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The biceps-labrum complex is prone to acute lesions and degenerative changes due to its anatomical structure and the high load it has to endure. Pathological changes of these structures are common pain generators and can significantly impair shoulder function. Anatomically, the biceps-labrum complex can be divided into three zones: inside, junction and bicipital tunnel.Despite the focused physical examination and advancements in imaging techniques, the exact localization of pathologies remains challenging. Arthroscopy can be used to accurately diagnose inside and junctional pathologies but extra-articular changes in the region of the bicipital tunnel can only be partially visualized.In cases of unsuccessful conservative treatment and correct indications, a high level of patient satisfaction can be surgically achieved. In young patients an anatomical reconstruction of inside lesions or tenodesis of the long head of the biceps tendon is performed; however, even tenotomy is a valuable option and can achieve equally satisfactory results. Unaddressed pathological changes of the bicipital tunnel can lead to persistence of pain. In clinical procedures performing tenodesis, both the different techniques and the implants used have been found to show similar results. This article describes the anatomical principles, pathological changes, the focused clinical instrumental diagnostics and discusses the different treatment philosophies as well as the outcome according to the recent literature.HINTERGRUND: Der Bizeps-Labrum-Komplex ist aufgrund der anatomischen Gegebenheiten und der hohen Belastung anfällig für akute Läsionen und degenerative Veränderungen. Eine pathologische Veränderung dieser Strukturen stellt einen üblichen Schmerzgenerator am Schultergelenk dar und kann die Funktion signifikant reduzieren. Anatomisch kann der Bizeps-Labrum-Komplex in 3 Zonen eingeteilt werden: Ursprungsbereich, intraartikulärer Verlauf und Bereich im Bizepssehnentunnel.Trotz der fokussierten körperlichen Untersuchung und des Fortschritts der bildgebenden Verfahren verbleibt die exakte Lokalisierung der Pathologie eine Herausforderung. Durch eine Arthroskopie lassen sich v. a. Pathologien im Bereich des Ursprungs und im intraartikulären Verlauf gut diagnostizieren, jedoch nur partiell extraartikuläre Pathologien im Bereich des Bizepssehnentunnels.Bei Versagen der konservativen Therapie kann bei korrekter Indikationsstellung operativ eine hohe Patientenzufriedenheit erreicht werden. Während beim jungen aktiven Patienten rekonstruktive Verfahren und die Tenodese der langen Bizepssehne im Vordergrund stehen, lassen sich aber auch durch die Tenotomie hochgradig zufriedenstellende Ergebnisse erreichen. Nichtadressierte pathologische Veränderungen im Bereich des Bizepssehnentunnels können zu einer Schmerzpersistenz führen. In der klinischen Anwendung zur Durchführung der Tenodese zeigen sich sowohl die unterschiedlichen Techniken als auch die verwendeten Implantate als gleichwertig.Dieser Beitrag beschreibt die anatomischen Grundlagen, pathologische Veränderungen, die fokussierte klinisch-apparative Diagnostik und diskutiert die unterschiedlichen Behandlungsphilosophien und deren Ergebnisse anhand aktueller Literatur.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is routinely used for the diagnostic assessment of diseases of the shoulder joint. Depending on the clinical presentation native imaging, intravenous (IV) or intra-articular injection of contrast medium can be performed (MR arthrography). Advances in imaging technology nowadays enable early detection of characteristic changes in the clinical picture of frozen shoulder. These changes typically include thickening of the coracohumeral ligament, the axillary pouch and the capsule at the rotator interval. Furthermore, obliteration of the subcoracoidal fat pad can also be observed. The MRI examinations also show a hyperintensity in the T2-weighted imaging and a contrast enhancement of the joint capsule. The alterations can show a temporal correlation with the clinical symptoms of the patient.

The PROFHER study is a multicenter randomized controlled trial of 250 out of 1250 patients assessed for eligibility with dislocated proximal humeral fractures with involvement of the surgical neck. These patients were randomized either for surgery or conservative treatment. Patients with comorbidities that precluded surgery, lack of mental capacity, luxation fractures or clear indications for surgery from the authors' perspective were excluded. To evaluate the outcome, standardized self-assessment methods were used (patient reported outcome [PRO]), including the Oxford shoulder score (OSS). The results showed no differences in the primary and secondary self-assessment outcome scores after both 2 and 5 years. Although no significant differences could be detected between both groups, no clear statement could be deduced from the PROFHER study with respect to which patients would benefit from an operative treatment. Nevertheless, the PROFHER study provides a valuable and important addition to the literature on this heavily debated topic. The purpose of this review is to critically evaluate the PROFHER study within the existing literature regarding inclusion of patients, fracture treatment and evaluation of the results.

The torsion of the humerus describes the physiological rotation of the humerus around its longitudinal axis. Various clinical and radiological methods for measurement have been described. The computed tomography method is currently the gold standard. The angle between the humeral head axis and the transepicondylar axis is measured. This angle is called retroversion. Values of retroversion vary between 10° and 40°. For the treatment of many humeral pathologies, a precise reconstruction of the anatomical retroversion is required. The retroversion of the humerus has to be considered in shoulder arthroplasty, in fracture situations and also in planning correction of posttraumatic deformities. If an orientation to the original anatomical landmarks of the humerus is no longer possible, an orientation to the contralateral side is recommended.

The use of reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) has increased dramatically over the last two decades, with many surgeons now indicating RSA for the acute management of displaced proximal humerus fractures (PHF) in the elderly. RSA relies on adequate deltoid muscle function to obtain a good outcome, yet no literature to date exists which discusses preoperative assessment of deltoid structure prior to RSA. The purpose of this study was to assess for preoperative fatty deltoid-degeneration in patients with displaced PHF.We reviewed the axial CT scans of 100 consecutive patients with a displaced PHF. Fatty degeneration within each of the three deltoid-heads was graded at three levels, according to Goutallier and colleagues. Fractures were classified according to Neer.Seventy-nine percent of the patients were female, 75% showed 3 or 4 parts fractures. The average cross-sectional area of the posterior deltoid was greatest-representing 37%, 40% and 42% of total area at each level, respectively. Severe fatty degeneration (Stages 3 and 4) was observed in the posterior deltoid only (26%). Absence of fatty degeneration (Stage 0) was observed in25% of cases. The Inter-Observer-Reliability for the continuous variables proved to be high.Preoperative deltoid fatty degeneration is common in displaced PHF in the elderly. Because CT is commonly obtained to assess fracture morphology and for preoperative planning purposes, it is an ideal tool to assess the deltoid additionally. Future studies are warranted to determine whether preoperative fatty infiltration of the deltoid correlates with mid and long term functional outcomes when RSA is used acutely to manage a PHF.Level IV-consecutive case series.

In contrast to shoulder dislocations in younger patients, anterior shoulder dislocation in the elderly is often associated with concomitant injuries to the rotator cuff and fractures. There is also frequent involvement of the brachial plexus or peripheral nerves. After closed reduction and a short period of immobilization, physiotherapy should be performed to restore mobility and strength. The evaluation of the rotator cuff is essential for further treatment decisions. The majority of patients are classically treated conservatively. Elderly patients with accompanying rotator cuff lesions and failed conservative therapy can benefit from a surgical intervention. Reconstructive interventions of the rotator cuff should be principally considered; however, some individuals may benefit from a reverse prosthesis in this elderly subgroup of patients. The challenge for the treating surgeon is to exactly define the structural injury of the shoulder (which may include pre-existing lesions) and to select the optimal treatment option.

According to the future demographic trends the incidence of proximal humeral fractures and subsequent posttraumatic malunions and nonunions of the proximal humerus are expected to substantially increase.This article reviews the indications, techniques and outcomes of corrective osteotomy for the treatment of posttraumatic nounions and malunions of the proximal humerus.A selective literature search was performed and personal surgical experiences are reported.Malunions of the proximal humerus can occur after both surgical and conservative management of fractures. Due to the complex anatomy of the proximal humerus, malunions have to be systematically assessed regarding epiphyseal and metaphyseal malpositioning. Furthermore, the objective anatomical disorder has to be completely correlated with the subjective patient complaints. The associated soft tissue structures, such as the glenohumeral joint capsule and ligaments, long head of the biceps tendon, rotator cuff and muscles inserting in the metaphysis, can independently cause discomfort to the patient and need to be meticulously identified as such.A variety of corrective surgical strategies are available, which are indicated depending on the location and extent of the malunion. The depicted single-cut osteotomy technique represents an elegant therapeutic option for multidimensional deformities of the proximal humerus. Nonunions of the proximal humerus can usually be successfully managed with autologous cancellous bone grafting and locking plate osteosynthesis.

The management of glenohumeral osteoarthritis in younger patients with high activity levels remains a challenge to orthopedic surgeons. The clinical results of joint replacement surgery are commonly unsatisfactory in this particular cohort with the associated problem of limited longevity of the implant.This paper reviews the indications, techniques and outcomes of joint-preserving arthroscopic surgery for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the shoulder.A selective literature search was performed and personal surgical experiences are reported.Besides significant pain reduction, improved range of motion and increased patient satisfaction, arthroscopic surgery can delay the need for total shoulder arthroplasty. A comprehensive approach that addresses all concomitant pathologies of the shoulder joint is of particular importance. Recent studies have shown that a glenohumeral joint space of less than 2 mm predicts significantly poorer results with arthroscopic therapy.Arthroscopic procedures are a good option to treat young, active patients with osteoarthritis of the shoulder. Patient selection and setting a consensus for appropriate preoperative expectations are of particular relevance.

The incidence of extravasation of contrast medium is reported in the literature to be between 0.2 % and 0.9 %. A rare consequence of this could be compartment syndrome of the affected limb which requires immediate treatment.We report the case of a patient who developed acute compartment syndrome of the forearm after intravenous injection of radiographic contrast medium in a radiovolar vein during a computed tomography (CT) scan for multiple trauma. The clinical symptoms with pain, loss of range of motion and sensitivity functions, measurement of compartment pressure and radiological images confirmed the diagnosis. After emergency dermatofasciotomy of the forearm the full range of motion and sensitivity functions could be restored.

Fractures of the lateral clavicle and the acromion are uncommon and represent a separate entity. Fractures of the lateral clavicle demonstrate a high rate of problems, such as non-union, malunion and functional impairment when treated nonoperatively. The aim of any treatment option is full restoration of shoulder function by achieving fracture healing without significant malpositioning. Unstable fracture patterns have to be identified and should be fixed using an appropriate technique, which include plating, K-wire fixation and arthroscopic techniques which bring the dislocated fragments into contact. Dislocated fractures of the acromion can usually be treated by plating.

We present a literature review about implant removal after operative extremity and spine fracture treatment. The indication for implant removal procedures has become less frequent in recent years, but is still more common in Europe than for example in North America. The time required to perform a implant removal can easily exceed the planned amount. Implant removal can result in significant complications like soft tissue damage, fractures, infections, and other problems. Not only because of these problems, the decision on whether or not to remove the implant should be made with great care. Therefore good communication with the patient and thorough information about risks and benefits are essential.

Press-fit fixation of a tendon graft has been advocated in order to achieve tendon to bone healing.Fixation of a tendon graft with a porous bone scaffold limits bone tunnel enlargement compared with a biodegradable interference screw fixation.Between 2005 and 2006, 20 patients (17 men, 3 women) were enrolled in this study for primary reconstruction of the ACL. Patients were randomized to either obtain graft fixation in the tibial tunnel by means of an interference screw (I) or a press-fit fixation with a porous bone cylinder (P). Three months after surgery, a CT scan of the knee was performed and tunnel enlargement was analysed in the coronal and sagittal planes for the proximal, middle and distal thirds of the tunnel. After 6 months, 1 and 2 years, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Tegner and Lysholm scores of both groups were compared.The bone tunnel enlargement was 106.9±10.9% for group P and 121.9±9.0% for group I (P0.02) in the AP plane and 102.8±15.2% vs 121.5±10.1% in the coronal plane (P0.01). IKDC, Tegner, and Lysholm scores improved in both groups from pre- to postoperative assessment without significant differences between the two groups. There was a trend to higher knee stability in group P after 3 months (0.6±1.4 mm vs 1.81±.5 mm, P=0.08).Both interference screw and a press-fit fixation lead to a high number of good or very good outcomes after ACL reconstruction. Tibial press-fit fixation decreases the amount of proximal bone tunnel enlargement. Press-fit fixation decreases the amount of proximal bone tunnel enlargement and improves bone to tendon contact.

Melorheostosis is a rare, benign, and sporadically occurring osteosclerosis of unknown cause. The onset of the disease is usually in early adulthood. Melorheostosis affects both genders, develops progressively, and is usually limited to one side of the human body. The sclerosis originates predominantly from the cortices of the long bones of the lower limbs and rarely the upper limbs. Frequently, the sclerosis involves the soft tissue surrounding the affected bones which may cause limitations in the range of motion, contractures, deformities, and pain. Melorheostosis is usually diagnosed by radiograms. Pain relief and restoration of the full range of motion are the primary goals of the therapeutic approach. A good outcome cannot always be achieved and a recurrence of the disease happens very often.

Analysis of the results and presentation of a treatment concept of a helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS) in prehospital acute care of entrapped motorists.Consecutive patient data collection from primary rescue missions of a helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS) from the years 2000-2004. Evaluation based on data collected regarding emergency medical care, rescue techniques, and tactical rescue approach.A total of 359 cases of entrapped motorists were documented: 237 patients were male, 122 were female, and the average age was 37 (range: 2-82 years). The motor vehicle accidents (MVA) occurred in 21% of the cases on the highway, in 29% on a main road, in 43% on a rural road, and in 7% in city/urban areas. Concerning the vehicle types, 86% were automobiles, 5% vans, and 9% trucks. Drivers accounted for 86% of the patients, front seat passengers for 10.1%, and back seat passengers for 3.9%. The average length of motorist entrapment amounted to 17 min with an average on-scene time of 27 min for the HEMS. The total rescue time averaged 56 min. A Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score between 3 and 8 was recorded in 33.7% of the patients; in 24% of the cases the shock index was1; a respiratory rate of10/min or20/min was documented in 25.2% of the patients. An NACA score between I and III was recorded in 34.2% of the cases, NACA IV in 18.9%, and NACA/=V in 46.8%; 11.9% of the patients died before hospital admission.For both the emergency control center personnel and the emergency medical technicians (EMT), a case of motorist entrapment must be considered as a trigger mechanism of injury, activating a sophisticated and time-sensitive prehospital acute care and transportation service. In the German emergency medical service this involves primarily the HEMS. Even in cases of potentially critically injured entrapped motorists, the prehospital adherence to"the golden hour of shock" is made possible, despite the resulting higher personnel and equipment expenses.

A modified surgical technique using suspension arthroplasty against primary osteoarthritis of the thumb carpometacarpal joint was analysed.This retrospective analysis focused on 41 patients who underwent suspension arthroplasties with a modified technique between 1997-2005. With the help of this technique, a long-range preparation of the flexor carpi radialis tendon can be avoided. Only the ca. 3 cm of tendon which is visible in the site was split in half and cut off proximally. This half tendon was provided with a suture in baseball-stitch technique. It was then press-fit fixed with a suture in a sloping drill hole of the MC 1 basis. The patients required a cast for only 3 weeks postoperatively. Afterwards, they received an orthesis for 2-3 weeks with increasing mobilisation. The postoperative course was clinically and radiologically analysed. The results were analysed at 3 months and 1-7 years after surgery. All patients were operated as outpatients.Of the 41 patients, 40 had a high subjective satisfaction. A total of 45 operations showed excellent results. There were no poor results. Only one patient would not undergo the surgery again. The radiological distance between metacarpal 1 and the distal scaphoid lay between 4 mm and 9 mm after 3 months and 1-7 years.The described modification of suspension arthroplasty with a short-range mobilisation of the flexor carpi radialis tendon reduced the morbidity of preparation and led to stable suspension. Thus, immobilisation over 3 weeks was not necessary. Patients obtained good, early functional results.

Vascular compression of the Vth cranial nerve is the leading cause of trigeminal neuralgia. Microvascular decompression has been promoted by Jannetta since 1970. We used the minimally invasive retrosigmoid approach, with the complementary help of endoscopic procedure.MRI results, surgical findings and pain relief were studied after endoscopic assisted microvascular decompression.Between 1991 and 2000, 98 surgeries were performed on 79 patients unresponsive to medical treatment, after an average of 6 years from the onset of the disorder. The mean follow-up period after operation was 28 months.MRI predicted neurovascular conflict with sensitivity of 93.6% and specificity of 100%. Pain relief after surgery was complete in 69% of the cases, partial in 21%. Surgery was a failure in 6% of the cases and 4% of patients were lost. Complications were limited to 10% of CSF disorders but only 1% (1 patient) needed a surgical revision.Microvascular decompression, performed through a key-hole approach, without cerebellum retraction and with endoscopic assisted surgery, yields a low risk of morbidity, even in elderly patients, and could be considered acceptable causal treatment of trigeminal neuralgia.

Bordetella pertussis produces a calmodulin-activated adenylate cyclase (AC) that exists in several forms. Only one form of AC, of apparent 200 kDa, is a toxin that penetrates eukaryotic cells and generates uncontrolled levels of intracellular cAMP. Recombination studies in transposon Tn5-insertion mutants of B. pertussis and amino acid sequence homology with alpha-hemolysin of Escherichia coli suggested that AC toxin may also have a hemolytic activity. Here, we demonstrate that only the toxic form of B. pertussis AC possesses hemolytic activity. Immunoblotting of membranes from sheep erythrocytes throughout the process of cell lysis detects the presence and accumulation of only the 200-kDa form of B. pertussis AC. cAMP generation induced by AC toxin in sheep erythrocytes is immediate whereas appearance of hemolysis is delayed by about 1 h and requires a higher level of AC toxin activity. Addition of exogenous calmodulin to sheep erythrocyte incubation medium potentiates the hemolytic activity of AC toxin but blocks cAMP generation. Extracellular Ca2+ at mM concentrations is absolutely required for cAMP generation but not for hemolysis. However, binding of AC toxin to sheep erythrocytes in the absence of exogenous Ca2+ followed by reincubation of cells in a toxin-free buffer containing Ca2+ leads to an immediate rise in intracellular cAMP. Human erythrocytes bind AC toxin and generate cAMP but are resistant to lysis. These results show that binding of AC toxin to erythrocytes can cause both cAMP generation and hemolysis or only one of these depending on conditions applied and cell type used.