Aims. The primary aim of this study was to report the radiological outcomes of patients with a dorsally displaced distal radius fracture who were randomized to a moulded cast or surgical fixation with wires following manipulation and closed reduction of their fracture. The secondary aim was to correlate radiological outcomes with patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in the year following injury. Methods. Participants were recruited as part of DRAFFT2, a UK multicentre clinical trial. Participants were aged 16 years or over with a dorsally displaced distal radius fracture, and were eligible for the trial if they needed a manipulation of their fracture, as recommended by their treating surgeon. Participants were randomly allocated on a 1:1 ratio to moulded cast or Kirschner wires after manipulation of the fracture in the operating theatre. Standard posteroanterior and lateral radiographs were performed in the radiology department of participating centres at the time of the patient’s initial assessment in the emergency department and six weeks postoperatively. Intraoperative fluoroscopic images taken at the time of fracture reduction were also assessed. Results. Patients treated with surgical fixation with wires had less dorsal angulation of the radius versus those treated in a moulded cast at six weeks after manipulation of the fracture; the mean difference of -4.13° was statistically significant (95% confidence interval 5.82 to -2.45). There was no evidence of a difference in radial shortening. However, there was no correlation between these radiological measurements and PROMs at any timepoint in the 12 months post-injury. Conclusion. For patients with a dorsally displaced distal radius fracture treated with a closed manipulation, surgical fixation with wires leads to less dorsal angulation on radiographs at six weeks compared with patients treated in a moulded plaster cast alone. However, the difference in dorsal angulation was small and did not correlate with patient-reported pain and function. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(2):132–138

Aims. Leg length discrepancy (LLD) is a common pre- and postoperative issue in total hip arthroplasty (THA) patients. The conventional technique for measuring LLD has historically been on a non-weightbearing anteroposterior pelvic radiograph; however, this does not capture many potential sources of LLD. The aim of this study was to determine if long-limb EOS radiology can provide a more reproducible and holistic measurement of LLD. Methods. In all, 93 patients who underwent a THA received a standardized preoperative EOS scan, anteroposterior (AP) radiograph, and clinical LLD assessment. Overall, 13 measurements were taken along both anatomical and functional axes and measured twice by an orthopaedic fellow and surgical planning engineer to calculate intraoperator reproducibility and correlations between measurements. Results. Strong correlations were observed for all EOS measurements (r. s. > 0.9). The strongest correlation with AP radiograph (inter-teardrop line) was observed for functional-ASIS-to-floor (functional) (r. s. = 0.57), much weaker than the correlations between EOS measurements. ASIS-to-ankle measurements exhibited a high correlation to other linear measurements and the highest ICC (r. s. = 0.97). Using anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS)-to-ankle, 33% of patients had an absolute LLD of greater than 10 mm, which was statistically different from the inter-teardrop LLD measurement (p < 0.005). Discussion. We found that the conventional measurement of LLD on AP pelvic radiograph does not correlate well with long leg measurements and may not provide a true appreciation of LLD. ASIS-to-ankle demonstrated improved detection of potential LLD than other EOS and radiograph measurements. Full length, functional imaging methods may become the new gold standard to measure LLD. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(12):960–968

Aims. Limited implant survival due to aseptic cup loosening is most commonly responsible for revision total hip arthroplasty (THA). Advances in implant designs and materials have been crucial in addressing those challenges. Vitamin E-infused highly cross-linked polyethylene (VEPE) promises strong wear resistance, high oxidative stability, and superior mechanical strength. Although VEPE monoblock cups have shown good mid-term performance and excellent wear patterns, long-term results remain unclear. This study evaluated migration and wear patterns and clinical and radiological outcomes at a minimum of ten years’ follow-up. Methods. This prospective observational study investigated 101 cases of primary THA over a mean duration of 129 months (120 to 149). At last follow-up, 57 cases with complete clinical and radiological outcomes were evaluated. In all cases, the acetabular component comprised an uncemented titanium particle-coated VEPE monoblock cup. Patients were assessed clinically and radiologically using the Harris Hip Score, visual analogue scale (pain and satisfaction), and an anteroposterior radiograph. Cup migration and polyethylene wear were measured using Einzel-Bild-Röntgen-Analyze software. All complications and associated treatments were documented until final follow-up. Results. Clinical assessment showed persistent major improvement in all scores. On radiological assessment, only one case showed a lucent line (without symptoms). At last follow-up, wear and migration were below the critical thresholds. No cup-related revisions were needed, indicating an outstanding survival rate of 100%. Conclusion. Isoelastic VEPE cups offer high success rates and may prevent osteolysis, aseptic loosening, and the need for revision surgeries in the long term. However, longer follow-up is needed to validate our findings and confirm the advantages offered by this cup. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(10):825–831

Aims. Although the short stem concept in hip arthroplasty procedure shows acceptable clinical performance, we sometimes get unexplainable radiological findings. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate changes of radiological findings up to three years postoperatively, and to assess any potential contributing factors on such radiological change in a Japanese population. Methods. This is a retrospective radiological study conducted in Japan. Radiological assessment was done in accordance with predetermined radiological review protocol. A total of 241 hips were included in the study and 118 hips (49.0%) revealed radiological change from immediately after surgery to one year postoperatively; these 118 hips were eligible for further analyses. Each investigator screened whether either radiolucent lines (RLLs), cortical hypertrophy (CH), or atrophy (AT) appeared or not on the one-year radiograph. Further, three-year radiographs of eligible cases were reviewed to determine changes such as, disappeared (D), improved (I), stable (S), and progression (P). Additionally, bone condensation (BC) was assessed on the three-year radiograph. Results. CH was observed in 49 hips (21.1%), AT was observed in 63 hips (27.2%), and RLLs were observed in 34 hips (14.7%) at one year postoperatively. Among 34 hips with RLLs, 70.6% showed change of either D or I on the three-year radiograph. BC was observed in younger patients more frequently. Conclusion. The Fitmore stem works well in a Japanese population with favourable radiological change on hips with RLLs. Longer-term follow-up is required to determine clinical relevance. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(1):20–28

Aims. To assess the incidence of radiological lateral osteoarthritis (OA) at 15 years after medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) and assess the relationship of lateral OA with symptoms and patient characteristics. Methods. Cemented Phase 3 medial Oxford UKA implanted by two surgeons since 1998 for the recommended indications were prospectively followed. A 15-year cumulative revision rate for lateral OA of 5% for this series was previously reported. A total of 163 unrevised knees with 15-year (SD 1) anterior-posterior knee radiographs were studied. Lateral joint space width (JSW. L. ) was measured and severity of lateral OA was classified as: nil/mild, moderate, and severe. Preoperative and 15-year Oxford Knee Scores (OKS) and American Knee Society Scores were determined. The effect of age, sex, BMI, and intraoperative findings was analyzed. Statistical analysis included one-way analysis of variance and Kruskal-Wallis H test, with significance set at 5%. Results. The mean age was 80.6 years (SD 8.3), with 84 females and 79 males. The mean JSW. L. was 5.6 mm (SD 1.4), and was not significantly related to age, sex, or intraoperative findings. Those with BMI > 40 kg/m. 2. had a smaller JSW. L. than those with a ‘normal’ BMI (p = 0.039). The incidence of severe and moderate lateral OA were both 4.9%. Overall, 2/142 (1.4%) of those with nil/mild lateral OA, 1/8 (13%) with moderate, and 2/8 (25%) with severe subsequently had a revision. Those with severe (mean OKS 35.6 (SD 9.3)) and moderate OA (mean OKS 35.8 (SD 10.5)) tended to have worse outcome scores than those with nil/mild (mean OKS 39.5 (SD 9.2)) but the difference was only significant for OKS-Function (p = 0.044). Conclusion. This study showed that the rate of having severe or moderate radiological lateral OA at 15 years after medial UKA was low (both 4.9%). Although patients with severe or moderate lateral OA had a lower OKS than those with nil/mild OA, their mean scores (OKS 36) would be classified as good. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(3):210–218

Aims. The first metatarsal pronation deformity of hallux valgus feet is widely recognized. However, its assessment relies mostly on 3D standing CT scans. Two radiological signs, the first metatarsal round head (RH) and inferior tuberosity position (ITP), have been described, but are seldom used to aid in diagnosis. This study was undertaken to determine the reliability and validity of these two signs for a more convenient and affordable preoperative assessment and postoperative comparison. Methods. A total of 200 feet were randomly selected from the radiograph archives of a foot and ankle clinic. An anteroposterior view of both feet was taken while standing on the same x-ray platform. The intermetatarsal angle (IMA), metatarsophalangeal angle (MPA), medial sesamoid position, RH, and ITP signs were assessed for statistical analysis. Results. There were 127 feet with an IMA > 9°. Both RH and ITP severities correlated significantly with IMA severity. RH and ITP were also significantly associated with each other, and the pronation deformities of these feet are probably related to extrinsic factors. There were also feet with discrepancies between their RH and ITP severities, possibly due to intrinsic torsion of the first metatarsal. Conclusion. Both RH and ITP are reliable first metatarsal pronation signs correlating to the metatarsus primus varus deformity of hallux valgus feet. They should be used more for preoperative and postoperative assessment. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(11):1037–1040

Aims. Hip dysplasia (HD) leads to premature osteoarthritis. Timely detection and correction of HD has been shown to improve pain, functional status, and hip longevity. Several time-consuming radiological measurements are currently used to confirm HD. An artificial intelligence (AI) software named HIPPO automatically locates anatomical landmarks on anteroposterior pelvis radiographs and performs the needed measurements. The primary aim of this study was to assess the reliability of this tool as compared to multi-reader evaluation in clinically proven cases of adult HD. The secondary aims were to assess the time savings achieved and evaluate inter-reader assessment. Methods. A consecutive preoperative sample of 130 HD patients (256 hips) was used. This cohort included 82.3% females (n = 107) and 17.7% males (n = 23) with median patient age of 28.6 years (interquartile range (IQR) 22.5 to 37.2). Three trained readers’ measurements were compared to AI outputs of lateral centre-edge angle (LCEA), caput-collum-diaphyseal (CCD) angle, pelvic obliquity, Tönnis angle, Sharp’s angle, and femoral head coverage. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and Bland-Altman analyses were obtained. Results. Among 256 hips with AI outputs, all six hip AI measurements were successfully obtained. The AI-reader correlations were generally good (ICC 0.60 to 0.74) to excellent (ICC > 0.75). There was lower agreement for CCD angle measurement. Most widely used measurements for HD diagnosis (LCEA and Tönnis angle) demonstrated good to excellent inter-method reliability (ICC 0.71 to 0.86 and 0.82 to 0.90, respectively). The median reading time for the three readers and AI was 212 (IQR 197 to 230), 131 (IQR 126 to 147), 734 (IQR 690 to 786), and 41 (IQR 38 to 44) seconds, respectively. Conclusion. This study showed that AI-based software demonstrated reliable radiological assessment of patients with HD with significant interpretation-related time savings. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(11):877–884

Aims. Dead-space management, following dead bone resection, is an important element of successful chronic osteomyelitis treatment. This study compared two different biodegradable antibiotic carriers used for dead-space management, and reviewed clinical and radiological outcomes. All cases underwent single-stage surgery and had a minimum one-year follow-up. Methods. A total of 179 patients received preformed calcium sulphate pellets containing 4% tobramycin (Group OT), and 180 patients had an injectable calcium sulphate/nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite ceramic containing gentamicin (Group CG). Outcome measures were infection recurrence, wound leakage, and subsequent fracture involving the treated segment. Bone-void filling was assessed radiologically at a minimum of six months post-surgery. Results. The median follow-up was 4.6 years (interquartile range (IQR) 3.2 to 5.4; range 1.3 to 10.5) in Group OT compared to 4.9 years (IQR 2.1 to 6.0; range 1.0 to 8.3) in Group CG. The groups had similar defect sizes following excision (both mean 10.9 cm. 3. (1 to 30)). Infection recurrence was higher in Group OT (20/179 (11.2%) vs 8/180 (4.4%), p = 0.019) than Group CG, as was early wound leakage (33/179 (18.4%) vs 18/180 (10.0%), p = 0.024) and subsequent fracture (11/179 (6.1%) vs 1.7% (3/180), p = 0.032). Group OT cases had an odds ratio 2.9-times higher of developing any one of these complications, compared to Group CG (95% confidence interval 1.74 to 4.81, p < 0.001). The mean bone-void healing in Group CG was better than in Group OT, in those with ≥ six-month radiological follow-up (73.9% vs 40.0%, p < 0.001). Conclusion. Local antibiotic carrier choice affects outcome in chronic osteomyelitis surgery. A biphasic injectable carrier with a slower dissolution time was associated with better radiological and clinical outcomes compared to a preformed calcium sulphate pellet carrier. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2023;12(7):412–422

Aims. Limb salvage in bone tumour patients replaces the bone with massive segmental prostheses where achieving bone integration at the shoulder of the implant through extracortical bone growth has been shown to prevent loosening. This study investigates the effect of multidrug chemotherapy on extracortical bone growth and early radiological signs of aseptic loosening in patients with massive distal femoral prostheses. Methods. A retrospective radiological analysis was performed on adult patients with distal femoral arthroplasties. In all, 16 patients were included in the chemotherapy group with 18 patients in the non-chemotherapy control group. Annual radiographs were analyzed for three years postoperatively. Dimensions of the bony pedicle, osseointegration of the hydroxyapatite (HA) collar surface, bone resorption at the implant shoulder, and radiolucent line (RLL) formation around the cemented component were analyzed. Results. A greater RLL score (p = 0.041) was observed at three years postoperatively, with those receiving chemotherapy showing greater radiological loosening compared with those not receiving chemotherapy. Chemotherapy patients experience osteolysis at the shoulder of the ingrowth collar over time (p < 0.001) compared with non-chemotherapy patients where osteolysis was not observed. A greater median percentage integration of the collar surface was observed in the non-chemotherapy group (8.6%, interquartile range (IQR) 0.0% to 37.9%; p = 0.021) at three years. Bone growth around the collar was observed in both groups, and no statistical difference in amount of extracortical bony bridging was seen. Conclusion. Multidrug chemotherapy affects the osseointegration of ingrowth collars and accelerates signs of radiological loosening. This may increase the risk of aseptic loosening in patients with massive segmental implants used to treat bone cancer. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2020;9(7):333–340

Aims. The diversity of femoral morphology renders femoral component sizing in total hip arthroplasty (THA) challenging. We aimed to determine whether femoral morphology and femoral component filling influence early clinical and radiological outcomes following THA using fully hydroxyapatite (HA)-coated femoral components. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed records of 183 primary uncemented THAs. Femoral morphology, including Dorr classification, canal bone ratio (CBR), canal flare index (CFI), and canal-calcar ratio (CCR), were calculated on preoperative radiographs. The canal fill ratio (CFR) was calculated at different levels relative to the lesser trochanter (LT) using immediate postoperative radiographs: P1, 2 cm above LT; P2, at LT; P3, 2 cm below LT; and D1, 7 cm below LT. At two years, radiological femoral component osseointegration was evaluated using the Engh score, and hip function using the Postel Merle d’Aubigné (PMA) and Oxford Hip Score (OHS). Results. CFR was moderately correlated with CCR at P1 (r = 0.44; p < 0.001), P2 (r = 0.53; p < 0.001), and CFI at P1 (r = − 0.56; p < 0.001). Absence of spot welds (n = 3, 2%) was associated with lower CCR (p = 0.049), greater CFI (p = 0.017), and lower CFR at P3 (p = 0.015). Migration (n = 9, 7%) was associated with lower CFR at P2 (p = 0.028) and P3 (p = 0.007). Varus malalignment (n = 7, 5%), predominantly in Dorr A femurs (p = 0.028), was associated with lower CFR at all levels (p < 0.05). Absence of spot welds was associated with lower PMA gait (p = 0.012) and migration with worse OHS (p = 0.032). Conclusion. This study revealed that femurs with insufficient proximal filling tend to have less favourable radiological outcomes following uncemented THA using a fully HA-coated double-tapered femoral component. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res. 2020;9(4):182–191

Aims

This systematic review aims to identify 3D predictors derived from biplanar reconstruction, and to describe current methods for improving curve prediction in patients with mild adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

Objectives

Overlap between the distal tibia and fibula has always been quoted to be positive. If the value is not positive then an injury to the syndesmosis is thought to exist. Our null hypothesis is that it is a normal variant in the adult population.

Aims. Accurate identification of the ankle joint centre is critical for estimating tibial coronal alignment in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The purpose of the current study was to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to determine the accuracy and effect of using different radiological anatomical landmarks to quantify mechanical alignment in relation to a traditionally defined radiological ankle centre. Methods. Patients with full-limb radiographs from the Osteoarthritis Initiative were included. A sub-cohort of 250 radiographs were annotated for landmarks relevant to knee alignment and used to train a deep learning (U-Net) workflow for angle calculation on the entire database. The radiological ankle centre was defined as the midpoint of the superior talus edge/tibial plafond. Knee alignment (hip-knee-ankle angle) was compared against 1) midpoint of the most prominent malleoli points, 2) midpoint of the soft-tissue overlying malleoli, and 3) midpoint of the soft-tissue sulcus above the malleoli. Results. A total of 932 bilateral full-limb radiographs (1,864 knees) were measured at a rate of 20.63 seconds/image. The knee alignment using the radiological ankle centre was accurate against ground truth radiologist measurements (inter-class correlation coefficient (ICC) = 0.99 (0.98 to 0.99)). Compared to the radiological ankle centre, the mean midpoint of the malleoli was 2.3 mm (SD 1.3) lateral and 5.2 mm (SD 2.4) distal, shifting alignment by 0.34. o. (SD 2.4. o. ) valgus, whereas the midpoint of the soft-tissue sulcus was 4.69 mm (SD 3.55) lateral and 32.4 mm (SD 12.4) proximal, shifting alignment by 0.65. o. (SD 0.55. o. ) valgus. On the intermalleolar line, measuring a point at 46% (SD 2%) of the intermalleolar width from the medial malleoli (2.38 mm medial adjustment from midpoint) resulted in knee alignment identical to using the radiological ankle centre. Conclusion. The current study leveraged AI to create a consistent and objective model that can estimate patient-specific adjustments necessary for optimal landmark usage in extramedullary and computer-guided navigation for tibial coronal alignment to match radiological planning. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(10):767–776

Aims. Hip disease is common in children with cerebral palsy (CP) and can decrease quality of life and function. Surveillance programmes exist to improve outcomes by treating hip disease at an early stage using radiological surveillance. However, studies and surveillance programmes report different radiological outcomes, making it difficult to compare. We aimed to identify the most important radiological measurements and develop a core measurement set (CMS) for clinical practice, research, and surveillance programmes. Methods. A systematic review identified a list of measurements previously used in studies reporting radiological hip outcomes in children with CP. These measurements informed a two-round Delphi study, conducted among orthopaedic surgeons and specialist physiotherapists. Participants rated each measurement on a nine-point Likert scale (‘not important’ to ‘critically important’). A consensus meeting was held to finalize the CMS. Results. Overall, 14 distinct measurements were identified in the systematic review, with Reimer’s migration percentage being the most frequently reported. These measurements were presented over the two rounds of the Delphi process, along with two additional measurements that were suggested by participants. Ultimately, two measurements, Reimer’s migration percentage and femoral head-shaft angle, were included in the CMS. Conclusion. This use of a minimum standardized set of measurements has the potential to encourage uniformity across hip surveillance programmes, and may streamline the development of tools, such as artificial intelligence systems to automate the analysis in surveillance programmes. This core set should be the minimum requirement in clinical studies, allowing clinicians to add to this as needed, which will facilitate comparisons to be drawn between studies and future meta-analyses. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(11):825–831

Aims. Posterior column plating through the single anterior approach reduces the morbidity in acetabular fractures that require stabilization of both the columns. The aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness of posterior column plating through the anterior intrapelvic approach (AIP) in the management of acetabular fractures. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed the data from R G Kar Medical College, Kolkata, India, from June 2018 to April 2023. Overall, there were 34 acetabulum fractures involving both columns managed by medial buttress plating of posterior column. The posterior column of the acetabular fracture was fixed through the AIP approach with buttress plate on medial surface of posterior column. Mean follow-up was 25 months (13 to 58). Accuracy of reduction and effectiveness of this technique were measured by assessing the Merle d’Aubigné score and Matta’s radiological grading at one year and at latest follow-up. Results. Immediate postoperative radiological Matta’s reduction accuracy showed anatomical reduction (0 to 1 mm) in 23 cases (67.6%), satisfactory (2 to 3 mm) in nine (26.4%), and unsatisfactory (> 3 mm) in two (6%). Merle d’Aubigné score at the end of one year was calculated to be excellent in 18 cases (52.9%), good in 11 (32.3%), fair in three (8.8%), and poor in two (5.9%). Matta’s radiological grading at the end of one year was calculated to be excellent in 16 cases (47%), good in nine (26.4%), six in fair (17.6%), and three in poor (8.8%). Merle d’Aubigné score at latest follow-up deteriorated by one point in some cases, but the grading remained the same; Matta’s radiological grading at latest follow-up also remained unchanged. Conclusion. Stabilization of posterior column through AIP by medial surface plate along the sciatic notch gives good stability to posterior column, and at the same time can avoid morbidity of the additional lateral window. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(2):147–153

Aims. United Classification System (UCS) B2 and B3 periprosthetic fractures in total hip arthroplasties (THAs) have been commonly managed with modular tapered stems. No study has evaluated the use of monoblock fluted tapered titanium stems for this indication. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a monoblock stems on implant survivorship, postoperative outcomes, radiological outcomes, and osseointegration following treatment of THA UCS B2 and B3 periprosthetic fractures. Methods. A retrospective review was conducted of all patients who underwent revision THA (rTHA) for periprosthetic UCS B2 and B3 periprosthetic fracture who received a single design monoblock fluted tapered titanium stem at two large, tertiary care, academic hospitals. A total of 72 patients met inclusion and exclusion criteria (68 UCS B2, and four UCS B3 fractures). Primary outcomes of interest were radiological stem subsidence (> 5 mm), radiological osseointegration, and fracture union. Sub-analysis was also done for 46 patients with minimum one-year follow-up. Results. For the total cohort, stem osseointegration, fracture union, and stem subsidence were 98.6%, 98.6%, and 6.9%, respectively, at latest follow-up (mean follow-up 27.0 months (SD 22.4)). For patients with minimum one-year of follow-up, stem osseointegration, fracture union, and stem subsidence were 97.8%, 97.8%, and 6.5%, respectively. Conclusion. Monoblock fluted stems can be an acceptable modality for the management of UCS B2 periprosthetic fractures in rTHAs due to high rates of stem osseointegration and survival, and the low rates of stem subsidence, and revision. Further research on the use of this stem for UCS B3 periprosthetic fractures is warranted to determine if the same conclusion can be made for this fracture pattern. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(8):551–558

Aims. Robotic-assisted unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (R-UKA) has been proposed as an approach to improve the results of the conventional manual UKA (C-UKA). The aim of this meta-analysis was to analyze the studies comparing R-UKA and C-UKA in terms of clinical outcomes, radiological results, operating time, complications, and revisions. Methods. The literature search was conducted on three databases (PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science) on 20 February 2024 according to the guidelines for Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). Inclusion criteria were comparative studies, written in the English language, with no time limitations, on the comparison of R-UKA and C-UKA. The quality of each article was assessed using the Downs and Black Checklist for Measuring Quality. Results. Among the 3,669 articles retrieved, 21 studies on 19 series of patients were included. A total of 3,074 patients (59.5% female and 40.5% male; mean age 65.2 years (SD 3.9); mean BMI 27.4 kg/m. 2. (SD 2.2)) were analyzed. R-UKA obtained a superior Knee Society Score improvement compared to C-UKA (mean difference (MD) 4.9; p < 0.001) and better Forgotten Joint Score postoperative values (MD 5.5; p = 0.032). The analysis of radiological outcomes did not find a statistically significant difference between the two approaches. R-UKA showed longer operating time (MD 15.6; p < 0.001), but reduced complication and revision rates compared to C-UKA (5.2% vs 10.1% and 4.1% vs 7.2%, respectively). Conclusion. This meta-analysis showed that the robotic approach for UKA provided a significant improvement in functional outcomes compared to the conventional manual technique. R-UKA showed similar radiological results and longer operating time, but reduced complication and revision rates compared to C-UKA. Overall, R-UKA seems to provide relevant benefits over C-UKA in the management of patients undergoing UKA. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(5):374–384

Aims. The primary aim of this study is to assess the survival of the uncemented hydroxyapatite (HA) coated Trident II acetabular component as part of a hybrid total hip arthroplasty (THA) using a cemented Exeter stem. The secondary aims are to assess the complications, joint-specific function, health-related quality of life, and radiological signs of loosening of the acetabular component. Methods. A single-centre, prospective cohort study of 125 implants will be undertaken. Patients undergoing hybrid THA at the study centre will be recruited. Inclusion criteria are patients suitable for the use of the uncemented acetabular component, aged 18 to 75 years, willing and able to comply with the study protocol, and provide informed consent. Exclusion criteria includes patients not meeting study inclusion criteria, inadequate bone stock to support fixation of the prosthesis, a BMI > 40 kg/m. 2. , or THA performed for pain relief in those with severely restricted mobility. Results. Implant survival, complications, functional outcomes and radiological assessment up to ten years following index THA (one, two, five, seven, and ten years) will be performed. Functional assessment will include the Oxford Hip Score, Forgotten Joint Score, 12-Item Short Form Health Survey, EuroQol five-dimension health questionnaire, and pain and patient satisfaction. Radiological assessment with assess for acetabula lucent lines, lysis, and loosening according to DeLee and Charnley zones. Conclusion. This study is part of a stepwise introduction of a new device to orthopaedic practice, and careful monitoring of implants should be carried out as part of the Beyond Compliance principles. The results of this study will provide functional, radiological, and survival data to either support the ongoing use of the HA acetabulum or highlight potential limitations of this new implant before wide adoption. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(10):782–790

Aims. The rationale for exacting restoration of skeletal anatomy after unstable ankle fracture is to improve outcomes by reducing complications from malunion; however, current definitions of malunion lack confirmatory clinical evidence. Methods. Radiological (absolute radiological measurements aided by computer software) and clinical (clinical interpretation of radiographs) definitions of malunion were compared within the Ankle Injury Management (AIM) trial cohort, including people aged ≥ 60 years with an unstable ankle fracture. Linear regressions were used to explore the relationship between radiological malunion (RM) at six months and changes in function at three years. Function was assessed with the Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS), with a minimal clinically important difference set as six points, as per the AIM trial. Piecewise linear models were used to investigate new radiological thresholds which better explain symptom impact on ankle function. Results. Previously described measures of RM and surgeon opinion of clinically significant malunion (CSM) were shown to be related but with important differences. CSM was more strongly related to outcome (-13.9 points on the OMAS; 95% confidence interval (CI) -21.9 to -5.4) than RM (-5.5 points; 95% CI -9.8 to -1.2). Existing malunion thresholds for talar tilt and tibiofibular clear space were shown to be slightly conservative; new thresholds which better explain function were identified (talar tilt > 2.4°; tibiofibular clear space > 6 mm). Based on this new definition the presence of RM had an impact on function, which was statistically significant, but the clinical significance was uncertain (-9.1 points; 95% CI -13.8 to -4.4). In subsequent analysis, RM of a posterior malleolar fracture was shown to have a statistically significant impact on OMAS change scores, but the clinical significance was uncertain (-11.6 points; 95% CI -21.9 to -0.6). Conclusion. These results provide clinical evidence which supports the previously accepted definitions. Further research to investigate more conservative clinical thresholds for malunion is indicated. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(10):841–849

Aims. Pain is the most frequent complaint associated with osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH), but the factors contributing to such pain are poorly understood. This study explored diverse demographic, clinical, radiological, psychological, and neurophysiological factors for their potential contribution to pain in patients with ONFH. Methods. This cross-sectional study was carried out according to the “STrengthening the Reporting of OBservational studies in Epidemiology” statement. Data on 19 variables were collected at a single timepoint from 250 patients with ONFH who were treated at our medical centre between July and December 2023 using validated instruments or, in the case of hip pain, a numerical rating scale. Factors associated with pain severity were identified using hierarchical multifactor linear regression. Results. Regression identified the following characteristics as independently associated with higher pain score, after adjustment for potential confounders: Association Research Circulation Osseous classification stage IIIa or IIIb, bone marrow oedema, grade 3 joint effusion, as well as higher scores on pain catastrophizing, anxiety, and central sensitization. The final model explained 69.7% of observed variance in pain scores, of which clinical and radiological factors explained 37%, while psychological and neurophysiological factors explained 24% and demographic factors explained 8.7%. Conclusion. Multidimensional characteristics jointly contribute to the severity of pain associated with ONFH. These findings highlight the need to comprehensively identify potential contributors to pain, and to personalize management and treatment accordingly. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2024;13(11):673–681