Aims. Current National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidance advises that MRI direct from the emergency department (ED) should be considered for suspected scaphoid fractures. This study reports the current management of suspected scaphoid fractures in the UK and assesses adherence with NICE guidance. Methods. This national cross-sectional study was carried out at 87 NHS centres in the UK involving 122 EDs and 184 minor injuries units (MIUs). The primary outcome was availability of MRI imaging direct from the ED. We also report the specifics of patient management pathways for suspected scaphoid fractures in EDs, MIUs, and orthopaedic services. Overall, 62 of 87 centres (71%) had a guideline for the management of suspected scaphoid fractures. Results. A total of 11 of 87 centres (13%) had MRI directly available from the ED. Overall, 14 centres (17%) used cross-sectional imaging direct from the ED: MRI in 11 (13%), CT in three (3%), and a mixture of MRI/CT in one (1%). Four centres (6%) used cross-sectional imaging direct from the MIU: MRI in three (4%) and CT in two (2%). Of 87 centres’ orthopaedic specialist services, 74 (85%) obtained repeat radiographs, while the most common form of definitive imaging used was MRI in 55 (63%), CT in 16 (19%), mixture of MRI/CT in three (3%), and radiographs in 11 (13%). Conclusion. Only a small minority of centres currently offer MRI directly from the ED for patients with a suspected scaphoid fracture. Further research is needed to investigate the facilitators and barriers to the implementation of NICE guidance. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(11):997–1003

Aims. The number of females within the speciality of trauma and orthopaedics (T&O) is increasing. The aim of this study was to identify: 1) current attitudes and behaviours of UK female T&O surgeons towards pregnancy; 2) any barriers faced towards pregnancy with a career in T&O surgery; and 3) areas for improvement. Methods. This is a cross-sectional study using an anonymous 13-section web-based survey distributed to female-identifying T&O trainees, speciality and associate specialist surgeons (SASs) and locally employed doctors (LEDs), fellows, and consultants in the UK. Demographic data was collected as well as closed and open questions with adaptive answering relating to attitudes towards childbearing and experiences of fertility and complications associated with pregnancy. A descriptive data analysis was carried out. Results. A total of 226 UK female T&O surgeons completed the survey. All regions of the UK were represented. Overall, 99/226 (44%) of respondents had at least one child, while 21/226 (9.3%) did not want children. Median age at first child was 33 years (interquartile range 32 to 36). Two-thirds (149/226; 66%) of respondents delayed childbearing due to a career in T&O and 140/226 (69%) of respondents had experienced bias from colleagues directed at female T&O surgeons having children during training. Nearly 24/121 (20%) of respondents required fertility assistance, 35/121 (28.9%) had experienced a miscarriage, and 53/121 (43.8%) had experienced obstetric complications. Conclusion. A large proportion of female T&O surgeons have and want children. T&O surgeons in the UK delay childbearing, have experienced bias and have high rates of infertility and obstetric complications. The information from this study will support female T&O surgeons with decision making and assist employers with workforce planning. Further steps are necessary in order to support female T&O surgeons having families. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(12):970–979

With the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, remote working has been ubiquitously implemented to reduce disease transmission via minimization of in-person interactions. Low back pain (LBP) is the first cause of disability worldwide and is frequently reported by workers with sedentary occupations. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the role of remote working in a population of adults affected by LBP through an online questionnaire. We enrolled 136 teleworkers affected by LBP. A total of 101 responses were received and 93 suitable questionnaires were included in the final analysis. Demographic data, remote working features and tasks, and LBP burden were analysed. The psychological burden of remote working was evaluated with the World Health Organization Five Well-Being Index (WHO-5) and the Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2). LBP severity was evaluated using a visual analog scale (VAS). LBP-related disability was assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). The effect of LBP on working capacity was examined with the Occupational Role Questionnaire (ORQ). Independent risk factors related to LBP worsening were identified using a multivariate logistic regression model. LBP severity was significantly higher compared to previous in-person working (p<0.0001) as well as average weekly work hours (p<0.001). Furthermore, the risk of LBP deterioration was associated with being divorced (OR: 4.28, 95% CI: 1.27-14.47; p=0.019) or living with others (OR: 0.24, 95% CI: 0.07-0.81; p=0.021), higher ill-being (OR: 0.91, 95% CI: 0.83-0.99; p=0.035) and depression scores (OR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.00-1.91; p=0.048), as well as having reported unchanged (OR: 0.22, 95% CI: 0.08-0.65; p=0.006) or decreased job satisfaction (OR: 0.16, 95% CI: 0.05-0.54; p=0.003) and increased stress levels (OR: 3.00, 95% CI: 1.04-8.65; p=0.042). These findings highlight key factors to consider for improving remote workers’ physical and mental wellbeing and decrease their LBP burden

Abstract. Objectives. 1. To describe the epidemiology of metacarpal shaft fractures (MSF) in adults. 2. To evaluate the variation in practice and document complications following usual care. 3. To explore factors associated with treatment modality. 4. To document hospital resource use following MSF. Methods. A multi-centre, retrospective, cross-sectional study of MSF at six centres. The healthcare records, operative notes and imaging of adults presenting within 10 days of a MSF, affecting the second to fifth metacarpal between 1st August 2016 to 31st July 2017, were reviewed. Total number of Emergency Department (ED) attendances were used to calculate prevalence. Data analyses are primarily descriptive with 95% confidence intervals to quantify uncertainty in estimates. Results. Of 837, 212 ED attendances, 793 patients (75% male, 25% female), with 897 MSF were eligible, a prevalence of 0.1%. The median age was 27 years (16–97); the highest incidence was in males aged between 16 and 24 years. The most common fracture pattern was transverse. While 83% were treated non-surgically overall, this varied across centres. Twelve different types of non-surgical and six different types of surgical treatment were used. Multi-fragmentary fracture patterns were most likely to be treated surgically and long oblique least likely. Fracture pattern, complexity, displacement and age were associated with treatment modality. Patients treated surgically required more radiographs, longer radiographic and outpatient follow-up and were more likely to be referred for therapy. 5% (39/793) experienced a complication. 20% (160/783) failed to attend at least one or more clinic appointments. Conclusions. MSF are a common injuries, predominantly affecting young males of working age. There is variation in mode and type of treatment, with the majority treated non-surgically in the selected centres. Despite a low complication rate, they require considerable secondary care resources. Further research into the optimal treatment modality for these injuries is needed. Declaration of Interest. (b) declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research reported:I declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research project

Introduction. Studies have addressed the issue of increasing prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal (MSK) pain among different occupations. However, contributing factors to MSK pain have not been fully investigated among orthopaedic surgeons. Thus, this study aimed to approximate the prevalence and predictors of MSK pain among Saudi orthopaedic surgeons working in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Methods. A cross-sectional study using an electronic survey was conducted in Riyadh. The questionnaire was distributed through email among orthopaedic surgeons in Riyadh hospitals. Standardized Nordic questionnaires for the analysis of musculoskeletal symptoms were used. Descriptive measures for categorical and numerical variables were presented. Student’s t-test and Pearson’s χ2 test were used. The level of statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Results. The response rate was 80.3%, with a total number of 179 of Saudi orthopaedic surgeons (173 males and six females). Of our sample, 67.0% of the respondents complained of having MSK pain. The most commonly reported MSK pain was lower back (74.0%), followed by neck (58.2%). Age and body mass index were implicated in the development of more than one type of MSK pain. Increased years of experience (≥ 6 years) was linked to shoulder/elbow, lower back, and hip/thigh pain. Smoking is widely associated with lower back pain development, whereas physicians who do not smoke and exercise regularly reported fewer pain incidences. Excessive bending and twisting during daily practice have been correlated with increased neck pain. Conclusion. MSK pain was found to be common among Saudi orthopaedic surgeons. Further extensive research should be conducted to understand and analyze the risk factors involved and search for possible improvements to avoid further complications. However, ergonomics education during surgical training could be effective at modifying behaviors and reducing MSK pain manifestations

Musculoskeletal disorders have been recognised as common occupational risks for all orthopaedic surgeons. The nature of tasks performed by hip surgeons often requires both forceful and repetitive manoeuvres, potentially putting them at higher risk of musculoskeletal injuries compared to other orthopaedic sub-specialities. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of musculoskeletal conditions among hip surgeons and evaluate the association between their workplace and lifestyle factors and musculoskeletal health.

An online questionnaire consisting of 22 questions was distributed to UK-based consultant hip surgeons via email and social media platforms. This survey was completed by 105 hip surgeons.

The mean age of the respondents was 49 years (range 35–69), with an average of 12 years (range 1–33) in service. 94% were full-time and 6% worked part-time. 49% worked at a district general hospital, 49% at a tertiary centre and 4% at a private institution. 80% were on the on-call rota and 69% had additional trauma commitments. 91% reported having one or more, 50% with three or more and 13% with five or more musculoskeletal conditions. 64% attributed their musculoskeletal condition to their profession. The most common musculoskeletal conditions were base of thumb arthritis (22%), subacromial impingement (20%), degenerative lumbar spine (18%) and medial or lateral epicondylitis (18%). 60% stated that they experienced lower back pain. Statistical analysis showed that being on the on-call rota was significantly (P<0.001) associated with a higher musculoskeletal burden. Regular resistance and/or endurance training and BMI<30 were statistically significant protective factors (P<0.001).

Over the last few decades, most of the hip-related literature has focused on improving outcomes in patients, yet very little is known about the impact of hip surgery on the musculoskeletal health of hip surgeons. This study highlights a high prevalence of musculoskeletal conditions among UK-based hip surgeons. Hip surgeons have a pivotal role to play in the ongoing recovery of elective orthopaedics services. There is a pressing need for the identification of preventative measures and improvement in the surgical environment of our hip surgeons.

Introduction. Mechanically assisted crevice corrosion (MACC) in metal-on-polyethylene (MOP) total hip arthroplasty (THA) is of concern, but its prevalence, etiology and natural history are incompletely understood. Methods. From January 2003 to December 2012, 1356 consecutive THA surgeries using a titanium stem, cobalt chromium alloy femoral head, highly crosslinked polyethylene and a tantalum or titanium acetabular shell were performed. Patients were followed at 1 year, and 5 year intervals for surveillance, but also seen earlier if they had symptoms. Any patient with osteolysis or unexplained pain underwent exam, radiographs, CBC, ESR and CRP, as well as serum cobalt (Co) and chromium (Cr) level. MARS MRI was performed if the Co level was > 1 ppb. Results. Symptomatic MACC was present in 39/1356 patients (2.9%). Yearly MACC prevalence ranged from 0 % (0/139, 2005) to 9.9 % (16/162, 2009). 22/39 (56%) patients have undergone revision surgery, and 17/39 (44%) have opted for ongoing surveillance. Of the surveillance patients, serial serum metal ion levels appear to increase over time. Time of symptoms is correlated with tissue necrosis at time of revision. Conclusions. The prevalence of MACC in MOP hips is higher in this cross-sectional study than previously reported. The highest prevalence was found in 2009 with this vendor. Based on how common this finding is in symptomatic patients from 2009, we may consider asking asymptomatic patients to obtain baseline serum ion levels. The goal of our ongoing research is to understand how to avoid permanent soft tissue loss from adverse local tissue reactions caused by MACC

Purposes and background

Low back pain (LBP) is a common condition with substantial associated disability and costs, best understood using a biopsychosocial approach. Research demonstrates LBP beliefs are important, with biomedical beliefs influencing practitioner's management. LBP beliefs can be inconsistent amongst medical students. The aim of this study was to investigate graduate medical student's beliefs of LBP and what influences them.

Higher uric acid levels or hyperuricemia is a product of more uric acid production, dysfunctional renal excretion, or a combination of both leading to deposition of urate crystals in the joints and kidneys and has been strongly linked with the development of gout, that is, acute inflammatory arthritis. Uric acid levels have been suggested to depend on multiple factors including lifestyle, diet, alcohol consumption, etc. As these are risk parameters for hyperuricemia and since lifestyle choices vary amongst different Indian communities, we sought to study the prevalence of hyperuricemia in these communities. Also, large-scale data (in terms of gender, age, lifestyle, community) on the prevalence of hyperuricemia in subjects amongst different community populations, Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, and Christian was generated.

In a retrospective study conducted at Dr. D. Y. Patil School of Medicine & Research Centre, Navi Mumbai from April 2018 to May 2021, information was gathered from four major communities on a range of indicators including serum uric acid levels followed by a thorough multilevel logistic analysis. We evaluated uric acid levels in 10,378 patients of four different communities. Outcomes were assessed biochemically as well as clinically based on the levels of serum uric acid.

The mean serum uric acid levels were highest in Sikhs (7.6 mg%, n=732) followed by Christians (7.3 mg%, n=892) and then by Hindus (5.9 mg%, n=6846) and Muslims (5.6 mg%, n=1908). About 83.7% of Christians consumed meat in a non-vegetarian diet followed by 45.7% Muslims. Percentage of Christians who binge drink were highest whereas percentage of Sikh people in the heavy drinkers’ category were 5.2%. Further, 9.5% Hindus were current smokers followed by 7.8% Sikhs who smoked at present.

Overall, our study of 10,378 patients demonstrated that the serum uric acid levels varied from one Indian community to another due to varying external factors like diet, age, lifestyle, and addictions. Thus, lifestyle modification in communities with higher serum uric acid levels is highly advocated and this may reduce the healthcare burden of gouty arthritis in these communities.

Introduction: There is a general trend and even demand of using evidence-based methods in the practice of medicine. Especially in orthopedic surgery, which is a specialty traditionally employing treatments with obvious effectiveness, evidence-based clinical decision-making has become a strong trend. Yet all evidence-based decisions are only as sound as the evidence they are based on. In other studies, we could show that only 1 in 3 controlled orthopaedic trial accounts for confounding, and that there is even conflict in the results of meta-analyses, which are supposed to produce the highest level of evidence. This study asked how high the quality of evidence in orthopaedic research really is, and, thus, whether it would be applicable in “evidence”-based orthopaedics. Method: All 2006 controlled trials from orthopedic journals with high impact-factor are analyzed in a cross-sectional study. A score based on the CONSORT statement was used to assess study quality. This score assesses power analyses, prospectiveness, randomization, allocation concealment and observer blinding, intention-to-treat, and how losses during follow-up were addressed. We also assessed whether there was an association between the test score and variables such as area of research and participation of a researcher with methodological training. Finally we tested the inter-observer reliability of our test between an investigator with postgraduate training in biostatistics and epidemiology and an orthopaedic resident with no specific methodological training beyond medical school. Results: The overall quality of 126 studies was moderate to high, with an average score of 3.4 ± 1.7. The most neglected parameters were power analysis, intention-to-treat, and concealment. There were significant differences in results by area of research (p=0.022). The highest values were seen in oncology (4.6 ± 1.4) and osteoarthritis (4.4 ± 1.8), the lowest in traumatology (2.9 ± 1.3). The participation of a methodologically trained investigator increases study quality significantly (p=0.002). There is no difference in study quality whether there is statistically significant result or not (p=0.497). There was a 81.2% agreement, suggesting that study quality can be judged regardless of “specific training”. Conclusion: We found good to high values for orthopaedic evidence on our scale, suggest high validity and applciability. We also saw that this instrument can be used without methodological training. However, there seems to be neglect of some important study features like power analyses, intention-to-treat, and concealment. Heightened awareness of this problem will help to increase the quality of orthopaedic evidence, and thus the clinical applicability of evidence-based orthopaedics

Background. Evidence supports that dysfunction of descending inhibition (endogenous analgesic (EA) modulation) contributes towards chronic pain conditions. Research suggests that manual therapy may influence EA modulation; however, this is poorly understood. Trials testing the effect of sustained digital pressure, a commonly used manual therapy technique, using pain pressure threshold (PPT) would give us a better understanding of the influence of manual therapy on EA modulation. A measurement of PPT has been shown to be most effective using fingertip pressure due to the palpatory feedback of symptomatic tissues. Design. A cross-sectional observational study, utilizing a repeated measure approach. Aim. The aim of this research study is to provide preliminary data on the variability of pressure in sustained fingertip pressure in comparison to algometer guided pressure. Methods. Utilizing a pressure algometer, 26 participants were used to test the variability of fingertip pressure in comparison to algometer guided pressure, over 120 seconds. In a randomized order and utilizing two sheets of skin, participants tried to attain, and sustain, a targeted pressure. In the fingertip pressure condition, participants were blinded to the exerted pressure. Conclusion. It was determined that, on average, participants were able to attain the target pressure, but this was highly variable from trial to trial. The test-retest measurement concluded that participants' accuracy was reproducible. Participants were not reproducible in variability when completing the test-retest measurement. There was a relatively higher variability with the lower pressures tested. The order in which the trial was performed, and type of skin did not affect the variability. It was concluded that, whilst some practitioners appear to have a high degree of accuracy with low variability of sustained finger-tip pressure, across a sample population this was not the case bringing into question the mechanism of effect of this common manual therapy technique. Conflict of interest: None. Funding: None

Osteoporosis can cause significant disability and cost to health services globally. We aim to compare risk fractures for both osteoporosis and fractures at the L1-L4 vertebrae (LV) and the neck of femurs (NOFs) in patients referred for DEXA scan in the North-West of England.

Data was obtained from 31546 patients referred for DEXA scan in the North-West of England between 2004 and 2011. Demographic data was retrospectively analysed using STATA, utilising chi-squared and t-tests. Logistical models were used to report odds ratios for risk factors included in the FRAX tool looking for differences between osteoporosis and fracture risk at the LV and NOFs.

In a study involving 2530 cases of LV fractures and 1363 of NOF fractures, age was significantly linked to fractures and osteoporosis at both sites, with a higher risk of osteoporosis at NOFs compared to LV. Height provided protection against fractures and osteoporosis at both sites, with a more pronounced protective effect against osteoporosis at NOFs. Weight was more protective for NOF fractures, while smoking increased osteoporosis risk with no site-specific difference. Steroids were unexpectedly protective for fractures at both sites, with no significant difference, while alcohol consumption was protective against osteoporosis at both sites and associated with increased LV fracture risk. Rheumatoid arthritis increased osteoporosis risk in NOFs and implied a higher fracture risk, though not statistically significant compared to LV. Results summarised in Table 1.

Our study reveals that established osteoporosis and fracture risk factors impact distinct bony sites differently. Age and rheumatoid arthritis increase osteoporosis risk more at NOFs than LV, while height and steroids provide greater protection at NOFs. Height significantly protects LV fractures, with alcohol predicting them. Further research is needed to explore risk factors’ impact on additional bony sites and understand the observed differences’ pathophysiology.

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

Aims

Virtual fracture clinics (VFCs) are advocated by recent British Orthopaedic Association Standards for Trauma and Orthopaedics (BOASTs) to efficiently manage injuries during the COVID-19 pandemic. The primary aim of this national study is to assess the impact of these standards on patient satisfaction and clinical outcome amid the pandemic. The secondary aims are to determine the impact of the pandemic on the demographic details of injuries presenting to the VFC, and to compare outcomes and satisfaction when the BOAST guidelines were first introduced with a subsequent period when local practice would be familiar with these guidelines.

Background

The pattern of appearance of secondary ossification centers in the elbow has been based on historical studies and is popularly referred to with the mnemonic CRITOL. However the six secondary ossification centers can be variable in their presentation and pose a challenge in assessment of children with elbow injuries. Furthermore limited studies available in the current literature have reported an aberration to the sequence of appearance especially with the ossification centers of trochlea and olecranon.

Aims. The aims of this study were to describe the epidemiology of metacarpal shaft fractures (MSFs), assess variation in treatment and complications following standard care, document hospital resource use, and explore factors associated with treatment modality. Methods. A multicentre, cross-sectional retrospective study of MSFs at six centres in the UK. We collected and analyzed healthcare records, operative notes, and radiographs of adults presenting within ten days of a MSF affecting the second to fifth metacarpal between 1 August 2016 and 31 July 2017. Total emergency department (ED) attendances were used to estimate prevalence. Results. A total of 793 patients (75% male, 25% female) with 897 MSFs were included, comprising 0.1% of 837,212 ED attendances. The annual incidence of MSF was 40 per 100,000. The median age was 27 years (IQR 21 to 41); the highest incidence was in men aged 16 to 24 years. Transverse fractures were the most common. Over 80% of all fractures were treated non-surgically, with variation across centres. Overall, 12 types of non-surgical and six types of surgical treatment were used. Fracture pattern, complexity, displacement, and age determined choice of treatment. Patients who were treated surgically required more radiographs and longer radiological and outpatient follow-up, and were more likely to be referred for therapy. Complications occurred in 5% of patients (39/793). Most patients attended planned follow-up, with 20% (160/783) failing to attend at least one or more clinic appointments. Conclusion. MSFs are common hand injuries among young, working (economically active) men, but there is considerable heterogeneity in treatment, rehabilitation, and resource use. They are a burden on healthcare resources and society, thus further research is needed to optimize treatment. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(8):652–661

Background: A recent change in the Belgian law lead to the obligation of evaluating the musculoskeletal system among employees using visual display terminal (VDT) during the routine annual visit. We conducted a cross-sectional study to determine prevalence of and risk factors for musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS) and disorders (MSD) in general, and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) in particular. Methods: During the routine annual visit all VDT employees of different kinds of companies and occupations were asked about upper extremity MSS by their occupational physician. Participants who met the criteria for MSS within the last month were physically examined in search of a MSD in general, and CTS in particular. Prevalences were calculated, and key risk factors for MSS and CTS were determined using logistic regression analyses. Results: The total prevalence of any upper extremity MSS among 1087 VDT-employees was 31.3%. Neck symptoms (21.6%) were the most frequently reported, followed by shoulder (21.6%), elbow/forearms (4.1%), hands/wrists (7.3%), and finger (5.2%) symptoms. The prevalence of CTS depended on the diagnostic criteria used: 1.8% for symptom-specific CTS (typical anatomical distribution of numbness and paresthesias), 1.2% for examination-confirmed CTS (at least one positive provocative test, Tinel’s nerve percussion test or Phalen’s wrist flexion test), and 0.2% for electrophysiologically-confirmed CTS (abnormal nerve conduction tests). Logistic regression analyses identified increasing age, female gender, the duration of professional VDT use per day, a history of thyroid diseases, and a history of rheumatoid arthritis as significant and independent factors associated with MSS. Adaptation of the work-place was associated with a lower likelihood of MSS. Only increasing age and female gender were identified as significant and independent factors associated with CTS (symptom-specific and examination-confirmed CTS). Job-related factors were not significantly associated with an increased risk for CTS. Conclusions: Our study confirms the high prevalence of MSS among Belgian visual display terminal users (more than 30%). Two work-related factors were clearly associated with MSS: the duration of professional VDT use per day (increased risk) and prior adaptation of the workplace according to advice given by the occupational physician (decreased risk). By contrast, the prevalence of CTS was low (less than 2%), and no job-related risk factors for CTS could be identified among VDT users

Introduction. Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a pattern of coercive behaviours that include repeated physical, sexual and emotional abuse. Musculoskeletal injuries are common symptoms of IPV. We aimed to determine the proportion of female patients, attending orthopaedic fracture clinics, that have experienced IPV defined as physical, sexual, or emotional abuse within the past 12 months. Methods. We completed a cross-sectional study of 282 injured women attending two Level I trauma centres in Canada. Female patients presenting to the orthopaedic fracture clinics completed two validated self-reported written questionnaires; the Woman Abuse Screening Tool (WAST) and the Partner Violence Screen (PVS) to determine the prevalence of IPV. The questionnaire also contained questions that pertain to participant demographics, fracture characteristics, and experiences with health care utilisation. Results. The overall prevalence of IPV (emotional, physical, and sexual abuse) within the last 12 months was 32% (95% Confidence Interval 26.4% to 37.2%) amongst the 282 respondents. One in 12 injured women disclosed a history of physical abuse (24/282, 8.5%) in the past year. Seven women (2.5%) indicated the cause for their current visit was directly related to physical abuse, and 5 of these cases included fractures. We did not identify any significant trends in ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or injury patterns as markers of domestic abuse. Of 24 women with physical injuries, only 4 had been asked about IPV by a physician and none of the physicians were their treating orthopaedic surgeons. Conclusion. Our study confirms a high prevalence of IPV among female patients with injuries attending orthopaedic surgical clinics in Ontario. Similar to previous research, our study found that women of all ages, ethnicities, social economic status, and injury patterns may experience IPV. Surgeons should consider screening all injured women for domestic violence in their clinics

We present to you a match-controlled study assessing co-existing arthroscopic findings during hip arthroscopy in patients with an intraoperative diagnosis of a central acetabular osteophyte (CAO). We feel that this manuscript is both pertinent and timely.

Recent literature has described the entity of central acetabular impingement, in which an osteophyte of the cotyloid fossa impinges against the superomedial femoral head and fovea. The technique for central acetabular decompression has also been described to treat this entity. The primary purpose of this study was to report the prevalence of femoral head articular damage in a matched cohort of patients with and without central acetabular osteophyte (CAO) that was identified during hip arthroscopy. A secondary purpose was to identify the rates of co-existing intraarticular pathology in both patient groups.

Intraoperative data was collected prospectively on all patients undergoing hip arthroscopy at our institution between February 2008 to March 2015,. The inclusion criteria for this study were the presence of a CAO identified during hip arthroscopy for a labral tear and/or femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). Exclusion criteria were revision surgeries, Tönnis grade 1 and higher, and previous hip conditions such as Legg-Calves-Perthes disease, avascular necrosis, and prior surgical intervention. The matched cohort control group was selected based on gender, age within 5 years, body mass index (BMI), and workers' compensation claim, on a 1:3 ratio to patients who underwent hip arthroscopy for a labral tear and/or FAI and did not have a CAO.

The CAO group consisted of 126 patients, which were matched to 378 patients in the control group. The grades of femoral and acetabular chondral damage were significantly different between the two groups (p<0.01).

This study showed that patients with CAO had a significantly higher prevalence of femoral and acetabular chondral damage, size of articular defects on both surfaces and the prevalence of LT tears compared to matched controls.

Purpose: Intimate partner violence (IPV), also known as domestic violence, is a pattern of coercive behaviors that include repeated physical, sexual and emotional abuse. Musculoskeletal injuries are common manifestations of IPV. We aimed to determine the proportion of women presenting to orthopaedic fracture clinics for treatment of orthopaedic injuries that have experienced IPV defined as physical, sexual, or emotional abuse within the past 12 months. Method: We completed a cross-sectional study of 282 injured women attending two Level I trauma centres in Canada. Female patients presenting to the orthopaedic fracture clinics completed two validated self-reported written questionnaires (Woman Abuse Screening Tool (WAST) and the Partner Violence Screen (PVS)) to determine the prevalence of IPV. The questionnaire also contained questions that pertain to the participant’s demographic, fracture characteristics, and experiences with health care utilization. Results: The overall prevalence of IPV (emotional, physical, and sexual abuse) within the last 12 months was 32% (95% Confidence Interval 26.4% to 37.2%) (89 of 282 women). One in 12 injured women disclosed a history of physical abuse (24/282, 8.5%) in the past year. Seven women (2.5%) indicated the cause for their current visit was directly related to physical abuse, of which five were fractures. We did not identify any significant trends in ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or injury patterns as markers of domestic abuse. Of 24 women with physical injuries, only four had been asked about IPV by a physician, none of whom were their treating orthopaedic surgeons. Conclusion: Our study confirms a high prevalence of IPV among female patients with injuries attending orthopaedic surgical clinics in Ontario. Similar to previous research our study found that women of all ages, ethnicities, social economic status, and injury patterns may experience IPV. Surgeons should consider screening all injured women for domestic violence in their clinics

Background and purpose

Adherence to clinical guidelines produces greater improvement in disability in patients with low back pain (LBP), but a wide variation in physiotherapists' adherence has been documented repeatedly. The aim of the study was to investigate the adherence to National Clinical Guidelines for LBP among Danish physiotherapists with regard to three key guideline domains: 1) activity, 2) work, and 3) psychosocial risk factors. Additionally to investigate whether adherence differed between physiotherapists working in private clinics and physiotherapists working at public healthcare centres.