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Background The management of osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT) is challenging, with 2 main options being conservative and surgical management. Orthobiologic therapies come to bridge the gap between these 2 options; however, inconsistencies in indication, composition, and heterogeneous evidence limit clinical decision-making. To address these challenges, 3 International Congress Meetings on Cartilage Repair of the Ankle were convened in Pittsburgh, USA (2017), Dublin, Ireland (2019), and New York, USA (2025) to establish agreement on the role of conservative management and injectable orthobiologic strategies in the treatment of OLT. Methods Seventy-five multidisciplinary experts from over 25 countries and 1 territory participated in a structured Delphi-based consensus process. Blinded surveys, structured questionnaires, and in-person discussions were used to develop and refine statements, supported by literature review and graded evidence (A1–E). Consensus strength was defined as consensus (51%-74%), strong consensus (75%-99%), or unanimous (100%) Results In total, 29 consensus statements were achieved across the 3 meetings. Strong agreement was reached regarding indications and expected outcomes of conservative management, including the role of immobilization and appropriate timing for surgical intervention. Orthobiologic injections, including platelet-rich plasma, concentrated bone marrow aspirate, and hyaluronic acid, were considered appropriate in select patients with persistent symptoms, although no superiority was demonstrated among formulations, preparation methods, or injection strategies. When used as adjuncts to surgical procedures, orthobiologics may improve radiological outcomes, with limited evidence for improvement in clinical outcomes. Technical considerations, including preferred harvest sites and a lack of standardized preparation protocols, were identified, along with key principles for patient counseling Conclusion These international consensus statements establish a standardized framework for the conservative management and use of injectable orthobiologic therapies in OLT. By clarifying indications, technical considerations, and current limitations, this work aims to improve consistency in clinical practice, guide treatment decision-making, and inform future research.

Abstract Rationale This Registry was designed to prospectively evaluate the efficacy of extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) to arrest the rate of FEV1 decline (FEV1 decline) and prolong survival in lung allograft recipients with Bronchiolitis Obliterans refractory to standard of care therapy. Methods After IRB approval, 258 lung transplant recipients were enrolled from 20 US lung transplant centers. Subjects were assigned to ECP treatment (ECPRx) (i.e., 24 procedures over 6 months) at or a few months after enrollment based on spirometric criteria. Maintenance ECPRx (mECP) was at the discretion of managing clinicians. Rate of FEV1 decline in mL/month (FEV1 decline) was compared between 6 months prior to and 6 & 12 months after ECPRx initiation using linear mixed effects models. Time 0 for survival was set as the start of ECPRx for generation of Kaplan-Meier curves. Hazard Ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (lower-upper) were generated using Cox Proportional Hazards Regression to characterize significant (p < 0.05) independent associations of mECP and/or any other covariates (i.e., demographic, operative, enrollment site, spirometric ) and survival. Results An 89% (78%-96%) decrease in the FEV1 decline was observed 12 months after ECPRx initiation in 191 participants assigned to ECPRx. FEV1 decline (-164 mL/month: 144-185) was greater (p < 0.001) in participants who expired within six months of Time 0 (n = 28) vs participants (-111 mL/month: 101-120) who died six months after Time 0 (n = 77). Of 159 participants who survived for at least six months after ECPRx initiation, 40 participants without mECP, who had up to 24 ECPRx (ECPRx: n = 19), had a lower survival HR: 2.43(1.75-3.4) (p < 0.001) relative to 119 participants who received mECP (ECPRx: n = 86)(see Figure). The response to ECPRx (% Change in FEV1 decline prior to and 6 months after 1st ECP) was similar between subcohorts (No mECP: -81 decrease vs mECP: -85%, p = 0.3). The association of mECP persisted after multivariate adjustment HR 1.8 (1.8-2.7)(p = 0.002) using significant covariates: FEV1 HR 0.37 (0.3-0.5), FEV1 decline HR 0.001 (0.001-0.04), Male Gender HR 2.4 (1.7-3.4); Reflux Disease HR 1.8 (1.2-2.8); Coronary Disease HR 1.8 (1.2-2.7). Conclusions This analysis indicates that mECP is independently associated with enhanced survival most likely due to attenuation of relapse six months after ECP initiation based on similar initial response to ECPRx. A risk-adjusted, control cohort is being pursued to facilitate submission of a scientifically rigorous petition to CMS to expand the ECP National Coverage Decision to include BOS predicated on CMS 2024 scientific guidelines. This abstract is funded by: Therakos Inc

Background. The spirometric response to standard-of-care (SOC) immunosuppressive therapy for the management of bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS) has been sparsely reported in the literature. Data from a Medicare-approved Registry were analyzed to characterize the effectiveness/durability of a wide range of SOC interventions to manage the decline of lung function and to validate the study spirometric criteria for initiation of rescue therapy. Methods. Lung transplant recipients with refractory BOS at 21 US collaborating centers were enrolled in the Registry. Data included both nonspirometric (eg, demographic, Immunosuppressive Regimens for management of BOS) and spirometric parameters (ie, forced expiratory volume in 1 s [FEV 1 ] measurements and derived indices). The utility of study FEV 1 criteria for treatment (ie, statistically significant rate of FEV 1 decline >30 mL/mo) was evaluated by comparing the spirometric course between participants who met or did not meet this criterion. Results. Only 21% of participants treated with SOC therapy had >50% decrease (76 ± 25% decrease) in the rate of FEV 1 decline. Although 51% of participants had a partial response (rate of FEV 1 decline decreased on average 71%), 49% of participants had a substantial increase (mean increase 224%). The FEV 1 criterion for treatment was able to identify 19% of participants (48/258) who achieved durable stabilization (ie, nonsignificant rate of FEV 1 <30 mL/mo) with SOC therapy. Conclusions. Patients with BOS have a widely variable response to SOC therapy. Our findings support the use of FEV 1 rate of decline to assess response to SOC therapy and to ensure appropriate assignment of participants with refractory BOS to rescue therapy treatment cohorts.

AimsThe aim of this study was to compare the early clinical outcomes of robotically-assisted total knee arthroplasty (RA-TKA) and manual total knee arthroplasty (M-TKA), using daily remote patient monitoring.MethodsWe prospectively enrolled and compared patients who underwent 95 RA-TKAs with those who underwent 114 M-TKAs. All patients used an activity monitor and a patient engagement platform for two weeks preoperatively and 90 days postoperatively to collect daily visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores, opioid consumption (in morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs)), step counts, weekly Oxford Knee Scores (OKSs), and monthly Forgotten Joint Scores (FJS). There were no significant differences between groups in sex or BMI. Patients in the RA-TKA group were significantly younger (mean age 63 vs 65 years; p = 0.006). Independent-samples t-tests, chi-squared tests, and Fisher’s exact tests were used for statistical analysis.ResultsRA-TKA led to significantly decreased pain (mean VAS 3.6 vs 4.2; p = 0.011) and significantly reduced opioid consumption in the first seven days postoperatively (a mean of 10 less MMEs per day; p < 0.001) compared with M-TKA. The RA-TKA group stopped taking opioids six days sooner (mean 24 days vs 30 days; p = 0.041). There were no significant differences in the number of days before stopping the use of walking aids (mean 31 days vs 35 days; p = 0.091). Patients in the RA-TKA group had significantly increased OKSs for the first five weeks (p = 0.013). There were no significant differences in the FJSs at all times or in OKSs beyond five weeks. There were no significant differences in the operating times (p = 0.405), step counts (p = 0.642), or complications (p = 0.222) between the groups.ConclusionThe use of robotic assistance in TKA led to significant improvements in pain, opioid consumption, and OKSs compared with manual instrumentation in the early recovery after primary TKA.Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2025;107-B(10):1054–1063.

BACKGROUND. We developed a prospective, multicenter “registry” to evaluate the effect of extracorporeal photopheresis for lung transplant recipients who develop chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD) with the bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS) phenotype (CLAD/BOS) and who are refractory to conventional standard-of-care therapy. METHODS. Data from 258 lung transplant recipients enrolled in the Registry between April 2015 and April 2022 were included in this analysis. All recorded parameters (eg, demographics), including forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) measurements and indices (FEV1% baseline, FEV1 rate of decline) at several time periods, were included in multivariate linear/logistic and Kaplan-Meier analyses to evaluate potential associations with survival. RESULTS. Mortality at 6 and 12 mo after CLAD/BOS diagnosis was 5% and 14%, whereas mortality at 6 and 12 mo after enrollment was 15% and 26%, respectively. The primary cause of death in the cohort was respiratory failure or graft failure (74%). Rate of FEV1 decline (log) at enrollment was independently associated with survival (log days) from CLAD/BOS diagnosis and enrollment (r = 0.55 and r = 0.3, respectively). The rates of FEV1 decline among survivors were lower (–77 ± 89 mL/mo) compared with nonsurvivors (–148 ± 155 mL/mo) at 6 mo after enrollment (P = 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS. The rate of FEV1 decline quantified using at least 5 FEV1 measurements is a robust surrogate outcome. We plan to use these findings to revise our randomized controlled trial to facilitate risk adjustment using FEV1 rate of decline strata at enrollment and as a scientifically valid surrogate for outcome.

AbstractPeriprosthetic fractures around a total knee arthroplasty (TKA), comminuted and intra-articular femur fractures, or fracture nonunions in osteoporotic bone represent technically challenging problems. This is particularly true when the fracture involves a loose femoral component or the pattern results in suboptimal fixation potential. These clinical indications often arise in an older and comorbid patient population in whom a principal goal of treatment includes allowing for early mobilization. Limited data indicate that arthroplasty via distal femoral replacement (DFR) is a reasonable alternative to open reduction and internal fixation, allowing for early ambulation with low complication rates. We performed a retrospective review of trauma and arthroplasty surgeries at three tertiary referral institutions. Adult patients treated for the above with a DFR were included. Patients with active infection, open and/or high-energy injuries and revisions unrelated to fracture were excluded. Patient demographics, treatment details, and outcomes were assessed. Between 2002 and 2017, 90 DFR's were performed for the above indications with a mean follow-up of 24 months. Postoperatively, 80 patients (88%) were allowed to weight bear as tolerated, and at final follow-up, 9 patients (10%) remained dependent on a wheelchair. The average arc of motion at final follow-up was 95 degrees. There were seven (8%) implant-related complications requiring secondary surgeries: two infections, one with associated component loosening; one fracture of the hinge mechanism and one femoral component failure in conjunction with a patellofemoral dislocation (both requiring revision); one case of patellofemoral arthrosis in a patient with an unresurfaced patella; one periprosthetic fracture with associated wound dehiscence; and one case of arthrofibrosis. In each of these cases, only modular components of the DFR were exchanged. All nonmodular components cemented into the femur or tibia were retained. DFR provides a viable reconstruction option in the treatment of acute distal femur fractures, periprosthetic femur fractures, and fracture nonunions. We noted that in an elderly patient population with high comorbidities, the complication and secondary surgery rates remained relatively low, while allowing for immediate weight bearing.

Study Design. A prospective multicenter investigational device exempt trial is underway evaluating a novel conformable mesh interbody fusion device in subjects undergoing single-level fusion for degenerative disc disease. Patients meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria were offered enrollment. There is no comparative group in this study. Objective. Establish the short and long-term safety and effectiveness of a novel conformable mesh interbody fusion device in subjects undergoing single-level fusion for degenerative disc disease unresponsive to conservative care. Summary of Background Data. Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion remains a critical procedure for patients with degenerative lumbar disc disease. Increasingly minimally invasive techniques have been proposed to minimize muscle dissection and tissue damage with the goal of minimizing pain and length of stay. Methods. One hundred two subjects were enrolled across 10 sites. Ninety nine subjects remained available for follow-up at 12-months. Physical evaluations/imaging were performed serially through 12-months. Validated assessment tools included 100 mm visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) for function, and computerized tomography scan for fusion. Independent committees were used to identify adverse events and for assessment of radiographic fusion. Results. Reductions in low back pain (LBP)/leg pain and improvements in functional status occur early and are maintained through 12-month follow-up. Mean VAS-LBP change from baseline to 6-weeks post-op (–46 mm) continued to improve through 12 months (–51 mm). Similar trends were observed for leg pain. Mean ODI change from baseline to 6 weeks post-op (–17) was almost doubled by 12 months (–32). Fusion rates at 12-months are high (98%). No device-related serious adverse events have occurred. Conclusion. 12-month outcomes demonstrated excellent patient compliance and positive outcomes for pain, function, fusion, and device safety. Clinical improvements were observed by 6-weeks post-op and appear durable up to 1 year later. A novel mesh interbody device may provide an alternative means of interbody fusion that reduces connective tissue disruption. Level of Evidence: 3

OBJECTIVEThe sciatic nerve, particularly its peroneal division, is at risk for injury during total hip arthroplasty (THA), especially when a posterior approach is used. The majority of the morbidity results from the loss of peroneal nerve–innervated muscle function. Approximately one-third of patients recover spontaneously. The objectives of this study were to report the outcomes of distal decompression of the peroneal nerve at the fibular tunnel following sciatic nerve injury secondary to THA and to attempt to identify predictors of a positive surgical outcome.METHODSA retrospective study of all patients who underwent peroneal decompression for the indication of sciatic nerve injury following THA at the Mayo Clinic or Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis was performed. Patients with less than 6 months of postoperative follow-up were excluded. The primary outcome was dorsiflexion strength at latest follow-up. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the ability of the independent variables to predict a good surgical outcome.RESULTSThe total included cohort consisted of 37 patients. The median preoperative dorsiflexion grade at the time of peroneal decompression was 0. Dorsiflexion at latest follow-up was Medical Research Council (MRC) ≥ 3 for 24 (65%) patients. Dorsiflexion recovered to MRC ≥ 4− for 15 (41%) patients. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, motor unit potentials in the tibialis anterior (OR 19.84, 95% CI 2.44–364.05; p = 0.004) and in the peroneus longus (OR 8.68, 95% CI 1.05–135.53; p = 0.04) on preoperative electromyography were significant predictors of a good surgical outcome.CONCLUSIONSAfter performing peroneal nerve decompression at the fibular tunnel, 65% of the patients in this study recovered dorsiflexion strength of MRC ≥ 3 at latest follow-up, potentially representing a significant improvement over the natural history.

Four rating systems were developed by the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society to provide a standard method of reporting clinical status of the ankle and foot. The systems incorporate both subjective and objective factors into numerical scales to describe function, alignment, and pain.