There are no long-term published results on the survival of a third-generation cemented total shoulder replacement. We describe a clinical and radiological study of the Aequalis total shoulder replacement for a minimum of ten years. Between September 1996 and May 1998, 39 consecutive patients underwent a primary cemented total shoulder replacement using this prosthesis. Data were collected prospectively on all patients each year, for a minimum of ten years, or until death or failure of the prosthesis. At a follow-up of at least ten years, 12 patients had died with the prosthesis intact and two had emigrated, leaving 25 available for clinical review. Of these, 13 had rheumatoid arthritis and 12 osteoarthritis. One refused radiological review leaving 24 with fresh radiographs. Survivorship at ten years was 100% for the humeral component and 92% for the glenoid component. The incidence of lucent lines was low. No humeral component was thought to be at risk and only two glenoid components. The osteoarthritic group gained a mean 65° in forward flexion and their Constant score improved by a mean 41.4 points (13 to 55). The rheumatoid group gained a mean of 24° in flexion and their Constant score improved by 29.4 points. This difference may have been due to failure of the rotator cuff in 75% of the patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Thus a third-generation total shoulder replacement gives an excellent result in patients with osteoarthritis and an intact rotator cuff. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis have a 75% risk of failure of the rotator cuff at ten years

Radiological changes and differences between cemented and uncemented components of Grammont reverse shoulder arthroplasties (DePuy) were analysed at a mean follow-up of 9.6 years (8 to 12). Of 122 reverse shoulder arthroplasties implanted in five shoulder centres between 1993 and 2000, a total of 68 (65 patients) were available for study. The indications for reversed shoulder arthroplasty were cuff tear arthropathy in 48 shoulders, revision of shoulder prostheses of various types in 11 and massive cuff tear in nine. The development of scapular notching, bony scapular spur formation, heterotopic ossification, glenoid and humeral radiolucencies, stem subsidence, radiological signs of stress shielding and resorption of the tuberosities were assessed on standardised true anteroposterior and axillary radiographs. A scapular notch was observed in 60 shoulders (88%) and was associated with the superolateral approach (p = 0.009). Glenoid radiolucency was present in 11 (16%), bony scapular spur and/or ossifications in 51 (75%), and subsidence of the stem and humeral radiolucency in more than three zones were present in three (8.8%) and in four (11.8%) of 34 cemented components, respectively, and in one (2.9%) and two (5.9%) of 34 uncemented components, respectively. Radiological signs of stress shielding were significantly more frequent with uncemented components (p < 0.001), as was resorption of the greater (p < 0.001) and lesser tuberosities (p = 0.009)

We report the outcome at a mean of 93 months (73 to 110) of 71 patients with an acute fracture of the scaphoid who were randomised to Herbert screw fixation (35) or below-elbow plaster cast immobilisation (36). These 71 patients represent the majority of a randomised series of 88 patients whose short-term outcome has previously been reported. Those patients available for later review were similar in age, gender and hand dominance. There was no statistical difference in symptoms and disability as assessed by the mean Patient Evaluation Measure (p = 0.4), or mean Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (p = 0.9), the mean range of movement of the wrist (p = 0.4), mean grip strength (p = 0.8), or mean pinch strength (p = 0.4). Radiographs were available from the final review for 59 patients. Osteoarthritic changes were seen in the scaphotrapezial and radioscaphoid joints in eight (13.5%) and six patients (10.2%), respectively. Three patients had asymptomatic lucency surrounding the screw. One non-operatively treated patient developed nonunion with avascular necrosis. In five patients who were treated non-operatively (16%) there was an abnormal scapholunate angle ( > 60°), but in four of these patients this finding was asymptomatic. No medium-term difference in function or radiological outcome was identified between the two treatment groups

Radial osteotomy is currently advocated for patients with Lichtman’s stages II and IIIA of Kienböck’s disease; its place in the treatment of patients with stage IIIB disease remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the medium-term results of this procedure and to compare the outcome in patients with stage IIIB disease and those with earlier stages (II and IIIA). A total of 18 patients (18 osteotomies) were evaluated both clinically and radiologically at a mean follow-up of 10.3 years (4 to 18). Range of movement, grip strength and pain improved significantly in all patients; the functional score (Nakamura Scoring System (NSSK)) was high and self-reported disability (Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire) was low at the final follow-up in all patients evaluated. Patients with stage IIIB disease, however, had a significantly lower grip strength, lower NSSK scores and higher disability than those in less advanced stages. Radiological progression of the disease was not noted in either group, despite the stage. Radial osteotomy seems effective in halting the progression of disease and improving symptoms in stages II, IIIA and IIIB. Patients with less advanced disease should be expected to have better clinical results.

This study investigated the anatomical relationship between the clavicle and its adjacent vascular structures, in order to define safe zones, in terms of distance and direction, for drilling of the clavicle during osteosynthesis using a plate and screws following a fracture. We used reconstructed three-dimensional CT arteriograms of the head, neck and shoulder region. The results have enabled us to divide the clavicle into three zones based on the proximity and relationship of the vascular structures adjacent to it. The results show that at the medial end of the clavicle the subclavian vessels are situated behind it, with the vein intimately related to it. In some scans the vein was opposed to the posterior cortex of the clavicle. At the middle one-third of the clavicle the artery and vein are a mean of 17.02 mm (5.4 to 26.8) and 12.45 mm (5 to 26.1) from the clavicle, respectively, and at a mean angle of 50° (12 to 80) and 70° (38 to 100), respectively, to the horizontal. At the lateral end of the clavicle the artery and vein are at mean distances of 63.4 mm (46.8 to 96.5) and 75.67 mm (50 to 109), respectively.

An appreciation of the information gathered from this study will help minimise the risk of inadvertent iatrogenic vascular injury during plating of the clavicle.

Aims

The optimal choice of management for proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) has been increasingly discussed in the literature, and this work aimed to answer the following questions: 1) what are the incidence rates of PHF in the geriatric population in the USA; 2) what is the mortality rate after PHF in the elderly population, specifically for distinct treatment procedures; and 3) what factors influence the mortality rate?

Aims

This study aimed to define the histopathology of degenerated humeral head cartilage and synovial inflammation of the glenohumeral joint in patients with omarthrosis (OmA) and cuff tear arthropathy (CTA). Additionally, the potential of immunohistochemical tissue biomarkers in reflecting the degeneration status of humeral head cartilage was evaluated.

We report the long-term clinical and radiological outcomes of the Aequalis total shoulder replacement with a cemented all-polyethylene flat-back keeled glenoid component implanted for primary osteoarthritis between 1991 and 2003 in nine European centres. A total of 226 shoulders in 210 patients were retrospectively reviewed at a mean of 122.7 months (61 to 219) or at revision. Clinical outcome was assessed using the Constant score, patient satisfaction score and range of movement. Kaplan-Meier survivorship analysis was performed with glenoid revision for loosening and radiological glenoid loosening (. sd. ) as endpoints. The Constant score was found to improve from a mean of 26.8 (. sd. 10.3) pre-operatively to 57.6 (. sd. 20.0) post-operatively (p < 0.001). Active forward flexion improved from a mean of 85.3° (. sd. 27.4) pre-operatively to 125° (. sd. 37.3) postoperatively (p < 0.001). External rotation improved from a mean of 7° (. sd. 6.5) pre-operatively to 30.3° (. sd. 21.8°) post-operatively (p < 0.001). Survivorship with revision of the glenoid component as the endpoint was 99.1% at five years, 94.5% at ten years and 79.4% at 15 years. Survivorship with radiological loosening as the endpoint was 99.1% at five years, 80.3% at ten years and 33.6% at 15 years. Younger patient age and the curettage technique for glenoid preparation correlated with loosening. The rate of glenoid revision and radiological loosening increased with duration of follow-up, but not until a follow-up of five years. Therefore, we recommend that future studies reporting radiological outcomes of new glenoid designs should report follow-up of at least five to ten years

Aims

To evaluate if union of clavicle fractures can be predicted at six weeks post-injury by the presence of bridging callus on ultrasound.

There are theoretical and practical advantages to modular rather than monoblock designs of prostheses for shoulder arthroplasty, but there are no reported studies which specifically compare the clinical and radiological results of their use. We have compared the results of unconstrained total shoulder arthroplasty for osteoarthritis using both types of implant. The monoblock design was used between 1992 and 1995 and the modular design after 1995. Both had cemented all-polyethylene glenoids, the monoblock with matched and the modular with mismatched radii of curvature. There were 34 consecutive shoulders in each group with a mean follow-up of 6.1 years in the first and 5.2 years in the second. There were no significant differences in improvement of pain scores, active elevation, external rotation, internal rotation, patient satisfaction, or the Neer ratings between the two groups. Two of 28 glenoid components in the first group and six of 30 in the second met the criteria for being radiologically at risk for loosening (p = 0.25). There were no significant differences in clinical outcome or radiological changes between the first- and second-generation designs of implant for shoulder arthroplasty

The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical and radiological outcomes of dorsal intercarpal ligament capsulodesis for the treatment of static scapholunate instability at a minimum follow-up of four years. A total of 59 patients who underwent capsulodesis for this condition were included in a retrospective analysis after a mean of 8.25 years (4.3 to 12). A total of eight patients underwent a salvage procedure at a mean of 2.33 years (0.67 to 7.6) and were excluded. The mean range of extension/flexion was 88° (15° to 135°) and of ulnar/radial deviation was 38° (0° to 75°) at final follow-up. The mean Disabilities of the Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score and Mayo wrist scores were 28 (0 to 85) and 61 (0 to 90), respectively. After significant improvement immediately post-operatively (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively), the mean scapholunate and radiolunate angles deteriorated to 70° (40° to 90°) and 8° (-15° to 25°), respectively, at final follow-up, which were not significantly different from their pre-operative values (p = 0.6 and p = 0.4, respectively). The mean carpal height index decreased significantly from 1.53 (1.38 to 1.65) to 1.48 (1.29 to 1.65) indicating progressive carpal collapse (p < 0.001); 40 patients (78%) had radiological evidence of degenerative arthritis. Capsulodesis did not maintain carpal reduction over time. Although the consequent ongoing scapholunate instability resulted in early arthritic degeneration, most patients had acceptable long-term function of the wrist

A total of 92 patients with symptoms for over six months due to subacromial impingement of the shoulder, who were being treated with physiotherapy, were included in this study. While continuing with physiotherapy they waited a further six months for surgery. They were divided into three groups based on the following four clinical and radiological criteria: temporary benefit following steroid injection, pain in the mid-arc of abduction, a consistently positive Hawkins test and radiological evidence of impingement. Group A fulfilled all four criteria, group B three criteria and group C two criteria. A total of nine patients improved while waiting for surgery and were excluded, leaving 83 who underwent arthroscopic subacromial decompression (SAD). The new Oxford shoulder score was recorded pre-operatively and at three and 12 months post-operatively. A total of 51 patients (group A) had a significant improvement in the mean shoulder score from 18 (13 to 22) pre-operatively to 38 (35 to 42) at three months (p < 0.001). The mean score in this group was significantly better than in group B (21 patients) and C (11 patients) at this time. At one year patients in all groups showed improvement in scores, but patients in group A had a higher mean score (p = 0.01). At one year patients in groups A and B did better than those in group C (p = 0.01). Arthroscopic SAD is a beneficial intervention in selected patients. The four criteria could help identify patients in whom it is likely to be most effective

Displaced fractures of the lateral end of the clavicle in young patients have a high incidence of nonunion and a poor functional outcome after conservative management. Operative treatment is therefore usually recommended. However, current techniques may be associated with complications which require removal of the fixation device. We have evaluated the functional and radiological outcomes using a novel technique of open reduction and internal fixation. A series of 16 patients under 60 years of age with displaced fractures of the lateral end were treated by open reduction and fixation using a twin coracoclavicular endobutton technique. They were followed up for the first year after their injury. At one year the mean Constant score was 87.1 and the median Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score was 3.3. All fractures had united, except in one patient who developed an asymptomatic fibrous union. One patient had post-traumatic stiffness of the shoulder, which resolved with physiotherapy. None required re-operation. This technique produces good functional and radiological outcomes with a low prevalence of complications and routine implant removal is not necessary

We report the use of a free vascularised iliac bone graft in the treatment of 21 patients (19 men and 2 women) with an avascular nonunion of the scaphoid in which conventional bone grafting had previously failed. The mean age of the patients was 32 years (23 to 46) and the dominant wrist was affected in 14. The mean interval from fracture to the vascularised bone grafting was 39 months (9 to 62). Pre-operative MRI showed no contrast enhancement in the proximal fragment in any patient. Fracture union was assessed radiologically or with CT scans if the radiological appearances were inconclusive. At a mean follow-up of 5.6 years (2 to 11) union was obtained in 16 patients. The remaining five patients with a persistent nonunion continued to experience pain, reduced grip strength and limited range of wrist movement. In the successfully treated patients the grip strength and range of movement did not recover to match the uninjured side. Prevention of progressive carpal collapse, the absence of donor site morbidity, good subjective results and pain relief, justifies this procedure in the treatment of recalcitrant nonunion of the scaphoid

We have previously described the short-term outcome of the use of reverse shoulder arthroplasty in the treatment of acute complex proximal humeral fractures in the elderly. We now report the clinical and radiological outcome of 36 fractures at a mean of 6.6 years (1 to 16). Previously, at a mean follow-up of 6 years (1 to 12) the mean Constant score was 58.5; this was reduced to 53 points with the further follow-up. A total of 23 patients (63%) had radiological evidence of loosening of the glenoid component. Nevertheless, only one patient had aseptic loosening of the baseplate at 12 years’ follow-up. The reduction in the mean Constant score with longer follow-up and the further development of scapular notching is worrying. New developments in design, bearing surfaces and surgical technique, and further follow-up, will determine whether reverse shoulder arthroplasty has a place in the management of complex proximal humeral fractures in the elderly

We analysed the outcome of the Coonrad-Morrey total elbow replacement used for fracture of the distal humerus in elderly patients with no evidence of inflammatory arthritis and compared the results for early versus delayed treatment. We studied a total of 32 patients with 15 in the early treatment group and 17 in the delayed treatment group. The mean follow-up was 56.1 months (18 to 88). The percentage of excellent to good results based on the Mayo elbow performance score was not significantly different, 84% in the early group and 79% in the delayed group. Subjective satisfaction was 92% in both the groups. One patient in the early group developed chronic regional pain syndrome and another type 4 aseptic loosening. Two elbows in the early group also showed type 1 radiological loosening. Two patients in the delayed group had an infection, two an ulnar nerve palsy, one developed heterotopic ossification and one type 4 aseptic loosening. Two elbows in this group also showed type 1 radiological loosening. The Kaplan-Meier survivorship analysis for the early and delayed treatment groups was 93% at 88 months and 76% at 84 months, respectively. No significant difference was found between the two groups

The combination of an irreparable tear of the rotator cuff and destructive arthritis of the shoulder joint may cause severe pain, disability and loss of independence in the aged. Standard anatomical shoulder replacements depend on a functioning rotator cuff, and hence may fail in the presence of tears in the cuff. Many designs of non-anatomical constrained or semi-constrained prostheses have been developed for cuff tear arthropathy, but have proved unsatisfactory and were abandoned. The DePuy Delta III reverse prosthesis, designed by Grammont, medialises and stabilises the centre of rotation of the shoulder joint and has shown early promise. This study evaluated the mid-term clinical and radiological results of this arthroplasty in a consecutive series of 50 shoulders in 43 patients with a painful pseudoparalysis due to an irreparable cuff tear and destructive arthritis, performed over a period of seven years by a single surgeon. A follow-up of 98% was achieved, with a mean duration of 39 months (8 to 81). The mean age of the patients at the time of surgery was 81 years (59 to 95). The female to male ratio was 5:1. During the seven years, six patients died of natural causes. The clinical outcome was assessed using the American Shoulder and Elbow score, the Oxford Shoulder Score and the Short-form 36 score. A radiological review was performed using the Sirveaux score for scapular notching. The mean American Shoulder and Elbow score was 19 (95% confidence interval (CI) 14 to 23) pre-operatively, and 65 (95% CI 48 to 82) (paired t-test, p < 0.001) at final follow-up. The mean Oxford score was 44 (95% CI 40 to 51) pre-operatively and 23 (95% CI 18 to 28) (paired t-test, p < 0.001) at final follow-up. The mean maximum elevation improved from 55° pre-operatively to 105° at final follow-up. There were seven complications during the whole series, although only four patients required further surgery

Mason type III fractures of the radial head are treated by open reduction and internal fixation, resection or prosthetic joint replacement. When internal fixation is performed, fixation of the radial head to the shaft is difficult and implant-related complications are common. Furthermore, problems of devascularisation of the radial head can result from fixation of the plate to the radial neck. In a small retrospective study, the treatment of Mason type III fractures with fixation of the radial neck in 13 cases (group 2) was compared with 12 cases where no fixation was performed (group 1). The mean clinical and radiological follow-up was four years (1 to 9). The Broberg-Morrey index showed excellent results in both groups. Degenerative radiological changes were seen more frequently in group 2, and removal of the implant was necessary in seven of 13 cases. Post-operative evaluation of these two different techniques revealed similar ranges of movement and functional scores. We propose that anatomical reconstruction of the radial head without metalwork fixation to the neck is preferable, and the outcome is the same as that achieved with the conventional technique. In addition degenerative changes of the elbow joint may develop less frequently, and implant removal is not necessary

We treated 32 displaced mallet finger fractures by a two extension block Kirschner-wire technique. The clinical and radiological outcomes were evaluated at a mean follow-up of 49 months (25 to 84). The mean joint surface involvement was 38.4% (33% to 50%) and 18 patients (56%) had accompanying joint subluxation. All 32 fractures united with a mean time to union of 6.2 weeks (5.1 to 8.2). Congruent joint surfaces and anatomical reduction were seen in all cases. The mean flexion of the distal interphalangeal joints was 83.1° (75° to 90°) and the mean extension loss was 0.9° (0° to 7°). No digit had a prominent dorsal bump or a recurrent mallet deformity. We believe that this technique, when properly applied, produces satisfactory results both clinically and radiologically

Between 1993 and 2002, 58 GSB III total elbow replacements were implanted in 45 patients with rheumatoid arthritis by the same surgeon. At the most recent follow-up, five patients had died (five elbows) and six (nine elbows) had been lost to follow-up, leaving 44 total elbow replacements in 34 patients available for clinical and radiological review at a mean follow-up of 74 months (25 to 143). There were 26 women and eight men with a mean age at operation of 55.7 years (24 to 77). At the latest follow-up, 31 excellent (70%), six good (14%), three fair (7%) and four poor (9%) results were noted according to the Mayo elbow performance score. Five humeral (11%) and one ulnar (2%) component were loose according to radiological criteria (type III or type IV). Of the 44 prostheses, two (5%) had been revised, one for type-IV humeral loosening after follow-up for ten years and one for fracture of the ulnar component. Seven elbows had post-operative dysfunction of the ulnar nerve, which was transient in five and permanent in two. Despite an increased incidence of loosening with time, the GSB III prosthesis has given favourable mid-term results in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Our aim in this prospective study was to evaluate the outcome of total shoulder replacement in the treatment of young and middle-aged active patients with primary glenohumeral osteoarthritis. We reviewed 21 patients (21 shoulders) with a mean age of 55 years (37 to 60). The mean follow-up was seven years (5 to 9). The same anatomical, third-generation, cemented implant had been used in all patients. All the patients were evaluated radiologically and clinically using the Constant and Murley score. No patients required revision. In one a tear of the supraspinatus tendon occurred. Overall, 20 patients (95%) were either very satisfied (n = 18) or satisfied (n = 2) with the outcome. Significant differences (p < 0.0001) were found for all categories of the Constant and Murley score pre- and post-operatively. The mean Constant and Murley score increased from 24.1 points (10 to 45) to 64.5 points (39 to 93), and the relative score from 30.4% (11% to 50%) to 83% (54% to 116%). No clinical or radiological signs of loosening of the implant were seen. For young and middle-aged patients with osteoarthritis, third-generation total shoulder replacement is a viable method of treatment with a low rate of complications and excellent results in the mid-term

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

Os acromiale is a rare anatomical abnormality and treatment is controversial. Our retrospective study analyses the outcome of excision, acromioplasty and bony fusion of the os acromiale when it is associated with a tear of the rotator cuff. After a mean follow-up of 41 months, 33 patients were radiologically and clinically assessed using the Constant score. The surgical procedure was to repair the rotator cuff together with excision of the os acromiale in six patients, acromioplasty in five, and fusion in 22. Of the 22 attempted fusions seven failed radiologically. The Constant scores were 82%, 81%, 81% and 84% for patients who had excision, acromioplasty, successful fusion and unsuccessful fusion respectively. There were no statistically significant differences. We conclude that a small mobile os acromiale can be resected, a large stable os acromiale treated by acromioplasty and a large unstable os acromiale by fusion to the acromion. Even without radiological fusion the clinical outcome can be good

Most patients with a nightstick fracture of the ulna are treated conservatively. Various techniques of immobilisation or early mobilisation have been studied. We performed a systematic review of all published randomised controlled trials and observational studies that have assessed the outcome of these fractures following above- or below-elbow immobilisation, bracing and early mobilisation. We searched multiple electronic databases, related bibliographies and other studies. We included 27 studies comprising 1629 fractures in the final analysis. The data relating to the time to radiological union and the rates of delayed union and nonunion could be pooled and analysed statistically. We found that early mobilisation produced the shortest radiological time to union (mean 8.0 weeks) and the lowest mean rate of nonunion (0.6%). Fractures treated with above- or below-elbow immobilisation and braces had longer mean radiological times to union (9.2 weeks, 9.2 weeks and 8.7 weeks, respectively) and higher mean rates of nonunion (3.8%, 2.1% and 0.8%, respectively). There was no statistically significant difference in the rate of non- or delayed union between those treated by early mobilisation and the three forms of immobilisation (p = 0.142 to p = 1.000, respectively). All the studies had significant biases, but until a robust randomised controlled trial is undertaken the best advice for the treatment of undisplaced or partially displaced nightstick fractures appears to be early mobilisation, with a removable forearm support for comfort as required. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:952–9

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the risk of late displacement after the treatment of distal radial fractures with a locking volar plate, and to investigate the clinical and radiological factors that might correlate with re-displacement. From March 2007 to October 2009, 120 of an original cohort of 132 female patients with unstable fractures of the distal radius were treated with a volar locking plate, and were studied over a follow-up period of six months. In the immediate post-operative and final follow-up radiographs, late displacement was evaluated as judged by ulnar variance, radial inclination, and dorsal angulation. We also analysed the correlation of a variety of clinical and radiological factors with re-displacement. Ulnar variance was significantly overcorrected (p < 0.001) while radial inclination and dorsal angulation were undercorrected when compared statistically (p <  0.001) with the unaffected side in the immediate post-operative stage. During follow-up, radial shortening and dorsal angulation progressed statistically, but none had a value beyond the acceptable range. Bone mineral density measured at the proximal femur and the position of the screws in the subchondral region, correlated with slight progressive radial shortening, which was not clinically relevant. Volar locking plating of distal radial fractures is a reliable form of treatment without substantial late displacement. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:396–400

We hypothesised that a large acromial cover with an upwardly tilted glenoid fossa would be associated with degenerative rotator cuff tears (RCTs), and conversely, that a short acromion with an inferiorly inclined glenoid would be associated with glenohumeral osteoarthritis (OA). This hypothesis was tested using a new radiological parameter, the critical shoulder angle (CSA), which combines the measurements of inclination of the glenoid and the lateral extension of the acromion (the acromion index). The CSA was measured on standardised radiographs of three groups: 1) a control group of 94 asymptomatic shoulders with normal rotator cuffs and no OA; 2) a group of 102 shoulders with MRI-documented full-thickness RCTs without OA; and 3) a group of 102 shoulders with primary OA and no RCTs noted during total shoulder replacement. The mean CSA was 33.1° (26.8° to 38.6°) in the control group, 38.0° (29.5° to 43.5°) in the RCT group and 28.1° (18.6° to 35.8°) in the OA group. Of patients with a CSA > 35°, 84% were in the RCT group and of those with a CSA < 30°, 93% were in the OA group. We therefore concluded that primary glenohumeral OA is associated with significantly smaller degenerative RCTs with significantly larger CSAs than asymptomatic shoulders without these pathologies. These findings suggest that individual quantitative anatomy may imply biomechanics that are likely to induce specific types of degenerative joint disorders. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:935–41

The Motec cementless modular metal-on-metal ball-and-socket wrist arthroplasty was implanted in 16 wrists with scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (SNAC; grades 3 or 4) and 14 wrists with scapholunate advanced collapse (SLAC) in 30 patients (20 men) with severe (grades 3 or 4) post-traumatic osteoarthritis of the wrist. The mean age of the patients was 52 years (31 to 71). All prostheses integrated well radiologically. At a mean follow-up of 3.2 years (1.1 to 6.1) no luxation or implant breakage occurred. Two wrists were converted to an arthrodesis for persistent pain. Loosening occurred in one further wrist at five years post-operatively. The remainder demonstrated close bone–implant contact. The clinical results were good, with markedly decreased Disabilities of the Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH) and pain scores, and increased movement and grip strength. No patient used analgesics and most had returned to work. Good short-term function was achieved using this wrist arthroplasty in a high-demand group of patients with post-traumatic osteoarthritis

A suspected fracture of the scaphoid remains difficult to manage despite advances in knowledge and imaging methods. Immobilisation and restriction of activities in a young and active patient must be balanced against the risks of nonunion associated with an undiagnosed and undertreated fracture of the scaphoid. The assessment of diagnostic tests for a suspected fracture of the scaphoid must take into account two important factors. First, the prevalence of true fractures among suspected fractures is low, which greatly reduces the probability that a positive test will correspond with a true fracture, as false positives are nearly as common as true positives. This situation is accounted for by Bayesian statistics. Secondly, there is no agreed reference standard for a true fracture, which necessitates the need for an alternative method of calculating diagnostic performance characteristics, based upon a statistical method which identifies clinical factors tending to associate (latent classes) in patients with a high probability of fracture. The most successful diagnostic test to date is MRI, but in low-prevalence situations the positive predictive value of MRI is only 88%, and new data have documented the potential for false positive scans. The best strategy for improving the diagnosis of true fractures among suspected fractures of the scaphoid may well be to develop a clinical prediction rule incorporating a set of demographic and clinical factors which together increase the pre-test probability of a fracture of the scaphoid, in addition to developing increasingly sophisticated radiological tests

We describe the longer term clinical and radiological findings in a prospectively followed series of 49 rheumatoid patients (58 shoulders) who had undergone Neer II total shoulder replacement. The early and intermediate results have been published previously. At a mean follow-up of 19.8 years (16.5 to 23.8) 14 shoulders survived. Proximal migration of the humeral component was associated with progressive loosening of the glenoid and humeral components, but was independent of the state of the rotator cuff at the time of operation. Despite these changes the range of movement was preserved. Most patients had little or no pain in the shoulder, could sleep undisturbed and could attend to personal hygiene and grooming

We have reviewed 20 patients stage-IIIB and stage-IV Kienböck’s disease in order to examine the efficacy of two forms of radial osteotomy, namely radial wedge osteotomy and radial shortening. Lateral closing wedge osteotomies and radial shortenings were carried out on 11 and nine patients, respectively. There were no preoperative differences with respect to age, gender, and radiological stage. After a mean follow-up of 29 months, all patients, in both groups, had either a good or an excellent outcome. After the lateral closing wedge osteotomy, the radioscaphoid angle significantly increased and the St̊hl index significantly decreased. Progression of the degenerative changes at the radioscaphoid joint was found in two patients in this group. By contrast, there were no significant changes in any radiological parameters after radial shortening. Both procedures gave acceptable clinical results in stage-IIIB and stage-IV Kienböck’s disease

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

We compared the long-term outcome in 61 patients (62 fractures) treated operatively or conservatively for an acute fracture of the carpal scaphoid. A total of 30 fractures was randomised to conservative treatment using a cast and 32 to operative treatment using a Herbert bone screw. The duration of sick leave was shorter for patients treated by operation, but this was only significant in patients with blue-collar occupations. There were no differences between the groups in respect of function, radiological healing of the fracture, or carpal arthritis after follow-up at 12 years. Those managed by operation showed radiological signs of arthritis of the scaphotrapezial joint more often, but this finding did not correlate with subjective symptoms. Operative treatment of an acute fracture of the scaphoid allows early return of function and should be regarded as an alternative to conservative treatment in patients in whom immobilisation in a cast for three months is not acceptable for reasons related to sports, social life or work

We present the long-term outcome, at a median of 18 years (12.8 to 23.5) of open posterior bone block stabilisation for recurrent posterior instability of the shoulder in a heterogenous group of 11 patients previously reported on in 2001 at a median follow-up of six years. We found that five (45%) would not have chosen the operation again, and that four (36%) had further posterior dislocation. Clinical outcome was significantly worse after 18 years than after six years of follow-up (median Rowe score of 60 versus 90 (p = 0.027)). The median Western Ontario Shoulder Index was 60% (37% to 100%) at 18 years’ follow-up, which is a moderate score. At the time of surgery four (36%) had glenohumeral radiological osteoarthritis, which was present in all after 18 years. This study showed poor long-term results of the posterior bone block procedure for posterior instability and a high rate of glenohumeral osteoarthritis although three patients with post-traumatic instability were pleased with the result of their operations

We describe our experience with vascularised bone grafting for the treatment of fibrous dysplasia of the upper limb in eight patients, five men and three women, aged between 17 and 36 years. The site was in the humerus in six and the radius in two. Persistent pain, progression of the lesion and pathological fracture with delayed union were the indications for surgical intervention. We used a vascularised fibular graft after curettage of the lesion. Function and radiological progress were serially monitored. Early radiological union of the graft occurred at periods ranging from 8 to 14 weeks. The mean period for reconstitution of the diameter of the bone was 14 months (12 to 18) predominantly through inductive formation of bone around the vascularised graft, which was a prominent feature in all patients. There were no recurrences and none of the grafts sustained a fracture or failed to unite. After operation function was excellent in three patients and good in five. Vascularised bone grafts provide a safe and reliable means of ensuring good continuity of bone with little risk of recurrence and failure

In 100 patients the fulcrum axis which is the line connecting the anterior tip of the coracoid and the posterolateral angle of the acromion, was used to position true anteroposterior radiographs of the shoulder. This method was then compared with the conventional radiological technique in a further 100 patients. Three orthopaedic surgeons counted the number of images without overlap between the humeral head and glenoid and calculated the amount of the glenoid surface visible in each radiograph. The analysis was repeated for intraobserver reliability. The learning curves of both techniques were studied. The amount of free visible glenoid space was significantly higher using the fulcrum-axis method (64 vs 31) and the comparable glenoid size increased significantly (8.56 vs 6.47). Thus the accuracy of the anteroposterior radiographs of the shoulder is impaired by using this technique. The intra and interobserver reliability showed a high consistency. No learning curve was observed for either technique

We have performed a clinical and radiological analysis of 105 shoulder arthroplasties in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The clinical results showed improvements in the Constant-Murley and Association of Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score of 21 and 35, respectively. Both were statistically significant (p < 0.001). This improvement was maintained over a period of 8.8 years. There was no statistically significant difference in the scores after hemiarthroplasty and those after total arthroplasty. The presence of an intact rotator cuff was associated with improved function in both groups. In spite of the use of an uncemented humeral stem, no implant was radiologically loose or at risk. There was lucency in a single zone in 14 implants. One glenoid component was at risk and 16 had lucency in a single zone. There was, however, a significant difference in the amount of lucency which was associated with pegged and keeled glenoid components (p = 0.005). In the group with hemiarthroplasty, two or more years after surgery there was superior migration of the humeral component by more than 5 mm in 18 shoulders (28%) and medial migration by more than 2 mm in eight (16%). Both superior and medial migration had an effect on the outcome. Revision was undertaken in four patients for persistent pain relating to medial migration. With revision taken as the endpoint for survival after eight years, 92% were found to be still in situ

We evaluated 100 consecutive patients with a suspected scaphoid fracture but without evidence of a fracture on plain radiographs using MRI within 24 hours of injury, and bone scintigraphy three to five days after injury. The reference standard for a true radiologically-occult scaphoid fracture was either a diagnosis of fracture on both MRI and bone scintigraphy, or, in the case of discrepancy, clinical and/or radiological evidence of a fracture. MRI revealed 16 scaphoid and 24 other fractures. Bone scintigraphy showed 28 scaphoid and 40 other fractures. According to the reference standard there were 20 scaphoid fractures. MRI was falsely negative for scaphoid fracture in four patients and bone scintigraphy falsely positive in eight. MRI had a sensitivity of 80% and a specificity of 100%. Bone scintigraphy had a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 90%. This study did not confirm that early, short-sequence MRI was superior to bone scintigraphy for the diagnosis of a suspected scaphoid fracture. Bone scintigraphy remains a highly sensitive and reasonably specific investigation for the diagnosis of an occult scaphoid fracture

This study was performed to review the safety and outcome of total shoulder replacements in patients who are ≥ 80 years of age. A total of 50 total shoulder replacements in 44 patients at a mean age of 82 years (80 to 89) were studied. Their health and shoulder status, the operation and post-operative course were analysed, including pain, movement, patient satisfaction, medical and surgical complications, radiographs, the need for revision surgery, and implant and patient survival. A total of 27 patients had an ASA classification of III or IV and medical abnormalities were common. Of the 13 shoulders with bony deficiency of the glenoid, nine required grafting. The duration of hospital stay was prolonged and blood transfusions were common. There were no peri-operative deaths. The mean follow-up was for 5.5 years (2 to 12). Pain was significantly reduced (p < 0.001) and movement improved in active elevation and both external and internal rotation (p < 0.001). Using the Neer scale for assessing outcome, 40 (80%) shoulders had an excellent or satisfactory result. There were medical or surgical complications in 17 cases. Four shoulders developed radiological evidence of loosened glenoid components, and three of these had a poor outcome. Three other shoulders required revision, two for instability. By the time of this review 39 of the patients had died from unrelated causes at a mean of 7.5 years (0.8 to 16.4) after surgery. Total shoulder replacement is a relatively effective treatment in this elderly group of patients. However, there is a requirement for more intense patient care in the peri-operative period, and non-fatal medical or surgical complications are common. Most of these elderly patients will have a comfortable functional shoulder for the rest of their lives

We compared the outcome of peri-operative humeral condylar fractures in patients undergoing a Coonrad-Morrey semiconstrained total elbow replacement with that of patients with rheumatoid arthritis undergoing the same procedure without fractures. In a consecutive series of 40 elbows in 33 patients, 13 elbows had a fracture in either condyle peri-operatively, and 27 elbows were intact. The fractured condyle was either fixed internally or excised. We found no statistical difference in the patients’ background, such as age, length of follow-up, immobilisation period, Larsen’s radiological grade, or Steinbrocker’s stage and functional class. There was also no statistical difference between the groups in relation to the Mayo Elbow Performance Score, muscle strength, range of movement, or radiolucency around the implants at a mean of 4.8 years (1.1 to 8.0) follow-up. We conclude that fractured condyles can be successfully treated with either internal fixation or excision, and cause no harmful effect

The Acclaim total elbow replacement is a modular system which allows implantation in both unlinked and linked modes. The results of the use of this implant in primary total elbow replacement in 36 patients, operated on between July 2000 and August 2002, are presented at a mean follow-up of 36 months (24 to 49). Only one patient did not have good relief of pain, but all had improved movement and function. No implant showed clinical or radiological loosening, although one had a lucent area in three of seven humeral zones. The short-term results of the Acclaim total elbow replacement are encouraging. However, 11 patients (30.5%) suffered an intra-operative fracture of the humeral condyle. This did not affect the outcome, or the requirement for further surgery, except in one case where the fracture failed to unite. This problem has hopefully been addressed by redesigning the humeral resection guide. Other complications included three cases of ulnar neuropathy (8.3%) and one of deep infection (2.8%)

We report the outcome of a modified Bankart procedure using suture anchors in 31 patients (31 shoulders) with a mean follow-up of 11 years (10 to 15). The mean age of the patients was 28 years (16 to 39). At follow-up, the mean Rowe score was 90 points (66 to 98) and the Constant score was 96 points (85 to 100). A total of 26 shoulders (84%) had a good or excellent result. The rate of recurrence varied between 6.7% and 9.7% and depended on how recurrence was defined. Two patients had a significant new injury at one and nine years, respectively after operation. The overall rate of instability (including subluxations) varied between 12.9% and 22.6%. All patients returned to work, with 29 (94%) resuming their pre-operative occupation and level of activity. Mild radiological osteoarthritis was seen in nine shoulders (29%) and severe osteoarthritis in one. We conclude that the open modified Bankart procedure is a reliable surgical technique with good long-term results

Cubitus varus and valgus are the most common complications of supracondylar and lateral condylar fractures. Various combinations of osteotomy and fixation have been described to correct these deformities but each is associated with significant complications. In this study, we used distraction osteogenesis and Ilizarov frame fixation to treat 24 elbows in 23 patients with cubitus varus or valgus. Their clinical outcome was evaluated using the protocol of Bellemore et al. The mean time to follow-up was 18.3 months (10 to 36) and the mean time to frame removal was 13.5 weeks (8 to 20). The mean carrying angle was corrected from −18.7° (−10° to −30°) to 6.1° (2° to 10°) in patients with cubitus varus and from 36.5° (25° to 45°) to 9.4° (4° to 15°) in patients with cubitus valgus. There were 18 excellent and six good results. The Ilizarov method with gradual distraction is a safe, stable, adjustable and versatile method of treating deformities at the elbow without the problems of an unsightly scar or limited range of movement, and gives a good clinical and radiological outcome. Tardy ulnar nerve palsy should be treated first by anterior transposition

We retrospectively reviewed 21 patients (22 shoulders) who presented with deep infection after surgery to the shoulder, 17 having previously undergone hemiarthroplasty and five open repair of the rotator cuff. Nine shoulders had undergone previous surgical attempts to eradicate their infection. The diagnosis of infection was based on a combination of clinical suspicion (16 shoulders), positive frozen sections (> 5 polymorphonuclear leukocytes per high-power field) at the time of revision (15 shoulders), positive intra-operative cultures (18 shoulders) or the pre-operative radiological appearances. The patients were treated by an extensive debridement, intravenous antibiotics, and conversion to a reverse shoulder prosthesis in either a single- (10 shoulders) or a two-stage (12 shoulders) procedure. At a mean follow-up of 43 months (25 to 66) there was no evidence of recurrent infection. All outcome measures showed statistically significant improvements. Mean abduction improved from 36.1° (. sd. 27.8) pre-operatively to 75.7° (. sd. 36.0) (p < 0.0001), the mean forward flexion from 43.1° (. sd. 33.5) to 79.5° (. sd. 43.2) (p = 0.0003), and mean external rotation from 10.2° (. sd. 18.7) to 25.4° (. sd. 23.5) (p = 0.0037). There was no statistically significant difference in any outcome between the single-stage and the two-stage group

This study reports our experience with total elbow replacement for fused elbows. Between 1982 and 2004, 13 patients with spontaneously ankylosed elbows were treated with a linked semi-constrained non-custom total elbow implant. The mean age at operation was 54 years (24 to 80). The stiffness was a result of trauma in ten elbows, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis in one, and rheumatoid arthritis in two. The patients were followed for a mean of 12 years (2 to 26) and were evaluated clinically using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score, as well as radiologically. A mean arc from 37° of extension to 118° of flexion was achieved. Outcomes were good or excellent for seven elbows at final review. Ten patients felt better or much better after total elbow replacement. However, there was a high complication rate and re-operation was required in over half of patients. Two developed peri-operative soft-tissue breakdown requiring debridement. A muscle flap with skin grafting was used for soft-tissue cover in one. Revision was undertaken in one elbow following fracture of the ulnar component. Three patients developed a deep infection. Three elbows were manipulated under anaesthesia for post-operative stiffness. Prophylactic measures for heterotopic ossification were unsuccessful. Total elbow replacement for the ankylosed elbow should be performed with caution. However, the outcome can be reliable in the long term and have a markedly positive impact on patient function and satisfaction. The high potential for complications must be considered. We consider total elbow replacement to be an acceptable procedure in selected patients with reasonable expectations

Over a seven-year period we treated a consecutive series of 58 patients, 20 men and 38 women with a mean age of 66 years (21 to 87) who had an acute complex anterior fracture-dislocation of the proximal humerus. Two patterns of injury are proposed for study based upon a prospective assessment of the pattern of soft-tissue and bony injury and the degree of devascularisation of the humeral head. In 23 patients, the head had retained capsular attachments and arterial back-bleeding (type-I injury), whereas in 35 patients the head was devoid of significant soft-tissue attachments with no active arterial bleeding (type-II injury). Following treatment by open reduction and internal fixation, only two of 23 patients with type-I injuries developed radiological evidence of osteonecrosis of the humeral head, compared with four of seven patients with type-II injuries. A policy of primary treatment by open reduction and internal fixation of type-I injuries is justified, whereas most elderly patients (aged 60 years or over) with type-II injuries are best treated by hemiarthroplasty. The best treatment for younger patients (aged under 60 years) who sustain type-II injuries is controversial and an individualised approach to their management is advocated

While frequently discussed as a standard treatment for the management of an infected shoulder replacement, there is little information on the outcome of two-stage re-implantation. We examined the outcome of 17 consecutive patients (19 shoulders) who were treated between 1995 and 2004 with a two-stage re-implantation for the treatment of a deep-infection after shoulder replacement. All 19 shoulders were followed for a minimum of two years or until the time of further revision surgery. The mean clinical follow-up was for 35 months (24 to 80). The mean radiological follow-up was 27 months (7 to 80). There were two excellent results, four satisfactory and 13 unsatisfactory. In 12 of the 19 shoulders (63%) infection was considered to be eradicated. The mean pain score improved from 4.2 (3 to 5 (out of 5)) to 1.8 (1 to 4). The mean elevation improved from 42° (0° to 140°) to 89° (0° to 165°), mean external rotation from 30° (0° to 90°) to 43° (0° to 90°), and mean internal rotation from the sacrum to L5. There were 14 complications. Our study suggests that two-stage re-implantation for an infected shoulder replacement is associated with a high rate of unsatisfactory results, marginal success at eradicating infection and a high complication rate

We examined the effects of previous resection of the radial head and synovectomy on the outcome of subsequent total elbow arthroplasty in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Fifteen elbows with a history of resection and synovectomy were compared with a control group of patients who had elbow arthroplasty with an implant of the same design. The mean age in both groups was 63 years. In the study group, resection of the radial head and synovectomy had been undertaken at a mean of 8.9 years before arthroplasty. The mean radiological follow-up for the 13 available patients in the study group was 5.89 years (0.3 to 11.0) and in the control group was 6.6 years (2.2 to 12.6). There were no revisions in either group. The mean Mayo elbow performance score improved from 29 to 96 in the study group, with similar improvement in the control group (28 to 87). The study group had excellent results in 13 elbows and good results in two. The control group had excellent results in seven and good results in six. Our experience indicates that previous resection of the radial head and synovectomy are not associated with an increased rate of revision following subsequent arthroplasty of the elbow. However, there was a higher rate of complication in the study group compared with the control group

We have undertaken a prospective clinical and radiological analysis of 124 shoulder arthroplasties (113 patients) carried out for osteoarthritis. The clinical results showed improvement in the absolute Constant score and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score of 22 and 43, respectively. Both were statistically significant (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the scores after hemiarthroplasty and total arthroplasty in those patients with an intact rotator cuff. When revision was used as the end-point for survival at ten years, survival of 86%, or 90% if glenoid components made of Hylamer sterilised in air were omitted, was obtained in primary osteoarthritis. The most common cause for revision in the hemiarthroplasty group was glenoid pain at a mean of 1.5 years; in the total arthroplasty group it was loosening of the glenoid at a mean of 4.5 years. Analysis of pre-operative factors showed that the risk of gross loosening of the glenoid increased threefold when there was evidence of erosion of the glenoid at operation. Shoulder arthroplasty should not be delayed once symptomatic osteoarthritis has been established and should be undertaken before failure of the cuff or erosion of the glenoid are present

Replacement of the shoulder in juvenile idiopathic arthritis is not often performed and there have been no published series to date. We present nine glenohumeral hemiarthroplasties in eight patients with systemic or polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis. The mean follow-up was six years (59 to 89 months). The mean age at the time of surgery was 32 years. Surgery took place at a mean of 27 years after diagnosis. The results indicated excellent relief from pain. There was restoration of useful function which deteriorated with time, in part because of progression of the systemic disease in this severely affected group. No patient has required revision to date and there has been no radiological evidence of loosening or osteolysis around the implants. We discuss the pathoanatomical challenges unique to this group. There was very little space for a prosthetic joint and, in some cases, bony deformity and the small size necessitated the use of custom-made implants

After establishing anatomical feasibility, functional reconstruction to replace the anterolateral part of the deltoid was performed in 20 consecutive patients with irreversible deltoid paralysis using the sternoclavicular portion of the pectoralis major muscle. The indication for reconstruction was deltoid deficiency combined with massive rotator cuff tear in 11 patients, brachial plexus palsy in seven, and an isolated axillary nerve lesion in two. All patients were followed clinically and radiologically for a mean of 70 months (24 to 125). The mean gender-adjusted Constant score increased from 28% (15% to 54%) to 51% (19% to 83%). Forward elevation improved by a mean of 37°, abduction by 30° and external rotation by 9°. The pectoralis inverse plasty may be used as a salvage procedure in irreversible deltoid deficiency, providing subjectively satisfying results. Active forward elevation and abduction can be significantly improved

We have compared the outcome of hemiarthroplasty of the shoulder in three distinct diagnostic groups, using survival analysis as used by the United Kingdom national joint registers, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) as recommended by Darzi in the 2008 NHS review, and transition and satisfaction questions. A total of 72 hemiarthroplasties, 19 for primary osteoarthritis (OA) with an intact rotator cuff, 22 for OA with a torn rotator cuff, and 31 for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), were followed up for between three and eight years. All the patients survived, with no revisions or dislocations and no significant radiological evidence of loosening. The mean new Oxford shoulder score (minimum/worst 0, maximum/best 48) improved significantly for all groups (p < 0.001), in the OA group with an intact rotator cuff from 21.4 to 38.8 (effect size 2.9), in the OA group with a torn rotator cuff from 13.3 to 27.2 (effect size 2.1) and in the RA group from 13.7 to 28.0 (effect size 3.1). By this assessment, and for the survival analysis, there was no significant difference between the groups. However, when ratings using the patient satisfaction questions were analysed, eight (29.6%) of the RA group were ‘disappointed’, compared with one (9.1%) of the OA group with cuff intact and one (7.7%) of the OA group with cuff torn. All patients in the OA group with cuff torn indicated that they would undergo the operation again, compared to ten (90.9%) in the OA group with cuff intact and 20 (76.9%) in the RA group. The use of revision rates alone does not fully represent outcome after hemiarthroplasty of the shoulder. Data from PROMs provides more information about change in pain and the ability to undertake activities and perform tasks. The additional use of satisfaction ratings shows that both the rates of revision surgery and PROMs need careful interpretation in the context of patient expectations

Aims

Plating displaced proximal humeral fractures is associated with a high rate of screw perforation. Dynamization of the proximal screws might prevent these complications. The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate a new gliding screw concept for plating proximal humeral fractures biomechanically.

We retrospectively reviewed 11 consecutive patients with an infected reverse shoulder prosthesis. Patients were assessed clinically and radiologically, and standard laboratory tests were carried out. Peroperative samples showed Propionbacterium acnes in seven, coagulase-negative Staphylococcus in five, methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus in one and Escherichia coli in one. Two multibacterial and nine monobacterial infections were seen. Post-operatively, patients were treated with intravenous cefazolin for at least three days and in all antibiotic therapy was given for at least three months. Severe pain (3 of 11) or severe limitation of function (3 of 11) are not necessarily seen. A fistula was present in eight, but function was not affected. All but one patient were considered free of infection after one-stage revision at a median follow-up of 24 months, and without antibiotic treatment for a minimum of six months. One patient had a persistent infection despite a second staged revision, but is now free of infection with a spacer. Complications included posterior dislocation in one, haematoma in one and a clavicular fracture in one. At the most recent follow-up the median post-operative Constant-Murley score was 55, 6% adjusted for age, gender and dominance. A one-stage revision arthroplasty reduces the cost and duration of treatment. It is reliable in eradicating infection and good functional outcomes can be achieved

We have carried out a retrospective review of 11 Souter-Strathclyde primary total elbow arthroplasties in ten patients with osteoarthritis, over a period of nine years. The diagnosis was primary osteoarthritis in nine elbows and post-traumatic arthritis in two. The mean follow-up was 68 months (15 to 117). Although no patient was symptomatic, radiological review revealed evidence of loosening affecting three humeral and two ulnar components, one of which subsequently failed and was revised at 97 months. There were no dislocations, deep infections or mechanical failures. Complications included two superficial wound infections and two neurapraxias of the ulnar nerve which resolved. This study shows that the unlinked Souter-Strathclyde total elbow arthroplasty can be considered for patients with osteoarthritis and gives good symptomatic relief and improvement in function

Between 1990 and 1996 we performed 20 consecutive ulnohumeral arthroplasties for primary osteoarthritis of the elbow. The outcome was assessed using the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand Score (DASH) and the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) at a mean follow-up of 75 months (58 to 132). There were excellent or good results in 17 elbows (85%) using the DASH score and in 13 (65%) with the MEPS (correlation coefficient 0.79). The mean fixed flexion deformity had improved by 10° and the range of flexion by a mean of 20°. In 16 elbows (80%) the benefits of surgery had been maintained, and of 16 patients working at the time of operation, 12 (75%) had returned to the same job. There was no correlation between radiological recurrence of degenerative changes and the amount of fixed flexion deformity, the flexion arc, or the elbow scores

We present nine patients (five men and four women) who underwent surgical excision of clinically significant heterotopic ossification at the elbow. They also received perioperative radiation therapy using total doses between 600 and 1000 cGy. Five received fractionated radiotherapy, with two fractions of 500 cGy applied on the first two postoperative days, and the remaining four were irradiated with single doses of 600 and 700 cGy. After a mean period of observation of 7.7 months (6 to 13) none had radiological recurrence of heterotopic ossification and eight showed clinical improvement. Assessment of the functional outcome showed a mean improvement in the Morrey score from 33.3 to 84.5 points indicating a high therapeutic efficacy of prophylactic irradiation

We studied the stability of cemented all-polyethylene keeled glenoid components by radiostereometric analysis (RSA) in 16 shoulders which had received a total shoulder replacement. There were 14 women (one bilateral) and one man with a mean age of 64 years. The diagnosis was osteoarthritis in eight and rheumatoid arthritis in seven. Two of the shoulders were excluded from the RSA study because of loosening of the tantalum markers. Three tantalum markers were inserted in the glenoid socket, two in the coracoid process and two in the acromion. The polyethylene keeled glenoid component was marked with three to five tantalum markers. Conventional radiological and RSA examinations were carried out at five to seven days, at four months and at one and two years after operation. Radiolucent lines were found in all except three shoulders. Migration was most pronounced in the distal direction and exceeded 1 mm in four shoulders. In ten shoulders rotation exceeded 2° in one or more axes with retroversion/anteversion being most common. No correlation was found between migration and the presence of radiolucencies on conventional radiographs

We treated 43 patients (38 women and 5 men) with osteoarthritis of the basal joint of the thumb by non-cemented arthroplasty of the first carpometacarpal joint as described by Ledoux. The probability of a patient avoiding revision for 12 months was 62% and for 16 months 59%. The indications for revision were aseptic loosening in 83% and luxation in 17%. The surviving prostheses were reviewed clinically and radiologically at a mean follow-up of 25.3 months. Pain on loading, movement or at rest was seen in 75% of the patients. There was significant reduction in the range of movement of the trapeziometacarpal joint and of wrist strength. Radiological assessment showed significant subsidence of the stem in the first metacarpal and migration of the cup, with the stem loose in 15% and the cup in 46%. We no longer recommend this method of joint replacement

We performed a neurological and radiological study of the wrists of 58 patients with Hansen’s disease and 60 age-matched healthy control subjects. Significant differences (p < 0.01) were found between the groups in the carpal glenoid sector, the radial physeal widening index, the carpal ulnar distance, the carpal index and in distal radio-ulnar discrepancy. Comparison of the results in three subgroups of leprous patients with sensory impairment (group A-1), motor deficit (A-2) and no neurological impairment (A-3), showed significant differences (p < 0.01) between group A-1 and the other two. This suggests that in these patients the changes in the carpus and radiocarpal joint may be caused by neuropathic arthropathy of the wrist. Our findings are of particular interest since there are few reports of neuropathic arthropathy in non-weight-bearing joints

The incidence of loosening of a cemented glenoid componentin total shoulder arthroplasty, detected by means of radiolucent lines or positional shift of the component on true anteroposterior radiographs, has been reported to be between 0% and 44%. Radiolucent lines are, however, difficult to detect and to interpret because of the mobility of the shoulder girdle and the obliquity of the glenoid which hinder standardisation of radiographs. We examined radiolucencies around cemented glenoid components in 48 patients, with a mean follow-up of 5.3 years, and found progressive changes to be present predominantly at the inferior pole of the component. This may hold a clue for the mechanism of loosening of this implant. In five patients we performed an additional analysis of loosening of the glenoid component using digital roentgen stereophotogrammetric analysis (RSA). After three years, three of the five implants had loosened (migration 1.2 to 5.5 mm). In only one, with gross loosening, were the radiological signs consistent with the RSA findings. When traditional radiographs are used for assessment, the rate of early loosening is underestimated. We recommend that RSA be used for this

We carried out arthrodesis of the radiolunate joint in 46 wrists (38 patients) for pain and ulnar translation of the carpus because of rheumatoid (42) or psoriatic arthritis (4). At follow-up, three patients had died and in three (1 bilateral) an additional midcarpal arthrodesis had been undertaken. The remaining 32 patients (39 wrists) were evaluated after a mean of five years. The clinical results were good with a mean visual analogue score of 8.3 for pain, 7.2 for hand function and 9 for overall satisfaction. Except for palmar flexion, mobility was equal to or better than before operation. Radiologically, there was deterioration of the midcarpal joint with an increase in the Larsen score from 1.8 to 2.7 (p < 0.001), some decrease in carpal height and recurrence of carpal translation. Radiolunate arthrodesis gives good clinical results at five years although there is some deterioration radiologically

Lack of full extension of the elbow is a common abnormality in patients with achondroplasia. We studied 23 patients (41 elbows) clinically and radiologically. Extension of the elbow was assessed clinically and the angle of posterior bowing of the distal humerus was measured from lateral radiographs. There was limited extension of the elbow in 28 (68.3%) and the mean loss of extension was 13.1°. Posterior bowing of the humerus was seen in all elbows with a mean angle of 17.0°. There was a positive correlation between these two measurements. Posterior bowing greater than 20° caused a loss of full elbow extension. Posterior dislocation of the radial head was seen in nine elbows (22.0%). The mean loss of extension of the elbows was 28.7° which was significantly greater than that of these elbows in which the head was not dislocated (8.7°), although posterior bowing was not significantly different between these two groups (19.3° and 16.3°). Posterior bowing of the distal humerus is a principal cause of loss of extension of the elbow. Posterior dislocation of the radial head causes further limitation of movement in the more severely affected joints

Radiographs of the shoulders of 84 asymptomatic individuals aged between 40 and 83 years were evaluated to determine changes in 23 specific areas. Two fellowship-trained orthopaedic radiologists graded each area on a scale of 0 to II (normal 0, mild changes I, advanced changes II). Logistic regression analysis indicated age to be a significant predictor of change (p < 0.05) for sclerosis of the medial acromion and lateral clavicle, the presence of subchondral cysts in the acromion, formation of osteophytes at the inferior acromion and clavicle, and narrowing and degeneration of the acromioclavicular joint. Gender was not a significant predictor (p > 0.05) for radiological changes. Student’s t-test determined significance (p < 0.05) between age and the presence of medial acromial and lateral clavicular sclerosis, subchondral acromial cysts, inferior acromial and clavicular osteophytes, and degeneration of the acromioclavicular joint. Radiological analysis in conditions such as subacromial impingement, pathology of the rotator cuff, and acromioclavicular degeneration should be interpreted in the context of the symptoms and normal age-related changes

We performed 88 primary ball-and-socket arthroplasties of the trapeziometacarpal joint in 84 patients (69 women and 15 men) with a mean age of 61 years (37 to 81). Cemented de la Caffinière prostheses were implanted in 43 joints from 1988 to 1991 and 45 cementless Ledoux implants were used between 1992 and 1994. Of the 61 surviving prostheses still in situ, 51 were reviewed clinically and radiologically with a mean follow-up of 25 months for the Ledoux and 63 months for the de la Caffinière implant. The survival rate for the Ledoux prosthesis was 58.9% at 16 months and for the de la Caffinière implant 66.4% at 68 months. Loosening occurred in 15% of the Ledoux stems, in 46% of the Ledoux cups, in 24% of the de la Caffinière stems and in 28% of the de la Caffinière cups. Both prostheses behaved similarly, and it is clear that a constrained ball-and-socket prosthesis is not suitable for the trapeziometacarpal joint

Between 1993 and 1996, we undertook 35 Kudo 5 total elbow replacements in a consecutive series of 31 rheumatoid patients. A total of 25 patients (29 procedures) was evaluated at a mean follow-up of six years (5 to 7.5) using the Mayo Clinic performance index. In addition, all patients were assessed for loosening using standard anteroposterior and lateral radiographs. At review, 19 elbows (65%) had either no pain or mild pain, ten (35%) had moderate pain and none had severe pain. The mean arc of flexion/extension was 94° (35 to 130) and supination/pronation was 128° (30 to 165). A fracture of the medial epicondyle occurred during surgery in one patient. This was successfully treated with a single AO screw and a standard Kudo 5 implant was inserted. Postoperatively, there were no infections. One patient had a dislocation which was treated by closed reduction and five had neurapraxia of the ulnar nerve. Radiologically, there was no evidence of loosening of the humeral component, but two ulnar components had progressive radiolucent lines suggestive of loosening. Two other ulnar components had incomplete and non-progressive radiolucent lines. With definite radiological loosening as the endpoint, the probability of survival of the Kudo 5 prosthesis at five years using the Kaplan-Meier method was 89%

We report the results of a series of 59 unconstrained total arthroplasties of the elbow after a mean follow-up of 6.5 years (4 to 10). All the patients had rheumatoid arthritis. The indication for surgery was pain in all but one. Outcome was assessed by the Mayo Elbow Performance Index (MEPI). Of the 59 arthroplasties, two were lost to follow-up. Ten patients died, but as two of their arthroplasties were failures we included them in the results. The outcome in the remaining 49 was excellent in 26 (53%), good in 15 (31%), fair in one (2%) and poor or a failure in seven (14%). There was an improvement in the pain score (p < 0.001), movement (p < 0.001) and function (p < 0.001). Two patients developed instability, but neither required further surgery. There was a mean increase of 21° in flexion and of 7° in extension. The overall rate of complications was 33.9%. Lesions of the ulnar nerve, one of which did not recover, occurred in four patients, deep infection in two and stiffness in five. The rates of complications were similar to those in recent reports of other elbow arthroplasties. We carried out a radiological analysis of 39 arthroplasties which showed radiolucent lines around the humeral component in 22 and the ulnar component in 15. There were lower scores on the MEPI for those with radiolucent lines around the humeral component

Between 1978 and 1986, 59 patients received a GSB III elbow prosthesis, six of them in both elbows. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) was the underlying cause in 51 of the patients and post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) in eight. Of these, 24 patients (28 prostheses) have since died; two, both operated on bilaterally, had had their implants for more than ten years and had already been assessed for inclusion in the long-term follow-up. Two patients, each with one elbow prosthesis, have been lost to follow-up and three males who are still living (two with PTOA, one with juvenile RA) had their prosthesis removed before ten years had elapsed. The remaining 32 patients (28 RA, 4 PTOA) with 36 GSB III elbows were examined clinically and radiologically after a mean period of 13.5 years. Pain was considerably reduced in 91.6%. Mobility was increased by 37° in those with RA and by 67° in those with PTOA. There were three cases of aseptic loosening and three of deep infection. The main complication was disassembly of the prosthetic component in nine elbows (13.8%). This last group included two patients with postoperative fractures unrelated to the operative technique and one with neuropathic arthritis. Ulnar neuritis occurred in two patients. Since 87.7% of all the GSB III prostheses implanted in this period remained in situ, our results are comparable with those for hip and knee arthroplasty

Most brachial plexus palsies are due to trauma, often resulting from motorcycle accidents. When nerve repair and physiotherapy are unsuccessful, muscle transfer may be considered. Paralysis of the deltoid and supraspinatus muscles can be addressed by transfer of the trapezius. Between March 1994 and June 1997 we treated 38 patients with brachial plexus palsy by trapezius transfer and reviewed 31 of these (7 women, 24 men) after a mean follow-up of 23.8 months (12 to 39), reporting the clinical and radiological results and subjective assessment. The mean age of the patients was 29 years (18 to 46). The operations had been performed according to the method of Saha described in 1967, involving transfer of the acromion with the insertion of the trapezius to the proximal humerus, and immobilisation in an abduction support for six weeks. Rehabilitation started on the first postoperative day with active exercises for the elbow, hand and fingers, and electrical stimulation of the transferred trapezius. All 31 patients had improved function with a decrease in multidirectional instability of the shoulder. The average increase in active abduction was from 7.3° (0 to 45) to 39° (25 to 80) at the latest review. The mean forward flexion increased from 20° (0 to 85) to 44° (20 to 90). Twenty-nine of the 31 were satisfied with the improvement in stability and function. Trapezius transfer for brachial plexus palsy involving the shoulder improves function and stability with clear subjective benefits

Methods

Between 2005 and 2012, 50 patients (23 female, 27 male) with nonunion of the humeral shaft were included in this retrospective study. The mean age was 51.3 years (14 to 88). The patients had a mean of 1.5 prior operations (sd 1.2;1 to 8).

All patients were assessed according to a specific risk score in order to devise an optimal and individual therapy plan consistent with the Diamond Concept. In 32 cases (64%), a change in the osteosynthesis to an angular stable locking compression plate was performed. According to the individual risk an additional bone graft and/or bone morphogenetic protein-7 (BMP-7) were applied.

This study was performed to determine whether pure cancellous bone graft and Kirschner (K-) wire fixation were sufficient to achieve bony union and restore alignment in scaphoid nonunion. A total of 65 patients who underwent cancellous bone graft and K-wire fixation were included in this study. The series included 61 men and four women with a mean age of 34 years (15 to 72) and mean delay to surgery of 28.7 months (3 to 240). The patients were divided into an unstable group (A) and stable group (B) depending on the pre-operative radiographs. Unstable nonunion was defined as a lateral intrascaphoid angle > 45°, or a radiolunate angle > 10°. There were 34 cases in group A and 31 cases in group B. Bony union was achieved in 30 patients (88.2%) in group A, and in 26 (83.9%) in group B (p = 0.439). Comparison of the post-operative radiographs between the two groups showed no significant differences in lateral intrascaphoid angle (p = 0.657) and scaphoid length (p = 0.670) and height (p = 0.193). The radiolunate angle was significantly different (p = 0.020) but the mean value in both groups was < 10°. Comparison of the dorsiflexion and palmar flexion of movement of the wrist and the mean Mayo wrist score at the final clinical visit in each group showed no significant difference (p = 0.190, p = 0.587 and p = 0.265, respectively). Cancellous bone graft and K-wire fixation were effective in the treatment of stable and unstable scaphoid nonunion.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:809–14.

This study provides recommendations on the position of the implant in reverse shoulder replacement in order to minimise scapular notching and osteophyte formation. Radiographs from 151 patients who underwent primary reverse shoulder replacement with a single prosthesis were analysed at a mean follow-up of 28.3 months (24 to 44) for notching, osteophytes, the position of the glenoid baseplate, the overhang of the glenosphere, and the prosthesis scapular neck angle (PSNA).

A total of 20 patients (13.2%) had a notch (16 Grade 1 and four Grade 2) and 47 (31.1%) had an osteophyte. In patients without either notching or an osteophyte the baseplate was found to be positioned lower on the glenoid, with greater overhang of the glenosphere and a lower PSNA than those with notching and an osteophyte. Female patients had a higher rate of notching than males (13.3% vs 13.0%) but a lower rate of osteophyte formation (22.9% vs 50.0%), even though the baseplate was positioned significantly lower on the glenoid in females (p = 0.009) and each had a similar mean overhang of the glenosphere.

Based on these findings we make recommendations on the placement of the implant in both male and female patients to avoid notching and osteophyte formation.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:530–5.

Malunion is the most common complication of the distal radius with many modalities of treatment available for such a problem. The use of bone grafting after an osteotomy is still recommended by most authors. We hypothesised that bone grafting is not required; fixing the corrected construct with a volar locked plate helps maintain the alignment, while metaphyseal defect fills by itself. Prospectively, we performed the procedure on 30 malunited dorsally-angulated radii using fixed angle volar locked plates without bone grafting. At the final follow-up, 22 wrists were available. Radiological evidence of union, correction of the deformity, clinical and functional improvement was achieved in all cases. Without the use of bone grafting, corrective open wedge osteotomy fixed by a volar locked plate provides a high rate of union and satisfactory functional outcomes.

We assessed the short- to mid-term survival of metallic press-fit radial head prostheses in patients with radial head fractures and acute traumatic instability of the elbow.

The medical records of 42 patients (16 males, 26 females) with a mean age of 56 years (23 to 85) with acute unstable elbow injuries, including a fracture of the radial head requiring metallic replacement of the radial head, were reviewed retrospectively. Survival of the prosthesis was assessed from the radiographs of 37 patients after a mean follow-up of 50 months (12 to 107). The functional results of 31 patients were assessed using range-of-movement, Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score and the RAND 36-item health survey.

At the most recent follow-up 25 prostheses were still well fixed, nine had been removed because of loosening, and three remained implanted but were loose. The mean time from implantation to loosening was 11 months (2 to 24). Radiolucent lines that developed around the prosthesis before removal were mild in three patients, moderate in one and severe in five. Range of movement parameters and mass grip strength were significantly lower in the affected elbow than in the unaffected side. The mean MEPS score was 86 (40 to 100) and the mean DASH score was 23 (0 to 81). According to RAND-36 scores, patients had more pain and lower physical function scores than normal population values.

Loosening of press-fit radial head prostheses is common, occurs early, often leads to severe osteolysis of the proximal radius, and commonly requires removal of the prosthesis.

Surgical repair of posterosuperior rotator cuff tears has a poorer outcome and a higher rate of failure compared with repairs of supraspinatus tears. In this prospective cohort study 28 consecutive patients with an irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tear after failed conservative or surgical treatment underwent teres major tendon transfer. Their mean age was 60 years (48 to 71) and the mean follow-up was 25 months (12 to 80). The mean active abduction improved from 79° (0° to 150°) pre-operatively to 105° (20° to 180°) post-operatively (p = 0.011). The mean active external rotation in 90° abduction improved from 25° (0° to 70°) pre-operatively to 55° (0° to 90°) post-operatively (p < 0.001). The mean Constant score improved from 43 (18 to 78) pre-operatively to 65 (30 to 86) post-operatively (p < 0.001). The median post-operative VAS (0 to 100) for pain decreased from 63 (0 to 96) pre-operatively to 5 (0 to 56) post-operatively (p < 0.001).

In conclusion, teres major transfer effectively restores function and relieves pain in patients with irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears and leads to an overall clinical improvement in a relatively young and active patient group with limited treatment options.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:523–9.

The sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) is a pivotal articulation in the linked system of the upper limb girdle, providing load-bearing in compression while resisting displacement in tension or distraction at the manubrium sterni. The SCJ and acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) both have a small surface area of contact protected by an intra-articular fibrocartilaginous disc and are supported by strong extrinsic and intrinsic capsular ligaments. The function of load-sharing in the upper limb by bulky periscapular and thoracobrachial muscles is extremely important to the longevity of both joints. Ligamentous and capsular laxity changes with age, exposing both joints to greater strain, which may explain the rising incidence of arthritis in both with age. The incidence of arthritis in the SCJ is less than that in the ACJ, suggesting that the extrinsic ligaments of the SCJ provide greater stability than the coracoclavicular ligaments of the ACJ.

Instability of the SCJ is rare and can be difficult to distinguish from medial clavicular physeal or metaphyseal fracture-separation: cross-sectional imaging is often required. The distinction is important because the treatment options and outcomes of treatment are dissimilar, whereas the treatment and outcomes of ACJ separation and fracture of the lateral clavicle can be similar. Proper recognition and treatment of traumatic instability is vital as these injuries may be life-threatening. Instability of the SCJ does not always require surgical intervention. An accurate diagnosis is required before surgery can be considered, and we recommend the use of the Stanmore instability triangle. Most poor outcomes result from a failure to recognise the underlying pathology.

There is a natural reluctance for orthopaedic surgeons to operate in this area owing to unfamiliarity with, and the close proximity of, the related vascular structures, but the interposed sternohyoid and sternothyroid muscles are rarely injured and provide a clear boundary to the medial retroclavicular space, as well as an anatomical barrier to unsafe intervention.

This review presents current concepts of instability of the SCJ, describes the relevant surgical anatomy, provides a framework for diagnosis and management, including physiotherapy, and discusses the technical challenges of operative intervention.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:721–31.

We investigated the clinical response to arthroscopic synovectomy in patients with undifferentiated chronic monoarthritis (UCMA) of the wrist. Arthroscopic synovectomy was performed on 20 wrists in 20 patients with UCMA of the wrist who had not responded to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The mean duration of symptoms at the time of surgery was 4.3 months (3 to 7) and the mean follow-up was 51.8 months (24 to 94). Inflamed synovium was completely removed from the radiocarpal, midcarpal and distal radioulnar joints using more portals than normal. After surgery, nine patients had early remission of synovitis and 11 with uncontrolled synovitis received antirheumatic medication. Overall, there was significant improvement in terms of pain relief, range of movement and Mayo score. Radiological deterioration was seen in five patients who were diagnosed as having rheumatoid arthritis during the follow-up period. Lymphoid follicles and severe lymphocyte infiltration were seen more often in synovial biopsies from patients with uncontrolled synovitis.

These results suggest that arthroscopic synovectomy provides pain relief and functional improvement, and allows rapid resolution of synovitis in about half of patients with UCMA of the wrist.

A total of 12 epileptic patients (14 shoulders) with recurrent seizures and anterior dislocations of the shoulder underwent a Latarjet procedure and were reviewed at a mean of 8.3 years (1 to 20) post-operatively. Mean forward flexion decreased from 165° (100° to 180°) to 160° (90° to 180°) (p = 0.5) and mean external rotation from 54° (10° to 90°) to 43° (5° to 75°) (p = 0.058). The mean Rowe score was 76 (35 to 100) at the final follow-up. Radiologically, all shoulders showed a glenoid-rim defect and Hill-Sachs lesions pre-operatively. Osteo-arthritic changes of the glenohumeral joint were observed in five shoulders (36%) pre-operatively and in eight shoulders (57%) post-operatively. Re-dislocation during a seizure occurred in six shoulders (43%). Five of these patients underwent revision surgery using a bone buttress from the iliac crest and two of these patients re-dislocated due to a new seizure.

Due to the unacceptably high rate of re-dislocation after surgery in these patients, the most important means of reducing the incidence of further dislocation is the medical management of the seizures. The Latarjet procedure should be reserved for the well-controlled patient with epilepsy who has recurrent anterior dislocation of the shoulder during activities of daily living.

We investigated the incidence of and risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE) following surgery of the shoulder and elbow and assessed the role of thromboprophylaxis in upper limb surgery. All papers describing VTE after shoulder and elbow surgery published in the English language literature before 31 March 2012 were reviewed. A total of 14 papers were available for analysis, most of which were retrospective studies and case series. The incidence of VTE was 0.038% from 92 440 shoulder arthroscopic procedures, 0.52% from 42 261 shoulder replacements, and 0.64% from 4833 procedures for fractures of the proximal humerus (open reduction and internal fixation or hemiarthroplasty). The incidence following replacement of the elbow was 0.26% from 2701 procedures. Diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis and ischaemic heart disease were identified as the major risk factors.

The evidence that exists on thromboprophylaxis is based on level III and IV studies, and we therefore cannot make any recommendations on prophylaxis based on the current evidence. It seems reasonable to adopt a multimodal approach that involves all patients receiving mechanical prophylaxis, with chemical prophylaxis reserved for those who are at high risk for VTE.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:70–4.

Scapulothoracic fusion (STF) for painful winging of the scapula in neuromuscular disorders can provide effective pain relief and functional improvement, but there is little information comparing outcomes between patients with dystrophic and non-dystrophic conditions. We performed a retrospective review of 42 STFs in 34 patients with dystrophic and non-dystrophic conditions using a multifilament trans-scapular, subcostal cable technique supported by a dorsal one-third semi-tubular plate. There were 16 males and 18 females with a mean age of 30 years (15 to 75) and a mean follow-up of 5.0 years (2.0 to 10.6). The mean Oxford shoulder score improved from 20 (4 to 39) to 31 (4 to 48). Patients with non-dystrophic conditions had lower overall functional scores but achieved greater improvements following STF. The mean active forward elevation increased from 59° (20° to 90°) to 97° (30° to 150°), and abduction from 51° (10° to 90°) to 83° (30° to 130°) with a greater range of movement achieved in the dystrophic group. Revision fusion for nonunion was undertaken in five patients at a mean time of 17 months (7 to 31) and two required revision for fracture. There were three pneumothoraces, two rib fractures, three pleural effusions and six nonunions. The main risk factors for nonunion were smoking, age and previous shoulder girdle surgery.

STF is a salvage procedure that can provide good patient satisfaction in 82% of patients with both dystrophic and non-dystrophic pathologies, but there was a relatively high failure rate (26%) when poor outcomes were analysed. Overall function was better in patients with dystrophic conditions which correlated with better range of movement; however, patients with non-dystrophic conditions achieved greater functional improvement.

We report the effectiveness of revision of total elbow replacement by re-cementing. Between 1982 and 2004, 53 elbows in 52 patients were treated with re-cementing of a total elbow replacement into part or all of the existing cement mantle or into the debrided host-bone interface, without the use of structural bone augmentation or a custom prosthesis. The original implant revision was still in situ and functional in 42 of 53 elbows (79%) at a mean of 94.5 months (26 to 266) after surgery. In 31 of these 42 elbows (74%) the Mayo Elbow Performance Score was good or excellent. Overall, of the 53 elbows, 18 (34%) required re-operation, ten (19%) for loosening. A classification system was developed to identify those not suitable for revision by this technique, and using this we have showed that successful re-implantation is statistically correlated to properly addressing the bone deficiency for both the humeral (p = 0.005) and the ulnar (p = 0.039) components.

Lateral clavicular physeal injuries in adolescents are frequently misinterpreted as acromioclavicular dislocations. There are currently no clear guidelines for the management of these relatively rare injuries. Non-operative treatment can result in a cosmetic deformity, warranting resection of the non-remodelled original lateral clavicle. However, fixation with Kirschner (K)-wires may be associated with infection and/or prominent metalwork. We report our experience with a small series of such cases.

Between October 2008 and October 2011 five patients with lateral clavicular physeal fractures (types III, IV and V) presented to our unit. There were four boys and one girl with a mean age of 12.8 years (9 to 14). Four fractures were significantly displaced and treated operatively using a tension band suture technique. One grade III fracture was treated conservatively. The mean follow-up was 26 months (6 to 42).

All patients made an uncomplicated recovery. The mean time to discharge was three months. The QuickDASH score at follow-up was 0 for each patient. No patient developed subsequent growth disturbances.

We advocate the surgical treatment of significantly displaced Grade IV and V fractures to avoid cosmetic deformity. A tension band suture technique avoids the problems of retained metalwork and the need for a secondary procedure. Excellent clinical and radiological results were seen in all our patients.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:664–7.

The aim of this study was to compare a third-generation cementing procedure for glenoid components with a new technique for cement pressurisation. In 20 pairs of scapulae, 20 keeled and 20 pegged glenoid components were implanted using either a third-generation cementing technique (group 1) or a new pressuriser (group 2). Cement penetration was measured by three-dimensional (3D) analysis of micro-CT scans. The mean 3D depth of penetration of the cement was significantly greater in group 2 (p < 0.001). The mean thickness of the cement mantle for keeled glenoids was 2.50 mm (2.0 to 3.3) in group 1 and 5.18 mm (4.4 to 6.1) in group 2, and for pegged glenoids it was 1.72 mm (0.9 to 2.3) in group 1 and 5.63 mm (3.6 to 6.4) in group 2. A cement mantle < 2 mm was detected less frequently in group 2 (p < 0.001). Using the cement pressuriser the proportion of cement mantles < 2 mm was significantly reduced compared with the third-generation cementing technique.

Instability after arthroplasty of the shoulder is difficult to correct surgically. Soft-tissue procedures and revision surgery using unconstrained anatomical components are associated with a high rate of failure. The purpose of this study was to determine the results of revision of an unstable anatomical shoulder arthroplasty to a reverse design prosthesis. Between 2004 and 2007, 33 unstable anatomical shoulder arthroplasties were revised to a reverse design. The mean age of the patients was 71 years (53 to 86) and their mean follow-up was 42 months (25 to 71). The mean time to revision was 26 months (4 to 164). Pain scores improved significantly (pre-operative visual analogue scale (VAS) of 7.2 (sd 1.6); most recent VAS 2.2 (sd 1.9); p = 0.001). There was a statistically significant increase in mean active forward elevation from 40.2° (sd 27.3) to 97.0° (sd 36.2) (p = 0.001). There was no significant difference in internal (p = 0.93) or external rotation (p = 0.40). Radiological findings included notching in five shoulders (15%) and heterotopic ossification of the inferior capsular region in three (9%). At the last follow-up 31 shoulders (94%) were stable. The remaining two shoulders dislocated at 2.5 weeks and three months post-operatively, respectively. According to the Neer rating system, there were 13 excellent (40%), ten satisfactory (30%) and ten unsatisfactory results (30%). Revision of hemiarthroplasty or anatomical total shoulder replacement for instability using a reverse design prosthesis gives good short-term results.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:668–72.

There have been only a few small studies of patients with an infected shoulder replacement treated with a single-stage exchange procedure. We retrospectively reviewed 35 patients (19 men and 16 women) with a peri-prosthetic infection of the shoulder who were treated in this way. A total of 26 were available for clinical examination; three had died, two were lost to follow-up and four patients had undergone revision surgery. The mean follow-up time was 4.7 years (1.1 to 13.25), with an infection-free survival of 94%.

The organisms most commonly isolated intra-operatively were Staphylococcus epidermidis and Propionibacterium acnes; two patients developed a recurrent infection. Three different types of prosthesis were used: a hemiarthroplasty, a hemiarthroplasty with a bipolar head and reverse prosthesis. The mean Constant-Murley score at final follow-up was 43.3 (14 to 90) for patients with a hemiarthroplasty, 56 (40 to 88) for those with a hemiarthroplasty with a bipolar head and 61 (7 to 90) for those with a reverse prosthesis. The mean hospital stay was 10.6 days (5 to 29).

Single-stage exchange is a successful and practical treatment for patients with peri-prosthetic infection of the shoulder.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:391–5.

Total shoulder replacement is a successful procedure for degenerative or some inflammatory diseases of the shoulder. However, fixation of the glenoid seems to be the main weakness with a high rate of loosening. The results using all-polyethylene components have been better than those using metal-backed components. We describe our experience with 35 consecutive total shoulder replacements using a new metal-backed glenoid component with a mean follow-up of 75.4 months (48 to 154).

Our implant differs from others because of its mechanism of fixation. It has a convex metal-backed bone interface and the main stabilising factor is a large hollow central peg. The patients were evaulated with standard radiographs and with the Constant Score, the Simple Shoulder Test and a visual analogue scale. All the scores improved and there was no loosening, no polyethylene-glenoid disassembly and no other implant-related complications.

We conclude that a metal-backed glenoid component is a good option in total shoulder replacement with no worse results than of those using a cemented all-polyethylene prosthesis.

Frozen shoulder is commonly encountered in general orthopaedic practice. It may arise spontaneously without an obvious predisposing cause, or be associated with a variety of local or systemic disorders. Diagnosis is based upon the recognition of the characteristic features of the pain, and selective limitation of passive external rotation. The macroscopic and histological features of the capsular contracture are well-defined, but the underlying pathological processes remain poorly understood. It may cause protracted disability, and imposes a considerable burden on health service resources. Most patients are still managed by physiotherapy in primary care, and only the more refractory cases are referred for specialist intervention. Targeted therapy is not possible and treatment remains predominantly symptomatic. However, over the last ten years, more active interventions that may shorten the clinical course, such as capsular distension arthrography and arthroscopic capsular release, have become more popular.

This review describes the clinical and pathological features of frozen shoulder. We also outline the current treatment options, review the published results and present our own treatment algorithm.

There is little information available at present regarding the mechanisms of failure of modern metallic radial head implants. Between 1998 and 2008, 44 consecutive patients (47 elbows) underwent removal of a failed metallic radial head replacement. In 13 patients (13 elbows) the initial operation had been undertaken within one week of a fracture of the radial head, at one to six weeks in seven patients (seven elbows) and more than six weeks (mean of 2.5 years (2 to 65 months)) in 22 patients (25 elbows). In the remaining two elbows the replacement was inserted for non-traumatic reasons. The most common indication for further surgery was painful loosening (31 elbows). Revision was undertaken for stiffness in 18 elbows, instability in nine, and deep infection in two. There were signs of over-lengthening of the radius in 11 elbows. Degenerative changes were found in all but one. Only three loose implants had been fixed with cement. Instability was not identified in any of the bipolar implants.

Bone loss involving articular surface is a challenging problem faced by the orthopaedic surgeon. In the hand and wrist, there are articular defects that are amenable to autograft reconstruction when primary fixation is not possible. In this article, the surgical techniques and clinical outcomes of articular reconstructions in the hand and wrist using non-vascularised osteochondral autografts are reviewed.

This is a retrospective review of the results of the Acclaim total elbow replacement in 11 older patients aged ≥ 65 years with primary osteoarthritis of the elbow, with a mean follow-up of 57.6 months (30 to 86.4).

Significant reductions in pain and improvement in range of movement and function were recorded. Radiological review revealed two patients with 1 mm lucencies in a single zone, and one patient with 1 mm lucencies in two zones. No components required revision. There were no deep infections, dislocations or mechanical failures. Complications included one intra-operative medial condylar fracture and one post-operative transient ulnar neuropathy, which resolved.

This study demonstrates that the Acclaim prosthesis provides good symptomatic relief and improvement of function in patients with primary osteoarthritis, with low rates of loosening or other complications. This prosthesis can therefore be considered for patients aged ≥ 65 years with primary osteoarthritis of the elbow.

We systematically reviewed all the evidence published in the English language on proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) replacement, to determine its effectiveness on the function of the hand and the associated post-operative complications.

Original studies were selected if they reported clinical outcome with a minimum of one year’s follow-up. Quality was assessed using the Cowley systematic review criteria modified for finger-joint replacements. Of 319 articles identified, only five were adequately reported according to our quality criteria; there were no randomised controlled trials. PIPJ replacements had a substantial effect size on hand pain of -23.2 (95% confidence interval (CI) -27.3 to -19.1) and grip strength 1.2 (95% CI -10.7 to 13.1), and a small effect on range of movement 0.2 (95% CI -0.4 to 0.8). A dorsal approach was most successful. Post-operative loosening occurred in 10% (95% CI 3 to 30) of ceramic and 12.5% (95% CI 7 to 21) of pyrocarbon replacements. Post-operative complications occurred in 27.8% (95% CI 20 to 37).

We conclude that the effectiveness of PIPJ replacement has not been established. Small observational case studies and short-term follow-up, together with insufficient reporting of patient data, functional outcomes and complications, limit the value of current evidence.

We recommend that a defined core set of patients, surgical and outcome data for this intervention be routinely and systematically collected within the framework of a joint registry.

We have investigated the mid-term outcome of total shoulder replacement using a keeled cemented glenoid component and a modern cementing technique with regard to the causes of failure and loosening of the components.

Between 1997 and 2003 we performed 96 total shoulder replacements on 88 patients, 24 men and 64 women with a mean age of 69.7 years (31 to 82). The minimum follow-up was five years and at the time of review 87 shoulders (77 patients) were examined at a mean follow-up of 89.1 months (60 to 127). Cumulative survival curves were generated with re-operations (accomplished and planned), survivorship of the proshesis, loosening of the glenoid (defined as tilt > 5° or subsidence > 5 mm), the presence of radiolucent lines and a Constant score of < 30 as the endpoints.

There were two re-operations not involving revision of the implants and the survival rate of the prosthesis was 100.0% for the follow-up period, with an absolute Constant score of > 30 as the endpoint the survival rate was 98%. Radiological glenoid loosening was 9% after five years, and 33% after nine years. There was an incidence of 8% of radiolucent lines in more than three of six zones in the immediate post-operative period, of 37.0% after the first year which increased to 87.0% after nine years. There was no correlation between the score of Boileau and the total Constant score at the latest follow-up, but there was correlation between glenoid loosening and pain (p = 0.001).

We found that total shoulder replacement had an excellent mid-term survivorship and clinical outcome. The surgical and cementing techniques were related to the decrease in radiolucent lines around the glenoid compared with earlier studies. One concern, however, was the fact that radiolucent lines increased over time and there was a rate of glenoid loosening of 9% after five years and 33% after nine years. This suggests that the design of the glenoid component, and the implantation and cementing techniques may need further improvement.

Objectives

Local corticosteroid infiltration is a common practice of treatment for lateral epicondylitis. In recent studies no statistically significant or clinically relevant results in favour of corticosteroid injections were found. The injection of autologous blood has been reported to be effective for both intermediate and long-term outcomes. It is hypothesised that blood contains growth factors, which induce the healing cascade.

Dislocation of the shoulder may occur during seizures in epileptics and other patients who have convulsions. Following the initial injury, recurrent instability is common owing to a tendency to develop large bony abnormalities of the humeral head and glenoid and a susceptibility to further seizures. Assessment is difficult and diagnosis may be missed, resulting in chronic locked dislocations with protracted morbidity. Many patients have medical comorbidities, and successful treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach addressing the underlying seizure disorder in addition to the shoulder pathology. The use of bony augmentation procedures may have improved the outcomes after surgical intervention, but currently there is no evidence-based consensus to guide treatment. This review outlines the epidemiology and pathoanatomy of seizure-related instability, summarising the currently-favoured options for treatment, and their results.

Between 1976 and 2004, 38 revision arthroplasties (35 patients) were performed for aseptic loosening of the humeral component. The mean interval from primary arthroplasty to revision was 7.1 years (0.4 to 16.6). A total of 35 shoulders (32 patients) were available for review at a mean follow-up of seven years (2 to 19.3).

Pre-operatively, 34 patients (97%) had moderate or severe pain; at final follow-up, 29 (83%) had no or only mild pain (p < 0.0001). The mean active abduction improved from 88° to 107° (p < 0.01); and the mean external rotation from 37° to 46° (p = 0.27). Excellent or satisfactory results were achieved in 25 patients (71%) according to the modified Neer rating system. Humeral components were cemented in 29, with ingrowth implants used in nine cases. There were 19 of standard length and 17 were longer (two were custom replacements and are not included). Bone grafting was required for defects in 11 humeri. Only two glenoid components were left unrevised. Intra-operative complications included cement extrusion in eight cases, fracture of the shaft of the humerus is two and of the tuberosity in four. There were four re-operations, one for recurrent humeral loosening, with 89% survival free of re-operations at ten years.

Revision surgery for aseptic loosening of the humeral component provides reliable pain relief and modest improvement of movement, although there is a substantial risk of intra-operative complications. Revision to a total shoulder replacement gives better results than to a hemiarthroplasty.

We describe the clinical outcome of a technique of surgical augmentation of chronic massive tears of the rotator cuff using a polyester ligament (Dacron) in 21 symptomatic patients (14 men, seven women) with a mean age of 66.5 years (55.0 to 85.0). All patients had MRI and arthroscopic evidence of chronic massive tears. The clinical outcome was assessed using the Constant and Murley and patient satisfaction scores at a mean follow-up of 36 months (30 to 46).

The polyester ligament (500 mm × 10 mm) was passed into the joint via the portal of Neviaser, medial to the tear through healthy cuff. The two ends of the ligament holding the cuff were passed through tunnels made in the proximal humerus at the footprint of the insertion of the cuff. The ligament was tied with a triple knot over the humeral cortex.

All the patients remained free from pain (p < 0.001) with improvement in function (p < 0.001) and range of movement (p < 0.001). The mean pre-operative and post-operative Constant scores were 46.7 (39.0 to 61.0) and 85.4 (52.0 to 96.0), respectively (p < 0.001). The mean patient satisfaction score was 90%. There were two failures, one due to a ruptured ligament after one year and the other due to deep-seated infection. The MR scan at the final follow-up confirmed intact and thickened bands in 15 of 17 patients.

This technique of augmentation gives consistent relief from pain with improved shoulder movement in patients with symptomatic massive tears of the rotator cuff.

The zona conoidea comprises the area of the lateral trochlear ridge of the humerus. The purpose of this study is to reintroduce this term ‘zona conoidea’ to the discussion of the human elbow and to investigate its significance in the development of osteoarthritis of the elbow.

The upper extremities of 12 cadavers were prepared. With the forearm in neutral, pronation and supination, the distance between the bevel of the radial head and zona conoidea was inspected. A total of 12 healthy volunteers had a CT scan. The distance between the zona conoidea and the bevelled rim of the radial head was measured in these positions.

In the anatomical specimens, early osteo-arthritic changes were identified in the posteromedial bevelled rim of the radial head, and the corresponding zona conoidea in supination. Measurement in the CT study showed that in full supination, the distance between the bevel of the radial head and the zona conoidea was at a minimum.

This study suggests that the significant contact between the bevel of the radial head and the zona conoidea in supination is associated with the initiation of osteoarthritis of the elbow in this area.

We reviewed the outcome of 28 patients who had been treated using the Aequalis fracture prosthesis for an acute fracture of the proximal humerus at a mean follow-up of 39.3 months (24 to 63). The mean age of the patients at the time of the fracture was 66.3 years (38 to 80). The mean Constant score was 68.2 (37 to 84) for the operated shoulder, which represented 89.5% of the mean score for the uninjured side (p < 0.001). The quality of the reconstruction as shown on the immediate post-operative radiographs was categorised into three types, anatomical, acceptable, and unacceptable, depending on the position of the tuberosities relative to the prosthetic head and the humeral shaft. Anatomical reconstruction was associated with a higher mean Constant score as well as higher mean values of anterior forward elevation, abduction and external rotation than the other types, but the differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.231).

A total of 18 patients had active anterior elevation ≥150°. Their mean active abduction and external rotation were 163.6° and 31.3°, respectively. In seven of the 28 patients, the mean active anterior elevation, abduction and external rotation were 130.7°, 129.2° and 22.8°, respectively. In all, 12 patients were very satisfied with the results, 12 were satisfied, two were dissatisfied and two were disappointed; 26 reported no or only mild pain while only two had moderate pain. In five patients proximal migration of the humeral head was shown on the anteroposterior radiographs of the shoulder. No evidence of loosening was found in any prosthesis.

In light of the growing number of elderly osteopenic patients with distal humeral fractures, we discuss the history of their management and current trends. Under most circumstances operative fixation and early mobilisation is the treatment of choice, as it gives the best results. The relative indications for and results of total elbow replacement versus internal fixation are discussed.

Between September 1993 and September 1996, we performed 34 Kudo 5 total elbow replacements in 31 rheumatoid patients. All 22 surviving patients were reviewed at a mean of 11.9 years (10 to 14). Their mean age was 56 years (37 to 78) at the time of operation. All had Larsen grade IV or V rheumatoid changes on X-ray. Nine (three bilateral replacements and six unilateral) had died from unrelated causes. One who had died before ten years underwent revision for dislocation.

Of the 22 total elbow replacements reviewed six had required revision, four for aseptic loosening (one humeral and three ulnar) and two for infection. Post-operatively, one patient had neuropraxia of the ulnar nerve and one of the radial nerve. Two patients had valgus tilting of the ulnar component.

With revision as the endpoint, the mean survival time for the prosthesis was 11.3 years (95% confidence interval (10 to 13) and the estimated survival of the prosthesis at 12 years according to Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was 74% (95% confidence interval 0.53 to 0.91).

Of the 16 surviving implants, ten were free from pain, four had mild pain and two moderate. The mean arc of flexion/extension of the elbow was 106° (65° to 130°) with pronation/supination of 90° (30° to 150°) with the joint at 90° of flexion. The mean Mayo elbow performance score was 82 (60 to 100) with five excellent, ten good and one fair result.

Good long-term results can be expected using the Kudo 5 total elbow replacement in patients with rheumatoid disease, with a low incidence of loosening of the components.

We have investigated the outcome of arthroscopic revision surgery for recurrent instability of the shoulder after failed primary anterior stabilisation. We identified 40 patients with failed primary open or arthroscopic anterior stabilisation of the shoulder who had been treated by revision arthroscopic capsulolabral reconstruction and followed up for a mean of 36 months (12 to 87). There were 34 men and six women with a mean age of 33.1 years (15 to 48). Details of the patients, the technique of the primary procedure, the operative findings at revision and the clinical outcome were evaluated by reviewing the medical records, physical examination and the use of the Western Ontario shoulder instability index score, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score and the health status questionnaire 12.

Recurrent instability persisted in four patients after the revision arthroscopic procedure. At the final follow-up, the mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score was 81.1 (17.5 to 99.5) and the mean Western Ontario shoulder instability index score was 68.2 (20 to 98.2). Quality-of-life scoring showed good to excellent results in most patients.

Arthroscopic revision capsulolabral reconstruction can provide a satisfactory outcome in selected patients for recurrent instability of the shoulder provided that no large Hill-Sachs lesion is present.