Inhibition versus activation of canonical Wnt-signaling, to promote chondrogenic differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells. A review.

Canonical Wnt signaling regulation is essential for controlling stemness and differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). However, the mechanism through which canonical Wnt-dependent MSC lineage commitment leads to chondrogenesis is controversial. Some studies hypothesize that inhibition of canonical Wnt signaling induces MSC chondrogenic differentiation, while others support that the pathway should be activated to achieve MSC chondrogenesis.

Posterior subdeltoid and external rotators preserving approach for reduction and fixation of displaced extra-articular fractures of the scapula.

Background: Operative management of scapular body fractures, when indicated, typically involves extensive exposure through a posterior approach. We present our experience with a deltoid preserving approach that allows excellent exposure of the fracture lines for reduction and fixation while minimizing muscle detachment and overall tissue trauma.

Technique: Exposure of the scapula was obtained through a posterior incision.

Intra-abdominal and intra-pelvic complications following operations around the hip: causes and management-a review of the literature.

Although successful and well-established procedures, hip operations whether elective or trauma are coupled with a variety of complications. Among the most uncommon complications are injuries to intra-abdominal or intra-pelvic organs which could prove potentially life-threatening. While there are various reports of such injuries in the literature, we aimed to perform a systematic review in order to examine the causes and relationships between intra-abdominal and intra-pelvic complications and the mechanism of injury, the pattern of presentation, identification, the course of management and outcomes.

Survivorship of a Porous Tantalum Monoblock Acetabular Component in Primary Hip Arthroplasty With a Mean Follow-Up of 18 Years.

Background: The use of porous tantalum for the acetabular component in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) has demonstrated excellent short-term and midterm results. However, long-term data are scarce. The purpose of this prospective study is to report the long-term clinical and radiologic outcome following use of an uncemented porous tantalum acetabular component in primary THA with a minimum follow-up of 17.

Results from the surgical resection of severe heterotopic ossification of the hip: a case series of 26 patients.

Introduction: Surgical resection of heterotopic ossification (HO) around the hip joint is often challenging. The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes following surgical resection of Brooker's type III and IV HO of the hip.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed clinical and radiological data, between November 2006 and January 2013, of all patients who underwent surgical resection of severe HO of the hip.

Latissimus Dorsi Transfer in Posterior Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears.

Background: Massive rotator cuff tears pose a difficult and complex challenge even for the experienced surgeon; inability to repair these tears by conventional means designates them as irreparable, while management becomes quite taxing. Several operative options have been suggested for the management of such lesions with varying degrees of success, while it is imperative to match patient demands and expectations to the predicted outcome.

Methods: Research articles are examined and key concepts are discussed, in order to provide an evidence based review of the available literature.

A long term clinical outcome of the Medial Pivot Knee Arthroplasty System.

Background: The ideal total knee arthroplasty (TKA) should provide maximum range of motion and functional stability for all desired daily activities and, if possible, to replicate normal knee kinematics and function. The ADVANCE® Medial Pivot (AMP) Knee System was designed with a highly congruent medial compartment and a less conforming lateral compartment to more closely mimic the kinematics of the normal knee and to offer more stability through out of range of motion (ROM). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes of this TKA system.

The necessity to restore the anatomic hip centre in congenital hip disease.

Total hip replacement (THR) is the treatment of choice for the patient suffering from end-stage hip osteoarthritis. In the presence of deformities due to congenital hip disease (CHD), THR is, in most of the cases, a difficult task, since the technique of performing such an operation is demanding and the results could vary. We present our experience and preferred strategies focusing on challenges and surgical techniques associated with reconstructing the dysplastic hip.

Surgical management of congenital torticollis in children older than 7 years with an average 10-year follow-up.

The aim of the present study is to present the results of the surgical management of late presenting cases of congenital muscular torticollis. Between 1990 and 2010, 31 cases of late presenting congenital muscular torticollis were managed surgically in our department. Postoperatively, head halter traction was applied for 10 days; a cervical brace was applied for 5 weeks, followed by a soft one collar for 3 months.

Nerve injuries in total hip arthroplasty with a mini invasive anterior approach.

Purpose: Minimal invasive techniques in total hip arthroplasty (THA) have become increasingly popular during recent years. Despite much debate over the outcome of several minimal invasive techniques, complications arising from the use of anterior minimally invasive surgery (AMIS) for THA on a traction table are not well documented. Our study aims to focus on nerve damage during the AMIS procedure and the possible explanations of these injuries.

THA following deformities due to congenital dislocation of the hip joint.

Total hip replacement is the treatment of choice for the patient suffering from end-stage hip osteoarthritis. Excellent long-term results have been published. In the presence of deformities due to congenital hip dislocation, total hip replacement is, in most of the cases, a difficult task, since the technique of performing such an operation is demanding and the results could vary.