SICOT-J

Retrograde femoral nailing for deformity correction and fracture treatment in osteogenesis imperfecta: clinical and radiological assessment of a novel technique

SICOT J. 2025;11:26. doi: 10.1051/sicotj/2025020. Epub 2025 Apr 17.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Intramedullary anterograde femoral nailing is a standard treatment for femoral deformity and fracture in osteogenesis imperfecta (OI). This study evaluates the clinical and radiological outcomes of a novel retrograde femoral nailing technique.

METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed on 31 patients with OI who underwent retrograde femoral nailing using Dubow-Bailey nails from 2004 to 2019. A total of 54 femurs were treated for femoral deformity or fracture by three senior surgeons, with a mean follow-up of 2.7 years. Clinical outcomes, including knee range of motion and pain, were assessed. Radiological outcomes included deformity angle (DA), neck shaft angle (NSA), mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (mLDFA), and nail positioning on AP and lateral X-rays. Potential complications, including hip osteonecrosis, distal femoral growth arrest, and infections, were also evaluated.

RESULTS: The procedure showed favorable outcomes, with no postoperative knee motion limitations or persistent pain. The mean pre-operative DA on AP and lateral views was 29° and 40°, respectively, with no residual deformity after surgery. The mean NSA and mLDFA were 132° and 101° before surgery, compared to 143° and 89° post-operatively. Nail alignment was optimal in 81% of the femurs, with proper positioning in both the distal epiphysis and femoral neck. No cases of hip osteonecrosis, distal femoral growth arrest, or infection were reported. Hardware migration occurred in seven cases.

CONCLUSION: Retrograde femoral nailing is a safe and effective technique for managing femoral deformities and fractures in OI.

PMID:40245284 | PMC:PMC12005622 | DOI:10.1051/sicotj/2025020

Safety and outcomes of bikini-incision DAA for hip arthroplasty with large acetabular cups (≥56 mm): A single-surgeon series of 215 cases

SICOT J. 2025;11:25. doi: 10.1051/sicotj/2025021. Epub 2025 Apr 14.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: This study evaluates complications associated with the bikini-incision direct anterior approach (DAA) total hip arthroplasty (THA) performed by a single surgeon on a standard operating table, with a focus on cases requiring large acetabular cups (≥56 mm). Secondary objectives include assessing clinical outcomes and implant survivorship.

METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on primary bikini-incision DAA THAs performed by a single surgeon between 2013 and 2024. Cases involving acetabular cups ≥56 mm were included, while emergency hip fracture cases and those requiring posterolateral approaches were excluded. Clinical data, radiographs, and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis were used to assess complications, Harris Hip Scores (HHS), and implant survivorship.

RESULTS: This study included 215 THA procedures performed on 210 male patients (mean age 67 years, BMI 28.6), with an average follow-up of 3.9 years. The primary indication was osteoarthritis (88.4%). The mean preoperative HHS was 41.8, which significantly improved to 92.6 postoperatively (p < 0.001). Complications included lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) neuropraxia (2.3%), periprosthetic fractures (0.93%), and femoral stem subsidence (0.93%). The revision rate was 0.93%, with Kaplan-Meier analysis indicating a 99% survival rate for the stem and 100% survival for the acetabular cup at the final follow-up.

DISCUSSION: The bikini-incision DAA THA using a standard operating table provides excellent short- to mid-term functional outcomes and implant survivorship for patients requiring large acetabular cups (≥56 mm). The approach is associated with low complication and revision rates, supporting its safety and efficacy in this cohort.

PMID:40233248 | PMC:PMC11999402 | DOI:10.1051/sicotj/2025021

Safety and early outcomes of simultaneous bilateral TKA in patients with BMI &gt; 40: A retrospective comparative study

SICOT J. 2025;11:24. doi: 10.1051/sicotj/2025019. Epub 2025 Apr 14.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Simultaneous bilateral total knee arthroplasties (SBTKA) are common in Asia, but surgeons may have a body mass index (BMI) threshold for performing these procedures. However, no guidelines regarding patient weight and SBTKA exist in the literature. We hypothesized that SBTKA can be performed safely and efficiently for morbidly obese patients. We aimed to compare 1) the rate of complications within one year after surgery, 2) operative time, blood loss, and length of stay, and 3) clinical outcomes at one year after SBTKA in patients with BMI < 30 versus 30 < BMI < 40 and BMI > 40.

METHODS: In this retrospective comparative matched (age, ASA score) study, we evaluated 113 patients who underwent SBTKA (posterior stabilized cemented TKA), between 2019 and 2022. The patient population was grouped based on their BMI: BMI < 30 (33 patients), 30 < BMI < 40 (43 patients), and BMI > 40 (37 patients). A complication was defined as an event that could be classified as a grade > 3 according to the Clavien-Dindo classification within one year of surgery. Data on complication rate, operation time, blood loss, and preoperative and post-operative function KSS at one year were compared.

RESULTS: No significant difference in the occurrence of early complications between the three groups was observed. One patient was readmitted for periprosthetic fracture in the BMI < 30 group. There was no significant difference in operative time, blood loss, and KSS score at one year between the three groups. A significant functional improvement was observed in all three groups at the one-year follow-up.

DISCUSSION: This study suggests that SBTKA in patients with a BMI > 40 is safe, with no increased complications, similar surgical time, and blood loss. Significant functional improvement was observed at one year postoperatively. While promising, further multi-center studies are needed to confirm these findings and evaluate long-term outcomes.

PMID:40228109 | PMC:PMC11996129 | DOI:10.1051/sicotj/2025019

Management of a rare case of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in a Paralympic athlete with a transtibial amputation - a case report

SICOT J. 2025;11:23. doi: 10.1051/sicotj/2025022. Epub 2025 Apr 8.

ABSTRACT

Advances in technology, prosthetic components and rehabilitation techniques have improved the quality of life for amputees. Wearing a prosthesis enabled them to participate in sports at a high level. Participating in competitive sports puts them at risk of joint injury. This case describes a disabled professional paralympic athlete with a transtibial amputation who has torn his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). This patient underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction one year before the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Surgery had to be adapted in terms of the patient's operative position, choice of graft and incisions to limit conflict with the prosthesis. Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with an ipsilateral quadriceps tendon graft enabled the patient to return to competition and place 4th in his category at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. This is the first case of ACL reconstruction in a transtibial amputee reported in the literature. It highlights a rare and difficult surgical procedure that can yield good results.

PMID:40198809 | PMC:PMC11978240 | DOI:10.1051/sicotj/2025022

Impact of probe tilt on Graf ultrasonography accuracy for neonatal hip dysplasia screening

SICOT J. 2025;11:22. doi: 10.1051/sicotj/2025016. Epub 2025 Apr 1.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) is the most common congenital musculoskeletal disease of the infantile age. The gold standard for early diagnosis of the disease is the Graf ultrasound method. In our study, we examined the correlation between age of the examined infant and diagnostic errors due to the ultrasound probe tilt effect during examination.

METHODS: Forty-two newborns who underwent ultrasound examination with the Graf method, were included. We categorized the neonates into three age groups (Group#1: 0-1 weeks, Group#2: 3-4 weeks, Group#3: 5-6weeks). Two ultrasound examinations were performed in every group. In the first examination, images were obtained with the probe in vertical position. In the second examination, images were taken with a 10° caudocranial tilt of the probe. Our aim was to measure the α angle in both examination and to mention the possible Type changes according to the Graf classification. The α angle defines the osseous coverage of the femoral head from the acetabulum in the neonatal hip joint.

RESULTS: In many cases, the classification changed from type I to type IIa or D and from type IIa to D, when instead of the vertical acquisition, the ultrasound probe was placed in a 10° caudocranial tilt at the hip joint of the examined infant. At Group#1 of the study we observed 60 Graf classification Type changes (90.91%), while in Group#2 and Group#3 we had 18 (33.33%) and 3 (7.96%) Type changes respectively.

CONCLUSION: As the age of the examined newborns increases, measurement and classification errors due to the tilt effect are significantly reduced. Clinically, the examination will be even more accurate and the use of an incorrect therapeutic approach due to incorrect classification will be avoided. Finally, the optimal time for conducting an ultrasonographic examination is between the 5th and 6th week of life.

PMID:40168551 | PMC:PMC11961070 | DOI:10.1051/sicotj/2025016

Does the change between the native and the prosthetic posterior tibial slope influence the clinical outcomes after posterior stabilized TKA? A review of 793 knees at a minimum of 5 years follow-up

SICOT J. 2025;11:21. doi: 10.1051/sicotj/2025014. Epub 2025 Mar 27.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: The understanding of the influence of posterior tibial slope (PTS) on knee kinematics has increased. However, the PTS influence on clinical outcomes remains unclear. The study aimed to evaluate whether a significant change between the native and the prosthetic tibial plateau PTS influences functional results and the risk of complications following total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS: This was a retrospective, monocentric comparative study. Clinical and radiological data from 793 knees were collected from a prospective surgical database. Inclusion criteria were patients operated with a posterior-stabilized TKA (PS-TKA) for primary tibiofemoral osteoarthritis, with or without associated patellofemoral osteoarthritis, or osteonecrosis of the femoral condyle or tibial plateau, with a minimum follow-up of 5 years. Range of motion and International Knee Society (IKS) score as well as radiological measurements were collected preoperatively and postoperatively at each follow-up visit. Two groups were composed according to the change in PTS between pre- and post-op (Group 1: ≤10°, n = 703; Group 2: >10°, n = 90).

RESULTS: The mean follow-up was 75.5 months ± 9.1. The mean change in PTS from preoperative was 4.96° ± 3.24 in group 1 and 12.7° ± 1.87 in group 2. There was no significant difference in the mean IKS Knee subscore (89.5 ± 10.7 and 89.7 ± 10.2, p = 0.89) and mean IKS Function subscore (88.2 ± 15.7 and 86.3 ± 16.6, p = 0.33) in groups 1 and 2, respectively. Postoperative maximum flexion was very satisfactory in both groups with no clinically relevant difference (120.0 ± 11.9 and 123.0 ± 8.3, p = 0.026). The complication rate was 5.0% (n = 40) (5.5% in group 1; 1.1% in group 2; p = 0.07) while the most common complication requiring further procedure was deep infection (n = 9, 1.1%) and the second most common was stiffness (n = 6, 0.8%).

DISCUSSION: PTS did not influence postoperative maximum flexion or clinical scores and was not associated with a higher complication rate at a minimum 5-year follow-up after PS-TKA.

PMID:40145786 | PMC:PMC11948999 | DOI:10.1051/sicotj/2025014

Lateral approach in robotic total knee arthroplasty for valgus knees: A step-by-step technique

SICOT J. 2025;11:20. doi: 10.1051/sicotj/2025017. Epub 2025 Mar 27.

ABSTRACT

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in valgus knee deformities presents unique challenges, including alignment, soft tissue balance, and implant positioning. The lateral approach offers advantages over the traditional medial approach by improving direct access, patellar tracking, and soft tissue preservation. Robotic-assisted TKA enhances precision, ligament balancing, and patient-specific alignment strategies, such as functional knee positioning (FKP). This study describes a surgical technique integrating the lateral approach with robotic-assisted TKA using FKP principles. The technique is based on an image-based robotic system, ensuring accurate preoperative planning, intraoperative adjustments, and optimized prosthetic placement. Key intraoperative steps, including bone resection strategies, soft tissue balancing, and trial component evaluations, are detailed. The lateral robotic approach with FKP was found to be effective and reproducible, allowing for precise implant alignment and optimized soft tissue balance in valgus knees. This method minimizes the need for extensive lateral releases, preserves vascularity, and ensures postoperative stability. The combination of the lateral approach, robotic-assisted TKA, and FKP represents a promising strategy for valgus knee deformities. Further long-term studies are needed to validate the durability and functional benefits of this technique.

PMID:40145785 | PMC:PMC11948998 | DOI:10.1051/sicotj/2025017

Two-stage exchange of infected total hip arthroplasty with a dual-mobility cup is associated with a low instability rate

SICOT J. 2025;11:19. doi: 10.1051/sicotj/2025013. Epub 2025 Mar 20.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: The two-stage management of hip Prosthetic Joint Infection (PJI) is faced with a high rate of dislocation. Dual mobility (DM) cups have proved effective in reducing the risk of dislocation, but few data are available on the two-stage management of hip PJI. The objectives of this retrospective cohort study were to analyze the rate of dislocation, and the rate of recurrent dislocation and to identify risk factors for dislocation. Our hypothesis was that the use of a DM cup during a two-stage replacement had a low instability rate.

METHODS: Data from 70 two-stage changes with DM cup reimplantation performed in our centre between 2011 and 2020 were retrospectively collated. The mean age was 69 years [18-93], with a mean follow-up of 3.4 years [1.5-9.6]. Dislocation rates and risk factors for prosthetic instability were collected. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify risk factors favouring prosthetic instability.

RESULTS: The rate of dislocation at the last follow-up was 8.6% (6/70), including 4.3% (3/70) in patients with no infection recurrence. The rate of recurrent dislocation was 0% when infection was controlled. The occurrence of spacer dislocation, the presence of immunosuppressive and antiaggregant medication, the local grade of the McPherson score and infection treatment failure were associated with the occurrence of a dislocation. No risk factors were identified in the multivariate analysis.

DISCUSSION: Compared with the rates reported in the literature, the use of a DM cup seems indicated in this context in order to lower the risk of recurrent dislocation. Preventing spacer dislocation and infection recurrence seems to be essential to avoid the risk of instability of the future prosthetic hip.

PMID:40111057 | PMC:PMC11924924 | DOI:10.1051/sicotj/2025013

Current concepts in total knee arthroplasty: Rotating hinge prostheses

SICOT J. 2025;11:18. doi: 10.1051/sicotj/2025010. Epub 2025 Mar 19.

ABSTRACT

This narrative review evaluates the purpose and functionality of rotating hinged total knee arthroplasty (RHTKA). The main indications for an RHTKA are poor bone stock, soft tissue compromise, gross instability, and periprosthetic fractures. Studies have shown that an RHTKA may be used in both the primary and revision scenarios to improve the range of motion and functional outcomes. Radiostereometric analysis has shown that some RHTKA designs are associated with early femoral component micromotion, but this has not translated to increased failure or revision rates. Implant survivorship with a modern RHTKA is comparable to a condylar-constrained TKA at mid-term follow-up. The most common complications associated with RHTKA are aseptic loosening, periprosthetic joint infection, stiffness and periprosthetic fractures.

PMID:40106746 | PMC:PMC11922500 | DOI:10.1051/sicotj/2025010

Liposomal bupivacaine versus standard periarticular injections in total hip and knee arthroplasty: a prospective, randomized non-inferiority trial

SICOT J. 2025;11:17. doi: 10.1051/sicotj/2025012. Epub 2025 Mar 13.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Numerous multimodal pain protocols have been developed to optimize pain control, reduce narcotics consumption, and shorten the length of stay after total hip and knee arthroplasty (THA/TKA). Liposomal bupivacaine (LB) has been postulated to reduce narcotic requirements after arthroplasty but is not without additional cost. The aim of this study was to determine if the addition of LB to our standard periarticular injection would improve postoperative pain and shorten the length of stay in patients undergoing TKA or THA.

METHODS: We performed a prospective randomized, blinded non-inferiority study of patients undergoing THA and TKA. Patients were randomized to a periarticular injection with and without LB. There were 118 hips and 64 knees included in the study with no demographic differences between groups. Post-operative pain management was performed by a second provider who was blinded to the patient's experimental group designation.

RESULTS: Cost analysis determined that LB increased cost by $305 dollars per patient when accounting for the cost of injections as well as intravenous and oral pain medications. LB led to a minor reduction in narcotic use in THA patients (equivalent to a single 10 mg oxycodone dose), but this difference may lack clinical relevance. No significant benefits were observed in TKA patients. No difference was identified in self-reported pain scores or lengths of hospital stay.

DISCUSSION: The addition of LB did not significantly reduce narcotic consumption in patients undergoing TKA, while the cost of LB is prohibitive and should be considered an area of potential cost savings by surgeons and hospitals. The minor reduction in narcotic use in patients undergoing THA likely lacks clinical significance.

PMID:40079611 | PMC:PMC11905768 | DOI:10.1051/sicotj/2025012

Predicting survival outcomes in dedifferentiated chondrosarcoma: a prognostic factor analysis from a National Registry

SICOT J. 2025;11:16. doi: 10.1051/sicotj/2025011. Epub 2025 Mar 13.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Dedifferentiated chondrosarcoma (DDCS) is a high-grade subtype of chondrosarcoma with a poor prognosis. Treatment for localized DDCS generally involves wide resection; the effectiveness of adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy is questionable. This research was designed to find prognostic factors for DDCS and evaluate the impact of adjuvant therapies on localized cases.

METHODS: One hundred thirty-two patients with DDCS diagnosed by pathology in the period 2006 to 2022 were identified in the Japanese National Bone and Soft Tissue Tumor Registry database and were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS: Patients with distant metastases at diagnosis (n = 34) had significantly poorer survival than those without metastases (n = 98), with a 5-year disease-specific survival (DSS) of 9.7% vs. 37.1% (P < 0.0001). For patients without distant metastasis at diagnosis, uni- and multivariate analysis showed that R1 or R2 surgical margin was an independent risk factor linked with unfavorable local recurrence (hazard ratio [HR] 3.39 [95% CI: 1.35-8.52]; P = 0.010). Adjuvant radiotherapy was not associated with local recurrence (HR 2.41 [95% CI: 0.87-6.64]; P = 0.090). Larger size (HR 1.13 [95% CI: 1.06-1.19]; P < 0.001) and no surgery (HR 3.87 [95% CI: 1.61-9.28]; P = 0.002) were independent risk factors for unfavorable DSS. Previous surgery (HR 0.19 [95% CI: 0.04-0.84]; P = 0.028) and adjuvant chemotherapy (HR 0.36 [95% CI: 0.16-0.77]; P = 0.009) were independent risk factors for favorable DSS.

DISCUSSION: Survival may have been improved by chemotherapy, but the effect of adjuvant radiotherapy in controlling the local spread of the tumor appears to have been limited in DDCS cases that were localized.

PMID:40079610 | PMC:PMC11905765 | DOI:10.1051/sicotj/2025011

Thai version of ACL return to sports after injury scale translated with cross-cultural adaptation provided the good validation in Thai patients who received ACL reconstruction

SICOT J. 2025;11:15. doi: 10.1051/sicotj/2025009. Epub 2025 Mar 13.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The Anterior Cruciate Ligament Return to Sports after Injury scale (ACL-RSI) has been translated and culturally adapted into the Thai version. This study aimed to evaluate the reliability and validity of the Thai ACL-RSI for athletes recovering from ACL reconstruction.

METHODS: This study was a cross-sectional study. Forward-backward translation, cultural adaptation, and validation of the Thai ACL-RSI were performed and tested in 40 athletes (8 females, 32 males; mean age 30.2 ± 7.32 years; mean body weight 70.7 ± 13.36 kg; mean height 170.1 ± 6.53 cm; mean body mass index 24.5 ± 3.74 kg/m2; mean time from surgery to evaluation 8.43 ± 1.83 months). Participants completed the translated Thai ACL-RSI and the validated Thai Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK). The Thai ACL-RSI underwent content validity, internal consistency, reliability, and construct validity assessment.

RESULTS: The Thai ACL-RSI demonstrated commendable content validity (item-objective congruence index [IOC] 0.91), internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha coefficient 0.84), and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] 0.75). There was a significant negative correlation with TSK (r = -0.67, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION: The Thai ACL-RSI is validated, reliable, and consistent with the Thai TSK. This instrument can potentially measure psychological factors influencing preparedness for sports participation after ACL reconstruction. The evaluation of return-to-sport readiness should involve a multidisciplinary approach, including surgeons, physiotherapists, and psychologists, to ensure a comprehensive assessment of physical, functional, and psychological factors.

PMID:40079609 | PMC:PMC11905766 | DOI:10.1051/sicotj/2025009

Cemented dual mobility cup for primary total hip arthroplasty: survival and quality of life. A multicenter study

SICOT J. 2025;11:14. doi: 10.1051/sicotj/2025006. Epub 2025 Mar 13.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Dual mobility cups are characterized by having a prosthetic head inside a polyethylene core that later articulates with a metal cup implanted in the acetabulum. These cups can be cemented or uncemented. This study aimed to determine the survival of a cemented dual-mobility cup (CDMC) with a cobalt-chromium head (CoCr) and the quality of life (QOL) of operated patients.

METHODOLOGY: Multicenter historical cohort study where survival and QOL were estimated. The cohort includes patients who underwent a primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) with a CDMC and CoCr head. The patients were operated on between 2011 and 2013.

RESULTS: 40 patients from 6 institutions with a median age of 81 (IQR 22.25) years. The results in the Kaplan-Meier estimation showed a survival of 94.2% (95% CI [86.6% - 100%]) at 5 years and a maximum follow-up of 9.5 years. Three failures occurred (two dislocations and one mechanical loosening), and Oxford Hip Scale (OHS) of 41.5 (IQR 10.50) points was recorded.

CONCLUSIONS: In terms of survival and the score obtained in the OHS, the CDMC has comparable results with the scientific literature found on uncemented dual mobility cups. This demonstrates adequate results in patients with a maximum follow-up of 9.5 years.

PMID:40079608 | PMC:PMC11905767 | DOI:10.1051/sicotj/2025006

Cutaneous metallosis following ceramic insert fracture in total hip arthroplasty: a case report and revision with ceramic-on-ceramic bearing couple

SICOT J. 2025;11:13. doi: 10.1051/sicotj/2025007. Epub 2025 Mar 7.

ABSTRACT

Ceramic fractures in total hip arthroplasty (THA) are rare complications that pose significant challenges for revision surgery. This case report describes a 68-year-old male who experienced a spontaneous alumina (ceramic) insert and head fracture four years after the initial THA. The first revision with cobalt-chrome and polyethylene components led to severe metallosis, including subcutaneous tissue discoloration. A second revision utilized a ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC) bearing couple, resulting in excellent functional outcomes and resolution of symptoms. Cutaneous pigmentation post-THA is rare and has not been previously reported following a ceramic fracture. The case underscores the need for careful material selection in revision surgery to minimize complications such as metallosis. The decision to use a ceramic-on-ceramic bearing couple in this case proved effective, ensuring durability and reducing the risk of third-body wear, which can result from inadequate management of ceramic fractures and lead to joint, systemic, or cutaneous complications.

PMID:40053848 | PMC:PMC11888584 | DOI:10.1051/sicotj/2025007

Robotic total knee arthroplasty for moderate to high-grade valgus knee deformity: technique and outcomes

SICOT J. 2025;11:12. doi: 10.1051/sicotj/2025005. Epub 2025 Mar 4.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Although the surgical techniques and functional outcomes of conventional total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are well-established, there is limited data available on robotic arm-assisted TKA (RATKA) in the context of valgus knee arthroplasty. The purpose of this study is to assess the efficacy of RATKA in the correction of moderate to severe valgus knee deformities using minimally constrained implants and to evaluate the short-term functional outcomes associated with this technique.

METHODS: This prospective study was conducted on patients with moderate to severe grade valgus knee deformity who underwent RATKA from August 1, 2020 to May 31, 2022. Of 873 primary RATKA cases, 48 cases had valgus knee deformities. Among these, 27 had grade 2-3 valgus with intact medial collateral ligament (MCL), two had grade 3 valgus with incompetent MCL, 14 had grade 1 valgus, and five had post-traumatic valgus deformities. Over a two-year follow-up period, functional outcomes were assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and Knee Society Score (KSS), and complications were documented; however, radiological outcomes were not analyzed.

RESULTS: Among 27 patients with Grade 2-3 valgus, the final cohort included 21 patients (24 knees). The mean age was 58.33 ± 9.63 years and 70.8% were female. Ten (41.7%) patients had rheumatoid arthritis and 14 (58.3%) had degenerative osteoarthritis (OA). The median surgical time was 68.00 (13.00) minutes, and the median blood loss was 478.45 (176.25) mL. The valgus grade was reduced from a baseline value of 22.43 ± 7.05 degrees to 5.26 ± 1.53 degrees at 6 weeks. The WOMAC scores improved from 67.58 ± 7.27 at baseline to 1.38 ± 0.57 in the second year post-operatively. Similarly, the KSS scores improved from 26.67 ± 10.34 at baseline to 181.96 ± 7.20 in the second year. One patient sustained a Type II supracondylar femur fracture after a fall, managed with distal femur arthroplasty, while another had delayed tibia pin tract healing, treated with antibiotics and dressings.

CONCLUSION: RATKA facilitates precise correction of moderate to severe valgus deformity through enhanced surgical planning and execution, achieving adequate functional outcomes with minimal complications through the application of functional alignment philosophy.

PMID:40035462 | PMC:PMC11878094 | DOI:10.1051/sicotj/2025005

Impact of screw reinsertion on osteosynthesis stability in Schatzker IV tibial plateau fractures: a biomechanical study

SICOT J. 2025;11:11. doi: 10.1051/sicotj/2025008. Epub 2025 Feb 27.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: This biomechanical study evaluated the effect of screw reinsertion with a locking plate on fixation strength and the stability of osteosynthesis in medial tibial plateau fractures using porcine bone.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty porcine tibiae were divided into three groups: group A (underwent biomechanical testing after medial tibial fixation with a large fragment T-shaped locking plate), group B (underwent plate fixation, followed by the removal of all screws and plates and refixation with the same screws and plates using the same holes before biomechanical testing), and group C (underwent biomechanical testing once after plate fixation, followed by the removal of all screws and plates, refixation with the same screws and plates using the same holes, and then biomechanical testing). The translation pattern of the constructs in each group was examined using cyclic loading tests. The changes in the joint gap and step-off after 2000 cycles were compared among the three groups.

RESULTS: Significant differences in displacement were observed at 10-100 cycles (group A: -0.01 ± 0.04 mm, group B: -0.02 ± 0.04 mm, group C: -0.13 ± 0.15 mm, P = 0.021). However, no significant differences were found in other displacement and translation measurements among the groups. Regarding the gap and step-off among groups, significant differences were observed in anterior and posterior gap changes. Despite the statistical significance, the absolute displacement values were small, suggesting minimal clinical relevance. These findings indicate that reinserting screws and plates into the same hole may not substantially compromise overall fixation strength.

CONCLUSION: Screw reinsertion in the same holes after removal did not significantly compromise the stability of osteosynthesis in this biomechanical model. These findings suggest that reinsertion may be a viable option in revision surgery.

PMID:40014800 | PMC:PMC11867604 | DOI:10.1051/sicotj/2025008

Therapeutic options in rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy

SICOT J. 2025;11:9. doi: 10.1051/sicotj/2025003. Epub 2025 Feb 20.

ABSTRACT

There are many variables that influence the decision-making process in the treatment of rotator cuff calcifications. The stage of the deposit, prognostic factors, previous failed treatments, pain level, and functional disability must all be considered. The tendency for spontaneous resolution is an important reason to always exhaust conservative treatment, being non-invasive options the first line of treatment. The emergence of focused shock wave therapy offered a powerful tool for the non-invasive management of rotator cuff calcifications. High-energy focused shock waves have a high degree of recommendation for the treatment of rotator cuff calcifications, supported by meta-analyses and systematic reviews. If non-invasive techniques fail, there is the possibility of moving to a minimally invasive procedure such as ultrasound-guided barbotage. Finally, classic invasive techniques are also a frequent indication, including open surgery and arthroscopy. As each treatment has advantages and disadvantages, the most advisable strategy is to progress from the least invasive therapeutic methods to the most invasive ones without losing sight of the clinical stage of the disease and the general context of each patient.

PMID:39977646 | PMC:PMC11841982 | DOI:10.1051/sicotj/2025003

Limited accuracy of transtibial aiming for anatomical femoral tunnel positioning in ACL reconstruction

SICOT J. 2025;11:8. doi: 10.1051/sicotj/2025002. Epub 2025 Feb 10.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture is a common knee injury, and with advancements in knee arthroscopy, ACL reconstruction has become common. Techniques like single-double bundle and femoral tunnel drilling via transtibial or anteromedial portal approaches are available. This study evaluates the accuracy of femoral tunnel placement via these approaches in single-bundle ACL reconstruction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-three ACL reconstructions using hamstring grafts were analyzed. Initially, femoral tunnels were drilled via the anteromedial portal from 09:30 to 10:00 (14:00 to 14:30 for left knees). Tibial tunnels (mean anteroposterior angle: 63.5°, sagittal: 64.2°) were then created with the same diameter, accompanied by radiological documentation. A femoral aiming device was used to place a K-wire at the center of the femoral tunnel, recorded photographically. Tunnel diameters included 7 mm (20 cases), 7.5 mm (11 cases), 8 mm (7 cases), 8.5 mm (3 cases), and 9 mm (1 case). Two observers evaluated all radiological and photographic data, focusing on the deviation of the transtibial K-wire from the femoral tunnel center.

RESULTS: Of 38 evaluated cases, the transtibial K-wire was within the femoral tunnel in 11 cases (28.9%) - 7 cases with 7 mm, 2 cases each with 7.5 mm and 8 mm diameters. In 23 cases (60.5%), the K-wire was at the perimeter or outside the femoral tunnel - 11 cases with 7 mm, 8 with 7.5 mm, 4 with 8 mm, 3 with 8.5 mm, and 1 with 9 mm diameters.

CONCLUSION: Transtibial aiming for anatomical femoral tunnel positioning is challenging. No significant correlation was found between the transtibial deviation and the tibial tunnel diameter.

PMID:39927689 | PMC:PMC11809194 | DOI:10.1051/sicotj/2025002

Functional knee positioning in patients with valgus deformity undergoing image-based robotic total knee arthroplasty: Surgical technique

SICOT J. 2025;11:7. doi: 10.1051/sicotj/2025001. Epub 2025 Feb 10.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Functional knee positioning (FKP) represents an innovative personalized approach for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) that reconstructs a three-dimensional alignment based on the optimal balance of soft tissue and bony structures, but it has mostly been described for varus knee deformity.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: Valgus deformities present specific challenges due to altered bone remodeling and soft tissue imbalances. Using robotic assistance, FKP enables precise intraoperative assessment and correction of compartmental gaps, accommodating each individual's unique anatomy and laxities. The distal femoral cut is calibrated for 9 mm resection at the intact medial femoral condyle and adjusted on the lateral side to accommodate bone wear, while the tibial plateau resection aims for 8 mm from the medial side and 4-6 mm from the lateral side. Intraoperative evaluations of mediolateral laxities are performed at extension and 90° flexion. Adjustments are made to femoral and tibial cuts to balance gaps, aiming for 0 mm in posterior stabilized implants and minimal discrepancies in cruciate-retaining designs with lateral gap looser in flexion.

DISCUSSION: FKP emphasizes soft tissue-driven adjustments with the use of robotic platforms. Hence, intact soft tissue envelope of the knee is essential. This technique holds significant promise for managing valgus deformities in TKA, but further research is needed to evaluate its functional outcomes.

PMID:39927688 | PMC:PMC11809196 | DOI:10.1051/sicotj/2025001

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