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.

In 2007, the National Hip Fracture Database (NHFD) was conceived in the United Kingdom (UK) as a national audit aiming to improve hip fracture care across the country. It now represents the world's largest hip fracture registry. The purpose of the NHFD is to evaluate aspects of best practice for hip fracture care, at an institutional level, that reflect the evidence-based clinical guidelines and quality standards developed by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. No national program currently exists, equivalent to the NHFD, in Canada despite evidence suggesting that national audit programs can significantly improve patient outcomes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate aspects of best practice for hip fractures at our Canadian academic tertiary referral center using the Key Performance Indicators (KPI) and benchmarks used by the NHFD. In doing so, we aimed to compare our performance to other hospitals contributing to the NHFD database.

A retrospective cohort study was conducted on consecutive patients who presented to our Canadian center for surgical management of a hip fracture between August 2019 to September 2020. Fracture types included intertrochanteric, subtrochanteric, and femoral neck fractures treated with either surgical fixation or arthroplasty. Cases were identified from the affiliate institute's Operatively Repaired Fractures Database (ORFD). The ORFD prospectively collects patient-level data extracted from electronic medical records, operating room information systems, and from patients’ discharge summaries. All applicable data from our database were compared to the established KPI and benchmarks published by the NHFD that apply to the Canadian healthcare system.

Six hundred and seven patients’ data (64.5% female) were extracted from the ORFD, mean age 80.4 ± 13.3 years. The NHFD contains data from 63,284 patients across the entire UK. The affiliate institute performed inferiorly compared to the NHFD for two KPIs: prompt surgery (surgery by the day following presentation with hip fracture, 52.8% vs. 69%) and prompt mobilization after surgery (mobilized out of bed by the day after operation, 43.0% vs. 81.0%). However, more patients at the affiliate institute were not delirious when tested postoperatively (89.6% vs. 68.4%). There was no significant difference in the average length of stay (12.23 days versus 13.5 days) or in 30-day mortality rate (8.4% versus 8.3%).

More than half of all KPI's and benchmarks for patients receiving a hip fracture surgery at our tertiary referral center in Canada ranked significantly lower than patients receiving a hip fracture surgery in the UK. These findings indicate that perhaps a national audit program should be implemented in Canada to improve aspects of hip fracture care, at an institutional level. Following evidence-based clinical guidelines and using standardized benchmarks would encourage change and foster improvement across Canadian centres when necessary.

Introduction

Circular frames for ankle fusion are usually reserved for complex clinical scenarios. Current literature is heterogenous and difficult to interpret. We aimed to study the indications and outcomes of this procedure in detail.

Introduction

Wide, tumor-like resection for chronic osteomyelitis (COM), a standard practice previously, has been challenged recently with adequate, local debridement. This paper reviews the evolution of surgical debridement for long bone osteomyelitis, and presents the outcome of adequate debridement in a tertiary bone infection unit.

Functional outcomes are important for patients with bone tumors undergoing lower extremity endoprosthetic reconstruction; however, there is limited empirical evidence evaluating function longitudinally. The objective of this study was to determine the changes in function over time in patients undergoing endoprosthetic reconstructions of the proximal femur, distal femur and proximal tibia.

We conducted a secondary analysis of functional outcome data from the Prophylactic Antibiotic Regimens in Tumor Surgery (PARITY) trial. Patient function was assessed with the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society Score 93 (MSTS) and the Toronto Extremity Salvage Score (TESS), which were administered preoperatively and at 3, 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Both instruments are scored from 0-100, with higher scores indicated greater function. Mean functional scores were evaluated over time and we explored for differences among patients undergoing proximal femur reconstructions (PFR), distal femur reconstructions (DFR) and proximal tibia reconstructions (PTR). The patient-importance of statistically significant differences in function was evaluated utilizing the minimally important difference (MID) of 12 for the MSTS and 11 for the TESS. We explored for differences in change scores between each time interval with paired t-tests. Differences based on endoprosthetic reconstruction undertaken were evaluated by analysis of variance and post-hoc comparisons using the Tukey test.

A total of 573 patients were included. The overall mean MSTS and TESS scores were 77.1(SD±21) and 80.2(SD±20) respectively at 1-year post-surgery, demonstrating approximately a 20-point improvement from baseline for both instruments. When evaluating change scores over time by type of reconstruction, PFR patients experienced significant functional improvement during the 3-6 and 6-12 month follow-up intervals, DFR patients demonstrated significant improvements in function at each follow-up interval, and PTR patients reported a significant decrease in function from baseline to 3 months, and subsequent improvements during the 3-6 and 6-12 month intervals.

On average, patients undergoing endoprosthetic reconstruction of the lower extremity experience important improvements in function from baseline within the first year. Patterns of functional recovery varied significantly based on type of reconstruction performed. The results of this study will inform both clinicians and patients about the expected rehabilitation course and functional outcomes following endoprosthetic reconstruction of the lower extremity.

Introduction

Derotation osteotomies are commonly performed in paediatric orthopaedic and limb reconstruction practice. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the use of a digital inclinometer significantly improves the accuracy in attaining the desired correction.

Progressive collapsing foot deformity (PCFD) is a common condition with an estimated prevalence of 3.3% in women greater than 40 years. Progressive in nature, symptomatic flatfoot deformity can be a debilitating condition due to pain and limited physical function; it has been shown to have one of the poorest preoperative patient reported outcome scores in foot and ankle pathologies, second to ankle arthritis. Operative reconstruction of PCFD can be performed in a single-stage manner or through multiple stages. The purpose of this study is to compare costs for non-staged (NS) flatfoot reconstructions, which typically require longer hospital stays, with costs for staged (S) reconstructions, where patients usually do not require hospital admission. To our knowledge, the comparison between single-staged and multi-staged flatfoot reconstructions has not been previously done. This study will run in conjunction with one that compares rates of complications and reoperation, as well as patient reported outcomes on function and pain associated with S and NS flatfoot reconstruction. Overall, the goal is to optimize surgical management of PCFD, by addressing healthcare costs and patient outcomes.

At our academic centre with foot and ankle specialists, we selected one surgeon who primarily performs NS flatfoot reconstruction and another who primarily performs S procedures. Retrospective chart reviews of patients who have undergone either S or NS flatfoot reconstruction were performed from November 2011 to August 2021. Length of operating time, number of primary surgeries, length of hospital admission, and number of reoperations were recorded. Cost analysis was performed using local health authority patient rates for non residents as a proxy for health system costs. Rates of operating room per hour and hospital ward stay per diem in Canadian dollars were used. The analysis is currently ongoing.

72 feet from 66 patients were analyzed in the S group while 78 feet from 70 patients were analyzed in the NS group. The average age in the S and NS group are 49.64 +/− 1.76 and 57.23 +/− 1.68 years, respectively. The percentage of female patients in the S and NS group are 63.89% and 57.69%, respectively. All NS patients stayed in hospital post-operatively and the average length of stay for NS patients is 3.65 +/− 0.37 days. Only 10 patients from S group required hospital admission.

The average total operating room cost including all stages for S patients was $12,303.12 +/− $582.20. When including in-patient ward costs for patients who required admission from S group, the average cost for operating room and in-patient ward admission was $14,196.00 +/− $1,070.01 after flatfoot reconstruction.

The average in-patient ward admission cost for NS patients was $14,518.83 +/− $1,476.94 after flatfoot reconstruction. The cost analysis for total operating room costs for NS patients are currently ongoing. Statistical analysis comparing S to NS flatfoot reconstruction costs are pending.

Preliminary cost analysis suggests that multi-staged flatfoot reconstruction costs less than single-staged flatfoot reconstruction. Once full assessment is complete with statistical analysis, correlation with patient reported outcomes and complication rate can guide future PCFD surgical management.

Introduction

Non-union is an unfortunate outcome of the fracture healing process for some patients; with an estimated annual incidence of 17.4- 18.9 per 100,00. The management of these patients depicts a significant clinical challenge for surgeons and financial burden to health services. External ultrasound stimulation devices (Exogen^TM) have been highlighted as a novel non invasive therapy to achieve union in cases of delayed and non-union. The aim of the current study was to assess the rate of union in patients using Exogen^TM therapy for delayed fracture union in a district general hospital.

Diffuse-type Tenosynovial Giant-Cell Tumour (d-TGCT) of large joints is a rare, locally aggressive, soft tissue tumour affecting predominantly the knee. Previously classified as Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis (PVNS), this monoarticular disease arises from the synovial lining and is more common in younger adults. Given the diffuse and aggressive nature of this tumour, local control is often difficult and recurrence rates are high. Current literature is comprised primarily of small, and a few larger but heterogeneous, observational studies. Both arthroscopic and open synovectomy techniques, or combinations thereof, have been described for the treatment of d-TGCT of the knee.

There is, however, no consensus on the best approach to minimize recurrence of d-TGCT of the knee. Some limited evidence would suggest that a staged, open anterior and posterior synovectomy might be of benefit in reducing recurrence. To our knowledge, no case series has specifically looked at the recurrence rate of d-TGCT of the knee following a staged, open, posterior and anterior approach. We hypothesized that this approach may provide better recurrence rates as suggested by larger more heterogeneous series.

A retrospective review of the local pathology database was performed to identify all cases of d-TGCT or PVNS of the knee treated surgically at our institution over the past 15 years. All cases were treated by a single fellowship-trained orthopaedic oncology surgeon, using a consistent, staged, open, posterior and anterior approach for synovectomy. All cases were confirmed by histopathology and followed-up with regular repeat MRI to monitor for recurrence. Medical records of these patients were reviewed to extract demographic information, as well as outcomes data, specifically recurrence rate and complications. Any adjuvant treatments or subsequent surgical interventions were noted.

Twenty-three patients with a minimum follow-up of two years were identified. Mean age was 36.3 at the time of treatment. There were 10 females and 13 males. Mean follow-up was seven and a half years. Fourteen of 23 (60.9%) had no previous treatment. Five of 23 had a previous arthroscopic synovectomy, one of 23 had a previous combined anterior arthroscopic and posterior open synovectomy, and three of 23 had a previous open synovectomy. Mean time between stages was 87 days (2.9 months). Seven of 23 (30.4%) patients had a recurrence. Of these, three of seven (42.9%) were treated with Imatinib, and four of seven (57.1%) were treated with repeat surgery (three of four arthroscopic and one of four open).

Recurrence rates of d-TGCT in the literature vary widely but tend to be high. In our retrospective study, a staged, open, anterior and posterior synovectomy provides recurrence rates that are lower than rates previously reported in the literature. These findings support prior data suggesting this approach may result in better rates of recurrence for this highly recurrent difficult to treat tumour.

Acromioclavicular joint injuries are one of the most common injuries in the shoulder girdle complex. Surgical management is considered based on patient profile, level of activity, pain, and classification of injury. To date, a vast array of surgical techniques have been proposed and described in the literature, a possible reason being that the optimal solution is still uncertain. The aim of this study is to determine the efficacy of an alternative surgical technique.

This study is a retrospective case series of 80 patients that have been operated by a single surgeon over a period of 6 years. A novel surgical technique, the ‘BiPOD method’, was applied where a synthetic artificial ligament (LARS®) is used to reconstruct and reduce the acromioclavicular joint.

The technique is done in a reproducible manner, where a single continuous artificial ligament is used to reduce and reconstruct both, the coracoclavicular and acromioclavicular ligament complexes to achieve bidirectional stability. Patients were followed-up postoperatively, either clinically where possible or telephonically. The Acromioclavicular Joint Instability Score (ACJI) and radiographic measurements were used to determine the clinical and surgical outcome of the surgery.

Radiographic parameters, measuring the reduction of the coracoclavicular- and acromioclavicular joint, were analysed and documented. The results showed marked improvement in both, the coracoclavicular distance and acromioclavicular distance. Clinically, using the ACJI scoring system, the patients reported substantial improvement in pain and function. Complications were recorded but were insignificant.

The BiPOD surgical technique, making use of an artificial LARS® ligament, has proven acceptable outcomes in the surgical management of acromioclavicular joint dislocations.

The presence of metastatic bone disease (MBD) often necessitates major orthopaedic surgery. Patients will enter surgical care either through emergent or electively scheduled care pathways. Patients in a pain crisis or with an acute fracture are generally admitted via emergent care pathways whereas patients with identified high-risk bone lesions are often booked for urgent yet scheduled elective procedures. The purpose of this study is to compare the post-operative outcomes of patients who present through emergent or electively scheduled care pathways in patients in a Canadian health care system.

We have conducted a retrospective, multicenter cohort study of all patients presenting for surgery for MBD of the femur, humerus, tibia or pelvis in southern Alberta between 2006 and 2021. Patients were identified by a search query of all patients with a diagnosis of metastatic cancer who underwent surgery for an impending or actual pathologic fracture in the Calgary, South and Central Alberta Zones. Subsequent chart reviews were performed. Emergent surgeries were defined by patients admitted to hospital via urgent care mechanisms and managed via unscheduled surgical bookings (“on call list”). Elective surgeries were defined by patients seen by an orthopaedic surgeon at least once prior to surgery, and booked for a scheduled urgent, yet elective procedure. Outcomes include overall survival from the time of surgery, hospital length of stay, and 30-day hospital readmission rate.

We have identified 402 patients to date for inclusion. 273 patients (67.9%) underwent surgery through emergent pathways and 129 patients (32.1%) were treated through urgent, electively scheduled pathways. Lung, prostate, renal cell, and breast cancer were the most common primary malignancies and there was no significant difference in these primaries amongst the groups (p=0.06). Not surprisingly, emergent patients were more likely to be treated for a pathologic fracture (p<0.001) whereas elective patients were more likely to be treated for an impending fracture (p<0.001). Overall survival was significantly shorter in the emergent group (5.0 months, 95%CI: 4.0-6.1) compared to the elective group (14.9 months 95%CI: 10.4-24.6) [p<0.001]. Hospital length of stay was significantly longer in the emergent group (13 days, 95%CI: 12-16 versus 5 days, 95%CI: 5-7 days). There was a significantly greater rate of 30-day hospital readmission in the emergent group (13.3% versus 7.8%) [p=0.01].

Electively managed MBD has multiple benefits including longer post-operative survival, shorter length of hospital stay, and a lower rate of 30-day hospital readmission. These findings from a Canadian healthcare system demonstrate clinical value in providing elective orthopaedic care when possible for patients with MBD. Furthermore, care delivery interventions capable of decreasing the footprint of emergent surgery through enhanced screening or follow-up of patients with MBD has the potential to significantly improve clinical outcomes in this population. This is an ongoing study that will justify refinements to the current surgical care pathways for MBD in order to identify patients prior to emergent presentation. Future directions will evaluate the costs associated with each care delivery method to provide opportunity for health economic efficiencies.

Abstract

There is a need for non-radiographic, objective outcome measures for children with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS). Standing balance and stability is altered in children with AIS. The Margin of Stability (MoS) has been used to compare gait stability in clinical populations. Our objective was to compare the MoS in anterior-posterior (MoS_AP) and mediolateral (MoS_ML) directions in girls with AIS to Controls.

Girls with AIS and healthy girls walked at three speeds on an instrumented treadmill wearing retroreflective markers, surrounded by motion capture cameras. The MoS_AP/ML was calculated at left and right heel strike. Data was processed in Visual 3D. A two-way ANOVA was used to compare MoS_AP/ML between group, speed and the interaction between group and speed. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to compare the MoS to Cobb angle. Statistical significance was accepted when p > 0.05.

A priori power analysis suggested 12 participants per group. Three Cases and four Controls were recruited. Girls with AIS all had right-sided main thoracic curves (Lenke type 1a, 61.3° ± 10.0°). MoS_AP was significantly bigger for Cases compared to Controls on the left (p=0.038) and right foot (p=0.041). There was no significant difference between Cases and Controls for MoS_ML, but there was a visual trend for a smaller MoS_ML in Cases. There was no significant difference for speed or the interaction between group and speed for MoS_AP or MoS_ML. In Cases, MoS_AP increased with increasing Cobb angle on the left (r²=0.687, p=0.054) and right (r²=0.634, p=0.067) and MoS_ML decreased with increasing Cobb angle on the left (r²=-0.912, p=0.002). Further subjects are being recruited.

Girls with Lenke type 1a AIS are more stable in the AP direction and less stable in the ML direction than Controls during treadmill walking. AP stability increases and ML stability decreases with increasing Cobb angle. This research suggests that the MoS could be used as an outcome measure for children with AIS. Continued work is required to increase the power of this study. Further work could consider these changes during walking overground, measuring an MoS or MoS-like measure using a wearable device, and in different curve types.

Cartilage lesions vary in the spectrum from benign enchondromas to highly malignant dedifferentiated chondrosarcomas. From the treatment perspective, enchondromas are observed, Grade 1 chondrosarcomas are curetted like aggressive benign tumors, and rest are resected like other sarcomas. Although biopsy for tissue diagnosis is the gold standard for diagnosis and grade determination in chondrosarcoma, tumor heterogeneity limits the grading in patients following a biopsy. In the absence of definite pre-treatment grading, a surgeon is therefore often in a dilemma when deciding the best treatment option. Radiology has identified aggressive features and aggressiveness scores have been used to try and grade these tumors based on the imaging characteristics but there have been very few published reports with a uniform group and large number of cases to derive a consistent scoring and correlation.

The authors asked these study questions :(1) Does Radiology Aggressiveness and its Score correlate with the grade of chondrosarcoma? (2) Can a cut off Radiology Agressiveness Score value be used to guide the clinician and add value to needle biopsy information in offering histological grade dependent management?

A retrospective analysis of patients with long bone extremity intraosseous primary chondrosarcomas were correlated with the final histology grade for the operated patients and Radiological parameters with 9 parameters identified a priori and from published literature (radiology aggressiveness scores - RAS) were evaluated and tabulated. 137 patients were identified and 2 patients were eliminated for prior surgical intervention. All patients had tissue diagnosis available and pre-treatment local radiology investigations (radiographs and/or CT scans and MRI scans) to define the RAS parameters.

Spearman correlation has indicated that there was a significant positive association between RAS and final histology grading of long bone primary intraosseous chondrosarcomas. We expect higher RAS values will provide grading information in patients with inconclusive pre-surgery biopsy to tumor grades and aid in correct grade dependant surgical management of the lesion. Prediction of dedifferentiated chondrosarcoma from higher RAS will be attempted and a correlation to obtain a RAS cut off, although this may be challenging to achieve due to the overlap of features across the intermediate grade, high grade and dedifferentiated grades.

Radiology Aggressiveness correlates with the histologic grade in long bone extremity primary chondrosarcomas and the correlation of radiology and biopsy can aid in treatment planning by guiding us towards a low-grade neoplasm which may be dealt with intralesional extended curettage or high-grade lesion which need to be resected. Standalone RAS may not solve the grading dilemma of primary long bone intraosseous chondrosarcomas as the need for tissue diagnosis for confirming atypical cartilaginous neoplasm cannot be eliminated, however in the event of a needle biopsy grade or inconclusive open biopsy it may guide us towards a correlational diagnosis along with radiology and pathology for grade based management of the chondrosarcoma.

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.

To investigate whether anterior pelvic plane-pelvic tilt (APP-PT) is associated with distinct hip pathomorphologies, we asked: (1) Is there a difference in APP-PT between symptomatic young patients eligible for joint preservation surgery and an asymptomatic control group? (2) Does APP-PT vary between distinct acetabular and femoral pathomorphologies? (3) Does APP-PT differ in symptomatic hips based on demographic factors?

IRB-approved, single-center, retrospective, case-control, comparative study in 388 symptomatic hips (357) patients (mean age 26 ± 2 years [range 23 to 29], 50% females) that presented to our tertiary center for joint preservation over a five year-period. Patients were allocated to 12 different morphologic subgroups. The overall study group was compared to a control group of 20 asymptomatic hips (20 patients). APP-PT was assessed in all patients based on AP pelvis X-rays using the validated HipRecon software. Values between overall and control group were compared using an independent samples t-test. Multiple regression analysis was performed to examine the influences of diagnoses and demographic factors on APP-PT. Minimal clinically important difference (MCID) of APP-PT was defined as >1 standard deviation.

No significant differences in APP-PT between the control group and overall group (1.1 ± 3.0° [−4.9 to 5.9] vs 1.8 ± 3.4° [−6.9 to 13.2], p = 0.323) were observed. Acetabular retroversion and overcoverage groups showed higher APP-PT compared to the control group (both p < 0.05) and were the only diagnoses with significant influence on APP-PT in the stepwise multiple regression analysis. However, all observed differences were below the MCID. Demographic factors age, gender, height, weight and BMI showed no influence on APP-PT.

APP-PT across different hip pathomorphologies showed no clinically significant variation. It does not appear to be a relevant contributing factor in the evaluation of young patients eligible for hip preservation surgery.

To quantify the acetabular coverage of the femoral head, Lequesne's vertical-center-anterior edge (VCA) angle is used on the false profile view. Lateral coverage is determined by Wiberg's lateral-center-edge (LCE) angle on an ap pelvic view. The delimitation of the weightbearing area is defined by the end of the subchondral sclerosis line for both views. To our knowledge the exact anatomic location of the points used for measurement on the acetabular rim are not known.

Six hips from three cadaver pelvises (3 male and 3 female) were investigated. The anterior and lateral points of interested were identified radiographically using fluoroscopy and marked with 1mm ceramic bullets. Standard false profile views and ap pelvic views in neutral inclination and rotation were taken to check the correct location of the ceramic bullets. A CT of each pelvis was made to locate the ceramic bullets and to define the exact anatomic location of the measurement points on the o'clock position. 6 o‘clock was defined as the midpoint between anteroinferior and the posteroinferior rim edges. Values were normalized for a right hip.

The mean clockface location for the VCA was 1:33 (range, 1:15 to 1:40) and for the LCE 0:38 (range, 0:20 to 0:50).

The LCEA is slightly anterior to the 12 o'clock position and remains useful to quantify the lateral coverage. Surprisingly, the point used for measuring the VCA is only about 30° (1h) anterior of the point used for measuring the LCEA. Its value for determining anterior cover has to be questioned. The discrepancy to other studies in the literature is because this study identifies and measures the end of the weight bearing zone, and not the border of the bony acetabulum.

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.

Abstract

The bone-patellar tendon-bone (BTB) autograft is associated with difficulty kneeling following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, however it is unclear whether it results in a more painful or symptomatic knee when compared to the hamstring tendon autograft. This study aimed to identify the rate of significant knee pain and difficulty kneeling following primary ACL reconstruction and clarify whether graft type influences the risk of these complications.

Primary ACL reconstructions prospectively recorded in the New Zealand ACL Registry between April 2014 and November 2019 were analyzed. The Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) was analyzed to identify patients who reported significant knee pain, defined as a KOOS Pain subscale score of ≤72 points, and kneeling difficulty, defined as a patient who reported “severe” or “extreme” difficulty when they kneel. The rate of knee pain and kneeling difficulty was compared between graft types via univariate Chi-square test and multivariate binary logistic regression with adjustment for patient demographics.

4492 primary ACL reconstructions were analyzed. At 2-year follow-up, 9.3% of patients reported significant knee pain (420/4492) and 12.0% reported difficulty with kneeling (537/4492). Patients with a BTB autograft reported a higher rate of kneeling difficulty compared to patients with a hamstring tendon autograft (21.3% versus 9.4%, adjusted odds ratio = 3.12, p<0.001). There was no difference between graft types in the rate of significant knee pain (9.9% versus 9.2%, p = 0.49) or when comparing absolute values of the KOOS Pain (mean score for BTB = 88.7 versus 89.0, p = 0.37) and KOOS Symptoms subscales (mean score for BTB = 82.5 versus 82.1, p = 0.49).

The BTB autograft is a risk factor for post-operative kneeling difficulty, but it does not result in a more painful or symptomatic knee when compared to the hamstring tendon autograft.

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.

Abstract

Aim

Staphylococcus aureus (SA) can cause various infections and is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates of up to 40%. Antibiotic treatment often fails to eradicate SA infections even if the causative strain has been tested susceptible in vitro. The mechanisms leading to this persistence is still largely unknown. In our work, we to reveal SA interactions with host cells that allow SA to persist at the site of infection.

Periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) is the preferred treatment for symptomatic acetabular dysplasia in adolescents and young adults. There remains a lack of consensus regarding whether intra-articular work such as labral repair or improvement of femoral offset should be performed at the time of PAO or addressed subsequent to PAO if symptoms warrant. The purpose was to determine the rate of subsequent hip arthroscopy (HA) in a contemporary PAO cohort with no intra-articular work performed at the time of PAO.

From June 2012 to March 2022, 368 rectus sparing PAOs were performed and followed for a minimum of one year (mean 5.9 years). The average age was 24 (range 14–46) and 89% were female. Patients were evaluated at last follow-up for patient-reported outcomes (PROMs). Clinical records were reviewed for complications or subsequent surgery. Radiographs were reviewed for the following acetabular parameters: LCEA, ACEA, AI, and the alpha-angle (AA). Patients were cross-referenced from the two largest hospital systems in our area to determine if subsequent HA was performed. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze risk factors for HA.

16 hips (15 patients) (4.4%) underwent subsequent HA with labral repair and femoral osteochondroplasty most common. For those with a minimum of two years of follow-up, 5.3% underwent subsequent HA. No hips underwent THA; one revision PAO was performed. 14 hips experienced a complication and 99 underwent hardware removal. All PROMs improved significantly post-operatively. Radiographically 80% of hips were in goal for acetabular correction parameters with no significant differences between those who underwent subsequent HA and those who did not.

Rectus sparing PAO is associated with a low rate of subsequent HA for intra-articular pathology at 5-year follow-up. Acetabular correction alone may be sufficient as the primary intervention for the majority of patients with symptomatic acetabular dysplasia.

Oxidized zirconium (Oxinium) and highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE) were developed with the purpose of minimizing wear, and subsequent osteolysis, in Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA). However, few articles have been published on long-term results of Oxinium on highly cross-linked polyethylene. The purpose of this investigation is to report minimum 10-year HXLPE wear rates and the clinical outcome of patients in this group and compare this population to a control group of cobalt chrome and ceramic.

One hundred forty THAs were performed for 123 patients using an Oxinium head with an HXLPE liner. Ninety-seven had 10 years of clinical follow-up (avg. 14.5). Harris Hip Scores (HHS) were collected preoperatively and at the most recent follow-up. Radiographs of 85 hips were available for a minimum 10-year follow-up (avg. 14.5) and used to calculate wear using PolyWare software. Control groups of cobalt chrome and ceramic articulation on HXLPE with a minimum 10-year follow-up were studied.

Clinical follow-up of the Oxinium group showed a statistical improvement compared to preoperative and was similar to the control group of patients. Radiographic evaluation found the linear and volumetric wear rates for the Oxinium group of 0.03 mm/year (range 0.00–0.08) and 3.46 mm³/year (range 1.0 to 15.0) respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in linear or volumetric wear rate between the groups (P-value 0.92 and 0.55 respectively). None of these patients underwent revision of their hip for any reason.

Oxinium on highly cross-linked polyethylene has performed exceptionally with wear rates comparable to those of cobalt chrome or ceramic on HXLPE.

Our unit historically performed total hip replacement (THR) through either posterior or anterolateral approaches. In November 2020 a group of 5 consultants transitioned to utilising the Direct Anterior Approach (DAA). Appropriate training was undertaken and cases were performed as dual consultant procedures with intraoperative radiography or robotic assistance.

Outcomes were collated prospectively. These included basic demographics, intraoperative details, complication rates and Oxford Hip Scores.

A total of 48 patients underwent DAA THR over 1 year. Mean age was 67 and ASA 2. Over this time period 140 posterior approach and 137 anterolateral approach THR's were performed with available data. Propensity score matching was performed on a 1:1 basis using BMI, Age, Sex and ASA as covariates to generate a matched cohort group of conventional approach THR (n=37)

Length of stay was significantly reduced at 1.95 days (p<0.001) with DAA compared to Anterolateral and Posterior approach. There was no significant difference with length of surgery, blood loss, Infection, dislocation and periprosthetic fracture rate. There was no significant difference in Oxford Hip Score between any approach at 3 months or 1 year.

The transition to this approach has not made a negative impact despite its associated steep learning curve, and has improved efficiency in elective surgery. From our experience we would suggest those changing to this approach receive appropriate training in a high-volume centre, and perform cases as dual consultant procedures.

To conduct a meta-analysis for intertrochanteric hip fractures comparing in terms of efficacy and safety short versus long intralomedullary nails.

A pubmed search of the last 10 years for intertrochanteric fracture 31A1-31A3 according to the AO/OTA classification was performed. Baseline characteristics of each article were obtained, complication measures were analyzed: Peri-implant fracture, reoperations, deep/superficial infection, and mortality. Clinical variables consisted of blood loss (mL), length of stay (days), time of surgery (min) and nº of transfusions. Functional outcomes were also recorded. A meta-analysis was performed with Review Manager 5.4.

Twelve studies were included, nine were retrospective. The reoperations rate was lower in the short nail group and the peri-implant fracture rate was lower in the long nail group (OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.38 to 0.88) (OR 1.88, 95% CI 1.04 to 3.43). Surgery time and blood loss was significantly higher in the long nail group (MD −12.44, 95% CI −14.60 to −10.28) (MD −19.36, 95% CI −27.24 to −11.48). There were no differences in functional outcomes.

The short intramedullary nail has a higher risk of peri-implant fracture; however, the reoperation rate is lower compared to the long nail. Blood loss and surgery time was higher in the long nail group.

Hip and knee joint arthroplasty wait list has been getting outrageously long in South Africa with some tertiary hospital reporting more than 5 years of waiting time. This has been further compounded by covid 19 pandemic. There is plateau of ideas on how best to address the backlogs in high volume tertiary centers, with catchup list, out reach program, private partnership seeming unsustainable. We sought to look for sustainable solution to the problem and we looked not far but inside the system.

Patients undergoing total hip or knee arthroplasty (THA/TKA) are commonly associated with high pain scores and narcotic use. Duloxetine is effective in relieving chronic pain. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of duloxetine for pain management following THA/TKA.

Five major databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Science) were searched for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared duloxetine to placebo in patients that underwent THA/TKA. The primary outcome was pain reduction with rest and movement at short-term and long-term time intervals. Secondary outcomes were the use of analgesics, length of stay, and safety profile. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane tool. Data were pooled using RevMan 5.4. The results were reported as mean difference (MD) or standardised MD (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Eight RCTs with 767 patients were included. 50.2% (n=385/767) of patients received duloxetine. After one day, duloxetine was superior to the control regarding pain reduction with rest (SMD= −0.22 [−0.41, −0.03], p=0.02) after sensitivity analysis and pain reduction at movement (SMD= −0.39 [−0.55, −0.24], p<0.001). Similarly, after 12 weeks, duloxetine significantly reduced pain with rest (SMD= −0.3 [−0.52, −0.09], p=0.006) and pain with movement (SMD= −0.52 [−0.87, −0.17], p=0.003). In addition, after sensitivity analysis, duloxetine was associated with less analgesic use after one day (MD= −4.65 [−7.3, −2.01], p<0.001) and two days (MD= −5.65 [−10.62, −0.67], p=0.03). Patients who received duloxetine also required fewer analgesics after three days. However, there was no significant difference between the duloxetine and control groups in analgesic use after one week, length of stay, and adverse events.

Duloxetine was superior to the placebo regarding short-term and long-term pain reduction with rest and movement following THA/TKA. Duloxetine reduced postoperative analgesic use. There was no significant difference between duloxetine and placebo regarding adverse events and length of stay.

Advances in total hip and knee replacement technologies have heretofore been largely driven by corporate marketing hype with each seeming advancement accompanied by a cost increase often out in front of peer-reviewed reports documenting their efficacy or not.

As example, consider the growing use of ceramic femoral heads in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). The question to consider is “Can an upcharge of $350 for a ceramic femoral head in primary THA be justified?” The answer to this question lies in an appreciation of whether the technology modifies the potential for costly revision arthroplasty procedures.

Peer-Reviewed Laboratory & Clinical Review - According to the 2022 Australian National Joint Replacement Registry, the four leading causes of primary THA failure requiring revision are: 1.) infection, 2.) dislocation/instability, 3.) periprosthetic fracture and 4.) loosening, which constitute 87.5% of the reported reasons for revision.

Focusing on these failure modes, hip simulator findings report that ceramic femoral heads dramatically reduce wear debris generation, decreasing the potential for osteolytic response leading to loosening. Further, ceramic materials enable the utilization of larger head sizes, avoiding the potential for dislocation. The overall mid- to long-term survival rate reported in the peer-reviewed, clinical literature for these bearings has exceeded 95% with virtually no osteolysis.

Also, could bearing surface choice influence periprosthetic joint infection (PJI)? A study on a total of more than 10,500 primary THA procedures reported a confirmed PJI incidence of 2.4% for cobalt-chrome and 1.6% for ceramic femoral heads, suggesting that the employ of a ceramic bearing surface may also play a role in decreasing the potential for infection.

Review of the clinical data available for ceramic bearings justifies that it is better to “pay me now than to pay orders of magnitude later”, if in fact a revision THA can be avoided, significantly reducing the overall financial burden to the healthcare system.

Abstract

Dual Mobility (DM) Total Hip Replacements (THRs) were introduced to reduce dislocation risk, which is the most common cause of early revision. The in-vivo mechanics of these implants is not well understood, despite their increased use in both elective and trauma settings. Therefore, the aim of this study was to comprehensively assess retrieved DM polyethylene liners for signs of damage using visual inspection and semi-quantitative geometric assessment techniques.

Retrieved DM liners (n=20) were visually inspected for the presence of seven established modes of polyethylene damage. If embedded debris was identified on the external surface, its material composition was characterised using energy-dispersive x-ray analysis (EDX). Additionally, each liner was geometrically assessed for signs of wear/deformation using a validated methodology.

Visual inspection of the liners revealed that scratching and pitting were the most common damage modes on either surface. Burnishing was observed on 50% and 15% of the internal and external surfaces, respectively. In addition, embedded debris was identified on 25% of the internal and 65% of the external surfaces. EDX analysis of the debris identified several materials including iron, titanium, cobalt-chrome, and tantalum. Geometric analysis demonstrated highly variable damage patterns across the liners.

The results of this study provide insight into the in-vivo mechanics of DM bearings. For example, the results suggest that the internal bearing (i.e., between the head and liner) acts as the primary articulation site for DM-THRs as evidenced by a higher incidence of burnishing and larger, more concentrated regions of penetration across the liners’ internal surfaces. Furthermore, circumferential, and crescent-shaped damage patterns were identified on the articulating surfaces of the liners thus providing evidence that these components can rotate within the acetabular shell with varying degrees of mobility. The mechanics of DM bearings are complex and may be influenced by several factors (e.g., soft tissue fibrosis, patient activities) and thus further investigation is warranted.

Finally, the results of this study suggest that DM liners may be susceptible to ex-vivo surface damage and thus caution is advised when handling and/or assessing these types of components.

Abstract

Excessive resident duty hours (RDH) are a recognized issue with implications for physician well-being and patient safety. A major component of the RDH concern is on-call duty. While considerable work has been done to reduce resident call workload, there is a paucity of research in optimizing resident call scheduling. Call coverage is scheduled manually rather than demand-based, which generally leads to over-scheduling to prevent a service gap. Machine learning (ML) has been widely applied in other industries to prevent such issues of a supply-demand mismatch. However, the healthcare field has been slow to adopt these innovations. As such, the aim of this study was to use ML models to 1) predict demand on orthopaedic surgery residents at a level I trauma centre and 2) identify variables key to demand prediction.

Daily surgical handover emails over an eight year (2012-2019) period at a level I trauma centre were collected. The following data was used to calculate demand: spine call coverage, date, and number of operating rooms (ORs), traumas, admissions and consults completed. Various ML models (linear, tree-based and neural networks) were trained to predict the workload, with their results compared to the current scheduling approach. Quality of models was determined by using the area under the receiver operator curve (AUC) and accuracy of the predictions. The top ten most important variables were extracted from the most successful model.

During training, the model with the highest AUC and accuracy was the multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARS) model, with an AUC of 0.78±0.03 and accuracy of 71.7%±3.1%. During testing, the model with the highest AUC and accuracy was the neural network model, with an AUC of 0.81 and accuracy of 73.7%. All models were better than the current approach, which had an AUC of 0.50 and accuracy of 50.1%. Key variables used by the neural network model were (descending order): spine call duty, year, weekday/weekend, month, and day of the week.

This was the first study attempting to use ML to predict the service demand on orthopaedic surgery residents at a major level I trauma centre. Multiple ML models were shown to be more appropriate and accurate at predicting the demand on surgical residents as compared to the current scheduling approach. Future work should look to incorporate predictive models with optimization strategies to match scheduling with demand in order to improve resident well being and patient care.

Background

BANDAIDE aka Back and Neck Discomfort relief with Altered behaviour, Intelligent Postures, Dynamic movement and Exercises (ISBN - 0995676933) is a concise self-help booklet containing strengthening exercises and illustrated information to enable patients self-manage their back and neck pain. The aim of this preliminary audit was to determine patient opinion on BANDAIDE. Institutional audit approval was obtained – No. 8429.

Aim

There are no definitive criteria for the definition of osteomyelitis in the hand and wrist and published case series are small. It remains a relatively uncommon, but difficult to treat problem. We present a series of 30 cases from 2016 to 2021 from a tertiary referral centre. We propose that the principles of thorough surgical debridement, dead space management, skeletal stabilisation and culture driven antibiotic therapy are the key to management of osteomyelitis in the hand and wrist. In addition, we show how these basic principles can be used for both functional and aesthetic impact for the wrist and digits with illustrated cases.

High energy pelvic injury poses a challenging setting for the treating surgeon. Often multiple injuries are associated, which makes the measurement of short- and long-term functional outcomes a difficult task. The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence of pelvic dysfunction and late impacts of high energy pelvic ring fractures on pelvic floor function in women, with respect to urinary, sexual and musculoskeletal function. This was compared to a similar cohort of women with lower limb fractures without pelvis involvement.

The data in our study was prospectively gathered between 2010 and 2013 on 229 adult females who sustained injury between 1998 and 2012. Besides demographic and operative variables, the scores of three validated health assessment tools were tabulated: King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ), Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the Short Musculoskeletal Functional Assessment (SMFA). A multivariate regression analysis was done to compare groups.

The incidence of sexual dysfunction was 80.8% in the pelvis and 59.4% in the lower extremity group. A Wilcoxon rank sum test showed a significant difference in KHQ-score (p<0.01) with the pelvis group being worse. When adjusting for age, follow-up and Injury Severity Score this difference was not significant (p=0.28), as was for FSFI and SMFA score. The mean FSFI scores of both groups met the criteria for female sexual dysfunction (<26). Patients with a Tile C fracture have better FSFI scores (16.98) compared to Tile B fractures (10.12; p=0.02). Logistic regression predicting FSFI larger than 26.5 showed that older age and pelvic fractures have a higher likelihood having a form of sexual dysfunction.

Sexual dysfunction after lower extremity trauma is found in patients regardless of pelvic ring involvement. Urinary function is more impaired after pelvic injuries, but more data is needed to confirm this. Older age and pelvic fracture are predictors for sexual dysfunction in women. This study is important as it could help counsel patients on the likelihood of sexual dysfunction, something that is probably under-reported and recognized during our patient follow up.

Gram-negative prosthetic joint infections (GN-PJI) present unique challenges in management due to their distinct pathogenesis of biofilm formation on implant surfaces. To date, there are no animal models that can fully recapitulate how a biofilm is challenged in vivo in the setting of GN-PJI. The purpose of this study is to establish a clinically representative GN-PJI in vivo model that can reliably depict biofilm formation on titanium implant surface. We hypothesized that the biofilm formation on the implant surface would affect the ability of the implant to be osseointegrated.

The model was developed using a 3D-printed, medical-grade titanium (Ti-6Al-4V), monoblock, cementless hemiarthroplasty hip implant. This implant was used to replace the femoral head of a Sprague-Dawley rat using a posterior surgical approach. To induce PJI, two bioluminescent Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) strains were utilized: a reference strain (PA14-lux) and a mutant strain that is defective in biofilm formation (DflgK-lux). PJI development and biofilm formation was quantitatively assessed in vivo using the in vivo imaging system (IVIS), and in vitro using the viable colony count of the bacterial load on implant surface. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) was acquired to assess the involvement of periprosthetic tissue in vivo, and the field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) of the explanted implants was used to visualize the biofilm formation at the bone-implant interface. The implant stability, as an outcome, was directly assessed by quantifying the osseointegration using microCT scans of the extracted femurs with retained implants in vitro, and indirectly assessed by identifying the gait pattern changes using DigiGaitTM system in vivo.

A localized prosthetic infection was reliably established within the hip joint and was followed by IVIS in real-time. There was a quantitative and qualitative difference in the bacterial load and biofilm formation between PA14 and DflgK. This difference in the ability to persist in the model between the two strains was reflected on the gait pattern and implant osseointegration.

We developed a novel uncemented hip hemiarthroplasty GN-PJI rat model. This model is clinically representative since animals can bear weight on the implant. PJI was detected by various modalities. In addition, biofilm formation correlated with implant function and stability. In conclusion, the proposed in vivo GN-PJI model will allow for more reliable testing of novel biofilm-targeting therapetics

The purpose of this study was to assess the knowledge acquired from completing online case-based e-learning modules. A secondary objective was to identify how students use these independent resources and gauge their level of support for this novel instructional strategy.

Fourth year medical students were randomized to either a module or control group. Both groups received the standard musculoskeletal medical school curriculum, while the students in the module group were also given access to case-based online modules created to illustrate and teach important orthopaedic concepts related to unique clinical presentations. The first module depicted an athlete with an acute knee dislocation while the second module portrayed a patient with hip pain secondary to femoral acetabular impingement (FAI). All participating students completed a knowledge quiz designed to evaluate the material presented in the module topics, as well as general musculoskeletal concepts taught in the standard curriculum. Following the quiz, the students were invited to share their thoughts on the learning process in a focus- group setting, as well as an individual survey. Demographic data was also collected to gauge student's exposure to and interest in orthopaedics, emergency medicine, anatomy and any prior relevant experience outside of medicine.

Twenty-five fourth year medical students participated in the study with 12 randomized to the module group and 13 to the control group. The regression revealed students in the module group did on average 18.5 and 31.4 percentage points better on the knee and hip quizzes respectively, compared to the control group, which were both significant with a p-value < 0.01. Additionally, students who had completed an orthopaedics elective did 20 percentage points better than those who had not, while there was no significant improvement in students who had just completed their core orthopaedics rotation. The feedback collected from the survey and small group discussion was positive with students wishing more modules were available prior to musculoskeletal clinical skills sessions and their orthopaedics rotations.

Medical students given access to online case-based e-learning modules enjoyed the innovative teaching strategy and performed significantly better on knowledge quizzes than their classmates who only received the standard musculoskeletal curriculum.

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the hip is the most common indication for total hip replacement (THR). Obesity is a risk factor for the development of OA and has recently resulted in patients requiring THRs at much younger ages to relieve pain at the joint capsule and restore mobility. However, the impact of obesity on THR mortality is not well understood.

An updated systematic review was performed to identify whether an obese BMI should influence patient selection for surgery. Specifically, the impact of obesity on short-term mortality, long-term mortality, and peri- and post-operative complications was assessed with a particular focus on BMI classes.

A comprehensive literature search of Ovid Medline and EMBASE in November 2022 identified relevant papers in accordance with PRISMA methodology. After removing duplicates, 2988 articles underwent strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, resulting in 12 papers for analysis.

There was no statistically significant difference in mortality risk between obese and non-obese populations. Obesity was associated with a lower risk of short-term mortality than in the normal weight control group, however there was an increased mortality risk in obese patients long-term likely due to comorbidities. Obese patients were significantly younger than normal BMI and underweight patients. However, the paper found increased mortality risk in underweight and morbidly obese patients.

Obese patients did not have an increased risk of mortality when compared to non-obese patients following THR. Obesity may have a protective effect on mortality up to a BMI of 40kg/m2, although this may be influenced by the obesity paradox which states only the healthiest obese individuals are selected for surgery, which could attribute to a lower mortality risk. The greatest risk of mortality and complication was associated with underweight patients. As a result, a BMI greater than 30kg/m2 may not necessitate a hip replacement contraindication. It is important surgeons apply careful consideration and comprehensive risk assessment on patients who require a THR, especially at the BMI extremes.

Abstract

Use of ultrasonic bone scalpel (UBS) is becoming popular in spinal surgery. This study presents the safety profile of UBS for posterior release in surgical correction of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS).

From 2016 to 2018, UBS (Misonix) was used by the senior author in a variety of spinal operations. Data for intraoperative complications when this devise was used for posterior correction of AIS were collected. Revision cases were excluded.

UBS was used for posterior release of AIS in 65 patients (58 female, seven male) with an average age of 15.6 years (range 11–23). Average length of posterior instrumentation was 12 levels (range 6–14). Instrumentation was exclusively from T2 to L4. To achieve adequate release for correction, UBS was used to perform a total of 644 modified in-situ chevron osteotomies (average ten, range six to 12) and 31 rib osteotomies. Overall, three complications (4.6 %) were directly related to the use of UBS: one haemopneumothorax, which was successfully treated with a chest drain; and two loss of motor-evoked potentials during monitoring, which led to the postponement of the final correction. These two patients did not have any neurological problems and their surgery was completed successfully within 1 week of the initial surgery. One late deep infection was reported. This was not thought to be directly related to the use of UBS.

Use of UBS in the posterior surgical treatment of AIS appears to be relatively safe with a low level of acceptable complications. However, appropriate training is required for the use of UBS.

The aim of this investigation is to firstly quantify the burden of disease, and secondly qualify the organisms being cultured during debridement to establish their sensitivities to available antibiotics. This study will also look at the concomitant burden of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Diabetes Mellitus (DM) in cases of hand sepsis, to establish whether these two disease processes require special consideration and treatment tailoring.

The method employed to collect the data will be retrospective collection of patient information, using random sampling. Included patients will be adult patients who undergo debridement and have a sample registered on the National Health Laboratory System (NHLS). The daily intake sheet will be used to collect patients details and these details will then be used to collect results of intra-operative specimens using the NHLS. These patient details will also be used to check patients’ HIV results and HBA1c (Glycated Haemoglobin A1c) results.

Majority of the specimens revealed Methicillin Sensitive Staphylococcus Aureus (MSSA), with a reassuringly low rate of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) when compared to international data. The yield of patients tested for HIV or DM was lower than expected, despite this being the standard of care.

The projected impact of this study will be assessment of the current burden of disease and then clarification of our current management strategy, in order to assess if it would be possible to change to a more cost-effective antibiotic with a narrower spectrum of bacteria coverage. The potential exists to not only implement cost saving measures, but also promote antibiotic stewardship by decreasing the practice of empiric broad-spectrum antibiotic use.

The purposes of this study were to report the accuracy of stem anteversion for Exeter cemented stems with the Mako hip enhanced mode and to compare it to Accolade cementless stems.

We reviewed the data of 25 hips in 20 patients who underwent THA through the posterior approach with Exeter stems and 25 hips in 19 patients with Accolade stems were matched for age, gender, height, weight, disease, and approaches. There was no difference in the target stem anteversion (20°–30°) between the groups. Two weeks after surgery, CT images were taken to measure stem anteversion.

The difference in stem anteversion between the plan and the postoperative CT measurements was 1.2° ± 3.8° (SD) on average with cemented stems and 4.2° ± 4.2° with cementless stems, respectively (P <0.05). The difference in stem anteversion between the intraoperative measurements and the postoperative CT measurements was 0.75° ± 1.8° with Exeter stems and 2.2° ± 2.3° with Accolade stems, respectively (P <0.05).

This study demonstrated a high precision of anteversion for Exeter cemented stems with the Mako enhanced mode and its clinical accuracy was better with the cemented stems than that with the cementless stems. Although intraoperative stem anteversion measurements with the Mako system were more accurate with the cemented stems than that with the cementless stem, the difference was about 1° and the accuracy of intra-operative anteversion measurements was quite high even with the cementless stems. The smaller difference in stem anteversion between the plan and postoperative measurements with the cemented stems suggested that stem anteversion control was easier with cemented stems under the Mako enhanced mode than that with cementless stems.

Intraoperative stem anteversion measurement with Mako total hip enhanced mode was accurate and it was useful in controlling cemented stem anteversion to the target angle.

Aim

Debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR) is a viable treatment option for acute periprosthetic joint infections (PJI). The landmark DATIPO trial of Bernard et al. concluded that six weeks is not non-inferior to 12-week antibiotic therapy for DAIR. However, it is unknown if suppressive antibiotic treatment (SAT) would improve patient outcomes. Therefore, our study aims to evaluate the utility of SAT after 12 weeks of therapy.

Background

Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Immersive virtual reality (IVR) can be delivered using head mounted display (HMD) to interact with 3D virtual environment (VE). IVR has shown promising results in management of chronic pain conditions, using different mechanisms (e.g., exposure to movement and distraction). However, it has not been widely tested for CLBP. Future development of IVR intervention needs inputs from gatekeepers to determine key considerations, facilitators and barriers. This qualitative study aimed to explore views and opinions of physiotherapists about IVR intervention for adults with CLBP.

Abstract

In the Unites States, approximately 24% of people undergoing primary total knee or total hip arthroplasty (TKA, THA) are chronic opioid users pre-operatively. Few studies have examined the incidence of opioid use prior to TKA/THA and whether it predicts outcomes post-surgery in the Australian context. The aim was to determine: (i) the proportion of TKA and THA patients who use opioids regularly (daily) pre-surgery; (ii) if opioid use pre-surgery predicts (a) complication and readmission rates to 6-months post-surgery, (b) patient-reported outcomes to 6-months post-surgery.

A retrospective cohort study was undertaken utilising linked individual patient-level data from two independent databases comprising approximately 3500 people. Patients had surgery between January 2013 and June 2018, inclusive at Fairfield and Bowral Hospitals.

Following data linkage, analysis was completed on 1185 study participants (64% female, 69% TKA, mean age 67 (9.9)). 30% were using regular opioids pre-operatively. Unadjusted analyses resulted in the following rates in those who were vs were not using opioids pre-operatively (respectively); acute adverse events (39.1% vs 38.6%), acute significant adverse events (5.3% vs 5.7%), late adverse events: (6.9% vs 6.6%), total significant adverse events: (12.5% vs 12.4%), discharge to inpatient rehab (86.4% vs 88.6%), length of hospital stay (5.9 (3.0) vs 5.6 (3.0) days), 6-month post-op Oxford Score (38.8 (8.9) vs 39.5 (7.9)), 6 months post-op EQ-VAS (71.7 (20.2) vs 76.7 (18.2), p<0.001), success post-op described as “much better” (80.2% vs 81.3%).

Adjusted regression analyses controlling for multiple co-variates indicated no significant association between pre-op opioid use and adverse events/patient-reported outcomes.

Pre-operative opioid use was high amongst this Australian arthroplasty cohort and was not associated with increased risk of adverse events post-operatively. Further research is needed in assessing the relationship between the amount of pre-op opioid use and the risk of post-operative adverse events.