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Abstract Objective The objective of the present study is to evaluate the impact evaluate the impact of an institutional protocol on a tertiary hospital for the prevention of venous thromboembolism in 2005 patients submitted to primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Methods Data from medical records of patients submitted TKA before (n= 1,115) and after (n= 890) the implementation of the institutional protocol, totaling 2,005 patients, were retrospectively reported. Demographics, comorbidities, and outcomes were analyzed. Results There was no significant change in the cases of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) (1.6% versus 2.4%; p= 0.211). There was an increase in cases of pulmonary embolism (PE) (0.2% versus 0.8% p= 0.049). Conclusion Despite the implementation of the prevention protocol, no reduction in the studied events was observed. The small global incidence makes further studies with larger series necessary to confirm or rule out these findings.

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the contamination rate of hamstring tendon autografts by comparing two different techniques, and to verify whether intraoperative contamination is associated with the development of clinical infection in patients submitted to reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Methods: A total of 110 hamstring tendon autograft ACL reconstructions were performed and divided into two groups: 1-hamstring tendon retraction technique; and 2 - technique maintaining the tibial insertion of the hamstring tendon. During the preparation, two graft fragments were sent for culturing; the harvesting time, the preparation time, and the total surgery time were measured. Twenty-four hours after the surgery, the C-reactive protein was assayed. The clinical outpatient follow-up was performed up to 180 days postoperatively. Results: Although there were two postoperative infections, there was no graft contamination or difference between the groups in relation to the graft preparation time and to the 24-hour postoperative C-reactive protein assessment. The classic technique presented a longer graft harvesting time (p = 0.038), and there was no statistical difference between the 2 groups regarding the degree of contamination and consequent clinical infection, although 2 patients in group 2 presented with infection, with negative perioperative cultures. Conclusion: Based on the results obtained, there was no association between graft contamination and the time or technique of its preparation. In addition, there was also no association between intraoperative contamination and the development of clinical infection, nor was there any sign of an association between the early alteration of Creactive protein and the onset of infection.

Most patellar dislocations are associated with disruption of the proximal medial patellar restraints (PMPRs). The PMPRs comprise the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) and medial quadriceps tendon–femoral ligament (MQTFL). Although isolated MPFL reconstruction is the most frequently performed procedure for the surgical management of recurrent dislocation, recent studies have shown that the MQTFL has a synergistic role with the MPFL in resisting lateral patellar displacement close to full extension. It has therefore been suggested that surgical techniques that gain the benefits of both proximal and distal PMPR biomechanical behavior may be best. This article describes an established technique for combined MPFL and MQTFL reconstruction using semitendinosus autograft.

ABSTRACT Chronic patellar tendon rupture is a rare disabling injury that is technically difficult to repair. The true prevalence of this injury is unknown. Delayed reconstruction of chronic patellar tendon rupture has yielded suboptimal clinical and functional results. Many different surgical methods for reconstruction of chronic patellar tendon injury have been reported. In this report, we present a case with chronic patellar tendon injury that was addressed using a technique that had not previously been described in the literature, through combining procedures that had been described separately. The reconstruction method presented in this article has the advantages of being easy and reproducible, without a requirement of allografts.

ABSTRACT The causal relationship between chronic use of bisphosphonates and occurrences of atypical femoral fractures has not yet been established. Nonetheless, it is known that their chronic use is more related to fractures with a pattern differing from that of classical osteoporotic fractures. Atypical fractures are still rare events and the benefit from using bisphosphonates remains greater for prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. There are few studies guiding the diagnosis and management of these fractures, thus making it difficult to achieve better results. In this report, we present the case of an elderly patient with an atypical femoral fracture that was managed in accordance with guidance from the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

Partial tears of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are common and represent 10-27% of the total. The main reasons for attending to cases of non-torn bundles are biomechanical, vascular and proprioceptive. Continued presence of the bundle also serves as protection during the healing process. There is controversy regarding the definition of these injuries, which is based on anatomy, clinical examination, translation measurements, imaging examinations and arthroscopy. The way in which it is treated will depend on the existing laxity and instability. Conservative treatment is optional for cases without instability, with a focus on motor rehabilitation. Surgical treatment is a challenge, since it requires correct positioning of the bone tunnels and conservation of the remnants of the torn bundle. The pivot shift test under anesthesia, the magnetic resonance findings, the previous level and type of sports activity and the arthroscopic appearance and mechanical properties of the remnants will aid the orthopedist in the decision-making process between conservative treatment, surgical treatment with strengthening of the native ACL (selective reconstruction) and classical (anatomical) reconstruction.

Despite technologic advances in the surgical techniques for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, some patients continue to have violation of the femoral cortex, commonly referred to as wall blowout. These posterior or lateral cortical breaches lead to loss of graft containment and subsequent difficulty with graft fixation. If this intraoperative error is not promptly recognized and treated, the graft is at an increased risk of premature failure. Thus, in these situations, recognizing the complication and knowing strategies for alternative or salvage fixation are of importance. This article details a simple tunnel view test realized during ACL reconstruction that would enable determining the integrity and depth of the femoral tunnel. The femoral tunnel view test is a technically straightforward and quick test able to obtain a superior view of patient anatomy to facilitate accurate tunnel integrity evaluation during ACL reconstruction.

OBJETIVO: Apresentar nova técnica de reconstrução do ligamento patelofemoral medial (LPFM) em pacientes com luxação recidivante da patela e avaliar seus resultados clínicos. MÉTODOS: Entre jan/2007 e jan/2008, 23 pacientes foram submetidos à reconstrução do LPFM com enxerto livre de tendão semitendíneo. Após acompanhamento mínimo de 24 meses, 22 pacientes foram avaliados pelos protocolos clínicos de Kujala e de Lysholm. RESULTADOS: O seguimento médio foi de 26,2 meses. Segundo o protocolo de Lysholm, os pacientes apresentaram pontuação média de 53,72 pontos no pré-operatório e 93,36 pontos no pós-operatório (p = 0,000006). Pelo protocolo de Kujala, a pontuação média foi 59,81 pontos no préoperatório e 83,54 pontos no pós-operatório (p = 0,002173). CONCLUSÃO: A reconstrução do ligamento patelofemoral medial pela técnica proposta mostrou excelentes resultados no curto prazo, quando avaliada por protocolos clínicos.OBJECTIVE: To present a new technique for reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) in patients with recurrent patellar dislocation and to evaluate the clinical findings from this. METHODS: Between January 2007 and January 2008, 23 patients underwent reconstruction of the MPFL with a free graft from the semitendinosus tendon. After a minimum of 244 months of follow-up, 22 patients were evaluated using the Kujala and Lysholm clinical protocols. RESULTS: The mean follow up was 26.2 months. According to the Lysholm protocol, the patients had a mean score of 53.72 points preoperatively and 93.36 points postoperatively (p = 0.000006). According to the Kujala protocol, the mean score was 59.81 points preoperatively and 83.54 points postoperatively (p = 0.002173). CONCLUSION: Reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament using the proposed technique showed excellent results over the short term, when evaluated by means of clinical protocols.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar se após a artroplastia total do joelho existe correlação entre a altura da patela e a amplitude de movimento (ADM) alcançada pelo paciente após seis meses de pós-operatório. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados 45 pacientes submetidos a artroplastia total do joelho, todos com, no mínimo, 12 meses de pós-operatório, totalizando 54 joelhos. Sob fluoroscopia, todos os joelhos tiveram suas amplitudes de movimentos (ADM) máximas e mínimas registradas, bem como a altura da patela pelo índice de Blackburne e Peel. Foram avaliadas as duas correlações possíveis: relação entre altura da patela e ADM e altura da patela e a variação de ADM entre o pré e o pós-operatório. RESULTADOS: Foi observada correlação entre altura da patela e ADM no pós-operatório (p = 0,04). Não foi observada correlação entre altura da patela e variação de ADM (p = 0,182). CONCLUSÃO: No pós-operatório da artroplastia total do joelho, quanto mais baixa a patela, pior a ADM.OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether, after total knee arthroplasty, there is any correlation between patellar height and range of motion (ROM) achieved by patients six months after the operation. METHODS: Forty-five patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty were assessed at least 12 months after the operation (total of 54 knees). The maximum and minimum ROM of all the knees was recorded under fluoroscopy, along with patellar height according to the Blackburne and Peel ratio. Two possible correlations were evaluated: patellar height and ROM; and patellar height and ROM variation from before to after the operation. RESULTS: A correlation was found between patellar height and postoperative ROM (p = 0.04). There was no correlation between patellar height and ROM variation (p = 0.182). CONCLUSION: After total knee arthroplasty, the lower the patella is, the worse the ROM is.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os resultados clínicos utilizando dois diferentes protocolos, 10 anos após a cirurgia de reconstrução do LCA (Ligamento Cruzado Anterior) com o terço central do tendão do músculo quadríceps (TQ). MÉTODO: Entre novembro/1997 e abril/1998, 25 pacientes foram submetidos a 25 reconstruções do LCA com TQ pela técnica transtibial. A parte óssea do enxerto foi fixada no túnel femoral com parafuso de interferência e a parte tendinosa no túnel tibial, com parafuso em poste com arruela. Dois pacientes romperam o novo ligamento em entorses durante futebol. Seis não foram encontrados para reavaliação (24%). Foram avaliados 17 pacientes, sendo 15 homens e duas mulheres, com média de idade na cirurgia de 28,53 ± 6,64 anos. Todos foram examinados com seis meses, um ano e dez anos de cirurgia. A avaliação clínica foi realizada com a escala de Lysholm e a do o joelho, com a do Hospital for Special Surgery. RESULTADOS: As lesões foram operadas após 9,87 ± 14,42 meses do acidente. Segundo a escala de Lysholm, os resultados ao fim do primeiro ano foram de 98,71 ± 2,47 e, ao fim de dez anos, de 97,35 ± 3,12. Usando a escala do Hospital for Special Surgery, a pontuação foi de 95,07 ± 5,23 com um ano e de 94,87 ± 4,16 após 10 anos. Todos os pacientes retornaram ao trabalho nas mesmas condições. Quinze (88,24%) retornaram ao mesmo esporte, um com modificação na prática e outro mudou de esporte. Nenhum paciente se queixou dor na área doadora do enxerto após quatro semanas da cirurgia até a última avaliação. Quatro pacientes sofreram ruptura do LCA contralateral em atividades esportivas, sendo três entorses no futebol e uma durante dança. CONCLUSÃO: O enxerto do TQ é boa opção para a reconstrução do LCA, mesmo quando decorridos 10 anos do procedimento cirúrgico. Não houve dor na área doadora do enxerto a médio e longo prazo. A taxa de retorno ao esporte foi excelente e não houve alteração da articulação femoropatelar.OBJECTIVE: Assess clinical results using two different protocols, 10 years after ACL reconstruction surgery with the central third of quadriceps muscle tendon (QT). METHOD: Between November /1997 and April/1998, 25 patients were submitted to 25 ACL reconstructions with QT by transtibial technique. The bone portion of the graft was fixated on femoral tunnel with interference screw and the tendinous portion of tibial tunnel with screw with washer. Two patients injured the new when playing soccer. Six patients were not available for follow-up (24%). Seventeen patients were evaluated, 15 men and two women, with mean age at surgery time of 28.53 ± 6.64 years. All patients were examined at six months, one year, and ten years after surgery. Clinical evaluation was made by the Lysholm scale, and the knee evaluation, with the Hospital for Special Surgery scale. RESULTS: The patients had their injuries operated after 9.87 ± 14.42 months of the accident. According to Lysholm scale, the results at the end of the first year were 98.71 ± 2.47 and, after 10 years, 97.35 ± 3.12. Using the Hospital for Special Surgery scale, the mean score was 95.07 ± 5.23 in one year, and 94.87 ± 4.16 in 10 years. All patients returned to their professional activities with the same previous status. Fifteen (88.24%) patients were able to return to their sports activities, one by modifying the practice, while another one switched to another sport. No patient complained of pain on the donor area in the medium and long term. The sports return rate was excellent, and no changes were found on the femoropatellar joint.

OBJETIVO: Analisar a resistência final suportada por dois tipos de fio e pela interface âncora-fio em três diferentes implantes tipo âncora submetidos à tração contínua, com o propósito de indicar o mais apropriado para sutura de estruturas como o manguito rotador do ombro. MÉTODOS: Os testes foram feitos em três grupos: grupo 1 - parafuso âncora de titânio com fio Ethibond® #2; grupo 2 - parafuso âncora de titânio com fio Fiber Wire® #2; e grupo 3 - parafuso âncora de titânio 5,0mm Corkscrew®. RESULTADOS: No grupo 1, a carga máxima média até a soltura foi de 124,5 newtons (N), sendo a mínima de 105N e a máxima de 180N, com variação de 75N entre os dois extremos e desvio-padrão de 23,03N. No grupo 2, a carga máxima média até a soltura foi de 298N, mínima de 230N, máxima de 375N, com variação de 145N e desvio-padrão de 44,73N. No grupo 3, foi obtida a maior carga máxima média, sendo esta de 272N, a mínima de 205N e a máxima de 340N, com variação de 135N. A análise estatística demonstrou diferença significativa entre as médias de cargas resistidas entre os grupos 1 x 2 e 1 x 3 (p < 0,001). CONCLUSÃO: Observou-se semelhança na resistência final obtida com o fio Fiber Wire® independentemente da âncora usada. O fio Ethibond #2 apresentou resistência inferior, menor que a desejada para a sutura de estruturas como do manguito rotador do ombro.OBJECTIVE: To analyze the final strength withstood by two types of suture threads and by the anchor-suture interface in three different anchor implants submitted to continuous traction for the purpose of choosing the most appropriate to suture structures such as the shoulder rotator cuff. METHOD: Tests were performed in three groups: Group 1 - titanium anchor screw with Ethibond® #2 suture, Group 2 - titanium anchor screw with Fiber Wire® #2 suture, and Group 3 - Corkscrew® 5.0 mm anchor screw. RESULTS: In Group 1, mean maximum load till loosening was 124.5 124,5 Newtons (N), the minimum load was 105 N, and the maximum load was 180 N, with a range of 75 N between the two extremes, and standard deviation of 23.03 N. In Group 2, the mean maximum load till loosening was 298 N, the minimum load was 230 N, the maximum load was 375 N, with a range of 145 N, and standard deviation of 44.73 N. In Group 3, the highest mean maximum load was measured, of 272 N, the minimum load was 205 N, and the maximum load of 340 N, with a range of 135 N. Statistical analysis showed a significant difference between the mean loads withstood between groups 1 and 2, and between groups 1 and 3, (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Final strength was similar with Fiber Wire® suture irrespective of the anchor used. Ethibond #2 suture showed lower strength, lower than that desired to suture structures such as the shoulder rotator cuff.

OBJETIVO: Os autores avaliaram in vitro o poder de degermação do glutaraldeído a 2,2% por 30 minutos, nas lâminas de shaver de 3,2mm de diâmetro, usadas em videoartroscopias. MÉTODOS: Foram utilizadas 40 lâminas, de 3,2mm, subdivididas em quatro grupos. Grupo I: 10 lâminas esterilizadas em óxido de etileno foram colocadas de forma estéril no meio de cultura Brain-heart infusion (BHI). Grupo II: 10 lâminas esterilizadas em óxido de etileno foram deliberadamente contaminadas pelas bactérias Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus faecalis e Mycobacterium fortuitum e posteriormente colocadas no meio de cultura BHI. Grupo III: 10 lâminas esterilizadas em óxido de etileno foram contaminadas pelas mesmas bactérias e posteriormente imersas por 30 minutos em glutaraldeído e, após limpeza com soro fisiológico, colocadas no meio de cultura. Grupo IV: 10 lâminas esterilizadas em óxido de etileno foram utilizadas em artroscopias, posteriormente lavadas e imersas em glutaraldeído, também colocadas em meio de cultura. Nos meios onde houve crescimento bacteriano, este foi verificado em 72 horas de incubação, sendo esse tempo prolongado para sete dias para recuperação da micobactéria. RESULTADOS: Não houve crescimento de germes nos meios de cultura dos grupos I, III e IV, mas houve crescimento em todas as amostras do grupo II. CONCLUSÃO: A solução de glutaraldeído a 2,2%, dentro do prazo de validade, utilizada por 30 minutos, mostrou-se eficaz, in vitro, na degermação de lâminas de shaver de 3,2mm de diâmetro, mesmo quando deliberadamente contaminadas por micobactéria de crescimento rápido.OBJECTIVE: The authors made an in vitro assessment of the degermation power of 2.2% glutaraldehyde for 30 minutes in 3.2 mm diameter shaver blades used in videoarthroscopy. METHODS: 40 3.2 mm blades were used after being subdivided into four groups: Group I - 10 blades sterilized with ethylene oxide were placed in sterile state in a Brain-heart infusion (BHI) culture medium; Group II - ten blades sterilized with ethylene oxide were deliberately contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus faecalis, and Mycobacterium fortuitum and later placed in a BHI culture medium; Group III - 10 blades sterilized with ethylene oxide were contaminated by the same bacteria and later immersed in glutaraldehyde for 30 minutes, and after they were cleaned with saline solution, they were placed in the culture medium; Group IV - 10 blades sterilized with ethylene oxide were used in arthroscopic procedures , then washed an immersed in glutaraldehyde, and also placed in the culture medium. In the media were bacterial growth did occur, such growth was seen within 72 hours of incubation, such period being extended to seven days to retrieve mycobacteria. RESULTS: There was no germ growth in the culture media of Groups I, III, and IV, but bacteria grew in all samples of Group II. CONCLUSION: The 2.2% glutaraldehyde solution, within the validity period, used for 30 minutes, showed to be effective "in vitro", in the degermation of 3.2 mm Shaver blades even when they were deliberately contaminated by fast-growing mycobacteria.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a eficiência dos guias de orientação rotacional utilizados na realização da artroplastia total do joelho. Avaliar a possível correlação entre o eixo anatômico pré-operatório e a capacidade do guia em posicionar corretamente o componente. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliadas 64 artroplastias confrontando a orientação sugerida pelo guia com aquela mostrada pela linha de Whiteside. Os casos de divergência foram registrados e confrontados com o eixo anatômico pré-operatório. RESULTADO: Não houve divergências entre o alinhamento rotacional medido pelos dois métodos nos joelhos alinhados e naqueles com alinhamento em varo. Foram encontradas divergências entre o alinhamento rotacional sugerido pelo guia e aquele mostrado pela linha de Whiteside em sete dos 64 joelhos (10,93%). Em todos os pacientes com discrepância, o alinhamento pré-operatório era valgo. CONCLUSÃO: Os guias de orientação rotacional do componente femoral na artroplastia total do joelho mostraram-se coincidentes com a orientação obtida pela linha de Whiteside nos joelhos com eixo anatômico em varo e naqueles alinhados. Nos joelhos com eixo anatômico em valgo, a referência dos guias não se mostrou coincidente com aquela sugerida pela mesma linha.OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficiency of rotational wire guides used to perform total knee arthroplasty. To evaluate the possible correlation between the preoperative anatomic axis and the capacity of the wire guide to properly position the component. METHODS: 64 arthroplasties were evaluated by comparing the position suggested by the wire guide to the position shown by the Whiteside line. Discrepant cases were registered and compared to the preoperative anatomic axis. RESULT: No discrepancies were found between the rotational alignment measured by the two methods in aligned knees and knees with varus alignment. Discrepancies were found between the rotational alignment suggested by the wire guide and the alignment shown by the Whiteside line in seven of the 64 knees (10.93%). In all patients that showed discrepancy, the preoperative alignment was valgus. CONCLUSION: Rotational wire guides of the femoral component in total knee arthroplasty do coincide with the position achieved by the Whiteside line in knees whose anatomic axis is varus and in aligned knees. In valgus knees, the reference of the wire guides did not coincide with the position suggested by the said line.

OBJETIVO: Estudar a variação dos valores da temperatura cutânea (deltaT) do sítio operatório, da proteína C reativa (PCR) e da velocidade de hemossedimentação (VHS) em pacientes submetidos a artroplastia total do joelho (ATJ) primária, tentando estabelecer correlação entre suas curvas ao longo do tempo. MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: Esse estudo clínico prospectivo, avaliou 29 pacientes acompanhados por 12 semanas, sendo aferida a temperatura cutânea em ambos os joelhos e realizada dosagem sérica da PCR e VHS. RESULTADOS: Após a comparação entre as variáveis testadas (deltaT, PCR e VHS), observou-se tanto para o teste de Pearson (avaliação paramétrica), quanto para o de Spearman (avaliação não-paramétrica) que não houve correlação estatística entre elas. A variação da temperatura cutânea segue um padrão diferente do observado tanto para a PCR quanto para a VHS, não existindo correlação entre as curvas. Foi estabelecida a curva padrão das três variáveis, verificando-se redução estatisticamente significativa nos valores da PCR e da VHS entre o pré e o pós-operatório. CONCLUSÃO: Não foi observada correlação entre a temperatura cutânea e os níveis de VHS e PCR em pacientes submetidos a ATJ primária, isenta de complicações.OBJECTIVE: To study the variation of skin temperature values (deltaT) on operative site, of reactive C protein (RCP) and of hemosedimentation speed (HSS) in patients submitted to primary knee total arthroplasty (KTA), in an attempt to establish a correlation among its curves over time. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective clinical study evaluated 29 patients followed up during 12 weeks, with measurements of skin temperature in both knees and RCP and HSS serum dosages. RESULTS: After comparing the variables tested (deltaT, RCP and HSS), no statistical correlation was observed for both the Pearson’s test (parametric test) and the Spearman’s test (non-parametric test) among variables. Skin temperature variation follows a different pattern from that observed both for RCP and for HSS, with no correlation among curves. A standard curve was established for the three variables, and a statistically significant reduction was seen in RCP and HSS values from pre- to post-operative period. CONCLUSION: No correlation was observed between skin temperature and HSS and RCP levels in patients submitted to uncomplicated primary KTA.

OBJETIVO: Comparar a posteriorização do ponto de contato entre o componente femoral e o polietileno tibial à medida em que o joelho é fletido em dois tipos de artroplastia total do joelho, uma com sacrifício e outra com preservação do ligamento cruzado posterior (LCP). MÉTODOS: Foram analisados, sob fluoroscopia, 36 joelhos de 32 pacientes submetidos a artroplastia total do joelho. Analisando as imagens em perfil, foi medido o ponto de contato do fêmur com o polietileno tibial com o joelho em extensão completa e em 90 graus de flexão, mensurando-se o percentual de "rolamento" posterior do fêmur nas artroplastias em que o ligamento cruzado posterior (LCP) foi sacrificado e naquelas nas quais esse foi preservado. RESULTADOS: O percentual médio de posteriorização do fêmur foi de 13,24% nos casos em que o LCP foi sacrificado e de 5,75% nos casos em que esse foi preservado. A diferença entre essas medidas foi estatisticamente significativa, com p = 0,026615. CONCLUSÃO: Na artroplastia total do joelho, sacrificar o LCP aumenta a translação posterior do ponto de contato entre o fêmur e a tíbia à medida em que o joelho é flexionado até 90 graus.OBJECTIVE: To compare the rollback of the contact point between the femoral component and the tibial polyethylene as the knee is flexed, in two types of total knee arthroplasty: one that sacrifices and the other that preserves the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). METHODS: Under fluoroscopy, 36 knees from 32 patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty were evaluated. Using lateral images, the contact points between the femur and the tibial polyethylene with the knee in complete extension and at 90° of flexion were measured, thereby measuring the percentage rollback of the femur in arthroplasties in which the PCL was sacrificed and in those in which it was preserved. RESULTS: The mean percentage rollback of the femur was 13.24% in the cases in which the PCL was sacrificed and 5.75% in the cases in which it was preserved. The difference between these measurements was statistically significant (p = 0.026615). CONCLUSION: In total knee arthroplasty, sacrificing the PCL increased the rollback of the contact point between the femur and tibia as the knee was flexed up to 90°.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a prevalência e o tipo de disestesia em torno da incisão utilizada para obtenção desse tendão na cirurgia de reconstrução do LCA. MÉTODOS: De uma população de 1.368 reconstruções do LCA com o terço central do tendão patelar, foram avaliados, por entrevista telefônica, 102 pacientes, totalizando 111 joelhos. RESULTADOS: O seguimento médio foi de 52 meses, variando entre 12 e 88 meses. A idade dos pacientes variou entre 16 e 58 anos, com média de 34,7 anos. Em 66 joelhos (59,46%), houve algum grau de disestesia peri-incisional. Em 40,54% dos joelhos, essa condição não foi encontrada. Em todos os casos de disestesia, o tipo encontrado foi o tipo II de Highet. CONCLUSÃO: A disestesia peri-incisional após a reconstrução do LCA com terço central do tendão patelar é muito prevalente, acometendo mais da metade dos casos nessa série.OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the prevalence and type of dysesthesia around the incision used to obtain the patellar tendon for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery. METHODS: Out of a population of 1368 ACL reconstructions using the central third of the patellar tendon, 102 patients (111 knees) were evaluated by means of telephone interview. RESULTS: The mean follow-up was 52 months (ranging from 12 to 88 months). The patients' ages ranged from 16 to 58 years (mean: 34.7 years). There was some degree of peri-incisional dysesthesia in 66 knees (59.46%). In 40.54% of the knees, this condition was not found. In all the cases of dysesthesia, the type encountered was Highet's type II. CONCLUSION: Peri-incisional dysesthesia following ACL reconstruction using the central third of the patellar tendon is highly prevalent. It affected more than half of the cases in this series.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar se com o uso da artrobomba (equipo de irrigação com sensor de pressão), o uso do torniquete pneumático poderia interferir no tempo cirúrgico, na recuperação de movimentos e no volume articular em pacientes submetidos à videoartroscopia do joelho para meniscectomia parcial. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados em cinco diferentes centros e com sete diferentes cirurgiões, 103 pacientes divididos de forma aleatória em dois grupos quanto à utilização ou não do torniquete pneumático. As variáveis foram avaliadas durante a cirurgia e com sete dias de pós-operatório. RESULTADOS: Não se encontrou diferença estatisticamente significativa entre nenhuma das variáveis estudadas. CONCLUSÃO: Não existem razões que justifiquem ou desabonem o uso do torniquete nessa situação específica.OBJECTIVE: To evaluate if by using a pressure sensitive pump, tourniquet use could affect surgical time, range of motion recovery, and joint volume in patients who underwent knee arthroscopy for medial partial meniscectomy. METHODS: Two groups of 103 patients operated in five different centers by seven different surgeons were evaluated after a random selection to use or not use a pneumatic tourniquet. The variables were evaluated during surgery and seven days post-operation. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences were found among any of the variables studied. CONCLUSION: There is no reason to justify or disapprove tourniquet use in this specific situation.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a amplitude de movimentos (ADM) do joelho após seis meses de pós-operatório de artroplastia total, comparando-a com o seu valor pré-operatório. MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: Foi analisada a amplitude de movimento de 80 artroplastias, com acompanhamento pós-operatório médio de 21,9 meses. RESULTADO: Não houve diferença significativa entre as médias pré e pós-operatória, de extensão (p=0,09) e flexão (p=0,47). Subdividindo os pacientes em dois grupos, naqueles com flexão pré-operatória menor ou igual a 90° (n=17) observou-se aumento significativo da flexão (p=0,000037). Naqueles com flexão pré-operatória maior ou igual a 120° (n=31) ocorreu diminuição significativa da flexão (p=0,000068). Quatro pacientes foram submetidos à manipulação, em média com 2,1 meses de pós-operatório. A média de flexão antes da manipulação e após seis meses dessa foi significativamente diferente (p=0,0068). Já as médias de flexão pré-operatória e após seis meses de pós-operatório foram semelhantes (p=0,28). CONCLUSÃO: A flexão pré-operatória influencia de forma significativa a flexão após artroplastia total do joelho. Sua medida fornece ao cirurgião bom parâmetro para prevê-la.OBJECTIVE: To evaluate knee range of motion (ROM) after at least six months postoperatively in total knee arthroplasty, by comparing it to baseline value. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ranges of motion of eighty arthroplasties were analyzed within an average follow-up of 21.9 months. RESULTS: No significant differences between pre- and postoperative averages for extension (p=0.09) and flexion (p=0.47) were found. By dividing the patients into two groups, a significant flexion improvement was seen in those with pre-op flexion equal or smaller than 90º (n=17) (p=0.000037). In the other group, a significant decrease in flexion was seen in those with pre-op flexion equal or greater than 120º (n=31) (p=0.000068). Four patients have been submitted to knee manipulations within an average of 2.1 months postoperatively. The mean flexion rate before manipulation and after six months was significantly different (p=0.0068). The mean pre-op flexion and after six months postoperatively was similar (p=0.28). CONCLUSION: Preoperative flexion significantly influences the post-op flexion in total knee arthroplasty. Its measurement provides the surgeon with a good parameter for previewing this.

ABSTRACT Pigmented villonodular synovitis is a rare proliferative condition of the synovium. Although the condition can present in any joint, the knee is the most commonly affected site. Despite being a benign condition, pigmented villonodular synovitis is often aggressive, with marked extra-articular extension in some cases. Monoarticular involvement occurs in two forms: localized and diffuse. The latter is more common, with a high recurrence rate. There is no standard method of management of this lesion. Open surgery is a classical and effective method for treatment. Arthroscopic synovectomy, however, has gained popularity, and has several advantages over the open technique particularly in exclusively articular cases. The combined approach is suggested in cases with extra-articular involvement. Synovectomy through any approach may prevent secondary osteoarthritis and subsequent joint arthroplasty. Internal irradiation or external beam radiation as an adjuvant treatment to surgical synovectomy appears to decrease the rate of local recurrence in diffuse cases. The authors observed a great heterogeneity in reporting of functional results, and specific conclusions should not be drawn. Each patient should be managed in accordance with his/her particular condition.

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: To assess whether there the final range of motion (ROM) results achieved by patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with prosthesis using Medial Pivot design are predictable. METHODS: Between January and August of 2014, 155 patients with primary osteoarthritis of knee who underwent TKA using the prosthesis ADVANCE(r) Medial Pivot were prospectively assessed. All ROM measures were made and recorded before, during, and after surgery. All patients were clinically assessed preoperatively and postoperatively (15, 45 days, three months, six months, one year, and annually thereafter after surgery); their functional status was assessed using the WOMAC questionnaire. RESULTS: Significant differences (p < 0.001) were observed between the means and medians of ROM in the preoperative when compared with those during the perioperative; the perioperative values, when compared with those after six months postoperative, were also different (p < 0.001). No significant differences were found between the means and medians ROM between the intraoperative period and at the 45-day assessment (ns) and between the means and medians ROM between the preoperative period and at the six-month evaluation (ns) . CONCLUSION: The final ROM achieved by patients that underwent TKA with medial pivot prosthesis can be predicted. The perioperative ROM correlates with that at 45 days after surgery. The final ROM is correlated with that of the pre-operative period.

ABSTRACT Objective: Violation of the posterior femoral cortex commonly referred to as posterior wall blowout, can be a devastating intraoperative complication in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) and can lead to loss of graft fixation or early graft failure. This study describes and analyzes whether the femoral tunnel view test can ensure the integrity of the femoral tunnel during ACLR. Methods: Intraoperative femoral tunnel integrity using the 360º arthroscopic view test was performed in 584 ACLR patients between 2014 and 2016. Posterior wall blowouts were described by their location along the femoral tunnel (i.e., near the aperture or more proximal) and by the depth of the tunnel blowout (5 mm), corresponding to the length of the posterior cortical wall of the violated femoral tunnel. The time spent for the test was measured during ACLR. Complications related to the femoral tunnel view test were also evaluated. Results: The femoral tunnel view test was performed in all 584 patients. In 12 patients (1%), the femoral tunnel presented a posterior cortical blowout that did not extend beyond 3 mm. Only four patients (0.6%) presented posterior wall blowout that extended beyond 5 mm. The time for the test was 40 s (±20 s). No complications related to the test were reported. Conclusion: The femoral tunnel view test is effective for ensuring the integrity of the femoral tunnel during ACL reconstruction, without increasing the surgical time and without an increase in the complications rate. Clinical relevance: The femoral tunnel view test is a quick and straightforward test able to provide an adequate view of the patient's anatomy to ensure tunnel integrity during ACLR.

Infection after total knee replacement (IATJ) is a rare complication. It is associated with increased morbidity and mortality increasing the final costs. Gram positive coccus and Staphylococcus coagulase-negative and Staphylococcus aureus are the most common isolated germs (>50% of the cases). Conditions related to the patient, to the surgical procedure and even to the post op have been identified as risk factors to IATJ. Many complementary methods together with clinical symptoms are useful to a proper diagnosis. Treatment for IATJ must be individualized but generally is a combination of systemic antibiotic therapy and surgical treatment. Prosthesis exchange in one or two stages is the first choice procedure. Debridement with prosthesis retention is an option in acute cases with stable implants and antibiotic sensible germs.