Stephanie Boden

Return to Play After Shoulder Instability Surgery in National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Intercollegiate Football Athletes

Background: Recent attention has focused on the optimal surgical treatment for recurrent shoulder instability in young athletes. Collision athletes are at a higher risk for recurrent instability after surgery. Purpose: To evaluate variables affecting return-to-play (RTP) rates in Division I intercollegiate football athletes after shoulder instability surgery. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: Invitations to participate were made to select sports medicine programs that care for athletes in Division I football conferences (Pac-12 Conference, Southeastern Conference [SEC], Atlantic Coast Conference [ACC]). After gaining institutional review board approval, 7 programs qualified and participated. Data on direction of instability, type of surgery, time to resume participation, and quality and level of play before and after surgery were collected. Results: There were 168 of 177 procedures that were arthroscopic surgery, with a mean 3.3-year follow-up. Overall, 85.4% of players who underwent arthroscopic surgery without concomitant procedures returned to play. Moreover, 15.6% of athletes who returned to play sustained subsequent shoulder injuries, and 10.3% sustained recurrent instability, resulting in reduction/revision surgery. No differences were noted in RTP rates in athletes who underwent anterior labral repair (82.4%), posterior labral repair (92.9%), combined anterior-posterior repair (84.8%; P = .2945), or open repair (88.9%; P = .9362). Also, 93.3% of starters, 95.4% of utilized players, and 75.7% of rarely used players returned to play. The percentage of games played before the injury was 49.9% and rose to 71.5% after surgery (P < .0001). Athletes who played in a higher percentage of games before the injury were more likely to return to play; 91% of athletes who were starters before the injury returned as starters after surgery. Scholarship status significantly correlated with RTP after surgery (P = .0003). Conclusion: The majority of surgical interventions were isolated arthroscopic stabilization procedures, with no statistically significant difference in RTP rates when concomitant arthroscopic procedures or open stabilization procedures were performed. Athletes who returned to play often played in a higher percentage of games after surgery than before the injury, and many played at the same or a higher level after surgery.

The impact of prophylactic intraoperative vancomycin powder on microbial profile, antibiotic regimen, length of stay, and reoperation rate in elective spine surgery

BACKGROUND CONTEXTnThere is growing concern that the microbial profile of surgical site infection (SSI) in the setting of prophylactic vancomycin powder may favor more resistant and uncommon organisms.nnnPURPOSEnTo demonstrate the impact of prophylactic intraoperative vancomycin powder on microbial profile, antibiotic regimen, length of stay (LOS), and reoperation rate in spine surgical site infection.nnnSTUDY DESIGN AND/OR SETTINGnRetrospective cohort study.nnnPATIENT SAMPLEnthe study included 115 postoperative spine patients who were required to return to the operating room for SSI.nnnOUTCOME MEASURESnThe outcome measures were microbial profile, reoperation rate, antibiotic regimen, and LOS for patients with postoperative spine infection who either did (treated) or did not (untreated) receive prophylactic vancomycin powder during their index procedure.nnnMETHODSnA retrospective review of patients who underwent posterior thoracic and/or lumbar spine surgery between 2010 and 2017 was conducted. Those undergoing surgical treatment of SSI were identified, and patients were divided into two groups - those who were treated with intraoperative vancomycin (treated) and those who were not (untreated). The organism profile for each group was compared. The average LOS, reoperation rate, and number of patients requiring more than 1 antibiotic were calculated for each patient in both groups.nnnRESULTSnThere were 5,909 procedures performed. One hundred and fifteen SSIs were identified, resulting in a 1.9% infection rate. Prophylactic vancomycin powder was used in the index procedure for 42 of those cases. 23.8% of cultures in the vancomycin group were polymicrobial and 16.7% were gram-negative compared with 9.6% (p=0.039) and 4.1% (p=0.021) in the untreated group, respectively. In the vancomycin-treated group, 26.1% of patients underwent repeat irrigation and debridement compared with 38.4% in the untreated group (p=0.184). The percentage of patients in the treatment and untreated group who required more than 1 antibiotic was 26.0% and 26.1%, respectively (p=0.984). Mean LOS in the treatment group was 8.0 versus 7.9 for the untreated group (p=0.945) CONCLUSIONS: In this series, vancomycin powder was associated with a higher prevalence of gram-negative and polymicrobial organisms in patients that ultimately developed postoperative SSI. However, this did not adversely affect the need for multiple reoperations, antibiotic regimen, or LOS for these patients.

Quadriceps Strength Deficits After a Femoral Nerve Block Versus Adductor Canal Block for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Prospective, Single-Blinded, Randomized Trial

Background: Peripheral nerve blocks, particularly femoral nerve blocks (FNBs), are commonly performed for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. However, associated quadriceps muscle weakness after FNBs is well described and may occur for up to 6 months postoperatively. The adductor canal block (ACB) has emerged as a viable alternative to the FNB, theoretically causing less quadriceps weakness during the immediate postoperative period, as it bypasses the majority of the motor fibers of the femoral nerve that branch off proximal to the adductor canal. Purpose/Hypothesis: This study sought to identify if a difference in quadriceps strength exists after an ACB or FNB for ACL reconstruction beyond the immediate postoperative period. Beyond the immediate postoperative period, we anticipated no difference in quadriceps strength between patients who received ACBs or FNBs for ACL reconstruction. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. Methods: A total of 102 patients undergoing primary ACL reconstruction using a variety of graft types were enrolled between November 2015 and April 2016. All patients were randomized to receive an ACB or FNB before surgery, and the surgeon was blinded to the block type. All patients underwent aggressive rehabilitation without functional bracing postoperatively. The time to the first straight-leg raise was reported by the patient. Isokinetic strength testing was performed at 3 and 6 months postoperatively. Results: Data for 73 patients were analyzed. There was no significant difference in patient demographics of age, body mass index, sex, or tourniquet time between the FNB (n = 35) and ACB (n = 38) groups. The mean time to the first straight-leg raise was similar, at 13.1 ± 1.0 hours for the FNB group and 15.5 ± 1.2 hours for the ACB group (P = .134). The mean extension torque at 60 deg/s increased significantly for both the ACB (53.7% ± 3.4% to 68.3% ± 2.9%; P = .008) and the FNB (53.3% ± 3.3% to 68.5% ± 4.1%; P = .006) groups from 3 to 6 months postoperatively. There was also no significant difference in mean extension torque at 60 deg/s or 180 deg/s between the FNB and ACB groups at 3 and 6 months. There were no significant differences in postoperative complications (infection, arthrofibrosis, retear) between groups. Conclusion: Although prior studies have shown immediate postoperative benefits of ACBs compared with FNBs, with a faster return of quadriceps strength, in the current study there was no statistically or clinically significant difference in quadriceps strength at 3 and 6 months postoperatively in patients who received ACBs or FNBs for ACL reconstruction.

Biomechanical Evaluation of Standard Versus Extended Proximal Fixation Olecranon Plates for Fixation of Olecranon Fractures

Background: Small olecranon fractures present a significant challenge for fixation, which has resulted in development of plates with proximal extension. Olecranon-specific plates with proximal extensions are widely thought to offer superior fixation of small proximal fragments but have distinct disadvantages: larger dissection, increased hardware prominence, and the increased possibility of impingement. Previous biomechanical studies of olecranon fracture fixation have compared methods of fracture fixation, but to date there have been no studies defining olecranon plate fixation strength for standard versus extended olecranon plates. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the biomechanical utility of the extended plate for treatment of olecranon fractures. Methods: Sixteen matched pairs of fresh-frozen human cadaveric elbows were used. Of the 16, 8 matched pairs received a transverse osteotomy including 25% and 8 including 50% of the articular surface on the proximal fragment. One elbow from each pair was randomly assigned to a standard-length plate, and the other elbow in the pair received the extended-length plate, for fixation of the fracture. The ulnae were cyclically loaded and subsequently loaded to failure, with ultimate load, number of cycles, and gap formation recorded. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the standard and extended fixation plates in simple transverse fractures at either 25% or 50% from the proximal most portion of the articular surface of the olecranon. Conclusion: Standard fixation plates are sufficient for the fixation of small transverse fractures, but caution should be utilized particularly with comminution and nontransverse fracture patterns.

Liquifying PLDLLA Anchor Fixation in Achilles Reconstruction for Insertional Tendinopathy

Insertional Achilles tendinopathy (IAT) is a frequent cause of posterior heel pain and is often associated with Haglund’s deformity. Surgical correction for refractory cases of IAT has been well studied; however, the method of tendon fixation to bone in these procedures remains controversial, and to date, no standard technique has been identified for tendon fixation in these surgeries. Often, after Haglund’s resection, there is large exposed cancellous surface for Achilles reattachment, which may require unique fixation to optimize outcomes. Previous studies have consistently demonstrated improved patient outcomes after Achilles tendon reconstruction with early rehabilitation with protected weight bearing, evidencing the need for a strong and stable anchoring of the Achilles tendon that allows early weight bearing without tendon morbidity. In this report, we highlight the design, biomechanics, and surgical technique of Achilles tendon reconstruction with Haglund’s deformity using a novel technique that utilizes ultrasonic energy to liquefy the suture anchor, allowing it to incorporate into surrounding bone. Biomechanical studies have demonstrated superior strength of the suture anchor utilizing this novel technique as compared with prior techniques. However, future research is needed to ensure that outcomes of this technique are favorable when compared with outcomes using traditional suture anchoring methods. Levels of Evidence: Level V: Operative technique

Comorbidities associated with poor outcomes following operative hammertoe correction in a geriatric population

Category: Lesser Toes Introduction/Purpose: Hammertoe deformities are one of the most common lesser foot deformities and are extremely prevalent in the geriatric population. When nonoperative treatment fails, surgical correction can improve functional status and pain. While complications following these surgeries are rare, older patients with comorbid conditions are often considered worse operative candidates due to an increased risk of adverse outcomes. The aim of this study is to determine if specific comorbidities or perioperative variables are associated with increased complications or unsuccessful outcomes following operative hammertoe correction in geriatric patients. Methods: Prospectively collected data was reviewed on 31 consecutive patients aged 60 or older who underwent operative correction of hammertoe deformity. Patient demographics, comorbidities, perioperative variables, and postoperative complications were recorded from their electronic medical records. Clinical outcomes were assessed utilizing preoperative and postoperative Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Short Form Health Survey Physical Component Score (SF-36 PCS) with a minimum of six-month follow-up. Data was examined using Fisher’s method and multivariable analysis. Results: 29.0% (9/31) of patients had a history of smoking, 61.2% (19/31) were on anticoagulant therapy, 19.4% (6/31) had osteoporosis, 16.1% (5/31) had rheumatoid arthritis, and 9.7% (3/31) had diabetes mellitus. The mean tourniquet and operative times were 65.7 (SE=6.2) and 95.4 (SE=7.4) minutes, respectively. Postoperative complications occurred in 12.9% (4/31) of patients with the most prevalent being wound infections that were treated with antibiotics in 9.7% (3/31). Impaired wound healing, joint nonunion, and the need for revision surgery each occurred in 3.2% (1/31) of patients. Mean 6-month improvement in VAS was 2.1 (SE=0.5) and mean improvement in SF-36 PCS was 10.2 (SE = 3.4). No significant association was found between comorbidities or perioperative variables and postoperative complications or improved outcomes. Conclusion: No specific comorbidities or perioperative variables were identified that increase the risk for unsuccessful surgical correction of hammertoe deformities. While comorbidities in the geriatric population have traditionally been thought to increase complication rates and lead to poor outcomes, further research in this area is warranted. Comorbidities should not necessarily be a deterrent for geriatric patients pursuing operative hammertoe correction.

Complication Rates and Short-Term Outcomes After Operative Hammertoe Correction in Older Patients:

Background: Hammertoe deformities are the most common lesser toe deformity. To date, no studies have looked at outcomes of operative management in the geriatric population, which may be at greater risk for complications or functional compromise because of comorbidities. Methods: Data on 58 patients undergoing operative correction of hammertoe deformities were prospectively collected. Clinical outcomes were assessed using preoperative and postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) and Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) scores with a minimum of 6-month follow-up. Patients were divided into 2 groups on the basis of age at the time of surgery: younger than 65 and 65 and older. Complication rates and mean VAS and SF-36 improvement were compared. Forty-seven patients met inclusion criteria (7 men, 40 women), with 26 patients (37 toes) in the younger cohort and 21 patients (39 toes) in the older cohort. Results: Overall, patients demonstrated significant improvement from baseline to 6 and 12 months postoperatively in VAS (P < .001 and P < .001) and SF-36 (P < .001 and P < .001) scores. Mean improvement in VAS and SF-36 scores was not significantly different between the groups at 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Complications occurred in 13.5% and 10.3% of patients in the younger and older cohorts, respectively. Conclusions: Outcomes of operative correction of hammertoe deformities in older patients were similar to outcomes in younger patients after greater than 6 months of follow-up. Overall improvement in VAS and SF-36 was statistically significant for both cohorts. There was no associated increase in complications for older patients. Level of Evidence: Level, III comparative series.

Assessment of Recovery From Geriatric Ankle Fracture Using The Life Space Mobility Assessment (LSA)

Category: Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Ankle fractures are the third most common type of fracture seen in the elderly population and recent work has suggested that operative intervention may provide improved outcomes. Current outcome measures do not accurately assess true mobility in the geriatric population. In this study, we utilize the Life Space Assessment (LSA), a novel medical assessment survey which focuses specifically on how a patient functions within his/her environment following a medical event. This tool has not been previously utilized in orthopedic patients. We postulated that the LSA would provide improved assessment of these patients and help identify key differences in operative and non-operatively treated patients when compared to current outcome measures. Methods: This study was designed as a prospective observational study in which all geriatric patients age 65 and older with an ankle fracture were followed for one year from the time they presented for treatment. Treatment options of either non- operative or operative were determined by the attending physician on a patient specific basis. The patient was invited to participate in the study at the initial injury visit. The LSA was administered at the initial visit and 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 12 months post injury/surgery. The SF-36 and Visual Analogue Pain Scale surveys were administered at 6 months and 12 months as a comparison. Survey scores were tallied and standard means were determined for each time point. Statistical analyses were performed to determine significance. Results: 26 patients met inclusion criteria and 20 were enrolled. 11 underwent surgery while 9 were treated non-operatively. The surgical LSA group scored 91.4 pre-injury and improved to 87.6 after 1 year which was near baseline (Graph #1). The non-op group recorded 80.88 pre-injury and only improved to 59.5 at 1 year. For the VAS, surgical patients reported pain of 2.2 and 1.75 at 6 and 12 months. Non-op patients recorded pain of 2.25 and 2.4 at 6 and 12 months. For SF-36 physical score, surgical patients recorded 57.6 and 75.8 at 6 and 12 months while non-op patients scored 53.3 and 59.43. SF-36 mental scores for the surgical group was 60.63 and 74.83 while non-op patients recorded 76.88 and 86.5 at 6 and 12 months. Conclusion: Operative patients returned to their baseline LSA while non-operative patients continued to have lower mobility at one year. All patients’ mobility was significantly limited for first three months. Surgical patients had less pain at 12 months compared to non-op. Surgical patients showed significant improvement in SF-36 physical scores from 6 months to 1 year while non-op patients had minimal improvement echoing our findings from LSA. The operative group had improved outcomes compared to non-op and this is reflected in both their LSA and SF- 36 scores. Further investigations are needed to determine optimal treatment paradigm for geriatric ankle fracture patients.

Complication rates and short-term outcomes similar after hammertoe correction in older patients

Category: Lesser Toes Introduction/Purpose: Hammertoe deformities are common lesser toe deformities and multiple methods exist for surgical treatment. The population continues to age and to date, no studies have looked specifically at outcomes in the geriatric cohort, who are often at greater risk of complications or functional compromise due to increased co-morbidities. This study examines differences in short-term outcomes of pain, improvement of SF-36 scores, and complication rates in younger compared to older patients who underwent surgical correction of hammertoe deformities. Methods: 47 patients undergoing surgical correction of hammertoe deformities were prospectively followed. All surgical procedures were performed by a single surgeon and the specific surgical technique was tailored to each patient’s deformity. All patients were treated with early mobilization and progressive weight-bearing as tolerated. Subjective assessment of function was obtained using pre-operative and post-operative Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) scores with a minimum of six-month follow-up. 38 patients met inclusion criteria for length of follow-up (5 males, 33 females). Patients were divided into two groups based on age at the time of surgery (those younger than sixty years old, and those older than sixty years old). The improvements in mean (+/- SEM) VAS and SF-36 scores for patients younger than sixty years were compared to outcomes of patients older than sixty years of age, and results were assessed for statistical significance using a student’s t-test. Results: The mean age was 46.4 +/- 4.1 years in the younger patients and 68.0 +/- 1.2 years in the older cohort. The mean improvement in VAS score from pre-op to six months post-op was 2.8 +/- 0.8 and 2.8 +/- 0.6 (p = 0.95) in the younger and older cohorts, respectively (Table 1). The mean improvement in SF-36 Physical Component Score from pre-op to six months post-op was 8.6 +/- 6.7 and 6.7 +/- 4.4 (p= 0.81) in the younger and older cohorts, respectively. The mean improvement in SF-36 Mental Component Score was 1.5 +/- 3.7 and 1.4 +/- 4.2 (p=0.99) in the younger and older cohorts, respectively. One complication occurred in the younger cohort (0.11%) and no complications were reported in the older cohort. Conclusion: Outcomes of surgical correction of hammertoe deformities in older patients were similar to outcomes in younger patients at short-term follow-up. The study had sufficient power to detect differences in means as small as 5-8% depending on the specific outcome parameter. This study establishes a cohort of patients who will be followed to determine the effect of age on long-term outcomes of pain, SF-36 scores, and complication rates of surgical correction of hammertoe deformities. Future studies will also compare radiologic outcomes of hammertoe deformities preoperatively and postoperatively.