Computer-assisted navigation in patellofemoral arthroplasty: a new technique to improve rotational position of the trochlea.

Background: Maltracking or subluxation is one of the complications of patellofemoral arthroplasty.

Questions/purposes: We questioned whether the computed navigation system can improve patellar tracking in patients with patellofemoral arthroplasty (PFA).

Methods: Between 2007 and 2010 we performed 15 patellofemoral arthroplasties using the Ceraver PFA and navigation assistance.

Analysis of intraoperative difficulties and management of operative complications in revision anterior exposure of the lumbar spine: a report of 25 consecutive cases.

Purpose: After a first anterior approach to the lumbar spine, formation of adhesions of soft tissues to the spine increases the surgical difficulties and potential for iatrogenic injury during the revision exposure. The objective of this study was to identify the intraoperative difficulties and postoperative complications associated with revision anterior lumbar spine procedures in a single institution.

Methods: This is a retrospective review of 25 consecutive anterior revision lumbar surgeries in 22 patients (7 men and 15 women) operated on between 1998 and 2011.

The natural progression of adult elbow osteonecrosis related to corticosteroid treatment.

Background: In patients with corticosteroid treatment, the elbow is a rare site of osteonecrosis; there is little information about the rate and risk factors of disease progression in symptomatic and asymptomatic elbows.

Question/purposes: We determined the delay between the beginning of corticosteroid treatment and different stages of osteonecrosis and which stage and dose of steroids influenced disease progression.

Methods: Osteonecrosis related to corticosteroids was diagnosed by MRI in 50 elbows of 35 adult patients.