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Biomedical subjects

B Hintermann

Publications and source records attributed to B Hintermann.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

[Early functional treatment of surgically managed Achilles tendon rupture].

40 acute traumatic ruptures of the Achilles tendon were evaluated in a prospective study after open repair using an early functional rehabilitation protocol. The age of the patients averaged 43 (23-64) years. The operation consisted of a Kessler suture and microadaptation of the tendon. A special boot was used for after treatment. The boot was used 9 (1-18) weeks and full weight bearing was reported after 7 (1-16) weeks. The sick leave time averaged 5.5 (0-18) weeks. After 1 year, length and ankle joint motion were restored. Outcome was assessed using a 100-point score described by Thermann. After 4 months it averaged 73.5 +/- 15.5 points and after 1 year 94.5 +/- 6.0 points. There were no perioperative complications. One rerupture occurred 6 weeks postoperatively and was operated successfully. The combination of surgical repair and early functional after treatment resulted in normal function after 1 year, but requires cooperation of the patient.

Achilles Tendon↗

Specific growth factors during the expansion and redifferentiation of adult human articular chondrocytes enhance chondrogenesis and cartilaginous tissue formation in vitro.

Adult human articular chondrocytes were expanded in a medium with 10% serum (CTR) or further supplemented with different mitogens (i.e., EGF, PDGFbb, FGF-2, TGF beta 1, or FGF-2/TGF beta 1). Cells were then induced to redifferentiate in 3D pellets using serum-supplemented medium (SSM), serum-free medium (SFM), or SFM supplemented with factors inducing differentiation of chondroprogenitor cells (i.e., TGF beta 1 and/or dexamethasone). All factors tested during expansion enhanced chondrocyte proliferation and dedifferentiation, as assessed by the mRNA ratios of collagen type II to type I (CII/CI) and aggrecan to versican (Agg/Ver), using real-time PCR. FGF-2/TGF beta 1-expanded chondrocytes displayed the lowest doubling times, CII/CI and Agg/Ver ratios, averaging, respectively, 50, 0.2 and 15% of CTR-expanded cells. Redifferentiation in pellets was more efficient in SFM than SSM only for EGF-, PDGFbb- or FGF-2-expanded chondrocytes. Upon supplementation of SFM with TGF beta and dexamethasone (SFM TD), CII/CI ratios decreased 4.4-fold for EGF- and PDGFbb-expanded chondrocytes, but increased 96-fold for FGF-2/TGF beta 1-expanded cells. Chondrocytes expanded with FGF-2/TGF beta 1 and redifferentiated in SFM TD expressed the largest mRNA amounts of CII and aggrecan and generated cartilaginous tissues with the highest accumulation of glycosaminoglycans and collagen type II. Our results provide evidence that growth factors during chondrocyte expansion not only influence cell proliferation and differentiation, but also the cell potential to redifferentiate and respond to regulatory molecules upon transfer into a 3D environment.

Adult↗

[Rupture of the Achilles tendon after local steroid injection. Case reports and consequences for treatment].

It is known that Steroids increase the risk for tendon ruptures. Despite this local steroids are still used in the treatment of achilles tendinitis. Three cases are demonstrated. All of them show an unusual rupture mechanism. Intraoperatively necrotic tendon changes are seen. All patients receive an open tendon reconstruction with healthy, autologous material. Although there is a delayed healing in one case, all patients show favourable results one year postoperatively with return to full range activity levels and are able to participate in sports.

Achilles Tendon↗

The role of ankle arthroscopy in the treatment strategies of osteochondritis dissecans lesions of the talus.

Thirty-six cases of osteochondritis dissecans (OD) of the talus were diagnosed among 413 ankle arthroscopies performed within a period of six years. In 52.8% of the cases the OD was found on the medial and in 41.7% on the lateral talus. 53.3% of the lateral OD presented stage III and IV lesions while only 26.3% of the medial OD were to be graded stage III and IV. Patients with grade I and II lesions had mostly excellent outcome scores between 90 and 100. However, four patients with medial OD at less severe stages who were treated surgically, showed a particularly unfavorable outcome with scores between 11 and 36. All these patients needed either ankle arthrodesis or total ankle joint replacement. For stage II and III medial lesions, our experience has led to a more conservative approach due to the unfavorable outcome of surgical treatment observed in these patients. Despite the usefulness of MRI in the diagnosis of OD of the talus, arthroscopy has been proven to represent a very helpful diagnostic tool in assessing extent and in particular stability and integrity of the osteochondritic lesion. Apart from enabling the various minimally invasive surgical treatment options, ankle arthroscopy should be performed in all patients with OD of the talus in order to help define the treatment strategy and avoid unnecessary surgery on stable lesions.

Adult↗

[Total ankle joint replacement].

We evaluated the short- to mid-term results of an unconstrained total ankle prosthesis (S.T.A.R.) with uncemented fixation. Seventy-nine consecutive ankle replacements were performed in 76 patients between 1996 and 2000. The initial diagnosis was posttraumatic osteoarthrosis in 51 cases (64%), primary osteoarthrosis in 14 cases (18%), and systemic joint affection in 14 cases (18%). Although 29 revision operations were necessary, all implants became fix, and no implants have been removed. At the last follow-up control, 38 patients (62%) were very satisfied, 20 patients (33%) were satisfied, and 3 patients (5%) were satisfied with reservations. The obtained range of motion was 35 degrees (range, 15 to 55 degrees), with a maximal plantarflexion of 27 degrees (range, 15 to 45 degrees) and dorsiflexion of 8 degrees (-3 to 20 degrees). The AOFAS-Hindfoot-Score of the 61 patients scored 84 points (range, 51 to 100 points). After settling of the implants within 6 weeks, no migration was noted in any case, and all implants were considered to be stable. The favorable results were considered to be a result of the mechanical properties of the S.T.A.R. total ankle prosthesis that allow for unconstrained motion. The rate of revisions, however, was too high, and it was considered to be a result of the design of tibial and talar component, the tibial fixation and the poor instrumentation. Nevertheless, total ankle replacement was shown to be a viable alternative to ankle arthrodesis. A longer follow-up is, however, mandatory to evaluate the long-term prognosis.

Adult↗

[Prognostically relevant factors in treatment of the post-traumatic unstable shoulder joint].

The purpose of this prospective study was to determine concomittant lesions of glenohumeral dislocation and their correlation with the outcome, to determine the influence of various stabilizing operation techniques on the outcome. 106 shoulders [104 patients, 81 men, 23 women, mean age 36 (16-83) years] operated because of shoulder instability after at minimum one shoulder luxation between 1988 to 1995 were evaluated 3 years (0.8-8 years) postoperatively using Constant score. Preoperative arthroscopy was performed to document intraarticular lesions. There were 7 reluxations (5 because of a new accident), mostly after Putti-Platt procedures. The average modified Constant Score was 66 (10-85) points (maximum 85). 29 patients (27%) had less than 60 points, mostly because of pain and restriction of function, and were evaluated as poor. Lesions of rotator cuff, long biceps tendon and subscapularis tendon had a bad prognosis. The severity of arthroscopically found lesions correlated with the outcome. Operations with shortening of subscapularis tendon or using a bone graft gave bad results. Anatomic reconstruction of the labrum-ligament complex in combination with a plasty of the extended capsule gave best results. Preoperative arthroscopy can determine the extent of different lesions after shoulder luxation which influence the outcome and is useful to select the optimal operation technique.

Adolescent↗

Arthroscopic findings in acute fractures of the ankle.

We have evaluated prospectively the arthroscopic findings in acute fractures of the ankle in 288 consecutive patients (148 men and 140 women) with a mean age of 45.6 years. According to the AO-Danis-Weber classification there were 14 type-A fractures, 198 type B and 76 type C. Lesions of the cartilage were found in 228 ankles (79.2%), more often on the talus (69.4%) than on the distal tibia (45.8%), the fibula (45.1%), or the medial malleolus (41.3%). There were more lesions in men than in women and in general they were more severe in men (p < 0.05). They also tended to be worse in patients under 30 years and in those over 60 years of age. The frequency and severity of the lesions increased from type-B to type-C fractures (p < 0.05). Within each type of fracture the lesions increased from subgroups 1 to 3 (p < 0.05). The anterior tibiofibular ligament was injured with increased frequency from type-B.1 to type-C3 fractures (p < 0.05), but it was not torn in all cases. While lateral ligamentous injuries were seen more often in type-B than in type-C fractures (p < 0.05), no difference was noted in the frequency of deltoid ligamentous lesions. Our findings show that arthroscopy is useful in identifying associated intra-articular lesions in acute fractures of the ankle.

Acute Disease↗

Rigid internal fixation of fractures of the proximal humerus in older patients.

In 42 elderly patients, 33 women and nine men with a mean age of 72 years, we treated displaced fractures of the proximal humerus (34 three-part, 8 four-part) using a blade plate and a standard deltopectoral approach. Functional treatment was started immediately after surgery. We reviewed 41 patients at one year and 38 at final follow-up at 3.4 years (2.4 to 4.5). At the final review, all the fractures had healed. The clinical results were graded as excellent in 13 patients, good in 17, fair in seven, and poor in one. The median Constant score was 73 +/- 18. Avascular necrosis of the humeral head occurred in two patients (5%). We conclude that rigid fixation of displaced fractures of the proximal humerus with a blade plate in the elderly patient provides sufficient primary stability to allow early functional treatment. The incidence of avascular necrosis and nonunion was low. Restoration of the anatomy and biomechanics may contribute to a good functional outcome when compared with alternative methods of fixation or conservative treatment. Regardless of the age of the patients, we advocate primary open reduction and rigid internal fixation of three- and four-part fractures of the proximal humerus.

Activities of Daily Living↗

[Operative treatment of diabetic foot].

The majority of diabetic foot ulcers are the results of repetitive pressure that exceeds the threshold of soft-tissue tolerance, leading to mechanical destruction of the tissue. Progression of plantar ulcers can rapidly lead to osteomyelitis that may result in loss of the foot through amputation. In order to prevent such a disaster, surgical treatment should be taken into consideration when conservative treatment remains without success. The goal of surgical treatment of an infected ulcer is debridement of the soft-tissue and removal of the underlying pressure by careful bone resection or correction of a deformity by arthrodesis. Various authors have recently reported successful surgical reconstruction of neuroarthropathic foot deformity and instability. Apparently arthrodesis is a viable alternative to amputation for patients with unstable deformity or recurrent ulceration. Proper preoperative evaluation is mandatory. The indications are not well defined yet.

Diabetic Foot↗

[Short- and mid-term results with the STAR total ankle prosthesis].

We evaluated the short- to mid-term results of an unconstrained total ankle prosthesis (S. T. A. R.) with uncemented fixation. Fifty consecutive ankle replacements were performed in 48 patients between 1996 and 1999. The initial diagnosis was posttraumatic osteoarthrosis in 31 cases (62 %), primary osteoarthrosis in 8 cases (16 %), and systemic joint affection in 11 cases (22 %), e. g. rheumatoid arthritis (6 cases), hemochromatosis (2 cases), psoriasis arthritis (1 case), lupus erythematodes (1 case), and sclerodermia (1 case). There were two perioperative complications: one superficial wound dehiscence that healed uneventfully, and one injury to the dorsal foot artery that necessitated primary reconstruction. Seven revisions, all in cases of posttraumatic arthrosis, were necessary: local revision of the fibula for painful lateral impingement (3 cases), posteromedial soft tissue revision for painful restriction of dorsiflexion (2 cases), percutaneous lengthening of the Achilles tendon (1 case), and osteotomy and callus distraction for angular correction after stress fracture of the distal tibia (1 case). At the last follow-up control, 21 patients (62 %) were very satisfied, 10 patients (29 %) were satisfied, and 3 patients (9 %) were satisfied with reservations. The obtained range of motion was 30 degrees (range, 15 to 55 degrees ), with a maximal plantarflexion of 25 degrees (range, 15 to 45 degrees ) and dorsiflexion of 5 degrees (-3 to 20 degrees ). When the AOFAS-Hindfoot-Score was applied, the 34 patients scored 84.1 points (range, 44 to 100 points). After settling of the implants within 6 weeks, no migration was noted in any case, and all implants were considered to be stable. The favorable results were considered to be a result of the mechanical properties of the S. T. A. R. total ankle prosthesis that allows for unconstrained motion of the polyethylene inlay on the tibial component, e. g. anteroposterior translation, mediolateral translation and axial rotation. The success of implantation may depend on exact technique, correct hindfoot alignment, sufficient capsuloligamentous stability of the ankle, and a solid bone stock. Although our first results are very encouraging, a longer follow-up is mandatory to answer the question whether ankle replacement is a viable alternative to ankle arthrodesis.

Achilles Tendon↗

[Significance of concomitant injuries in malleolar fractures. A prospective study].

The objective of this prospective study was to determine clinical and radiological results 2 years after ankle fractures and to compare them with preoperative arthroscopic findings. Of 135 consecutive patients undergoing osteosynthetic treatment, 128 (type A, 2; type B, 97; type C, 29) were reviewed 2 years later. The Kitaokascore for functional and clinical rating and the Kannusscore for radiological rating were used. Initial cartilaginous lesions localized on the medial malleolus led to poor clinical ratings (P < 0.01) and cartilaginous lesions of the pilon tibiale and talus caused poor radiological results (P < 0.032 and P < 0.046). After rupture of the deltoid ligament, more pain was observed (P < 0.038). Rupture of the syndesmosis, however, did not affect the outcome. Clinical outcome was poor among the 30- to 65-year-old patients. The clinical and radiological outcome of women was poorer (P < 0.018 and P < 0.046) than for men. The older the patients, the more radiological signs of arthritis were found. The outcome of ankle fracture seems to correlate significantly with the nature, dimension and localization of fracture-associated cartilaginous and ligament lesions. Age and sex also seem to play a significant role in the outcome.

Adult↗

Primary endoprosthesis in comminuted humeral head fractures in patients over 60 years of age.

The purpose of this study was to determine the early subjective and functional results after primary endoprosthesis replacement for comminuted humeral head fractures in patients over 60 years old. Twenty comminuted humeral head fractures in 20 patients were treated primarily (within 3.5 days (range 0-17 days) with a Neer II modular shoulder prosthesis, and were then followed up for an average of 32. 5 months (range 17-44 months). The average age of the patients was 77 years (range 63-91 years). The average post-operative Constant score was 52 points (range 30-76). This was significantly less than that of the contralateral side where the score was 80 points (range 53-100), P=0.0001. The average active abduction was 90 degrees (contralateral 157 degrees ) and active flexion 99 degrees (contralateral 161 degrees ). Eighteen of the 20 patients experienced relief of pain and would accept the same procedure again.

Activities of Daily Living↗

Biomechanics of the unstable ankle joint and clinical implications.

PURPOSE: The aim of this paper is to provide fundamental information about the biomechanics of the unstable ankle joint and to establish a rational for the daily clinic when dealing with patients in both, the acute and chronic unstable condition of the ankle joint complex. METHODS: The problem of the unstable ankle joint is worked up by analyses of the basic anatomy and biomechanics followed by an overview of its clinical manifestation including a differential diagnosis. RESULTS: The ankle joint and its surrounding ligaments represent a complex mechanical structure whose mechanical properties highly depend on ligament integrity. Recent in vitro studies have supported the hypothesis that, besides maintaining lateral ankle stability, the lateral ankle ligaments play a significant role in maintaining rotational ankle stability and in transferring movement between leg and foot. Instability of the ankle results from acute ligament injuries and may become chronic when complete ligament healing does not occur. Chronic instability syndrome may manifest with recurrent injuries with chronic lateral pain, tenderness, swelling, or induration with great difficulties in sports and daily activities. Symptomatic instability can be caused by mechanical instability with demonstrable instability, but it can be also present with no demonstrable instability. Impairment of ankle proprioception has been shown to be a major cause of symptomatic ankle instability. Other conditions may mimic ankle instability. CONCLUSIONS: The cause of chronic functional instability is often not mechanical instability but impairment of ankle proprioception. A history of insecurity, instability, and giving way is far more important in diagnosis than the physical and radiographic examination. If surgical treatment is advised, anatomical reconstruction of the ankle ligaments is mandatory for fear of altering the biomechanics.

Ankle Joint↗

Lengthening of the lateral column and reconstruction of the medial soft tissue for treatment of acquired flatfoot deformity associated with insufficiency of the posterior tibial tendon.

We analyzed our results of surgery for acquired flatfoot deformity after dysfunction of the posterior tibial tendon. This included lengthening the proximal lateral column by calcaneal osteotomy and reconstructing the medial soft tissue. Nineteen patients (9 women and 10 men; average age, 52.9 years [range, 24-72 years]) were treated for stage II and stage II-III insufficiency of the posterior tibial tendon. The medial soft tissue surgery included 18 reconstructions of the tendon, 11 transfers of the flexor digitorum longus tendon, 13 repairs of the deltoid ligament, and 3 repairs of the spring ligament. At follow-up (mean, 23.4 months), all patients had satisfactory restoration of their medial longitudinal arch, reduction of abduction in the forefoot, and restored height in the arch. All patients were able to bear weight fully on the foot that underwent surgery, and all but one were satisfied with the result achieved. The clinical result was rated as excellent in 6, good in 11, and fair in 2 cases. In all but one case, no loss of achieved correction in the foot was found. In one case, the calcaneocuboid joint had to undergo arthrodesis after 5 months because of painful degenerative joint disease. In the pes planovalgus and abductus deformities occurring in stage II disease, calcaneal osteotomy and reconstruction of the medial tendon and ligament seem to play a significant role in operative management. This was the case only when degenerative joint disease and significant subluxation of the subtalar or talonavicular joint or both had not already occurred. They seem to function by restoring more normal biomechanics, which allows reconstructed or transferred tendon to function successfully.

Adult↗

[Lateral column lengthening by calcaneal osteotomy combined with soft tissue reconstruction for treatment of severe posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. Methods and preliminary results].

The purpose of this paper is to present principle and technique of proximal lateral column lengthening by calcaneal osteotomy and to critically analyze our preliminary results. 16 patients (7 female, 9 male; average age 52.3 years [24-72 years]) were treated for stage II to III posterior tibial tendon insufficiency by calcaneal osteotomy and medial soft tissue reconstruction (tendon reconstruction, 15; tendon transfer, 8; deltoid ligament repair, 10). When the AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot Rating Scale was applied, these patients were shown to have significantly increased their scores from an average preoperative value of 49.1 to a mean postoperative value of 91.1 after a mean follow-up of 24.6 months. In all but one case no loss of achieved foot correction was noted. In one case, a fusion of the calcaneocuboid joint had to be performed after 5 months due to painful degenerative joint disease. At follow-up, all patients had satisfactory restoration of their medial longitudinal arch, reduction of forefoot abduction, and restored arch height. All patients were able to fully weight-bear the operated foot, and all patients were satisfied with the achieved result. In the pes planovalgus deformity occurring in stage II to III (as significant degenerative joint disease has not already occurred), osteotomies appear to have a significant role in the operative management and to function by restoring more normal biomechanics, thus allowing tendon reconstruction and tendon transfers to return to successful function.

Adult↗

[Anatomic reconstruction of the lateral ligaments of the ankle using a plantaris tendon graft in the treatment of chronic ankle joint instability].

The purpose of this work was to present our technique of anatomic reconstruction of the lateral ankle ligaments using a free plantaris tendon graft. Between 1988 and 1997, 52 ankles (48 patients) were treated for chronic ankle instability resisting to a training program of minimally 3 months. The average age was 28.6 years (16 to 46 years) at the time of surgery. There were 30 ankles in men and 22 ankles in females. 4 patients were treated on both ankles. 50 ankles were available for a follow-up investigation after a mean of 3.5 years (1 to 10 years). Based on the AOFAS-Hindfoot-Scale an average score of 97.9 points (90 to 100 points) was found. The functional result was found to be excellent in 39 ankles (78 %), good in 9 ankles (18 %), fair in 2 ankles (4 %), and poor in 0 ankle (0 %). Dorsi-/plantarflexion was not restricted in any ankle. Supination was slightly restricted in 2 ankles, but not increased in any ankle. High patient's satisfaction with respect to the achieved stability was found in all but one ankle. No deterioration with time was observed in any case. The overall good and excellent results with this method may be explained by the strictly anatomic reconstruction that did not alter the kinematics nor the mechanics of the ankle joint complex. In addition the peroneal tendons were not weakened. We feel that this procedure is a better alternative to other more complex ligament reconstructions, especially tenodesis operations by using the peroneal tendon.

Adolescent↗

Arthroscopic findings in luxatio erecta of the glenohumeral joint: case report and review of the literature.

PURPOSE: We report the case of an inferior glenohumeral dislocation of the shoulder in which arthroscopic assessment showed an extensive detachment of the labral-biceps tendon complex (Bankart and superior labrum anterior posterior [SLAP] lesions). We sought to review the literature to compare our findings with the reported lesions in this type of shoulder dislocation. CASE SUMMARY: A young patient presented with an inferior dislocation of his right shoulder (erect dislocation) after having sustained a motorcycle accident. Conventional radiographs revealed the humeral shaft parallel to the scapular spine and an anteroinferior position of the humeral head with a large avulsion of the greater tuberosity. Preceding arthroscopy showed a complete detachment of the anterior labrum and ligament complex (SLAP lesion). After open reduction and internal fixation of the greater tuberosity, the capsulolabral complex was reduced and securely fixed with three bone anchors at the glenoidal rim. The patient recovered well reaching full shoulder function after 5 months and regaining the former sports activity level within 9 months after surgery. DISCUSSION: Arthroscopy identified the location and extent of an important labral detachment that, in combination with the stability testing under anesthesia, proved the need for a labral refixation. The literature regarding reported pathology in inferior glenohumeral dislocation is reviewed, and the additional information on associated soft-tissue lesions by means of arthroscopy are discussed. RELEVANCE: No prior case of arthroscopic assessment in inferior glenohumeral dislocation of the shoulder has been reported. Recognizing the extent and site of accompanying labral detachments contributing to the instability of the joint may enhance our knowledge of the full pathology in these dislocations and thus allow an adequate surgical treatment.

Accidents, Traffic↗