Soft Tissue Procedures and Joint Instability Flashcards
Before surgery, what are the treatment options for soft tissue injuries?
Rest, analgesia, anti-inflammatories
Which tendons are amenable to steroid injections?
Rotator cuff / tennis elbow
In which tendons are steroid injections not advised? Why?
Achilles tendonitis, knee extensor mechanism // There is a risk of tendon rupture
Refractory cases of soft tissue injuries may benefit from which surgeries?
Decompression or debridement
What is the function of debridement for soft tissue injuries?
Remove the diseased tissue
What is the function of decompression for soft tissue injuries?
To make more space
When may a synovectomy be performed?
Extensor tendonitis in RA // Inflammation of the tibialis posterior
What is the function of a synovectomy in an inflamed tibialis posterior?
To prevent tendon rupture
What are some surgical managements for major tendon tears?
Splintage, surgical repair or tendon transfer
If a meniscal tear fails to settle, or patients are still having mechanical symptoms, what surgical management can be used?
Arthroscopic removal/repair
How are most cases of joint instability managed?
Physiotherapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve proprioception
What would be the surgical management of ankle instability?
Ligament tightening/advancement
What would be the surgical management of ACL rupture?
Ligament reconstruction using a tendon graft
What would be the surgical management of shoulder instability?
Soft tissue reattachment
When are bony procedures e.g. fusion, used for joint instability?
In cases of significant ligamentous laxity (e.g. Ehler’s Danlos)
