Aim

To determine mortality and outcomes of patients diagnosed with fracture-related infections (FRIs).

The purpose of this study was to develop a quality appraisal tool for the assessment of laboratory basic science biomechanical studies.

Materials andScore development comprised of the following phases: item identification/development, item reduction, content/face/criterion validity, weighting, test-retest reliability and internal consistency. For item identification/development, the panel was asked to independently list criteria and factors they considered important for cadaver study and generate items that should be used to appraise cadaver study quality. For content validity, the content validity ratio (CVR) was calculated. The minimum accepted content validity index (CVI) was set to 0.85. For weighting, equal weight for each item was 6.7% [15 items]. Based on these figures the panel was asked to either upscale or downscale the weight for each item ensuring that the final sum for all items was 100%. Face validity was assessed by each panel member using a Likert scale from 1–7. Strong face validity was defined as a mean score of >5. Test-retest reliability was assessed using 10 randomly selected studies. Criterion validity was assessed using the QUACS scale as standard. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's alpha.

Five items reached a CVI of 1 and 10 items a CVI of 0.875. For weighting five items reached a final weight of 10% and ten items 5%. The mean score for face validity was 5.6. Test-retest reliability ranged from 0.78–1.00 with 9 items reaching a perfect score. Criterion validity was 0.76 and considered to be strong. Cronbach's alpha was calculated to be 0.71 indicating acceptable internal consistency.

The new proposed quality score for basic science studies consists of 15 items and has been shown to be reliable, valid and of acceptable internal consistency. It is suggested that this score should be utilised when assessing basic science studies.

This study aimed to examine the changing trends in the reasons for total hip replacement (THR) revision surgery, in one country over a twenty-one year period, in order to assess whether changes in arthroplasty practices have impacted revision patterns and whether an awareness of these changes can be used to guide clinical practice and reduce future revision rates.

The reason for revision THR performed between January 1999 and December 2019 was extracted from the New Zealand Joint Registry (NZJR). The results were then grouped into seven 3-year periods to allow for clearer visualization of trends. The reasons were compared across the seven time periods and trends in prosthesis use, patient age, gender, BMI and ASA grade were also reviewed. We compared the reasons for early revision, within one year, with the overall revision rates.

There were 20,740 revision THR registered of which 7665 were revisions of hips with the index procedure registered during the 21 year period. There has been a statistically significant increase in both femoral fracture (4.1 – 14.9%, p<0.001) and pain (8.1 – 14.9%, p<0.001) as a reason for hip revision. While dislocation has significantly decreased from 57.6% to 17.1% (p<0.001). Deep infection decreased over the first 15 years but has subsequently seen further increases over the last 6 years. Conversely both femoral and acetabular loosening increased over the first 12 years but have subsequently decreased over the last 9 years. The rate of early revisions rose from 0.86% to 1.30% of all revision procedures, with a significant rise in revision for deep infection (13-33% of all causes, p<0.001) and femoral fracture (4-18%, p<0.001), whereas revision for dislocation decreased (59-30%, p<0.001). Adjusting for age and gender femoral fracture and deep infection rates remained significant for both (p<0.05). Adjusting for age, gender and ASA was only significant for infection.

The most troubling finding was the increased rate of deep infection in revision THR, with no obvious linked pattern, whereas, the reduction in revision for dislocation, aseptic femoral and acetabular loosening can be linked to the changing patterns of the use of larger femoral heads and improved bearing surfaces.

Fractures of the ankle are common, and they mostly affect young adults. Wound complications are not uncommon following the fixation of these fractures. This study evaluated the impact of HIV on wound healing after plate osteosynthesis in patients with closed ankle fractures.

This is an observational retrospective study of patients operated on at a tertiary level hospital. We reviewed hospital records for patients above 18 years of age who presented with wound breakdown following ankle open reduction and internal fixation. The patients’ hospital records were retrieved to identify all the patients treated for closed ankle fractures and those who developed wound breakdown. Patients with Pilon fractures were excluded. The National Health Laboratory System (NHLS) database was accessed to retrieve the CD4 count, viral load, haematology study results, and biochemistry results of these patients at the time of surgery and subsequent follow-up. The x-rays were retrieved from the electronic picture archiving system (PACS) and were assessed for fracture union at a minimum of 3 months follow-up.

We reviewed the medical records of 172 patients with closed ankle fractures treated from 2018 to 2022. Thirty-one (18.0%) developed wound breakdown after surgery, and they were all tested for HIV. Most of the patients were male (58.0%), and the average age of the cohort was 43.7 years (range: 21 years to 84 years). Ten of these patients (32.2%) were confirmed HIV positive, with CD4 counts ranging from 155 to 781. Viral load levels were lower than detectable in 40% of these patients. All patients progressed to fracture union at a minimum of 3 months follow-up.

We observed no difference between HIV-positive and HIV-negative patients in terms of wound breakdown and bone healing post-plate osteosynthesis for closed ankle fractures.

Distal femur fractures (DFF) are common, especially in the elderly and high energy trauma patients. Lateral locked osteosynthesis constructs have been widely used, however non-union and implant failures are not uncommon. Recent literature advocates for the liberal use of supplemental medial plating to augment lateral locked constructs. However, there is a lack of proprietary medial plate options, with some authors supporting the use of repurposing expensive anatomic pre-contoured plates. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of a readily available cost-effective medial implant option.

A retrospective analysis from January 2014 to June 2022 was performed on DFF (primary or revision) managed with supplemental medial plating with a Large Fragment Locking Compression Plate (LCP) T-Plate (~$240 AUD) via a medial sub-vastus approach. The T-plate was contoured and placed superior to the medial condyle. A combination of 4.5mm cortical, 5mm locking and/or 6.5mm cancellous screws were used, with oblique screw trajectories towards the distal lateral cortex of the lateral condyle. All extra-articular fractures and revision fixation cases were allowed to weight bear immediately. The primary outcome was union rate.

This technique was utilised on sixteen patients; 3 acute, 13 revisions; mean age 52 years (range 16-85), 81% male, 5 open fractures. The union rate was 100%, with a median time to union of 29 weeks (IQR 18-46). The mean follow-up was 15 months. There were two complications: a deep infection requiring two debridements and a prominent screw requiring removal. The mean range of motion was 1–108^o.

Supplemental medial plating of DFF with a Large Fragment LCP T-Plate is a feasible, safe, and economical option for both acute fixation and revisions. Further validation on a larger scale is warranted, along with considerations to developing a specific implant in line with these principles.

Aim

There are no studies in literature that analyze the effectiveness of closed-incisional negative pressure wound therapy (ciNPWT) in the treatment of bone and joint infections (BJI). The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and the safety of the application of ciNPWT in the postsurgical wound management of patients with osteoarticular infections.

To determine whether pre-operative cessation of anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication is necessary for patients undergoing total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) or reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA).

A prospectively maintained database was used to identify 213 consecutive patients treated with TSA or RTSA performed by a single surgeon across 3 centres. This cohort included 24 patients on an anticoagulant agent (warfarin, apixaban, rivaroxaban, dabigatran), 52 patients on an antiplatelet agent (aspirin, clopidogrel), and a control group of 137 patients not on anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication. Patients on anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications continued these agents peri-operatively. Outcomes included haemoglobin drop, intra-operative blood loss, operative time, transfusion requirements and post-operative complications.

The mean age of the cohort was 74.3 years (range 47 – 93) and 75 (35.2%) of the patients were male. TSA was performed in 63 cases and RTSA in 150 cases. The mean haemoglobin drop in the control group was 17.3 g/L, compared to 19.3 g/L in the anticoagulant group (p = 0.20) and 15.6 g/L in the anti-platelet group (p = 0.14). The mean intra-operative blood loss in the control group was 107.8 mL, compared to 143.0 mL in the anticoagulant group (p = 0.03) and 134.3 mL in the anti-platelet group (0.02). The mean operative time in the control group was 49.3 minutes, compared to 47.1 minutes in the anticoagulant group (p = 0.56) and 50.3 minutes in the anti-platelet group (p = 0.78). Post-operatively no patients developed a wound infection or haematoma requiring intervention. Three patients not on anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication developed pulmonary embolism.

Continuing anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication was associated with higher intra-operative blood loss, but produced no statistically significant differences in haemoglobin drop, operative time, transfusion requirements or post-operative complications. We now do not routinely stop any anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication for patients undergoing total shoulder arthroplasty.

Failure of cephalomedullary fixation for proximal femur fractures is an uncommon event associated with significant morbidity to the patient and cost to the healthcare system. This institution changed nailing system from the PFNA (DePuy Synthes) to InterTan (Smith and Nephew) in February 2020. To assess for non-inferiority, a retrospective review was performed on 247 patients treated for unstable proximal femur fractures (AO 31 A2; A3).

Patients were identified through manual review of fluoroscopic images. Stable fracture patterns were excluded (AO 31 A1). Pre/post operative imaging, demographic data, operative time and ASA scores assessed. Internal/external imaging and national joint registry data were reviewed for follow up.

No significant difference was found in overall failure rate of PFNA vs InterTan (4.84% vs 3.23%; p = 0.748). Overall, short nails were more likely to fail by cut-out than long nails (7.5% vs 1.2%; p = 0.015). Nails which failed by varus cut-out had a higher tip/apex distance (TAD) (26.2mm vs 17.0mm; p < 0.001). Of concern, varus cut-out occurred in two InterTan nails with TAD of <25mm. The PFNA enjoyed a shorter operative time for both the short (59.1 vs 71.8 mins; p = 0.022) and long nails (98.8 vs 114.3 mins; p = 0.016) with no difference in 120-day survival rate.

Overall failure rates of the PFNA and InterTan nailing systems were comparable. However, the failure rate of short nails in this study is concerning. Using long nails with a lag screw design for unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures may reduce failure rates. Cumulative frequency analysis suggests stringent tip-apex distances of less than 21mm may reduce failure rates in lag-screw design cephulomedullary nails. This dataset suggests that unstable intertrochanteric fractures may be more reliably managed with a long cephalomedullary device.

Obesity is a common in individuals undergoing arthroplasty, and the potential for weight loss with improved mobility may be expected by some. The aim of this study was 1. determine the proportion that achieved weight loss after hip or knee arthroplasty, and 2. examine the effect of obesity on patient reported outcomes (PROMS) and satisfaction with surgery.

Participants underwent primary TKA or THA between July 2015 and December 2020 and consented to participation in a research database with baseline PROMS, including weight, BMI, Oxford Knee, or Hip Score, and EQ5D. Participants repeated PROMS at 12 months after surgery with additional questions regarding satisfaction with surgery.

3449 patients completed PROMS 1 year after arthroplasty with weight and BMI. There were 1810 THA and 1639 TKA procedures. The mean baseline BMI was higher in TKA (29.8, SD 5.2) compared to THA (27.7, SD 5.0), p=0.001. A higher proportion of TKA were classified as obese class 1 (29% TKA, 19% THA), obese class 2 (11% TKA and 6% THA), and obese class 3 (5% TKA and 2% THA), p=0.001. The mean weight loss after 1 year was 0.4kg and 0.9kg in obese THA subjects and TKA subjects respectively. In the obese >5kg weight loss was achieved in 13% of TKA and 7% of THA (p=0.001). Obese experienced equivalent improvement in Oxford scores, compared to non-obese subjects. Satisfaction with surgery was reported by 95% of THA and 91% of TKA subjects with no significant differences between BMI group grades (p=0.491 THA and p=0.473 TKA).

Preoperative obesity was observed in 44% of TKA and 27% of THA subjects. In the obese only 1 in 10 subjects lost 5kg or more over 12 months. Obese patients experienced equivalent improvements in outcome after arthroplasty and rates of satisfaction with surgery to the non-obese.

ZrN-multilayer coating is clinically well established in total knee arthroplasty [1–3] and has demonstrated significant reduction in polyethylene wear and metal ion release [4,5].

The goal of our study was to analyze the biotribological behaviour of the ZrN-multilayer coating on a polished cobalt-chromium cemented hip stem.

CoCr28Mo6 alloy hip stems with ZrN-multilayer coating (CoreHip®AS) were tested versus an un-coated version. In a worst-case-scenario the stems with ceramic heads have been tested in bovine serum in a severe cement interface debonding condition under a cyclic load of 3,875 N for 15 million cycles. After 1, 3, 5, 10 & 15 million cycles the surface texture was analysed by scanning-electron-microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive x-ray (EDX). Metal ion concentration of Co,Cr,Mo was measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) after each test interval.

Based on SEM/EDX analysis, it has been demonstrated that the ZrN-multilayer coating keeps his integrity over 15 million cycles of severe stem cemented interface debonding without any exposure of the CoCr28Mo6 substrate.

The ZrN-multilayer coated polished cobalt-chromium cemented hip stem has shown a reduction of Co & Cr metal ion release by two orders of a magnitude, even under severe stem debonding and high interface micro-motion conditions.

ZrN-multilayer coating on polished cobalt-chromium cemented hip stems might be a suitable option for further minimisation of Co & Cr metal ion release in total hip arthroplasty. Clinical evidence has to be proven during the next years.

Contemporary indications for unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR) include bone on bone radiographic changes in the medial compartment with relatively preserved lateral and patellofemoral compartments. The role of MRI in identifying candidates for UKR is commonplace. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between radiographic and MRI pre-operative grade and outcome following UKR.

A retrospective analysis of medial UKR patients from 2017 to 2021. Inclusion criteria were medial UKR for osteoarthritis with pre-operative and post-operative Oxford Knee Scores (OKS), pre-operative radiographs and MRI.

89 patients were included. Whilst all patients had grade 4 ICRS scores on MRI, 36/89 patients had grade 3 KL radiographic scores in the medial compartment, 50/89 had grade 4 KL scores on the medial compartment. Grade 3 KL with grade 4 IRCS medial compartment patients had a mean OKS change of 17.22 (Sd 9.190) meanwhile Grade 4 KL had a mean change of 17.54 (SD 9.001), with no statistical difference in the OKS change score following UKR between these two groups (p=0.873). Medial bone oedema was present in all but one patient. Whilst lateral compartment MRI ICRS scores ranged from 1 to 4 there was no association with MRI score of the lateral compartment and subsequent change in oxford score (P value 0.458). Patellofemoral Compartment (PFC) MRI ICRS ranged from 0 to 4. There was no association between PFC ICRS score and subsequent change in oxford knee score (P value .276)

Radiographs may under report severity of some medial sided knee osteoarthritis. We conclude that in patients with grade 3 KL score that would normally not be considered for UKR, pre-operative MRI might identify grade 4 ICRS scores and this subset of patients have equivalent outcomes to patients with radiographic Grade 4 KL medial compartment osteoarthritis.

Introduction

With advances in mobile application, digital health is being increasingly used for remote and personalised care. Patient education, self-management and tele communication is a crucial factor in optimising outcomes.

BACKGROUND

Theatre-listed trauma patients routinely require two ‘group and save’ blood-bank samples, in case they need perioperative transfusion. The Welsh Blood Service (WBS) need patients to have one recorded sample from any time in the last 10 years. A second sample, to permit cross-matching and blood issuing, must be within 7 days of transfusion (or within 48 hours if the patient is pregnant, or has been transfused within the last 3 months). The approximate cost of processing a sample is £15.00.

Aims

We studied the outcomes following arthroscopic primary repair of bucket handle meniscus tears to determine the incidence of re-tears and the functional outcomes of these patients.

Introduction

Perception of ACL injury prevention programs amongst professional netball players and coaches has not been studied. We investigated (1) level of awareness and experience of ACL injury prevention programs; (2) use of ACL injury prevention programs; and (3) barriers to implementing ACL injury prevention program in netball.

Introduction

Knee arthrodesis is a useful limb salvage technique to maintain function in patients with complex and infected total knee arthroplasties (TKA). There are a number of commonly used external fixators, but no consensus on which of these are optimal.

The aim of this study was to synthesise the current literature to guide clinical decision making and improve patient outcomes. We systematically review the literature to compare outcomes of external fixators in arthrodesis following infected TKA.

Introduction

Knee dislocations, vascular injuries and floating knee injuries can be initially managed by a external fixator. Fixator design constructs include the AO pattern and the Diamond pattern. However, these traditional constructs do not adhere to basic principles of external fixation. The Manchester pattern knee-spanning external fixator is a new construct pattern, which uses beam loading and multiplanar fixation. There is no data on any construct pattern. This study compares the stability of these designs.

Introduction

Ilizarov fixators are reliant on tensioned fine wires for stability. The tension in the wires is generated using specific tensioning devices. Loss of wire tension over time may lead of loss a stability and complications. A series of in vitro experiments were undertaken to explore wire tensioner accuracy, the impact of fixation bolt torque and initial tension on loss of tension in ilizarov constructs under static and dynamic loads.

Introduction

There are concerns that patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) currently used for adults requiring, undergoing or after undergoing lower limb reconstruction (LLR) are not adequately capturing the range of experiences important to these patients. The ‘Patient-Reported Outcome Measure for Lower Limb Reconstruction’ (PROLLIT) study developed a conceptual framework of outcomes identified as important and relevant by adult LLR patients. This review explored whether existing PROMs address these outcomes, and exhibit content validity in this population.

Introduction

Continuous compression implants (CCIs) are small memory alloy bone staples that can provide continuous compression across a fracture site, which change shape due to temperature changes. Reviews of CCIs in orthopaedics have documented their use in mainly foot and ankle surgery, with very limited descriptions in trauma. They could be beneficial in the management of complex or open injuries due to their low profile and quick insertion time. The aim of this case series were to clarify the use of CCIs in modern day limb reconstruction practice.

Introduction

Sheffield Children's Hospital specialises in limb lengthening for children. Soft tissue contracture and loss of range of motion at the knee and ankle are common complications. This review aims to look at therapeutic techniques used by the therapy team to manage these issues.

Introduction

Compartment syndrome can be a life changing consequence of injury to a limb. If not diagnosed and treated early it can lead to permanent disability. Neurovascular observations done on the ward by nursing staff, are often our early warning system to those developing compartment syndrome. But are these adequate for detecting the early signs of compartment syndrome? Our aim was to compare the quality and variability of charts across the UK major trauma network.

Introduction

Day stay surgery for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions is an increasingly common practice and has driven clinicians to come up with postoperative pain regimes that allow same day mobilisation and a safe and timely discharge. There is a paucity of literature surrounding the use of intraosseous (IO) ropivacaine used as a Bier's block to provide both intraoperative and postoperative analgesia in lower limb surgery.

Background

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with concomitant meniscal injury occurs frequently. Meniscal repair is associated with improved long-term outcomes compared to resection but is also associated with a higher reoperation rate. Knowledge of the risk factors for repair failure may be important in optimizing patient outcomes.

Introduction

The Te Whatu Ora Southern catchment area covers the largest geographical region in New Zealand (over 62,000 km2) creating logistical challenges in providing timely access to emergency neck of femur (NOF) fracture surgery. Current Australian and New Zealand guidelines recommend that NoF surgery be performed within 48 hours of presentation. The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes for patients with NoF fractures who present directly to a referral hospital (Southland Hospital) compared to those are transferred from rural peripheral centres.

Aims

Hip fracture is a common injury in the elderly. Recent studies in orthopaedic access have demonstrated inequities affecting Māori. This study aimed to compare the demographic differences between Māori and NZ Europeans with hip fractures, identify any deficiencies in initial, surgical and post op care and in outcomes.

Introduction

Distal femur fractures have traditionally been stabilized with either lateral locking plate or retrograde intramedullary nail. Dual-plates and nail-plate combination fixation have the theoretical biomechanical advantage, faster union and allows patients to weight bear immediately.

The aim of this study is to compare single vs combination fixation, and evaluate outcomes and complications.

Background

Increasing evidence suggests a link between the bearing surface used in total hip arthroplasty (THA) and the occurrence of infection. It is postulated that polyethylene has immunomodulatory effects and may influence bacterial function and survival, thereby impacting the development of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). This study aimed to investigate the association between polyethylene type and revision surgery for PJI in THA using data from the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry (AOANJRR). We hypothesized that the use of XLPE would demonstrate a statistically significant reduction in revision rates due to PJI compared to N-XLPE.

Introduction

Comparative studies examining Fixed-Bearing (FB) and Mobile-Bearing (MB) Total Ankle Replacement (TAR) designs have demonstrated similar results and successful long-term outcomes for both. To date there has been no study directly comparing FB and MB designs of the same prosthesis. We present the first prospective randomised trial comparing patient satisfaction, functional outcomes and radiographic results of the Salto Talaris Fixed-Bearing and the Salto Mobile-Bearing Total Ankle Replacement in the treatment of end-stage ankle arthritis.

Introduction

Major trauma during military conflicts involve heavily contaminated open fractures. Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) commonly causes infection within a protective biofilm. Lactoferrin (Lf), a natural milk glycoprotein, chelates iron and releases bacteria from biofilms, complimenting antibiotics. This research developed a periprosthetic biofilm infection model in rodents to test an Lf based lavage/sustained local release formulation embedded in Stimulin beads.

Objective

Carpal tunnel release surgery is a commonly performed procedure for alleviating symptoms of median nerve compression and restoring hand function. With pressure on theatre time these procedures are now commonly performed in a step-down out-patient facility under local anaesthetic. The choice of suture for skin closure in this procedure can impact the quality of wound healing, patient outcomes and the follow-up required however the question of the best type of suture remains unanswered. The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes of absorbable and non-absorbable sutures using a randomised control trial design.

Titanium Elastic Nails have been around for the last 40 years, but it has never been introduced properly in the Pacific especially in Samoa in the management of femoral & in severely displaced forearm fractures in the paediatric age group & also Adult upper limb Trauma.

This paper looks at the cases treated in TTM Hospital (Apia, Samoa) from June 2019- June 2023, looking at common injury patterns, indications for fixation and the cost benefit to the family and hospital, in terms of early rehabilitation and improving the length of stay in hospital pre-Tens nail era from 6–8 weeks to 1–2 weeks in hospital. 29 cases were treated with TENs concept during this period, 17 femoral fractures, 10 forearm fractures & 1 humerus fracture.

Lastly this is very useful skill and tool to have in every hospital in the Pacific Islands, through proper training to prevent long term complications.

Introduction

A key outcome measured by national joint registries are revision events. This informs best practice and identifies poor-performing surgical devices. Although registry data often record reasons for revision arthroplasty, interpretation is limited by lack of standardised definitions of revision reasons and objective assessment of radiologic and laboratory parameters. Our study aim was to compare reasons for unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) revision reported to the New Zealand Joint Registry (NZJR) with reasons identified by independent clinical review.

Introduction

The first VRAS TKA was performed in New Zealand in November 2020 using a Patient Specific Balanced Technique whereby VRAS enables very accurate collection of the bony anatomy and soft tissue envelope of the knee to plan and execute the optimal positioning for a balanced TKA

Introduction

Acetabular component loosening with associated bone loss is a challenge in revision hip arthroplasty. Trabecular Metal (TM) by Zimmer Biomet has been shown to have greater implant survivorship for all-cause acetabular revision in small cohort retrospective studies. Our study aims to review outcomes of acetabular TM implants locally.

Aims

Chronic osteomyelitis (COM) of the lower limb in adults can be surgically managed by either limb reconstruction or amputation. This scoping review aims to map the outcomes used in studies surgically managing COM in order to aid future development of a core outcome set.

Aims

The number of females within the speciality of trauma and orthopaedics (T&O) is increasing. The aim of this study was to identify: 1) current attitudes and behaviours of UK female T&O surgeons towards pregnancy; 2) any barriers faced towards pregnancy with a career in T&O surgery; and 3) areas for improvement.

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the risk of postoperative complications in COVID-19-positive patients undergoing common orthopaedic procedures.

Aim

The primary endpoint of this study is to characterize the progression of bone defects at the femoral and tibial side in patients who sustained PJI of the knee that underwent two-stage revision with spacer implantation. In addition, we want to analyze the differences between functional moulded and hand-made spacers.

Simultaneous bilateral total hip arthroplasty (THA) in patients with bilateral hip osteoarthritis is gradually becoming attractive, as it requires a single anesthesia and hospitalization. However, there are concerns about the potential complications following this surgical option. The purpose of this study is to compare the short-term major and minor complications and assess the readmission rate, between patients treated with same-day bilateral THA and those with staged procedures within a year.

We retrospectively reviewed the charts of all patients with bilateral hip osteoarthritis that underwent simultaneous or staged (within a year) bilateral total THA in our institution, between 2016-2020. Preoperative patient variables between the two groups were compared using the 2-sample t-test for continuous variables, the Fisher's exact test for binary variables, or the chi-square test for multiple categorical variables. Similarly, differences in the 30-day major and minor complications and readmission rates were assessed. A logistic regression model was also developed to identify potential risk factors.

A total of 160 patients (mean age: 64.3 years, SD: ±11.7) that underwent bilateral THA was identified. Seventy-nine patients were treated with simultaneous and eighty-one patients with staged procedures. There were no differences in terms of preoperative laboratory values, gender, age, Body Mass Index (BMI), or American Society of Anesthesiologists Scores (ASA) (p>0.05) between the two groups. Patients in the simultaneous group were more likely to receive general anesthesia (43% vs 9.9%, p0.05). After controlling for potential confounders, the multivariable logistic regression analysis showed similar odds of having a major (odds ratio 0.29, 95% confidence interval [0.30-2.88], p=0.29) or minor (odds ratio 1.714, 95% confidence interval [0.66-4.46], p=0.27) complication after simultaneous compared to staged bilateral THA. No differences in emergency department visits or readmission for reasons related to the procedure were recorded (p>0.05).

This study shows that similar complication and readmission rates are expected after simultaneous and staged THAs. Simultaneous bilateral THA is a safe and effective procedure, that should be sought actively and counselled by surgeons, for patients that present with radiologic and clinical bilateral hip disease.

Psoas tendinopathy is a potential cause of groin pain after primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). The direct anterior approach (DAA) is becoming increasingly popular as the standard approach for primary THA due to being a muscle preserving technique. It is unclear what the prevalence is for the development of psoas-related pain after DAA THA, how this can influence patient reported outcome, and which risk factors can be identified.

This retrospective case control study of prospectively recorded data evaluated 1784 patients who underwent 2087 primary DAA THA procedures between January 2017 and September 2019. Psoas tendinopathy was defined as (1) persistence of groin pain after DAA THA and was triggered by active hip flexion, (2) exclusion of other causes such as dislocation, infection, implant loosening or (occult) fractures, and (3) a positive response to an image-guided injection with xylocaine and steroid into the psoas tendon sheath. Complication-, re-operation rates, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were measured.

Forty-three patients (45 hips; 2.2%) were diagnosed with psoas tendinopathy according to the above-described criteria. The mean age of patients who developed psoas tendinopathy was 50.8±11.7 years, which was significantly lower than the mean age of patients without psoas pain (62.4±12.7y; p<0.001). Patients with primary hip osteoarthritis were significantly less likely to develop psoas tendinopathy (14/1207; 1.2%) in comparison to patients with secondary hip osteoarthritis to dysplasia (18/501; 3.6%) (p<0.001) or FAI (12/305; 3.9%) (p<0.001). Patients with psoas tendinopathy had significantly lower PROM scores at 6 weeks and 1 year follow-up.

Psoas tendinopathy was present in 2.2% after DAA THA. Younger age and secondary osteoarthritis due to dysplasia or FAI were risk factors for the development of psoas tendinopathy. Post-operatively, patients with psoas tendinopathy often also presented with low back pain and lateral trochanteric pain. Psoas tendinopathy had an important influence on the evolution of PROM scores.

Aim

A significant number of patients undergoing shoulder arthroplasty surgery have C acnes contamination at the end of the primary surgery. The objective of this study is to determine whether patients with C acnes contamination at the end of their primary shoulder surgery have a worse prognosis than those who end up without C. acnes contamination.

Same day home (SDH) discharge in total joint arthroplasty (TJA) has increased in popularity in recent years. The objective of this study was to evaluate the causes and predictors of failed discharges in planned SDH patients.

A consecutive cohort of patients who underwent total knee (TKA) or total hip arthroplasty (THA) that were scheduled for SDH discharge between April 1, 2019 to March 31, 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Patient demographics, causes of failed discharge, perioperative variables, 30-day readmissions and 6-month reoperation rates were collected. Multivariate regression analysis was undertaken to identify independent predictors of failed discharge.

The cohort consisted of 527 consecutive patients. One hundred and one (19%) patients failed SDH discharge. The leading causes were postoperative hypotension (20%) and patients who were ineligible for the SDH pathway (19%). Two individual surgeons, later operative start time (OR 1.3, 95% CI, 1.15-1.55, p=0.001), ASA class IV (OR 3.4, 95% CI, 1.4-8.2; p=0.006) and undergoing a THA (OR 2.0, 95% CI, 1.2-3.1, p=0.004) were independent predictors of failed SDH discharge. No differences in age, BMI, gender, surgical approach or type of anesthetic were found (p>0.05). The 30-day readmission or 6-month reoperation were similar between groups (p>0.05).

Hypotension and inappropriate patient selection were the leading causes of failed SDH discharge. Significant variability existed between individual surgeons failed discharge rates. Patients undergoing a THA, classified as ASA IV or had a later operative start time were all more likely to fail SDH discharge.

The diagnosis of infection following shoulder arthroplasty is notoriously difficult. The prevalence of prosthetic shoulder infection after arthroplasty ranges from 3.9 – 15.4% and the most common infective organism is Cutibacterium acnes. Current preoperative diagnostic tests fail to provide a reliable means of diagnosis including WBC, ESR, CRP and joint aspiration. Fluoroscopic-guided percutaneous synovial biopsy (PSB) has previously been reported in the context of a pilot study and demonstrated promising results. The purpose of this study was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of percutaneous synovial biopsy compared with open culture results (gold standard).

This was a multicenter prospective cohort study involving four sites and 98 patients who underwent revision shoulder arthroplasty. The cohort was 60% female with a mean age was 65 years (range 36-83 years). Enrollment occurred between June 2014 and November 2021. Pre-operative fluoroscopy-guided synovial biopsies were carried out by musculoskeletal radiologists prior to revision surgery. A minimum of five synovial capsular tissue biopsies were obtained from five separate regions in the shoulder. Revision shoulder arthroplasty was performed by fellowship-trained shoulder surgeons. Intraoperative tissue samples were taken from five regions of the joint capsule during revision surgery.

Of 98 patients who underwent revision surgery, 71 patients underwent both the synovial biopsy and open biopsy at time of revision surgery. Nineteen percent had positive infection based on PSB, and 22% had confirmed culture positive infections based on intra-operative tissue sampling. The diagnostic accuracy of PSB compared with open biopsy results were as follows: sensitivity 0.37 (95%CI 0.13-0.61), specificity 0.81 (95%CI 0.7-0.91), positive predictive value 0.37 (95%CI 0.13 – 0.61), negative predictive value 0.81 (95%CI 0.70-0.91), positive likelihood ratio 1.98 and negative likelihood ratio 0.77.

A patient with a positive pre-operative PSB undergoing revision surgery had an 37% probability of having true positive infection. A patient with a negative pre-operative PSB has an 81% chance of being infection-free. PSB appears to be of value mainly in ruling out the presence of peri-prosthetic infection. However, poor likelihood ratios suggest that other ancillary tests are required in the pre-operative workup of the potentially infected patient.

Tourniquet use in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains a subject of considerable debate. A recent study questioned the need for tourniquets based on associated risks. However, the study omitted analysis of crucial tourniquet-related parameters which have been demonstrated in numerous studies to be associated with safe tourniquet use and reduction of adverse events. The current utilization and preferences of tourniquet use in Canada remain unknown. Our primary aim was to determine the current practices, patterns of use, and opinions of tourniquet use in TKA among members of the Canadian Arthroplasty Society (CAS). Additionally, we sought to determine the need for updated best practice guidelines to inform optimal tourniquet use and to identify areas requiring further research.

A self-administered survey was emailed to members of the CAS in October 2021(six-week period). The response rate was 57% (91/161). Skip logic branching was used to administer a maximum of 59 questions related to tourniquet use, beliefs, and practices. All respondents were staff surgeons and 88% were arthroplasty fellowship trained. Sixty-five percent have been in practice for ≥11 years and only 16% for 50 TKA/year, 59% have an academic practice, and >67% prefer cemented TKA.

Sixty-six percent currently use tourniquets, 25% no longer do but previously did, and 9% never used tourniquets. For those not using tourniquets, the most common reasons are potential harm/risks and publications/conferences. Among current users, 48% use in all cases and an additional 37% use in 76-99% of cases. The top reason for use was improved visualization/bloodless field (88%), followed by performing a cemented TKA, used in training, and faster operative times. The main patient factor influencing selective tourniquet use was peripheral vascular disease and main surgical factors were operative duration and cementless TKA. The most frequent adverse events reported were bruising/pinching under the tourniquet and short-term pain, which majority believed were related to improper tourniquet use (prolonged time, high-pressures, poor cuff fit), yet only 8% use contoured tourniquets and 32% don't use limb protection. Despite substantial evidence in literature that tourniquet safety and probability of harm are affected by tourniquet time and pressure, only 83% and 72% of respondents believe reducing tourniquet time and pressure respectively reduce the probability of harm. In addition, no surgeon utilizes personalized limb occlusion pressure which has been demonstrated to substantially reduce tourniquet pressure while being safe and effective. Furthermore, 62% always use fixed pressure and 37% will modify the pressure based on patient parameters, most often systolic blood pressure and limb size. Almost all (88%) were interested in new evidence-based guidelines regarding these parameters.

Tourniquet use in TKA remains prevalent among arthroplasty surgeons in the CAS; however tremendous practice variability regarding several key parameters required for optimal use exists. Current best practices of tourniquet use regarding personalized pressures, time, and type are not being utilized across Canada. There is considerable interest and need for further research and updated guidelines regarding key parameters of safe tourniquet usage to optimize tourniquet use in TKA.

Abstract

Cemented total hip arthroplasty (THA) in the younger patient has historically been associated with higher wear and revision rates. We carried out a retrospective study of a prospectively collected database of patients at Wrightington hospital undergoing cemented THA under 55 years of age to determine acetabular wear and revision rates.

Between August 2005 and December 2021 a cohort of 110 patients, 56 males and 54 females, underwent Cemented Total Hip Replacement through a posterior approach. Mean age at operation was 50yrs (35–55). The mean follow up was 6 years 9 months (0–16 years). 3 patients were lost to follow-up. Of the remaining 107 patients, Conventional and cross lined polyethylene were used in 54 and 53 patients respectively. Ceramic heads were used in 102 patients. 22.225mm and 28mm heads were used in 60 and 47 patients respectively. Clinical outcomes were assessed by Merle d'Aubigne and Postel scores which showed significant functional improvement. Linear wear was measured on plain radiographs using TRAUMA CAD and cup loosening was assessed by classification of Hodgkinson et al.

No cases were revised during the observed follow up period. The mean wear rate in conventional and crosslinked polyethylene cups were 2.31mm (0.1–4.6) and 1.02mm (0.1–2.6) respectively.

Cemented THA with both conventional and crosslinked polyethylene provides excellent survival rates in adults under the age of 55 years and crosslinked polyethylene may further improve these results due to improved wear rates.

Knowledge of the premorbid glenoid shape and the morphological changes the bone undergoes in patients with glenohumeral arthritis can improve surgical outcomes in total and reverse shoulder arthroplasty. Several studies have previously used scapular statistical shape models (SSMs) to predict premorbid glenoid shape and evaluate glenoid erosion properties. However, current literature suggests no studies have used scapular SSMs to examine the changes in glenoid surface area in patients with glenohumeral arthritis. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare the glenoid articular surface area between pathologic glenoid cavities from patients with glenohumeral arthritis and their predicted premorbid shape using a scapular SSM. Furthermore, this study compared pathologic glenoid surface area with that from virtually eroded glenoid models created without influence from internal bone remodelling activity and osteophyte formation. It was hypothesized that the pathologic glenoid cavities would exhibit the greatest glenoid surface area despite the eroded nature of the glenoid and the medialization, which in a vault shape, should logically result in less surface area.

Computer tomography (CT) scans from 20 patients exhibiting type A2 glenoid erosion according to the Walch classification [Walch et al., 1999] were obtained. A scapular SSM was used to predict the premorbid glenoid shape for each scapula. The scapula and humerus from each patient were automatically segmented and exported as 3D object files along with the scapular SSM from a pre-operative planning software. Each scapula and a copy of its corresponding SSM were aligned using the coracoid, lateral edge of the acromion, inferior glenoid tubercule, scapular notch, and the trigonum spinae. Points were then digitized on both the pathologic humeral and glenoid surfaces and were used in an iterative closest point (ICP) algorithm in MATLAB (MathWorks, Natick, MA, USA) to align the humerus with the glenoid surface. A Boolean subtraction was then performed between the scapular SSM and the humerus to create a virtual erosion in the scapular SSM that matched the erosion orientation of the pathologic glenoid. This led to the development of three distinct glenoid models for each patient: premorbid, pathologic, and virtually eroded (Fig. 1). The glenoid surface area from each model was then determined using 3-Matic (Materialise, Leuven, Belgium).

Figure 1. (A) Premorbid glenoid model, (B) pathologic glenoid model, and (C) virtually eroded glenoid model.

The average glenoid surface area for the pathologic scapular models was 70% greater compared to the premorbid glenoid models (P < 0 .001). Furthermore, the surface area of the virtual glenoid erosions was 6.4% lower on average compared to the premorbid glenoid surface area (P=0.361).

The larger surface area values observed in the pathologic glenoid cavities suggests that sufficient bone remodelling exists at the periphery of the glenoid bone in patients exhibiting A2 type glenohumeral arthritis. This is further supported by the large difference in glenoid surface area between the pathologic and virtually eroded glenoid cavities as the virtually eroded models only considered humeral anatomy when creating the erosion.

For any figures or tables, please contact the authors directly.

Aim

The treatment of fracture-related infections (FRI) focuses on obtaining fracture healing and eradicating infection to prevent osteomyelitis. Treatment guidelines include removal, exchange, or retention of the implants used according to the stability of the fracture and the time from the infection. Infection of a fracture in the process of healing with a stable fixation may be treated with implant retention, debridement, and antibiotics. Nonetheless, the retention of an intramedullary nail is a potential risk factor for failure, and it is recommended to exchange or remove the nail. This surgical approach implies additional life-threatening risks in elderly fragile hip fracture patients.

Our study aimed to analyze the results of implant retention for the treatment of infected nails in elderly hip fracture patients.

The aim of this study was to determine the incidence, annual trend, perioperative outcomes, and identify risk factors of early-onset (≤ 90 days) deep surgical site infection (SSI) following primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for osteoarthritis. Risk factors for early-onset deep SSI were assessed.

We performed a retrospective population-based cohort study using prospectively collected patient-level data from several provincial administrative data repositories between January 2013, and March 2020. The diagnosis of early-onset deep SSI was based on published Centre for Disease Control/National Healthcare Safety Network (CDC/NHSN) definitions. The Mann-Kendall Trend Test was used to detect monotonic trends in early-onset deep SSI rates over time. The effects of various patient and surgical risk factors for early-onset deep SSI were analyzed using multiple logistic regression. Secondary outcomes were 90-day mortality and 90-day readmission.

A total of 20,580 patients underwent primary TKA for osteoarthritis. Forty patients had a confirmed deep SSI within 90-days of surgery representing a cumulative incidence of 0.19%. The annual infection rate did not change over the 7-year study period (p = 0.879). Risk factors associated with early-onset deep SSI included blood transfusions (OR, 3.93 [95% CI 1.34-9.20]; p=0.004), drug or alcohol abuse (OR, 4.91 [95% CI 1.85-10.93]; p<0.001), and surgeon volume less than 30 TKA per year (OR, 4.45 [1.07-12.43]; p=0.013). Early-onset deep SSI was not associated with 90-days mortality (OR, 11.68 [0.09-90-58]; p=0.217), but was associated with an increased chance of 90-day readmission (OR, 50.78 [26.47-102.02]; p<0.001).

This study establishes a reliable baseline infection rate for early-onset deep SSI after TKA for osteoarthritis through the use of a robust methodological process. Several risk factors for early-onset deep SSI are potentially modifiable or can be optimized prior to surgery and be effective in reducing the incidence of early-onset SSI. This could guide the formulation of provincial screening programs and identify patients at high risk for SSI.

The primary objective is to compare revision rates for lumbar disc replacement (LDR) and fusion at the same or adjacent levels in Ontario, Canada. The secondary objectives include acute complications during hospitalization and in 30 days, and length of hospital stay.

A population-based cohort study was conducted using health administrative databases including patients undergoing LDR or single level fusion between October 2005 to March 2018. Patients receiving LDR or fusion were identified using physician claims recorded in the Ontario Health Insurance Program database. Additional details of surgical procedure were obtained from the Canadian Institute for Health Information hospital discharge abstract. Primary outcome measured was presence of revision surgery in the lumbar spine defined as operation greater than 30 days from index procedure. Secondary outcomes were immediate/ acute complications within the first 30 days of index operation.

A total of 42,024 patients were included. Mean follow up in the LDR and fusion groups were 2943 and 2301 days, respectively. The rates of revision surgery at the same or adjacent levels were 4.7% in the LDR group and 11.1% in the fusion group (P=.003). Multivariate analysis identified risk factors for revision surgery as being female, hypertension, and lower surgeon volume. More patients in the fusion group had dural tears (p<.001), while the LDR group had more “other” complications (p=.037). The LDR group had a longer mean hospital stay (p=.018).

In this study population, the LDR group had lower rates of revision compared to the fusion group. Caution is needed in concluding its significance due to lack of clinical variables and possible differences in indications between LDR and posterior decompression and fusion.