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Biomedical subjects

Peter J Millett

Publications and source records attributed to Peter J Millett.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

Surgical anatomy of the triceps brachii tendon: anatomical study and clinical correlation.

BACKGROUND: The triceps tendon has been described as a single unit with contribution from each of the 3 heads of the muscle. An observation at the time of surgical repair of a triceps tendon injury led to an anatomical study to further define the anatomy of this tendon as it inserts on the olecranon. HYPOTHESIS: The medial head of the triceps has a tendon that is distinct from, and deep to, the common tendon of the long and lateral heads. STUDY DESIGN: Descriptive laboratory study and case report. METHODS: Eight cadaveric elbows were dissected to examine the triceps tendon. None of the specimens had any evidence of prior injury or surgery to the elbow. All specimens were fresh-frozen and stored at -4 degrees C until they were thawed for use. Skin and subcutaneous tissue were removed, and the tendon of each head of the triceps was explored from the muscle to its bony insertion. RESULTS: In all 8 specimens, on gross inspection, the medial head had a separate insertion deep to the common insertion of the lateral and long heads. The muscle of the medial head extended further distally than did the long and lateral heads. The medial head was muscular to its deep insertion, with a small amount of tendon blended with the muscle distally. Histologic analysis demonstrated that the tendon of the medial head and that of the other 2 heads are confluent distally at their olecranon insertion. CONCLUSION: The medial head of the triceps has a tendon that is distinct from, and deep to, the common tendon of the long and lateral heads on gross inspection. Histologic studies show the insertion of these 2 tendons is confluent. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This anatomy has important implications for surgical repair of these tendon injuries. Rupture of the deep triceps insertion alone can occur and lead to weakness of elbow extension with the elbow flexed beyond 90 degrees . Triceps strength should be tested with the elbow fully flexed when injury to the tendinous insertion is suspected.

Adult↗

Analysis of transfusion predictors in shoulder arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: We are not aware of any previous study that has examined predictive factors for blood transfusion after shoulder arthroplasty. We analyzed the association between clinical factors and the need for postoperative blood transfusion and documented the use and waste of predonated blood in a group of patients managed with shoulder arthroplasty. METHODS: A retrospective study of 119 patients who underwent 124 shoulder arthroplasties (including eighty-seven primary uncomplicated total shoulder arthroplasties, twenty-seven revision or complicated primary total shoulder arthroplasties, and ten hemiarthroplasties) from 2001 to 2004 was performed. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine which clinical variables were predictive of transfusion. RESULTS: A postoperative transfusion was received after thirty-one arthroplasties (25%). The strongest predictor of blood transfusion after shoulder arthroplasty was the preoperative hemoglobin level (likelihood ratio test = 37.8, p < 0.0001). Patients with a preoperative hemoglobin level of between 110 and 130 g/L had a five times greater estimated risk of transfusion than those with a level of >130 g/L (p < 0.001). Gender, body mass index, preoperative diagnosis, comorbid conditions, use of anticoagulants or aspirin, autologous predonation status, type of anesthesia, operative time, and decrease in hemoglobin or hematocrit were not predictors of blood transfusion. One hundred and two (78%) of the 131 predonated autologous units were discarded. Patients with a preoperative hemoglobin level of >130 g/L had the highest percentage of wasted units (90%; fifty-five of sixty-one). Preoperative autologous blood donation did not eliminate the risk of allogeneic blood transfusion in autologous donors. CONCLUSIONS: The preoperative hemoglobin level is the strongest predictor of blood transfusion after shoulder surgery, and individuals with a preoperative hemoglobin level of <110 g/L have the highest risk of transfusion. On the basis of these findings, we do not recommend autologous predonation for individuals with a preoperative hemoglobin level of >130 g/L, to avoid unnecessary expense and waste.

Adult↗

Proteomics: applications to the study of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

The study of both DNA and protein technologies has been marked by unprecedented achievement over the last decade. The completion of the Human Genome Project in 2003 is representative of a new era in genomics; likewise, proteomics research, which has revolutionized the way we study disease, offers the potential to unlock many of the pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying the clinical problems encountered by orthopaedic surgeons. These new fields are extending our approach to and investigation of the etiology and progression of musculoskeletal disorders, notably rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Advances in proteomics technology may lead to the development of biomarkers for both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Such biomarkers would improve early detection of these diseases, measure response to treatment, and expand knowledge of disease pathogenesis.

Arthritis, Rheumatoid↗

Recurrent posterior shoulder instability.

Recurrent posterior shoulder instability is an uncommon condition. It is often unrecognized, leading to incorrect diagnoses, delays in diagnosis, and even missed diagnoses. Posterior instability encompasses a wide spectrum of pathology, ranging from unidirectional posterior subluxation to multidirectional instability to locked posterior dislocations. Nonsurgical treatment of posterior shoulder instability is successful in most cases; however, surgical intervention is indicated when conservative treatment fails. For optimal results, the surgeon must accurately define the pattern of instability and address all soft-tissue and bony injuries present at the time of surgery. Arthroscopic treatment of posterior shoulder instability has increased application, and a variety of techniques has been described to manage posterior glenohumeral instability related to posterior capsulolabral injury.

Biomechanical Phenomena↗

Rehabilitation of the rotator cuff: an evaluation-based approach.

Rotator cuff disease of the shoulder, a common condition, is often incapacitating. Whether nonsurgical or surgical, successful management of rotator cuff disease is dependent on appropriate rehabilitation. Numerous rehabilitation protocols for the management of rotator cuff disease are based primarily on anecdotal clinical observation. The available literature on shoulder rehabilitation, in conjunction with clinical observation that takes into consideration the underlying tissue quality and structural integrity of the rotator cuff, can be compiled into a set of rehabilitation guidelines. The four phases of rehabilitation begin with maintaining and protecting the repair in the immediate postoperative period, followed by progression from early passive range of motion through return to preoperative levels of function.

Biomechanical Phenomena↗

Anatomical glenoid reconstruction for recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability with glenoid deficiency using an autogenous tricortical iliac crest bone graft.

BACKGROUND: Anterior shoulder instability associated with severe glenoid bone loss is rare, and little has been reported on this problem. Recent biomechanical and anatomical studies have suggested guidelines for bony reconstruction of the glenoid. HYPOTHESIS: Anatomical glenoid reconstruction will restore stability in shoulders with recurrent anterior instability owing to glenoid bone loss. STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: Eleven cases of traumatic recurrent anterior instability that required bony reconstruction for severe anterior glenoid bone loss were reviewed. In all cases, the length of the anterior glenoid defect exceeded the maximum anteroposterior radius of the glenoid based on preoperative assessment by 3-dimensional CT scan. Surgical reconstruction was performed using an intra-articular tricortical iliac crest bone graft contoured to reestablish the concavity and width of the glenoid. The graft was fixed with cannulated screws in combination with an anterior-inferior capsular repair. RESULTS: At mean follow-up of 33 months, the mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score was 94, compared with a preoperative score of 65. The University of California, Los Angeles score improved to 33 from 18. The Rowe score improved to 94 from a preoperative score of 28. The mean motion loss compared with the contralateral, normal shoulder was 7 degrees of flexion, 14 degrees of external rotation in abduction, and one spinous process level for internal rotation. All patients returned to preinjury levels of sport, and only 2 complained of mild pain with overhead sports activities. No patients reported any recurrent instability (dislocation or subluxation). The CT scans with 3-dimensional reconstructions obtained 4 to 6 months postoperatively demonstrated union of the bone graft with incorporation along the anterior glenoid rim and preservation of joint space. CONCLUSION: Anatomical reconstruction of the glenoid with autogenous iliac crest bone graft for recurrent glenohumeral instability in the setting of bone deficiency is an effective form of treatment for this problem.

Adult↗

Arthroscopic single-row versus double-row suture anchor rotator cuff repair.

BACKGROUND: Recurrent defects after open and arthroscopic rotator cuff repair are common. Double-row repair techniques may improve initial fixation and quality of rotator cuff repair. PURPOSE: To evaluate the load to failure, cyclic displacement, and anatomical footprint of 4 arthroscopic rotator cuff repair techniques. HYPOTHESIS: Double-row suture anchor repair would have superior structural properties and would create a larger footprint compared to single-row repair. STUDY DESIGN: Controlled laboratory study. METHODS: Twenty fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders were randomly assigned to 4 arthroscopic repair techniques. The repair was performed as either a single-row technique or 1 of 3 double-row techniques: diamond, mattress double anchor, or modified mattress double anchor. Angle of loading, anchor type, bone mineral density, anchor distribution, angle of anchor insertion, arthroscopic technique, and suture type and size were all controlled. Footprint length and width were quantified before and after repair. Displacement with cyclic loading and load to failure were determined. RESULTS: There were no differences in load to failure and displacement with cyclic loading between the single-row repair and each double-row repair. All repair groups demonstrated load to failure greater than 250 N. A significantly greater supraspinatus footprint width was seen with double-row techniques compared to single-row repair. CONCLUSIONS: The single-row repair technique was similar to the double-row techniques in load to failure, cyclic displacement, and gap formation. The double-row anchor repairs consistently restored a larger footprint than did the single-row method. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The arthroscopic techniques studied have strong structural properties that approached the reported performance of open repair techniques. Double-row techniques provide a larger footprint width; although not addressed by this study, such a factor may improve the biological quality of repair.

Absorbable Implants↗

An assessment of willingness to participate in a randomized trial of arthroscopic knee surgery in patients with osteoarthritis.

Identifying barriers to recruitment into a randomized clinical trial can help researchers adjust recruitment strategies to maximize enrollment. To determine barriers to enrollment of patients in trials of knee osteoarthritis treatments, we recruited from three centers patients over age 45 who had both knee osteoarthritis and a meniscal tear. We described a hypothetical randomized trial of arthroscopic partial meniscectomy versus non-operative management and assessed patients' willingness to participate in such a trial. We elicited preferences for treatment along with information on age, sex, education level, race, work status, and pain. We examined the association between these factors and willingness to participate in the trial. Orthopedic surgeons identified 106 eligible osteoarthritis patients, of whom 12 could not be reached, 6 refused and 88 (83%) completed interviews. 63% were female, 55% were college graduates, 23% were non-white and mean age was 60+/-8. The mean WOMAC pain score was 56+/-23. 22% of patients stated that they were definitely willing to participate in the hypothetical trial, and 24% stated they were probably willing. Subjects lacking strong preferences for treatment stated a greater willingness to participate than those with strong preferences (36-14% definitely willing, chi(2) for trend, p=0.005). WOMAC pain score, age, education, work status and race were not associated with willingness to participate. Males were more likely than females to state a willingness to participate (39-11% definitely willing, p=0.005). Since OA affects females disproportionately, a better understanding of barriers to females' participation in trials may enhance future research on treatment of osteoarthritis. Effectively addressing a priori treatment preferences through patient education about the advantages and drawbacks of treatments may increase willingness to participate in trials.

Aged↗

Open operative treatment for anterior shoulder instability: when and why?

The treatment of anterior glenohumeral instability continues to evolve. Open capsulolabral repairs are time-tested and reliable. In an era in which arthroscopic techniques continue to improve, open surgery remains an acceptable option, and there are still certain injury patterns that cannot be adequately addressed arthroscopically. Decision-making regarding surgery for instability is influenced by the surgeon's experience and the relevant pathological findings. Open operative treatment is the preferred approach in many instances of recurrent anterior instability, particularly when there is bone and soft-tissue loss and in revision settings.

Humans↗

Management of a patient with an isolated greater tuberosity fracture and rotator cuff tear.

STUDY DESIGN: Case report. BACKGROUND: Patients with hyperflexion/hyperabduction injury to the glenohumeral joint are at risk for isolated greater tuberosity fractures, which are often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. In this case report, we describe the clinical decision-making process that led to the diagnosis of an isolated greater tuberosity fracture and subsequent rotator cuff tear. CASE DESCRIPTION: The patient was a 45-year-old male who sustained a shoulder injury as the result of a fall while skiing. After the initiation of physical therapy, he was diagnosed with an isolated greater tuberosity fracture. Little is known regarding the optimal management and overall prognosis of this type of fracture. Conservative nonoperative management and postoperative physical therapy management are discussed. OUTCOMES: With conservative nonoperative management, the patient was unable to regain high-level functional shoulder use. Suspicion of continued pathology of the greater tuberosity dictated further diagnostic imaging, which led to surgical intervention. Upon completion of postoperative rehabilitation, he was able to resume full recreational activities. DISCUSSION: It is recommended that sound clinical decision-making dictate the management and ongoing evaluation of traumatic shoulder injuries, especially when managing a patient with an injury for which optimal treatment and prognosis is not well established.

Athletic Injuries↗

Calcifying tendinitis of the rotator cuff with cortical bone erosion.

Calcifying tendinitis occurs most commonly in the rotator cuff tendons, particularly involving the supraspinatus tendon insertion, and is often asymptomatic. Cortical erosion secondary to calcifying tendinitis has been reported in multiple locations, including in the rotator cuff tendons. We present a pathologically proven case of symptomatic calcifying tendinitis involving the infraspinatus tendon with cortical erosion with correlative radiographic, CT, and MR findings. The importance of considering this diagnosis when evaluating lytic lesions of the humerus and the imaging differential diagnosis of calcifying tendinitis and cortical erosion are discussed.

Adult↗

Arthroscopic repair of SLAP lesions with a bioknotless suture anchor.

The diagnosis and treatment of SLAP tears have improved with the development of arthroscopic shoulder surgery techniques. With types 2 and 4 tears, the goal is to restore stability to the labrum and biceps anchor and achieve healing to the glenoid. Suture repair with anchors is currently the repair technique of choice. The purpose of this article is to report a fast and simple method for arthroscopic SLAP repair that uses knotless suture anchors and obviates complex suture management and arthroscopic knot tying.

Absorbable Implants↗

Arthroscopic treatment of the arthrofibrotic knee.

The management of motion loss of the knee is challenging. A clear understanding of the pathoanatomic causes of motion loss is necessary to establish a careful and rational approach to treatment. Early recognition and physical therapy are effective for the majority of patients, but when these conservative measures fail, operative intervention is indicated. The purpose of this article is to outline a comprehensive approach to the arthroscopic evaluation and treatment of the arthrofibrotic knee. This technique is designed to allow the surgeon to systematically address the numerous causes of motion loss of the knee.

Arthroscopy↗

Mattress double anchor footprint repair: a novel, arthroscopic rotator cuff repair technique.

In an effort to increase the immediate strength of a rotator cuff repair and to simulate the standard open reconstruction with its effective suture fixation, we have developed a novel technique for suture anchor reconstruction of the rotator cuff. The technique, termed mattress double anchor (MDA), is simple and adaptable. It makes use of 2 suture anchors that are placed independently and then connected by a suture loop. The technique produces a repair construct that distributes the stress across 2 anchors. The method also restores a large surface area for healing between the rotator cuff and the tuberosity.

Arthroscopy↗

Early ACL reconstruction in combined ACL-MCL injuries.

This study reports 18 patients with 19 combined ligament injuries with complete anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear and a minimum grade II medial collateral ligament (MCL) tear who underwent early reconstruction of the ACL and nonoperative treatment of the MCL. Inclusion criteria included ACL reconstruction performed within 3 weeks of initial injury, no history of antecedent injury to the ipsilateral knee, and 2-year follow-up data. Associated injuries were noted in 11 patients including 6 isolated lateral meniscal tears, 1 isolated medial meniscal tear, 5 combined meniscal tears, 1 chondral injury, and 1 patellar fracture. Subjective minimum 2-year follow-up yielded a mean Lysholm score of 94.5 and a mean Tegner activity score of 8.4. Serial clinical examinations demonstrated good functional outcomes, range of motion, and strength. No patient experienced ACL graft failure or valgus instability or required subsequent surgery for chondral or meniscal damage. One patient required a second surgery for arthrofibrosis. Clinical and functional outcomes in this study were good with low motion complication rates. Based on our data, early surgical reconstruction of the ACL and nonoperative treatment of the MCL in combined injuries is acceptable and results in excellent clinical and functional outcomes.

Adolescent↗