The American journal of sports medicine
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Ankle sprain is an extremely common injury in soccer players. Despite extensive research, the intrinsic cause of this injury under noncontact conditions remains unclear. ⋯ Functional strength asymmetries of the ankle flexors and increased body mass index and body weight raise the propensity for ankle sprains in professional soccer players. Age and asymmetries in ankle laxity are potential factors worth revisiting, as there was an indication for younger players and players with ankle instability to be at higher risk for ankle injury. Proper preseason evaluation may improve prevention strategies for this type of injury in soccer.
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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most commonly used imaging modality to assess the rotator cuff. Currently, there are a limited number of studies assessing the interobserver and intraobserver reliability of MRI after rotator cuff repair. ⋯ The results of this study indicate that there is substantial variability when evaluating MRI scans after rotator cuff repair. Intact rotator cuff repairs or full-thickness retears can be identified with moderate reliability. These findings indicate that additional imaging modalities may be needed for accurate assessment of the repaired rotator cuff.
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Currently, osteochondral allografts (OCA) are typically used after 4°C storage for prolonged durations (15-43 days), which compromises chondrocyte viability, especially at the articular surface. The long-term in vivo performance of these fresh-stored allografts, in association with variable cellularity, is unknown. ⋯ Normal chondrocyte density in vivo, especially in the superficial region of cartilage, is important for maintaining long-term cartilage function and matrix content. In human cartilage, containing cells at ~3 to 5 times lower density than goat, repair outcomes may be related to absolute minimum number of cells rather than density.
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Autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) is an accepted treatment option for selected condylar cartilage defects in the knee. Results for patellofemoral chondral defects have been less favorable. ⋯ Characterized chondrocyte implantation resulted in statistically significant and clinically relevant improvement over time. These results add to the evidence demonstrating that ACI is a valuable cartilage repair technique for patellofemoral lesions.