Comparison of the vastus-splitting and median parapatellar approaches for primary total knee arthroplasty: a prospective, randomized study. Surgical technique.

Background: A vastus-splitting approach for total knee arthroplasty has been advocated to preserve function of the extensor mechanism and to decrease the prevalence of lateral release. Critics have claimed that there is greater blood loss and compromised exposure in large patients who are managed with this approach. The purpose of the present study was to compare vastus-splitting and median parapatellar approaches for primary total knee arthroplasty.

Comparison of the vastus-splitting and median parapatellar approaches for primary total knee arthroplasty: a prospective, randomized study.

Background: A vastus-splitting approach for total knee arthroplasty has been advocated to preserve function of the extensor mechanism and to decrease the prevalence of lateral release. Critics have claimed that there is greater blood loss and compromised exposure in large patients who are managed with this approach. The purpose of the present study was to compare vastus-splitting and median parapatellar approaches for primary total knee arthroplasty.

Optimal timing of preoperative radiation for prophylaxis against heterotopic ossification. A rabbit hip model.

Background: In a previous study, we developed a rabbit model of heterotopic ossification and demonstrated that 800 or 1200 cGy of radiation before an operation on the hip significantly decreased postoperative ectopic bone formation compared with that seen after the operation on the non-irradiated, contralateral hip. The purpose of this study was to determine the optimal preoperative timing of radiation prophylaxis against heterotopic ossification following hip surgery in this same experimental model.

Methods: Seventy-two hips in thirty-six New Zealand White rabbits were divided into four treatment groups corresponding to four preoperative points in time (four hours, twenty-four hours, seventy-two hours, and three weeks).

The origin of osteoprogenitor cells responsible for heterotopic ossification following hip surgery: an animal model in the rabbit.

Purpose: To investigate the source of osteoprogenitor cells responsible for heterotopic ossification (HO) following total hip arthroplasty in an animal model.

Methods: New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits (n = 20) received a radiation treatment 24 h preoperatively to the hip joint of one hindquarter and to the femoral shaft of the contralateral side. Subjects underwent bilateral hip surgery 24 h after treatment.