American Academy Of Orthopaedic Surgeons 2009 Annual Meeting 'Highlights and H...(on/anmeet/anmt2009/podium/podium.cfm?Pev...),Health

• The Infusion of Local Anesthetics after Shoulder Arthroscopy Can Lead to Devastating Loss

After arthroscopic shoulder surgery, local anesthetics may be infused into the joint for post surgical pain management. This infusion has been associated with chondrolysis of the shoulder, a condition that results in complete loss of cartilage and secondary arthritis. A new study of a large number of previously unreported cases examines the risk factors for chondrolysis. The study found that chondrolysis can complicate a wider range of arthroscopic shoulder surgeries than previously thought and that this complication is not limited to young patients. Chondrolysis can follow the infusion of lidocaine as well as bupivacaine, the only medication previously thought to be involved. Additionally, chondrolysis can occur without the use of radiofrequency within the joint. Surgeons and patients are cautioned about combining shoulder arthroscopy with the post-surgical infusion of local anesthetics due to the possible risk of chondrolysis.

Orthopaedic Biologics Hold Promise

(http://www.aaos.org/education/anmeet/programs/aofas.pdf)

• Symposium Address New Therapies for Bone and Soft Tissue Health

6.2 million bone fractures occur annually in the United States and as many as 10% of these fractures show delayed healing or do not heal completely. Recently research has focused on solving this medical problem through biologically based medications, and a number of exciting technologies tha
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