Combination of microfracture and periostalflap fo

Authors: R Siebold S Lichtenberg P Habermeyer

Publish Date: 2003/04/29

Volume: 11, Issue: 3, Pages: 183-189

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Abstract

Focal fullthickness articular cartilage lesions of the shoulder are less common than those of the lower extremity but are often symptomatic and may progress to degenerative osteoarthritis This prospective study evaluated our clinical results for cartilage repair in five patients with chondral defects localized at the humeral head using a combination of microfracture and periostal flap all by deltoidopectoral approach Mean followup was 258 months range 24–31 and consisted of a clinical examination Constant score examination radiography and magnetic resonance imaging three patients underwent a secondlook arthroscopy an average of 8 months following cartilage repair We found the Constant score significantly improved over the preoperative level from 434 to 818 Pain was reduced significantly to 186 points Radiography and magnetic resonance imaging showed progression of the osteoarthritis in two patients Secondlook arthroscopy revealed a significantly reduced cartilage lesion This is the first report of a combination of microfracture and a periostal flap for repair of focal fullthickness cartilage lesions at the shoulder Shortterm followup clinical results were satisfactory It is essential to address the underlying pathology Results must be reconfirmed in a longterm study

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