Purpose. We explored the role of patients beliefs and attitudes towards their likelihood of recovery from severe physical trauma. Method. We developed and validated an instrument designed to capture the impact of patients beliefs and attitudes towards functional recovery from injury; the Somatic Pre-Occupation and Coping (SPOC) questionnaire. At six weeks post-surgical fixation, we administered the SPOC questionnaire to 359 consecutive patients with operatively managed tibial shaft fractures. We constructed multi-variable regression models to explore the association between SPOC scores and functional outcome at one year, as measured by return to work and Short Form-36 (SF-36) physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) scores. Results. In our adjusted regression models that included pre-injury SF-36 scores, SPOC scores at six weeks post-surgery accounted for 18% of the variation in SF-36 PCS scores and 18% of SF-36 MCS scores at one year. Our adjusted analysis found that for each 14-point increment in SPOC score (14 points being half the standard deviation of the aggregate score) at six weeks the odds of returning to work at 12 months decreased by 40% (odds ratio = 0.60; 95% CI = 0.50 to 0.73). In all models, six week SPOC scores were a far more powerful predictor of functional recovery than age, gender, fracture type, smoking status, or the presence of multi-trauma. Conclusion. The SPOC questionnaire is a valid measurement of illness beliefs and attitudes in tibial fracture patients and is highly predictive of their long-term functional recovery

Introduction. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is undertaken to relieve pain and to restore mobility. The orthopaedic community remains divided on the influence of surgical approach in achieving functional recovery most quickly and effectively. We report a study comparing THA performed through a posterior (Posterior) against anterior approach (Heuter). Methods. Fifty patients were prospectively enrolled and randomized for Posterior or Heuter procedures. Informed patient consent and local ethics approval was obtained. All patients received an uncemented, ceramic-on-ceramic prosthesis performed by a single surgeon. Functional outcome was assessed by time to achieve milestones of walking, stair climbing, hip movement and balance. Kinematic data on level-ground walking and the effect of fatigue was assessed using a portable gait analysis system at 6-, 12-, and 24-weeks post-operatively. Results. The Heuter group showed significantly quicker balance control, on average 10 days earlier, than the posterior group (p< 0.05). The achievement of the other milestones of independent and distance walking, stair climbing and hip movement also showed quicker recovery overall in the Heuter group; this was, however, not statistically significant (p>0.05). Kinematic data suggested that there were no statistical differences in stance phase stability (p=0.73) or pulling acceleration (p=0.77) between the 2 groups at each time point. Fatigue, effected via timed, gentle mobilisation on a treadmill, also did not significantly result in a difference. Discussion. The Heuter approach is rarely used in the UK, although its recent resurgence can be attributed to its perceived theoretical benefit of sparing muscle; this contrasts with the detachment of muscle required for the Posterior approach. Our experience show that the Heuter approach does not compromise the quality of gait, and it offers advantages in the rate of functional recovery, especially that of balance control

Objective. As the aging society progresses rapidly in Japan, the number of elderly patients underwent TKA is increasing. These elderly patients do not expect to do sports, but regain independency in the activity of daily living. Therefore, we measured basic ambulatory function quantitatively using 3m timed up and go (TUG) test. We clinically experienced patient with medially unstable knee after TKA was more likely to result in the unsatisfactory outcome. We hypothesized that post-operative knee stability influenced ambulatory function recovery after TKA. In this study, we evaluated ambulatory function and knee stability quantitatively, and analyzed the effect of knee stability on the ambulatory function recovery after TKA. Materials & Methods. Seventy nine patients with varus type osteoarthritic knees underwent TKA were subjected to this study. The mean age of surgery was 72.4 years old. Preoperative standing coronal deformity was 9.6 degrees in varus. TUG test results in less duration with faster ambulatory function. TUG (seconds) was measured at 3 time periods; pre-operatively, at hospital discharge and 1year after surgery. To standardize TUG recovery time during 1 year after TKA, we defined TUG recovery rate as the percentage of recovery time to the pre-operative TUG as shown in the following equation. TUG recovery rate (%) = (TUG pre-op –TUG 1y po) / TUG pre-op ×100. We also evaluated the knee stability at hospital discharge and 1year after surgery. The knee stability at extension and flexion were assessed by varus and valgus stress radiography using Telos (10kg) and stress epicondylar view with 1.5kg weight at the ankle respectively. Image analyzing software was used to measure joint separation distance (mm) at medial as medial joint opening (MJO) and at lateral as lateral joint opening (LJO) at both knee extension and flexion. (Fig.1). The sequential change of TUG was analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA (p<0.05). The influence of joint opening distances (MJO and LJO at extension and flexion) on TUG 1y po and TUG recovery rate were analyzed using simple linear regression analysis (p<0.05). Results. The mean TUGs were 13.4, 13.7 and 10.8 seconds pre-operatively, at hospital discharge and 1 year after TKA respectively. Significant decrease was found at 1 year after surgery. TUG pre-op did not show significant correlation to any joint openings. TUG 1y po was positively correlated with both flexion and extension MJO at hospital discharge. (Fig.2) TUG recovery rate negatively correlated to flexion-MJO at hospital discharge. (Fig.3). Discussions. The most interesting findings in the present study were that both flexion and extension MJO at hospital discharge were positively correlated with TUG 1y po and negatively correlated with TUG recovery rate. This indicated that early post-operative medial stability played an important role in the recovery of ambulatory function. The early post-operative medial instability would cause pain and deteriorate functional recovery after surgery. There is some disagreement regarding the importance of pursuing the perfect ligament balance, which would be more likely to result in medial instability. Consequently, surgeons should prioritize medial stability for better ambulatory functional recovery after TKA

Despite the variety of implants or techniques that exist to treat displaced distal radial fractures, the majority fail to provide sufficient stability to permit early functional recovery. However, locking plates have the advantage over other implants in that locking screws add considerably to the overall stability. The aim of this study was to assess the functional outcome of patients with displaced distal radial fractures treated with a volar distal radial locking plate (Synthes). During a two year period, details of 98 patients admitted to our unit with inherently unstable dorsally displaced distal radial fractures treated with volar locking plates were collected prospectively. For the purpose of this analysis, only those patients (55) with unilateral fracture, able to attend the study clinic at 6 months post-injury were considered. Patients were immobilised in wool and crepe for a 2 week period. The group consisted of 15 males and 40 females with an average age of 54 (28 to 83). At 6 months, patients' perceived functional recovery averaged 80%. Objective assessment was considered in relation to the uninjured side: grip strength 73%; pinch strength 83%; palmarflexion 77%, dorsiflexion 80%; radial deviation 74%; ulnar deviation 74%; pronation 93%, and supination 92%. Seven patients complained of symptoms relating to prominent metalwork. Good/excellent early subjective and objective functional recovery was made following open reduction and internal fixation using volar locking plates of dorsally displaced distal radial fractures. We suggest that objective assessment of grip strength and dorsiflexion can be used as a measure of patient perception of function

Introduction. Rapid increase of aged population has been one of major issue affecting national health care plan in Japan. In 2006, Japanese Orthopaedic Association proposed the clinical entity of musculoskeletal ambulation disorder symptom complex (MADS) to define the elderly population with high risk of fall and ambulatory disability caused by musculoskeletal disorders. Osteoarthritis of the knee is one of major cause of MADS. The number of patients with MADS underwent total knee arthroplasty (TKA) had been increased in Japan, and also expected to increase worldwide in the near future. The effectiveness of TKA for the patient with MADS has not been well evaluated. In the present study, we analyzed the early post-operative functional recovery after TKA using 2 simple performance tests to diagnose MADS. Material & Method. Fifty patients with varus type osteoarthritic knees implanted with posterior-stabilized (PS) TKAs were subjected to this study. There were 44 female and 6 male patients. The mean age of the patients was 71.6 years (range, 59 to 84 years). Patients were subjected to 2 functional performance tests which were essential tests for MADS diagnosis. Firstly, 3 meter timed up and go test (TUG) was used to evaluate ambulation. Secondary one leg standing time with open eyes was measured to assess balancing ability. 2 tests were performed pre-operatively, 2 weeks after surgery and at discharge (23.8 days po). MADS was defined to be diagnosed if TUG and one leg standing time was not less than 11 seconds and/or less than 15 seconds respectively. Each parameter was compared among at above mentioned three time points -using a repeated measured analysis of variance (p<0.05). Results. The number of the patients with MADS were 37, 44 and 38 in 50 patient pre-operatively, 2 weeks after surgery and at hospital discharge respectively. Mean TUG was 12.9, 16.9 and 14.0 sec. respectively [fig 1]. TUG significantly increased during 2 weeks after TKA, followed by significant decrease at discharge. There were no significant improvements in ambulation during hospital stay. Mean one leg standing time with operated and non-operated side leg at three time points were 11.0, 12.4, 17.9 sec, and 18.4, 17.9, 24.2 sec. each respectively [fig 2]. There were no significant improvements during initial 2 weeks after surgery. Significant increase of one leg standing time was found after 2 weeks, and balancing ability was found to be improved during hospital stay. Discussion & Conclusion. Although both parameters assessing ambulatory and balancing function were found to be improved post-operative 2 weeks, still as much as 76% of patients were suffered from MADS at hospital discharge in our patient population. These results indicate that the patient after TKA has still exposed to high risk of fall and ambulatory dysfunction at discharge. We should reconsider the appropriate rehabilitation protocol especially for the elderly patient with MADS to meet with patient expectation and enhance early post-operative care

Acute pain is one of the most common symptoms shared among patients who have suffered from an orthopedic trauma such as an isolated upper limb fracture (IULF). Development of interventions with limited side effects aiming to prevent the installation of chronic pain is critical as persistent pain is associated with an increased risk of opioid dependence, medical complications, staggering financial burdens and diminished quality of life. Theta burst stimulation (TBS), a non-invasive magnetic brain stimulation technique with minimal side effects, has shown promising results in patients experiencing various types of chronic pain conditions as it precisely targets brain regions involved in pain processing. Surprisingly, its impact on acute pain has never been investigated. This study aims to assess longitudinal effects of a 10-day continuous TBS (cTBS) protocol applied in the acute phase of an IULF on key functional outcomes.

Patients with an IULF aged between 18 to 60 years old were recruited within 7 days post-accident at a Level I Trauma Center. Exclusion criteria included a history of brain injury, neurological disorders, musculoskeletal complications, and open fractures. In order to assess longitudinal changes, questionnaires measuring intensity and characteristics of pain (Numerical Rating Scale, NRS; McGill Pain Questionnaire, MPQ) as well as functional disability (DASH) were completed by all patients at three time points, namely prior to the start of the TBS program as well as 72 hours and 3 months post-intervention. Patients were randomly attributed to the active TBS protocol (active group) or to the placebo protocol (sham group). The stimulation site for each participant corresponded to the contralateral motor cortex of the injured arm.

Fifty patients were recruited (female: 24; age: 40.38 years old), of which 25 were in the active group and 25 were in the sham group. Both groups were equivalent based on age, sex, type of injury, and surgical procedures (p>0.05). The intervention protocol was introduced on average 6.18 days post-accident. In comparison to the sham group, the active group showed a significant decrease in pain intensity (NRS) at 72h (F=6.02; p=0.02) and 3-month (F=6.37; p=0.02) post-intervention. No group difference was found early-on (72h post) in regard to pain characteristics (MPQ; F=3.90; p=0.06) and functional disabilities (DASH; F=0.48; p= 0.49). At three-month post-intervention, the active group showed statistically significant improvement on the MPQ (F=5.02; p=0.04) and the DASH (F=5.88; p=0.02) compared to the placebo group. No complications related to the treatment were reported.

Results from this study show that patients who underwent active cTBS reported less pain and better functional states shortly after the end of the TBS protocol compared to sham patients and treatment effects were maintained at three months post-intervention. Given that acute pain intensity is an excellent predictor of chronic pain development, this safe technique available in numerous centers in Canada may help prevent chronic pain development when administered during the acute post-injury phase. Future studies should continue to investigate mechanisms involved to optimize this technique among the orthopedic trauma population and to reduce opioid consumption.

Introduction

Traditional Total Knee Arthpolasty (TKA) replaces all 3 compartments of the knee for patients diagnosed with OA. There might be functional benefit to replacing only damaged compartments, and retaining the normal ligamentous structures. There is a long history of performing multi-compartment arthroplasty with discrete components. Laskin reported in 1976 that good pain relief and acceptable clinical results were achieved at two years in patients with bi-unicondylar knee replacement [Laskin 1976]. Other authors also have reported on bi-unicompartmental knee arthroplasty achieving successful clinical outcomes [Stockley 1990; Confalonieri 2005]. Banks et al. reported that kinematics of bi-unicompartmental arthroplasties during gait demonstrated some of the basic features of normal knee kinematics [Banks 2005]. These reports suggest that a modular approach to resurfacing the knee can be successful and achieve satisfactory clinical and functional results.

INTRODUCTION

The burden of Musculoskeletal (M-S) diseases and prosthetic revision operations is huge and increasing rapidly with the aging population. For patients that require a major surgical intervention, procedures are unsafe, uncertain in outcome and have a high complication rate. The goal of this project is to create an ICT-based patient-specific surgical navigation system that helps the surgeon safely reaching the optimal functional result for the patient and is a user friendly training facility for the surgeons. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the advancements in personalized musculoskeletal modeling for patients who require severe reconstructive surgery of the lower extremity.

The purpose of our study was to prospectively examine early functional differences in gait between the direct anterior and direct lateral surgical approaches for total hip arthroplasty over the first three months postoperatively.

Forty participants were prospectively enrolled to either the direct anterior (20 patients) or direct lateral group (20 patients) based on their surgeon's expertise. Outcome measures were collected preoperatively at their preadmission appointment and postoperatively at discharge from the hospital, two weeks, six weeks and three months. We used the GAITRite® system to measure gait velocity, stride length, single-limb support and single-limb support symmetry. We also had participants complete the Timed Up and Go test and a series of questionnaires at each visit: WOMAC, SF-12, Harris Hip Score, and pain VAS.

Our primary outcome, gait velocity, was significantly greater in the direct anterior group at discharge and six weeks postoperatively with adjusted mean differences of 0.12m/s and 0.17m/s respectively. Single-limb support symmetry was also significantly better in the direct anterior group at two weeks, six weeks and three months with adjusted mean differences of 0.10, 0.09 and 0.04 respectively. The direct anterior group also had significantly shorter times to complete the Timed Up and Go test at two and six weeks with adjusted mean differences of −9.02s and −2.64s. There were no differences between the groups at any time point for the WOMAC, SF-12, Harris Hip Score, or pain VAS.

Preliminary results of our expertise-based study have found the direct anterior approach to total hip arthroplasty offers better early functional outcomes than the direct lateral approach.

INTRODUCTION. The benefits of combining enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) interventions with an outpatient THA/TKA program are uncertain. The primary objective was to compare adverse event rate and secondly to compare pain management, functional recovery, PROMs and patients' satisfaction. METHODS. We conducted an ambidirectional single subject cohort study on 48 consecutive patients who experienced both a standard-inpatient and an ERAS-outpatient THA/TKA (contralaterally). We compared complications according to Clavien-Dindo scale and Comprehensive Complications Index (CCI), and unplanned episodes of care. Postoperative pain assessed with a numeric rating scale, opioid consumption in morphine milligram equivalents, functional recovery, patient-reported outcome measures (WOMAC, KOOS, HOOS, Forgotten Joint Score and Patient Joint Perception) and patients' satisfaction were also evaluated. RESULTS. Following the ERAS-outpatient surgery, complication rates were reduced by more than 50% (2.1 vs 4.4, p<0.001), CCI was significantly lower (12.3 vs 19.1, p<0.001), and similar unplanned episodes of care were observed (p>0.999). In the first 8 postoperative hours, perceived pain was similar (p>0.805) while opioid consumption was significantly reduced with ERAS-outpatient care (9.3 vs 26.5 MME, p<0.001). Patients walked, climbed stairs, showered, performed activities of daily living, practised sports, went back to work sooner after ERAS-outpatient surgery (p<0.001), but PROMs were similar between groups at the last follow-up (p> 0.188). Patients were more satisfied with hospital stay, pain management, functional recovery, wound management, and overall experience of the ERAS-outpatient pathway and recommended it significantly more (p <0.002). DISCUSSION. Most studies comparing outpatient to inpatient programs conclude that outpatient surgeries did not increase complication or readmission rates, and, overall, were not inferior. We found that compared to std-inpatient practice, ERAS-outpatient program reduced complications by half while not resulting in more unplanned episodes of care. Moreover, it resulted in similar pain relief with fewer opioids, faster early functional recovery and higher satisfaction. Patients were significantly more inclined to recommend the ERAS-outpatient pathway after having personally experienced both outpatient and inpatient protocols. These finding are likely multifactorial and linked to the specific ERAS interventions. CONCLUSION. Results of this study highlight the importance of following ERAS principles when implementing an outpatient THA/TKA program

Aims. Traumatic central cord syndrome (CCS) typically follows a hyperextension injury and results in a motor impairment affecting the upper limbs more than the lower limbs, with occasional sensory impairment and urinary retention seen. Current evidence on mortality and long-term outcomes is limited. The primary aim of this study is to assess the five-year mortality of CCS, and to determine any difference in mortality between management groups or age. Patients and Methods. Patients ≥18 years with traumatic CCS between January 2012 and December 2017 in Wales were identified. Patient demographics and injury, management and outcome data was collected. Statistical analysis was performed to assess mortality and between group differences. Results. 65 patients were identified (66.2% male, mean age 63.9 years). At five-years follow-up, 32.3% (n=21) of CCS patients were dead. 6 (9.2%) patients had died within 31 days of their injury. 69.2% (n=45) of patients were managed conservatively and there was no significant difference (p=0.062) in age between conservatively and surgically managed patients. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed no significant difference in mortality between patients managed conservatively compared to those managed surgically (log rank test, p=0.819). However, there was a significant difference (p=0.001) in mortality between the different age groups (<50 years vs 50–70 years vs >70 years). At five-years follow up, 55.6% of the patient group aged >70 years at time of injury were dead. Respiratory failure was the most common cause of death (n=9, 42.9%). Conclusion. Almost one third of patients with traumatic CCS in Wales were dead at five years following their injury. Management type did not significantly affect mortality, however age at time of injury did. Further work assessing the long-term functional outcomes of surviving patients is needed, to allow more reliable prognostic information and functional recovery predictions to be given

Introduction. Robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has demonstrated significant benefits, including improved accuracy of component positioning compared to conventional jig-based TKA. However, previous studies have often failed to associate these findings with clinically significant improvements in patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Inertial measurement units (IMUs) provide a more nuanced assessment of a patient's functional recovery after TKA. This study aims to compare outcomes of patients undergoing robotic-assisted and conventional TKA in the early postoperative period using conventional PROMS and wearable sensors. Method. 100 patients with symptomatic end-stage knee osteoarthritis undergoing primary TKA were included in this study (44 robotic-assisted TKA and 56 conventional TKA). Functional outcomes were assessed using ankle-worn IMUs and PROMs. IMU- based outcomes included impact load, impact asymmetry, maximum knee flexion angle, and bone stimulus. PROMs, including Oxford Knee Score (OKS), EuroQol-Five Dimension (EQ-5D-5L), EuroQol Visual Analogue Scale (EQ-VAS), and Forgotten Joint Score (FJS-12) were evaluated at preoperative baseline, weeks 2 to 6 postoperatively, and at 3-month postoperative follow-up. Results. By postoperative week 6, when compared to conventional TKA, robotic-assisted TKA was associated with significant improvements in maximum knee flexion angle (118o ± 6.6 vs. 113o ± 5.4; p=0.04), symmetrical loading of limbs (82.3% vs.22.4%; p<0.01), cumulative impact load (146.6% vs 37%; p<0.01), and bone stimulus (25.1% vs 13.6%; p<0.01). Whilst there were no significant differences in PROMs (OKS, EQ-5D-5L, EQ-VAS, and FJS-12) at any time point between the two groups, when comparing OKS subscales, significantly more robotic-assisted TKA patients achieved an ‘excellent’ outcome at 6 weeks compared to conventional (47% vs 41%, p= 0.013). Conclusions. IMU-based metrics detected an earlier return to function among patients that underwent robotic-assisted TKA compared to conventional TKA that PROMs were unable to detect within the first six weeks of surgery

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

Wide resection, with or without adjuvant therapy, is the mainstay of treatment for soft tissue sarcoma of the extremities. The surgical treatment of soft tissue sarcoma can portend a prolonged course of recovery from a functional perspective. However, data to inform the expected course of recovery following sarcoma surgery is lacking. The purpose of this study was to identify time to maximal functional improvement following sarcoma resection and to identify factors that delay the expected course of recovery. A retrospective chart review was performed of all patients undergoing surgical treatment of a soft tissue sarcoma of the extremities between January 1st, 1985 and November 15, 2020 with a minimum of 1 follow up. The primary outcome measure was time to maximal functional improvement, defined as failure to demonstrate improvement on two consecutive follow up appointments, as defined by the functional outcome measures of Toronto Extremity Salvage Score (TESS) and Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) Score or by achieving 90% of maximum outcome score. We identified 1188 patients who underwent surgical resection of a soft tissue sarcoma of the extremities. Patients typically achieved a return to their baseline level of function by 1 year and achieved “maximal” functional recovery by 2 year's time postoperatively. Patient and tumor factors that were associated with worse functional outcome scores and a delayed return to maximal functional improvement included older age (p=0.007), female sex (p-0.004), larger tumor size (p < 0 .001), deep tumor location (p < 0 .001), pelvic location (p < 0 .001), higher tumor grade (p < 0 .001). Treatment factors that were associated with worse functional outcome scores and a delayed return to maximal functional improvement included use of radiation therapy (p < 0 .001), perioperative complications (p < 0 .001), positive margin status (p < 0 .001) and return of disease, locally or systemically (p < 0 .001). Most patients will recover their baseline function by 1 year and achieve “maximal” recovery by 2 years’ time following surgical resection for soft tissue sarcoma of the extremities. Several patient, tumor and treatment factors should be used to counsel patients as to a delayed course of recovery

Background. Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a major cause of ambulatory disabilities. Although total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been reported as the most effective treatment for severe knee OA, quantitative evaluation of ambulatory function have not been well investigated. We hypothesized that better functional recovery would result in better patient satisfaction. The purpose of this study was to quantitatively evaluate ambulatory functional recovery and assess the influence on patient satisfaction after TKA. Material and Methods. 90 patients (80 females and 10 males) were involved in this study. The mean age at TKA was 75.2 ± 5.8 years. Patients were subjected to 3 meters timed up and go test (TUG) to evaluate ambulatory function. TUG was performed at 6 time periods; before surgery, 2 weeks, 1, 3, 6 months, and 1 year after surgery. We also asked the patients to fill out the questionnaire of patient satisfaction category in the New Knee Society Score at 1 year after TKA. The sequential changes in TUG were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA (p<0.05). The influences of each parameter (age, TUGs) on the patient satisfaction score were analyzed with simple regression analysis (p<0.05). Results. The mean TUGs were 12.2, 16.7, 13.3, 11.1, 10.7, 10.4 seconds at before surgery, 2 weeks, 1, 3, 6 months, and 1 year after surgery respectively. TUG time significantly increased at 2 weeks after TKA and decreased afterward until 3 months. We found TUG significantly decreased at 3 months comparing to preoperative measurement. No significant changes in TUG were found from 3 months to 1 year after TKA. The mean patient satisfaction score was 29.2 ± 6.3 (12–40) points. There was a significant negative correlation between age and satisfaction. Patient satisfaction was negatively correlated to preoperative TUG and TUG at 1 year. Discussion. In this study, we evaluated sequential changes of ambulatory function in detail using TUG test during 1 year after TKA. Ambulatory function significantly deteriorated at 2 weeks, followed by gradual improvement and reached to significantly better level at 3 months after TKA comparing to preoperative level. We also found that the patient satisfaction was affected equally by both preoperative and 1 year postoperative TUG time. Although our patients' age was relatively elder than in the major literature, significant improvement in ambulatory function was observed as short as 3 months. This is shorter than previous reports. We provided a rehabilitation program in hospital for 3 weeks after TKA. This would be beneficial for early ambulatory functional recovery even with elder patients. The ambulatory function generally deteriorates as patients get old. Therefore TKA should be considered before patients get too old. Conclusion. Ambulatory function significantly improved at 3 months after TKA, and no more improvement was found afterward. The younger age and better preoperative ambulatory function would be beneficial for the patient satisfaction after TKA in elderly population

Introduction. With an aging population, the prevalence of fragility ankle fractures is rising. The surgical management of these injuries is challenging and associated with high rates of complications. The incidence of fragility ankle fractures is currently estimated to be around 150 per 100,000 people annually and is anticipated to rise to around 269 per 100,000 by 2030. The aim of surgery is to restore mobility, preserve function and to prevent complications related to non-weight-bearing and the application of hind foot nail (HFN) seems to provide these advantages. This systematic review aims to investigate the role of HFN in the treatment of fragility ankle fractures. We aim to review the available evidence published on the functional recovery observed in patients following treatment with HFN and the observed complications in the literature. Materials and Methods. A review of the current literature was conducted to identify recent systematic reviews on the use of HFN in the treatment of fragility ankle fractures. Our electronic search included the following databases; Web of Sciences, Cochrane Database of Systematic Review, MEDLINE, CINHAL, and Academic Search Premier. We also conducted a web search using Google Scholar for sake of completeness. Studies published from the inception of data until September 2019 that assess the effectiveness of HFN in patients with osteoporotic ankle fractures were included. Articles meeting the inclusion criteria were read in full and assessed against the eligibility criteria. Results. Six case series and one randomized controlled trial included in our review. The total number of patients included was 194, of them, 145 were females and 49 males. The age range of all cases was 37–98 years (mean 76.39 years). Patients' demographic data, follow-up duration, Postoperative weight-bearing status, postoperative complications, mortality and Olerud and Molander score (OMAS) scores have been obtained in details. Conclusions. The use of HFN have found that it has favorable outcomes regarding early rehabilitation, restoration of function and length of hospital stay. Prospective trials comparing the outcome of patients with fragility ankle fractures treated with HFN vs conventional treatments are warranted, particularly with long periods of follow ups

The anterior approach for total hip arthroplasty (THA) has been associated with a faster earlier functional recovery and has gained increasing utilization for primary THA exposure. However, some studies have suggested a higher risk of femoral complications, as well as difficulty with femoral exposure. Techniques of soft tissue releases have been described to offer better femoral exposure, and to help mitigate complications like femoral fracture or breach of the canal with broaching. However, appropriate titrated soft release remains important to decrease potential risk of dislocation. Here we present a suggested technique and hierarchy of soft tissue releases to adequately expose the femur. In addition, we discuss adjunctive table and patient position maneuvers for femoral exposure, as well as more extensile and revision techniques if necessary. For any figures or tables, please contact authors directly

Peripheral nerve injuries (PNI) occur in 10% of combat casualties. In the immediate field-hospital setting, an insensate limb can affect the surgeon's assessment of limb viability and in the long-term PNI remain a source of considerable morbidity. Therefore the aims of this study are to document the recovery of combat PNI, as well as report on the effect of current medical management in improving functional outcome. In this study, we present the largest series of combat related PNI in Coalition troops since World War II. From May 2007 – May 2010, 100 consecutive patients (261 nerve injuries) were prospectively reviewed in a specialist PNI clinic. The functional recovery of each PNI was determined using the MRC grading classification (good, fair and poor). In addition, the incidence of neuropathic pain, the results of nerve grafting procedures, the return of plantar sensation, and the patients' current military occupational grading was recorded. At mean follow up 26.7 months, 175(65%) of nerve injuries had a good recovery, 57(21%) had a fair recovery and 39(14%) had a poor functional recovery. Neuropathic pain was noted in 33 patients, with Causalgia present in 5 cases. In 27(83%) patients, pain was resolved by medication, neurolysis or nerve grafting. In 35 cases, nerve repair was attempted at median 6 days from injury. Of these 62%(22) gained a good or fair recovery with 37%(13) having a poor functional result. Forty-two patients (47 limbs) initially presented with an insensate foot. At final follow up (mean 25.4 months), 89%(42 limbs) had a return of protective plantar sensation. Overall, 9 patients were able to return to full military duty (P2), with 45 deemed unfit for military service (P0 or P8). This study demonstrates that the majority of combat PNI will show some functional recovery. Adherence to the principles of war surgery to ensure that the wound is clear of infection and associated vascular and skeletal injuries are promptly treated will provide the optimal environment for nerve recovery. Although neuropathic pain affects a significant proportion of casualties, pharmacological and surgical intervention can alleviate the majority of symptoms. Finally, the presence of an insensate limb at initial surgery, should not be used as a marker of limb viability. The key to recovery of the PNI patient lies in a multi-disciplinary approach. Essential to this is regular surgical review to assess progress and to initiate prompt surgical intervention when needed. This approach allows early determination of prognosis, which is of huge value to the rehabilitating patient psychologically, and to the whole rehabilitation team

The approach to total hip arthroplasty (THA) should allow adequate visualization and access so as to implant in optimal position whilst minimizing muscle injury, maintaining or restoring normal soft tissue anatomy and biomechanics and encouraging a rapid recovery with minimal complications. Every surgeon who performs primary hip arthroplasties will expound the particular virtues of his or her particular routine surgical approach. Usually this approach will be the one to which the surgeon was most widely exposed to during residency training. There is a strong drive from patients, industry, surgeon marketing campaigns, and the media to perform THA through smaller incisions with quicker recoveries. The perceived advantage of the anterior approach is the lack of disturbance of the soft tissues surrounding the hip joint, less pain, faster recovery with the potential for earlier return to work, shorter hospital stay and improved cosmetic results. The potential disadvantages include less visibility, longer operation time, nerve injuries, femoral fractures, malposition and a long learning curve for the surgeon (and his / her patients). The anterior approach was first performed in Paris, by Robert Judet in 1947. The advantages of the anterior approach for THA are several. First, the hip is an anterior joint, closer to the skin anterior than posterior. Second, the approach follows the anatomic interval between the zones of innervation of the superior and inferior gluteal nerves lateral and the femoral nerve medial. Third, the approach exposes the hip without detachment of muscle from the bone. The mini-incision variation of this exposure was developed by Joel Matta in 1996. He rethought his approach to THA and his goals were: lower risk of dislocation, enhanced recovery, and increased accuracy of hip prosthesis placement and leg length equality. This approach preserves posterior structures that are important for preventing dislocation while preserving important muscle attachments to the greater trochanter. The lack of disturbance of the gluteus minimus and gluteus medius insertions facilitates gait recovery and rehabilitation, while the posterior rotators and capsule provide active and passive stability and account for immediate stability of the hip and a low risk of dislocation. A disadvantage of the approach is the fact that a special operating table with traction is required. Potential complications include intraoperative femoral and ankle fractures. These can be avoided through careful manipulation of the limb. If a femoral fracture occurs, the incision can be extended distally by lengthening the skin incision downward along the anterolateral aspect of the thigh, and splitting the interval between the rectus femoris and the vastus lateralis. The choice of approach used to perform a primary THA remains controversial. The primary goals are pain relief, functional recovery and implant longevity performed with a safe and reproducible approach without complications. The anterior approach is promising in terms of hospital stay and functional recovery. Although recent studies suggest that component placement in minimally invasive surgery is safe and reliable, no long-term results have been published. Further follow-up and development is necessary to compare the results with the posterior approach as most of the positive data is based on comparisons with the anterolateral approach. The proposed benefits of the anterior approach are not supported by the current available literature. The issues regarding the difficult learning curve, rate of complications, operative time, requirement for trauma tables and image intensifier should be taken into account by surgeons starting with the anterior approach in THA

The approach to total hip arthroplasty (THA) should allow adequate visualization and access so as to implant in optimal position whilst minimizing muscle injury, maintaining or restoring normal soft tissue anatomy and biomechanics and encouraging a rapid recovery with minimal complications. The direct anterior approach (DAA) for THA was first performed in Paris, by Robert Judet in 1947. This procedure has since been performed consistently by a small group of surgeons and has recently gained great popularity. Access to the hip can be safely performed with one or two assistants. The advantages of the anterior approach for hip arthroplasty are several. First, the hip is an anterior joint, closer to the skin anterior than posterior. Second, the approach follows the anatomic interval between the zones of innervation of the superior and inferior gluteal nerves lateral and the femoral nerve medial. Third, the approach exposes the hip without detachment of muscle from the bone. Care must be taken to avoid cutting the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve which runs over the fascia of the sartorius. The mini-incision variation of this exposure was developed by Joel Matta in 1996. He rethought his approach to hip arthroplasty and by abandoning the posterior approach and adopting the anterior approach his goals were: lower risk of dislocation, enhanced recovery, and increased accuracy of hip prosthesis placement and leg length equality. This approach preserves posterior structures that are important for preventing dislocation while preserving important muscle attachments to the greater trochanter. The lack of disturbance of the gluteus minimus and gluteus medius insertions facilitates gait recovery and rehabilitation while the posterior rotators and capsule provides active and passive stability and accounts for immediate stability of the hip and a low risk of dislocation. Using the anterior approach, patients are allowed to mobilise their hip freely. The gluteus maximus and tensor fascia latae muscles insert on the iliotibial band which joins them and form a ´hip deltoid´. Lack of disturbance of these abductors and pelvic stabilisers is another benefit of the anterior approach and accelerates gait recovery. The lateral femoral cutaneous nerve is at risk when the fascia is incised between the tensor fascia latae and the sartorius muscle. Damaging it may lead to a diminished sensation on the lateral aspect of the thigh and formation of a neuroma. A disadvantage of the approach is the fact that a special operating table with traction is required. Potential complications include intra-operative femoral and ankle fractures. These can be avoided through careful manipulation of the limb. If a femoral fracture occurs, the incision can be extended distally along the anterolateral aspect of the thigh, and splitting the interval between the rectus femoris and the vastus lateralis. In obese or muscular patients, where visibility is in doubt, an increase of the incision length will give the surgeon the required view. The choice of approach used to perform a primary THA remains controversial. The primary goal of a hip replacement is pain relief, functional recovery and implant longevity performed with a safe and reproducible approach without complications. The anterior approach is promising in terms of hospital stay and functional recovery. Although recent studies suggest that component placement in minimally invasive surgery is safe and reliable, no long-term results have been published. Further follow-up and development is necessary to compare the results with the posterior approach. The proposed benefits of with the DAA are not supported by the current available literature. The issues regarding the difficult learning curve, rate of complications, operative time, requirement for trauma tables and image intensifier should be taken into account by surgeons starting with the DAA in THA