Mathew Hamula

10-Year Follow-Up Wear Analysis of First-Generation Highly Crosslinked Polyethylene in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty

Our goal was to report a 10-year follow up of linear penetration rates for HCLPE, and to determine whether a difference exists between penetrations measured on pelvis or hip anterior-posterior radiographs. We reviewed 48 total hip arthroplasties where a first-generation HCLPE liner was used. Femoral head penetration was measured on both AP pelvis and hip radiographs. Total wear and wear rate at 10 years were 1.26 mm and 0.122 mm/y, respectively. The rate decreased significantly after the first 2-3 years, plateauing at a wear rate of 0.05 mm/y for the last 5 years. The AP hip total wear and wear rate were 1.38 mm and 0.133 mm/y respectively, while rates were 1.13 mm and 0.109 mm/y respectively for the pelvis radiographs (P<.05). We found a significant difference in measurements of linear penetration when comparing AP pelvis vs. hip radiographs with lower rates recorded using an AP pelvis.

Clinical Outcomes After Chronic Distal Biceps Reconstruction With Allografts

Background: Chronic ruptures of the distal biceps are often complicated by tendon retraction and fibrosis, precluding primary repair. Reconstruction with allograft augmentation has been proposed as an alternative for cases not amenable to primary repair. Purpose: To investigate the clinical outcomes of late distal biceps reconstruction using allograft tissue. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: A total of 20 patients who underwent distal biceps reconstruction with allograft tissue between May 2007 and May 2012 were identified. Charts were retrospectively reviewed for postoperative complications, gross flexion and supination strength, and range of motion. Subjective functional outcomes were assessed prospectively with the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire. Results: Eighteen patients with adequate follow-up were included in the study. All had undergone late distal biceps reconstruction with allografts (Achilles [n = 15], semitendinosus [n = 1], gracilis [n = 1], or anterior tibialis [n = 1]) for symptomatic chronic ruptures of the distal biceps. At a mean office follow-up of 9.3 months (range, 4-14 months), all patients had full range of motion and mean gross strength of 4.7 of 5 (range, 4-5) in flexion and supination. After a mean out-of-office follow-up at 21 months (range, 7-68.8 months), the mean DASH score was 7.5 ± 17.9, and the mean MEPS increased from 43.1 preoperatively to 94.2 postoperatively (P < .001). The only complication observed was transient posterior interosseous nerve palsy in 2 patients. Additionally, all but 1 patient reported a cosmetic deformity. However, all patients found it acceptable. Conclusion: Late reconstruction for chronic ruptures of the distal biceps using allograft tissue is a safe and effective solution for symptomatic patients with functional demands in forearm supination and elbow flexion. While there are several graft options, the literature supports good results with Achilles tendon allografts. Further studies are needed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of other allograft options.

Long Head of the Biceps Tenodesis With Cortical Button Technique

There are several options for long head of the biceps (LHB) tenodesis and yet no standard of care. This technical note describes a cortical button technique for LHB tenodesis. We have taken the BicepsButton (Arthrex, Naples, FL) for distal biceps acute primary repair and applied it to the LHB. The biceps tenotomy is completed arthroscopically, and a standard subpectoral approach is used. The biceps is pulled out and whipstitched starting at the myotendinous junction and moving proximally. The humerus is drilled in a unicortical manner slightly larger than the tendon, and the button is passed through a small hole to the posterior cortex. A suture through the tendon provides additional fixation strength to the construct. This is an elegant and effective method of tenodesis that uses a smaller-diameter drill hole in the humerus. The goals of LHB tenodesis are to restore function, reduce pain, and improve cosmesis. This technique offers comparable function and cosmesis with the potential advantage of improving postoperative pain outcomes and lowering the rate of complications.

Outcomes of Total Hip Arthroplasty in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Positive Patients

Today, patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) live long enough to develop chronic degenerative and HIV-associated joint disease. There is a growing population of patients infected with HIV who are candidates for total hip arthroplasty (THA). A total of 31 HIV-positive, non-hemophilic patients undergoing 41 THAs at our institution between 2000 and 2012 were identified. In-hospital medical complications were reported in 5 of 41 hips, all of which resolved prior to discharge. Deep infection developed in 1 of 41 hips and revision was required in 3 of 41 hips. These results suggest that low rates of complications and revision can be achieved in the HIV-positive, non-hemophilic population. We believe that with careful patient selection, THA may improve the quality of life in the HIV-positive population.

Arthroscopic Anatomic Humeral Head Reconstruction With Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation for Large Hill-Sachs Lesions

Anatomic reconstruction of the humeral head with osteochondral allograft has been reported as a solution for large Hill-Sachs lesions with or without glenoid bone loss. However, to date, varying techniques have been used. This technical note describes an arthroscopic reconstruction technique using fresh-frozen, side- and size-matched osteochondral humeral head allograft. Allograft plugs are press fit into the defect without internal fixation and seated flush with the surrounding articular surface. This technique restores the native articular contour of the humeral head without compromising shoulder range of motion. Potential benefits of this all-arthroscopic approach include minimal trauma to the soft tissue and articular surface without the need for hardware or staged reoperation.

Impact of Diabetes Mellitus on Surgical Outcomes in Sports Medicine

Abstract Diabetes mellitus (DM) affects a significant proportion of the patients evaluated and treated by orthopedic surgeons who specialize in sports medicine. Sports-medicine-related conditions associated with DM include tendinopathy, adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder, and articular cartilage disease. This article reviews the current literature adressing the effect of DM on surgical outcomes in sports medicine. In general, patients with DM undergo operations more frequently and experience inferior surgical outcomes compared with patients without DM. Diabetes mellitus is associated with increased rates of complications from sports medicine procedures, such as infection, delayed healing, and failure of the operation. However, additional research is needed to determine the full impact of DM on patient outcomes in sports medicine. Surgeons should be cognizant of special considerations in the population of patients with DM and aim to tailor the surgical management of this growing patient population.

Incidence of Patellar Clunk Syndrome in Fixed Versus High-Flex Mobile Bearing Posterior-Stabilized Total Knee Arthroplasty

The geometry of the intercondylar box plays a significant role in the development of patellar clunk syndrome. We reviewed the incidence of patella clunk at mid-to-long-term follow-up of a rotating high-flex versus fixed bearing posterior stabilized TKA design. 188-mobile and 223-fixed bearing TKAs were reviewed for complications, incidence of patellar clunk, treatment, recurrence rates, range of motion, and patient satisfaction. Patellar clunk developed in 22 knees in the mobile (11.7%) and in 4 (1.8%) in the fixed bearing group (P<0.001). 23 out of 26 cases resolved with a single arthroscopic treatment and 2 resolved with a second procedure. The mean postoperative range of motion was 122.4°. All but one patient reported overall satisfaction with the index procedure. In contrast with other recent studies we found a significant incidence of patellar clunk in high-flex mobile bearings. Despite the high rate of patellar clunk syndrome, overall patients did well and were satisfied with their outcomes.

Popliteal Cyst Excision Using Open Posterior Approach After Arthroscopic Partial Medial Meniscectomy

Popliteal cysts are known to be associated with intra-articular pathology, which must be addressed to prevent cyst recurrence. Indications for popliteal cyst excision include cases in which the popliteal cyst does not respond to conservative treatment or arthroscopic intervention or cases in which an underlying cause cannot be found. Several techniques have been described to excise these cysts. Traditionally, open techniques have been associated with cyst recurrence. More recently, arthroscopic cystectomy has been described. However, the risk of recurrence persists because arthroscopy may not afford complete surgical excision. This technical note presents an open posterior technique for popliteal cyst excision that allows for better visualization and complete removal of the cyst while minimizing the risk of neurovascular complications and soft-tissue damage. It is a safe, effective, and straightforward method to achieve symptomatic relief for refractory popliteal cysts.

Arthroscopic Treatment of Rotator Cuff Tendonitis Including Treatment of Acromioclavicular Joint Osteoarthritis and Os Acromiale

Rotator cuff (RTC) tendonitis is a common shoulder pathology originating from a variety of extrinsic factors, intrinsic pathology, or a combination of both. It can be challenging to diagnose the underlying issue; however it is imperative to identify in order to select the appropriate treatment and optimize outcomes. The mainstay of treatment is nonoperative management. Following an adequate trial of non-operative management, surgical intervention may be warranted and should address the concomitant pathology including osseous and soft tissue sources of extrinsic compression. Anatomical variations of the acromion should be identified and addressed when appropriate. Surgeons should also take into consideration the distal clavicle and acromioclavicular joint as possible sources of symptoms. A careful history and physical exam in conjunction with radiographs and advanced imaging can assist in the appropriate treatment of patients with rotator cuff tendonitis that have failed nonoperative management.

Independent Risk Factors for Poor Outcome After Hip Arthroscopy

Objectives: Hip arthroscopy has been an increasingly used tool in the treatment of labral tears, chondral defects and ligamentum teres lesions and has demonstrated efficacy in returning patients to function and relieving their pain. Despite this, failures continue to occur. Our understanding of risk factors for failure or poor outcome continues to evolve as larger cohorts of patients are available for study. We sought to identify risk factors for poor outcome in our patient population. Methods: Prospectively collected data for all patients undergoing hip arthroscopy by a single fellowship-trained surgeon was obtained. All patients were indicated for hip arthroscopy based on standard pre-operative examination as well as routine and advanced imaging. Baseline demographic data regarding patient age, gender, BMI was collected. Patients without two year follow-up were excluded. Baseline pre-operative modified Harris Hip Scores (mHHS) were compared to mHHS at two-year follow-up. “Poor outcome” of initial hip arthroscopy was defined as any combination of: requiring a revision procedure or conversion to THA or mHHS below 70. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify independent risk factors for “poor outcome.” Results: 258 patients met inclusion criteria. Mean age (SD) and body mass index (BMI) were 40.4 years (12.7 years) and 25.6 (4.7) respectively. 62.8% (162/258) of the sample was female. Mean preoperative baseline mHHS was 49.6 (12.5) and average mHHS at two year follow-up was 83.6 (15.6), resulting in a mean improvement of 34.1 (p<0.001). Baseline and 2 year differencess in mHHS by demographic be found in Figures 1,2,3,. Overall revision/THA conversion rate was 16.7% (43/258), while another 10.5% (27/258) of patients reported outcome scores <70, resulting in 27.31% (70/258) having poor outcomes. Independent risk factors for poor outcome were female gender (OR 1.79; p=0.03), obesity (OR 2.1; p=0.04), and pre-operative mHHS lower than 40 (OR 3.34, p<0.001). Conclusion: Our findings that female gender, obesity and poorer preoperative functional status increase the risk for failure of hip arthroscopy coincide and add to an increasing volume of literature examining risk factors for poor outcome after hip arthroscopy. These factors should be taken into consideration with operative indications as well as in counseling patients.