During exercise, muscular expansion and swelling occur. Chronic exertional compartment syndrome represents abnormally increased compartment pressures and pain in the involved extremity secondary to a noncompliant musculofascial compartment. Most commonly, it occurs in the lower leg, but has been reported in the thigh, foot, upper extremity, and erector spinae musculature. The diagnosis is obtained through a careful history and physical exam, reproduction of symptoms with exertion, and pre- and post-exercise muscle tissue compartment pressure recordings. It has been postulated that increased compartment pressures lead to transient ischemia and pain in the involved extremity. However, this is not universally accepted. Other than complete cessation of causative activities, nonoperative management of CECS is usually unsuccessful. Surgical release of the involved compartments is recommended for patients who wish to continue to exercise.

This is a retrospective review of nine coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus. Two were isolated fractures and seven were associated with other peri-articular elbow injuries, termed “complex” coronal shear fractures. All cases underwent immediate open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) and were then followed for an average of 14 months (range: 6.5 to 23 months) with outcomes evaluated using the Mayo Elbow Performance Scoring system. There was a significant difference found between injuries limited to the radiocapitellar (RC) joint (isolated coronal shear fractures, or those associated only with radial head fractures) and the complex injuries extending beyond the RC joint. Scores for the RC injuries were 100 and other complex injuries had an average score of 69 (range: 35 to 95; p = .025). All complications were limited to the group with the complex injuries, including stiffness, nonunion, pain, and gross instability. Much of the current thinking in treatment of this fracture was upheld in this study; computed tomography aids in diagnosis, ORIF is a necessity, and there is a need for anatomic reduction. When a coronal shear fracture is complicated by a concomitant injury outside the RC joint, both the surgeon’s and patient’s expectation need to be adjusted accordingly.

Union of the greater tuberosity to the humeral shaft after hemiarthroplasty for acute fractures of the proximal humerus is a critical factor in the restoration of glenohumeral function. A retrospective review was undertaken to examine 23 consecutive patients who underwent hemiarthroplasty for the treatment of acute three- and four-part fractures of the proximal humerus. The study was conducted to examine the relationship between the position of the healed greater tuberosity and postoperative range of motion. The average age of the patients was 66.5 years. The average follow up was 3.8 years with a range of 24 to 108 months. Active range of motion was measured in forward elevation, external rotation, and internal rotation. Postoperative radiographs were examined to determine the position of the united greater tuberosity in relation to the top of the replaced humeral head. The tuberosity was fixed at an average of 15.4 mm below the top of the humeral head (range: 3 to 26 mm). A radiographic assessment of a control population of 50 normal proximal humeri demonstrated an average tuberosity position of 6.7 mm (range: 2 to 12 mm) below the superior aspect of the humeral head. Polynomial regression analysis demonstrated a polynomial relationship for active range of motion and tuberosity height. ANOVA testing demonstrated statistically significant differences in all ranges of motion. Active forward elevation for Group I (3 to 9 mm) was 88°,Group II (l0 to 16 mm) was 126°, and Group III (17 to 26 mm) was 85° (p = 0.04). Active external rotation for Group I was 19°, Group II was 48°, and Group III was 29° (p = 0.01). Active internal rotation for Group I was to L2, Group II was to T10, and Group III was to L2 (p = 0.01). Although many factors affect the final ranges of motion in patients who undergo prosthetic replacement for acute proximal humeral fractures we believe that placement of the greater tuberosity 10 to 16 mm below the humeral head will assist in the maximum recovery of glenohumeral motion.

The anterior capsulolabral reconstruction (ACLR) has been shown to yield satisfactory results predominantly in overhead athletes with atraumatic anterior shoulder instability. The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical results of patients who underwent ACLR for recurrent traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation. A retrospective review of 41 patients, mean age 29 (range: 16 to 55 years) who underwent ACLR for traumatic recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation was performed. All patients reported a traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation with subsequent recurrent instability. Seven patients had undergone previous shoulder stabilization surgery which had failed. The mean number of previous dislocations was 4.5 (range: 1 to 15). There were 31 males and 10 females, and the dominant arm was involved in 24 patients. In all cases, the capsulolabral complex was detached from the glenoid rim. The mean follow-up was 3.6 years (range: 15 to 80 months). All patients were evaluated by physical examination. The mean modified Rowe score was 93.6 (range: 65 to 100). There were 32 excellent, 5 good, 1 fair, and 2 poor results. Instability was eliminated in 38 patients (93%). Of 25 patients who engaged in recreational sports, all were able to return to their previous level of participation. One patient sustained a traumatic redislocation and underwent revision surgery. Two patients reported atraumatic recurrent subluxation with one requiring revision surgery due to persistent symptoms of instability. There was no loss of range of motion in comparison to preoperative values. Of the seven shoulders that had undergone previous surgery, all remain stable. These results indicate that a glenoid-sided capsulolabral reconstruction can restore shoulder stability in patients with recurrent traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation. Success rates comparable to those of other open anterior shoulder repair procedures can be achieved.

Recurrent instability in patients over forty years of age is felt to occur primarily as a result of an associated rotator cuff tear. This is often referred to as the “posterior mechanism.” We reviewed our patients over the age of forty who underwent an anterior shoulder repair to identify the incidence of capsulolabral detachments and the role of an “anterior mechanism” in this patient population. A retrospective review of all patients from 1985 to 2000 was performed to identify patients who had surgery for recurrent instability that began after forty years of age. Of the 265 patients records reviewed, 11 patients were identified who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Of the 11 patients identified, 9 patients underwent anterior capsulolabral reconstruction for recurrent instability; the remaining two patients underwent repair of large rotator cuff tears. All 9 patients had a capsulolabral detachment, 4 had a rotator interval defect, 2 had anterior and inferior capsular redundancy, 1 had a small rotator cuff tear and 1 had an anterior capsular avulsion from the humeral head. At minimum follow-up of 32 months none of the patients reported episodes of instability. The reported incidence of rotator cuff tears in patients over the age of forty following an initial traumatic anterior glenohumeral dislocation ranges from 35% to 100%. When recurrent instability occurs, it is postulated to occur via a “posterior mechanism” (i.e., secondary to a significant full-thickness rotator cuff tear). However, all of our patients had an anterior capsulolabral detachment as the “common lesion” associated with recurrent instability. Although small, this series emphasizes the role of the “anterior mechanism” in patients who develop recurrent instability after the age of forty. A high rate of success was achieved by addressing the pathoanatomic changes identified.

Although the operative management of recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability has received significant attention in literature, the outcome of revision anterior shoulder repair is much less frequently reported. We report the results of our experience with this challenging problem. Retrospective chart review identified 29 patients who underwent revision anterior shoulder repair. Prior procedures included eight Bankart repairs, seven capsular shifts, 10 combined Bankart and capsular shift procedures, three Putti-Platt procedures, two staple capsulorrhaphies, two Bristow procedures, seven arthroscopic procedures, and one Magnuson-Stack. The average age of the patients was 31.6 years (range: 18 to 52 years) and the dominant extremity was involved in 69%. Findings at the time of revision anterior shoulder repair included 22 patients with capsulolabral detachment, 24 with capsular redundancy, and 14 with rotator interval defects. Twenty-three of the 29 patients were available for at least a two-year follow-up. Twenty-one (91%) remain stable. One patient was non-compliant with the postoperative immobilization and re-dislocated within the first month. The second patient, who had a prior Bankart procedure followed by a capsular shift two years later, underwent a capsular shift for significant capsular laxity. He re-dislocated approximately 15 months postoperatively. Our success rate of 91% in this small series approaches the results of primary open repair for recurrent glenohumeral instability. To achieve a successful outcome, it is essential to address all pathology at the time of revision repair.

There is no abstract for this article...

A retrospective radiographic evaluation of 39 acetabulae reconstructed with TrilockTM press-fit components (Depuy, Warsaw, IN) without use of supplementary fixation was performed. The following radiographic criteria were evaluated: change in component inclination angle, migration, osteolytic areas, and radiolucent lines. Acetabular components were considered loose when there was migration greater than four millimeters, change in abduction angle greater than four degrees, or a concentric radiolucent line greater than two millimeters. The average length of follow-up was 12.6 years. Six of the 39 (15.4%) total hip arthroplasties were considered loose. Two (5.1%) of these were revised and four (10.4%) were asymptomatic at the time of latest follow-up. Significant areas of osteolysis were found in 15 hips (38.5%). We conclude that the TrilockTM acetabular component provides adequate fixation and satisfactory long-term results.

Surgery for the management of hallux rigidus aims to relieve pain and improve function. Arthrodesis, though reliable in terms of pain relief, may encounter some resistance from patients reluctant to have a fusion. Results of other techniques, such as silastic implants, may give poor long-term results. Excisional arthroplasty and cheilectomy are also routinely used. Interposition arthroplasty has been used with some success in other joints. We describe a technique of autologous interposition arthroplasty using a free ipsilateral gracilis tendon graft for patients with severe hallux rigidus with moderate to high activity levels and who do not wish to undergo fusion.

Fractures of irradiated bones present special challenges to healing. Nonunions are very common and are challenging surgical problems. We report three radiated nonunions of the clavicle successfully treated with modifications of standard internal fixation techniques.

Segmental fractures of the radius and ulna are relatively common in adults, often occurring after high energy trauma. Segmental forearm fractures in children have not previously been reported, and their optimal management is unclear. We report a child of eight years of age who underwent fixation of these injuries with a good outcome.

The simultaneous diagnosis of ipsilateral patellar tendon rupture and anterior cruciate ligament tear is rare. Surgical repair is complicated by different rehabilitation regimens as well as anterior cruciate ligament graft choices. We present a case where at the same operative setting, the patellar tendon was repaired, and the anterior cruciate ligament reconstructed with autologous hamstring graft.

During exercise, muscular expansion and swelling occur. Chronic exertional compartment syndrome represents abnormally increased compartment pressures and pain in the involved extremity secondary to a noncompliant musculofascial compartment. Most commonly, it occurs in the lower leg, but has been reported in the thigh, foot, upper extremity, and erector spinae musculature. The diagnosis is obtained through a careful history and physical exam, reproduction of symptoms with exertion, and pre- and post-exercise muscle tissue compartment pressure recordings. It has been postulated that increased compartment pressures lead to transient ischemia and pain in the involved extremity. However, this is not universally accepted. Other than complete cessation of causative activities, nonoperative management of CECS is usually unsuccessful. Surgical release of the involved compartments is recommended for patients who wish to continue to exercise.

This is a retrospective review of nine coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus. Two were isolated fractures and seven were associated with other peri-articular elbow injuries, termed “complex” coronal shear fractures. All cases underwent immediate open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) and were then followed for an average of 14 months (range: 6.5 to 23 months) with outcomes evaluated using the Mayo Elbow Performance Scoring system. There was a significant difference found between injuries limited to the radiocapitellar (RC) joint (isolated coronal shear fractures, or those associated only with radial head fractures) and the complex injuries extending beyond the RC joint. Scores for the RC injuries were 100 and other complex injuries had an average score of 69 (range: 35 to 95; p = .025). All complications were limited to the group with the complex injuries, including stiffness, nonunion, pain, and gross instability. Much of the current thinking in treatment of this fracture was upheld in this study; computed tomography aids in diagnosis, ORIF is a necessity, and there is a need for anatomic reduction. When a coronal shear fracture is complicated by a concomitant injury outside the RC joint, both the surgeon’s and patient’s expectation need to be adjusted accordingly.

Union of the greater tuberosity to the humeral shaft after hemiarthroplasty for acute fractures of the proximal humerus is a critical factor in the restoration of glenohumeral function. A retrospective review was undertaken to examine 23 consecutive patients who underwent hemiarthroplasty for the treatment of acute three- and four-part fractures of the proximal humerus. The study was conducted to examine the relationship between the position of the healed greater tuberosity and postoperative range of motion. The average age of the patients was 66.5 years. The average follow up was 3.8 years with a range of 24 to 108 months. Active range of motion was measured in forward elevation, external rotation, and internal rotation. Postoperative radiographs were examined to determine the position of the united greater tuberosity in relation to the top of the replaced humeral head. The tuberosity was fixed at an average of 15.4 mm below the top of the humeral head (range: 3 to 26 mm). A radiographic assessment of a control population of 50 normal proximal humeri demonstrated an average tuberosity position of 6.7 mm (range: 2 to 12 mm) below the superior aspect of the humeral head. Polynomial regression analysis demonstrated a polynomial relationship for active range of motion and tuberosity height. ANOVA testing demonstrated statistically significant differences in all ranges of motion. Active forward elevation for Group I (3 to 9 mm) was 88°,Group II (l0 to 16 mm) was 126°, and Group III (17 to 26 mm) was 85° (p = 0.04). Active external rotation for Group I was 19°, Group II was 48°, and Group III was 29° (p = 0.01). Active internal rotation for Group I was to L2, Group II was to T10, and Group III was to L2 (p = 0.01). Although many factors affect the final ranges of motion in patients who undergo prosthetic replacement for acute proximal humeral fractures we believe that placement of the greater tuberosity 10 to 16 mm below the humeral head will assist in the maximum recovery of glenohumeral motion.

The anterior capsulolabral reconstruction (ACLR) has been shown to yield satisfactory results predominantly in overhead athletes with atraumatic anterior shoulder instability. The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical results of patients who underwent ACLR for recurrent traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation. A retrospective review of 41 patients, mean age 29 (range: 16 to 55 years) who underwent ACLR for traumatic recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation was performed. All patients reported a traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation with subsequent recurrent instability. Seven patients had undergone previous shoulder stabilization surgery which had failed. The mean number of previous dislocations was 4.5 (range: 1 to 15). There were 31 males and 10 females, and the dominant arm was involved in 24 patients. In all cases, the capsulolabral complex was detached from the glenoid rim. The mean follow-up was 3.6 years (range: 15 to 80 months). All patients were evaluated by physical examination. The mean modified Rowe score was 93.6 (range: 65 to 100). There were 32 excellent, 5 good, 1 fair, and 2 poor results. Instability was eliminated in 38 patients (93%). Of 25 patients who engaged in recreational sports, all were able to return to their previous level of participation. One patient sustained a traumatic redislocation and underwent revision surgery. Two patients reported atraumatic recurrent subluxation with one requiring revision surgery due to persistent symptoms of instability. There was no loss of range of motion in comparison to preoperative values. Of the seven shoulders that had undergone previous surgery, all remain stable. These results indicate that a glenoid-sided capsulolabral reconstruction can restore shoulder stability in patients with recurrent traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation. Success rates comparable to those of other open anterior shoulder repair procedures can be achieved.

Recurrent instability in patients over forty years of age is felt to occur primarily as a result of an associated rotator cuff tear. This is often referred to as the “posterior mechanism.” We reviewed our patients over the age of forty who underwent an anterior shoulder repair to identify the incidence of capsulolabral detachments and the role of an “anterior mechanism” in this patient population. A retrospective review of all patients from 1985 to 2000 was performed to identify patients who had surgery for recurrent instability that began after forty years of age. Of the 265 patients records reviewed, 11 patients were identified who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Of the 11 patients identified, 9 patients underwent anterior capsulolabral reconstruction for recurrent instability; the remaining two patients underwent repair of large rotator cuff tears. All 9 patients had a capsulolabral detachment, 4 had a rotator interval defect, 2 had anterior and inferior capsular redundancy, 1 had a small rotator cuff tear and 1 had an anterior capsular avulsion from the humeral head. At minimum follow-up of 32 months none of the patients reported episodes of instability. The reported incidence of rotator cuff tears in patients over the age of forty following an initial traumatic anterior glenohumeral dislocation ranges from 35% to 100%. When recurrent instability occurs, it is postulated to occur via a “posterior mechanism” (i.e., secondary to a significant full-thickness rotator cuff tear). However, all of our patients had an anterior capsulolabral detachment as the “common lesion” associated with recurrent instability. Although small, this series emphasizes the role of the “anterior mechanism” in patients who develop recurrent instability after the age of forty. A high rate of success was achieved by addressing the pathoanatomic changes identified.

Although the operative management of recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability has received significant attention in literature, the outcome of revision anterior shoulder repair is much less frequently reported. We report the results of our experience with this challenging problem. Retrospective chart review identified 29 patients who underwent revision anterior shoulder repair. Prior procedures included eight Bankart repairs, seven capsular shifts, 10 combined Bankart and capsular shift procedures, three Putti-Platt procedures, two staple capsulorrhaphies, two Bristow procedures, seven arthroscopic procedures, and one Magnuson-Stack. The average age of the patients was 31.6 years (range: 18 to 52 years) and the dominant extremity was involved in 69%. Findings at the time of revision anterior shoulder repair included 22 patients with capsulolabral detachment, 24 with capsular redundancy, and 14 with rotator interval defects. Twenty-three of the 29 patients were available for at least a two-year follow-up. Twenty-one (91%) remain stable. One patient was non-compliant with the postoperative immobilization and re-dislocated within the first month. The second patient, who had a prior Bankart procedure followed by a capsular shift two years later, underwent a capsular shift for significant capsular laxity. He re-dislocated approximately 15 months postoperatively. Our success rate of 91% in this small series approaches the results of primary open repair for recurrent glenohumeral instability. To achieve a successful outcome, it is essential to address all pathology at the time of revision repair.

There is no abstract for this article...

A retrospective radiographic evaluation of 39 acetabulae reconstructed with TrilockTM press-fit components (Depuy, Warsaw, IN) without use of supplementary fixation was performed. The following radiographic criteria were evaluated: change in component inclination angle, migration, osteolytic areas, and radiolucent lines. Acetabular components were considered loose when there was migration greater than four millimeters, change in abduction angle greater than four degrees, or a concentric radiolucent line greater than two millimeters. The average length of follow-up was 12.6 years. Six of the 39 (15.4%) total hip arthroplasties were considered loose. Two (5.1%) of these were revised and four (10.4%) were asymptomatic at the time of latest follow-up. Significant areas of osteolysis were found in 15 hips (38.5%). We conclude that the TrilockTM acetabular component provides adequate fixation and satisfactory long-term results.

Surgery for the management of hallux rigidus aims to relieve pain and improve function. Arthrodesis, though reliable in terms of pain relief, may encounter some resistance from patients reluctant to have a fusion. Results of other techniques, such as silastic implants, may give poor long-term results. Excisional arthroplasty and cheilectomy are also routinely used. Interposition arthroplasty has been used with some success in other joints. We describe a technique of autologous interposition arthroplasty using a free ipsilateral gracilis tendon graft for patients with severe hallux rigidus with moderate to high activity levels and who do not wish to undergo fusion.

Fractures of irradiated bones present special challenges to healing. Nonunions are very common and are challenging surgical problems. We report three radiated nonunions of the clavicle successfully treated with modifications of standard internal fixation techniques.

Segmental fractures of the radius and ulna are relatively common in adults, often occurring after high energy trauma. Segmental forearm fractures in children have not previously been reported, and their optimal management is unclear. We report a child of eight years of age who underwent fixation of these injuries with a good outcome.

The simultaneous diagnosis of ipsilateral patellar tendon rupture and anterior cruciate ligament tear is rare. Surgical repair is complicated by different rehabilitation regimens as well as anterior cruciate ligament graft choices. We present a case where at the same operative setting, the patellar tendon was repaired, and the anterior cruciate ligament reconstructed with autologous hamstring graft.