Autologous osteochondral grafting has demonstrated positive outcomes for treating articular cartilage defects by replacing the damaged region with a cylindrical graft consisting of bone with a layer of cartilage, taken from a non-loadbearing region of the knee. Despite positive clinical use, factors that cause graft subsidence or poor integration are relatively unknown. The aim of this study was to develop finite element (FE) models of osteochondral grafts within a tibiofemoral joint and to investigate parameters affecting osteochondral graft stability. Initial experimental tests on cadaveric femurs were performed to calibrate the bone properties and graft-bone frictional forces for use in corresponding FE models, generated from µCT scan data. The effects of cartilage defects and osteochondral graft repair were measured by examining contact pressure changes using in vitro tests on a single cadaveric human tibiofemoral joint. Six defects were created in the femoral condyles which were subsequently treated with osteochondral autografts or metal pins. Matching µCT scan-based FE models were created, and the contact patches were compared. Sensitivity to graft bone properties was investigated. The bone material properties and graft-bone frictional forces were successfully calibrated from the initial tests with good resulting levels of agreement (CCC=0.87). The tibiofemoral joint experiment provided a range of cases to model. These cases were well captured experimentally and represented accurately in the FE models. Graft properties relative to host bone had large effects on immediate graft stability despite limited changes to resultant cartilage contact pressure. Model confidence was built through extensive validation and sensitivity testing, and demonstrated that specimen-specific properties were required to accurately represent graft behaviour. The results indicate that graft bone properties affect the immediate stability, which is important for the selection of allografts and design of future synthetic grafts. Supported by the EPSRC-EP/P001076.Acknowledgements
The aim of this work was to develop a novel, accessible and low-cost method, which is sufficient to measure changes in meniscal position in a whole-knee joint model performing dynamic motion in a knee simulator. An optical tracking method using motion markers, MATLAB (MATLAB, The MathWorks Inc.) and a miniature camera system (Raspberry Pi, UK) was developed. Method feasibility was assessed on porcine whole joint knee samples (n = 4) dissected and cemented to be used in the simulator (1). Markers were placed on three regions (medial, posterior, anterior) of the medial meniscus with corresponding reference markers on the tibial plateau, so the relative meniscal position could be calculated. The Leeds high kinematics gait profile scaled to the parameters of a pig (1, 2) was driven in displacement control at 0.5 Hz. Videos were recorded at cycle-3 and cycle-50. Conditions tested were the capsule retained (intact), capsule removed and a medial posterior root tear. Mean relative displacement values were taken at time-points relating to the peaks of the axial force and flexion-extension gait inputs, as well as the range between the maximum and minimum values. A one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey post hoc analysis were used to assess differences (p = 0.05). The method was able to measure relative meniscal displacement for all three meniscal regions. The medial region showed the greatest difference between the conditions. A significant increase (p < 0.05) for the root tear condition was found at 0.28s and 0.90s (axial load peaks) during cycle-3. Mean relative displacement for the root tear condition decreased by 0.29 mm between cycle-3 and cycle-50 at the 0.28s time-point. No statistically significant differences were found when ranges were compared at cycle-3 and cycle-50. The method was sensitive to measure a substantial difference in medial-lateral relative displacement between an intact and a torn state. Meniscus extrusion was detected for the root tear condition throughout test duration. Further work will progress onto human specimens and apply an intervention condition.
Cam-type femoroacetabular impingement is caused by bone excess on the femoral neck abutting the acetabular rim. This can cause cartilage and labral damage due to increased contact pressure as the cam moves into the acetabulum. However, the damage mechanism and the influence of individual mechanical factors (such as sliding distance) are poorly understood. The aim of this study was to identify the cam sliding distance during impingement for different activities in the hip joint. Motion data for 12 different motion activities from 18 subjects, were applied to a hip shape model (selected as most likely to cause damage, anteriorly positioned with a maximum alpha angle of 80°). The model comprised of a pointwise representation of the acetabular rim and points on the femoral head and neck where the shape deviated from a sphere (software:Matlab). The movement of each femoral point was tracked in 3D while an activity motion was applied, and impingement recorded when overlap between a cam point and the acetabular rim occurred. Sliding distance was recorded during impingement for each relevant femoral point. Angular sliding distances varied for different activities. The highest mean (±SD) sliding distance was for leg-crossing (42.62±17.96mm) and lowest the trailing hip in golf swing (2.17±1.11mm). The high standard deviation in the leg crossing sliding distances, indicates subjects may perform this activity in a different manner. This study quantified sliding distance during cam impingement for different activities. This is an important parameter for determining how much the hip moves during activities that may cause damage and will provide information for future experimental studies.
Variations in component positioning of total hip replacements can lead to edge loading of the liner, and potentially affect device longevity. These effects are evaluated using ISO 14242:4 edge loading test results in a dynamic system. Mediolateral translation of one of the components during testing is caused by a compressed spring, and therefore the kinematics will depend on the spring stiffness and damping coefficient, and the mass of the translating component and fixture. This study aims to describe the sensitivity of the liner plastic strain to these variables, to better understand how tests using different simulator designs might produce different amounts of liner rim deformation. A dynamic explicit deformable finite element model with 36mm Pinnacle metal-on-polyethylene bearing geometry (DePuy Synthes, Leeds, UK) was used with material properties for conventional UHMWPE. Setup was 65° clinical inclination, 4mm mismatch, 70N swing phase load, and 100N/mm spring. Fixture mass was varied from 0.5-5kg, spring damping coefficient was varied from 0-2Ns/mm. They were changed independently, and in combination. Maximum separation values were relatively insensitive to changes in the mass, damping coefficient, or both. The sensitivity of peak plastic strain, to this range of inputs, was similar to changing the swing phase load from 70N to approximately 150N – 200N. Increasing the fixture mass and/or damping coefficient increased the peak plastic strain, with values from 0.15-0.19. Liner plastic deformation was sensitive to the spring damping and fixture mass, which may explain some of the differences in fatigue and deformation results in UHMWPE liners tested on different machines or with modified fixtures. These values should be described when reporting the results of ISO14242:4 testing. Acknowledgements Funded by EPSRC grant EP/N02480X/1; CAD supplied by DePuy Synthes.
The Exeter™ V40 cemented polished tapered stem system has demonstrated excellent long-term outcomes. This paper presents a systematic review of the existing literature and reports on a large case series comparing implant fractures between the Exeter V40 series; 125 mm and conventional length stem systems. A systematic literature search was performed adhering to PRISMA criteria. In parallel we performed a retrospective single centre study of Exeter™ V40 femoral stem prosthetic fractures between April 2003– June 2020. There are 25 reported cases of such prosthetic fractures confined to small case series and case reports within the literature. We report an additional 19 cases to the literature (mean age 66.3 ± 11.7 years; 12 female [63%]; body mass index 32.9 ± 5.9 kg/m2). The mean time from index procedure to fracture was 7.8 years (2.5–16.3, ±3.6). Exeter V40 stem fracture incidence was 0.27%. Incidence was significantly higher in 125 mm length stems compared to ≥150 mm length stems (1.26% vs 0.13%, respectively, p <0.001) and revision arthroplasty (1.209% vs 0.149%, p <0.001). When comparing different stem length cohorts, 125-mm short-stem were associated with stem body fractures (92% vs 29%, p = 0.0095), earlier time to fracture (6.2 vs 11.0 years, p = 0.0018), younger patient age at time of fracture (62.7 vs 72.6 years old, p = 0.037) and female sex (75% vs 43%, p = 0.33). This case series in conjunction with the systematic review provides evidence stem morphology plays a role in femoral implant fracture. This complication remains rare, although we report a significantly higher incidence at up to 17 years follow-up than in the literature. As femoral geometries remain the same, increasing BMIs in THR patients should raise concern. Short 125 mm length Exeter V40 stems undoubtedly have a role in restoring anatomy and biomechanics in smaller femoral geometries, although the surgeon has to appreciate the higher risk of stem fracture and the associated predisposing factors which may necessitate meticulous surgical technique and planning.
The Exeter V40 cemented polished tapered stem system has demonstrated excellent long-term outcomes. This paper presents a systematic review of the existing literature and reports on a large case series comparing implant fractures between the Exeter V40 series; 125 mm and conventional length stem systems. A systematic literature search was performed adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) criteria. In parallel, we performed a retrospective single centre study of Exeter V40 femoral stem prosthetic fractures between April 2003 and June 2020.Aims
Methods
Impingement in total hip replacements (THRs), including bone-on-bone impingement, can lead to complications such as dislocation and loosening. The aim of this study was to investigate how the location of the anterior inferior iliac spine (AIIS) affected the range of motion before impingement. A cohort of 25 CT scans (50 hips) were assessed and nine hips were selected with a range of AIIS locations relative to the hip joint centre. The selected CT Scans were converted to solid models (ScanIP) and THR components (DePuy Synthes) were virtually implanted (Solidworks). Flexion angles of 100⁰, 110⁰, and 120⁰ were applied to the femur, each followed by internal rotation to the point of impingement. The lateral, superior and anterior extent of the AIIS from the Centre of Rotation (CoR) of the hip was measured and its effect on the range of motion was recorded.Abstract
Objectives
Methods
The importance of cup position on the performance of total hip replacements (THR) has been demonstrated in Pelvic movement data for walking for 39 unilateral THR patients was acquired (Leeds Biomedical Research Centre). Patient's elected walking speed was used to group patients into high- and low-functioning (mean speed, 1.36(SD 0.09)ms−1 and 0.85(SD 0.08)ms−1 respectively). A computational algorithm (Python3.7) was developed to calculate cup version during gait cycle. Inputs were pelvic angles and initial cup orientation (assumed to be 45° inclination and 7° version, anterior pelvic plane was parallel to radiological frontal plane). Outputs were cup version angles during a gait cycle (101 measurements/cycle). Minimum, maximum and average cup version during gait cycle were measured for each patient. Two-sample t-test (p=0.05) was used to compare groups.Abstract
Objectives
Methods
There is great potential for the use of computational tools within the design and test cycle for joint replacement devices. The increasing need for stratified treatments that are more relevant to specific patients, and implant testing under more realistic, less idealised, conditions, will progressively increase the pre-clinical experimental testing work load. If the outcomes of experimental tests can be predicted using low cost computational tools, then these tools can be embedded early in the design cycle, e.g. benchmarking various design concepts, optimising component geometrical features and virtually predicting factors affecting the implant performance. Rapid, predictive tools could also allow population-stratified scenario testing at an early design stage, resulting in devices which are better suited to a patient-specific approach to treatment. The aim of the current study was to demonstrate the ability of a rapid computational analysis tool to predict the behaviour of a total hip replacement (THR) device, specifically the risk of edge loading due to separation under experimental conditions. A series of models of a 36mm BIOLOX® Delta THR bearing (DePuy Synthes, Leeds, UK) were generated to match an experimental simulator study which included a mediolateral spring to cause lateral head separation due to a simulated mediolateral component misalignment of 4mm. A static, rigid, frictionless model was implemented in Python (PyEL, runtime: ∼1m), and results were compared against 1) a critically damped dynamic, rigid, FE model (runtime: ∼10h), 2) a critically damped dynamic, rigid, FE model with friction (µ = 0.05) (runtime: ∼10h), and 3) kinematic experimental test data from a hip simulator (ProSim EM13) under matching settings (runtime: ∼6h). Outputs recorded were the variation of mediolateral separation and force with time.INTRODUCTION
METHODS
One of the known mechanisms which could contribute to the failure of total hip replacements (THR) is edge contact. Failures associated with edge contact include rim damage and lysis due to altered loading and torques. Recent study on four THR patients showed that the inclusion of pelvic motions in a contact model increased the risk of edge contact in some patients. The aim of current study was to determine whether pelvic motions have the same effect on contact location for a larger patient cohort and determine the contribution of each of the pelvic rotations to this effect. Gait data was acquired from five male and five female unilateral THR patients using a ten camera Vicon system (Oxford Metrics, UK) interfaced with twin force plates (AMTI) and using a CAST marker set. All patients had good surgical outcomes, confirmed by patient-reported outcomes and were considered well-functioning, based on elective walking speed. Joint contact forces and pelvic motions were obtained from the AnyBody modelling system (AnyBody Technologies, DK). Only gait cycle regions with available force plate data were considered. A finite element model of a 32mm head on a featureless hemispherical polyethylene cup, 0.5mm radial clearance, was used to obtain the contact area from the contact force. A bespoke computational tool was used to analyse patients' gait profiles with and without pelvic motions. The risk of edge contact was measured as a “centre proximity angle” between the cup pole and centre of the contact area, and “edge proximity angle” between the cup pole and the furthest contact area point away from the pole. Pelvic tilt, drop and internal-external rotation were considered one at a time and in combinations.Introduction
Methods
Acetabular tissue damage is implicated in osteoarthritis (OA) and investigation of in situ acetabular soft tissues behaviour will improve understanding of tissue properties and interconnections. The study aim was to visualise acetabular soft tissues under load and to quantify displacements using computed tomography (CT) scans (XtremeCT, Scano Medical). A CT scan (resolution 82 μm) was performed on the disarticulated, unloaded porcine acetabulum. The femoral head was soaked in Sodium Iodide (NaI) solution and cling film wrapped to prevent transfer to the acetabular side. The joint was realigned, compressed using cable ties and re-scanned. The two images were down-sampled to 0.3 mm. Acetabular bone and soft tissues were segmented. Bony features were used to register the two background images, using Simpleware ScanIP 7.0 (Synopsys), to the same position and orientation (volume difference < 5%). Acetabular soft tissues displacements were measured by tracking the same points at the tissue edges on the two acetabular masks, along with difference in bone position as an additional error assessment. The use of radiopaque solution provided a clear contrast allowing separation of the femoral and acetabular soft tissues in the loaded image. The image registration process resulted in a difference in bone position in the areas of interest equivalent to image resolution (0.3 mm, a mean of 3 repeats by same user). A labral tip displacement of 1.7 mm and a cartilage thickness change from 1.5 mm unloaded to 0.9 mm loaded, were recorded. The combination of contrast enhancement, registration and focused local measurement was precise enough to reduce bone alignment error to that of image resolution and reveal local soft tissue displacements. These measurement methods can be used to develop models of soft tissues properties and behaviour, and therapy for hip tissue damage at early stage may be reviewed and optimised.
Up to 60% of total hip arthroplasties (THA) in Asian populations arise from avascular necrosis (AVN), a bone disease that can lead to femoral head collapse. Current diagnostic methods to classify AVN have poor reproducibility and are not reliable in assessing the fracture risk. Femoral heads with an immediate fracture risk should be treated with a THA, conservative treatments are only successful in some cases and cause unnecessary patient suffering if used inappropriately. There is potential to improve the assessment of the fracture risk by using a combination of density-calibrated computed tomographic (QCT) imaging and engineering beam theory. The aim of this study was to validate the novel fracture prediction method against Six femoral heads from six subjects were tested, a subset (n=3) included a hole drilled into the subchondral area of the femoral head via the femoral neck (University of Leeds, ethical approval MEEC13-002). The simulated lesions provided a method to validate the fracture prediction model with respect of AVN. The femoral heads were then modelled by a beam loaded with a single joint contact load. Material properties were assigned to the beam model from QCT-scans by using a density-modulus relationship. The maximum joint loading at which each bone cross-section was likely to fracture was calculated using a strain based failure criterion. Based on the predicted fracture loads, all six femoral heads (validation set) were classified into two groups, high fracture risk and low fracture risk (Figure 1). Beam theory did not allow for an accurate fracture load to be found because of the geometry of the femoral head. Therefore the predicted fracture loads of each of the six femoral heads was compared to the mean fracture load from twelve previously analysed human femoral heads (reference set) without lesions. The six cemented femurs were compression tested until failure. The subjects with a higher fracture risk were identified using both the experimental and beam tool outputs.Introduction
Methods
Geometric variations of the hip joint can give rise to repeated abnormal contact between the femur and acetabular rim, resulting in cartilage and labrum damage. Population-based geometric parameterisation can facilitate the flexible and automated Parametric geometries can be developed into finite element models to assess the potential effects of morphological variations in bone on soft tissue strains. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the capabilities of our parameterisation research tool by assessing impingement severity resulting from a range of parametrically varied femoral and acetabular geometries. Custom made MATLAB (MathWorks) and Python codes[1] were used to generate bone surfaces, which were developed into finite element models in Abaqus (SIMULIA). Parametric femoral surfaces were defined by a spherical proximal head and ellipse sections through the neck/cam region. This method produced surfaces that were well fitted to bone geometry segmented from CT scans of cam patients and capable of producing trends in results similar to those found using segmented models. A simplified spherical geometry, including the labrum and acetabular cartilage, represented the acetabulum. Femoral parameters were adjusted to define relevant variations in cam size and position. Two radii (small and large cams) and two positions (anterior and superior cams) were defined resulting in four models. Alpha angles of these parametric femurs were measured in an anterior-posterior view and a cross-table lateral view using ImageJ (NIH). A further model was developed using a femur with a medium cam size and position, and the level of acetabular coverage and labrum length were varied. Bones were modelled as rigid bodies and soft tissues were modelled as transversely isotropic linearly elastic materials. With the acetabulum fully constrained in all cases, the femurs were constrained in translation and rotated to simulate flexion followed by internal rotation to cause impingement against the labrum.Introduction
Methods
To investigate whether the duration of pain has an influence on the clinical outcomes of patients with low back pain (LBP) managed through the North East of England Regional Back Pain and Radicular Pain Pathway (NERBPP). The NERBPP is a clinical pathway based upon NICE guidelines (2009) for LBP. Patients with LBP referred onto the NERBPP by their General Practitioner (GP) between May 2015 and January 2017 were included in this evaluation. Data from 635 patients, who provided pre and post data for pain (Numerical rating scale [NRS]), function (Oswestry Disability Index [ODI]) and quality-of-life (EuroQol [EQ5D]), were analysed using a series of covariate adjusted models in SPSS. Patients were categorised into four groups based upon pain duration: <3months, ≥3 to <6months, ≥6months to <12months, ≥12months.Aims
Patients and Methods
Conservative treatment of acute AT ruptures with functional rehabilitation has demonstrated superior results with equal reported re-rupture rates but without the added complications of surgical treatment. There is no consensus on the duration and method of treatment using functional rehabilitation regimes. The purpose of this paper is to define our treatment regime, the Leicester Achilles Management Protocol (LAMP), supported with patient reported outcomes and objective measures of assessment. All patients with an acute achilles tendon rupture were treated with the same non-operative LAMP functional rehabilitation regime in a VACOped boot for 8 weeks. 12 months post rupture ATRS scores and objective measures of calf muscle girth and heel raise height were obtained and analysed. Venous thromboembolic rates and rates of re-rupture were recorded.Background
Methods
The stability of the elbow joint following an acute elbow dislocation is dependent on associated injuries. The ability to identify these concomitant injuries correctly directs management and improves the chances of a successful outcome. Interpretation of plain radiographs in the presence of either a dislocation or post-reduction films with plaster in-situ is difficult. This study aimed to assess the ability of orthopaedic registrars to accurately identify associated bony injuries on initial plain radiographs using CT as the gold standard for comparison. Patients over the age of 16 years undergoing an elbow CT scan within one week of a documented elbow dislocation between 1st June 2010 and 1st June 2014 were included in the study. Three orthopaedic registrars independently reviewed both the initial dislocation and immediate post reduction plain radiographs to identify any associated bony injuries. This radiograph review was repeated by each registrar after two weeks. The incidence of associated injuries as well as the inter- and intra-observer variability was calculated.Introduction
Methods
Mal-positioning of the acetabular component in total hip replacement (THR) could lead to edge loading, accelerated component wear, impingement and dislocation [1,2]. In order to achieve a successful position for the acetabular component, the assessment of the acetabular orientation with reference to different coordinate systems is important [3]. The aims of the present study were to establish a pelvic coordinate system and a global body coordinate system, and to assess the acetabular orientations of natural hips with reference to the two coordinate systems. Three-dimensional (3D) computed tomographic (CT) images of 56 subjects (28 males and 28 females) lying supine were obtained from a public image archive (Cancer Image Archive, website: INTRODUCTION
METHODS
The performance of total hip replacement (THR) devices can be affected by the quality of the tissues surrounding the joint or the mismatch of the component centres during hip replacement surgery. Experimental studies have shown that these factors can cause the separation of the two components during walking cycle (dynamic separation) and the contact of the femoral head with the rim of the acetabular liner (edge loading), which can lead to increased wear and shortened implant lifespan1. There is a need for flexible pre-clinical testing tools which allow THR devices to be assessed under these adverse conditions. In this work, a novel dynamic finite element model was developed that is able to generate dynamic separation as it occurs during the gait cycle. In addition, the ability to interrogate contact mechanics and material strain under separation conditions provides a unique means of assessing the severity of edge loading. This study demonstrates these model capabilities for a range of simulated surgical translational mismatch values, for ceramic-on-polyethylene implants. The components of the THR were aligned and constrained as illustrated in Figure 1. CAD models of commercially available implant geometries were used (DePuy Synthes, Leeds, UK) modified for model simplicity by removing anti-rotation features. The polyethylene cup liner was given elastic-plastic behaviour. An axial load following the Paul cycle pattern (5 repetitive cycles) with maximum of 3KN and swing phase load of 0.3KN, was applied through the cup holder. The effect of translational mismatch was implemented by using a spring element connected to the cup unit on the lateral side. The spring was compressed by a fixed amount to replicate a degree of medial-lateral mismatch of the components. The instantaneous resultant force vector dictated the dynamic sliding behaviour of the cup against the head. In this study, translational medial-lateral mismatch values of 1, 2, 3 and 4mm were used and the medial-lateral dynamic separation, contact pressure maps and plastic strain were recorded.Introduction
Methodology
The importance of accurate identification and reporting of surgical
site infection (SSI) is well recognised but poorly defined. Public
Health England (PHE) mandated collection of orthopaedic SSI data
in 2004. Data submission is required in one of four categories (hip
prosthesis, knee prosthesis, repair of neck of femur, reduction
of long bone fracture) for one quarter per year. Trusts are encouraged
to carry out post-discharge surveillance but this is not mandatory.
Recent papers in the orthopaedic literature have highlighted the
importance of SSI surveillance and the heterogeneity of surveillance
methods. However, details of current orthopaedic SSI surveillance
practice has not been described or quantified. All 147 NHS trusts in England were audited using a structured
questionnaire. Data was collected in the following categories: data
collection; data submission to PHE; definitions used; resource constraints;
post-discharge surveillance and SSI rates in the four PHE categories.
The response rate was 87.7%.Aims
Patients and Methods
We present a case series of five patients who had revision surgery
following magnetic controlled growing rods (MGCR) for early onset
scoliosis. Metallosis was found during revision in four out of five
patients and we postulated a mechanism for rod failure based on
retrieval analysis. Retrieval analysis was performed on the seven explanted rods.
The mean duration of MCGR from implantation to revision was 35 months
(17 to 46). The mean age at revision was 12 years (7 to 15; four
boys, one girl).Aims
Patients and Methods
Acute Achilles tendon (AT) rupture management remains debatable but non-operative functional regimes are beginning to dominate current treatment algorithms. The aim of this study was to identify predictors of functional outcome in patients with AT ruptures treated non-operatively with an immediate weight bearing functional regime in an orthosis. Analysis of prospectively gathered data from a local database of all patients treated non-operativelyat our institution with anAT rupture was performed. Inclusion criteria required a completed Achilles Tendon Rupture Score (ATRS) at a minimum of 8 months post rupture. The ATRS score was correlated against age, gender, time following rupture, duration of treatment in a functional orthoses (8- and 11-week regimes) and complications. 236 patients of average age 49.5 years were included. The mean ATRS on completion of rehabilitation was 74 points. The mean ATRS was significantly lower in the 37 females as compared to the 199 males, 65.8 vs 75.6 (p = 0.013). Age inversely affected ATRS with a Pearsons correlation of −0.2. There was no significant difference in the ATRS score when comparing the two different treatment regime durations. There were 12 episodes of VTE and 4 episodes of re-rupture. The ATRS does not change significantly after 8 months of rupture. Patients with AT ruptures treated non-operatively with a functional rehabilitation regime demonstrate good function with low re-rupture rates. Increasing age and female gender demonstrate inferior functional outcomes.
The number of total hip replacements taking place across the UK continues to grow. In an ageing population, with people living longer and placing greater strain on their prostheses, the number of peri-prosthetic femoral fractures is increasing. We studied the economic impact this has on a large university teaching hospital. All patients with a peri-prosthetic femoral fracture between 24/11/2006 and 31/5/2014 were identified using theatre databases. Radiographic and case note analysis was performed for each case. Costings from finance department for implants and in-patient stay were obtained.Introduction
Method
The K2M MESA Rail is a new implant with a unique beam-like design which provides increased rigidity compared with a standard circular rod of equivalent diameter potentially allowing greater control and maintenance of correction. The aim of this study was to review our early experience of this implant. We retrospectively reviewed the case notes and radiographs of all consecutive cases of spinal deformity correction in which at least one rail was used. All radiological measurements were made according to the Scoliosis Research Society definitions. Since June 2012 thirty-three cases of spinal deformity correction were performed using the K2M Rail system. One case was excluded as there were no pre-operative radiographs. Median age was 15 years; there were 23 females. There were 26 scoliosis cases of which two had associated Chiari malformation, three were neuromuscular, and the remainder were adolescent idiopathic cases. Six patients had kyphotic deformity secondary to Scheuermann's disease. Mean length of follow-up was 16 months. In the scoliosis cases the mean pre-operative Cobb angle of the major curve was 58.6° with a mean correction of 35.6°. The mean post-operative thoracic kyphosis was 21.1°. The median number of levels included in the correction was 13. Bilateral rails were used in four cases, the remainder had one rail on the concave side and a contralateral rod. No patients required an anterior release or staged surgery. All kyphosis cases had posterior apical corrective osteotomies. The mean pre-operative thoracic kyphosis was 75.5° with a mean correction of 31°. The median number of levels included in the correction was 11. Four patients had bilateral rails. No patients required anterior release. Complications: two patients had prominent hardware. One patient had a malpositioned screw causing nerve root irritation, which was removed. There were three superficial infections, which settled with antibiotics. There were no cases of implant breakage, screw pull-out, or loss of correction. The K2M MESA Rail is a powerful new implant design which helps to achieve and maintain satisfactory correction of complex spinal deformity, and is particularly strong at correcting kyphotic deformity. It also enables restoration of normal thoracic kyphosis, particularly in idiopathic thoracic curves, which tend to be lordosing. This may prevent thoracic flat back and potential long-term sequelae. Early results show that the system is as safe and effective as other posterior deformity correction implants on the market, however, it requires further prospective follow-up to ascertain its outcomes in the long-term.
To determine the efficacy and safety of the Magec system in early onset scoliosis (EOS). In 2011, 6 males and 2 females had Magec rods, with an average age of 8.5 years (2.9–12.7 years), 7 patients had dual rods, and 1 had single. The main cause of EOS was idiopathic scoliosis (n=6), followed by Congenital (n=1), and Syndromic (n=1). Average follow up was 19.4 months (14–26 months). 4 of these patients had their previous Paediatric Isola growing rods exchanged to Magec, and 1 patient had an exchange from single to Dual Magec rods.Aim:
Methods:
To measure truncal parameters for patients treated with growing rod systems for early onset scoliosis (EOS). 44 patients underwent growth rod surgery for EOS between 1999 and 2013 (24 females and 20 males). 27 patients had idiopathic scoliosis, 13 congenital, 3 syndromic and 1 neuromuscular. 26 patients had Paediatric Isola, 8 had Paediatric Expedium, 4 had dual growth rods with domino's and 9 each had VEPTR and MAGEC rods systems. Medical records and radiographs were analysed. Cobb angle, T1-T12 and T1-S1 length, coronal and sagittal balance, apical vertical translation (AVT), space available for the lung (SAL) and shoulder balance were measured.Aim:
Methods:
Low back pain is a common complaint, affecting up to one third of the adult population costing over £1 billion to the NHS each year and £3.5 billion to the UK economy in lost production. The demand for spinal injections is increasing allowing for advanced spinal physiotherapists to perform the procedure. The objective of this study was to investigate outcome following spinal injections performed by consultant spinal surgeon (n=40) and advanced spinal physiotherapists (ASP) (n=40) at our centre. Data on 80 patients who had received caudal epidural (n=36), nerve root block (n=28) and facet joint injections (n=16) form August 2010 to October 2011 consented to be in the study. 40 patients in each group completed Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Visual Analogue Scores (VAS) before and 6 weeks after the procedure and patient satisfaction questionnaire investigating their experience and any complications related to the spinal injection retrospectively. The study included 32 males and 48 females. Mean age 57 years, range 21–88. [Consultant group M:17, F:23 mean age: 55, range 21–81. ASP group M:15, F:25 mean age 59, range 22–88]. Measures of patient satisfaction and outcome were obtained; using 2 tailed independent samples Introduction and aims
Method and Materials
Fractures of the femoral head are a challenging problem. The most often performed head preserving procedure worldwide is closed reduction and insertion of cannulated screws under fluoroscopic control. The use of navigation is still experimental in general trauma since rigid reference markers must be attached to all fragments. The examined system (Surgix®, Tel Aviv, Israel) is a fluoroscopy based image analysing system. It consists of a workstation and X-ray opaque markers in surgical tools. When the tool is visible in a C-arm shot a trajectory is displayed as additional layer in the image to serve as guidance for the surgeon. Forty synthetic femurs (Synbone®, Malans, Switzerland) were used and placed inside foam to simulate the soft tissue of the thigh. The models were equipped with 4.5mm radio-opaque markers at the fovea capitis femoris as target point. The aim was to bring the tip of a K-wire as close as possible to the target point entering the bone at the lateral base of the greater trochanter in a center-center position. Twenty were done under image guidance and 20 were operated the conventional way. Outcome measures included the accuracy (the distance between the tip of the wire and the target in a CT), the number of guide wire insertions, procedure duration, radiation exposure and learning curve. In the image guided group optimal guide wire placement was accomplished on first pass in 65% of the cases as compared to 5% in the conventional group (p = < 0.0001). The average number of trial and error was significantly lower in the guided group (1.7 vs. 5.8, p = < 0.0001). Consequently the average duration of the guided procedure was significantly shorter (p = 0.0008) along with radiation exposure time reduced by over 70% (p = 0.0002). The guidance system hit averaged 5.8 mm off target as compared to 5.3 mm for the freehand method (p = 0.3319). Image based guidance significantly shortened the procedure, reduced the radiation exposure and the number of trials without changing the surgeons workflow and can be used in trauma cases were reference marker based navigation is not applicable.
Computer assisted surgery (CAS) is used in trauma surgery to reduce radiation and improve accuracy but it is time consuming. Some trials for navigation in small bone fractures were made, but they are still experimental. One major problem is the fixation of the dynamic reference base for navigation. We evaluated the benefit of a new image based guidance-system (Surgix®, Tel Aviv, Israel) for fracture treatment in scaphoid bones compared to the conventional method without navigation. The system consists of a workstation and surgical devices with embedded radio opaque markers. These markers as well as the object of interest must be on the same C-arm shot. If a tool is detected in an image by the attached workstation additional information such as trajectories are displayed in the original fluoroscopic image to serve the surgeon as aiming device. The system needs no referencing and no change of the workflow. For this study 20 synthetic hand models (Synbone®, Malans, Switzerland) were randomised in two groups. Aim of this study was a central guide-wire placement in the scaphoid bone, which was blindly measured by using postoperative CT-scans. Significant distinctions related to the duration of surgery, emission of radiation, radiation dose, and trials of guide-wire positioning were observed. By using the system the surgery duration was with 50 % shortened (p = 0.0054) compared to the conventional group. One reason might be the significant reduction of trials to achieve a central guide-wire placement in the bone (p = 0.0032). Consequently the radiation exposure for the surgeon and the patient could be shortened by reduction of radiation emission (p = 0.0014) and radiation dose (p = 0.0019). By using the imaged based guidance system a reduction of surgery duration, radiation exposure for the patient and the surgeon can be achieved. By a reduced number of trials for achieving a central guide-wire position the risk of weakening the bone structure can be minimised as well by using the system. The system seems helpful where navigation is not applicable up to now. The surgical workflow does not have to be chanced.
Replacing bone lost as a consequence of trauma or disease is a major challenge in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. Tissue engineering strategies seek to harness the potential of stem cells to regenerate lost or damaged tissue. Bone marrow aspirate (BMA) provides a promising autologous source of skeletal stem cells (SSCs) however, previous studies have demonstrated that the concentration of SSCs required for robust tissue regeneration is below levels present in iliac crest BMA, emphasising the need for cell enrichment strategies prior to clinical application. To develop a novel strategy to enrich skeletal stem cells (SSCs) from human BMA, clinically applicable for intra-operative orthopaedic use.Background
Aims
Skeletal stem cells (SSCs) have been used for the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head to prevent subsequent collapse. In isolation SSCs do not provide structural support but an innovative case series in Southampton, UK, has used SSCs in combination with impaction bone grafting (IBG) to improve both the biological and mechanical environment and to regenerate new bone at the necrotic site. Analysis of retrieved tissue-engineered bone as part of ongoing follow-up of this translational case series.Background
Aims
Skeletal stem cells can be combined with human allograft, and impacted to produce a mechanically stable living bone composite. This strategy has been used for the treatment of femoral head avascular necrosis, and has been translated to four patients, of which three remain asymptomatic at up to three year follow-up. In one patient collapse occurred in both hips due to widely distributed and advanced AVN disease, necessitating bilateral hip arthroplasty. However this has provided the opportunity to retrieve the femoral heads and analyse human tissue engineered bone. Analysis of retrieved human tissue-engineered bone in conjunction with clinical follow-up of this translational case series.Background
Aims
Recent approaches have sought to harness the potential of stem cells to regenerate bone lost as a consequence of trauma or disease. Bone marrow aspirate (BMA) provides an autologous source of skeletal stem cells (SSCs) for such applications, however previous studies have demonstrated that the concentration of SSCs present in iliac crest BMA is below that required for robust bone regeneration. Here we present a novel acoustic-facilitated filtration strategy to concentrate BMA for SSCs, clinically applicable for intra-operative orthopaedic use. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the efficacy of this strategy in concentrating SSCs from iliac crest bone marrow, as well as femoral canal BMA from older patients. Iliac crest BMA (Lonza, Rockville, MD, USA) and femoral canal BMA was obtained with informed consent from older patients during total hip replacement. 5 to 40ml of BMA was processed via the acoustically-aided exclusion filtration process to obtain 2-8 fold volume reductions. SSC concentration and function was assessed by flow-cytometry, assays for fibroblastic colony-forming units (CFU-F) and multi-lineage differentiation along chondrogenic, osteogenic and adipogenic pathways examined. Seeding efficiency of enriched and unprocessed BMA (normalised to cell number) onto allograft was assessed. Iliac crest BMA from 15 patients was enriched for SSCs in a processing time of only 15 minutes. Femoral BMA from 15 patients in the elderly cohort was concentrated up to 5-fold with a corresponding enrichment of viable and functional SSCs, confirmed by flow cytometry and assays for CFU-F. Enhanced osteogenic (P<0.05) and chondrogenic (P<0.001) differentiation was observed using concentrated aspirate, as evidenced by biochemical assay and semi-quantitative histological analysis. Furthermore, enhanced cell seeding efficiency onto allograft was seen as an effect of SSC concentration per ml of aspirate (P<0.001), confirming the utility of this approach for application to bone regeneration. The ability to rapidly enrich BMA demonstrates potential for intra-operative application to enhance bone healing and offers immediate capacity for clinical application to treat many scenarios associated with local bone stock loss. Further in vivo analysis is ongoing prior to clinical tests.
Periprosthetic femoral fractures can occur as a complication of total hip arthroplasty and are often challenging to treat as the mechanical scenario is influenced by the presence of the metal prosthesis within the bone. This research focuses on finding the optimum fixation for transverse, Vancouver type B1 periprosthetic fractures, stabilised using locking plates and secured using screws. The aim of this study was to experimentally validate a computer model of a human femur, develop that model to represent a periprosthetic femoral fracture fixation and show how the model could be used to indicate differences between plating techniques. In the first development stage, both a laboratory model and a finite element model were developed to evaluate the mechanical behaviour of an intact composite femur under axial loading. Axial strains were recorded along the medial length of the femur in both cases and compared to provide validation for the computational model predications. The computational intact femur model was then modified to include a cemented total hip replacement, and further adapted to include a periprosthetic fracture stabilised using a locking plate, with unicortical screws above, and bicortical screws below the transverse fracture. For the intact femur case, the experimental and computational strain patterns correlated well with an average difference of 16%. Following the inclusion of the stem, there was a reduction in the strain in the region of the prosthesis reducing by an average of 45%. There was also a large increase in bulk stiffness with the introduction of the prosthesis. When the fracture and plate fixation were included, there was little difference in the proximal strain where the stem dominated, and the strains in the distal region were found to be highly sensitive to the distribution of the screws. The results of this study indicate that screw configuration is an important factor in periprosthetic fracture fixation. A laboratory model of the periprosthetic facture case is now under development to further validate the computational models and the two approaches will then be used to determine optimum fixation methods for a range of clinical scenarios.
Retrospective review of growth sparing spinal instrumentation. Medical records of 30 children with spinal deformity treated were evaluated. There were 14 male and 16 female patients at an average age of 4.9 years (1-14) at the time of presentation. These included 18 idiopathic, 11 congenital and a 14 year old with delayed growth having GH treatment. All patients underwent dual growing rod construct using hook and pedicle screw instrumentation. Extensions were carried out at approximately 6 monthly intervals. Average follow up was 4.2 years (2-8.5) with an average of 7.3(3-15) extension/exchange procedures per patient. Average immediate postoperative Cobb angle was 29(15-55) from a preoperative Cobb of 68(55-100) and this was maintained to a final mean Cobb angle of 30(15-60). Average gain in T1-S1 length was 5.7(3.5-9.8) cm. Five patients had final fusion at an average age of 15.5 years. There were no infections following primary operation. Out of 249 procedures including extensions/exchange, there were 9(4.5%) episodes of deep infection in 7 patients requiring debridement. Four patients (13%) had revisions for rod breakage/screw loosening/hook pullout/junctional kyphosis and three(10%) had prominent implants.Purpose
Methods and results
To evaluate efficacy of blood conservation strategies on transfusion requirements in adult scoliosis surgery and establish a protocol for cross matching. Retrospective review of 50 consecutive adult scoliosis patients treated using anterior only(14,28%), posterior only(19,38%) or combined(17,34%) approaches. All patients were anaesthetised by the same anaesthetist implementing a standard protocol using cell salvage, controlled hypotension and antifibrinolytics. Mean age was 24.6 years. BMI was 21.9. On an average 9.5(6-15) levels were fused, with an average duration of surgery of 284.6(130-550) minutes. Antifibrinolytics were used in 31(62%) of the patients which included Aprotinin in 21(42%) and Tranexamic acid in 10(20%). Patients on antifibrinolytics had a significantly (p<0.05) lower blood loss (530ml) as compared to other patients (672ml). Mean volume of the cell saved blood re-transfused was 693.8 ml and mean postoperative HB level dropped to 10.7 g/dl(7.7-15) from a mean preoperative of 13.3 g/dl(10-17). 7(42%) with combined approaches and 3(15.8%) with posterior only approach required blood transfusion, 4/50(8%) of which required intra while 6/50(12%) required intra and postoperative transfusion. None of the patients having anterior surgery alone required blood transfusion.Purpose
Methods and Results
Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head is a potentially debilitating disease of the hip in young adults. Impaction bone grafting (IBG) of morcellised fresh frozen allograft is used in a number of orthopaedic conditions. This study has examined the potential of skeletal stem cells (SSC) to augment the mechanical properties of impacted bone graft and we translate these findings into clinical practice. We have examined the effect of SSC density on augmentation of bone formation. An in vitro model was developed to replicate the surgical IBG process. Plain allograft was used as the control, and the SSC's seeded at a density of 5×103, 5×104 and 2×105 cells per cc of allograft for the experimental groups. All samples were cultured for 2 weeks and mechanically tested to determine shear strength using the Mohr Coulomb failure curve. The approach was translated to 3 patients with early avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head. The patient's bone marrow was concentrated in theatre using a centrifugation device and the concentrated fraction of SSC's were seeded onto milled allograft. The patient's necrotic bone was drilled, curetted and replaced with impacted allograft seeded with SSC's. Osteogenic potential of concentrated and unconcentrated marrow was simultaneously compared in vitro by colony forming unit assays.AIM
STUDY DESIGN
“Increases in reconstructive orthopaedic surgery, resulting from advances in surgical practice and the ageing population, have lead to a demand for bone graft that far exceeds supply.”…Traditional bone grafting methods have been linked with a number of negative issues including increased morbidity due to secondary operation site and action as a vector for spread of disease. (Hing 2004). A solution to these insufficiencies would be the creation of a synthetic osteoinductive bone graft material. This would vastly improve bone graft surgery success rates and expedite post-op recovery times. The aim of this study was to classify then explore the dissolution rates of three experimental hydroxyapatite/silicate apatite synthetic bonegrafts in physiological solutions, (phosphate buffered saline, (PBS) +/− serum proteins, (PBS +FCS). The overall objective being to identify whether there is an explainable significant difference in ion exchange that could be behind the osteoinductive phenomena. Classification of the apatite samples, (HA, SA1 and SA2), was conducted via X-Ray diffraction, FTIR-PAS Spectroscopy and SEM with EDS analysis. A dissolution experiment of the experimental apatites was conducted in PBS and PBS + FCS solutions, over time periods of 1, 2 and 4 hours, and at 1, 2, 4 and 8 days, with repeat measures.Background, Context and Motivation
Methods Used
Spinal cord injury following trauma is initially dealt with by acute hospitals. The early management including stabilization is usually performed by these centres. This is followed by onward referral to one of the Regional Spinal Injury Units. There is concern of both sides of the fence regarding mobilization following spinal cord injury. The acute hospitals want to avoid the problems of prolonged recumbency and the Regional Spinal Injury Units wish to avoid the problems of early aggressive mobilization. Therefore, we set out to discover if there was a standard approach to mobilising these patients following surgical stabilization, because of the oversubscribed resources of the spinal injury units and the wish to start mobilizing the injured as soon as possible. A comparative audit of the Regional Spinal Injury Units in the UK and North American Units. Regional Spinal Injury Units in United Kingdom and North America Clear Management Plan Mobilisation Schedule We had replies from all Regional Spinal Injury Units in the UK and from seven in North America. The Regional Spinal Injury Units all had differing approaches. Only a few were able to convey a clear management plan and mobilization schedule. Whereas the North American Units provided a ‘mobilize as able’ plan in all cases. The North American Units had a ‘mobilize as able’ policy, whereas the UK units had a mixed approach. A coherent collaboration between the spinal surgeons stabilizing these injuries and the spinal injury units providing rehabilitation would improve patient management.
To assess adverse events related to XLIF approach in lumbar degenerative disease. Recently novel minimally disruptive spine procedure eXtreme lateral Interbody Fusion i.e XLIF has been developed. It is 90 (off the midline true lateral approach, which allows large graft placement, excellent disc height restoration and indirect decompression at the stenotic motion segment. We describe our experience in 28 patients. Retrospective review of records of patients undergoing surgery between July 2008- Jan 2010. Presenting complaints, number of levels performed and complications (medical, approach, or implant related) were audited. Results: 28 patients (17 female: 11 male) with median age of 47 yrs, range (38-75) formed the study group. Average stay was 4 days. All patients had MRI of lumbar spine. 2/3 rd patients had low back pain as their presenting complaint. All patients had nerve monitoring through out the procedure. There were 12 single, 15 two level and 1 three level cases (total 45 levels). 14/28 patients underwent plating at the same time. EBL was 100ml. There were 11/45 adverse events (24.4%). 6 events were approach, 4 were implant bone interface and 1 medical related. Major complication occurred in 1 patient (3.6%). 2/3 rd of patients, were better after the surgery. Almost negligible blood loss, low infection rate and short average stay seemed to work in favour of this approach. Complications are there as (with any new procedure) our results indicate, but these are manageable and less common with this technique. This did not require Ethics approval and there was no grant or industry support for the above.
To assess the accuracy of posterior and anterolateral methods of injection into the subacromial space (SAS) of the shoulder. Ethical approval was obtained and 50 patients (23 women and 27 men) with mean age of 64.5 years (42-87 years) and clinical diagnosis of subacromial impingement were recruited. Patients with old or recent shoulder fracture, bleeding disorders, and allergy to iodine were excluded. All injections were given by the consultant or an experienced registrar after obtaining informed consent. Patients were randomised into posterior and anterolateral groups and the method of injection was revealed by opening sealed envelopes just before the injection. A combination of 3mls 0.5% bupivacaine and 2mls of radiographic dye (Niopam) was injected in the subacromial space (SAS) using either anterolateral (n-22) and posterior approaches (28). AP and lateral radiographs of shoulder were taken after injection and were reported by a Consultant Radiologist blinded to the method of injection. Visual analogue scale (VAS) and Constant-Murley shoulder score was used to assess pain and function respectively. Both scores were determined before and 30 minutes after the injection.Aims
Patients and methods
We aimed (1) to determine the factors which influence outcome after surgery for CES and (2) to study CES MRI measurements. 56 patients with evidence of a sphincteric disturbance who underwent urgent surgery (1994-2002) were identified and invited to clinic. 31 MRIs were available for analysis and randomised with 19 MRIs of patients undergoing discectomy for persistent radiculopathy. Observers estimated the percentage of spinal canal compromise and indicated whether they thought the scan findings could produce CES and whether the discs looked degenerate. Measurements were repeated after two weeks. (1) 42 patients attended (mean follow up 60 months; range 25–114). Mean age at onset was 41 years (range 24–67). 26 patients were operated on within 48 hours of onset. Acute onset of sphincteric symptoms and the time to operation did not influence the outcomes. Leg weakness at onset persisted in a significant number at follow-up (p<0.005). Bowel disturbance at presentation was associated with sexual problems (<0.005) at follow-up. Urinary disturbance at presentation did not affect the outcomes. The 13 patients who failed their post-operative trial without catheter had worse outcomes. The SF36 scores at follow-up were reduced compared to age-matched norms in the population. The mean ODI was 29, LBOS 42 and VAS 4.5. (2) No significant correlations were found between MRI canal compromise and clinical outcome. There was moderate to substantial agreement for intra- and inter-observer reproducibility. Due to small numbers we cannot make the conclusion that delay to surgery influences outcome. Based on the SF36, LBOS and ODI scores, patients who have had CES do not return to a normal status. Using MRI alone, the correct identification of CES has sensitivity 68%, specificity 80% positive predictive value 84% and negative predictive value 60%. CES occurs in degenerate discs.Conclusions
In suspected scaphoid fracture the initial scaphoid series plain radiographs are 84-94% sensitive for scaphoid fractures. Patients are immobilised awaiting diagnosis. Unnecessary lengthy immobilisation leads to lost productivity and may leave the wrist stiff. Early accurate diagnosis would improve patient management. Although Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has come to be regarded as the gold standard in identifying occult scaphoid injury, recent evidence suggests Computer Tomography (CT) to be more accurate in identifying scaphoid cortical fracture. Additionally CT and USS are frequently a more available resource than MRI. We hypothesised that 16 slice CT is superior to high spatial resolution Ultrasonography (USS) in the diagnosis of radiograph negative suspected cortical scaphoid fracture and that a 5 point clinical examination will help to identify patients most likely to have sustained a fracture within this group. 100 patients with two negative scaphoid series and at least two out of five established clinical signs of scaphoid injury (anatomical snuffbox tenderness (AST), scaphoid tubercle tenderness (STT), effusion, pain on circumduction and pain on axial loading) were prospectively investigated with CT and USS. MRI was arranged for patient with persistent symptoms but negative CT/USS.Background
Methods
Excessive implant migration and micromotion have been related to eventual implant loosening. The aim of this project is to develop a computational tool that will be able to predict the mechanical performance of a cementless implant in the presence of uncertainty, for example through variations in implant alignment or bone quality. To achieve this aim, a computational model has to be developed and implemented. However, to gain confidence in the model, it should be verified experimentally. To this end, the present work investigated the behavior of a cementless implant experimentally, and compared the results with a computational model of the same test setup. A synthetic bone (item 3406, Sawbones Europe AB, Sweden) was surgically implanted with a Furlong cementless stem (JRI, Sheffield, UK) in a neutral position and subjected to a compression fatigue test of −200 N to −1.6 kN at a frequency of 0.5 Hz for 50000 cycles. Measurements of the micromotion and migration were carried out using two linear variable differential transducers and the strain on the cortex of the femur was measured by a digital image correlation system (Limess Messtechnik &
Software Gmbh). A three-dimensional model was generated from computed tomography scans of the implanted Sawbone and converted to a finite element (FE) model using Simple-ware software (Simpleware Ltd, Exeter, UK). Face-to-face elements were used to generate a contact pair between the Sawbone and the implant. A contact stiffness of 6000 N/m and a friction coefficient of 0.3 were assigned. The analysis simulated a load of −1.6 kN applied to the head of the implant shortly post implantation. The motions and strains recorded in the experiment were compared with the predictions from the computational model. The micromotion (the vertical movement of the implant during a single load cycle), was measured at the proximal shoulder, at the distal tip of the implant and at the bone-implant interface. The maximum value calculated proximally using FE was 61.3 μm compared to the experimental value of 59.6 μm. At the distal end, the maximum micromotion from FE was 168.9 μm compared to 170 μm experimentally. As a point of reference, some authors have suggested that in vivo, fibrous tissue formation may take place at the bone-implant interface when the micromotion is above 150 μm. The maximum micromotion found computationally at this interface was 99 μm which is below the threshold value defined. The longitudinal strain over the surface of the bone was variable and reached values of up to 0.15% computationally and 0.4% experimentally; this may be related to the coordinate systems used. However, it was noted that digital image correlation identified qualitatively similar strain patterns, and has great potential for measuring low level surface strains on bone. In conclusion, the good correlation between the computational modelling and experimental tests provides confidence in the model for further investigations using probabilistic analyses where more complex configurations (for example change in implant alignment) can be analyzed.
the number of ACL reconstruction surgeries performed on females between the ages of 13–18 inclusive in the Capital Health (CH) region from December 2000 to November 2005, and those due to soccer injuries. Secondly, we describe factors relating to the mechanism of injury.
Age at reconstruction procedure. Indoor versus outdoor soccer playing surface. Level of play and frequency of participation. The Alberta Soccer Association provided the number of registrants in indoor and outdoor seasons over the same time period.
We aimed to evaluate the effects of implementing blood conservation strategies on transfusion requirements in adult patients undergoing scoliosis correction surgery. We retrospectively studied 50 consecutive adult patients who underwent scoliosis correction surgery (anterior, posterior or combined) between 2003 and 2007. All patients had a standard transfusion protocol. Age, BMI, pre and post operative haemoglobin, levels fused, duration of surgery, hospital stay, anti-fibrinolytics used and blood transfused was noted. 50 patients with mean age 24.6 years and mean BMI 21.9 kg/m2 were studied. 14 patients had anterior surgery, 19 patients had posterior surgery and 17 had combined anterior and posterior procedures. Mean number of levels fused was 9.5 (6–15) and mean duration of surgery was 284.6 minutes (135–550 minutes). Antifibrinolytics were used in 31 patients (62%), Aprotinin in 21(42%) and Tranexamic acid in 10 (20%). Mean blood loss in patients who received anti fibrinolytics was 530mls while mean blood loss in the other patients was 672mls. (p<
0.05). Blood transfusion was not required in any of the patients undergoing anterior correction only while 7 patients (41%) undergoing anterior and posterior correction and 3 patients (15.8%) undergoing posterior correction only required blood transfusion. Mean volume of cell saved blood re-transfused was 693.8 mls and mean hospital stay was 9.2 days. Mean pre-op haemoglobin was 13.2 g/dl (10.4–17.4) and mean post-op haemoglobin was 10.7 g/dl (7.7–15). 4 patients (8%) required intra and post-operative blood transfusion while 6 patients (12%) required blood transfusion postoperatively. In conclusion, the use of anti-fibrinolytics like Aprotinin and Tranexamic acid reduces blood loss in scoliosis surgery. In the current scenario, with Aprotinin no longer available for use, our study would recommend the use of Tranexamic acid alongwith other blood conservation measures. In our unit we do not have blood cross matched for anterior surgery alone.
On review of the 550 other scans the average age was 51.9 years old. The incidence of SBO within this group is 10%. Only 6% of these patients were under 18. Out of these 33 patients 30.3% (10 patients) had SBO. Over 18 the incidence of SBO was only 8.5%.
39% of patients felt they were inadequately informed or not informed of the nature of scar. However, over 50% of those who had a specialist spinal nurse (SSN) consultation reported the scar to be as they expected. Scar length was the main source of disappointment. 55% reported their scars as being raised (keloid), particularly at the ends. Scar colour and shape was an issue for 23%, whilst 39% experienced prolonged healing. 19 patients had a pre-op consultation with the SSN, 11 did not get this opportunity, 1 declined.
In a high-risk technically advanced speciality like spine surgery, detailed information about all aspects of possible complications could be frightening for the patients, and thereby increase anxiety and distress. Therefore, aim of this study was to
Analyze written evidence of the consenting procedure pertaining to (a) nature of operation (b) benefits intended as a result of the operation (c) risks specific to the particular type of operation (c) general risks of spine surgery and anaestheia. Patients’ experiences of information regarding the risk of such complications and how the information affects the patients.
The study had a non-randomized design and patients divided into TWO groups Group A and group B. The patients in the group A received standard information and were consented in a routine way without being given written proforma with all complications. The patients in the group B were given the same information as patients in the control group, with written information about common and rare complications. Patients in both groups were assessed on an ‘impact of events scale’ and hospital anxiety and depression scale immediately before ad after the consent process and again after surgery when they were discharged from the hospital. For comparison of the proportion of Yes and No answers in 2 groups, Fisher’s exact test was used, and for comparison of more than 2 groups, the Chi-square test was used. For graded answers and other ordinal scales, the Mann–Whitney U-test was used for comparison of 2 groups and the Kruskal–Wallis test for comparison of more than 2 groups. Spearman’s test was used when assessing the correlation between 2 variables measured on an ordinal scale.
In our unit we do not have blood cross matched for anterior surgery alone.
Idiopathic anterior knee pain (AKP) is common in adolescents and young adults. Most believe that the origin of the problem lies in the patello-femoral joint. Hamstring tightness has also been attributed as an important cause. The aim of our study was to compare biometric parameters in patients with idiopathic AKP and controls. We also wanted to assess whether there was a difference in the relative electromyographic (EMG) onset times of the medial and lateral hamstrings. We prospectively recruited patients with idiopathic anterior knee pain in the age group 11 to 25. Patients, but not the control population, had AP, lateral and skyline radiographs taken to rule out other pathology. We had 34 patients (60 knees) with a minimum one year follow up. There was no difference in the symptoms of patients who attended physiotherapy as compared to those who did not. Patients with knee pain had significantly more hip external rotation (63 deg) as compared to the control (47 deg) group (p=0.001). Patients also had significantly more hamstring tightness (p=0.04). Surface EMG was recorded (17 patients and controls each) from the medial and lateral hamstrings during 3 repetitions of a maximal voluntary isometric contraction exercise with the knee at 45° of flexion. The lateral hamstrings contracted 48.7 m.sec earlier than the medial hamstrings in patients as compared to controls. AKP is a multifactorial and self-limiting disorder. Earlier contraction of the lateral hamstrings may cause tibial external rotation and contribute to the symptoms. Our data suggests that physiotherapy did not significantly alter the course of the condition. We believe that increased hip external rotation may contribute to the symptoms by increasing medial facet stress.
Anterior Lumbar Interbody Cages are used to recreate the lumbar lordosis in scoliosis surgery as anterior instrumentation is usually kyphogenic. We report two cases in which an anterior release was performed and interbody cages were used.In both these patients the cage was displaced anteriorly by an incorrectly positioned pedicle screw during posterior instrumentaion. In one case the cage was retrieved and correctly repositioned from the back using a TLIF approach, in the other this was noticed only post-operatively and patient needed another anterior surgery. We recommend a lateral Image Intensifier screening for combined anterior and posterior cases in which anterior cages are used in addition to posterior pedicle screws to prevent this complication.
Routine inclusion of imaging of the SI joint as part of lumbosacral spine MRI for back pain and sciatica shows only 3% positive results. SI joint should be imaged only if clinically suspected.
Paravertebral anaesthesia is a particularly effective, safe and reliable option in scoliosis patients undergoing anterior release in whom percutaneous epidural placement may be difficult to perform. A recent systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials has demonstrated that whilst paravertebral block and thoracic epidural insertion provide comparable pain relief after thoracic surgery, paravertebral block placement is associated with a better side effect profile, including a reduction in pulmonary complications, hypotension, nausea and vomiting and urinary retention. We describe a case of a 16 year old female patient who underwent staged correction of her thoracolumbar scoliosis. A paravertebral catheter was inserted under direct vision for continuous infusion post operative analgesia following the anterior release. 48 hours after surgery a swelling was noted in the groin, which was confirmed with ultrasonography as a fluid collection. The swelling resolved upon removing the paravertebral catheter. This suggests that it was caused by the local anaesthetic fluid tracking along the psoas muscle. Retroperitoneal infections, venous thrombosis, femoral hernia, femoral artery aneurysm and inguinal lymphadenopathy are other differentials. Ultrasonography was a fast and sensitive investigation to rule out these differentials and determined that fluid communicating with the abdominal cavity was the cause for this swelling. The infused local anaesthetic had tracked down into the femoral triangle and the swelling resolved upon cessation of the infusion.
Average age was 6.5 years(2–12). Average follow-up was 24 months (6m-36m).
Five specimens were implanted for each group 1) with pedicle screw (into L3 and L5) and tested with/without Synex (expandable) cage anteriorly, 2) implanted with a Synex cage and Double screw+rod Ventrofix system, 3) Synex cage and Double screw+ Single rod Ventrofix construct and 4) Synex cage and Single screw+ Single rod Ventrofix system.
The double screw/ single rod system is less effective than the Ventrofix System but is comparable to the pedicle screw construct. The single screw/ single rod construct leads to unacceptable movement about the axis of the inferior screw particularly in extension with a ROM much greater than the intact spine (p<
0.001)
Pre and post procedure pain and physical function scores were noted using the standard SF 36 questionnaire, as well as whether subsequent surgery was required. Mean follow up time was seven months (range 2–13 months).
We have examined the outcome in 19 professional rugby union players who underwent anterior cervical discectomy and fusion between 1998 and 2003. Through a retrospective review of the medical records and telephone interviews of all 19 players, we have attempted to determine the likelihood of improvement, return to professional sport and the long-term consequences. We have also attempted to relate the probability of symptoms in the neck and radicular pain in the arm to the position of play. Neck and radicular pain were improved in 17 patients, with 13 returning to rugby, the majority by six months after operation. Of these, 13 returned to their pre-operative standard of play, one to a lower level and five have not played rugby again. Two of those who returned to the game have subsequently suffered further symptoms in the neck, one of whom was obliged to retire. The majority of the players with problems in the neck were front row forwards. A return to playing rugby union after surgery and fusion of the anterior cervical spine is both likely and safe and need not end a career in the game.
This prospective randomized multicenter study compares two methods of bone defect treatment in tibial plateau fractures: a bioresorbable calcium phosphate paste (Alpha-BSM) that hardens at body temperature to give structural support versus Autogenous iliac bone graft (AIBG). One hundred and eighteen patients were enrolled with a 2:1 randomization, Alpha-BSM to AIBG. There was a significant increased rate of non-graft related adverse affects and a higher rate of late articular subsidence (three to nine month period) in the AIBG group. A bioresorbable calcium phosphate material is recommended in preference to the gold standard of AIBG for bone defects in tibial plateau fractures. This prospective randomized multicenter study was undertaken to compare two methods of bone defect treatment: a bioresorbable calcium phosphate paste (Alpha-BSM –DePuy, Warsaw, IN) that hardens at body temperature to give structural support and is gradually resorbed by a cell-mediated bone regenerating mechanism versus Autogenous iliac bone graft (AIBG). One hundred and eighteen adult acute closed tibial plateau fractures, Schatzker grade two to six were enrolled prospectively from thirteen study sites in North America from 1999 to 2002. Randomization occurred at surgery with a FDA recommendation of a 2–1 ratio, Alpha BSM (seventy-eight fractures) to AIBG (forty fractures). Only internal fixation with standard plate and screw constructs was permitted. Follow-up included standard radiographs and functional studies at one year, with a radiologist providing independent radiographic review. The two groups exhibited no significant differences in randomization as to age, sex, race, fracture patterns or fracture healing. There was however, a significant increased rate of non-graft related adverse affects in the AIBG group. There was an unexpected significant finding of a higher rate of late articular subsidence in the three to nine month period in the AIBG group. Recommendations for the use of AIBG for bone defects in tibial plateau fractures should be discouraged in favor of bioresorbable calcium phosphate material with the properties of Alpha BSM. We believe further randomized studies using AIBG as a control group for bone defect support of articular fractures are unjustified. A bioresorbable calcium phosphate material is recommended in preference to the gold standard of AIBG for bone defects in tibial plateau fractures.
All patients underwent staging and follow up at Sarcoma Clinic with functional assessment and TESS evaluation.
Nine patients underwent planned marginal excision. Sciatic nerve involvement was 13–30cm in eight cases and in one case the sciatic nerve was abutting the tumour throughout its length. There was soft tissue reconstruction in three cases using fascial adductor or gracilis graft for sciatic nerve cover and one with superficial femoral nerve and vein resection requiring ipsilateral saphenous reconstruction. The remainder underwent direct primary reconstruction. Four patients underwent radiotherapy 46–60 Gy. There was no local recurrence of disease within 14 – 96m follow-up. There was one patient with post radiation wound breakdown that resolved. Three patients have died of unrelated causes. To date there has been no evidence of local recurrence of disease at FU.
We propose a grading system for contrast free MRI images of tennis elbow and evaluate the inter and intra observer variability of their interpretation.
Our proposed grading system of 1 to 5 based on the pattern around the common extensor tendon was used. Images of the symptomatic and contralateral non symptomatic elbows were graded blindly twice with an interval of 1 month by each surgeon. Each surgeon graded 176 MRI images twice. The grades were subsequently grouped into (I) grades 1 to 2 and (II) grades 3 to 5
The inter observer agreement between consultant A and B was 82.46%, between A and C 67.1% and between B and C 80.1%. It was also noted that there were systematic differences to the inter observer variability. Consultant A graded the images 3 to 5 on both occasions 52.9% of the time, consultant B graded 3 to 5 on both occasions 37.8% of the time and consultant C graded 3 to 5 on both occasions 23.3% of the time.
Over a five year period 50 patients required combined orthoplastic care out of 987 patients presenting with bone and soft tissue tumours. Thirty men, mean age 51 years, had their treatment reviewed at a mean follow up of 23 months (3–54 months) post surgery. All surviving patients completed the Toronto Extremity Salvage Score. There were 23 bone and 27 soft tissue sarcomas, 4 were Enneking stage I, 41 stage II and 5 stage III. All tumours were removed by wide resection to achieve microscopically clear margins in 49. 9 endoprostheses were inserted. Soft tissue reconstruction involved 9 local flaps, 13 distant flaps (mainly muscle) and 8 free flaps (including 3 composite osseous flaps). 20 patients received adjuvant radiotherapy and 14 patients received chemotherapy. Two endoprosthetic replacements required surgery for infection, one distant lap and one free flap required further surgery (6%). The mean disease free interval was 29 months (2–49 months). There were 6 deaths and pulmonary metastases occurred in a further 8 patients. Within this study period there was one episode of local recurrence, but no local recurrence in the group that had radiotherapy. 77% of surviving patients completed the Toronto Extremity Salvage Score and good to excellent function was seen in most cases. Combined orthoplastic approach facilitates limb sparing surgery and early adjuvant radiotherapy.