Abstract
Introduction
Between 2005 and 2010, the number of revision hip arthroplasties rose by 49.1%, and revision knee arthroplasties by 92.1%. This number is predicted to rise by 31% and 332% respectively by 2030.
In March 2014, NHS England invited bids to run a pilot revision network. Nottingham Elective Orthopaedic Service (NEOS) was successful and the East Midlands Specialist Orthopaedic Network (EMSON) runs on a ‘hub-and-spoke’ model.
Patients/Materials & Methods
All patients within the EMSON area requiring revision arthroplasty are discussed at a weekly meeting. The meeting is chaired by a revision hip and knee surgeon and attended by arthroplasty surgeons and an orthopaedic microbiologist. Other specialties are available as required.
EMSON discussions and a proposed management plan are recorded, signed by the Chair and returned as a permanent record in the patient's notes.
Results
To date, 255 arthroplasties in 253 patients have been discussed. 131 have been for revision hip arthroplasties. Two patients had both problematic hip and knee replacements. In 47% of the cases there was a recommendation to change the management plan. Several of these changes have been significant. 4% of cases have been transferred to NUH for revision surgery. In 35% of cases extra loan kit was likely to be required, predominantly in the spoke hospitals.
Discussion
Although we have not seen many patients transferred to NEOS, we have seen a 20% increase in tertiary referrals from the spoke hospitals. Surgeons taking part in EMSON have expressed their satisfaction with the support received from EMSON.
Conclusion
Discussing these complex cases supports revision surgeons in the region and is likely to improve patient care. We note a high number of changes to the management plan and an increase in direct referrals to NEOS. EMSON has been well received and we recommend this approach to other regions.
