Aims. In-hospital length of stay (LOS) and discharge dispositions following arthroplasty could act as surrogate measures for improvement in patient pathways, and have major cost saving implications for healthcare providers. With the ever-growing adoption of robotic technology in arthroplasty, it is imperative to evaluate its impact on LOS. The objectives of this study were to compare LOS and discharge dispositions following robotic arm-assisted total knee arthroplasty (RO TKA) and unicompartmental arthroplasty (RO UKA) versus conventional technique (CO TKA and UKA). Methods. This large-scale, single-institution study included patients of any age undergoing primary TKA (n = 1,375) or UKA (n = 337) for any cause between May 2019 and January 2023. Data extracted included patient demographics, LOS, need for post anaesthesia care unit (PACU) admission, anaesthesia type, readmission within 30 days, and discharge dispositions. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were also employed to identify factors and patient characteristics related to delayed discharge. Results. The median LOS in the RO TKA group was 76 hours (interquartile range (IQR) 54 to 104) versus 82.5 (IQR 58 to 127) in the CO TKA group (p < 0.001) and 54 hours (IQR 34 to 77) in the RO UKA versus 58 (IQR 35 to 81) in the CO UKA (p = 0.031). Discharge dispositions were comparable between the two groups. A higher percentage of patients undergoing CO TKA required PACU admission (8% vs 5.2%; p = 0.040). Conclusion. Our study showed that robotic arm assistance was associated with a shorter LOS in patients undergoing primary UKA and TKA, and no difference in the discharge destinations. Our results suggest that robotic arm assistance could be advantageous in partly addressing the upsurge of knee arthroplasty procedures and the concomitant healthcare burden; however, this needs to be corroborated by long-term cost-effectiveness analyses and data from randomized controlled studies. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(10):791–800

Aims. This study used an artificial neural network (ANN) model to determine the most important pre- and perioperative variables to predict same-day discharge in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Methods. Data for this study were collected from the National Surgery Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database from the year 2018. Patients who received a primary, elective, unilateral TKA with a diagnosis of primary osteoarthritis were included. Demographic, preoperative, and intraoperative variables were analyzed. The ANN model was compared to a logistic regression model, which is a conventional machine-learning algorithm. Variables collected from 28,742 patients were analyzed based on their contribution to hospital length of stay. Results. The predictability of the ANN model, area under the curve (AUC) = 0.801, was similar to the logistic regression model (AUC = 0.796) and identified certain variables as important factors to predict same-day discharge. The ten most important factors favouring same-day discharge in the ANN model include preoperative sodium, preoperative international normalized ratio, BMI, age, anaesthesia type, operating time, dyspnoea status, functional status, race, anaemia status, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Six of these variables were also found to be significant on logistic regression analysis. Conclusion. Both ANN modelling and logistic regression analysis revealed clinically important factors in predicting patients who can undergo safely undergo same-day discharge from an outpatient TKA. The ANN model provides a beneficial approach to help determine which perioperative factors can predict same-day discharge as of 2018 perioperative recovery protocols. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(8):1358–1366

Aims. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a swift adoption of telehealth in orthopaedic surgery. This study aimed to analyze the satisfaction of patients and surgeons with the rapid expansion of telehealth at this time within the division of adult reconstructive surgery at a major urban academic tertiary hospital. Methods. A total of 334 patients underging arthroplasty of the hip or knee who completed a telemedicine visit between 30 March and 30 April 2020 were sent a 14-question survey, scored on a five-point Likert scale. Eight adult reconstructive surgeons who used telemedicine during this time were sent a separate 14-question survey at the end of the study period. Factors influencing patient satisfaction were determined using univariate and multivariate ordinal logistic regression modelling. Results. A total of 68 patients (20.4%) and 100% of the surgeons completed the surveys. Patients were “Satisfied” with their telemedicine visits (4.10/5.00 (SD 0.98)) and 19 (27.9%) would prefer telemedicine to in-person visits in the absence of COVID-19. Multivariate ordinal logistic regression modelling revealed that patients were more likely to be satisfied if their surgeon effectively responded to their questions or concerns (odds ratio (OR) 3.977; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.260 to 13.190; p = 0.019) and if their visit had a high audiovisual quality (OR 2.46; 95% CI 1.052 to 6.219; p = 0.042). Surgeons were “Satisfied” with their telemedicine experience (3.63/5.00 (SD 0.92)) and were “Fairly Confident” (4.00/5.00 (SD 0.53)) in their diagnostic accuracy despite finding the physical examinations to be only “Slightly Effective” (1.88/5.00 (SD 0.99)). Most adult reconstructive surgeons, seven of eight (87.5%) would continue to use telemedicine in the future. Conclusion. Telemedicine emerged as a valuable tool during the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients undergoing arthroplasty and their surgeons were satisfied with telemedicine and see a role for its use after the pandemic. The audiovisual quality and the responsiveness of physicians to the concerns of patients determine their satisfaction. Future investigations should focus on improving the physical examination of patients through telemedicine and strategies for its widespread implementation. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(6 Supple A):196–204

Introduction. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a swift adoption of telehealth in orthopedic surgery. The purpose of this study was to analyze patient and surgeon satisfaction with a rapid expansion of telehealth use during COVID-19 pandemic within the division of adult reconstructive surgery at a major urban academic hospital. Methods. 334 hip and knee arthroplasty patients who completed a telemedicine visit from March 30th, 2020 through April 30th, 2020 were sent a 14-question survey. Eight adult reconstructive surgeons who used telemedicine were sent a separate 14-question survey at the end of the study period. Factors influencing patient satisfaction were determined using univariate and multivariate ordinal logistic regression modeling. Results. 20.4% of patients (68/334) and 100% of surgeons (8/8) completed the surveys. Patients were on average “Satisfied” with their telemedicine visits (4.10/5.00 ± 0.98), 54.4% considered themselves high-risk for COVID-19 complications, and 27.9% reported that they preferred future visits to be conducted using telemedicine for reasons unrelated to COVID-19. Multivariate ordinal logistic regression modeling revealed that patients reported higher satisfaction if their surgeon effectively responded to their questions/concerns (OR 3.977; 95% CI 1.260 to 13.190, p=0.019) and if their visit had higher audiovisual quality (OR 2.46; 95% CI 1.052 to 6.219, p=0.042). Surgeons were “Satisfied” with their telemedicine experience (3.63/5.00 ± 0.92), felt that physical exams conducted via telemedicine were “Slightly Effective” (1.88/5.00 ± 0.99), and believed that 43.5% of visits required an in-person component. Most adult reconstructive surgeons would continue to use telemedicine in the future (87.5%). Conclusion. Telehealth emerged as a valuable tool during the COVID-19 pandemic. Arthroplasty patients and surgeons were generally satisfied with telehealth and see a role for telehealth after the pandemic. Future investigations should explore how to improve telehealth physical examinations and identify which types of visits and patient concerns are reliably addressed using telehealth

Aims. The aim of this study was to screen the entire genome for genetic markers associated with risk for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury. Methods. Genome-wide association (GWA) analyses were performed using data from the Kaiser Permanente Research Board (KPRB) and the UK Biobank. ACL and PCL injury cases were identified based on electronic health records from KPRB and the UK Biobank. GWA analyses from both cohorts were tested for ACL and PCL injury using a logistic regression model adjusting for sex, height, weight, age at enrolment, and race/ethnicity using allele counts for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). The data from the two GWA studies were combined in a meta-analysis. Candidate genes previously reported to show an association with ACL injury in athletes were also tested for association from the meta-analysis data from the KPRB and the UK Biobank GWA studies. Results. There was a total of 2,214 cases of ACL and PCL injury and 519,869 controls within the two cohorts, with three loci demonstrating a genome-wide significant association in the meta-analysis: INHBA, AEBP2, and LOC101927869. Of the eight candidate genes previously studied in the literature, six were present in the current dataset, and only COL3A1 (rs1800255) showed a significant association (p = 0.006). Conclusion. Genetic markers in three novel loci in this study and one previously-studied candidate gene were identified as potential risk factors for ACL and PCL injury and deserve further validation and investigation of molecular mechanisms. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(6):414–421

Abstract. Introduction. Previous research has demonstrated no clinically significant benefit of arthroscopic meniscectomy in patients with a meniscal tear, however, patients included in these studies would not meet current treatment recommendations. Prior to further randomised controlled trials (RCTs) research is needed to understand a younger population in more detail. Aim. To describe the baseline characteristics of patients with a meniscal tear and explore any association between baseline characteristics and outcome. Methodology. A prospective, national multicentre cohort study was performed recruiting patients aged 18 to 55 presenting to secondary care. MRI analysis of arthritis was performed using Whole Organ Magnetic Resonance Imaging Score (WORMS) and bone shape analysis. Outcomes included the Western Ontario Meniscal Evaluation Tool (WOMET) and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS4) at 12 months. Results. 150 participants were recruited across eight sites with a mean age of 43.47 (SD 9.63). MRI analysis using WORMS score and bone shape analysis revealed no or early osteoarthritis. At 12 months, 67 (44.67%) of participants were managed non-operatively and 68 (45.33%) were operatively. Participants in the operative group were significantly younger with a lower BMI (p<0.05). A stepwise logistic regression model including 17 characteristics revealed that only baseline score and surgery significantly affected 12-month WOMET and KOOS4. Conclusion. This study in contrast to previous trials demonstrated a benefit of surgery for patients with a meniscal tear. The METRO study demonstrates that it is feasible to recruit younger patients and a future RCT is required using the study population included in this cohort

Abstract. Aims. Whilst short and mid-term activity levels after a Total Knee Replacement (TKR) have been reported in the literature; there is an over simplification of the reporting and longer-term activity levels are unknown. The aim of this study was to map the long-term trajectories of patients’ physical activity levels postoperatively to identify meaningful subgroups and explore associations with preoperative variables. Methods. This was a secondary analysis of a single centre longitudinal cohortstudy using group-based trajectory modelling (GBTM) of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) physical activity score over ten years. Multinomial logistic regression models (both adjusted and unadjusted) were used to test associations between preoperative variables and trajectory group membership. Results. 266 of the 904 eligible patients were recruited (29%). Data from 260 patients was available for analysis. Four trajectory groups were identified with good fit of the model (average posterior probability 0.79 to 0.93). Of the four groups, the two more active groups had a peak activity level between two-three years postoperatively; the less active groups had a peak activity level at between three months and one year. Preoperative UCLA, participation in sports in the three years prior to surgery and male gender showed trends towards association with a higher activity group. Conclusions. Four trajectory groups were identified giving a more detailed understanding of temporal trends in physical activity levels post TKR. There was weak evidence to show an association between patient expectation, preoperative UCLA score and participation in sports in the prior three years and group membership

Abstract. Introduction. The objective of this study was to determine rates of serious adverse events in patients undergoing revision knee arthroplasty with consideration of the indication for revision and compare these with primary knee arthroplasty. Methodology. Primary and revision arthroplasty procedures were identified in the national Hospital Episode Statistics and were linked by patient and side. A logistic regression model was used to investigate factors associated with 90-day mortality (primary outcome) and secondary serious adverse outcomes. Urgent indications for revision arthroplasty were defined as infection or fracture; other indications (e.g. loosening, instability, wear) were included in the elective cohort. Results. 939,021 primary knee arthroplasty and 40,584 revision cases were included. Revision surgery for elective indications was associated with a 90-day rate of mortality of 0.44% (95% CI 0.37-0.52) which was comparable to primary knee arthroplasty (0.46%; 95% CI 0.44-0.47). Revision arthroplasty for infection, however, was associated with a much higher mortality of 2.04% (95% CI 1.75-2.35; odds ratio [OR] 3.54; 95% CI 2.81-4.46), as was revision for periprosthetic fracture at 5.25% (95% CI 3.94-6.82; OR 6.23; 95% CI 4.39-8.85). Higher rates of PE, MI, and stroke were observed in the infection and fracture cohort. Conclusion. Patients presenting with infection of a knee arthroplasty or a periprosthetic fracture are at very high risk of adverse events. It is important that acute hospital services and tertiary referral centres caring for these patients are appropriately supported to ensure appropriate urgency with an anticipation for increased care requirements

Abstract. Introduction. Anterolateral procedures can reduce the risk of re-rupture after ACL reconstruction in high risk patients however, this effectiveness has never been evaluated in elite athletes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of lateral extra-articular tenodesis in reducing revision rates in ACL reconstructions in elite athletes. Methodology. A consecutive cohort of elite athletes between 2005 and 2018 undergoing ACLR reconstruction with or without modified Lemaire lateral extra-articular tenodesis were analysed. A minimum of 2 years of follow-up was required. The association between the use of LET and ACL graft failure was evaluated with univariate and multivariate logistic regression models. Results. 455 elite athletes (83% male; 22.5±4.7 years) underwent primary ACL reconstruction with (n=117) or without (n=338) a LET procedure. Overall, 36 athletes (7.9%) experienced ACL graft failure including 32 (9.5%) reconstructions without a LET and 4 (3.4%) with a LET. Utilization of LET during primary ACL reconstruction reduced the risk of graft failure by 2.8 times with 16.5 athletes needing to be treated with LET to prevent a single ACL graft failure. Multivariate models showed that LET significantly reduced the risk of graft rupture (RR=0.325; p=.029) as compared to ACL reconstruction alone after controlling for age at ACL reconstruction and gender. Including graft type in the model did not significantly change the risk profile. Conclusion. The addition of LET in elite athletes undergoing primary ACL reconstruction reduced the risk of undergoing revision by 2.8 times

Aims. Porous metaphyseal cones can be used for fixation in revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA) and complex TKAs. This metaphyseal fixation has led to some surgeons using shorter cemented stems instead of diaphyseal engaging cementless stems with a potential benefit of ease of obtaining proper alignment without being beholden to the diaphysis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate short term clinical and radiographic outcomes of a series of TKA cases performed using 3D-printed metaphyseal cones. Methods. A retrospective review of 86 rTKAs and nine complex primary TKAs, with an average age of 63.2 years (SD 8.2) and BMI of 34.0 kg/m. 2. (SD 8.7), in which metaphyseal cones were used for both femoral and tibial fixation were compared for their knee alignment based on the type of stem used. Overall, 22 knees had cementless stems on both sides, 52 had cemented stems on both sides, and 15 had mixed stems. Postoperative long-standing radiographs were evaluated for coronal and sagittal plane alignment. Adjusted logistic regression models were run to assess malalignment hip-knee-ankle (HKA) alignment beyond ± 3° and sagittal alignment of the tibial and femoral components ± 3° by stem type. Results. No patients had a revision of a cone due to aseptic loosening; however, two had revision surgery due to infection. In all, 26 (27%) patients had HKA malalignment; nine (9.5%) patients had sagittal plane malalignment, five (5.6%) of the tibia, and four (10.8%) of the femur. After adjusting for age, sex, and BMI, there was a significantly increased risk for malalignment when a cone was used and both the femur and tibia had cementless compared to cemented stems (odds ratio 3.19, 95% confidence interval 1.01 to 10.05). Conclusion. Porous 3D-printed cones provide excellent metaphyseal fixation. However, these central cones make the use of offset couplers difficult and may generate malalignment with cementless stems. We found 3.19-times higher odds of malalignment in our TKAs performed with metaphyseal cones and both femoral and tibial cementless stems. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(6 Supple A):150–157

Aims. Rates of readmission and reoperation following primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are under scrutiny due to new payment models, which penalize these negative outcomes. Some risk factors are more modifiable than others, and some conditions considered modifiable such as obesity may not be as modifiable in the setting of advanced arthritis as many propose. We sought to determine whether controlling for hypoalbuminaemia would mitigate the effect that prior authors had identified in patients with obesity. Methods. We reviewed the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database for the period of January 2008 to December 2016 to evaluate the rates of reoperation and readmission within 30 days following primary TKA. Multivariate logistic regression modelling controlled for preoperative albumin, age, sex, and comorbidity status. Results. Readmission rates only differed significantly between patients with Normal Weight and Obesity Class II, with a decreased rate of readmission in this group (odds ratio (OR) 0.82; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.71 to 0.96; p = 0.010). The only group demonstrating association with increased risk of reoperation within 30 days was the Obesity Class III group (OR 1.38; 95% CI 1.05 to 1.82; p = 0.022). Hypoalbuminaemia (preoperative albumin < 35 g/L) was significantly associated with readmission (OR 1.62; 95% CI 1.41 to 1.86; p < 0.001) and reoperation (OR 1.52; 95% CI 1.18 to 1.96; p = 0.001) within 30 days. Conclusion. In this study, hypoalbuminaemia appears to be a more significant risk factor for readmission and reoperation than even the highest obesity categories. Future studies may assess whether preoperative albumin restoration or weight loss may improve outcomes for patients with hypoalbuminaemia. The implications of this study may allow surgeons to discuss risk of surgery with obese patients planning to undergo primary TKA procedures if other comorbidities are adequately controlled. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(6 Supple A):31–35

Aims. To compare rates of serious adverse events in patients undergoing revision knee arthroplasty with consideration of the indication for revision (urgent versus elective indications), and compare these with primary arthroplasty and re-revision arthroplasty. Methods. Patients undergoing primary knee arthroplasty were identified in the national Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) between 1 April 1997 to 31 March 2017. Subsequent revision and re-revision arthroplasty procedures in the same patients and same knee were identified. The primary outcome was 90-day mortality and a logistic regression model was used to investigate factors associated with 90-day mortality and secondary adverse outcomes, including infection (undergoing surgery), pulmonary embolism, myocardial infarction, and stroke. Urgent indications for revision arthroplasty were defined as infection or fracture, and all other indications (e.g. loosening, instability, wear) were included in the elective indications cohort. Results. A total of 939,021 primary knee arthroplasty procedures were included (939,021 patients), of which 40,854 underwent subsequent revision arthroplasty, and 9,100 underwent re-revision arthroplasty. Revision surgery for elective indications was associated with a 90-day rate of mortality of 0.44% (135/30,826; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.37 to 0.52) which was comparable to primary knee arthroplasty (0.46%; 4,292/939,021; 95% CI 0.44 to 0.47). Revision arthroplasty for infection was associated with a much higher mortality of 2.04% (184/9037; 95% CI 1.75 to 2.35; odds ratio (OR) 3.54; 95% CI 2.81 to 4.46), as was revision for periprosthetic fracture at 5.25% (52/991; 95% CI 3.94 to 6.82; OR 6.23; 95% CI 4.39 to 8.85). Higher rates of pulmonary embolism, myocardial infarction, and stroke were also observed in the infection and fracture cohort. Conclusion. Patients undergoing revision arthroplasty for urgent indications (infection or fracture) are at higher risk of mortality and serious adverse events in comparison to primary knee arthroplasty and revision arthroplasty for elective indications. These findings will be important for patient consent and shared decision-making and should inform service design for this patient cohort. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(10):1578–1585

Introduction. Porous metaphyseal cones are increasingly used for fixation in revision total knee arthroplasty (RTKA). Both cemented shorter length stems and longer diaphyseal engaging stems are currently utilized with metaphyseal cones with no clear evidence of superiority. The purpose of this study was to evaluate our experience with 3D printed titanium metaphyseal cones with both short cemented and longer cementless stems from a clinical and radiographic perspective. Methods. In total 136 3D printed titanium metaphyseal cones were implanted. The mean patient age was 63 and 48% were female. The mean BMI was 33 and the mean ASA class was 2.5. There were 42 femoral cones in which 28 cemented and 14 cementless stems were utilized. There were 94 tibial cones in which 67 cemented and 27 cementless stems were utilized. The choice for stem fixation was surgeon dependent and in general cones were utilized for AORI type 2 and 3 bone defects on the femur and tibia. The most common fixation scenario was short cemented stems on both the femur and tibia followed by cemented stem fixation on the tibia and cementless fixation on the femur. Clinical data such as revision, complication, and PRO was collected at last follow-up (minimum follow-up 1 year). Radiographic analysis included cone bony ingrowth and coronal and sagittal alignment on long-standing radiographs. Descriptive statistics were used to compare demographics between patients who had malalignment (HKA beyond +/− 3 degrees and flexion/extension beyond +/− 3 degrees). Adjusted logistic regression models were run to assess malalignment risk by stem type. Results. Patient reported outcomes demonstrated modest improvements with Pre-op KOOS improving from 44 pre-op to 59 post -op and PF-CAT improving from 33 to 37 post-op. PROMIS pain scores decreased significantly from 54 to 44 post-op. 36% of patients had malalignment in either the coronal or sagittal plane. Patients with malalignment were more likely to be female (66.7% vs 40.4%, p-value=0.02). After adjusting for age, sex and BMI, there was a significantly increased risk for coronal plane malalignment when both the femur and tibia had cementless compared to cemented stems (odds ratio=5.54, 95%CI=1.15, 26.80). There was no significantly increased risk when comparing patients with mixed stems to patients with cemented stems. Sagittal plane malalignment was more common with short cemented stems although both coronal plane and sagittal plane malalignment with either stem type was not associated with inferior clinical outcome. Overall cone survivorship was excellent with only two cones removed for infection. Conclusion. Metaphyseal titanium cones provide reliable fixation in revision TKA. However, PROs in this complex patient population show only modest improvement consistent with other variables such as co-morbidities and poor baseline physical function. Small cone inner diameter may adversely influence cementless stem position leading to coronal plane malalignment. Short cemented stems are subject to greater sagittal plane malalignment with no apparent influence on clinical outcome

Seligman’s theory of causal attribution predicts that patients with a pessimistic explanatory style will have less favourable health outcomes. We identified 702 patients who had undergone 894 primary total knee replacements between 1993 and 2005, who responded to follow-up surveys at two (n = 783 knee replacements) and/or five years (n = 443 knee replacements) and had also completed the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory long before the joint replacement (median = 16.6 and 14.5 years for two- and five-year cohorts, respectively). Scores from the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory Optimism-Pessimism scale were used to categorise patients as pessimistic (t-score > 60) or non-pessimistic (t-score ≤ 60). Multivariate logistic regression models assessing the effect of pessimistic explanatory style on pain or improvement in knee function were adjusted for gender, age, distance from the place of treatment and depression score. Pessimists reported (a) significantly more moderate or severe pain at two years with odds ratio 2.21 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.12 to 4.35; p = 0.02), but not at five years when the odds ratio was 1.21 (95% CI 0.51 to 2.83; p = 0.67); and (b) less improvement in knee function at two years when the odds ratio was 0.53 (95% CI 0.30 to 0.96; p = 0.04), but not at five years when the odds ratio was 1.26 (95% CI 0.57 to 2.77; p = 0.57). No significant associations with moderate or severe limitation of activity were seen at two or five years. We conclude that a pessimistic explanatory style is associated with worse pain and functional outcomes two years after total knee replacement

Introduction. There is insufficient data on the trends of anticoagulation after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in the USA, and the efficacy and safety of rivaroxaban, beyond randomized clinical trials and small cohort studies. Patients and Methods. Using the Truven Health MarketScan database, we retrospectively evaluated new anticoagulation prescriptions after elective TKA from 2010 to 2015. The frequency of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and adverse events, within 90 days, were then evaluated in 24,856 new users of warfarin and 21,398 new users of rivaroxaban in commercially insured patients (COM), and 15,483 new users of warfarin and 8,997 new users of rivaroxaban in Medicare supplement patients (MED). Data was analyzed by odds ratios using logistic regression models with stabilized inverse probability treatment weighting. Results. Warfarin use decreased from approximately 50% to 17% in COM patients and 60% to 25% in MED patients. Rivaroxaban use increased from 0 to 35% in COM patients and from 0 to 39% in MED patients. Older patients, females, a history of DVT, renal impairment, use of antiplatelet agents or surgery performed as an outpatient had lower odds of getting rivaroxaban. Patients in Western region and having surgery in 2015 had higher odds of getting rivaroxaban. COM patients with capitated insurance plans and a history of PE had lower odds of rivaroxaban initiation. MED patients with atrial fibrillation, cardiovascular disease or hyperlipidemia had lower odds of rivaroxaban initiation. Warfarin users had significantly higher odds ratio of DVT (OR 2.06 in COM patients and OR 2.21 in MED patients) and PE (OR 2.03 in COM patients and OR 2.16 in MED patients) than rivaroxaban users. There were no statistically significant differences in the bleeding risk between the two agents, but warfarin users had a significantly higher odds ratio of periprosthetic infection in both COM (1.57) and MED (1.79) patients. Conclusions. There has been an increase in prophylaxis with rivaroxaban, and a decrease in both warfarin and LMWH use after elective TKA over four years. Rivaroxaban had lower odds ratio of both DVT and PE than warfarin, and bleeding risks were similar. For figures, tables, or references, please contact authors directly

Introduction. Patient satisfaction is an important outcome measure after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and is the ultimate goal of surgery. However, patient satisfaction reflects a complex construct of the patient's personal expectations and preferences in addition to subjective evaluation of outcome after TKA. Multiple studies have found a patient dissatisfaction rate of approximately 20% at 1 year after TKA. The purpose of this study is to determine whether there is an association between a single-item validated TKA satisfaction score and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) at 3 time points (1, 2, and 5 years after TKA) and to determine if dissatisfaction rate after TKA varies over time. Methods. A multi-center, prospective cohort of 12,952 patients (8,078 patients were assessed at 1-year, 702 patients at 2-year, and 4,172 patients at 5-year) undergoing primary TKA were enrolled by 230 surgeons in 28 states between 2012–2015. Surgeons practices varied in size, reimbursement models, and geographic setting ensuring that the cohort included diverse patient populations and delivery models. Surgeons agreed to invite all TKA patients to participate and sporadic audits of surgical logs validated that all patients were invited and > 90% of patients were included. Demographic and clinical data [age, gender, body mass index (BMI), and modified Charlson co-morbidity index (CCI)] were collected. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were collected pre-op and post-op at 1, 2, and 5 years using an internet-based platform including the KOOS (total score, and pain, ADL, QoL sub scores), KOOS Jr, SF-36 (PCS and MCS). We used the single-item satisfaction scale which was tested and validated by the Swedish Knee Arthroplasty Registry. The patients' responses were made on 5-point Likert scale (very satisfied, somewhat satisfied, neutral, somewhat dissatisfied, very dissatisfied). Patients were classified into 2 categories: satisfied group for patients who answered satisfied or very satisfied and dissatisfied group for patients answered neutral, somewhat dissatisfied, or very dissatisfied. Univariate analysis of the difference between the satisfied and dissatisfied patients' groups was performed using Mann-Whitney U test for continuous variables and chi-square test for categorical variables. Logistic regression model was performed to study the correlation between the satisfaction and PROMs with 95% confidence interval. Results. Mean age was 66.6 years, 62.7% were female, and mean BMI was 31.6. The CCI was 0 in 55.1%, 1 in 22%, 2–5 in 12.6% and ≥ 6 in 10.3%. Cumulative revision rate was 1.29% at 2 years. The 30-day adverse events incidence was 2.5% while the 90-day adverse events incidence was 4.7%. The dissatisfaction rate was 18.1% at 1-year, 11.5% at 2-year, and 8.5% at 5-year (P<0.001, Chi-square). Dissatisfaction significantly affects younger patients (<55 years) (P=0.04, Chi-square) and patients with high Charlson comorbidity index >1 (P=0.001, Chi-square). Low post-operative KOOS Pain, KOOS ADL, KOOS total score, KOOS JR, SF-36 PCS, and SP-36 MCS scores were significantly associated with dissatisfaction (P<0.001). At 5 years follow-up, in patients with KOOS scores greater than 70, 1.3% of patients were dissatisfied; with KOOS 50–70, 16.3% were dissatisfied and when KOOS < 50, 62.2% are dissatisfied. Logistic regression showed significant correlation of satisfaction with postoperative KOOS pain, KOOS ADL, KOOS QoL, KOOS total score, KOOS JR, and SF-36 PCS (P< 0.001) at 1-year, 2-year, and at 5-year. The MCS was correlated with patient satisfaction only at 1-year (P< 0.001). Conclusion. The patient dissatisfaction rate 5 years after TKA is 8.1% in FORCE-TJR patients which is significantly lower than 18.1% at 1-year. Less improvement of PROM scores after TKA are significantly associated with patient dissatisfaction. Postoperative PROM scores are associated with patient satisfaction at 1-year, 2-years, and 5-years. When the 5-year post- op KOOS total score is >70, 98.7% of patients are satisfied and only 1.3% are dissatisfied. Patient satisfaction is an important outcome measure after TKA that can be determined by asking a single question. However, in order to understand why a patient is dissatisfied, KOOS scores (KOOS pain, KOOS ADL, KOOS QoL) that assess specific postoperative outcomes can assist in determining the reason for patient dissatisfaction after TKA

Introduction. Rates of readmission and reoperation following primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are under scrutiny due to new payment models, which penalize these negative outcomes. Many prior studies have demonstrated the risk of perioperative complications among patients with obesity. However, an elevated complication rate among patients with poor nutrition, as measured by hypoalbuminemia, has also been reported. We sought to determine whether controlling for hypoalbuminemia would mitigate the effect that prior authors had identified in patients with obesity. In addition, we hoped to identify an albumin threshold above which risk of readmission and reoperation would be minimized. Materials and Methods. We reviewed the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database for the period of 2008–2016 to evaluate the rates of perioperative complications among primary TKA patients by obesity category and albumin level. Patients were divided into groups according to World Health Organization obesity category and continuous as well as dichotomous albumin level. The primary outcomes were readmission and reoperation within 30 days of surgery. Patients without BMI or albumin data were excluded, as were patients undergoing surgery for the treatment of fracture or bone tumor. Univariate logistic regression compared predictive value of body mass index and albumin on incidence of these outcomes, using the normal weight and albumin > 3.5 g/dL groups as controls. Multivariate logistic regression modeling controlled for age, gender, and comorbidity status. Receiver operator curves (ROC) were generated to determine if an albumin threshold could be determined, above which risk for these complications would be minimized. Results. Outcome data was available 108,601 patients. Overall, 3,508 patients (3.46%) were readmitted and 1,219 patients (1.19%) underwent reoperation within 30 days. Hypoalbuminemia was present in 4,327 patients (4.11%), lowest in the Overweight group (3.16%) and highest in the Obese Type III (6.72%) and Underweight (12.62%) groups (p <0.001). Readmission and reoperation rates were highest among patients categorized as Obesity Class III (4.15 and 1.73%, respectively) compared with Normal Weight (3.59 and 1.14%, respectively, p <0.001). Readmission and reoperation rates were higher among patients with hypoalbuminemia (6.10 and 1.96%, respectively) compared with normal albumin (3.34 and 1.16%, respectively, p <0.001). After controlling for covariates of interest using multivariate regression including continuous albumin, odds ratio of readmission among the highest obesity category no longer differed from the Normal Weight control group. Odds ratio of reoperation among the highest obesity category declined from 1.52 to 1.38 after controlling for albumin and other covariates (p = 0.022). A subanalysis was performed excluding all patients with albumin < 3.5 g/dL, but results did not differ significantly from the multivariate model. ROC modeling was unable to identify a threshold for continuous BMI or albumin that would adequately mitigate risk for readmission or reoperation. Discussion. Albumin and obesity remain significant independent risk factors for reoperation following primary TKA procedures. However, after controlling for hypoalbuminemia and other important covariates, readmission rates did not significantly differ between patients with Normal Weight and any other obesity category. Controlling for albumin alone does not mitigate all risk imposed by obesity on perioperative outcomes. Future studies may assess whether preoperative albumin repletion or weight loss may improve outcomes for patients with hypoalbuminemia and obesity. For figures, tables, or references, please contact authors directly

Aims

The purpose of this study is to determine an individual’s age-specific prevalence of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) after cruciate ligament surgery, and to identify clinical and genetic risk factors associated with undergoing TKA.

Aims

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether achieving medial joint opening, as measured by the change in the joint line convergence angle (∆JLCA), is a better predictor of clinical outcomes after high tibial osteotomy (HTO) compared with the mechanical axis deviation, and to find individualized targets for the redistribution of load that reflect bony alignment, joint laxity, and surgical technique.

Aims

The tibial component of total knee arthroplasty can either be an all-polyethylene (AP) implant or a metal-backed (MB) implant. This study aims to compare the five-year functional outcomes of AP tibial components to MB components in patients aged over 70 years. Secondary aims are to compare quality of life, implant survivorship, and cost-effectiveness.