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Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 4, Issue 2 | Pages 11 - 16
1 Feb 2015
C. Wyatt M Wright T Locker J Stout K Chapple C Theis JC

Objectives. Effective analgesia after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) improves patient satisfaction, mobility and expedites discharge. This study assessed whether continuous femoral nerve infusion (CFNI) was superior to a single-shot femoral nerve block in primary TKA surgery completed under subarachnoid blockade including morphine. Methods. We performed an adequately powered, prospective, randomised, placebo-controlled trial comparing CFNI of 0.125% bupivacaine versus normal saline following a single-shot femoral nerve block and subarachnoid anaesthesia with intrathecal morphine for primary TKA. Patients were randomised to either treatment (CFNI 0 ml to 10 ml/h 0.125% bupivacaine) or placebo (CFNI 0 ml to 10 ml/h normal saline). Both groups received a single-shot femoral nerve block (0.25% 20 ml bupivacaine) prior to placement of femoral nerve catheter and subarachnoid anaesthesia with intrathecal morphine. All patients had a standardised analgesic protocol. The primary end point was post-operative visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score over 72 hours post-surgery. Secondary outcomes were morphine equivalent dose, range of movement, side effects, and length of stay. Results. A total of 86 patients were recruited. Treatment and placebo groups were comparable. No significant difference was found in VAS pain scores, total morphine equivalent requirements, side effects, range of movement, motor block, or length of hospital stay. Conclusion. No significant advantage was found for CFNI over a single-shot femoral block and subarachnoid anaesthesia after TKA. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2015;4:11–16


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 95-B, Issue SUPP_31 | Pages 46 - 46
1 Aug 2013
McConaghie F Payne A Kinninmonth A
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Previous work has demonstrated vulnerability of the femoral nerve to damage by anterior acetabular retractors during THA. The aim of this study was to quantify the proximity of the femoral nerve to the anterior acetabulum, on cadaveric material and MRI studies. A standard posterior approach to the hip was carried out in 6 fresh frozen cadaveric hemipelves. Following dislocation and removal of the femoral head, measurements were taken from the anterior acetabular lip to the posterior aspect of the femoral nerve as it passed over this point. 14 MRI studies of the hip were obtained from the local PACS database (7 male, 7 female; mean age 58 (range 32–80)). T1 weighted axial scans were reviewed. Measurements were obtained from the anterior acetabular lip to the posterior surface of the femoral nerve and artery, and the cross-sectional area of iliopsoas was calculated. There was no significant difference between the mean distances to the femoral nerve in the cadaveric (24 mm) and MRI groups (25.3mm) (p=0.7). On MRI images, the distance between the acetabular wall and both the femoral artery (p=0.003) and femoral nerve (p=0.007) was significantly larger in men. The femoral artery is strikingly close to the acetabulum in females, passing a mean distance of 14.8 mm, whereas in males this was 23.9 mm. The mean femoral nerve distance was 28.7 mm in males and 21.9 mm in females. The cross-sectional area of iliopsoas was significantly smaller in women (5.97 cm. 2. compared to 11.37 cm. 2. , p<0.001). Both the femoral artery and nerve run in close proximity to the anterior acetabular lip. Care should be taken when placing instruments in this area to avoid neurovascular injury. The increased incidence of femoral nerve damage in women following THA may be due to the significantly smaller bulk of iliopsoas


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 93-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 266 - 267
1 Jul 2011
Jones KB Riad S Griffin A Deheshi B Bell RS Ferguson P Wunder JS
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Purpose: The functional consequences of femoral nerve resection during soft tissue sarcoma management are not well described. Sciatic nerve resection with a sarcoma, once considered an indication for amputation, is now commonly performed during limb salvage. We compared the functional outcomes of femoral and sciatic nerve resections in patients undergoing wide resection of soft-tissue sarcomas. Method: The prospectively collected database from a tertiary referral center for sarcomas was retrospectively reviewed to identify patients with resection of the femoral or sciatic nerve performed during wide excision of a soft tissue sarcoma. Patient demographics, treatment, complications and functional outcomes were collected. Results: Ten patients with femoral nerve resections were identified, all women, aged 47 to 78, with large soft tissue sarcomas of varied subtypes. All patients received adjuvant radiotherapy, most pre-operatively. Six patients developed fractures with long-term follow-up, only two of which were in the prior radiation field. Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) 1987 scores demonstrated one excellent, 4 good, and 5 fair results. MSTS 1993 scores averaged 71.4 ± 17.2 percent and Toronto Extremity Salvage Scores (TESS) averaged 61.7 ± 21.8. There were no significant differences between the functional scores for patients with femoral or sciatic nerve resections (P=1.0). Conclusion: Femoral nerve resection appears more morbid than anticipated. The falls to which patients were prone, even years after surgery, subject them to ongoing long-term risks for fractures and other injuries. Nerve-specific functional outcomes should be considered when counseling patients prior possible resection of the femoral nerve for involvement by a soft tissue sarcoma


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 92-B, Issue SUPP_I | Pages 25 - 25
1 Mar 2010
Feibel RJ Kim PR Beaule PE Dervin GF
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Purpose: Multi-modal therapy remains the cornerstone of post-operative pain management following knee replacement surgery. Femoral nerve catheters and blocks have been used with success in the management of post-operative pain yet most practicing arthroplasty surgeons and anaesthesiologists are unaware of the potential complications and risks of the procedure. The purpose of this study is to report on the complications associated with these techniques following knee replacement surgery. Method: One thousand one hundred and ninety patients underwent knee replacement surgery between January 2004 and July 1, 2007 and received an indwelling continuous infusion femoral catheter for post-operative marcaine pump infusion. For the initial 469 patients (Group 1), the continuous infusion ran for 2 to 3 days. In 721 patients, the continuous infusion was discontinued 12 hours following surgery (Group 2). Results: There were 15 major complications observed in 1190 patients: 7 femoral nerve palsies (2 in Group 1, 5 in Group 2) and 8 falls (4 in each group). For the patients who had fallen in hospital, the injuries sustained were: traumatic hemarthrosis, hemarthrosis requiring arthrotomy, major wound dehiscence with exposed implants, complete medial collateral ligament rupture requiring repair, quadriceps tendon rupture requiring delayed repair, minor wound dehiscence with suture, and displaced ankle fracture. Conclusion: Femoral nerve catheters and blocks are effective tools for post-operative pain relief following knee arthroplasty surgery. However, it is important for the surgeon and anaesthesiologist to provide information regarding the potential complications of the treatment as part of an informed consent. Although the complication rate is relatively low at 1.3%, the occurrence of femoral nerve palsies as well as re-operations significantly delayed patient recovery. We did not observe a benefit in terms relative risk reduction with discontinuation of the continuous infusion 12 hours following surgery. The femoral palsies reported in our series have led our institution to adopt ultrasound guidance for catheter placement rather than tradition nerve stimulation technique, although the safety of this newer technique is currently under evaluation


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 93-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 312 - 313
1 Jul 2011
Abouazza O Queally J Harmon D
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Study Objective: To determine the feasibility of ultrasound-guided femoral nerve blockade performed by orthopaedic trainees. Methods: This was a prospective study involving patients presenting to Acciedent & Emergency with fractured femurs requiring analgesia. Physicians performing the nerve blocks were orthopaedic trainees who had participated in a 1-hour training session. The participants underwent ultrasonography-guided femoral nerve blocks to provide analgesia. Any additional analgesia required was recorded. Subjects rated their pain on a Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NRS) before the nerve block and 30 & 60minutes after the nerve block. The primary outcomes for feasibility were the requirement for additional analgesia following injection and the median reduction in pain on the Numerical Pain Rating Scale after the nerve block. Secondary outcomes for feasibility included the median time for completion of the entire nerve block procedure for each subject (from initiation of ultrasonography to completion of the last injection) and the percentage of participants wishing to have the same procedure for similar injuries in the future. Other secondary outcomes included the percentage of participants with complications during the procedure including nerve and vascular injection. Results: All procedures (100%) were completed without additional anesthesia or analgesia with significant reduction in Numerical Pain Rating Scale. There were no immediate complications. Conclusion: Orthopaedic trainees can perform ultrasound-guided femoral nerve blocks in the emergency department with high patient satisfaction, after minimal training


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 94-B, Issue SUPP_XXXVIII | Pages 23 - 23
1 Sep 2012
Farlinger C Wasserstein D Brull R Briggs N Muir O Mahomed N Gandhi R
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Purpose. Femoral nerve blockade (FNB) can provide prolonged postoperative analgesia and facilitate rehabilitation following major knee surgery while minimizing opioid-related adverse effects. However, anecdotal data have implicated FNB in post-operative falls, presumably due to a block-related reduction in quadriceps strength. Age, gender and knee replacement surgery have also been previously identified as risk factors for falls in the acute postoperative orthopaedic inpatient setting. We hypothesized that the use of FNB would be an independent predictor of an inpatient fall following total knee replacement (TKR). Method. We examined a cohort of 2,197 patients who underwent TKR in a single academic institution between October 2003 and March 2010. The start date was based on the separate initiation of both a comprehensive regional anesthesia database and an orthopaedic ward Falls Surveillance Program. Patients undergoing revision TKR or unicompartmental arthroplasty were excluded. Age, simultaneous bilateral TKR, gender, body mass index (BMI), and various regional nerve blocks were considered predictors of post-operative falls in a logistic regression model. The database allowed resolution of the type (i.e. femoral, sciatic) and duration (i.e. single-bolus, indwelling continuous perineural catheter) of nerve blockade. Hospital-standard dosing and insertion techniques were employed. Results. The total number of falls was 60 (rate 2.7%), 40 of which occurred within 48 hours of surgery. When compared to patients who did not fall, those who fell were significantly older (699 years vs 6611 years; p=0.03), obese [BMI >30kg/m2] (75% vs 59%; p=0.01) and had continuous catheter FNB (97% vs 86%; p=0.02). The odds ratio of having a fall was 1.04 (1.0–1.07; p=0.008) for each one-year increase in age above the mean age of 66 years, 2.4 (1.3–4.5; p=0.005) for a BMI >30kg/m2 and 4.4 (1.04–18.2; p=0.04) for continuous catheter FNB. Gender, simultaneous bilateral TKR, any sciatic nerve block or spinal anesthetic did not predict an increased risk of acute-care post-operative falls. Conclusion. This is the first study to demonstrate an increased risk of post-operative falls in obese patients and with the use of continuous catheter FNB following TKR. Careful consideration of the use of continuous catheter FNB may be warranted in patients with additional risk factors for falls such as advanced age and obesity


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 105-B, Issue SUPP_12 | Pages 67 - 67
23 Jun 2023
Yamamoto T Fujita J
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Injury of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) is one of the known complications after periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) using anterior approach. We previously reported that the incidence of LFCN injury was 48% at 1 year after PAO. However, there was no study examining the sequential changes of LFCN injury status. In this study, we performed a prospective over 3-year follow-up study as to the incidence of LFCN injury as well as its clinical outcomes. This study included 40 consecutive hips in 40 patients (3 males and 37 females) who underwent PAO from May 2016 to July 2018. The mean age at surgery was 36.7 years (17 to 60). The mean observation period was 47.3 months (36 to 69). The incidence and severity of LFCN injury was evaluated, while clinical scores, including the Harris Hip Score (HHS), Short-Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36), and Japanese Orthopaedic Association Hip Disease Evaluation Questionnaire (JHEQ), were also investigated. At 3 years after PAO, LFCN injury was observed in 13 of 40 (33%) patients, in which 7 patients who had a symptom at 1 year have completely recovered. There was no significant difference in the HHS and SF-36 between patients with and without LFCN injury at 3 years. Regarding the JHEQ, a significant difference was recognized in the patient satisfaction and mental score between patients with and without LFCN injury, but there were no significant differences in the other clinical scores. The incidence of LFCN injury gradually decreased to 33% at 3 years after CPO. LFCN injury did not influence the clinician-reported outcome, while it had a negative impact on patient satisfaction and mental score based on the patient-reported outcome


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 92-B, Issue SUPP_I | Pages 18 - 18
1 Mar 2010
Mauro CS Kline AJ Jordan SS Irrgang JJ Fu FH Williams BA Radkowski CA Harner C
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Purpose: While several studies have reported improved pain control with use of femoral nerve blocks (FNB) following ACL reconstruction, there are few studies that have evaluated the effect of continuous perineural infusion on quadriceps activation and recovery of range of motion after ACL reconstruction. The purpose of this prospective randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial was to determine if the use of continuous infusion of levobupivacaine for pain control following ACL reconstruction had an adverse effect on postoperative quadriceps activation and recovery of ROM.

Method: Two-hundred-seventy patients underwent ACL reconstruction and were randomly assigned to one of three FNB groups (placebo bolus and infusion, active bolus with placebo infusion, or active bolus and continuous infusion). The patients’ ability to perform a SLR was assessed daily for the first four post-operative days. Range of motion of the knee was measured with a goniometer 1, 4, 8 and 12 weeks after surgery. Range of motion complications requiring arthroscopic debridement, manipulation under anesthesia, or application of a drop-out cast were recorded.

Results: There were no significant differences between groups in their ability to perform a SLR on postoperative day 1 through 4. There were also no differences between active and passive ROM values between groups at each follow-up period. There were 7 (3.2%) early ROM complications, but no detectable differences between groups.

Conclusion: Continuous perineural infusion of levobupivacaine (0.25% at 5mL/hr for 50 hours) following ACL reconstruction does not appear to negatively influence quadriceps activation as evidenced by the inability to perform a SLR or adversely affect recovery of range of motion in the early postoperative period after ACL reconstruction. Continuous perineural infusion can provide effective pain relief without adversely affecting post-operative recovery following ACL reconstruction.


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 99-B, Issue SUPP_12 | Pages 49 - 49
1 Jun 2017
Bartlett J Lawrence J Khanduja V
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To quantify the risk posed to the Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve (LFCN) during Total Hip Arthroplasty using the Minimally Invasive Anterior Approach (MIAA), and during placement of the Anterior Portal (AP) in Supine Hip Arthroscopy (SHA). Forty-five hemipelves from thirty-nine cadavers were dissected. The LFCN was identified proximal to the inguinal ligament (IL), and its path in the thigh identified. The positions of the nerve and its branches in relation to the MIAA incision and the site for AP placement were measured using Vernier Callipers. 44% of nerves crossed the incision line used in the MIAA, at an average distance of 47 ± 28mm from the proximal end of the incision. Of those that did not cross the incision line, the average minimum distance between the nerve and incision was 14.4 ± 7.4mm, occurring on average 74.0 ± 37.3mm from the proximal end of the incision. In addition, the AP was placed in the path of the nerve on 38% of occasions. The nerve took an oblique path, and when found not to intersect with the AP portal, was located 5.7 ± 4.5mm from the portal's edge. We found a reduction in risk if the portal is moved medially or laterally by 15mm from its current location. The LFCN is at high risk of injury during both THA using the MIAA and SHA using the AP. Our study emphasises the need for meticulous dissection during these procedures, and thorough explanation of these risk whilst consenting patients. We suggest that relocation of the AP 15mm more laterally or medially will reduce the risk posed to the LFCN


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 98-B, Issue SUPP_21 | Pages 2 - 2
1 Dec 2016
Kim P Gala L Beaulé P
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The incidence of lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) neuropraxia after anterior approach total hip arthroplasty has been reported to occur in up to 50% of patients. In the vast majority of cases there has been no functional impact it is unknown if symptoms persist or diminish over time. The aim of this study was to examine the natural history LFCN neuropraxia in a previously reported cohort of individuals after anterior approach total hip arthroplasty. One hundred and forty three consecutive patients underwent direct anterior hip approach (DAA) between September 2006 and February 2009 of which 107 had been identified with LCFN neuropraxia. These 107 patients (39 THA; 68 HR; 44 Female & 63 male; mean age 55.4 (38.4–88.8)), were provided a self-reported questionnaire for sensory deficits associated with LFCN as well as severity of symptoms on a 10 point visual analogue scale (VAS). These were done at initial assessment and latest follow-up. Sixty of the 107 patients (56%) completed their questionnaires at a mean follow-up of 5.4 years (24 THA; 36 HR). Twenty-two percent (13 of 60: 8 men & 5 women) had complete resolution of their symptoms (9 HR and 4 THR). Of the 47 patients (78%) still reporting symptoms of LFCN neuropraxia, the mean score on VAS decreased from a mean of 2.32 (SD:2.11) to 1.74 (SD:1.99). No limitation in activities was reported for 90% of patients (54 out of the 60). Of the 6 patients (10%) with limited activity they reported a mean VAS score of 4.4 (SD: 3.6 range of 0–8.4). The LFCN symptoms did not appear to be directly related to their activity limitation. While LFCN neuropraxia can be a common complication following direct anterior approach hip replacement, almost a quarter of patients will have complete resolution of symptoms and the majority will have a decrease in their symptomatology. LFCN neuropraxia following DAA hip arthroplasty does not appear to lead to any functional limitations and is associated with a low score on VAS


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 87-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 366 - 366
1 Sep 2005
Fick D Khan R Nivbrant B Wood D
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Introduction and Aims: The Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve is placed at risk of iatrogenic injury in the dual incision minimally invasive approach THA. A number of trials have indicated rates of injury up to 30%. This clinical and cadaver study examined the morphology of the nerve in 101 cadaver specimens and in 78 dual incision THA patients. Method: One hundred and one lateral femoral cutaneous nerves of the thigh were dissected in fresh and formalin embalmed specimens. Dissection was limited to the anterior thigh and the branch pattern of the LFCN recorded. Dual incision patients were followed prospectively and examined with regard to LFCN paraesthesia. Results: Despite the variability of the nerve, three basic morphologic patterns emerged. Approximately 55% had a major medial trunk and smaller lateral branch, 30% involved two distinct large branches and 15% had a trifurcation or other pattern. In our clinical series, over 30% of patients experienced paraesthesia and some experienced a burning dysaesthesia in the distribution of the LFCN. Conclusion: Iatrogenic injury to the LFCN is relatively common in the dual incision minimally invasive THA and patients must be informed of such a risk. Based on this study we have slightly modified our incision and approach


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 93-B, Issue SUPP_IV | Pages 568 - 568
1 Nov 2011
Goulding K Beaulé PE
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Purpose: LFCN neuropraxia is a known complication of the anterior approach to the hip joint. The objective of this study was to define the incidence, functional impact and natural history of this neuropraxia in the anterior approach after both hip resurfacing (HR) and primary total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Method: Between September 2006 and January 2008, 132 consecutive patients underwent a direct anterior hip approach (DAA) (55 THR; 77 HR). Sixty-two patients were female and 70 were male; the mean age was 55.54 (range, 29.9 to 88.7). Self reported questionnaires for sensory deficits of LFCN, a neuropathic pain score (DN4) as well as SF-12, UCLA and WOMAC scores were completed. A subset of 60 patients (30 THA, 30 resurfacing) was evaluated at two time intervals (6 and 12 months).

Results: One hundred and seven patients (81%) reported LFCN neuropraxia, with a mean severity score of 2.32/10 (SD, 2.11); mean DN4 score of 2.42/10 (SD, 2.37). Hip resurfacing had a higher incidence of neuro-praxia compared to THA: 91% versus 67% (p=0.02), respectively. No functional limitations were reported on SF-12, WOMAC or UCLA scores. Of the subset of 60 patients, 53 (88.3%) reported neuropraxia at the six month follow-up interval with only three (5.7%) having complete resolution at 12 months. Patients who reported neuropraxia at both testing intervals did report an improvement in DN4 scores: 3.6 versus 2.5 at 6 and 12 months, respectively (p=0.02).

Conclusion: Although LFCN neuropraxia is a frequent complication after DAA total hip arthroplasty, it does not lead to any functional limitations. A decrease in symptoms does occur over time, with only a small number of patients reporting complete resolution.


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 88-B, Issue SUPP_II | Pages 246 - 247
1 May 2006
Jameson S Howcroft D McCaskie PA Gerrand MC
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Introduction Smaller skin incisions during a minimally invasive approach to total hip arthroplasty may accelerate rehabilitation and reduce inpatient stay. Cutaneous nerve injury from a standard 20cm lateral approach was compared with a new, oblique minimally invasive 10cm incision.

Method The two surgical approaches were defined on fifteen cadaveric thighs. Cutaneous nerves lying deep to the incisions were dissected out. Projected nerve injury resulting from each approach was recorded.

Results The mean number of nerves divided by a standard approach was 5.0 compared with 4.1 in the minimally invasive approach (mean difference 0.87, 95% confidence interval 0.03 to 1.7, P=0.043). However, the mean number of nerves per cm divided by the standard approach was 0.25 compared with 0.41 by the minimally invasive (mean difference −0.163, 95% confidence interval −0.09 to −0.24, P< 0.001).

Discussion The oblique incision ran perpendicular to the underlying cutaneous nerves; therefore, more cutaneous nerves were divided per cm than a standard approach. A 10cm oblique incision divides as many nerves as a 16cm standard approach.


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 106-B, Issue SUPP_16 | Pages 31 - 31
19 Aug 2024
Polesello GC Ricioli W Gonçalves CI
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The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of percutaneous tenotomy of the iliopsoas tendon with the aid of ultrasound in cadavers. An anatomical and descriptive study of the technique of percutaneous tenotomy of the iliopsoas tendon guided by ultrasound and to share our experience in performing it and its reproducibility in clinical practice. Out of 20 tenotomies, 17 were total, performed at the level of the superior border of the acetabulum. Three tenotomies were partial, with more than 75% of the tendon being sectioned in all three. During one of the tenotomies, there was a partial injury to the femoral nerve. Measurements were made of the distance between the site where the blade was inserted and the femoral nerve, a noble structure that would be at greater risk during the procedure, with an average distance of 8.4 millimeters. Ultrasound-guided iliopsoas tendon release procedures have the ability to be performed in a cadaveric model, consistently achieving complete tendon release, except in cases of obesity, with minimal repercussions on adjacent structures, and require approximately 4 minutes to complete


The Bone & Joint Journal
Vol. 105-B, Issue 8 | Pages 935 - 942
1 Aug 2023
Bradley CS Verma Y Maddock CL Wedge JH Gargan MF Kelley SP

Aims. Brace treatment is the cornerstone of managing developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), yet there is a lack of evidence-based treatment protocols, which results in wide variations in practice. To resolve this, we have developed a comprehensive nonoperative treatment protocol conforming to published consensus principles, with well-defined a priori criteria for inclusion and successful treatment. Methods. This was a single-centre, prospective, longitudinal cohort study of a consecutive series of infants with ultrasound-confirmed DDH who underwent a comprehensive nonoperative brace management protocol in a unified multidisciplinary clinic between January 2012 and December 2016 with five-year follow-up radiographs. The radiological outcomes were acetabular index-lateral edge (AI-L), acetabular index-sourcil (AI-S), centre-edge angle (CEA), acetabular depth ratio (ADR), International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) grade, and evidence of avascular necrosis (AVN). At five years, each hip was classified as normal (< 1 SD), borderline dysplastic (1 to 2 SDs), or dysplastic (> 2 SDs) based on validated radiological norm-referenced values. Results. Of 993 infants assessed clinically and sonographically, 21% (212 infants, 354 abnormal hips) had DDH and were included. Of these, 95% (202 infants, 335 hips) successfully completed bracing, and 5% (ten infants, 19 hips) failed bracing due to irreducible hip(s). The success rate of bracing for unilateral dislocations was 88% (45/51 infants) and for bilateral dislocations 83% (20/24 infants). The femoral nerve palsy rate was 1% (2/212 infants). At five-year follow-up (mean 63 months (SD 5.9; 49 to 83)) the prevalence of residual dysplasia after successful brace treatment was 1.6% (5/312 hips). All hips were IHDI grade I and none had AVN. Four children (4/186; 2%) subsequently underwent surgery for residual dysplasia. Conclusion. Our comprehensive protocol for nonoperative treatment of infant DDH has shown high rates of success and extremely low rates of residual dysplasia at a mean age of five years. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(8):935–942


Dual mobility cups (DMC) reduce the risk of dislocation in femoral neck fractures (FNF). Direct anterior approach (DAA), historically promoted for better stability, has been developed in recent years for better functional results. The aim of this study was to compare the early functional results of DMC in FNF by DAA versus posterolateral approach (PLA). A prospective study was conducted on a continuous series of patients who received DMC for FNF by DAA or PLA. The primary endpoint was Harris Hip Score and Parker score assessed at the first follow-up visit. Intraoperative complications were collected during hospitalization. One year clinical results and all cause revision rate were also collected. Radiographic data of cup positioning and limb length were evaluated. Fifty-two patients were included in the DAA group and 54 in the PLA group. Two patients were lost to follow-up. The mean age was 72.8 years. There was no significant difference in HHS or Parker score at 3 and 12 months follow up (p=0.6, p= 0.75). DAA was associated with more intraoperative complications with 4 fractures and 1 femoral nerve deficit (p=0.018). There were 3 revisions in the DAA group (1 infection, 1 dislocation, 1 peri prosthetic fracture) and 1 in the PLA group (infection), which was not statistically significant (p=0.34). Cup anteversion was 6° greater and inclination 9° lesser in DAA group (p=0.028, p<0.01). Results suggest that DAA does not provide any early functional benefit in THA-DMC for FNF compared to PLA. It could lead to more intraoperative complications and a higher revision rate. DAA requires an experienced surgeon and careful patient selection


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 104-B, Issue SUPP_13 | Pages 10 - 10
1 Dec 2022
Behman A Bradley C Maddock C Sharma S Kelley S
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There is no consensus regarding the optimum frequency of ultrasound for monitoring the response to Pavlik harness (PH) treatment in developmental dysplasia of hip (DDH). The purpose of our study was to determine if a limited-frequency hip ultrasound (USS) assessment in children undergoing PH treatment for DDH had an adverse effect on treatment outcomes when compared to traditional comprehensive ultrasound monitoring. This study was a single-center non-inferiority randomized controlled trial. Children aged less than six months of age with dislocated, dislocatable and stable dysplastic hips undergoing a standardized treatment program with a PH were randomized, once stability had been achieved, to our current standard USS monitoring protocol (every clinic visit) or to a limited-frequency ultrasound protocol (USS only until hip stability and then end of treatment). Groups were compared based on alpha angle at the end of treatment, acetabular indices (AI) and IHDI grade on follow up radiographs at one-year post harness and complication rates. The premise was that if there were no differences in these outcomes, either protocol could be deemed safe and effective. One hundred patients were recruited to the study; after exclusions, 42 patients completed the standard protocol (SP) and 36 completed the limited protocol (LP). There was no significant difference between the mean age between both groups at follow up x-ray (SP: 17.8 months; LP: 16.6 months; p=0.26). There was no difference between the groups in mean alpha angle at the end of treatment (SP: 69°; LP: 68.1°: p=0.25). There was no significant difference in the mean right AI at follow up (SP: 23.1°; LP: 22.0°; p=0.26), nor on the left (SP:23.3°; LP 22.8°; p=0.59). All hips in both groups were IHDI grade 1 at follow up. The only complication was one femoral nerve palsy in the SP group. In addition, the LP group underwent a 60% reduction in USS use once stable. We found that once dysplastic or dislocated hips were reduced and stable on USS, a limited- frequency ultrasound protocol was not associated with an inferior complication or radiographic outcome profile compared to a standardized PH treatment pathway. Our study supports reducing the frequency of ultrasound assessment during PH treatment of hip dysplasia. Minimizing the need for expensive, time-consuming and in-person health care interventions is critical to reducing health care costs, improving patient experience and assists the move to remote care. Removing the need for USS assessment at every PH check will expand care to centers where USS is not routinely available and will facilitate the establishment of virtual care clinics where clinical examination may be performed remotely


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 3, Issue 6 | Pages 212 - 216
1 Jun 2014
McConaghie FA Payne AP Kinninmonth AWG

Objectives. Acetabular retractors have been implicated in damage to the femoral and obturator nerves during total hip replacement. The aim of this study was to determine the anatomical relationship between retractor placement and these nerves. Methods. A posterior approach to the hip was carried out in six fresh cadaveric half pelves. Large Hohmann acetabular retractors were placed anteriorly, over the acetabular lip, and inferiorly, and their relationship to the femoral and obturator nerves was examined. Results. If contact with bone was not maintained during retractor placement, the tip of the anterior retractor had the potential to compress the femoral nerve by passing superficial to the iliopsoas. If pressure was removed from the anterior retractor, the tip pivoted on the anterior acetabular lip, and passed superficial to the iliopsoas, overlying and compressing the femoral nerve, when pressure was reapplied. The inferior retractor pierced the obturator membrane in all specimens medial to the obturator nerve, with subsequent retraction causing the tip to move laterally, making contact with the nerve. . Conclusion. Iliopsoas can only offer protection to the femoral nerve if the retractor passes deep to the muscle bulk. The anterior retractor should be reinserted if pressure is removed intra-operatively. Vigorous movement of the inferior retractor should be avoided. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2014;3:212–6


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 101-B, Issue SUPP_8 | Pages 112 - 112
1 May 2019
Gustke K
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Anterior surgical approaches for total hip arthroplasty (THA) have increased popularity due to expected faster recovery and less pain. However, the direct anterior approach (Heuter approach which has been popularised by Matta) has been associated with a higher rate of early revisions than other approaches due to femoral component loosening and fractures. It is also noted to have a long learning curve and other unique complications like anterior femoral cutaneous and femoral nerve injuries. Most surgeons performing this approach will require the use of an expensive special operating table. An alternative to the direct anterior approach is the anterior-based muscle-sparing approach. It is also known as the modified Watson-Jones approach, anterolateral muscle-sparing approach, minimally invasive anterolateral approach and the Röttinger approach. With this technique, the hip joint is approached through the muscle interval between the tensor fascia lata and the gluteal muscles, as opposed to the direct anterior approach which is between the sartorius and rectus femoris and the tensor fascia lata. This approach places the femoral nerve at less risk for injury. I perform this technique in the lateral decubitus position, but it can also be performed in the supine position. An inexpensive home-made laminated L-shaped board is clamped on end of table allowing the ipsilateral leg to extend, adduct, and externally rotate during the femoral preparation. This approach for THA has been reported to produce excellent results. One study reports a complication rate of 0.6% femoral fracture rate and 0.4% revision rate for femoral stem loosening. In a prospective randomised trial looking at the learning curve with new approach, the anterior-based muscle-sparing anterior approach had lower complications than a direct anterior approach. The complications and mean operative time with this approach are reported to be no different than a direct lateral approach. Since this surgical approach is not through an internervous interval, a concern is that this may result in a permanent functional defect as result of injury to the superior gluteal nerve. At a median follow-up of 9.3 months, a MRI study showed 42% of patients with this approach had fat replacement of the tensor fascia lata, which is thought to be irreversible. The clinical significance remains unclear, and inconsequential in my experience. A comparison MRI study showed that there was more damage and atrophy to the gluteus medius muscle with a direct lateral approach at 3 and 12 months. My anecdotal experience is that there is faster recovery and less early pain with this approach. A study of the first 57 patients I performed showed significantly less pain and faster recovery in the first six weeks in patients performed with the anterior-based muscle-sparing approach when compared to a matched cohort of THA patients performed with a direct lateral approach. From 2004 to 2017, I have performed 1308 total hip replacements with the anterior-based muscle sparing approach. Alternatively, I will use the direct lateral approach for patients with stiff hips with significant flexion and/or external rotation contractures where I anticipate difficulty with femoral exposure, osteoporotic femurs due to increased risk of intraoperative trochanteric fractures, previously operated hips with scarring or retained hardware, and Crowe III-IV dysplastic hips when there may be a need for a femoral shortening or derotational osteotomy. Complications have been very infrequent. This approach is a viable alternative to the direct anterior approach for patients desiring a fast recovery. The anterior-based muscle-sparing approach is the approach that I currently use for all outpatient total hip surgeries


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 94-B, Issue SUPP_XXIII | Pages 45 - 45
1 May 2012
Coolican M Biswal S Parker D
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Femoral nerve block is a reliable and effective method of providing anaesthesia and analgesia in the peri-operative period but there remains a small but serious risk of neurological complication. We aimed to determine incidence and outcome of neurological complications following femoral nerve block in patients who had major knee surgery. During the period January 2003 to August 2008, medical records of all patients undergoing knee surgery by Dr Myles Coolican and Dr David Parker, who had been administered femoral block for peri-operative analgesia, were evaluated. Patients with a neurological complication were invited take part in the study. A detailed physical examination including sensory responses, motor response and reflexes in both limbs was performed by an independent orthopaedic surgeon. Subjective outcome and pain specific questionnaires as well as clinical measurements were also collected. Out of 1393 patients administered with femoral nerve block anaesthesia during this period, 28 subjects (M:F= 5:23) were identified on the basis of persistent symptoms (more than three months) of femoral nerve dysfunction. All the patients had sensory dysfunction in the autonomous zone of femoral nerve sensory distribution. The incidence of neurological complications was 2.01%. One patient was deceased of unrelated causes and five patients declined to participate in the study. 14 patients out of the 22 have been examined so far. Nine cases had a one shot nerve block and five had continuous peripheral nerve block catheter. Areas of hypoesthesia/anaesthesia involving femoral nerve distribution occurred in 7 subjects and hyperaesthesia/paresthesia occurred in four. One subject had a combination of hypoesthesia and hyperesthesia in different areas of the femoral nerve distribution. Three subjects had bilateral symptoms following bilateral simultaneous nerve blocks. Dysesthesias in the affected dermatomes were found in seven cases and paresthesias were found in eight cases. Douleur Neuropathique en 4 questions (DN4) score of ï. 3. 4 was found in all the patients (average value: 5.55). The average scores for tingling, pins and needles and burning sensation (in a scale from 0 to 10) are 3.8, 3.1 and 2.9 respectively. The incidence of persistent neurological complication after femoral nerve block in our series is much higher compared to the reported incidence in the contemporary literature (Auroy Y. et al. Major complications of regional anesthesia in France: Anesthesiology 2002; 97:1274 80). The symptoms significantly influence the quality of life in the affected cases and question the value of the femoral nerve block in knee surgery