Aims

The aim of this study was to identify risk factors for recurrent instability of the shoulder and assess the ability to return to sport in patients with engaging Hill-Sachs lesions treated with arthroscopic Bankart repair and Hill-Sachs remplissage (ABR-HSR).

Aims

We aimed to address the question on whether there is a place for shoulder stabilization surgery in patients who had voluntary posterior instability starting in childhood and adolescence, and later becoming involuntary and uncontrollable.

Aims

The aim of this study was to report the outcomes of different treatment options for glenoid loosening following reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) at a minimum follow-up of two years.

Aims

Controversy about the use of an anatomical total shoulder arthroplasty (aTSA) in young arthritic patients relates to which is the ideal form of fixation for the glenoid component: cemented or cementless. This study aimed to evaluate implant survival of aTSA when used in patients aged < 60 years with primary glenohumeral osteoarthritis (OA), and to compare the survival of cemented all-polyethylene and cementless metal-backed glenoid components.

Aims

The aim of this study was to analyze the results of reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) in patients with type 1 sequelae of a fracture of the proximal humerus in association with rotator cuff deficiency or severe stiffness of the shoulder.

Introduction

Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty (rTSA) is an efficient treatment, to relieve from pain and to increase function. However, scapular notching remains a serious issue and post-operative range of motion (ROM) presents many variations. No study compared implant positioning, different implant combinations, different implant sizes on different types of patient representative to undergo for rTSA, on glenohumeral ROM in every degree of freedom.

Aims

Restoring the pre-morbid anatomy of the proximal humerus is a goal of anatomical shoulder arthroplasty, but reliance is placed on the surgeon’s experience and on anatomical estimations. The purpose of this study was to present a novel method, ‘Statistical Shape Modelling’, which accurately predicts the pre-morbid proximal humeral anatomy and calculates the 3D geometric parameters needed to restore normal anatomy in patients with severe degenerative osteoarthritis or a fracture of the proximal humerus.

Aims

Patient-specific glenoid guides (PSGs) claim an improvement in accuracy and reproducibility of the positioning of components in total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). The results have not yet been confirmed in a prospective clinical trial. Our aim was to assess whether the use of PSGs in patients with osteoarthritis of the shoulder would allow accurate and reliable implantation of the glenoid component.

BACKGROUND:

Bony increased-offset reverse shoulder arthroplasty (BIO-RSA) creates a long-necked scapula, providing the benefits of lateralization. Experience with allogenic bone grafting of the glenoid in shoulder arthroplasty is mainly based on its use with total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). Therefore, our study objectives were: 1) verify if the use of BIO-RSA together with glenoid surface grafting with allogenic bone would provide similar benefits (clinical and functional) as found with autologous bone, 2) determine if allograft could be a good alternative in the absence of (good quality) autograft bone, and 3) to see if the allograft would incorporate with the native glenoid bone.

BACKGROUND:

Bony healing of tuberosities around shoulder prostheses is difficult to obtain in the elderly patient. We hypothesized that reattachment of the tuberosities, performed in combination with bone grafting, around a specific reverse shoulder fracture-prosthesis (RSFP) would favour improved tuberosity healing and shoulder mobility in elderly patients with displaced proximal humerus fractures.

Introduction:

Lateralization of reversed shoulder arthroplasty provides improvement in range of motion and decreases inferior scapular notching. The purpose of this study was to verify if the autologous cancelous bone graft harvested from the humeral head does heal constantly in a large cohort of patients followed for a long time

Osteoarthritis results in changes in the dimensions of the glenoid. This study aimed to assess the size and radius of curvature of arthritic glenoids. A total of 145 CT scans were analysed, performed as part of routine pre-operative assessment before total shoulder replacement in 91 women and 54 men. Only patients with primary osteoarthritis and a concentric glenoid were included in the study. The CT scans underwent three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction and were analysed using dedicated computer software. The measurements consisted of maximum superoinferior height, anteroposterior width and a best-fit sphere radius of curvature of the glenoid.

The mean height was 40.2 mm (sd 4.9), the mean width was 29 mm (sd 4.3) and the mean radius of curvature was 35.4 mm (sd 7.8). The measurements were statistically different in men and women and had a Gaussian distribution with marked variation. All measurements were greater than the known values in normal subjects.

With current shoulder replacement systems using a unique backside radius of curvature for the glenoid component, there is a risk of undertaking excessive reaming to adapt the bone to the component resulting in sacrifice of subchondral bone or under-reaming and instability of the component due to a ’rocking horse‘ phenomenon.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1377–82.

The indications for reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) continue to be expanded. Associated impairment of the deltoid muscle has been considered a contraindication to its use, as function of the RSA depends on the deltoid and impairment of the deltoid may increase the risk of dislocation. The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the functional outcome and risk of dislocation following the use of an RSA in patients with impaired deltoid function. Between 1999 and 2010, 49 patients (49 shoulders) with impairment of the deltoid underwent RSA and were reviewed at a mean of 38 months (12 to 142) post-operatively. There were nine post-operative complications (18%), including two dislocations. The mean forward elevation improved from 50° (sd 38; 0° to 150°) pre-operatively to 121° (sd 40; 0° to 170°) at final follow-up (p < 0.001). The mean Constant score improved from 24 (sd 12; 2 to 51) to 58 (sd 17; 16 to 83) (p < 0.001). The mean Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score was 71 (sd 17; 10 to 95) and the rate of patient satisfaction was 98% (48 of 49) at final follow-up.

These results suggest that pre-operative deltoid impairment, in certain circumstances, is not an absolute contraindication to RSA. This form of treatment can yield reliable improvement in function without excessive risk of post-operative dislocation.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1106–13.

INTRODUCTION

The glenoid version assessment is crucial step for any Total Shoulder Arthroplasty (TSA) procedure. New methods to compute 3D version angle of the glenoid have been proposed. These methods proposed different definitions of the glenoid plane and only used 3 points to define each plane on the 3D model of the scapula. In practice, patients often come to consultation with their CT-scans. In order to reduce the x-ray dose, the scapulae are often truncated on the inferior part. In these cases, the traditional scapula plane cannot be calculated. We hypothesised that a new plane definition, of the scapula and the glenoid, that takes into account all the 3D points, would have the least variation and provide more reliable measures whatever the scapula is truncated or not. The purpose of the study is to introduce new fully automatic method to compute 3D glenoid version for TSA preoperating planning and test its results on artificially truncated scapulae.

For any image guided surgery, independently of the technique which is used (navigation, templates, robotics), it is necessary to get a 3D bone surface model from CT or MR images. Such model is used for planning, registration and visualization. We report that graphical representation of patient bony structure and the surgical tools, inter-connectively with the tracking device and patient-to-image registration, are crucial components in such system. For Total Shoulder Arthroplasty (TSA), there are many challenges. The most of cases that we are working with are pathological cases such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis disease. The CT images of these cases often show a fusion area between the glenoid cavity and the humeral head. They also show severe deformations of the humeral head surface that result in a loss of contours. These fusion area and image quality problems are also amplified by well-known CT-scan artefacts like beam-hardening or partial volume effects. The state of the art shows that several segmentation techniques, applied to CT-Scans of the shoulder, have already been disclosed. Unfortunately, their performances, when used on pathological data, are quite poor.

In severe cases, bone-on-bone arthritis may lead to erosion-wearing away of the bone. Shoulder replacement surgery, also called shoulder arthroplasty, is a successful, pain-relieving option for many people. During the procedure, the humeral head and the glenoid bone are replaced with metal and plastic components to alleviate pain and improve function. This surgical procedure is very difficult and limited to expert centres. The two main problems are the minimal surgical incision and limited access to the operated structures. The success of such procedure is related to optimal prosthesis positioning. For TSA, separating the humeral head in the 3D scanner images would allow enhancing the vision field for the surgeon on the glenoid surface. So far, none of the existing systems or software packages makes it possible to obtain such 3D surface model automatically from CT images and this is probably one of the reasons for very limited success of Computer Assisted Orthopaedic Surgery (CAOS) applications for shoulder surgery. This kind of application often has been limited due to CT-image segmentation for severe pathologic cases and patient to image registration.

The aim of this paper is to present a new image guided planning software based on CT scan of the patient and using bony structure recognition, morphological and anatomical analysis for the operated region. Volumetric preoperative CT datasets have been used to derive a surface model shape of the shoulder. The proposed planning software could be used with a conventional localisation system, which locates in 3D and in real time position and orientation for surgical tools using passive markers associated to rigid bodies that will be fixed on the patient bone and on the surgical instruments.

20 series of patients aged from 42 years to 91 years (mean age of 71 years) were analysed. The first step of this planning software is fully automatic segmentation method based on 3D shape recognition algorithms applied to each object detected in the volume. The second step is a specific processing that only treats the region between the humerus and the glenoid surface in order to separate possible contact areas. The third step is a full morphological analysis of anatomical structure of the bone. The glenoid surface and the glenoid vault are detected and a 3D version and inclination angle of the glenoid surface are computed. These parameters are very important to define an optimal path for drilling and reaming glenoid surface. The surgeon can easily modify the position of the implant in 3D aided by 3D and 2D view of the patient anatomy. The glenoid version/inclination angle and the glenoid vault are computed for each postion in real time to help the surgeon to evaluate the implant position and orientation.

In summary, preoperative planning, 3D CT modelling and intraoperative tracking produced improved accuracy of glenoid implantation. The current paper has presented new planning software in the world of image guided surgery focused on shoulder arthroplasty. Within our approach, we propose, to use pattern recognition instead of manual picking of landmarks to avoid user intervention, in addition to potentially reducing the procedure time. A very important role is played by 3D data sets to visualise specific anatomical structures of the patient. The automatic segmentation of arthritic joints with bone recognition is intended to form a solid basis for the registration. The results of this methodology were tested on arthritic patients to prove that it is not just easy and fast to perform but also very accurate so it realises all conditions for the clinical use in OR.

Purpose

While reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) corrects vertical muscle imbalance, it cannot restore the horizontal imbalance seen in cuff-deficient shoulders with combined loss of active elevation and external rotation (CLEER). We report the medium-term results of the modified latissimus dorsi/teres major tendon transfer (L'Episcopo procedure) associated with RSA, performed via a single deltopectoral approach.

Purpose

to analyze the survivorship of the RSA with a minimum 10 years follow up.

Purpose

While treating fracture sequelae (FS) with unconstrained prostheses has been shown to give inferior or unpredictable outcomes, the literature is still scant regarding their treatment with reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA). This study was performed to determine the suitability of RSA as a solution for FS with severe tuberosity malunion/nonunion and rotator cuff dysfunction, and to identify any useful preoperative prognostic factors.

Purpose

To describe the geometric variables of the posterosuperior humeral-head (Hill-Sachs) lesion and analyze their relationship with patient clinical variables.

Introduction

the aim of this study was to analyse the long-term radiological changes following tsa in order to better understand the mechanisms responsible for loosening.

Purpose of the study: Platelet rich fibrin (PRF) favours proliferation of tenocytes and synthesis of extracellular matrix. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the technical feasibility of adding a PRF envelope during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair to favour short-term vascularisation of the tendon-trochiter zone vascularization.

Material and method: Twenty patients aged over 55 years with a posterosuperior rotator cuff tear were included in this prospective randomized controlled study. The double strand technique was used for all patients. Patients were selected at random for insertion of a PRF envelope between the tendon and the trochiter. There were thus two groups of ten patients. The SSV, SST, VAS and Constant scores were noted. Vascularization was assessed with Power Doppler ultrasound at 6 weeks and 3 months by an independent operator unaware of the study group.

Results: There were no complications during or after the operations. Postoperatively, all patients increased their SSV, SST, VAS and Constant scores significantly. Vascularization of the tendon-trochiter zone, as assessed by Power Doppler, was significantly higher in the PRF group at 6 weeks. It was unchanged in the two groups at 3 months.

Discussion: Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with adjunction of a PRF envelope is technically feasible and increases vascularizaton of the tendon-trochiter zone at 6 weeks.

Conclusion: PRF can improve the tendon healing rate for rotator cuff tears.

Purpose of the study: Posterior fracture-impaction of the humeral head (Hill-Sachs defect or Malgainge notch) is a well-known factor of failure for arthroscopic shoulder stabilisation procedures. Recently, Wolf proposed arthroscopic posterior capsulodesis and tenodesis of the infraspinatus, or what we call in French Hill-Sachs Remplissage (filling). We hypothesised that capsule and tendon healing within the bony defect could explain the efficacy of this arthroscopic technique.

Material and methods: Prospective clinical study of a continuous series. Inclusion criteria:

recurrent anterior instability (dislocation or subluxation);

Exclusion criteria:

associated bone loss in the glenoid;

Twenty shoulders (20 patients) met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and underwent Hill-Sachs remplissage. Four orthopaedic surgeons evaluated independently the soft tissue healing in the humeral defect. Mann-Whitney analysis was used to search for a link between rate of healing and clinical outcome.

Results: Filling of the humeral defect reached 75 to 100% in 16 patients (80%°; it was 50–75% in 4 patients. Healing was never noted less than 50%. The short-term clinical outcome (mean follow-up 11.4 months, range 6–32) showed an excellent results as assessed by the Constant score (mean 92±8.9 points) and the Walch-Duplay score (91 points). The subjective shoulder value (SSV) was 50% preoperatively and 89% at last follow-up. There were no cases of recurrent instability. This study was unable to establish a relationship between minor healing and less favourable clinical outcome.

Discussion: This study confirmed our hypothesis that arthroscopic Hill-Sachs remplissage provides a high rate of significant healing in a majority of patients. Capsule and tendon healing in the humeral defect yields significant shoulder stability via at least two mechanisms:

prevention of defect engagement on the anterior border of the glenoid and

Further mid- and long-term results will be needed to establish a confirmed correlation between healing and clinical outcome.

Purpose of the study: Palliative treatment for unreparable rotator cuff tears by intra-articular resection of the long head of the biceps provides demonstrated satisfactory results. We hypothesized that associated acromioplasty could be deleterious.

Material and method: We conducted a case-control study comparing 24 tenotomies or tenodeses of the long head of the biceps with 24 tenotomies or tenodeses of the long head of the biceps associated with acromioplasty. All patients had an unreparable tear of the rotator cuff. Full-thickness tear of the subscapularis or Hamada and Fukuda radiological stage 3 or 4 tear were exclusion criteria. The two groups were matched for weighted Constant score, Hamada and Fukuda stage, type of tear of the infraspinatus and subscapularis, overall fatty infiltration grade, and follow-up. After the physical examination, we compared the four items of the Constant score, the absolute and weighted score, active anterior elevation, pain score on a visual analogue scale (VAS), and the subjective shoulder score. All patients were examined by a clinician unaware of the group at last follow-up (mean 51 months).

Results: The two groups were comparable preoperatively except for the fatty infiltration index which was higher in the acromioplasty group. At 51 months follow-up, active anterior elevation was statistically lower in the acromioplasty group (145 versus 170). The absolute and weighted Constant scores were lower in the acromioplasty group (p< 0.05). There was no difference for pain and the subjective shoulder score (67 versus 71). Four patients in the acromioplasty group required revision total shoulder arthroplasty versus two in the group without acromioplasty.

Discussion: Association of acromioplasty with intra-articular resection of the long head of the biceps for palliative treatment of unreparable rotator cuff tears is deleterious for elevation and reduces overall shoulder function. Even though acromioplasty provides good short-term results for average-sized tears, outcome is less satisfactory for massive tears and deteriorates over time. In addition, as described by Wiley, acromioplasty can induce a pseudoparalytic shoulder in patients with unreparable tears.

Purpose of the study: The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility and reproducibility of a new arthroscopic procedure combining a Bristow-Latarjet lock with Bankart reinsertion of the lambrum.

Material and methods: Forty-seven consecutive patients with significant bone defects in the glenoid and a deficient capsule were treated arthroscopically: arthroscopic Bankart had failed in six. The procedure was performed exclusively arthroscopically using a special instrumentation: after its osteotomy and identification of the axiallary nerve, the coracoids was passed through the subcapular muscle with its tendon; the block was fixed on the scapular neck after 90° lateral rotation so as to prolong the natural concavity of the glenoid. Anchors and sutures were then used to refix the capsule and the labrum onto the glenoid border, leaving the block in an extra-articular position. Follow-up included a physical examination and standard x-rays at 45, 90 and 180 days; 31 patients had a postoperative scan. Three independent operators read the images.

Results: The procedure was completed arthroscopically in 41 of 47 patients (8%); conversion to a deltopectoral approach was required for six patients (12%). The axillary nerve was successfully identified in all shoulders. The block had a subequatorial position in 98% (46/47 shoulders) and equatorial in one. The block was tangent to the surface of the glenoid in 92% (43/47), lateral in one (2%) and too medial (> 5mm) in three (6%). One patient presented an early fracture of the block and five patients exhibited block migration; there was a partial lysis of the block in two patients. The final rate of nonunion of the block was 13% (6/47). Fractures, migrations and non-unions were related to technical errors: screws too short (unicortical) and/or poorly centred in the block.

Conclusion: Our results show that arthroscopic transfer of the coracoids to the scapular neck is a safe and successful operation. The rate of correctly positioned healed blocks was equivalent or superior to conventional techniques. The complications observed show that the arthroscopic block technique is difficult with a long learning curve.

Purpose of the study: Optimal management of proximal fractures of the humerus remains a subject of debate. We conducted a prospective epidemiological study to identify injuries encountered, determine the reproducibility of reference classifications and their pertinence for therapeutic decision making.

Material and methods: All patients presenting a proximal fracture of the humerus admitted to a teaching hospital from November 2007 to November 2008 were included using a standardised computer form. A CT-scan was obtained if necessary. Fractures were classified by three senior observers (CP, GM, AR) according to the Neer and AO classifications.

Results: Two hundred forty-seven fractures were collected in 75 men (30%) and 172 women (70%), mean age 66 years (18–97). There were 112 fractures on the dominant side (45%). Two patients had vessel injury and one an associated injury of the brachial plexus. One patient had an isolated injury to the axillary nerve. According to the Neer classification which describes 15 types of fractures, there was little or no displacement or 38% of the fractures and 97.5% of the fractures were classified within six groups: little or no displacement, surgical neck, trochiter fracture alone or with anterior dislocation, 3 or 4 fragment fractures. Using the nine subtypes of the AO classification, there were 58 A1, 55 A2, 42 A3, 43 B1, 9 B2, 5 B3, 14 C1, 18 C2 and 3 C3. Groups A and B included 88% of the fractures. Regarding the CT-scan, obtained in 40% of patients, changed the radiographic interpretation in six cases. Interobserver reproducibility was good. Orthopaedic treatment was given for 203 patients (82%). Operations were: fixation of the tuberosities (n=7), anterograde nailing (n=29), hemiarthroplasty (n=6), reversed prosthesis (n=2).

Discussion: This distribution of fractures of the proximal humerus corresponds well with data in the literature. Good quality x-rays can provide adequate classification without a CT-scan for the majority of patients. The classification systems currently used are quite exhaustive although the distribution in the subgroups is not homogeneous.

Purpose: The “Hill-Sachs Remplissage” (HSR) is a procedure used in the treatment of anterior shoulder instability associated with an engaging Hill-Sachs (HS) defect. It consists of an arthroscopic capsulotenodesis of the posterior capsule and infraspinatus tendon within the defect. There is currently no evidence that the capsule and tendon heal in the humeral bone defect. Our hypotheses were

that the capsulotenodesis heals in the HS defect and fills at least 50% of its area; and,

Method: Prospective clinical study. Inclusion criteria:

recurrent anterior shoulder instability;

Exclusion criteria:

glenoid bone loss;

Twenty-nine patients underwent an arthroscopic Bankart repair plus HSR. Clinical assessment at a mean follow up of 13.1 months (range 6 to 32 months) consisted of a structured interview and detailed physical examination including range of motion compare to the contralateral shoulder and instability signs. Range of motion was analyzed in two groups according to length of follow-up, Group 1 with less than 12 months follow-up (14 patients); and Group 2 with greater than 12 months follow-up (15 patients). Either a CT arthrogram (25 patients) or an Arthro-MRI (2 patient) was performed at a minimum of six months postoperatively. Four orthopaedic surgeons analyzed the images independently to determine the percentage of healing of the capsulotenodesis.

Results: There was no recurrence of instability at the latest follow-up. There was no statistically significant deficit in forward elevation in either group. Group 1 patients had statistically significant mean deficits as compared to the contralateral side of 15 degrees of external rotation in adduction (ER1), 15 degrees of external rotation at 90 degrees of abduction (ER2), and 1.1 points of internal rotation in adduction according to the Constant score system (ER1). Group 2 patients had statistically significant mean deficits of 4 degrees of ER1 and 11 degrees of ER2, with no significant difference in IR1. There was healing of the capsulotenodesis within the bone defect in all twenty-seven patients. The bone defect was filled more than 75% of its surface in 22 of 29 patients (76%). The remaining seven had between 50 and 75% filling (24%). There was no defect filling of less than 50% in this study.

Conclusion: We demonstrated greater than 50% HS defect filling in all patients in our series after an arthroscopic “Hill-Sachs Remplissage” and filling > 75% in 22 of 29 (76%). Modest deficits of external rotation were demonstrated at greater than 12 months follow-up. While these results suggest that the technical goal of HS defect filling is achievable, longer term studies are necessary to establish whether there is an association between the rate of healing, the functional impairment of external rotation and clinical outcomes.

Purpose: The objective of this study was to analyze the clinical results of arthroscopic release for the treatment of shoulder stiffness and to report the results according to etiology.

Method: Thirty cases were reviewed in 29 patients with a mean age of 48 years [range, 25–75]. The mean time from diagnosis to surgery was 37.5 months [range, 6–120]. The stiffness was considered idiopathic (i.e. frozen shoulder) (10 cases), post-traumatic (eight cases) or post-surgical (12 cases). The release consisted of 14 rotator interval resections, four anterior capsulotomies, 20 anterior and inferior capsulotomies, three tenotomies of the superior portion of the subscapularis, and 11 biceps tenotomies or tenodeses. In 26 cases, associated extra-articular procedures were also performed, including 22 subacromial bursectomies and four acromioplasties. Patients were reviewed at a mean follow-up of 44 months [range, 12–99].

Results: Eighty-nine percent were satisfied or very satisfied. The mean Subjective Shoulder Value was 76%. The mean Constant score increased from 40 ± 13 points preoperatively to 74 ± 16 points postoperatively (p< 0.05).

Conclusion: Arthroscopic shoulder release is effective for pain relief and improved function. The recovery of motion is better in idiopathic stiffness (i.e. frozen shoulder) than in post-traumatic and post-surgical stiffness. Resection of the rotator interval seems effective to restore external rotation and elevation.

Purpose: We hypothesized that lateralization of the RSA, with a glenoid bone graft taken from the osteotomised humeral head, would prevent those problems without increasing torque on the glenoid component by keeping the center of rotation within the glenoid. The objectives of this study were to describe the results of the first 12 patients that underwent a bony increased-offset RSA (BIO RSA).

Method: Thirty-six shoulders in 34 consecutive patients with cuff tear arthritis (mean age 72 years, range 52–86 years) received a BIO RSA, consisted of a RSA incorporating an autogenous humeral head bone graft placed beneath the glenoid baseplate. A baseplate with a lengthened central peg (+25 mm) was inserted in the glenoid vault, securing the bone graft beneath the baseplate and screws. All patients underwent clinical and radiographic (computed tomography) review at a minimum 1-year follow-up.

Results: All patients were satisfied or very satisfied and all had no or slight pain. Mean active elevation increased from 72° to 142° (p< 0.05), external rotation from 10° to 18° (p< 0.05) and internal rotation from L4 to L3 (p> 0.05). Constant Score improved from 27 to 63 points (p< 0.05). The Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV) increased from 27% to 73% (p< 0.05). Radiographically, the graft healed to the native glenoid in all cases and no graft resorption under the baseplate was observed. Complications included one patient with scapular notching (stage 1) and one patient with previous radiotherapy had a deep infection. No postoperative instability, and no glenoid loosening were observed.

Conclusion: The use of an autologous bone graft harvested from the humeral head can lateralize the center of rotation of a RSA while keeping the center of rotation at the glenoid bone-prosthesis interface. The clinical advantages of a BIO RSA are a decrease in scapular notching, enhanced stability and mobility, and improved shoulder contour while keeping the center of rotation at the glenoid bone-prosthesis interface. This bony lateralization allows maintenance of the principles of Grammont and seems to be more appropriate than prosthetic lateralization. These promising early results of this novel procedure warrant further investigation.

Purpose: Shoulder pain in the young athlete is often a diagnostic challenge. It is our experience that this pain can be related to a so-called “unstable painful shoulder” (UPS), defined as instability presenting in a purely painful form, without any history of instability but with anatomical (soft tissue or bony) ‘roll-over’ lesions. The objectives are to describe the epidemiology and diagnostic criteria and to report the results of surgical treatment.

Method: A prospective review was performed of 20 patients (mean age 22 ± 8 years). Inclusion criteria: a painful shoulder and “roll-over lesions” on imaging or at surgery. Exclusion criteria: a dislocation/subluxation; associated pathology; previous shoulder surgery.

Results: Most patients were male (60%), athletes (85%) and involved the dominant arm (80%). All patients denied a feeling of instability and only complained of deep, anterior pain. Most had a history of trauma (80%). All patients had rehabilitation without success and 30% had subacromial injections. All had to stop sports. Most (85%) had anterior or inferior hyperlaxity. All had pain with an anterior apprehension test and relieved by relocation test. ‘Roll-over’ lesions included: labrum detachment (90%), capsular distension (75%), HAGL lesion (10%), glenoid fracture (20%) or Hill-Sachs (40%). Time from symptoms to surgery was 25 ± 23 months. All patients had arthroscopic treatment. Mean follow-up was 38 ± 14 months. Eighteen patients (90%) were very satisfied/satisfied. None had pain at rest, but one (5%) had pain with apprehension test. There was no change in elevation, external or internal rotation (p> 0.05). There were no cases of instability. Rowe and Duplay scores improved (p< 0.05).

Conclusion: Instability of the shoulder can present in a purely painful form, without any history of dislocations or subluxations. Diagnosis can be difficult, and should be suspected in young patients and athletes. Most patients have deep anterior pain and pain with apprehension test. ‘Roll-over’ lesions are necessary to confirm the diagnosis. Arthroscopic repair is effective.

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.

Purpose of the study: Injury to the long head of the biceps is frequently associated with massive rotator cuff tears leading to pain and functional impotency. Tenotomy of the long biceps is a validated option for unrepairable cuff tears, but can lead to an unsatisfactory aesthetic result (Popeye sign) or functional impairment (loss of strength). The objectives of this study were to confirm the clinical efficacy of intra-articular resection of the long head of the biceps, to study the radiographic evolution, to evaluate aesthetic and functional outcome of tenotomy procedures and to compare them with those of tenodesis with an interference screw, an alternative to tenotomy.

Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 151 patients presenting an unrepairable rotator cuff tear. Tenotomy of the long head of the biceps was performed in 63 patients and tenodesis of the long head of the biceps using an interference screw in 88. Acromioplasty was also performed in 21 shoulders with the resection of the long head of the biceps. All patients were reviewed by an independent investigator at mean 63 months follow-up.

Results: Patient satisfaction was good or very good for 92%. The absolute Constant score improved from 47.4±13.8 points preoperatively to 70.8±12.2 points at last followup for the whole series, increasing on average 24.4 points (p< 0.05). There was no statistical difference for the Constant score between tenotomy and tenodesis. The subacromial space decreased 2±2.3 mm on average (p< 0.05). Degeneration of the glenohumeral joint was noted in 12% of shoulders at last follow-up. Retraction of the long head of the biceps (Popeye sign) were noted in 31% of patients with tenotomy and in 10% of those with tenodesis (p< 0.001). There were twice as many cases of brachial biceps cramps in the tenotomy group (24%) than in the tenodesis group (12%). Muscle force for elbow flexion in the supination position was greater in the tenodesis group than in the tenotomy group (p< 0.05).

Conclusion: Arthroscopic tenotomy or tenodesis of the long head of the biceps are valid therapeutic options for unrepairable rotator cuff tears. The efficacy of the two techniques is the same in terms of the objective outcome (Constant score) but tenodesis limits the aesthetic sequelae and preserves elbow flexion and supination force.

Introduction: The reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is becoming increasingly common and the indications expanded. The objective of this study is to report the indications and results of RSA in a large multicenter study.

Methodology: A retrospective, multicenter study was conducted including all RSA implanted between 1992 and 2002 in five centers in France. Of 457 patients involved in this study, 243 patients (53%) had cuff pathology: 149 had cuff tear arthropathy, 48 had massive cuff tears, and 45 had failed cuff surgery. Ninety-nine (22%) had revision of previous prostheses. Sixty (13%) had fracture-related problems. Twenty-six (6%) had osteoarthritis and two percent each had rheumatoid arthritis, tumors or other conditions. Three hundred and eighty-nine (85%) shoulders were available for review with greater than 2 years follow-up. The average age at review was 75.6 years (range, 22–92). The average follow-up was 43.5 months (range, 24–142).

Results: Significant improvement was noted in Constant scores for pain (3.5 to 12.1), activity (5.8 to 15.1), mobility (12.1 to 24.5), and strength (1.3 to 6.1) (p< .0001). Active elevation improved, but active internal and external rotation did not. The results were dependent on the indication. Cuff tear arthropathy had the best results while revision procedures had the worst. Young age, preoperative stiffness, teres minor deficiency, tuberosity non-union and preoperative complaints of pain rather than loss of function tended to be associated with inferior results. The deltopectoral approach tended toward greater active elevation but greater risk of instability. Survivorship to the endpoints of revision and loosening was better for patients with rotator cuff problems than for patients with failed prior hemiarthroplasty. The functional results were noted to deteriorate progressively after six years in the cuff tear group, after five years in the revision hemiarthroplasty group, after three years in the osteoarthritis group, and after one year in the revision total shoulder arthroplasty group.

Conclusions: The overall results of RSA are satisfactory and predictable. Functional results improved with improved active elevation, but no improvement in active internal and external rotation. However, results are dependent on the etiology.

Introduction: The goal of this study is to report the clinical and radiographic results of 2 types of implants used to treat 3 and 4 parts fractures of the proximal humerus.

Patients: Sixty-three patients (64 shoulders) were reviewed in this retrospective series. Forty women and 23 men were included, the mean age was 64 ± 12 (39–86). A group of 31 patients was managed with a ‘standard’ implant, a second group of 32 patients (33 shoulders) was managed with a ‘fracture’ implant. The delay between initial trauma and the surgical procedure was less than 4 weeks (1–30 days) for all patients.

Methods: All the procedures were carried out by a senior surgeon. The patients were reviewed by an independent observer with a mean follow-up of 59 ± 38 months (12–138) for a clinical and radiographic evaluation.

Results: In the ‘standard implant’ group; 84% of the patients were satisfied or very satisfied regarding the outcome of surgery. The subjective evaluation (SSV score) was 69% (30–100%). The active anterior elevation (AAE) was 117° ± 43° (30–180°), the active external rotation (AER) was 24° ± 20° (0–60°), the active internal rotation (AIR) was up to the T12 vertebra (buttocks-T8). The mean Constant score was 60 ± 20 points (24–95). The radiographic analysis revealed a greater tuberosity that was considered migrated, not healed or lysed in 65% of cases. The acromion – implant height was ≤ 7mm in 52% of the patients. In the ‘fracture implant’ group; all the patients were satisfied or very satisfied regarding the outcome of the surgery. The SSV score was 70% (20–100%). The AAE was 132° ± 36° (45–180°), the AER was 34° ± 16° (0–60°), the AIR was up to the L3 vertebra (buttocks-T8). The mean Constant score was 66 ± 16 points (33–95). The radiographic analysis revealed a greater tuberosity that was considered migrated, not healed or lysed in 33% of cases. The acromion – implant height was ≤ 7mm in 30% of the patients. The patients with a healed greater tuberosity in an adequate position had better Constant scores: 71 points versus 54 points for those with a greater tuberosity not healed/lysed or in a bad position (p=0.03). A healed greater tuberosity in an adequate position was obtained more constantly for the patients in the ‘fracture implant’ group (p=0.02).

Conclusion: A healed greater tuberosity in an adequate position is a significant parameter influencing the outcome of hemiarthroplasty for proximal humerus fractures. A fracture designed implant allows better greater tuberosity positioning and healing.

Purpose of the study: Injury of the long head of the biceps (LHB) can cause pain in rotator cuff tears (RCT). Our objectives were to:

establish an epidemiological database on LHB injuries in RCT;

Materials and Methods: Prospective, consecutive, multi-centric study (April 2005-June 2006). Inclusion criteria:

partial or full-thickness RCT demonstrated arthroscopically,

Other reasons for arthroscopy, past surgery and MRI were excluded. The dynamic examination consisted in a search for the incapacity to glide the LHB in its gutter during passive abduction of the arm leading to intra-articular fold (hourglass test) and instability of the LHB in its groove during external rotation (medial instability) or internal rotation (lateral instability) with the arm at 90° abduction (RE2 and RI2 tests). Extension of the RCT in the frontal and sagittal plane were determined using the classification of the French Arthroscopic Society.

Results: 378 patients (378 shoulders, 211 women, 167 men, mean age 57.9 years, age range 28–93 years). Arthroscan for 312 shoulders and arthroMR for 66 shoulders revealed 61 partial deep RCT and 317 full-thickness RCT. Among the full-thickness tears, 15 involved the subscapularis (SSc) alone, one the infraspinatus (ISp) alone and 301 the supraspinatus (SSp) alone (with 52 posterior extensions to the ISp, 90 anterior to the SSc and 31 mixted).

Epidemiological data (static test): LHB intact 21%, tenosynovitis 51%, hypertrophy 21%, delamination 12%, pre-tears 7%, subluxation 18%, dislocation 9%, tear 2%. No influence of age, gender or side operated. Conversely, the rate of lesions increased significantly with extention of the RCT in the frontal and sagittal plane.

Dynmaic study: positive hourglass test 29%, instability in RE2 26%, instability in RI2 8%. Hourglass test correlated with intra-articular hypertrophy of the LHB (76% versus 2%). Subscapularis tears lead to medial instability in 82% of cases. Among the 81 shoulders with an intact LBH statically, 17% presented a dynamic anomaly. In all the static and dynamic tests only left 18% of the LHB intact.

Imaging-dynamic arthroscopy correlation: 25% of LHB lesions were not diagnosed by injected imaging. Inversely, there was a good correlation to determine the position of the LHB in its groove.

Purpose: Partial rotator cuff tears are a frequent source of shoulder pain. At times, diagnosis is difficult and treatment unsuccessful. Historical treatment has involved open debridement when conservative treatment has failed. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of arthroscopic treatment of deep partial thickness tears of the supraspinatus tendon in patients over 40 years and to assess the healing radiographically.

Method: Forty-nine patients (mean age: 55 years) underwent treatment of a deep partial thickness tear of the supraspinatus tendon. Exclusion criteria: age < 40 years, associated instability, posterosuperior impingement or previous shoulder surgery. Patients were re-examined with a mean 32 months follow-up. For lesions involving less than 50% of the tendon thickness, an acromioplasty and either a debridement (n=39) or a side-to-side repair (n=3) was performed. For lesions involving greater than 50% of the tendon thickness (n=7), an acromioplasty and a trans-osseous repair was performed after completion of the tear. Twenty patients (41%) had an assessment of tendon healing by CT arthrogram, MRI or MR arthrogram, at a minimum 12 months post-operatively.

Results: Results were good or excellent in 90% of patients, and 94% were satisfied. The Constant score improved from 56 to 82 points (p< 0.0001) and the UCLA score improved from 15 to 30 points (p< 0.0001). Of the 31 patients employed preoperatively, three did not return to work; an occupational injury was predictive of a lower Constant score (p=0.02). Four out of 13 (31%) cases involving less than 50% of the tendon thickness healed and all cases (n=7) involving greater than 50% had healed.

Conclusion: Patients over 40 years with an isolated deep partial thickness tear of the supraspinatus tendon benefited both subjectively and objectively from arthroscopic intervention. For deep tears involving < 50% of the tendon thickness, resolution of pain and return to work is possible after acromioplasty and debridement. For deeper tears, completion of the tendon and reattachment to the greater tuberosity enables tendon healing.

Purpose: The reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is becoming increasingly common and the indications expanded. The objective of this study is to report the indications and results of RSA in a large multicenter study.

Method: A retrospective, multicenter study was conducted including all RSA implanted between 1992 and 2002 in five centers in France. Of 457 patients involved in this study, 243 patients (53%) had cuff pathology: 149 had cuff tear arthropathy, 48 had massive cuff tears, and 45 had failed cuff surgery. Ninety-nine (22%) had revision of a previous arthroplasty. Sixty (13%) had fracture-related problems. Twenty-six (6%) had osteoarthritis and two percent each had rheumatoid arthritis, tumors or other conditions. Three hundred and eighty-nine (85%) shoulders were available for review at a mean follow-up of 44 months (range, 24–142). The average age at review was 76 years (range, 22–92).

Results: Overall, significant improvement was noted in Constant scores for pain (3.5 to 12.1), activity (5.8 to 15.1), mobility (12.1 to 24.5) and strength (1.3 to 6.1) (p< 0.0001). Active elevation improved (p< 0.0001), but active internal and external rotation did not. The results were dependent on the indication. Cuff tear arthropathy had the best results while revision procedures had the worst. Young age, preoperative stiffness, teres minor deficiency, tuberosity non-union and preoperative complaints of pain rather than loss of function tended to be associated with inferior results. The deltopectoral approach tended toward greater active elevation but greater risk of instability. Survivorship to the endpoints of revision and loosening was better for patients with cuff tear pathology than for patients with failed prior hemiarthroplasty. The functional results were noted to deteriorate progressively after six years in the cuff tear pathology group, after five years in the revision hemiarthroplasty group, after three years in the osteoarthritis group, and after one year in the revision total shoulder arthroplasty group.

Conclusion: Overall results of RSA are satisfactory and predictable. Functional results improved with improved active elevation, but no improvement in active internal and external rotation. However, results are dependent on etiology.

The purpose of this study was two-fold: 1) to examine perioperative prospective changes in pain, disability and psychosocial variables in ACL reconstructed recreational athletes over the pre-op to eight week post-op period. 2) to see what variables will predict greatest disability at eight weeks post-op.

All participants were recreational athletes at the time of their injuries who had patella-autograft procedure at the the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre. Fifty-four patients (twenty-nine males; mean age = 25.4 years, SD = 8.08). Mean education was fourteen years (SD = 2.08), 32%(17) were married, 67%(36) single, and 1% was divorced. 94%(51) of the sample was Caucasian, 3%(2) Black, and 1% Asian. One quarter reported their ACL injury was due to sport-based contact, with non-contact sporting activity reported at 76%(41). All participants completed measures of pain, depression, pain catastrophizing, state anxiety pre-op, on days one and two following surgery and again at eight weeks post-op. Disability was assessed pre-op and eight weeks post-op.

Pain was varied across comparisons with preoperative pain increased twenty-four and forty-eight-hour post-op. Pain at forty-eight-hours postoperative was significantly higher than pain reported at eight-weeks post-op. Catastrophizing did not differ from the pre-op to twenty-four-hour post-op but did drop from twenty-four to forty-eight-hours and forty-eight-hours to eight-weeks post-op. Pre-op depression increased twenty-four-hour post-op, but not from twenty-four to forty-eight-hours and declined at eight-weeks. Anxiety increase pre-op to twenty-four-hours but not from twenty-four to forty-eight-hours but did drop from forty-eight-hours to eight-weeks.Disability did not change over time. Regression showed age or gender did not predict disability but forty-eight hour pain and catastrophizing did.

These data indicate that pain and psychological variables change over time of ACL recovery. Results suggest that pain and distress peek during acute post-op period. As well, post-op catastrophizing predicts disability at eight weeks post-op which may indicate that catastrophizing may be related to behaviours related to slower recovery following ACL reconstructive surgery.

The purpose of this study was to review the results of biceps tenodesis and biceps reinsertion in the treatment of type II SLAP lesions.

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of a continuous series of patients. Only isolated type II SLAP lesions were included: twenty-five cases from January 2000 to April 2004. Exclusion criteria included associated instability, rotator cuff rupture and previous shoulder surgery. Ten patients (ten men) with an average age of thirty-seven years (range, 19–57) had a reinsertion of the long head of the biceps tendon (LHB) to the labrum with two suture anchors. Fifteen patients (nine men and six women) with an average age of fifty-two years (range, 28–64) underwent biceps tenodesis in the bicipital groove. All patients were reviewed by an independent examiner.

In the reattachment group, the average follow-up was thirty-five months (range, 24–69); three patients underwent subsequent biceps tenodesis for persistent pain, three others were disappointed because of an inability to return to their previous level of sport, and the remaining four were very satisfied. The average Constant score improved from sixty-five to eighty-three points. In the tenodesis group, the average follow-up was thirty-four months (range, 24–68). No patient required revision surgery. Subjectively, one patient was disappointed (atypical residual pain), two were satisfied and twelve were very satisfied. All patients returned to their previous level of sports, and the average Constant score improved from fifty-nine to eighty-nine points.

The results of labral reattachment were disappointing in comparison to biceps tenodesis. Thus, arthroscopic biceps tenodesis can be considered as an effective alternative to reattachment in the treatment of isolated type II SLAP lesions. By moving the origin of the biceps to an extra-articular position, we eliminated the traction on the superior labrum and the source of pain; furthermore, range of motion and strength are unaltered allowing for a return to a pre-surgical level of activity.

The purpose was to evaluate the results of reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) in proximal humerus fracture sequelae (FS).

Multicenter retrospective series of forty-five consecutive patients operated between 1995 and 2003. Types of FS included: cephalic collapse and necrosis (n=8), chronic locked dislocation (n=5), surgical neck nonunion (n=7), severe malunion (twenty), and isolated greater tuberosity malunion (n=3). Twenty-six patients had surgical treatment of the initial fracture and seventeen had non-surgical treatment; thirty-three Delta and ten Aequalis reverse prosthesis were implanted. Mean age at surgery was seventy-three years (range, fifty-seven to eighty-six). Forty-three patients were available for clinical and radiologic evaluation with a mean follow-up of thirty-nine months (range, twenty-four to ninety-five).

Nine re-operations (21%) and ten complications (23%) were encountered, including four infections (leading to two resection-arthroplasties), two instabilities, one glenoid fracture (converted to hemiarthroplasty) and one axillary nerve palsy. Thirty-six patients (83%) were satisfied or very satisfied with their result. The adjusted Constant score improved from 29% preoperatively to 75% postoperatively (p< 0.0001), the Constant score for pain from fou to twelve points (p< 0.0001), and active anterior elevation from 59° to 114° (p< 0.0001). Active rotations were limited. A positive postoperative hornblower test negatively influenced Constant score (forty-two points compared to 61.5 points, p=0.004) and external rotation (−6° compared to 15°, p=0.004). The lowest functional results were observed in surgical neck nonunions (with five complications) and isolated greater tuberosity malunions. In type four fracture sequelae, patients who had an osteotomy or resection of the GT (n=9) had better forward flexion (140° compared to 110°, p=0.026) and better Constant score (sixty-three points compared to forty-six points, p=0.07).

RSA can be a surgical option in elderly patients with FS, specifically for those with severe malunion (type four fracture sequelae) where hemiarthroplasty gives poor results. By contrast, surgical neck nonunions (type three) and isolated greater tuberosity malunions are at risk for low functional results. The surgical technique and the remaining cuff muscles (teres minor) are important prognostic factors. Functional results are lower and complications/reoperations rates are higher than those reported for RSA in cuff tear arthritis.

The purpose of this study is to report the results of arthroscopic Bankart repair following failed open treatment of anterior instability.

We performed a retrospective review of twenty-two patients with recurrent anterior shoulder instability (i.e. subluxations or dislocations, with or without pain) after open surgical stabilization. There were seventeen men and five women with an average age of thirty-one years (range, 15–65). The most recent interventions consisted of sixteen osseous transfers (twelve Latarjet and four Eden-Hybinette), three open Bankart repairs and three capsular shifts. The causes of failure were additional trauma in twelve patients and complications related to the bone-block in thirteen (poor position, fracture, pseudarthrosis or lysis). All patients were noted to have distension of the anterior-inferior capsular structures. Labral re-attachment and capsulo-ligamentous re-tensioning with suture anchors was performed in all cases with an additional rotator interval closure in four patients and an inferior capsular plication in twelve patients; the bone block screws were removed in eight patients.

At an average follow-up of forty-three months (range, twenty-four to seventy-two months), nineteen patients were evaluated by two independent observers. One patient had recurrent subluxation, and two patients had persistent apprehension. Anterior elevation was unchanged, and loss of external rotation (RE1) was 6°. Nine patients returned to sport at the same level; all patients returned to their previous occupations, including the six cases of work-related injury. Eighty-nine percent were satisfied or very satisfied; the subjective shoulder value (SSV) was 83% ± 23%; the Walch-Duplay, Rowe and UCLA scores were 85 ± 21, 81 ± 23 and 30 ± 7 points respectively. The number of previous interventions did not influence the results. Eight patients (42%) were still painful (six with light pain and two with moderate pain).

Arthroscopic revision of open anterior shoulder stabilization gives satisfactory results. The shoulders are both stable and functional. While the stability obtained with this approach is encouraging, our enthusiasm is tempered by some cases of persistent pain.

Recurrence represents the leading complication of arthroscopic anterior shoulder stabilization. Even with modern suture anchor techniques, a recurrence rate of between 5 to 20% persists; emphasizing that arthroscopic Bankart repair cannot apply to all patients and selection must be done. Numerous prognostic factors have already been reported, but strict observance would eliminate almost all patients from arthroscopic Bankart repair. We hypothesised that clinical and radiological risk factors could be present and identifiable in the normal outpatient visit, and they could be integrated into a severity score

A case-control study was undertaken, comparing patients identified as failures after arthroscopic Bankart repair (i.e, recurrent instability) with those who had a successful result (i.e., no recurrence). Recurrence was defined as any new episode of dislocation or any subjective complains of subluxation. During a four-year period one hundred and thirty-one consecutive patients with recurrent anterior shoulder instability, with or without shoulder hyperlaxity, were operated by the senior shoulder surgeon with an arthroscopic suture anchor technique and followed for a minimum of two years. Patients were excluded if concomitant pathology, including multidirectional instability, were present. Bony lesions were not excluded. A complete pre and postoperative questionnaire, physical exam, and anteroposterior x-ray were recorded. Mean follow-up was 31.2 months (range, twenty-four to fifty-two months).

Nineteen patients had a recurrent anterior instability (14.5%). Preoperative evaluation demonstrated that age below twenty years old, involvement in athletic competition, participation in contact or forced-overhead sports, presence of shoulder hyperlaxity, Hill-Sachs lesion visible on AP external X-ray, and loss of inferior glenoid sclerotic contour on AP x-ray were all factors related to increased recurrence. These factors were integrated in an Instability Severity Index Score and tested retrospectively on the same population. Patients with a score of six or less had a recurrence risk of 10% and those over six had a recurrence risk of 70% (p< 0.001).

This study proved that a simple scoring system based on factors of a preoperative questionnaire, physical exam, and anteroposterior x-ray can help the surgeon to select patients who would benefit from arthroscopic stabilization with suture anchors and those for whom an open surgery, like the Latarjet procedure, is a better option.

The complications of prostheses for fractures of the proximal humerus are understudied because the experience of each shoulder surgeon is limited and a standardised registration protocol is not yet available. A prospective study on complications in shoulder arthroplasty for fracture is, therefore, essential to explore variables that influence outcome. The purpose of this study is to report our experience with complications following arthroplasty for proximal humeral fractures.

In a multicenter study, four hundred and six patients treated with arthroplasty for proximal humeral fracture were prospectively followed during a nine year period; three hundred patients with a minimum of two years follow-up, at an average of forty-five months (range, 24–117), were available for review. Objective results were graded with the Constant score and range of motion. Subjective results were reported according to patient satisfaction.

At follow-up, the average Constant score was fifty-four points (range, 14–95) and active forward elevation was 103° (range, 10°–180°). Eighty-one percent of patients were satisfied or very satisfied. We observed a 59% rate of late (after three months) complications, including a high rate of tuberosity-related complications (72% malunion or nonunion). Initial tuberosity malposition was present in 35% of the patients. Secondary migration despite initial good positioning was observed in 24%.

Tuberosity complications were associated with poor final Constant score, poor range of motion and shoulder pain (p=0.001 for all items). A re-operation was performed in 5.3% of the cases. Patients who were mobilised according to the ‘early passive motion’ concept had double the incidence of secondary tuberosity migration, compared to those that were initially immobilised (14% versus 27%, p=0.004). Tuberosity complications are the most frequent late complication and they are associated with poor functional results. It is, therefore, incumbent upon the surgeon to maximise healing with adequate fixation of the tuberosities, followed by sufficient immobilization.

The objective of this study is to report the epidemiology and results of treatment of deep infection after a reverse shoulder arthroplasty.

This is a multicenter retrospective study involving 457 reverse prostheses performed between 1992 and 2002. Fifteen patients (3%) (mean age 71 ± 9 years) presented with a deep infection. Eight were primary arthroplasties and seven were revision procedures. There were five associated peri-operative fractures and three early postoperative complications requiring surgical treatment. Infection was treated by debridement (n=4), prosthetic resection (n=10) or two-stage revision (n=1).

The infection rate was 2% (8/363) for a primary reverse arthroplasty and 7% (7/94) for revisions. The infection was diagnosed at a mean of seventeen months (range, one to fifty-seven) post-operatively, corresponding to two acute, five sub-acute and eight chronic infections. The most common pathogen was P. acnes in six cases (40%). At a mean follow-up of thirty-four ± nineteen months, there were twelve remissions (80%) and three recurrent infections. The two acute infections (one debridement and one resection) and the eight chronic infections (seven resections and one two-stage revision) were in remission. Among the five sub-acute infections, the two resections were in remission, whereas the three debridements recurred. Overall, the ten resections were in remission with seven patients disappointed and three satisfied, a mean Constant score of thirty-one ± eight points and a mean active anterior elevation of 53 ± 15°. The two-stage exchange was in remission but remained disappointed with a Constant score of twenty-seven points and an active anterior elevation of 90°.

Infection compromises the functional results of the reverse prosthesis whatever the treatment performed. Acute infections appear to be satisfactorily treated by debridement or resection. Both resection and two-stage revision can successfully treat sub-acute and chronic infection; however, debridement alone is ineffective and not recommended. There is a high rate of infection when the reverse prosthesis is used in revision arthroplasty. Prevention, by looking for such infection before surgery and by performing a two-stage procedure is recommended in the case of any uncertainty.

Scapular notching is of concern in reverse shoulder arthroplasty and has been suggested as a cause of glenoid loosening. Our purpose was to analyze in a large series the characteristics and the consequences of the notch and then to enlighten the causes in order to seek some solutions to avoid it. 430 consecutive patients (457 shoulders) were treated by a reverse prosthesis for various etiologies between 1991 and 2003 and analyzed for this retrospective multicenter study. Adequate evaluation of the notch was available in 337 shoulders with a follow-up of 47 months (range, 24–120 months). The notch has been diagnosed in 62% cases at the last follow-up. Intermediate reviews show that the notch is already visible within the first postoperative year in 82% of these cases. Frequency and grade extension of the notch increase significantly with follow-up (p< 0.0001) but notch, when present, is not always evolutive. At this point of follow-up, scapular notch is not correlated with clinical outcome. There is a correlation with humeral radiolucent lines, particularly in metaphyseal zones (p=0.005) and with glenoid radiolucent lines around the fixation screws (p=0.006). Significant preoperative factors are: cuff tear arthropathy (p=0.0004), muscular fatty infiltration of infraspinatus (p=0.01), narrowing of acromio-humeral distance (p< 0.0001) and superior erosion of the glenoid (p=0.006). It was more frequent with superolateral approach than with deltopectoral approach (p< 0.0001) and with standard cup than with lateralized cup (p=0.02). We conclude that scapular notching is frequent, early and sometimes evolutive but not unavoidable. Preoperative superior glenoid erosion is significantly associated with a scapular notch, possibly due to the surgical tendency to position the baseplate with superior tilt and/or in high position which has been demonstrated to be an impingement factor. Preoperative radiographic planning and adapted glenoid preparation are of concern.

The purpose of this study is to catalogue humeral problems with reverse total shoulder arthroplasty and define their influence on outcome.

A multicenter retrospective review of 399 reverse humeral arthroplasties implanted between January 1994 and April 2003, yielded seventy-nine patients with humeral problems. We define a clinical humeral problem as an event that alters the expected rehab or postoperative course. Perioperative problems are fractures within the stem zone while postoperative problems involve fractures distal to the stem, prosthetic disassembly and subsidence. Radiologic problems include humeral loosening and radiolucencies of greater than 2 mm that have not had a clinical impact. All radiographs were available and reviewed by three orthopaedic surgeons. Objective results were rated according to the Constant score; active forward flexion and external rotation were recorded; and subjective outcome was noted.

We identified twenty-six intra-operative fractures and eleven postoperative fractures. There were four cases of disassembly, three cases of subsidence, and fifteen cases of radiographic loosening. At a mean follow-up of forty-seven months, average active elevation was 111.3 degrees, external rotation was 7.0 degrees, and absolute Constant score improved from 21.9 to 50.1 points. Seventy-one percent of the patients were satisfied or very satisfied. Intra-operative humeral fractures were associated with poor final Constant score (42.3), poor range of motion and increased shoulder pain (p=0.001 for all items). Constant score for those revision patients who experienced a fracture was lower by 9.6 points (p=0.0347) than those patients who underwent a reverse prosthesis for revision surgery without a fracture. Constant score for those patients with a postoperative fracture averaged 47.2 (range, 8–70). A re-operation was performed in seven of the cases (9%).

Intra-operative humeral fractures occur commonly when a reverse prosthesis is indicated for revision; humerotomy is not protective, however, and is not recommended for all humeral revisions. Fractures, either intraoperative or post-operative, result in lower Constant scores. Any patient who received an intervention for a humeral problem yielded a lower constant score. While postoperative Constant scores improved in all categories, they were lower than those patients who did not sustain a humeral complication.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate outcome following arthroscopic biceps tenotomy or tenodesis for massive irreparable rotator cuff tears associated with biceps lesions.

This is a retrospective study of sixty-eight consecutive patients (mean age 68 ± 6 years) with seventy-two irreparable rotator cuff tears treated with arthroscopic biceps tenotomy (thirty-nine cases) or tenodesis (thirty-three cases). All patients were evaluated clinically and radiographically at a mean follow-up of thirty-five months (range, 24–52).

Fifty-three patients (78%) were satisfied. Constant score improved from forty-six to sixty-seven points (p< 0.001). Presence of a healthy, intact teres minor on preoperative imaging correlated with increased postoperative external rotation (40 vs. 18°, p< 0.05) and higher Constant score (p< 0.05). Three patients with a pseudoparalyzed shoulder did not benefit from the procedure and did not regain active elevation above the horizontal level. By contrast, fifteen patients with painful loss of active elevation recovered active elevation. The acromiohumeral distance decreased 1 mm on average, and only one patient developed glenohumeral osteoarthritis. There was no difference between tenotomy and tenodesis (Constant Score sixty-one vs. seventy-three). A “Popeye” sign was clinically apparent in twenty-four tenotomy patients (61%), but none were bothered by it. Two patients required reoperation with a reverse prosthesis.

Arthroscopic biceps tenotomy and tenodesis effectively treats severe pain or dysfunction caused by an irreparable rotator cuff tear associated with biceps pathology. Shoulder function is significantly lower if the teres minor is atrophic or fatty infiltrated. Pseudoparalysis or severe cuff arthropathy are contraindications.

INTRODUCTION: Assessment of radiolucent lines (RLL) is the main component of the radiographic analysis of the glenoid component. The purpose of this study is to compare the radiographic results of two glenoid preparation techniques by analyzing periglenoid radiolucencies.

MATERIEL AND METHODS: The series consists of seventy-two shoulder arthroplasties with primary osteoarthritis. Shoulders were divided into two groups based on glenoid preparation technique:

Group 1: Thirty-seven shoulders operated on between 1991 and 1995 with flat back, polyethylene glenoid implants cemented after “curettage” of the keel slot.

Group 2: Thirty-five shoulders operated on between 1997 and 1999 with flat back, polyethylene glenoid implants cemented after cancellous bone compaction of the keel slot.

At least three of the following four fluoroscopically positioned, postoperative AP radiographs were analyzed: immediate postoperative, between the 3rd and 6th postoperative months, at one year postoperative and at two years postoperative. The immediate and the two year radiograph were required for study inclusion. The radiolucent line score (RLLS) was calculated using the technique of Molé, involving the summation of radiolucencies in each of six specified zones. The RLLS was compared between the two groups.

RESULTS: On the immediate postoperative radiographs the average of the total RLL score of the 9 analyzes was 2.39 in Group 1 and 1.67 in Group 2 (p=0.042). There was a statistically significant association between the glenoid preparation technique and the incidence of radiolucency around the keel as well (p=0.001). There was no significant difference in radiolucency behind the faceplate between the two groups (Group 1: 1.54 and Group 2: 1.41; p=0.394). On the 2-year postoperative radiographs the average RLL score of the 9 analyzes were 6.44 in the Group1 (4.05 under the tray, and 2.39 around the keel), and 4.19 in Group2 (p=0.0005) (2.86 under the tray, and 1.33 around the keel). The radiolucency around the keel and behind the faceplate (p=0.0005) was significantly more important (p=0.001) in the “curettage” glenoid preparation population. A significantly higher degree of progression of the total RLL score (p=0.002) and of the radiolucency behind the faceplate (p=0.001) was observed in the “curettage” glenoid preparation group.

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: Preparation of the glenoid component keel slot with cancellous bone compaction is radiographically superior to the “curettage” technique with regard to periglenoid radiolucen-cies. Although new techniques of glenoid preparation may help to decrease the rate of RLL, this study shows that even with better technique, the RLL are evolutive and may appear after few years in initially perfectly implanted glenoid.

Purpose of the study: The hypothesis of this study was that age over 50 years is not a contraindication for hamstring reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).

Material and methods: Study period: September 1998 to September 2003. Type of study: prospective, consecutive series. The patient included in this study met the following criteria: age over 50 years at surgery; chronic anterior laxity, alone or associated with meniscal injury; one or more episodes of instability; absence of preoperative medial femorotibial osteoarthritis; no prior history of ligament surgery on the same knee. The same technique was used for all patients: four-strand single fiber arthroscopic hamstring ligamentoplasty using a blind femoral tunnel drilled via an anteromedial arthroscopic portal. All grafts were fixed with resorbable screws in the femur and tibia. The same rehabilitation protocol was used for all patients. IKDC scores were recorded. Plain x-rays were obtained (single leg stance ap and lateral views) as well as 30° patellar and passive Lachman (Telos).

Results: Eighteen patients were included, 12 women, mean age 59.5 years (range 51–66 years. Mean follow-up was 35 months (range 12–59 months). There were no cases of recurrent ACL tears, no loss of extension. Three patients complained of hpoesthesia involving the internal saphenous nerve and two patients presented postoperative knee pain. At last follow-up, the overall IKDC score was 7A, and 11B. All patients considered they had a normal or nearly normal knee. All were satisfied or very satisfied. None of the patients presented instability. The Lachman-Trillat test was hard stop in 13 cases and late hard stop in 5. The pivot test was negative in 16 knees and questionable in two. Mean residual differential laxity was 3.3 mm (range −1 mm to +7 mm) in passive Lachman. There was no evidence of osteoarthritic progression on the x-rays.

Discussion and conclusion: This series demonstrated that age over 50 years is not a contraindication for arthroscopic hamstring ACL grafting. This operation can be used to restore knee stability.

Purpose of the study: Completely arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff tears is widely considered as the standard treatment. We reviewed a multicentric retrospective series of patients.

Material and methods: This series of arthroscopic repairs of full-thickness tears of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus were assess with the Constant score together with arthroMRI or arthroscan at one year follow-up at least. Data were analyzed with SPSS10. The series included 576 patients who underwent surgery from January 2001 to June 2003. Mean age was 57.7 years, 52% males and 60% manual laborers. Mean preoperative Constant score was 46.4/100 (r13.4). The tear was limited to the supraspinatus in 69% of patients with extension to the upper third of the infraspinagus for 23.5% and to all tendons for 7.5%. The supraspinatus tear was distal in 41.7% of patients, intermediary for 44%, and retracted for 14.3%. Arthroscopic repair was performed in all cases, with locoregional anesthesia for 60.9%. Implants were resorbable for 33% and metallic for 62.1%. Acromioplasty was performed for 92.7% and capsulotomy for 14.9%.

Results: The mean subjective outcome was scored 8.89/10. The Constant score improved from 46.3±13.4 to 82.7±10.3 with 62% of patients being strictly pain free. The force score improved from 8.5±3.7 to 13.6±5.4. Outcome was excellent or very good for 94% of the shoulders at 18.5 mean follow-up. The rate of complications was 6.2% with 3.1% of patients presenting prolonged joint stiffness, 2.7% reflex dystrophy, 0.2% infection and 0.2% implant migration. The cuff was considered normal in 55.7% of the shoulders with an intratendon addition image for 19%, i.e. 74.7% non-torn cuffs. A point leakage was noted in 9.5% with pronounced leakage in 15.7%, i.e. 25.2% recurrent tears.

Discussion and conclusion: The functional outcome obtained after arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff tears is good. Arthroscopy has the advantage of a low rate of complications yet provides good clinical and anatomic results. Age is correlated with functional outcome and healing, but should not be considered as a contraindication.

Purpose of the study: The objective of this study was to identify clinical and anatomic factors which could affect the outcome of tendon healing after arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff tears.

Material and methods: This prospective cohort study included 122 patients who underwent arthroscopic treatment between May 1999 and September 2002. One hundred twelve patients (114 shoulders) were reviewed (93.4%). Mean age at surgery was 61 years. An arthroscan (78% of patients) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed six months postoperatively. Mean follow-up was 24 months (range 13–46 months).

Results: Rotator cuff tears healed completely in 64% of the shoulders (n=73) and partially in 7% (n=8). No healing was observed in 29% (n=33). The Constant score was 49.8 preoperatively and 82.4 at last follow-up (p< 0.0001). Cuff healing improved clinical outcome with a Constant score of 85 points versus 77, particularly for force, 14.5 points versus 10 without healing. Four factors were statistically predictive of tendon healing: duration from symptom onset to operation (24 months for healed tears versus 37 months, p< 0.05); age at cuff repair (81% healed tears in patients aged less than 50 years versus 50% for patients aged over 65 years, p< 0.002); sagittal extension of the rotator interval or extension to the upper third of the infrascapularis (45% healed tears versus 79% without anterior extension, p< 0.0001); fatty degeneration (69% of healed tears for Goutallier grade 0 versus 38% for grade 1 and 2, p< 0.01).

Conclusion: This study demonstrated that four factors can predict tendon healing: time to treatment, age at surgery, anterior extension of the tear, fatty degeneration.