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Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 8, Issue 6 | Pages 255 - 265
1 Jun 2019
Hernigou J Schuind F

Objectives. The aim of this study was to review the impact of smoking tobacco on the musculoskeletal system, and on bone fractures in particular. Methods. English-language publications of human and animal studies categorizing subjects into smokers and nonsmokers were sourced from MEDLINE, The Cochrane Library, and SCOPUS. This review specifically focused on the risk, surgical treatment, and prevention of fracture complications in smokers. Results. Smokers have an increased risk of fracture and experience more complications with delayed bone healing, even if they have already stopped smoking, because some adverse effects persist for a prolonged period. Some risks can be reduced during and after surgery by local and general prevention, and smoking cessation is an important factor in lessening this risk. However, if a patient wants to stop smoking at the time of a fracture, the cessation strategies in reducing tobacco use are not easy to implement. The patient should also be warned that using e-cigarettes or other tobaccos does not appear to reduce adverse effects on health. Conclusion. The evidence reviewed in this study shows that smoking has a negative effect in terms of the risk and treatment of fractures. Cite this article: J. Hernigou, F. Schuind. Tobacco and bone fractures: A review of the facts and issues that every orthopaedic surgeon should know. Bone Joint Res 2019;8:255–265. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.86.BJR-2018-0344.R1


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 10, Issue 3 | Pages 188 - 191
1 Mar 2021
Nicholson T Scott A Newton Ede M Jones SW


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 104-B, Issue SUPP_12 | Pages 102 - 102
1 Dec 2022
Bhattacharjee S Seidel H Liu A Liu C Strelzow J
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The use of cannabis is increasingly medically relevant as it is legalized and gains acceptance more broadly. However, the effects of marijuana use on postoperative outcomes following orthopedic surgery have not been well-characterized. This study seeks to illuminate the relationship between marijuana use and the incidence postoperative complications including: DVT, PE, nonunion, and infection following common orthopedic procedures. This study was conducted using a national orthopaedic claims insurance database. We identified all patients undergoing knee arthroscopy, shoulder arthroscopy, operatively managed long bone fractures (humerus, femur, tibia and/or fibula, and radius and/or ulna), and single-level lumbar fusion. The proportion of patients within each surgery cohort who had a diagnostic code for marijuana dependence was assessed. The rates of DVT, PE, and infection within 90 days were assessed for all patients. The rate of nonunion was assessed for the long bone fracture and lumbar fusion cohorts. Univariate analyses of marijuana dependence on all outcomes were performed, followed by a multivariate logistic regression analysis controlling for known patient comorbidities. We identified 1,113,944 knee arthroscopy, 747,938 shoulder arthroscopy, 88,891 lumbar fusion, and 37,163 long bone fracture patients. Out of the 1,987,936 patients, 24,404 patients had a diagnostic code for marijuana dependence. Within all four surgical subgroups, the marijuana dependence cohort experienced increased rates of infection, PE, and DVT, as well as increased rates of nonunion in the lumbar fusion and long bone fracture populations. In the multivariate analyses controlling for a variety of patient risk factors including tobacco use, marijuana dependence was identified as an independent risk factor for infection within all four surgical subgroups (Knee: OR 1.85, p < 0.001; Shoulder: OR 1.65, p < 0.001; Spine: OR 1.45, p < 0.001; Long bone: OR 1.28, p < 0.001), and for nonunion in the lumbar fusion (OR 1.38, p < 0.001) and long bone fracture (OR 1.31, p < 0.001) subgroups. Our data suggests that marijuana dependence may be associated with increased rates of infection and nonunion following a variety of orthopaedic procedures. During preoperative evaluation, surgeons may consider marijuana use as a potential risk factor for postoperative complications, especially within the context of marijuana legalization. Future research into this relationship is necessary


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 103-B, Issue SUPP_15 | Pages 43 - 43
1 Dec 2021
Theil C Schmidt-Braekliing T Gosheger G Idelevich EA Dieckmann R Schwarze J Moellenbeck B Puetzler J
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Aims. Periprosthetic fungal infections are rare and account for 1–2% of all periprosthetic joint infections (PJI). This study aims at presenting treatment details, clinical and microbiological results in a large single centre cohort. Methods. We retrospectively identified 29 patients (9 total knee replacements (TKA) and 20 total hip replacements (THA) treated for a fungal infection between 2007 and 2019. Microbiological findings, patient demographics and complications were analysed. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics; non-parametric analysis were performed using the Mann-Whitney U-Test. Infection-free survival was determined using Kaplan-Meier analysis and differences in survival were analysed using the log-rank test. The p value was set at p<0.05 with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) provided. Results. 28% (8/29) suffered from reinfection. The reinfection-free survival probability was 65% (95% CI 45–85) after a median follow- up period of 28 months (IQR 6 – 39). With the numbers we had, we were not able to detect a difference between THA and TKA re-infections (p=0.517). Four patients underwent amputation, 3 patients had a definitive girdlestone hip and eight patients died after a median of 5 months after first-stage surgery (IQR 1–7). All patients treated had positive synovial fluid or tissue cultures for Candida species. In 22 /29 patients C. albicans, in 3 patients C. parapsilosis, in 2 patients C. glabrata and in 1 patient each C. famata, C. dubliniensis and C. gulliermondii. Polymicrobial bacterial infection was found in 86% of patients with staphylococci in 20 patients, E. coli in 2 patients, vancomycin-resistant enterococci, pseudomonas, acinetobacter and achromobacter species in 1 patient each. When investigating risk factors for reinfection, with the numbers we had we were not able to find a significant difference for patients with polymicrobial infection (p=0.974), azole-resistant Candida (p=0.491), tobacco users (p=0.175), or diabetics (p=0.54). Furthermore, median age (73 vs. 72, p=0.756) and Charlson comorbidity score (6 (interquartile range (IQR) 4–8) vs. 8 (IQR 5–10), p=0.184) were not different between the groups while on the other hand there was a trend for a higher body mass index in patients with reinfection (34 (IQR 31–38) vs. 28 (IQR 25–33), p=0.075). Conclusions. Fungal PJI is associated with poor reinfection free survival, frequent revisions, and high mortality. All infections were caused by Candida spp. in which azole-resistance most be considered when planning treatment. While polymicrobial infection complicated treatment there was no difference in survival. A higher BMI and comorbidity score might be associated with higher risk for reinfections


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 103-B, Issue SUPP_2 | Pages 94 - 94
1 Mar 2021
Harrison A
Full Access

Abstract. Objectives. Review the evidence of low intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) for fracture non-union treatment and the potential to treat fractures in patients with co-morbidities at risk of fracture non-union. Methods. Data was gathered from both animal and human studies of fracture repair to provide an overview of the LIPUS in bone healing applications to provide in-depth evidence to substantiate the use in treatment of non-union fractures and to propose a scientific rational to develop a clinical development programme. Results. LIPUS is an effective method for treating fracture non-union, with most studies showing heal rates in the mid 80%. In the UK NICE has published MTG-12 guidance for non-union treatment, which demonstrates that LIPUS is an effective and cost effective method as an alternative to surgery to treat non-union fractures. Basic science studies and evaluation of clinical trial data has led to the understanding that LIPUS can mitigate co-morbidities related to failure of bone healing such as diabetes, advancing age and tobacco use. Future clinical trials will evaluate the use of LIPUS in acute fractures in patients with high risk of low bone healing capacity to prevent the development of a non-union. As with all medical treatments, LIPUS for fracture repair needs to be used appropriately, with poorly fixed fractures or large fracture gaps, being unsuitable for LIPUS treatment. In addition, considerations such as targeting the fracture site in deep-seated bones and clinician / patient engagement to ensure good compliant usage are vital factors to ensure good clinical outcomes. Conclusion. Using basic science research, a thorough knowledge of the mechanism of action has been established, which has elucidated that co-morbidities related to the development of fracture non-union can be mitigated by the LIPUS technology. A pragmatic clinical trial in the United States is currently ongoing to test these hypothesises clinically. Declaration of Interest. (a) fully declare any financial or other potential conflict of interest


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 85-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 193 - 193
1 Mar 2003
Laursen M Christensen F Hansen E Høy K Gelineck J Niedermann B Helmig P Bünger C
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Introduction: In the attempt to improve fusion rates in spondylodesis surgery, focus has been applied on numerous factors, including surgical strategies, instrumentation-devices and –material, technical preparation of the fusion bed, stringency of radiological outcome criteria, patient-related factors such as age, sex, tobacco consumption, and severity of underlying pathology. In recent years the development of new techniques for exploring mechanisms in cellular and molecular biology have further directed focus toward more advanced biological techniques and considerations. To the authors’ knowledge, little or no attention has been focused on one of the basic and important factors in the attempt to achieve fusion, ie the impact of bone graft quantity placed at the fusion bed. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of autologous bone graft quantity in posterolateral instrumented spinal fusion (PLF) in respect to fusion rates. Methods and results: A prospective clinical study in 76 patients, in which CD-instrumented posterolateral lumbar or lumbosacral spine fusion surgery was performed. The quantity of autologous bone graft applied at the fusion bed was recorded peroperatively. Spinal fusion rates were assessed by AP/lateral radiographs at one-year follow-up by two independent observers, according to our strict classification system. The impact of bone graft quantity, tobacco consumption, age and sex of the patients were analysed in respect to fusion-rates by logistic regression. According to our classification “fusion” was seen in 76% of the patients, “non-union” in 12.7% and “doubtful”fusion in 11.3%. In “fusion” segments, the median amount of bone used was 24.4 (13–53) g and 14.7 (12.5–23.4) g in “non-union” segments. The “non-union” rate was 7.1% for non-smokers in contrast to 21.4% for patients who smoked during the first six post-operative months. The impact on fusion rates by graft quantity and cigarette smoking were significant, p< 0.006 respectively 0.035. Age and gender did not influence fusion rates. Thirty-three percent of patients with “non-union” had a corresponding failure of the implant. Conclusions: The quantity of graft used at the fusion bed is critical for successful fusion. Based on the results presented here, we recommend a minimum of 24 g of autogenous bone graft at each intervention segment in auto-grafted posterolateral spinal spondylodesis surgery. In addition, this study underlines the importance of tobacco arrest, in at least the first six post-operative months. The data presented here strongly support the importance of quantifying or optimally standardising the amount of graft placed at each intervention segment


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 102-B, Issue SUPP_6 | Pages 148 - 148
1 Jul 2020
Couture A Davies J Chapleau J Laflamme G Sandman E Rouleau D
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Radial head fractures are relatively common, representing approximately one-third of all elbow fractures. Outcomes are generally inversely proportional to the amount of force involved in the mechanism of injury, with simple fractures doing better than more comminuted ones. However, the prognosis for these fractures may also be influenced by associated injuries and patient-related factors (age, body index mass, gender, tobacco habit, etc.) The purpose of this study is to evaluate which factors will affect range of motion and function in partial radial head fractures. The hypothesis is that conservative treatment yields better outcomes. This retrospective comparative cohort study included 43 adult volunteers with partial radial head fracture, a minimum one-year follow up, separated into a surgical and non-surgical group. Risk factors were: associated injury, heterotopic ossification, worker's compensation, and proximal radio-ulnar joint implication. Outcomes included radiographic range of motion measurement, demographic data, and quality of life questionnaires (PREE, Q-DASH, MEPS). Mean follow up was 3.5 years (1–7 years). Thirty patients (70%) had associated injuries with decreased elbow extension (−11°, p=0.004) and total range of motion (−14°, p=0.002) compared to the other group. Heterotopic ossification was associated with decreased elbow flexion (−9°, p=0.001) and fractures involved the proximal radio-ulnar joint in 88% of patients. Only worker's compensation was associated with worse scores. There was no difference in terms of function and outcome between patients treated nonsurgically or surgically. We found that associated injuries, worker's compensation and the presence of heterotopic ossification were the only factors correlated with a worse prognosis in this cohort of patients. Given these results, the authors reiterate the importance of being vigilant to associated injuries


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 102-B, Issue SUPP_7 | Pages 68 - 68
1 Jul 2020
Pelet S Lechasseur B Belzile E Rivard-Cloutier M
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Radial head fractures are common and mainly require a functional conservative treatment. About 20% of patients will present an unsatisfactory final functional result. There is, however, little data allowing us to predict which patients are at risk of bad evolve. This makes it difficult to optimize our therapeutic strategies in these patients. The aim of this study is to determine the personal and environmental factors that influence the functional prognosis of patients with a radial head fracture. We realized over a 1-year period a prospective observational longitudinal cohort study including 125 consecutive patients referred for a fracture of the radial head in a tertiary trauma center. We originally collected the factors believed to be prognostic indicators: age, sex, socioeconomic status, factors related to trauma or fracture, alcohol, tobacco, detection of depression scale, and financial compensation. A clinical and radiological follow-up took place at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year. The main functional measurement tool is the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH). 123 patients were included in the study. 114 patients required nonsurgical management. 102 patients completed the 1-year follow-up for the main outcome (89 for the DASH score). Two patients required an unplanned surgery and were excluded from analyses. At 1 year, the average MEPS was 96.5 (range, 65–100) and 81% of subjects had an excellent result (MEPS ≥90). The most constant factor to predict an unsatisfactory functional outcome (MEPS <90 or DASH >17) is the presence of depressive symptoms at the initial time of the study (P = 0.03 and P = 0.0009, respectively). This factor is present throughout the follow-up. Other observed factors include a higher socioeconomic status (P = 0.009), the presence of financial compensation (P = 0.027), and a high-velocity trauma (P = 0.04). The severity of the fracture, advanced age, female sex, and the nature of the treatment does not influence the result at 1 year. No factor has been associated with a reduction in range of motion. Most of the radial head fractures heal successfully. We identified for the first time, with a valid tool, the presence of depressive symptoms at the time of the fracture as a significant factor for an unsatisfactory functional result. Early detection is simple and fast and would allow patients at risk to adopt complementary strategies to optimize the result


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 102-B, Issue SUPP_7 | Pages 41 - 41
1 Jul 2020
Tibbo M Houdek M Bakri K Sems S Moran S
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The rate of fracture and subsequent nonunion after radiation therapy for soft-tissue sarcomas and bone tumors has been demonstrated to quite high. There is a paucity of data describing the optimal treatment for these nonunions. Free vascularized fibular grafts (FVFG) have been used successfully in the treatment of large segmental bone defects in the axial and appendicular skeleton, however, their efficacy with respect to treatment of radiated nonunions remains unclear. The purpose of the study was to assess the 1) union rate, 2) clinical outcomes, and 3) complications following FVFG for radiation-induced femoral fracture nonunions. We identified 24 patients who underwent FVFG for the treatment of radiation-induced femoral fracture nonunion between 1991 and 2015. Medical records were reviewed in order to determine oncologic diagnosis, total preoperative radiation dose, type of surgical treatment for the nonunion, clinical outcomes, and postoperative complications. There were 11 males and 13 females, with a mean age of 59 years (range, 29 – 78) and a mean follow-up duration of 61 months (range, 10 – 183 months). Three patients had a history of diabetes mellitus and three were current tobacco users at the time of FVFG. No patient was receiving chemotherapy during recovery from FVFG. Oncologic diagnoses included unspecified soft tissue sarcomas (n = 5), undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) (n = 3), myxofibrosarcoma (n = 3), liposarcoma (n = 2), Ewing's sarcoma (n = 2), lymphoma (n = 2), hemangiopericytoma, leiomyosarcoma, multiple myeloma, myxoid chondrosarcoma, myxoid liposarcoma, neurofibrosarcoma, and renal cell carcinoma. Mean total radiation dose was 56.3 Gy (range, 39 – 72.5), given at a mean of 10.2 years prior to FVFG. The average FVFG length was 16.4 cm. In addition to FVFG, 13 patients underwent simultaneous autogenous iliac crest bone grafting, nine had other cancellous autografting, one received cancellous allograft, and three were treated with synthetic graft products. The FVFG was fixed as an onlay graft using lag screws in all cases, additional fixation was obtained with an intramedullary nail (n = 19), dynamic compression plate (n = 2), blade plate (n = 2), or lateral locking plate (n = 1). Nineteen (79%) fractures went on to union at a mean of 13.1 months (range, 4.8 – 28.1 months). Musculoskeletal Tumor Society scores improved from eight preoperatively to 22 at latest follow-up (p < 0.0001). Among the five fractures that failed to unite, two were converted to proximal femoral replacements (PFR), two remained stable pseudarthroses, and one was converted to a total hip arthroplasty. A 6th case did unite initially, however, subsequent failure lead to PFR. Seven patients (29%) required a second operative grafting. There were five additional complications including three infections, one wound dehiscence, and one screw fracture. No patient required amputation. Free vascularized fibular grafts are a reliable treatment option for radiation-induced pathologic femoral fracture nonunions, providing a union rate of 79%. Surgeons should remain cognizant, however, of the elevated rate of infectious complications and need for additional operative grafting procedures


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 101-B, Issue SUPP_14 | Pages 72 - 72
1 Dec 2019
Yeung C Lichstein P Varady N Bonner B Carrier C Schwab P Maguire J Chen A Estok D
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Aim. Knee arthrodesis (KA) and above knee amputation (AKA) have been used for salvage of failed total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in the setting of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). The factors that lead to a failed fusion and progression to AKA are not well understood. The purpose of our study was to determine factors associated with failure of a staged fusion for PJI and predictive of progression to AKA. Method. We retrospectively reviewed a single-surgeon series of failed TKA for PJI treated with two-stage KA between 2000 and 2016 with minimum 2-year follow-up. Patient demographics, comorbidities, surgical history, tissue compromise, and radiographic data were recorded. Outcomes were additional surgery, delayed union, Visual Analog Pain scale (VAS) and Western Ontario and McMaster Activity score (WOMAC). No power analysis was performed for this retrospective study. Medians are reported as data were not normally distributed. Results. Fifty-one knees underwent fusion with median follow-up of 7 years (interquartile range (IQR) of 2–18 years). Median age was 71 years old (IQR 47 – 98), with a M:F ratio of 23:28. Median BMI was 34.3 kg/m2 (IQR 17.9–61). Infection was eradicated in 47 knees (92.2%); 24 knees (47.0%) required no additional surgery. 41 patients (83.6%) remained ambulatory after knee fusion, with 21% of these patients (10 total) requiring no ambulatory assistive device. Median VAS following arthrodesis was 4.6 (range 0–10). Median WOMAC was 36.2 (range 9–86). Three TKAs (5.9%) underwent AKA for overwhelming infection. Predictors of AKA were chronic kidney disease (OR 4.0, 95% CI 0.6–26.8), peripheral vascular disease (OR 3.5, 95% CI 0.3–44.7), AORI III bone loss (OR 2.6, 95% CI 0.4–35.2), instability (OR 2.2, 95% CI 0.2–15.9), and immunosuppression (OR 1.1, 95% CI 0.1–7.8). Tobacco use (OR 8.6, 95%CI 2.4–31.4), BMI>25 (OR 3.8, 95% CI 0.43–32.5) and instability prior to arthrodesis (OR 2.51, 95% CI 0.77–8.21) were associated with non-union. All other risk factors (gender, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, peripheral vascular disease, massive bone stock loss, and immunosuppression) were not associated with arthrodesis failure. Conclusions. Staged KA for PJI in severely compromised hosts provides a functional limb free of infection and rarely results in conversion to AKA. Given our small sample size, ability to establish statistical significance of predictive factors for AKA after PJI was limited, but CKD, peripheral vascular disease, AORI III bone loss, instability, and immunosuppression trended towards significance as predictors of failure of KA after PJI predisposing to AKA


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 85-B, Issue SUPP_I | Pages 6 - 6
1 Jan 2003
Kesani A Akmal M Enobakhare B Mannering N Goodship A Bentley G
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Nicotine is a constituent of tobacco smoke and is present in the body fluids of smokers. 1,. 2. Numerous studies have confirmed that smoking is a strong risk factor for back pain. 3. The most widely accepted explanation for the association is that smoking leads to malnutrition of spinal discs due to carboxyhaemoglobin formation. However, other constituents of smoke, such as nicotine, may also be responsible for intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration by leading to cell necrosis in both the nucleus pulposus and annulus fibrosis. Despite evidence suggesting the detrimental effect on a variety of tissues, the effect of nicotine on IVD cells has not previously been investigated. This study investigated the influence of nicotine on the metabolism and viability of IVD cells cultured in vitro. Bovine nucleus pulposus (NP) intervertebral disc cells were isolated by sequential digestion of caudal spinal disc nuclei with pronase and collagenase and seeded in 2% alginate at 5x10. 6. cells/ml. The constructs were cultured for 21 days in standard culture medium (DMEM + 20% Fetal calf serum) containing free base nicotine (Sigma) at concentrations ranging from 25nM and 300nM, which reflected the normal physiological concentrations found in the serum of smokers. The medium was replaced every 3 days and representative constructs were removed from culture, digested and assayed for DNA, glycosaminoglycan (GAG) and hydroxyproline content at time points 3, 7, 14 and 21 days. Further constructs were processed for standard histology and immunolocalisation of collagen types I, II and chondroitin-6-sulphate. The results were analysed statistically using an ANOVA test followed by a non-parametric Dunnit’s test. NP cells demonstrated a dose dependent response. At 25nM dose of nicotine there was a significant increase (p< 0.05) in DNA content, GAG and collagen synthesis in the constructs. At 100nM, 200nM and 300nM doses, there was a significant dose dependent decrease (p< 0.05) in all of these parameters compared to controls cultured under nicotine free conditions. In addition, adverse morphological changes were observed on histology, which included reduced cell proliferation, disrupted cell architecture, disintegration of cells and extracellular matrix. Immunohistochemistry showed the production of type I collagen rather than type II collagen as in the controls. Nicotine has an overall detrimental effect on cultured nucleus pulposus disc cells in vitro. There was significant inhibition of cell proliferation and extracellular matrix synthesis. Nicotine in tobacco smoke may therefore play a role in the aetiology of disc degeneration that leads to back pain in smokers


Bone & Joint Research
Vol. 12, Issue 2 | Pages 103 - 112
1 Feb 2023
Walter N Szymski D Kurtz SM Lowenberg DW Alt V Lau E Rupp M

Aims

The optimal choice of management for proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) has been increasingly discussed in the literature, and this work aimed to answer the following questions: 1) what are the incidence rates of PHF in the geriatric population in the USA; 2) what is the mortality rate after PHF in the elderly population, specifically for distinct treatment procedures; and 3) what factors influence the mortality rate?

Methods

PHFs occurring between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2019 were identified from the Medicare physician service records. Incidence rates were determined, mortality rates were calculated, and semiparametric Cox regression was applied, incorporating 23 demographic, clinical, and socioeconomic covariates, to compare the mortality risk between treatments.


Bone & Joint Open
Vol. 4, Issue 10 | Pages 801 - 807
23 Oct 2023
Walter N Szymski D Kurtz SM Lowenberg DW Alt V Lau EC Rupp M

Aims

This work aimed at answering the following research questions: 1) What is the rate of mechanical complications, nonunion and infection for head/neck femoral fractures, intertrochanteric fractures, and subtrochanteric fractures in the elderly USA population? and 2) Which factors influence adverse outcomes?

Methods

Proximal femoral fractures occurred between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2019 were identified from the Medicare Physician Service Records Data Base. The Kaplan-Meier method with Fine and Gray sub-distribution adaptation was used to determine rates for nonunion, infection, and mechanical complications. Semiparametric Cox regression model was applied incorporating 23 measures as covariates to identify risk factors.


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 99-B, Issue SUPP_7 | Pages 90 - 90
1 Apr 2017
Lee G
Full Access

Infection following primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is fortunately a relatively uncommon complication with an incidence of approximately 1%. However, because the morbidity and cost of treatment of deep prosthetic TKA infections is so high, effective prevention strategies are key quality improvement initiatives. The cause of post-operative infections are multifactorial and complex but can generally be categorised into 1) host, 2) surgical, and 3) environmental factors. The purpose of this abstract to provide an outline of these factors and their influences on the infection risk following TKA. Patient factors and optimization of modifiable risk factors have been shown to decrease the risk for infection. While the individual contributions of factors such as body mass index (BMI), diabetes, nutritional status, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), and renal disease are unknown, together, they have been shown to influence infection risk. Additionally, Tayton et al. analyzed 64,566 primary TKAs in the New Zealand Joint Registry and found that male gender and prior knee surgery were also independent risk factors of development of PJI 12 months following TKA. Finally, Crowe and colleagues also identified tobacco use and Staphylococcus aureus colonization as modifiable risk factors for minimizing PJI following primary TKA. Timely administration of prophylactic antibiotics prior and after surgery has been shown to be the most effective strategy to reduce infection risk. The optimal prophylaxis regimen for all patients is unknown and in certain situations, administration of Vancomycin in additional to a conventional cephalosporin may be beneficial. However, universal administration of Vancomycin has not been shown to decrease the incidence of surgical site infections and could actually increase the risk for renal failure. Conversely, addition of antibiotics to cement during primary TKA has not been shown to reduce long term infection risk. The use of dilute betadine lavage has been shown by some authors to be beneficial. Finally, good surgical technique, proper soft tissue handling, and meticulous wound closure are all critical factors influencing the risk for infectious complications following TKA. Environmental factors have also been shown to affect infection rates following TKA. While the use of laminar flow and body exhaust suits have not been shown to significantly influence the risk for infection, minimizing operating room traffic has been shown effective in reducing the risk for contamination. Some authors have shown ultraviolet light systems to decrease airborne contaminants. In summary, factors influencing infection risk following TKA are complex and multifactorial. Patient selection, optimization of modifiable risk factors, appropriate use of antibiotics, and minimization of OR traffic are among the most common strategies to minimizing infection


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 98-B, Issue SUPP_8 | Pages 109 - 109
1 May 2016
Klingenstein G Jain R Schoifet S Reid J Porat M
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Introduction. Rapid recovery protocols (RRP) for joint replacements have been shown to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize adverse outcomes in academic health systems. The purpose of this study is to evaluate if RRP can be safely implemented in a community health system for total knee arthroplasty. Methods. This study used a retrospective cohort of 3,608 patients who underwent primary unilateral total knee arthroplasty from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2014. 60 Patients were excluded because data or surgery could not be verified: BMI less than 18.5 or greater than 60 kg/m∘2 or if the surgical time was less than 45 seconds or greater than 180 minutes, and bilateral surgery. Data was obtained from querying the health system's inpatient database containing information for all joint replacements within the system. Patients were compared in two groups: those who received a RRP after surgery versus those who received traditional post-op care. The main outcome measure was all-cause 30-day readmissions. Multivariate logistic regression was used to calculate the odds for all-cause 30-day readmission for patients who received RRP versus traditional care when controlling for age, gender, race, insurance status (Medicare versus no Medicare), obesity, diabetes, renal disease, tobacco use, and ASA score (less than 3 versus 3 or greater). Results. Patients receiving RRP were readmitted less than those who received traditional care (1.6% versus 3.6%, p<0.001) and had a lower mean length of stay (1.5 versus 3.3 days, p<0.001). When controlling for confounding factors, the odds of 30-day readmission for patients receiving RRP versus traditional care was 0.42 (95% CI 0.26–0.66, p<0.001). Conclusions. Rapid recovery protocols are an effective means of reducing 30-day readmissions and length of stay in patients undergoing primary unilateral total knee arthroplasty in a community setting


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 98-B, Issue SUPP_17 | Pages 58 - 58
1 Nov 2016
Lee G
Full Access

Infection following primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is fortunately a relatively uncommon complication with an incidence of approximately 1%. However, because the morbidity and cost of treatment of deep prosthetic TKA infections is so high, effective prevention strategies are key quality improvement initiatives. The cause of post-operative infections are multifactorial and complex but can generally be categorised into 1) host, 2) surgical, and 3) environmental factors. The purpose of this abstract is to provide an outline of these factors and their influences on the infection risk following TKA. Patient factors and optimization of modifiable risk factors have been shown to decrease the risk for infection. While the individual contributions of factors such as body mass index (BMI), diabetes, nutritional status, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), and renal disease are unknown, together, they have been shown to influence infection risk. Additionally, Tayton et al. analyzed 64,566 primary TKAs in the New Zealand Joint Registry and found that male gender and prior knee surgery were also independent risk factors of development of PJI 12 months following TKA. Finally, Crowe and colleagues also identified tobacco use and Staphylococcus aureus colonization as modifiable risk factors for minimizing PJI following primary TKA. Timely administration of prophylactic antibiotics prior and after surgery has been shown to be the most effective strategy to reduce infection risk. The optimal prophylaxis regimen for all patients is unknown and in certain situations, administration of Vancomycin in additional to a conventional cephalosporin may be beneficial. However, universal administration of Vancomycin has not been shown to decrease the incidence of surgical site infections and could actually increase the risk for renal failure. Conversely, addition of antibiotics to cement during primary TKA has not been shown to reduce long term infection risk. The use of dilute betadine lavage has been shown by some authors to be beneficial. Finally, good surgical technique, proper soft tissue handling, and meticulous wound closure are all critical factors influencing the risk for infectious complications following TKA. Environmental factors have also been shown to affect infection rates following TKA. While the use of laminar flow and body exhaust suits have not been shown to significantly influence the risk for infection, minimizing operating room traffic has been shown effective in reducing the risk for contamination. Some authors have shown ultraviolet light systems to decrease airborne contaminants. In summary, factors influencing infection risk following TKA are complex and multifactorial. Patient selection, optimization of modifiable risk factors, appropriate use of antibiotics, and minimization of OR traffic are among the most common strategies to minimizing infection


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 96-B, Issue SUPP_12 | Pages 69 - 69
1 Jul 2014
Barnett S
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Patient History. This patient is a 59-year-old female who presents with right side hip pain which has gradually progressed over the last 2 years. She describes activity related pain in the right groin radiating down the anterior thigh to the knee. There is also a moderate amount of posterior pain in the ischial region. She is now having pain at night as well as occasional back pain. The patient works as a landscape designer and historically has been quite active participating in yoga, snow skiing, and hiking. These activities have become more limited over the last 12 months. She denies any significant right knee pain and has no radicular complaints. Prior treatment has consisted of physical therapy on two separate occasions over the last year both for 6-week periods without relief. She uses anti-inflammatories daily but otherwise has not had any injections or surgery on the right hip. A cane is used for long distances and her maximum ambulatory capacity is 2 blocks. She is unable to negotiate stairs easily and has difficulty donning socks and shoes. Overall she describes her activity level as light labour. She has no significant past medical or surgical history and takes no medications. The patient is allergic to sulfa drugs. She denies tobacco use. By physical exam she stands 5 feet 4 inches and weighs 150 pounds. Lumbar spine exam shows no tenderness to palpation with negative straight leg raise bilaterally. Right hip exam is consistent with 95 degrees of flexion and 10 degrees extension. Abduction and adduction are 20 degrees and 10 degrees, respectively with 5 degrees of both internal and external rotation. Groin pain is reproduced with passive hip range of motion. Hip flexion and abduction strength are 5/5 with mild tenderness along the greater trochanteric region. Leg lengths are symmetrical. Right knee exam shoes full range of motion with neutral alignment and stability in both the coronal and sagittal planes. Right foot and ankle exam is consistent with normal sensory motor function and palpable dosalis pedis and posterior tibial pulses. X-ray examination demonstrates advanced degenerative changes in the right hip with complete joint space obliteration and early erosive changes in the femoral head. Bone quality shows mild osteoporosis. Impression: Osteoarthritis Right Hip. Plan: Anterior Approach Right Total Hip Arthroplasty


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 94-B, Issue SUPP_III | Pages 82 - 82
1 Feb 2012
Barker S Cox Q
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Late presentation and rapid progression of Dupuytren's contracture significantly increases operating time, complications and likelihood of incomplete correction; however, surgical timing is usually more a function of waiting list length than of clinical criteria. We sought to measure the rate of progress of Dupuytren's contracture. All patients with Dupuytren's contracture referred to the sole Consultant Hand Surgeon for Highland Region between June 1997 and February 2003 were prospectively included. Fixed flexion deformities at each finger joint and thumb-index angle to the point of firm resistance to extension were recorded by a single observer (QGNC) at presentation and immediately pre-operatively. Of 151 participants 37% had a family history. There was a male predominance of 5:1, with bilaterality in 77% at presentation. Five percent had diabetes, 3% had epilepsy, 52% acknowledged tobacco habits and 24% regular alcohol in excess of recommended limits. Angular deterioration was observed in 52% of digits, over one quarter of this occurred at the small finger joints, where 58% of PIPJs progressed. Mean delay from presentation to surgery was 11 months (2-55.5). Mean age at presentation of 62 (16-86) years did not correlate with angular deformity at presentation or with velocity of deterioration or with manual/non-manual employment. Mean severity of deformity at presentation for manual (34°) was double non-manual workers (17°) although angular deterioration was faster in the non-manual group (3.8 cf 0.7°/month respectively). Similar speeds of deterioration were seen at MCPJ and PIPJ, speed of deterioration was 2.2°/month for each of the three ulnar digits. Speed of deterioration correlated (r=0.7) with severity of deformity at presentation for ring and small fingers. This study offers the first quantification of rate of deterioration in Dupuytren's contracture. This could be used as a waiting list tool to predict the delay before a digit is likely to pose increased surgical risk


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 96-B, Issue SUPP_11 | Pages 233 - 233
1 Jul 2014
Ovaska M Mäkinen T Madanat R Kiljunen V Lindahl J
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Summary. Syndesmotic malreduction or failure to restore fibular length are the leading causes for early reoperation after ankle fracture surgery. Anatomic fracture reduction and congruent ankle mortise can be achieved in the majority of cases following revision surgery. Introduction. The goal of ankle fracture surgery is to restore anatomical congruity. However, anatomic reduction is not always achieved, and residual talar displacement and postoperative malreduction predispose a patient to post-traumatic arthritis and poor functional outcomes. The present study aimed to determine the most common surgical errors resulting in early reoperation following ankle fracture surgery. Patients & Methods. We performed a chart review to determine the most common types of malreductions that led to reoperation within the first week following ankle fracture surgery. From 2002 to 2011, we identified 5123 consecutive ankle fracture operations in 5071 patients. 79 patients (1.6%) were reoperated on due to malreduction (residual fracture displacement > 2mm) detected in postoperative radiographs. These patients were compared with an equal number of age- and sex-matched control patients. Surgical errors were classified according to the anatomical site of malreduction: fibula, medial malleolus, posterior malleolus, Chaput-Tillaux fragment, and syndesmosis. Problems related to syndesmotic reduction or fixation were further divided into four categories: malreduction of the fibula in the tibiofibular incisura due to malpositioning of a syndesmotic screw, persistent tibiofibular widening (TFCS > 6 mm), positioning of a syndesmotic screw posterior to the posterior margin of the tibia, and unnecessary use of a syndesmotic screw. Results. The mean patient age was 44 years (18 to 80), and 49% were women. There were no differences between the groups regarding diabetes, tobacco use, peripheral vascular disease, or alcohol abuse. The most common indication for reoperation was syndesmotic malreduction (47 of 79 patients; 59%). Other frequent indications for reoperation were fibular shortening and malreduction of the medial malleolus. We identified four main types of errors related to syndesmotic reduction or fixation, the most common being fibular malreduction in the tibiofibular incisura. The most commonly combined errors were malreductions of the fibula and syndesmosis, which occurred together in 16 of 79 patients (20%). Fracture-dislocation (p = 0.011), fracture type (p = 0.001), posterior malleolar fracture (p = 0.005), associated medial malleolar fracture (p = 0.001), duration of index surgery (p = 0.001), and associated medial malleolar fixation other than with two parallel screws (p = 0.045) were associated with reoperation. Correction of the malreduction was achieved in 84% of reoperated cases. Conclusion. Early reoperation after ankle fracture surgery was most commonly caused by errors related to syndesmotic reduction or failure to restore fibular length. In the majority of cases, postoperative malreduction was successfully corrected in the acute setting


Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 92-B, Issue SUPP_IV | Pages 571 - 571
1 Oct 2010
Drerup B Wetz H Wühr J
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Introduction: Reasons why patients refuse wearing their upper limb prostheses deserve to be studied. Method: Amputees were recruited from the clinics as well as from health- and accident insurances and Veterans’ Service Offices. Questions covered the patients’ medical history of amputation, their prosthetic supply and their present living conditions. 454 participants returned the anonymous questionnaire and could be entered into the study. Amputation was caused by war (287), civil trauma or illness (123) and congenital (44). Age ranged from 3 – 96 years, with mean of 67.8. Distribution regarding sex and side was 411m/43 f and and 211 right/223 left. 20 had bilateral amputation. In 216 patients the dominant side was affected. Level of amputation was: wrist 36, BE 164, elbow 9, AE 201, shoulder 23, forequarter 3, unknown 18. Prosthetic devices were classified as passive (i.e. cosmetic and passive work prostheses) or active, i.e. electrically- or body-powered prostheses as well as the combination of the two. In the statistical analysis null hypothesis was that no factor influences the acceptance rate. Significant differences are accepted when p< 0.05. Results: Electrically-powered prostheses were accepted best. Cosmetic prostheses were accepted well when stigmatization in the context of ethnic origin or religious affiliation may be important. Acceptance rate was influenced by: Country of origin, religious affiliation, sex, learned occupation, therapist involved in training, return to work, incapacity for work, job held after amputation, own initiative in initiating prosthetic care, loss of friends or partners, level of amputation and the combined parameters AE-amputation and non-dominant side. No influence was found for education, age at amputation, marital status, side of amputation, recommendation of prosthesis, time until first prosthetic fitting, phantom pain and phantom feeling, return to sports or hobbies, consumption of tobacco, alcohol or sedatives. Discussion: Looking at all patients, the rates of acceptance of the various prosthetic types equals those found in the relevant literature. However, this study is much more detailed, looking at many different parameters and their combinations and can therefore provide some guidance to the successful prescription of upper limb prostheses. Nowadays electrically-powered prostheses are generally better accepted than all other types and should therefore be provided more often