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Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland) May 2024This study delves into the cutting-edge field of deep learning techniques, particularly deep convolutional neural networks (DCNNs), which have demonstrated unprecedented... (Review)
Review
OBJECTIVES
This study delves into the cutting-edge field of deep learning techniques, particularly deep convolutional neural networks (DCNNs), which have demonstrated unprecedented potential in assisting radiologists and orthopedic surgeons in precisely identifying meniscal tears. This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of deep learning models in recognizing, localizing, describing, and categorizing meniscal tears in magnetic resonance images (MRIs).
MATERIALS AND METHODS
This systematic review was rigorously conducted, strictly following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Extensive searches were conducted on MEDLINE (PubMed), Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. All identified articles underwent a comprehensive risk of bias analysis. Predictive performance values were either extracted or calculated for quantitative analysis, including sensitivity and specificity. The meta-analysis was performed for all prediction models that identified the presence and location of meniscus tears.
RESULTS
This study's findings underscore that a range of deep learning models exhibit robust performance in detecting and classifying meniscal tears, in one case surpassing the expertise of musculoskeletal radiologists. Most studies in this review concentrated on identifying tears in the medial or lateral meniscus and even precisely locating tears-whether in the anterior or posterior horn-with exceptional accuracy, as demonstrated by AUC values ranging from 0.83 to 0.94.
CONCLUSIONS
Based on these findings, deep learning models have showcased significant potential in analyzing knee MR images by learning intricate details within images. They offer precise outcomes across diverse tasks, including segmenting specific anatomical structures and identifying pathological regions. Contributions: This study focused exclusively on DL models for identifying and localizing meniscus tears. It presents a meta-analysis that includes eight studies for detecting the presence of a torn meniscus and a meta-analysis of three studies with low heterogeneity that localize and classify the menisci. Another novelty is the analysis of arthroscopic surgery as ground truth. The quality of the studies was assessed against the CLAIM checklist, and the risk of bias was determined using the QUADAS-2 tool.
PubMed: 38893617
DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14111090 -
Journal of Experimental Orthopaedics Jul 2024to provide a comprehensive overview of all the surgical techniques published in the literature for repairing meniscal ramp lesions focusing on the technical aspects and... (Review)
Review
PURPOSE
to provide a comprehensive overview of all the surgical techniques published in the literature for repairing meniscal ramp lesions focusing on the technical aspects and the pros and cons of every procedure. Such lesions can be managed using various approaches, each of this with its specific advantages and disadvantages.
METHODS
Pubmed Central, Scopus, and EMBASE databases were systematically reviewed according to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines for studies on surgical techniques for repairing meniscal ramp lesions through May 2023. Overall, 32 articles matched the selection criteria and were included in the study.
RESULTS
Debridement alone may be sufficient for small stable meniscal ramp lesions but, for tears in the menisco-capsular junction that affect the stability of the medial meniscus, it seems reasonable to repair it, even though the clinical results available in literature are contrasting. All-inside sutures through anterior portals seems to be an effective solution for meniscal ramp lesions with MTL tears. All-inside sutures through posteromedial portals are particularly useful for large meniscal ramp lesions, in which an inside-out suture can also be performed.
CONCLUSION
Meniscal ramp lesions can be managed using various approaches, each of this with its specific advantages and disadvantages. Further research is required to determine the optimal technique that can be considered as the gold standard and can provide the better results.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE
Level III, systematic review.
PubMed: 38887657
DOI: 10.1002/jeo2.12037 -
Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine Jun 2024While the biomechanical properties of the native medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) have been well studied, there is no comprehensive summary of the biomechanics of... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
While the biomechanical properties of the native medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) have been well studied, there is no comprehensive summary of the biomechanics of MPFL reconstruction (MPFLR). An accurate understanding of the kinematic properties and functional behavior of current techniques used in MPFLR is imperative to restoring native biomechanics and improving outcomes.
PURPOSE
To provide a comprehensive review of the biomechanical effects of variations in MPFLR, specifically to determine the effect of graft choice and reconstruction technique.
STUDY DESIGN
Systematic review.
METHODS
A systematic review was performed in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. A total of 32 studies met inclusion criteria: (1) using ≥8 human cadaveric specimens, (2) reporting on a component of MPFLR, and (3) having multiple comparison groups.
RESULTS
Gracilis, semitendinosus, and quadriceps grafts demonstrated an ultimate load to failure (N) of 206.2, 102.8, and 190.0 to 205.0 and stiffness (N/mm) of 20.4, 8.5, and 21.4 to 33.6, respectively. Single-bundle and double-bundle techniques produced an ultimate load to failure (N) of 171 and 213 and stiffness (N/mm) of 13.9 and 17.1, respectively. Anchors placed centrally and superomedially in the patella produced the smallest degree of length changes throughout range of motion in contrast to anchors placed more proximally. Sutures, suture anchors, and transosseous tunnels all produced similar ultimate load to failure, stiffness, and elongation data. Femoral tunnel malpositioning resulted in significant increases in contact pressures, patellar translation, tilt, and graft tightening or loosening. Low tension grafts (2 N) most closely restored the patellofemoral contact pressures, translation, and tilt. Graft fixation angles variably and inconsistently altered contact pressures, and patellar translation and tilt.
CONCLUSION
Data demonstrated that placement of the MPFLR femoral tunnel at the Schöttle point is critical to success. Femoral tunnel diameter should be ≥2 mm greater than graft diameter to limit graft advancement and overtensioning. Graft fixation, regardless of graft choice or fixation angle, is optimally performed under minimal tension with patellar fixation at the medial and superomedial patella. However, lower fixation angles may reduce graft strain, and higher fixation angles may exacerbate anisometry and length changes if femoral tunnel placement is nonanatomic.
PubMed: 38855071
DOI: 10.1177/23259671241241537 -
The Australian and New Zealand Journal... May 2024Studies using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy reveal substantial inconsistencies in the levels of brain glutamate, glutamine and glutamate + glutamine across... (Review)
Review
Glutamatergic neurotransmission in schizophrenia: A systematic review and quantitative synthesis of proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy studies across schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
OBJECTIVE
Studies using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy reveal substantial inconsistencies in the levels of brain glutamate, glutamine and glutamate + glutamine across schizophrenia spectrum disorders. This systematic review employs qualitative and quantitative methods to analyse the patterns and relationships between glutamatergic metabolites, schizophrenia spectrum disorders and brain regions.
METHODS
A literature search was conducted using various databases with keywords including glutamate, glutamine, schizophrenia, psychosis and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Inclusion criteria were limited to case-control studies that reported glutamatergic metabolite levels in adult patients with a schizophrenia spectrum disorder diagnosis - i.e. first-episode psychosis, schizophrenia, treatment-resistant schizophrenia and/or ultra-treatment-resistant schizophrenia - using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy at 3 T or above. Pooled study data were synthesized and analysed.
RESULTS
A total of 92 studies met the inclusion criteria, including 2721 healthy controls and 2822 schizophrenia spectrum disorder participants. Glu levels were higher in the basal ganglia, frontal cortex and medial prefrontal of first-episode psychosis participants, contrasting overall lower levels in schizophrenia participants. For Gln, strong differences in metabolite levels were evident in the basal ganglia, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and frontal cortex, with first-episode psychosis showing significantly higher levels in the basal ganglia. In glutamate + glutamine, higher metabolite levels were found across schizophrenia spectrum disorder groups, particularly in the basal ganglia and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of treatment-resistant schizophrenia participants. Significant relationships were found between metabolite levels and medication status, clinical measures and methodological variables.
CONCLUSION
The review highlights abnormal glutamatergic metabolite levels throughout schizophrenia spectrum disorders and in specific brain regions. The review underscores the importance of standardized future research assessing glutamatergic metabolites using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy due to considerable literature heterogeneity.
PubMed: 38812258
DOI: 10.1177/00048674241254216 -
Brain Sciences Apr 2024tinnitus is a common and often debilitating condition with limited evidence-based treatment options. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an approved treatment modality for... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
tinnitus is a common and often debilitating condition with limited evidence-based treatment options. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an approved treatment modality for certain neurological conditions; its experimental use as a treatment modality for severe tinnitus is novel and beginning to show promise. This systematic review focuses on the current evidence for the safety and efficacy of DBS for treatment of refractory tinnitus.
METHODS
a systematic search in PubMed and EMBASE was performed to identify peer-reviewed studies on DBS of non-cortical structures for the primary indication of tinnitus treatment. Three studies were identified as meeting these criteria, one of which had two related sub-studies.
RESULTS
seven patients with available data who underwent DBS for tinnitus were identified. DBS targets included nucleus accumbens (NAc), ventral anterior limb of the internal capsule (vALIC), caudate nucleus, and the medial geniculate body (MGB) of the thalamus. All studies used the Tinnitus Functional Index (TFI) as a primary outcome measure. DBS of the caudate was most commonly reported (n = 5), with a mean TFI improvement of 23.3 points. Only one subject underwent DBS targeting the NAc/vALIC (extrapolated TFI improvement 46.8) and one subject underwent DBS targeting the MGB (TFI improvement 59 points).
CONCLUSIONS
DBS is a promising treatment option for refractory subjective tinnitus, with early data, from small patient cohorts in multiple studies, suggesting its safety and efficacy. Further studies with a larger patient population are needed to support this safety and efficacy before implementing this treatment to daily practice.
PubMed: 38790431
DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14050452 -
Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland) May 2024(1) Background: Bone bruises in acute anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are closely linked to the occurrence of simultaneous meniscal and cartilage damage.... (Review)
Review
(1) Background: Bone bruises in acute anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are closely linked to the occurrence of simultaneous meniscal and cartilage damage. Despite the frequent occurrence of associated injuries including bone bruises, meniscus, and cartilage damage in patients with ACL injuries, a systematic review of the relationships between the presence of bone bruises and the extent of meniscus and cartilage injuries has yet to be conducted. (2) Methods: Multiple comprehensive databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library, were searched for studies that evaluated the relationship between bone bruises and meniscus or cartilage injuries following ACL injuries. Study selection, data extraction, and meta-analysis were performed. The Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) was used for quality assessments, and Review Manager 5.3 was used for data analysis. (3) Results: Data were extracted from 22 studies encompassing a total of 2891 patients with ACL injuries. Among the included studies, six studies investigated the relationships between bone bruises and medial meniscus (MM) or lateral meniscus (LM) injuries, while three studies investigated the relationships between bone bruises and cartilage injuries. There were no significant correlations between the presence of bone bruises and MM injuries (relative risk (RR) = 1.32; = 0.61). A quantitative analysis indicated that individuals with bone bruises had a 2.71-fold higher likelihood of sustaining LM injuries than those without bone bruises (RR = 2.71; = 0.0003). The analysis confirmed a significant relationship between bone bruises and cartilage injuries (RR = 6.18; = 0.003). (4) Conclusions: Bone bruises occur most frequently in the lateral compartment. Bone bruises resulting from ACL injuries are related to accompanying LM injuries and cartilage injuries. Knowing these associations and the frequency of injuries may allow orthopedic surgeons to promptly address ACL-related meniscus and cartilage injuries on MRI results and in future clinical practice.
PubMed: 38790382
DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11050515 -
Journal of Orthopaedics Oct 2024Hypermobility describes the movement of joints beyond normal limits. Whether hypermobility predisposes to patellar instability is yet to be established. We aimed to... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
Hypermobility describes the movement of joints beyond normal limits. Whether hypermobility predisposes to patellar instability is yet to be established. We aimed to determine if joint hypermobility leads to an increased risk of patellar instability, and to evaluate outcomes of treatment for patellar instability in those who exhibit hypermobility.
METHODS
Published and unpublished literature databases were searched to September 7, 2023. Studies comparing prevalence of patellar dislocation/differences in treatment outcomes in patients with and without hypermobility were included.
RESULTS
We identified 18 eligible studies (4,391 patients). The evidence was low in quality. A case series on 82 patients found that there was a relationship between generalised joint laxity and patellar instability. This was corroborated by a study comparing 104 patients with patellar dislocation to 110 patients without. Prevalence of generalised joint laxity was six time higher in the former (64.4% vs 10.9%, p < 0.001).Five studies found surgical intervention aimed at correcting patellar dislocation in patients with idiopathic hypermobility led to satisfactory outcomes. There was conflicting evidence regarding if hypermobile patients have worse outcomes than non-hypermobile patients following medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (MPFLR) in two studies. In addition, this procedure had a 19.1% failure rate in patients with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS), with hypermobility associated with a higher failure rate (p = 0.03). One study showed the type of graft used made no difference in outcome scores or re-dislocation rates (p > 0.5). Another study had 7/31 (22.6%) autografts which failed, compared to 2/16 allografts (12.5%) (p = 0.69).
CONCLUSION
Joint hypermobility is a risk factor for patellar instability. Identification of at-risk groups may aid prevention of dislocations and allow for appropriate treatment. Patients with EDS experience poor outcomes following patellar stabilization surgery, with post-operative monitoring required.
PubMed: 38784948
DOI: 10.1016/j.jor.2024.05.009 -
JPRAS Open Jun 2024Despite the growing use of autologous breast reconstruction with medial thigh-based free flaps, such as transverse upper gracilis (TMG) or profunda artery perforator... (Review)
Review
Despite the growing use of autologous breast reconstruction with medial thigh-based free flaps, such as transverse upper gracilis (TMG) or profunda artery perforator (PAP) flaps, these procedures are infrequently performed on patients with obesity. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the frequency of seroma occurrence, a common complication after medial thigh flap surgery. Comparison was performed between TMG and PAP flaps, as well as medial thigh lifts (MTL), a procedure with a similar operative technique but which is typically offered to patients with a higher body mass index (BMI). Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines, we analyzed EMBASE, PUBMED, and MEDLINE data (English/German). The primary outcomes assessed were occurrence of seroma, as well as hematoma and wound dehiscence. Subgroup analyses explored age, BMI, and various surgical factors. This meta-analysis incorporated 28 studies, totaling 1096 patients. MTL patients had significantly higher BMIs, whereas seroma rates were similar among TMG, PAP, and MTL patients. The incidence of hematoma and wound dehiscence was also similar across the groups. In the metaregression analysis, factors such as age and BMI showed no significant correlation with seroma occurrence in all groups. This systematic review and meta-analysis identified comparable rates of seroma formation after TMG flap, PAP flap, and MTL procedures. Considering that this phenomenon occurred despite the elevated BMI of the MTL group, we propose that patients with higher BMI need not be excluded as candidates for autologous medial thigh-based breast reconstruction. Hence, these procedures should not be limited to small- to medium-sized breasts. Large-scale prospective studies are imperative to validate these conclusions and reveal the underlying factors contributing to seroma formation.
PubMed: 38770115
DOI: 10.1016/j.jpra.2024.03.013 -
Acta Ortopedica Brasileira 2024to determine the surgical indications for glenoid bone grafting associated with better postoperative ranges of motion. (Review)
Review
OBJECTIVE
to determine the surgical indications for glenoid bone grafting associated with better postoperative ranges of motion.
METHODS
This systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA. The included studies were subdivided according to the criteria used to indicate glenoid bone graft surgery: group for radiological indications only (Group R), group for radiological indications associated with clinical indications (Group R + C), and group for arthroscopic indications (Group A). The extracted and evaluated data were the range of motion of the shoulder.
RESULTS
in the electronic search conducted in October 2022, 1567 articles were selected. After applying the inclusion criteria, 14 articles were selected for the systematic review. Regarding the ranges of motion, group A had the highest number of statistically positive results together with group R. Group A showed positive results in elevation parameters, loss of lateral rotation in adduction, and medial rotation in abduction. Group R showed positive results in lateral rotation in adduction and loss of lateral rotation in adduction. On the other hand, Group R + C was the one that presented the highest number of statistically negative results, in the following parameters: elevation, lateral rotation in abduction, loss of lateral rotation in adduction, and medial rotation in abduction.
CONCLUSION
the subgroups presented variable results in the evaluated parameters; however, the groups with arthroscopic and radiological indications showed the highest number of positive results, with the latter group showing the best results regarding lateral rotation.
PubMed: 38716462
DOI: 10.1590/1413-785220243201e273366 -
Acta Otorhinolaryngologica Italica :... Apr 2024Intraorbital foreign bodies (IOFBs) represent a clinical challenge: surgical management can be controversial and different strategies have been proposed. When removal is... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
Intraorbital foreign bodies (IOFBs) represent a clinical challenge: surgical management can be controversial and different strategies have been proposed. When removal is recommended, depending on the location and nature of the IOFB both external and endoscopic approaches have been proposed, with significantly different surgical corridors to the orbit and different morbidities.
METHODS
We performed a literature review of cases of IOFBs that received exclusive endoscopic transnasal surgical treatment to evaluate the role of this surgery in these occurrences. We also present a case of an intraorbital intraconal bullet that was successfully removed using an endoscopic transnasal approach with good outcomes in terms of ocular motility and visual acuity.
RESULTS
A limited number of cases of IOFBs have been treated with an exclusive endoscopic transnasal approach. When in the medial compartment, this approach appears to be safe and effective. In our case, two months after surgery the patient showed complete recovery with no significant long-term sequelae.
CONCLUSIONS
When feasible, an endoscopic transnasal approach for intraorbital foreign bodies represents a valid surgical technique with optimal outcomes and satisfactory recovery.
PubMed: 38712521
DOI: 10.14639/0392-100X-N2868