Acromion-axillary Nerve Distance and Its Relation to the Humeral Length in the Prediction of the Axillary Nerve Position During the Anterolateral Deltoid-splitting Approach in the Treatment of Proximal Humerus Fractures: a Clinical Study

Background Because of the broad anatomical variation in the course of the axillary nerve, several cadaveric studies have investigated the acromion-axillary nerve distance and its association with the humeral length to predict the axillary nerve location. This study aimed to analyze the acromion-axillary nerve distance (AAND) and its relation to the arm length (AL) in patients who underwent internal plate fixation for proximal humerus fractures.Methods The present prospective study involved 37 patients (15 female, 22 male; the mean age = 51 years, age range = 19 to 76) with displaced proximal humerus fractures who were treated by open reduction and internal fixation. After anatomic reduction and fixation was achieved, the following parameters were measured in each patient before wound closure without making an extra incision or dissection: (1) the distance from the anterolateral edge of the acromion to the course of axillary nerve was recorded as the acromion-axillary nerve distance and (2) the distance from the anterolateral edge of the acromion to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus was recorded as arm length. The ratio of AAND to AL was then calculated and recorded as the axillary nerve index.Results The mean AAND was 6 ± 0.36 cm (range = 5.5–6.6), and the mean arm length was 32.91 ± 2.9 cm (range = 24–38). The mean axillary nerve ratio was 0.18 ± 0.02 (range = 0.16 to 0.23). There was a significant moderate positive correlation between AL and AAND (p = 0.006; r = 0.447). The axillary nerve location was predictable in only 18% of the patients.Conclusion During the anterolateral deltoid-splitting approach to the shoulder joint, 5.5 cm from the anterolateral edge of the acromion could be considered as a safe zone for the prevention of possible axillary nerve injury.

Does robotic technology successfully restore the joint line after total knee arthroplasty? A retrospective analysis

Background Our study aims to determine the effectiveness of robotic technology for total knee arthroplasty in the successful restoration of the joint line of the knee with respect to that of a normal human anatomical knee. The restoration of the joint line is an important technical goal on which the postoperative outcomes and the success of the surgery depend. Methods Sixty-four postoperative plain anteroposterior radiographs of 60 patients, who received total knee arthroplasty by using the robotic technology were analyzed and compared with 66 similar radiographs of 60 patients who received the conventional method. The distances of the lateral epicondyle to the joint line (LEJL) and proximal tibiofibular joint to the joint line (PTFJJL) were calculated and analyzed. Results We found that the mean value of LEJL minus PTFJJL in the robotic group was 0.334 ± 0.115 (mean ± SD), while in the conventional group, it was 2.304 ± 0.308. The difference between the two groups was statistically significant. The mean ratio (LEJL:PTFJJL) in the robotic group was also equal to 1.017 ± 0.042. Conclusion From these findings it could be concluded that the robotic technology significantly increases the accuracy of the total knee arthroplasty and, compared to the conventional method, achieves an almost anatomical position of the joint line.

COMPARATIVE STUDY REGARDING THE BENEFITS OF USING MEDICAL FLOSSING IN LATERAL EPICONDYLITIS

Although there are multiple published reviews about the effects of the most common techniques, such as stretching or the use of foam roller on the range of motion (Behm et al., 2016; Wilke et al., 2020) or performance parameters (Behm & Wilke, 2019; Konrad et al., 2021), there is no analysis on the effects of medical flossing. To date, two reviews have been publishedabout effectiveness of using ankle flossing to improve dorsiflexion amplitude or jump performance (Pisz et al., 2020; Kielur & Powden, 2020). This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of medical flossing added to routine treatment in patients with epicondylitis, compared to conventional physiotherapy treatment. The study included 6 subjects who showed localized pain in the area of the lateral epicondyle exacerbated with the Cozen test. The other criteria for selecting patients were the duration of the symptoms, less than 3 months from the onset of the disease and pain intensity more than 5 on the Visual Analog scale.To monitor the evolution of the subjects involved, we used a visual analog pain scale to assess the intensity of pain at different times during the application of therapy, before and after the end of the treatment. Another tool used to measure the degree of pain and dysfunction was the PRTEE Questionnaire (Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation). The rehabilitation program took place between August and September 2021, for 30 days, with afrequency of 3 times per week. 6 patients with lateral epicondylitis were included and medical flossing was used only in the case of 3 patients at each therapy session. The differences between groups at the time of the initial assessment, in terms of pain intensity were statistically insignificant (p=0.288, p>0.05). The results obtained in terms of decreasing pain were in favor of the use of medical flossing as an adjuvant method in specific pain existing in lateral epicondylitis. Although in both groups there was a decrease in pain after 4 weeks of treatment, the intervention group recorded significant reduced values compared to the control group (p=0.024; p<0.05). Regarding PRTEE Functional Score, at the final assesment there was a decrease in both groups, which means the functional condition of the patients has improved.

Femoral Positioning of the Anterolateral Ligament Graft With and Without Ultrasound Location of the Lateral Epicondyle

Background: In anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with anterolateral ligament (ALL) reconstruction, precise positioning of the ALL graft on the femur and tibia is key to achieve rotational control. The lateral femoral epicondyle is often used as a reference point for positioning of the ALL graft and can be located by palpation or with ultrasound guidance. Purpose: To compare the ALL graft positioning on the femoral side between an ultrasound-guided technique and a palpation technique for the location of the lateral epicondyle. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Methods: A total of 120 patients receiving a primary combined ACL and ALL reconstruction between June and December 2019 were included. The location of the lateral epicondyle was determined by palpation in the palpation group (n = 60) and with preoperative ultrasound guidance in the ultrasound group (n = 60). Groups were comparable in age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and operated side. The planned positioning of the femoral ALL graft was proximal and posterior to the lateral epicondyle. The effective positioning of the femoral ALL graft was evaluated on postoperative lateral radiographs. The primary outcome was location of the graft in a 10-mm quadrant posterior and proximal to the lateral epicondyle. Results were analyzed in 2 subgroups according to BMI. Results: All 60 anterolateral grafts (100%) in the ultrasound group were positioned in a 10-mm quadrant posterior and proximal to the lateral epicondyle, as opposed to 52 (87%) in the palpation group ( P = .006). Errors in graft positioning with palpation occurred in overweight patients (BMI >25) as well as nonoverweight patients ( P = .3). Conclusion: Femoral positioning of the ALL graft posterior and proximal to the lateral epicondyle is more reproducible with ultrasound guidance when compared with palpation alone, regardless of BMI.

The risk of iatrogenic radial nerve and/or profunda brachii artery injury in anterolateral humeral plating using a 4.5 mm narrow DCP: A cadaveric study

Introduction Fixation of humeral shaft fractures with a plate and screws can endanger the neurovascular structure if proper care is not taken. No studies to our knowledge have studied the risk of iatrogenic radial nerve and/or profunda brachii artery (RNPBA) injury from each screw hole of a 4.5 mm narrow dynamic compression plate (narrow DCP). The purpose of this study is to evaluate the risk of RNPBA injury in anterolateral humeral plating with a 4.5 mm narrow DCP. Material and methods 18 humeri of 9 fresh-frozen cadavers in the supine position were exposed via the anterolateral approach with 45 degrees of arm abduction. A hypothetical fracture line was marked at the midpoint of each humerus. A precontoured ten-hole 4.5mm narrow DCP was applied to the anterolateral surface of the humerus using the fracture line to position the center of the plate. All screw holes were drilled and screws inserted. The cadaver was then turned over to the prone position with 45 degrees of arm abduction, and the RNPBA exposed. The holes through in which 100% of the screw had contact with or penetrated the RNPBA were identified as dangerous screw holes, while lesser percentages of contact were defined as risky. Results The relative distance ratios of the entire humeral length from the lateral epicondyle of the humerus to the 4th, 3rd, 2nd and 1st proximal holes were 0.64, 0.60, 0.56 and 0.52, respectively. The most dangerous screw hole was the 2nd proximal, in which all 18 screws had contacted or penetrated the nerve, followed by the risky 1st (12/18), 3rd (8/18) and 4th (2/18) holes. Conclusion In humeral shaft plating with the 4.5mm narrow DCP using the anterolateral approach, the 2nd proximal screw hole carries the highest risk of iatrogenic radial nerve and/or profunda brachii artery injury.

AGNIKARMA USING HONEY IN TENNIS ELBOW

Tennis elbow is a condition in which there is pain on the lateral epicondyle. It is a type of repetitive strain injury due to overexertion of the common extensor tendon (snayu), micro-traumas, or its failed healing. Tennis elbow may be correlated with snāyugata vāta in kūrpara sandhi (elbow) which has symptoms of pain, stiffness and restriction of movements. Ācārya Suśruta has mentioned snigdha agnikarma (thermal cautery) in the management of snayugata vata. 16 participants satisfying the diagnostic, inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected for the study. Agnikarma using honey (madhu) was done on the 1st and 8th days. Clinical assessments were done on the 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th days. On statistical analysis, it was found that agnikarma using madhu shows 68.22% of effect in the management of tennis elbow. Keywords: Tennis elbow, agnikarma, honey

Lateral Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction With a Hamstring Allograft

Background: Medial patellar instability is rare but may occur after lateral retinacular release. The lateral patellofemoral ligament is a significant stabilizer for medial and lateral patellar displacement, and soft tissue–based reconstruction may restore its stabilizing effect. Indications: Lateral patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (LPFLR) is indicated for patellar instability failing exhaustive nonoperative measures. Technique Description: Diagnostic arthroscopy for medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) status, patellar tracking, chondral status, and postoperative changes of lateral retinacular release is conducted. A 5-cm incision is made between the midpoint of the patella and the lateral epicondyle, or a single midline incision can be used if performing a concomitant MPFL reconstruction. Dissection is carried down to the lateral retinaculum and capsule, and two 1-cm incisions are made at the distal and proximal patella through the patellar and quadriceps tendon, respectively. The lateral epicondyle is then directly palpated, and two 1-cm incisions are made directly anterior and posterior to the epicondyle into the iliotibial band in full extension. A hamstring allograft is then shuttled in a V-shaped configuration from the quadriceps tendon through the iliotibial band and finally to the patellar tendon. Excess graft is trimmed and doubled over proximally and distally to replicate the normal (or contralateral) 0° to 15° of patellar eversion. Trial resting length and tension is set with temporary sutures through the proximal and distal doubled graft in full extension. The knee is taken through full range of motion to ensure there is no graft tightening in flexion or loosening in full extension. Eversion and patellar translation are then examined. Heavy nonabsorbable sutures are used to set length of the doubled allograft proximally and distally. Results: Case series of LPFLR have demonstrated significant improvements in patients’ pain, Lysholm score and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, and kinesiophobia with no instability events and normal range of motion at short-term follow-up. Discussion/Conclusion: Medial patellar instability can occur following lateral retinacular release and patients experiencing instability despite nonoperative treatment are likely to benefit from a soft tissue–based LPFLR. Although other nongraft-based techniques may confer similar outcomes, the authors find it more reliable to perform a lateral reconstruction as described.

Relationship between the Branching Patterns of the Radial Nerve and Supinator Muscle

The posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) innervates the posterior compartment muscle of the forearm and is a continuation of the deep branch of the radial nerve. The anatomic descriptions of PIN vary among different authors. This study investigated the distribution patterns of PIN and its relationships to the supinator muscle. This study investigated which nerves innervate the posterior compartment muscles of the forearm, the radial nerve, and the PIN, using 28 nonembalmed limbs. Also, the points where the muscle attaches to the bone were investigated. The measured variables in this study were measured from the most prominent point of the lateral epicondyle of the humerus (LEH) to the most distal point of the radius styloid process. For each specimen, the distance between the above two points was assumed to be 100%. The measurement variables were the attachment area of the supinator and branching points from the radial nerve. The attachment points of the supinator to the radius and ulna were 47.9 % ± 3.6 % and 31.5 % ± 5.2 % , respectively, from the LEH. In 67.9% of the specimens, the brachioradialis and extensor carpi radialis longus (ECRL) were innervated by the radial nerve before superficial nerve branching, and the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) innervated the deep branch of the radial nerve. In 21.4% of the limbs, the nerve innervating the ECRB branched at the same point as the superficial branch of the radial nerve, whereas it branched from the radial nerve in 7.1% of the limbs. In 3.6% of the limbs, the deep branch of the radial nerve branched to innervate the ECRL. PIN was identified as a large branch without divisions in 10.7% and as a deep branch innervating the extensor digitorum in 14.3% of the limbs. The anatomic findings of this study would aid in the diagnosis of PIN syndromes.

Efficacy of wrist manipulation in the management of lateral epicondylitis

Background: Lateral epicondylitis is the most common clinical condition characterized by pain generally localized around the lateral epicondyle but sometimes radiating distally to the forearm. Objectives: The study's primary objective was to find out the efficacy of multiple therapeutic interventions consisting of wrist manipulation, ultrasound therapy, and stretching exercise on lateral epicondylitis patients. Subjects and methods: A pre-test, post-test experimental study design was used. A criterion-based simple random sampling was used to recruit patients (N=30) diagnosed with lateral epicondylitis, and they were randomized into two treatment groups. The experimental group-1 was exposed to ultrasound therapy and stretching exercises, whereas those assigned to experimental group-II were given ultrasound therapy, stretching exercise, and wrist manipulation for the period of 2 weeks. The efficacy of treatment was measured through visual analogue scale (VAS), manual hand dynamometer, and DASH Scale. Both paired and unpaired ‘t’ test was employed to study the treatment effectiveness. A p-value <0.05 was considered ‘significant’. Result: The group, which was exposed to the treatment combinations of wrist manipulation, ultrasound therapy, and stretching exercise showed a better reduction in pain intensity (mean difference 1.4) & self-reported upper extremity disability score (mean difference 8.06) and a notable improvement in grip strength (mean difference 4.73) than the other group, that was exposed to the treatment combinations of ultrasound therapy and stretching exercise at 0.05 levels of significance. Conclusion: There is a significant reduction in pain intensity, improvement in pain-free grip strength, and the overall function of the arm following the application of 2 weeks of wrist manipulation technique along with conventional treatment in Lateral Epicondylitis patients. Clinical Implications: Manipulation of the wrist is found to produce a significant effect when combined with conventional methods like ultrasound stretching and strengthening to manage lateral epicondylitis patients. KEY WORDS: Lateral epicondylitis, Ultrasound, Passive stretching, Wrist manipulation.