Dennis E. Kramer

Meniscal tears and discoid meniscus in children: diagnosis and treatment.

&NA; The incidence of traumatic meniscal tears in children is on the rise, likely because of increased sports participation and more accurate diagnostic modalities. The increased vascularity of the developing meniscus is believed to enable greater healing potential. Meniscal tears in children are often amenable to repair, and excellent clinical results have been reported. Knee size must be considered when determining the optimal method of repair. Discoid menisci represent a spectrum of morphologic abnormalities and instability of the lateral meniscus. Highly unstable variants often present with the classic “snapping knee syndrome,” whereas stable variants may remain asymptomatic until a tear develops. Asymptomatic discoid menisci should be observed, whereas symptomatic discoid menisci are best treated with saucerization and repair. Early to midterm reports on saucerization and repair of discoid lateral meniscus in children are promising.

Posterior Knee Arthroscopy: Anatomy, Technique, Application

The frequency of knee arthroscopy involving the posterior compartments has increased with recent advances in arthroscopic technique and instrumentation. Total arthroscopic synovectomy, arthroscopic repair or reconstruction of the posterior cruciate ligament, all-inside repair of the posterior horn of the meniscus, and removal of loose bodies or tumors posterior to the posterior cruciate ligament all involve arthroscopic visualization of posterior aspects of the knee. Posterior knee arthroscopy is technically complex and requires a detailed knowledge of posterior knee anatomy relevant to the arthroscopist. With pertinent anatomic knowledge and meticulous technique, posterior knee arthroscopy can be safely implemented to provide a broad field of view and increased maneuverability of instruments. The popliteal artery is the most anterior structure of the popliteal neurovascular bundle. It courses anteriorly toward the insertion of the posterior cruciate ligament on the tibia and then moves posteriorly. The popliteal artery is closest to the knee joint at the insertion of the posterior cruciate ligament, where it is held near the proximal part of the tibia by the fibrous arch of the soleus. At the joint line, the popliteal artery lies posterior and lateral to the posterior cruciate ligament, adjacent to the posterior septum (Figs. 1-A and 1-B). Figs. 1-A and 1-B Magnetic resonance images of the knee, depicting the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), posterior septum, and popliteal artery. Fig. 1-A Axial T2-weighted image with fat saturation. Fig. 1-B Sagittal T1-weighted image. Anatomic studies pertinent to an arthroscopists assessment of posterior knee anatomy at the joint line—i.e., studies done under simulated arthroscopic conditions, including knee flexion and joint distention—are unfortunately rare. Cadaver and radiographic anatomic studies of the posterior aspect of the knee are usually done with the knee in full extension. Anatomic studies done with the knee in flexion have previously focused on posterior knee anatomy pertinent for high tibial osteotomy …

Surgical Management of Osteochondritis Dissecans Lesions of the Patella and Trochlea in the Pediatric and Adolescent Population

Background: There is a paucity of published data regarding the management of osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) lesions of the patellofemoral joint in children and adolescents. Purpose: To evaluate the functional outcomes of surgical management of OCD lesions of the patella and trochlea in children and adolescents. Secondary aims included elucidating predictors for higher functional outcomes and determining complication rates, surgical satisfaction, and ability to return to sports. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: Patients aged 18 years and younger who were surgically treated for OCD of the patella or trochlea were identified. Charts were queried to record patient/lesion data, surgical procedure, results, and complications. Pre- and postoperative imaging was reviewed. Patients were asked to complete a follow-up athletic questionnaire and a Pediatric International Knee Documentation Committee (Pedi-IKDC) questionnaire. Statistical analysis was conducted to look for predictors for reoperation, residual pain, ability to return to sports, and lower Pedi-IKDC scores. Results: A total of 26 children (9 females, 17 males, 3 with bilateral lesions; thus, 29 lesions) were identified. The mean age was 14.7 years (range, 9-18, years), 21 of the 29 knees with lesions (72%) had open physes, and median follow-up was 3.8 years (range, 1-9 years). The most common location was the trochlea (17/29 lesions; 59%). Twenty-two lesions (76%) underwent transarticular drilling (n = 14) or drilling with fixation (n = 8), while 7 underwent excision and marrow stimulation. Four patients (14%) required unplanned reoperation. Internal fixation was predictive of reoperation (odds ratio [OR] = 8.7; 95% CI, 2.8-26.9; P = .04). At final follow-up, 14 knees (48%) were pain free, and 14 (48%) had mild residual pain. Female sex was predictive of residual pain (OR, 9; 95% CI, 2-56; P = .02). Twenty-two patients (85%) returned to sports. Longer duration of preoperative pain negatively affected return to sports (OR, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.05-0.97; P = .04). On postoperative MRI, the lesion appeared completely healed in 2 cases (18%) and partially healed in 9 cases (82%). All 15 survey respondents were satisfied with surgery. The mean Pedi-IKDC score was 82.4 ± 17.8 (range, 40.2-100). Conclusion: Surgical treatment of patellofemoral OCD in children and adolescents produces a high rate of satisfaction and return to sports. Female sex, prolonged duration of symptoms, and internal fixation may be associated with worse outcomes.

Surgical Treatment for Avulsion Injuries of the Humeral Lesser Tuberosity Apophysis in Adolescents

BACKGROUND There is little published information regarding avulsion fractures of the humeral lesser tuberosity in adolescents, and no consensus exists on optimal treatment. The purpose of this study was to investigate the demographics, injury mechanisms, and results of operative treatment of lesser tuberosity avulsion fractures in skeletally immature patients. METHODS Eight patients were treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for lesser tuberosity avulsion fractures from 2000 through 2010. Data were collected regarding patient demographics, mechanisms of injury, operative findings, and early clinical results. Preoperative radiographic studies were evaluated, and patient-derived functional outcome scores were obtained. The mean age of the patients was 13.3 years. All patients were male and sustained sports-related injuries, typically from forceful shoulder abduction and external rotation with eccentric subscapularis load. The dominant extremity was injured in six patients. Six patients had initial radiographs that were interpreted as normal. Time from injury to surgery ranged from two weeks to five months. Surgical treatment consisted of ORIF with use of suture anchors (in six patients) or transosseous sutures (in two patients). RESULTS All patients achieved pain relief, and there were no neurovascular complications. All patients had full return of internal rotation strength, negative lift-off tests, and negative belly-press tests postoperatively. Average time to return to sports was 4.4 months postoperatively. Return of full external rotation occurred in five patients at an average of 4.9 months postoperatively. There were no refractures. Patient-derived functional outcomes scores at an average of 24.6 months after surgery demonstrated excellent shoulder function and high patient satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS Humeral lesser tuberosity avulsion fractures do occur in adolescents, typically from high-energy sports injuries. Careful physical examination and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evaluation aid in achieving a timely diagnosis. Surgical reduction and suture fixation is safe and effective in restoring subscapularis function and return to sports, even in cases of delayed treatment. Full recovery of shoulder external rotation may not be seen until six months postoperatively.

Diagnosis and management of symptomatic muscle herniation of the extremities: a retrospective review.

Background: There is a paucity of published literature on diagnosis and surgical management of muscle herniation of the extremities, with most reported cases involving military personnel and men aged 18 to 40 years. Hypothesis/Purpose: The purpose of this study is to describe the presentation, diagnosis, and results of fasciotomy for symptomatic muscle herniation in young athletes. We hypothesize that fasciotomy can be a safe and effective treatment option that allows the majority of athletes to return to sports. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: From 2001 to 2011, 26 athletes (19 women; 11 runners) with a mean age 19.0 ± 4.0 years (range, 14.2-28.4 years) underwent fasciotomy for symptomatic muscle herniation at the authors’ institution. Retrospective chart review recorded pertinent patient data and clinical course. Questionnaires were sent to all patients to assess satisfaction with surgery, ability to return to sports, and residual symptoms. Results: Muscle hernias were classified as primary (n = 8, 31%), postsurgical (n = 8, 31%), and associated with underlying untreated chronic exertional compartment syndrome (n = 10, 38%). The tibialis anterior muscle (n = 12, 46%) was most commonly involved. The mean time from onset of symptoms to surgery was 15.1 ± 8.6 months (range, 3-38 months). Dynamic ultrasound (5/6 patients, 83%) was more accurate than magnetic resonance imaging (3/18, 17%) at identifying the hernia. At median follow-up of 28 months (range, 12-127 months), 17 patients (65%) had returned to sports. Seventeen patients (65%) completed the postoperative questionnaire; 14 reported being satisfied with their results (82%). Mild residual symptoms were common (9 of 17 respondents, 53%), especially in runners (5 of 7, 71%), all of whom were satisfied with surgery. Patients with a postsurgical muscle herniation took the longest to return to sports and were the least likely to return to sports, had the highest rate of dissatisfaction with surgery, and were most likely to have persistent symptoms not improved by surgery. Conclusion: Fasciotomy is a safe surgical option for symptomatic muscle herniation in young athletes. Many patients are able to return to sports and most are satisfied with surgery. Residual symptoms are common, especially in runners. Patients with postsurgical muscle herniations may have the worst clinical outcome.

Acute traumatic and sports-related osteochondral injury of the pediatric knee

Adolescents are predisposed to osteochondral (OC) injuries in the knee. The medial facet of the patella, the femoral trochlea, and the lateral femoral condyle are the most common sites of injury. Most of these injuries are classically traumatic but noncontact injuries. Surgery is warranted in most cases of OC fracture. Depending on size, condition, and location of the lesion, options include OC fragment reduction and internal fixation or excision and cartilage resurfacing. Understanding of how to diagnose and treat OC fractures will help optimize outcomes.

Evaluation and management of patellar instability in pediatric and adolescent athletes.

Context: The rising popularity and intensity of youth sports has increased the incidence of patellar dislocation. These sports-related injuries may be associated with significant morbidity in the pediatric population. Treatment requires understanding and attention to the unique challenges in the skeletally immature patient. Evidence Acquisition: PubMed searches spanning 1970-2013. Study Design: Clinical review. Level of Evidence: Level 5. Results: Although nonoperative approaches are most often suitable for first-time patellar dislocations, surgical treatment is recommended for acute fixation of displaced osteochondral fractures sustained during primary instability and for patellar realignment in the setting of recurrent instability. While a variety of procedures can prevent recurrence, the risk of complications is not minimal. Conclusion: Patellar stabilization and realignment procedures in skeletally immature patients with recurrent patellar dislocation can effectively treat patellar instability without untoward effects on growth if careful surgical planning incorporates protection of growth parameters in the skeletally immature athlete.

Tibial tubercle fragmentation: A clue to simultaneous patellar ligament avulsion in pediatric tibial tubercle fractures

Simultaneous avulsions of the tibial tubercle and patellar ligament have been reported, but are rare. We present an 11-year-old boy who was initially diagnosed with a Type IIIA tibial tubercle avulsion fracture after falling off of his bicycle. Intraoperatively, following exposure and fixation of the tibial tubercle fragment, knee range of motion under live fluoroscopy revealed a stationary patella with no tension in the patellar ligament. The incision was extended and a distal avulsion of the patellar ligament from the tibial tubercle was identified, with a small flap of tibial tubercle periosteum remaining attached. Transosseous suture fixation of the avulsed periosteal flap was achieved with 2 No. 5 ethibond sutures placed through connecting drill holes. Postoperatively, the patient was placed in a long leg cast with the knee in extension for 6 weeks. The injury to healed and the patient returned to full activities, although he required 2 courses of physical therapy and 4.5 months to regain full range of motion. Preoperative diagnosis of simultaneous tibial tubercle fracture and patellar ligament avulsion can be difficult. Palpation of the patellar ligament for gaps may not be possible due to a large knee effusion. Most patients do not tolerate quadriceps testing on examination and do not have patella alta on radiographs. In retrospect, a clue to this diagnosis in our patient was the preoperative radiographic finding of multiple calcified fragments below the patella. The calcified fragments likely represent the avulsed tibial tubercle periosteum attached to the distal patellar ligament. In addition, the large tibial tubercle fragment is separated and rotated superiorly, a finding that was also noted in two other similar case reports.

Total Arthroscopic Synovectomy for Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis of the Knee

Pigmented villonodular synovitis of the knee is a rare and benign disease of synovial proliferation. It commonly occurs in 2 growth patterns: localized nodular and diffuse villous. Presenting clinically with joint pain and swelling, pigmented villonodular synovitis can be difficult to diagnose, as it mimics other more common knee ailments. Numerous treatment modalities for pigmented villonodular synovitis exist, including open and arthroscopic total or partial synovectomy, external beam radiation, and intraarticular injection of radioisotopes. While localized nodular pigmented villonodular synovitis responds well to primary excision, treatment of the diffuse pigmented villonodular synovitis of the knee with synovectomy has been associated with high recurrence rates. Total synovectomy (both arthroscopic and open) has a lower recurrence rate compared with partial synovectomy. Arthroscopic total synovectomy has lower operative morbidity, decreased risk of joint stiffness, lower risk of wound complications, and more rapid rehabilitation when compared with open synovectomy. However, arthroscopic total synovectomy is technically demanding due to difficulty visualizing the posterior synovium. With proper technique and appropriate use of posteromedial, posterolateral, and posterior trans-septal portals, adequate visualization and debridement of the posterior synovium can be achieved via arthroscopy. Using this technique, total 5-compartment arthroscopic synovectomy can be an effective primary treatment modality for diffuse pigmented villonodular synovitis of the knee.

Clinical Results and Functional Evaluation of the Chrisman-Snook Procedure for Lateral Ankle Instability in Athletes

There is no consensus regarding optimum surgical treatment for chronic ankle instability. The purpose of this study is to describe a variation of the Chrisman-Snook lateral ligament reconstruction that the senior author uses in patients with chronic ankle instability recalcitrant to conservative management. All patients who underwent reconstruction from 1997 to 2006 were identified, and those with a minimum 2-year follow-up were included, representing a total of 44 ankles in 43 patients. All underwent clinical evaluation and completion of the Foot and Ankle Outcome Survey and the Kaikkonen Scale. At mean follow-up of 4.4 years, mean dorsiflexion loss was 2° compared with the nonoperative side. The postoperative mean Foot and Ankle Outcome Survey score was 74 ± 16 (range, 36-98), while the mean Kaikkonen total score was 77 ± 14 (range, 40-95). Thirty-eight patients (84.6%) were satisfied with their result. Six patients (13.6%) underwent reoperation, including 4 with peroneal tendon scarring requiring tenolysis. Return to sport was achieved in 28 of 35 patients (80%) at a median of 6 months postoperatively. It is concluded that dorsiflexion loss can be minimized and return to sport expected in most patients following this variation of the Chrisman-Snook reconstruction. Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV