 kg/m. 2. (22 to 30). The patients reported a mean duration of symptoms of 9.3 months (6 to 15). Shockwave therapy consisting of 1500 impulses (energy flux density 0.26 mJ/mm. 2. ) was applied for three sessions, each three weeks apart. A pain visual analogue scale (VAS) rating, plantar pressure assessment and motion analysis were carried out before and nine weeks after first shock wave therapy. It was demonstrated that patients increased their walking velocity and cadence as well indicating a decrease in pain after shockwave therapy. In the symptomatic foot, the peak contact pressure over the forefoot increased and the contact area over the digits decreased. The total foot impulse also decreased as did stance duration. The duration the centre of pressure remained in the hindfoot increased in the symptomatic foot after shockwave therapy. The differences in centre of pressure trajectory at baseline decreased at final follow-up. In conclusion, shockwave therapy not only decreased the pain VAS rating but also improved the gait parameters of the symptomatic foot in PF patients. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1088–93

Aims

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by a chronic inflammatory process involving multiple cytokine pathways, leading to articular cartilage degeneration. Intra-articular therapies using pharmaceutical or autologous anti-inflammatory factors offer potential non-surgical treatment options. Autologous protein solution (APS) is one such product that uses the patient’s blood to produce a concentrate of cells and anti-inflammatory cytokines. This study evaluated the effect of a specific APS intra-articular injection (nSTRIDE) on patient-reported outcome measures compared to saline in moderate knee OA.

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CRP is an acute-phase protein that is used as a biomarker to follow severity and progression in infectious and inflammatory diseases. Its pathophysiological mechanisms of action are still poorly defined. CRP in its pentameric form exhibits weak anti-inflammatory activity. The monomeric isoform (mCRP) exerts potent proinflammatory properties in chondrocytes, endothelial cells, and leucocytes. No data exist regarding mCRP effects in human intervertebral disc (IVD) cells. This work aimed to verify the pathophysiological relevance of mCRP in the aetiology and/or progression of IVD degeneration.

Aims

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanoparticles secreted by all cells, enriched in proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids related to cell-to-cell communication and vital components of cell-based therapies. Mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)-derived EVs have been studied as an alternative for osteoarthritis (OA) treatment. However, their clinical translation is hindered by industrial and regulatory challenges. In contrast, platelet-derived EVs might reach clinics faster since platelet concentrates, such as platelet lysates (PL), are already used in therapeutics. Hence, we aimed to test the therapeutic potential of PL-derived extracellular vesicles (pEVs) as a new treatment for OA, which is a degenerative joint disease of articular cartilage and does not have any curative or regenerative treatment, by comparing its effects to those of human umbilical cord MSC-derived EVs (cEVs) on an ex vivo OA-induced model using human cartilage explants.

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This study aimed to investigate the risk of postoperative complications in COVID-19-positive patients undergoing common orthopaedic procedures.

Aims

The aim of this study was to explore parents’ experience of their child’s recovery, and their thoughts about their decision to enrol their child in a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of surgery versus non-surgical casting for a displaced distal radius fracture.

Initial treatment of traumatic spinal cord injury remains as controversial in 2023 as it was in the early 19th century, when Sir Astley Cooper and Sir Charles Bell debated the merits or otherwise of surgery to relieve cord compression. There has been a lack of high-class evidence for early surgery, despite which expeditious intervention has become the surgical norm. This evidence deficit has been progressively addressed in the last decade and more modern statistical methods have been used to clarify some of the issues, which is demonstrated by the results of the SCI-POEM trial. However, there has never been a properly conducted trial of surgery versus active conservative care. As a result, it is still not known whether early surgery or active physiological management of the unstable injured spinal cord offers the better chance for recovery. Surgeons who care for patients with traumatic spinal cord injuries in the acute setting should be aware of the arguments on all sides of the debate, a summary of which this annotation presents.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(4):347–355.

The menisci of the knee have an important role in load-bearing and shock absorption within the joint. They may also function as secondary stabilisers, have a proprioceptive role, and aid the lubrication and nutrition of the articular cartilage. Complete or partial loss of a meniscus can have damaging effects on a knee, leading to serious long-term sequelae. This paper reviews the consequences of meniscectomy and summarises the body of evidence in the literature regarding those factors most relevant to long-term outcome

Aims

cAMP response element binding protein (CREB1) is involved in the progression of osteoarthritis (OA). However, available findings about the role of CREB1 in OA are inconsistent. 666-15 is a potent and selective CREB1 inhibitor, but its role in OA is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the precise role of CREB1 in OA, and whether 666-15 exerts an anti-OA effect.

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This study aimed to explore the role of small colony variants (SCVs) of Staphylococcus aureus in intraosseous invasion and colonization in patients with periprosthetic joint infection (PJI).

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Adenosine, lidocaine, and Mg²⁺ (ALM) therapy exerts differential immuno-inflammatory responses in males and females early after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR). Our aim was to investigate sex-specific effects of ALM therapy on joint tissue repair and recovery 28 days after surgery.

Aims

To test the hypothesis that reseeded anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)-derived cells have a better ability to survive and integrate into tendon extracellular matrix (ECM) and accelerate the ligamentization process, compared to adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs).

Aims

Staphylococcus aureus is a major cause of septic arthritis, and in vitro studies suggest α haemolysin (Hla) is responsible for chondrocyte death. We used an in vivo murine joint model to compare inoculation with wild type S. aureus 8325-4 with a Hla-deficient strain DU1090 on chondrocyte viability, tissue histology, and joint biomechanics. The aim was to compare the actions of S. aureus Hla alone with those of the animal’s immune response to infection.

Aims

Hand trauma accounts for one in five of emergency department attendances, with a UK incidence of over five million injuries/year and 250,000 operations/year. Surgical site infection (SSI) in hand trauma surgery leads to further interventions, poor outcomes, and prolonged recovery, but has been poorly researched. Antimicrobial sutures have been recognized by both the World Health Organization and the National Institute for Clinical Excellence as potentially effective for reducing SSI. They have never been studied in hand trauma surgery: a completely different patient group and clinical pathway to previous randomized clinical trials (RCTs) of these sutures. Antimicrobial sutures are expensive, and further research in hand trauma is warranted before they become standard of care. The aim of this protocol is to conduct a feasibility study of antimicrobial sutures in patients undergoing hand trauma surgery to establish acceptability, compliance, and retention for a definitive trial.

This review provides a concise outline of the advances made in the care of patients and to the quality of life after a traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) over the last century. Despite these improvements reversal of the neurological injury is not yet possible. Instead, current treatment is limited to providing symptomatic relief, avoiding secondary insults and preventing additional sequelae. However, with an ever-advancing technology and deeper understanding of the damaged spinal cord, this appears increasingly conceivable. A brief synopsis of the most prominent challenges facing both clinicians and research scientists in developing functional treatments for a progressively complex injury are presented. Moreover, the multiple mechanisms by which damage propagates many months after the original injury requires a multifaceted approach to ameliorate the human spinal cord. We discuss potential methods to protect the spinal cord from damage, and to manipulate the inherent inhibition of the spinal cord to regeneration and repair. Although acute and chronic SCI share common final pathways resulting in cell death and neurological deficits, the underlying putative mechanisms of chronic SCI and the treatments are not covered in this review.

Aims

Bone turnover markers (BTMs) follow distinct trends after fractures and limited evidence suggests differential levels in BTMs in patients with delayed healing. The effect of vitamin D, and other factors that influence BTMs and fracture healing, is important to elucidate the use of BTMs as surrogates of fracture healing. We sought to determine whether BTMs can be used as early markers of delayed fracture healing, and the effect of vitamin D on BTM response after fracture.

Aims

The current study aimed to compare robotic arm-assisted (RA-THA), computer-assisted (CA-THA), and manual (M-THA) total hip arthroplasty regarding in-hospital metrics including length of stay (LOS), discharge disposition, in-hospital complications, and cost of RA-THA versus M-THA and CA-THA versus M-THA, as well as trends in use and uptake over a ten-year period, and future projections of uptake and use of RA-THA and CA-THA.

A 59-year-old woman with calcific tendinitis in her right shoulder underwent extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy. Three years and four months later she presented with osteonecrosis of the head of the right humerus. It is known that shock waves in patients with urological disorders can damage blood vessels. A possible reason for the development of osteonecrosis in this patient may have been damage to the blood supply of the head of the humerus

Aims

Osteoarthritis (OA) is prevalent among the elderly and incurable. Intra-articular parathyroid hormone (PTH) ameliorated OA in papain-induced and anterior cruciate ligament transection-induced OA models; therefore, we hypothesized that PTH improved OA in a preclinical age-related OA model.

Aims

While interdisciplinary protocols and expedited surgical treatment improve the management of hip fractures in the elderly, the impact of such interventions on patients specifically undergoing arthroplasty for a femoral neck fracture is not clear. We sought to evaluate the efficacy of an interdisciplinary protocol for the management of patients with a femoral neck fracture who are treated with an arthroplasty.

1. An operation is described for ischio-femoral extra-articular arthrodesis of the hip joint by posterior open approach, based on the techniques of Trumble and Brittain. 2. The operation has the advantages of affording adequate exposure of the sciatic nerve trunk and permitting visual control of the alignment and penetration of the chisel and graft. 3. The operation has been performed successfully without serious shock or subsequent complications in eighteen cases, mostly of tuberculosis of the hip

The longitudinal arch between the heel and the forefoot and the transverse arch between the first and fifth metatarsal heads, absorb shock, energy and force. A device to measure plantar pressure was used in 66 normal healthy subjects and in 294 patients with various types of foot disorder. Only 22 (3%) of a total of 720 feet, had a dynamic metatarsal arch during the stance phase of walking, and all had known abnormality. Our findings show that there is no distal transverse metatarsal arch during the stance phase. This is important for the classification and description of disorders of the foot

1. Three new cases of neonatal sciatic palsy are reported in twins. They received identical treatment after birth; in the case of the first two for identical difficulties occurring after delivery. In twins there is a greater liability to neonatal shock and so a greater incidence of umbilical injections. 2. The clinical evidence and the necropsy findings in Case 3 support the hypothesis that intra-arterial thrombosis is caused by the injection of an analeptic into the umbilical artery. 3. The clinical picture is described, with a discussion on the pathology, treatment and the reason for recovery in some cases

1. A lateral intermuscular approach to the hip joint is described for replacement of the head of the femur by a prosthesis. 2. Advantages claimed for it are that it is attended by little or no shock, because the operation is rapid and relatively bloodless; that adequate exposure can be gained without dividing muscle or tendon; and that muscle function is unimpaired and so walking can be allowed early. The exposure is easily extended if unexpected difficulty is encountered. 3. Prosthetic replacement of the femoral head through this incision is advocated as a primary measure for elderly or unfit patients with fractured femoral neck

Aims

Tourniquets have potential adverse effects including postoperative thigh pain, likely caused by their ischaemic and possible compressive effects. The aims of this preliminary study were to determine if it is possible to directly measure intramuscular pH in human subjects over time, and to measure the intramuscular pH changes resulting from tourniquet ischaemia in patients undergoing knee arthroscopy.

Aims

The aim of this study was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of α defensin (AD) lateral flow assay (LFA) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) tests for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) in comparison to conventional synovial white blood cell (WBC) count and polymorphonuclear neutrophil percentage (PMN%) analysis.

Elevated levels of circulating cobalt ions have been linked with a wide range of systemic complications including neurological, endocrine, and cardiovascular symptoms. Case reports of patients with elevated blood cobalt ions have described significant cardiovascular complications including cardiomyopathy. However, correlation between the actual level of circulating cobalt and extent of cardiovascular injury has not previously been performed. This review examines evidence from the literature for a link between elevated blood cobalt levels secondary to metal-on-metal (MoM) hip arthroplasties and cardiomyopathy. Correlation between low, moderate, and high blood cobalt with cardiovascular complications has been considered. Elevated blood cobalt at levels over 250 µg/l have been shown to be a risk factor for developing systemic complications and published case reports document cardiomyopathy, cardiac transplantation, and death in patients with severely elevated blood cobalt ions. However, it is not clear that there is a hard cut-off value and cardiac dysfunction may occur at lower levels. Clinical and laboratory research has found conflicting evidence of cobalt-induced cardiomyopathy in patients with MoM hips. Further work needs to be done to clarify the link between severely elevated blood cobalt ions and cardiomyopathy.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2021;10(6):340–347.

We undertook a prospective, randomised study to compare the analgesic effect of injection of steroid and of extracorporeal shock-wave therapy (ESWT) for the treatment of tennis elbow. Group 1 received a single injection of 20 mg of triamcinolone with lignocaine while group 2 received 2000 shock waves in three sessions at weekly intervals. After six weeks there was a significant difference between the groups with the mean pain score for the injection group falling from 66 to 21 compared with a decrease from 61 to 35 in the shock-wave group (p = 0.05). After three months, 84% of patients in group 1 were considered to have had successful treatment compared with 60% in group 2. In the medium term local injection of steroid is more successful and 100 times less expensive than ESWT in the treatment of tennis elbow

We report a controlled, prospective study to investigate the effect of treatment by low-energy extracorporeal shock waves on pain in tennis elbow. We assigned at random 100 patients who had had symptoms for more than 12 months to two groups to receive low-energy shock-wave therapy. Group I received a total of 3000 impulses of 0.08 mJ/mm. 2. and group II, the control group, 30 impulses. The patients were reviewed after 3, 6 and 24 weeks. There was significant alleviation of pain and improvement of function after treatment in group I in which there was a good or excellent outcome in 48% and an acceptable result in 42% at the final review, compared with 6% and 24%, respectively, in group II

We report a prospective study of the effects of extracorporeal shock-wave therapy in 195 patients with chronic calcifying tendinitis. In part A 80 patients with chronic symptoms were randomly assigned to a control and three subgroups which had different treatment by low-energy and high-energy shock waves. In part B 115 patients had either one or two high-energy sessions. We recorded subjective, functional and radiological findings at six months after treatment. The results showed energy-dependent success, with relief of pain ranging from 5% in our control group up to 58% after two high-energy sessions. The Constant scores and the radiological disintegration of calcification were also dose-dependent. Shockwave therapy should be considered for chronic pain due to calcific tendinitis which is resistant to conservative treatment

A biomechanical study has been carried out on 20 cadaveric knees to investigate their load-absorbing mechanism. The impact load was applied using a weight falling onto the transected proximal femur and the force transmitted through the knee was measured at the transected distal tibia using a load transducer. The peak force transmitted increased as, sequentially, meniscus, articular cartilage and subchondral bone were damaged or removed. The most striking result was found in an implanted knee replacement where the transmitted force reached 180% of that in the intact knee. The results show that the joint has an impact-absorbing property in each segment and that in the osteoarthritic knee there is less absorption of shock than in the normal knee. The high impact force in an implanted knee suggests that microfractures of the cancellous bone might be expected and may produce loosening

Aims

Complex fractures of the femur and tibia with associated severe soft tissue injury are often devastating for the individual. The aim of this study was to describe the two-year patient-reported outcomes of patients in a civilian population who sustained a complex fracture of the femur or tibia with a Mangled Extremity Severity Score (MESS) of ≥ 7, whereby the score ranges from 2 (lowest severity) to 11 (highest severity).

1. The strength of the pelvic arch depends on the integrity of the anterior interpubic ligament, whose strength has been demonstrated by dissections. Once that ligament is divided the sacro-iliac ligaments offer little resistance to opening out of the pelvis. 2. The structure of the pelvis and hips is compared to an arcade formed by a central and two lateral arches. The weight of the trunk is transmitted to the lower limbs through this arcade. 3. Fractures of the pelvis are classified according to the mechanism of production. The case for anatomical reposition and internal fixation is stated, and case histories are given to illustrate the disabilities due to persistent deformity. 4. Reduction can be achieved as late as two or three weeks after injury. However, if early operation for visceral injury is necessary, there is a strong case for combining this with open reduction and fixation. In some cases the patient's general condition may preclude such procedures, but more usually the additional manipulations cause little additional operative shock and are fully justified by the subsequent increased comfort of the patient and the greater ease of nursing

Aims

Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by persistent destruction of articular cartilage. It has been found that microRNAs (miRNAs) are closely related to the occurrence and development of OA. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the mechanism of miR-486 in the development and progression of OA.

Aims

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a complex musculoskeletal disease that occurs mostly in children. This study aimed to investigate the molecular changes in the hip joint capsule of patients with DDH.

1. Seventy-five patients sustained fractures of the pelvis with associated soft-tissue complications. Twenty died, and of these, thirteen died within forty-eight hours of admission to hospital. 2. The initial resuscitation and clinical assessment of these patients are discussed, and attention is drawn to the significance of the concomitant retroperitoneal haematoma as a cause of oligaemic shock, and as a dissembler of internal visceral injury. 3. The morphological fracture patterns are classified into six categories, but the fracture patterns are not correlated with specific visceral injuries. 4. Forty-six patients sustained urinary tract injuries. Of these, nineteen had suffered rupture of the urethra; fourteen had rupture of the bladder; two had both urethral and vesical disruption, and one patient had a torn ureter. The diagnosis and management of these injuries is discussed. 5. Twelve patients had a traumatic laceration or perforation of the ano-rectum. Nine of these patients had associated urethral or vesical injuries. 6. Four patients were involved in accidents and sustained pelvic fractures while in the last three months of pregnancy. The tragic outcome of this combination of circumstances is noted. 7. Attention is drawn to peripheral nerve injuries in association with pelvic fractures, and the difficulty of localising these lesions is stressed. 8. Eight instances of damage to the abdominal parietes are recorded. Four patients suffered skin and soft-tissue loss, two patients had diaphragmatic disruptions and two patients had abdominal wall dehiscences. 9. Major accident victims frequently have multiple injuries. This series of patients has been analysed to draw attention to the association of pelvic fractures with bizarre visceral injuries

Aims

The purpose of this study was to assess total knee arthroplasty (TKA) volume and rates of early complications in morbidly obese patients over the last decade, where the introduction of quality models influencing perioperative care pathways occurred.

Aims

Periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) are among the most devastating complications after joint arthroplasty. There is limited evidence on the efficacy of different antiseptic solutions on reducing biofilm burden. The purpose of the present study was to test the efficacy of different antiseptic solutions against clinically relevant microorganisms in biofilm.

Aims

Open fractures of the tibia are a heterogeneous group of injuries that can present a number of challenges to the treating surgeon. Consequently, few surgeons can reliably advise patients and relatives about the expected outcomes. The aim of this study was to determine whether these outcomes are predictable by using the Ganga Hospital Score (GHS). This has been shown to be a useful method of scoring open injuries to inform wound management and decide between limb salvage and amputation.

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The aim of this study was to determine the impact of the severity of anaemia on postoperative complications following total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Aims

Our purpose was to describe an unusual series of 21 patients with fungal osteomyelitis after an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACL-R).

Aims

Bone demonstrates good healing capacity, with a variety of strategies being utilized to enhance this healing. One potential strategy that has been suggested is the use of stem cells to accelerate healing.

Aims

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many patients continue to require urgent surgery for hip fractures. However, the impact of COVID-19 on perioperative outcomes in these high-risk patients remains unknown. The objectives of this study were to establish the effects of COVID-19 on perioperative morbidity and mortality, and determine any risk factors for increased mortality in patients with COVID-19 undergoing hip fracture surgery.

The COVID-19 virus is a tremendous burden for the Italian health system. The regionally-based Italian National Health System has been reorganized. Hospitals' biggest challenge was to create new intensive care unit (ICU) beds, as the existing system was insufficient to meet new demand, especially in the most affected areas. Our institution in the Milan metropolitan area of Lombardy, the epicentre of the infection, was selected as one of the three regional hub for major trauma, serving a population of more than three million people. The aims were the increase the ICU beds and the rationalization of human and structural resources available for treating COVID-19 patients. In our hub hospital, the reorganization aimed to reduce the risk of infection and to obtained resources, in terms of beds and healthcare personnel to be use in the COVID-19 emergency. Non-urgent outpatient orthopaedic activity and elective surgery was also suspended. A training programme for healthcare personnel started immediately. Orthopaedic and radiological pathways dedicated to COVID-19 patients, or with possible infection, have been established. In our orthopaedic department, we passed from 70 to 26 beds. Our goal is to treat trauma surgery's patient in the “golden 72 hours” in order to reduce the overall hospital length of stay. We applied an objective priority system to manage the flow of surgical procedures in the emergency room based on clinical outcomes and guidelines. Organizing the present to face the emergency is a challenge, but in the global plan of changes in hospital management one must also think about the near future. We reported the Milan metropolitan area orthopaedic surgery management during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our decisions are not based on scientific evidence; therefore, the decision on how reorganize hospitals will likely remain in the hands of individual countries.

Aims

For paediatric and adolescent patients with growth potential, preservation of the physiological joint by transepiphyseal resection (TER) of the femur confers definite advantages over arthroplasty procedures. We hypothesized that the extent of the tumour and changes in its extent after neoadjuvant chemotherapy are essential factors in the selection of this procedure, and can be assessed with MRI. The oncological and functional outcomes of the procedure were reviewed to confirm its safety and efficacy.

Aims

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of operating time on 30-day complications following total hip arthroplasty (THA).

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To evaluate the influence of discharge timing on 30-day complications following total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Aims

To assess the effect of physical exercise (PE) on the histological and transcriptional characteristics of proteoglycan-induced arthritis (PGIA) in BALB/c mice.

Objectives

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an anti-fibrinolytic medication commonly used to reduce perioperative bleeding. Increasingly, topical administration as an intra-articular injection or perioperative wash is being administered during surgery. Adult soft tissues have a poor regenerative capacity and therefore damage to these tissues can be harmful to the patient. This study investigated the effects of TXA on human periarticular tissues and primary cell cultures using clinically relevant concentrations.

Aims

The aim of this study was to explore the patients’ experience of recovery from open fracture of the lower limb in acute care.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to review the current evidence and future application for the role of diagnostic and therapeutic ultrasound in fracture management.

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The aim of this study was to explore the prognostic factors for postoperative neurological recovery and survival in patients with complete paralysis due to neoplastic epidural spinal cord compression.

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The aim of this study was to investigate the differences in 30-day outcomes between patients undergoing revision for an infected total hip arthroplasty (THA) compared with an aseptic revision THA.

Aims

With an ageing population of patients who are infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV), the demand for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in this high-risk group continues to grow. It has previously been shown that HCV infection predisposes to poor outcomes following TKA. However, there is little information about the outcome of TKA in patients with HCV who have been treated successfully. The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes of TKA in untreated HCV patients and those with HCV who have been successfully treated and have a serologically confirmed remission.

Objectives

Intra-articular injections of local anaesthetics (LA), glucocorticoids (GC), or hyaluronic acid (HA) are used to treat osteoarthritis (OA). Contrast agents (CA) are needed to prove successful intra-articular injection or aspiration, or to visualize articular structures dynamically during fluoroscopy. Tranexamic acid (TA) is used to control haemostasis and prevent excessive intra-articular bleeding. Despite their common usage, little is known about the cytotoxicity of common drugs injected into joints. Thus, the aim of our study was to investigate the effects of LA, GC, HA, CA, and TA on the viability of primary human chondrocytes and tenocytes in vitro.

Aims

The aims of this study were to determine the rates of surgical complications, reoperations, and readmissions following herniated lumbar disc surgery, and to investigate the impact of sociodemographic factors and comorbidity on the rate of such unfavourable events.

Aims

The aim of this study was to compare the rate of perioperative complications following aseptic revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) in patients aged ≥ 80 years with that in those aged < 80 years, and to identify risk factors for the incidence of serious adverse events in those aged ≥ 80 years using a large validated national database.