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PloS One 2024The aim of the study was to assess the external and internal compatibility of the Biometrics E-LINK EP9 evaluation system device in the area of hand grip and pinch... (Observational Study)
Observational Study
The aim of the study was to assess the external and internal compatibility of the Biometrics E-LINK EP9 evaluation system device in the area of hand grip and pinch strength in the Polish population. The testing of hand grip and pinch strength was carried out among 122 healthy students. Two examiners performed hand grip and pinch strength measurements with a Biometrics E-LINK EP9 evaluation system device. Measurements were made for the right and left hands. The same people were tested again two weeks later, under the same conditions. The scores of one rater on the first and second tests were compared for reproducibility, and the scores of the two raters were compared to assess the reliability of the instrument. The measurements were found to be highly consistent both between the investigators and between the tests in the hand grip dynamometer test. The findings show high values of the Pearson's correlation coefficient equal or close to 1, as well as the interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) >0.9. Analysis of pinch strength measurements performed using the pinchmeter also found high values of the Pearson's correlation coefficient close to 1, as well as the interclass correlation coefficient >0.9; this reflects high agreement between the measurements performed by two investigators as well as assessments performed by one investigator at time intervals. These findings were confirmed by analyses performed using Bland-Altman plots. The measurements made with the Biometrics E-link EP9 evaluation system show high internal and external consistency in hand grip and pinch strength assessment. Biometrics E-link EP9 can be recommended for daily clinical practice.
Topics: Humans; Hand Strength; Male; Female; Poland; Prospective Studies; Pinch Strength; Reproducibility of Results; Adult; Young Adult; Biometry; Muscle Strength Dynamometer
PubMed: 38781271
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0303648 -
Journal of Plastic Surgery and Hand... May 2024Four-corner arthrodesis with scaphoid excision (FCA) and proximal row carpal resection (PRC) are frequently performed in wrists with post-traumatic Scaphoid Non- Union... (Comparative Study)
Comparative Study
BACKGROUND
Four-corner arthrodesis with scaphoid excision (FCA) and proximal row carpal resection (PRC) are frequently performed in wrists with post-traumatic Scaphoid Non- Union Advanced Collapse (SNAC)/Scapho-Lunate Advanced Collapse (SLAC) osteoarthritis. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of these two procedures.
METHODS
This single-center, retrospective cohort study included all patients who had PRC or FCA between January 1st, 2009 and January 1st, 2019 and who were followed up. Follow-up included: mobility (radial deviation, ulnar deviation, flexion, extension), strength (grip test, pinch test), function (QuickDash, patient-rated wrist evaluation [PRWE]), subjective mobility, and global satisfaction scores.
RESULTS
Among 25 patients included, 11 had PRC and 14 had FCA with a mean follow-up of 69.5 months [12-132]. Radial deviation was 18° versus 14° (p = 0.7), ulnar deviation was 21° versus 22° (p = 0.15), flexion was 39° versus 30° (p = 0.32), extension was 32.5° versus 29.5° (p = 0.09), grip test compared to the controlateral side was 72% versus 62% (p = 0.53), Quick Dash score was 12.5 versus 17.6 (p = 0.84), PRWE was 18.7 versus 17.6 (p = 0.38), subjective mobility was 7.8 versus 7.5 (p = 0.23), and satisfaction score was 8.7 versus 9 (p = 0.76), respectively, in the FCA group and the PRC group. Re-operation rates were 14% patients in the FCA group and 0% in the PRC group.
CONCLUSION
This study found no significant difference between FCA and PRC on strength, mobility, and function in patients with post-traumatic SLAC or SNAC stage II wrist arthritis. Both FCA and PRC seem to be reliable surgical techniques with good outcomes with more revision in the FCA group.
Topics: Humans; Arthrodesis; Retrospective Studies; Male; Female; Middle Aged; Carpal Bones; Adult; Osteoarthritis; Scaphoid Bone; Hand Strength; Wrist Joint; Range of Motion, Articular; Patient Satisfaction; Aged; Cohort Studies
PubMed: 38769788
DOI: 10.2340/jphs.v59.18338 -
Nature Medicine May 2024Cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to permanent impairment of arm and hand functions. Here we conducted a prospective, single-arm, multicenter, open-label,... (Clinical Trial)
Clinical Trial
Cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to permanent impairment of arm and hand functions. Here we conducted a prospective, single-arm, multicenter, open-label, non-significant risk trial that evaluated the safety and efficacy of ARC Therapy to improve arm and hand functions in people with chronic SCI. ARC Therapy involves the delivery of externally applied electrical stimulation over the cervical spinal cord during structured rehabilitation. The primary endpoints were safety and efficacy as measured by whether the majority of participants exhibited significant improvement in both strength and functional performance in response to ARC Therapy compared to the end of an equivalent period of rehabilitation alone. Sixty participants completed the protocol. No serious adverse events related to ARC Therapy were reported, and the primary effectiveness endpoint was met. Seventy-two percent of participants demonstrated improvements greater than the minimally important difference criteria for both strength and functional domains. Secondary endpoint analysis revealed significant improvements in fingertip pinch force, hand prehension and strength, upper extremity motor and sensory abilities and self-reported increases in quality of life. These results demonstrate the safety and efficacy of ARC Therapy to improve hand and arm functions in people living with cervical SCI. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04697472 .
Topics: Humans; Quadriplegia; Male; Hand; Female; Middle Aged; Adult; Arm; Spinal Cord Injuries; Spinal Cord Stimulation; Treatment Outcome; Quality of Life; Prospective Studies; Chronic Disease; Aged; Electric Stimulation Therapy
PubMed: 38769431
DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-02940-9 -
Medical Science Monitor : International... May 2024BACKGROUND Scaphoid nonunion (SN) is a challenging condition in wrist pathology, often resulting in severe consequences if left untreated. Surgical intervention,...
Treatment of AVN-Induced Proximal Pole Scaphoid Nonunion Using a Fifth and Fourth Extensor Compartmental Artery as a Vascularized Pedicle Bone Graft: A Retrospective Case Series.
BACKGROUND Scaphoid nonunion (SN) is a challenging condition in wrist pathology, often resulting in severe consequences if left untreated. Surgical intervention, particularly using vascularized bone grafts (VBGs), is a promising but uncertain approach. The 4+5 extensor compartment artery (ECA) pedicled graft, less commonly used for SN, has potential benefits due to its vascular supply and accessibility to the scaphoid. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the 4+5 ECA pedicled graft combined with headless compression screw fixation in treating avascular necrosis (AVN)-induced proximal pole SN. Radiological results, functional outcomes, and complications related to this method were assessed. MATERIAL AND METHODS This was a retrospective analysis of 19 proximal pole SN cases with AVN treated using the 4+5 ECA-VBG technique from 2016 to 2022. Patients underwent preoperative evaluation and postoperative follow-up for at least 1 year. Data on surgery, demographics, radiological assessments, and functional outcomes were recorded and analyzed statistically. RESULTS All patients achieved radiographic union within 8.5 weeks postoperatively, with revascularization of proximal pole necrosis. Significant improvements in functional outcomes were observed, including pain reduction, increased wrist range of motion, improved grip and pinch strength, and enhanced wrist scores. No major complications were reported. CONCLUSIONS The 4+5 ECA-VBG technique, with headless compression screw fixation, showed high success rates in treating AVN-induced proximal pole SN. This method offers comprehensive restoration of wrist function and minimal complications, making it a viable option for SN management, especially in AVN cases. Further research is needed to confirm these results and establish standardized protocols for SN treatment.
Topics: Humans; Scaphoid Bone; Male; Retrospective Studies; Female; Adult; Fractures, Ununited; Osteonecrosis; Bone Transplantation; Fracture Fixation, Internal; Treatment Outcome; Middle Aged; Range of Motion, Articular; Young Adult; Adolescent; Bone Screws; Arteries
PubMed: 38762751
DOI: 10.12659/MSM.944553 -
Medicine May 2024This study aimed to investigate changes in hand sensation (finger tactile threshold and two-point discrimination) and function in patients with malignant lymphoma,... (Observational Study)
Observational Study
This study aimed to investigate changes in hand sensation (finger tactile threshold and two-point discrimination) and function in patients with malignant lymphoma, particularly during the early stages of chemotherapy with vincristine. Eighteen patients with malignant lymphoma were enrolled in this study. Data on the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events Version 4.0, the visual analog scale for hand numbness, the Semmes Weinstein monofilament test, static and moving two-point discrimination (2PD), grip strength, pinch strength, and the Purdue Pegboard test were collected at 3 time points: before the start of chemotherapy (T0), after the first cycle of chemotherapy (T1), and after the second cycle of chemotherapy (T2). No significant changes were observed in Semmes Weinstein monofilament test at T0, T1, or T2 in either hand. However, the static 2PD was significantly worse for the right ring, little, and left middle fingers, whereas the moving 2PD was significantly worse for the right ring, left index, middle, and ring fingers. Furthermore, the visual analog scale scores for hand numbness and left-hand grip strength worsened significantly. Right-hand grip strength, pinch strength of both hands, and Purdue Pegboard test showed no significant deterioration. Chemotherapy with vincristine may affect hand sensation and function in patients with malignant lymphoma by exacerbating finger 2PD and hand numbness. Additionally, during the early stages of vincristine chemotherapy, it is important to monitor for a decrease in grip strength specifically in the left hand.
Topics: Humans; Vincristine; Male; Female; Hand Strength; Middle Aged; Lymphoma; Hand; Aged; Adult; Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic; Hypesthesia
PubMed: 38758870
DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000038207 -
PloS One 2024Trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis (TMC-OA) reduces the range of motion (ROM) of the thumb. However, the kinematic change achieved through surgical treatment remains... (Comparative Study)
Comparative Study
Three-dimensional motion analysis of pre- and postoperative thumb movement in trapeziometacarpal joint osteoarthritis-Comparison of arthrodesis and trapeziectomy with suspensionplasty.
Trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis (TMC-OA) reduces the range of motion (ROM) of the thumb. However, the kinematic change achieved through surgical treatment remains unclear. Therefore, to quantify the kinematic change following TMC-OA surgery, we performed a three-dimensional motion analysis of the thumb using an optical motion capture system preoperatively and 1 year postoperatively in 23 patients with TMC-OA scheduled for arthrodesis (AD) or trapeziectomy with suspensionplasty (TS). Eighteen hands of nine healthy volunteers were also included as controls. Both procedures improved postoperative pain and Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores, and AD increased pinch strength. The ROM of the base of the thumb was preserved in AD, which was thought to be due to the appearance of compensatory movements of adjacent joints even if the ROM of the TMC joint was lost. TS did not improve ROM. Quantifying thumb kinematic changes following TMC-OA surgery can improve our understanding of TMC-OA treatment and help select surgical procedures and postoperative assessment.
Topics: Humans; Osteoarthritis; Female; Thumb; Male; Middle Aged; Arthrodesis; Range of Motion, Articular; Aged; Trapezium Bone; Biomechanical Phenomena; Carpometacarpal Joints; Movement; Adult; Postoperative Period
PubMed: 38753715
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302898 -
PloS One 2024African elephants have a wide range of abilities using their trunk. As a muscular hydrostat, and thanks to the two finger-like processes at its tip, this proboscis can...
African elephants have a wide range of abilities using their trunk. As a muscular hydrostat, and thanks to the two finger-like processes at its tip, this proboscis can both precisely grasp and exert considerable force by wrapping. Yet few studies have attempted to quantify its distal grasping force. Thus, using a device equipped with force sensors and an automatic reward system, the trunk tip pinch force has been quantified in five captive female African savanna elephants. Results showed that the maximum pinch force of the trunk was 86.4 N, which may suggest that this part of the trunk is mainly dedicated to precision grasping. We also highlighted for the first time a difference in force between the two fingers of the trunk, with the dorsal finger predominantly stronger than the ventral finger. Finally, we showed that the position of the trunk, particularly the torsion, influences its force and distribution between the two trunk fingers. All these results are discussed in the light of the trunk's anatomy, and open up new avenues for evolutionary reflection and soft robot grippers.
Topics: Animals; Elephants; Female; Torso; Fingers; Hand Strength; Biomechanical Phenomena
PubMed: 38743734
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301529 -
Cureus Apr 2024Background and aim Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is considered a promising non-invasive treatment option for osteoarthritis (OA). The current study aimed to evaluate...
Background and aim Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is considered a promising non-invasive treatment option for osteoarthritis (OA). The current study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of LLLT on patients with OA of the first carpometacarpal joint (CMC1) of the thumb. Methods An open-level, prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, for one year. Initially, 120 patients were approached for the study. Among them, 112 eligible patients were randomly divided into two groups: the intervention group received LLLT in addition to conservative treatment, while the control group received conservative treatment alone for four weeks. Pain and functional capability (motor) improvement were assessed on a weekly follow-up basis by using various parameters such as the visual analogue scale (VAS), Ritchie articular index (tenderness scale), grip strength, key pinch strength, Dreiser functional index, and CMC1 palmer abduction. Eventually, 90 patients completed the follow-ups and were included in the analysis. Results The majority of patients diagnosed with CMC1 joint OA were in their fifties. At baseline, patients of both intervention and control groups were indifferent in terms of demography, pain intensity, motor responses, and duration of suffering. After four weeks of treatment, results indicated an overall improvement in both groups. However, the reduction of pain and increase in functional capability were not found statistically significant (p-value: ≥0.5). Conclusion LLLT with conventional treatment was not found significantly more effective enough than conventional treatment alone, but more well-designed clinical trials with larger sample sizes are needed to reach a definitive conclusion.
PubMed: 38725743
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.57883 -
European Review For Medical and... Apr 2024The palmaris longus (PL) contributes to the palmar fascia, wrist flexion, hand muscle balance, and pinch strength. Also, PL is used as a graft source. So, PL's presence...
OBJECTIVE
The palmaris longus (PL) contributes to the palmar fascia, wrist flexion, hand muscle balance, and pinch strength. Also, PL is used as a graft source. So, PL's presence is helpful for joint stability and grafting. On the other hand, joint hypermobility (JH) is associated with many complaints and disorders. Considering the adverse effects of JH and benefit-based evolution, the genesis rather than agenesis of PL can be expected in JH. Herein, it was hypothesized that PL might be together with JH, and individuals with PL may have higher scores of JH than those without.
PATIENTS AND METHODS
Between June 2023 and October 2023, 200 participants (F/M: 1/1) were included in the study. The Schaeffer's test and the Beighton scores were used to assess PL and JH, respectively. The participants were divided into two bilateral groups according to the presence or absence of PL. Then, the groups were compared for demographics and Beighton scores. Subgroup analyses were also done by considering gender.
RESULTS
No significant differences were found between PL (+) and PL (-) groups considering females+males in age (p=0.559), gender (p=0.517), weight (p=0.375), height (p=0.061), work status (p=0.229), Beighton score (p=0.893), and JH (p=1.0). No significant differences were found between PL (+) and PL (-) groups considering females only in age (p=0.871), weight (p=0.189), height (p=0.127), work status (p=0.200), Beighton score (p=0.727), and JH (p=1.0). No significant differences were found between PL (+) and PL (-) groups considering males only in age (p=0.370), weight (p=0.981), height (p=0.400), BMI (p=0.601), work status (p=0.145), Beighton score (p=0.757), and JH (p=1.0).
CONCLUSIONS
According to the results of this study, no relationship was found between PL and JH. However, this is the first study on the topic and has some limitations.
Topics: Humans; Joint Instability; Female; Male; Adult; Middle Aged; Young Adult; Wrist Joint; Range of Motion, Articular; Muscle, Skeletal
PubMed: 38708478
DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202404_36048 -
Clinical Neurophysiology Practice 2024This study aimed to investigate the potential of whole-forearm flexor muscle (WFFM) compound muscle action potential (CMAP) as a quantitative biomarker for inclusion...
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to investigate the potential of whole-forearm flexor muscle (WFFM) compound muscle action potential (CMAP) as a quantitative biomarker for inclusion body myositis (IBM) pathology.
METHODS
We prospectively enrolled 14 consecutive patients (10 men and 4 women) diagnosed with IBM based on muscle biopsies. We evaluated the baseline-to-peak amplitude of the WFFM CMAP and other quantitative parameters, including grip and pinch strength, Inclusion Body Myositis Functional Rating Scale (IBMFRS) score, and other routine muscle CMAP amplitudes.
RESULTS
The WFFM CMAP was strongly correlated with disease duration and the IBMFRS score. The WFFM CMAP on the more affected side was lower than that on the less affected side. Furthermore, grip power was strongly correlated with the WFFM CMAP, whereas lateral pinch strength was strongly correlated with the WFFM and first dorsal interosseous CMAPs. The 3-point pinch strength was also correlated with the WFFM CMAP.
CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrates that the WFFM CMAP may serve as a biomarker of severity in IBM.
SIGNIFICANCE
Identification of this biomarker can support drug development, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment options for patients with IBM.
PubMed: 38707484
DOI: 10.1016/j.cnp.2024.03.003