There is an increased risk of fracture following osteoplasty of the femoral neck for cam-type femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). Resection of up to 30% of the anterolateral head–neck junction has previously been considered to be safe, however, iatrogenic fractures have been reported with resections within these limits. We re-evaluated the amount of safe resection at the anterolateral femoral head–neck junction using a biomechanically consistent model.

In total, 28 composite bones were studied in four groups: control, 10% resection, 20% resection and 30% resection. An axial load was applied to the adducted and flexed femur. Peak load, deflection at time of fracture and energy to fracture were assessed using comparison groups.

There was a marked difference in the mean peak load to fracture between the control group and the 10% resection group (p < 0.001). The control group also tolerated significantly more deflection before failure (p < 0.04). The mean peak load (p = 0.172), deflection (p = 0.547), and energy to fracture (p = 0.306) did not differ significantly between the 10%, 20%, and 30% resection groups.

Any resection of the anterolateral quadrant of the femoral head–neck junction for FAI significantly reduces the load-bearing capacity of the proximal femur. After initial resection of cortical bone, there is no further relevant loss of stability regardless of the amount of trabecular bone resected.

Based on our findings we recommend any patients who undergo anterolateral femoral head–neck junction osteoplasty should be advised to modify their post-operative routine until cortical remodelling occurs to minimise the subsequent fracture risk.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:1214–19.

Aims. Management of intra-articular calcaneal fractures remains a debated topic in orthopaedics, with operative fixation often held in reserve due to concerns regarding perioperative morbidity and potential complications. The purpose of this study was to identify the characteristics of patients who developed surgical complications to inform the future stratification of patients best suited to operative treatment for intra-articular calcaneal fractures and those in whom surgery was highly likely to produce an equivocal functional outcome with potential post-operative complications. Methods. All patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation of calcaneal fractures utilizing the Sinus Tarsi approach between March 2014 and July 2018 were identified using theatre records. Patient imaging was used to assess pre- and post-operative fracture geometry with Computed Tomography (CT) used for pre-operative planning. Each patient's clinical presentation was established through retrospective analysis of medical records. Patients provided verbal consent to participation and patient reported outcome measures were recorded using the Maryland Foot Score. Results. Fifty-eight intra-articular calcaneal fractures (fifty-three patients including five bilateral, mean age = 46.91 years) were included. Forty-nine patients were injured as a result of a fall from a height (92.4%). Mean time from presentation to surgery was 3.23 days (range 0–21). Mean Maryland Foot score was found to be 77.6 (+/− 16.22) in forty-five patients. Five patients (9.4%) had wound complications; two superficial (3.7%) and three deep (5.6%). Conclusion. Intra-articular fractures of the calcaneus should be considered for surgical intervention in order to improve long-term functional outcomes. The Sinus Tarsi approach provides the potential to decrease the operative complication rate whilst maintaining adequate fixation, however, the decision to surgically manage these fractures should be carefully balanced against the risk of post-operative complications. This increased risk of complication associated with smoking may tip the balance against benefit from surgical management

Background. In recent years, ‘Get It Right First Time (GIRFT)’ have advocated cemented replacements in femoral part of Total hip arthroplasty (THA) especially in older patients. However, many studies were unable to show any difference in outcomes and although cemented prostheses may be associated with better short-term pain outcomes there is no clear advantage in the longer term. It is not clear when and why to do cemented instead of cementless. Aim. To assess differences in patient reported outcomes in uncemented THAs based on patient demographics in order to decide when cementless THA can be done safely. Method. Prospective data collection of consecutive 1079 uncemented THAs performed for 954 patients in single trust between 2010 and 2020. Oxford Hip Score (OHS) and complications were analysed against demographic variables (age, sex, BMI, ASA) and prosthesis features (femoral and acetabular size, offset and acetabular screws). Results. The mean pre-operative OHS was 14.6 which improved to 39.0 at 1 year follow up (P Value=0.000). There was no statistically significant difference between OHS outcome in patients aged over 70 versus younger groups. With a small number of revisable complications increase with age from 50s upwards. Male patients’ OHS score was on average 2.4 points higher than women. Men, however were 2.9 times more likely to experience fractures and high offset hips were 2.5 times more likely to experience dislocations. DAIR, intraoperative calcar fractures, post-operative fractures and dislocations were not associated with worse OHS. Patients with increased BMI had worse pre and post-operative hip functions yet, there was a significant multivariate association between increased BMI and increased improvement in OHS from pre-op to 1 year in women aged 55–80 and men under the age of 60. Femoral stem size increases with age but decreases in male patients over 80. There was no difference found in OHS between bilateral hip replacements and unilateral, nor was there any change found with laterality side of the replacement. Conclusions. This study suggests that ageing >70 is not associated with poorer outcomes despite small number of revisable complication rates that increase with age from 50 upwards. Men had marginally higher average OHS than women At 1 year. Higher BMI or ASA scores are associated with worse pre-operative hips and worse final outcome score. Despite this, the Delta OHS increases with increased BMI shown in the 55–80 year old female patients and male patients under 60. Key Words: THR, Uncemented, Oxford hip score, outcome

Aim and Methods. The goals of this study were to define the risk factors, nature, chronology, and treatment strategies adopted for periprosthetic femoral fractures in 32 644 primary total hip arthroplasties (THAs). . Results. There were 564 intra-operative fractures (1.7%); 529 during uncemented stem placement (3.0%) and 35 during cemented stem placement (0.23%). Intra-operative fractures were more common in females and patients over 65 years (p < 0.001). The majority occurred during placement of the femoral component (60%), and involved the calcar (69%). There were 557 post-operative fractures (20-year probability: 3.5%; 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.2 to 3.9); 335 fractures after placement of an uncemented stem (20-year probability: 7.7%; 95% CI 6.2 to 9.1) and 222 after placement of a cemented stem (20-year probability: 2.1%; 95% CI 1.8 to 2.5). The probability of a post-operative fracture within 30 days after an uncemented stem was ten times higher than a cemented stem. The most common post-operative fracture type was a Vancouver A. G . (32%; n = 135), with 67% occurring after a fall. In all, 36% (n = 152) were treated with revision arthroplasty. . Conclusion. In summary, intra-operative fractures occur 14 times more often with uncemented stems. Female patients over 65 years of age are at highest risk. Post-operative fractures are also most common with uncemented stems, but are independent of age or gender. Cumulative risk of post-operative periprosthetic femur fracture was 3.5% at 20 years. Take home message: Intra-operative fractures occur 14 times more often with uncemented stems, particularly with female patients over 65 years of age, while post-operative fracture risk is independent of age or gender, but still increased with uncemented stems. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:461–7

Aims. The goals of this study were to define the risk factors, characteristics, and chronology of fractures in 5417 revision total hip arthroplasties (THAs). . Patients and Methods. From our hospital’s prospectively collected database we identified all patients who had undergone a revision THA between 1969 and 2011 which involved the femoral stem. The patients’ medical records and radiographs were examined and the relevant data extracted. Post-operative periprosthetic fractures were classified using the Vancouver system. A total of 5417 revision THAs were identified. Results. There were 668 intra-operative fractures, giving an incidence of 12%. Fractures were three times more common with uncemented stems (19%) than with cemented stems (6%) (p <  0.001). The incidence of intra-operative femoral fracture varied by uncemented stem type: fully-coated (20%); proximally-coated (19%); modular fluted tapered (16%) (p < 0.05). Most fractures occurred during the insertion of the femoral component (35%). One-third involved the diaphysis and 26% were of the calcar: 69% were undisplaced. There were 281 post-operative fractures of the femur (20-year probability = 11%). There was no difference in risk for cemented and uncemented stems. Post-operative fractures were more common in men < 70 years (p = 0.02). Periprosthetic fractures occurred earlier after uncemented revision of the femoral component, but later after a cemented revision. The most common fracture type was a Vancouver B. 1. (31%). Of all post-operative fractures, 24% underwent open reduction and internal fixation and 15% revision arthroplasty. Conclusion. In revision THA, intra-operative fractures occurred three times more often with an uncemented stem. Many were undisplaced diaphyseal fractures treated with cerclage fixation. . While the risk of post-operative fracture is similar between uncemented and cemented components, they occur at notably different times depending on the type of stem fixation. . Take home message: In revision THA, intra-operative periprosthetic femoral fractures occur three times more often with uncemented stems. Many are non-displaced diaphyseal fractures treated with cerclage fixation. While postoperative fracture risks are equivalent between uncemented and cemented components, they occur at notably different time periods based on stem fixation type. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:468–74

Abstract. Introduction. In cementless UKR, early post-operative tibial fractures are 7x more common in very small tibias. A smaller keel has been shown to reduce this fracture risk, but its effect on fixation is unassessed. This mechanical study assesses the effect of keel interference and size on sagittal micromotion of the tibial component in physiological loading positions. Method. A high-resolution Digital Image Correlation setup was developed and validated to an accuracy of 50 micrometres. Variants of tibial components were 3D-printed: standard, no-interference, no-keel, and a new small keel. Components were implanted into bone-analogue foam which was machined to a CT-reconstructed small tibia, using surgical technique. Tibias were loaded to 200N in physiological loading positions: 8mm (step-up) and 15mm (lunge) posterior to midpoint, and micromotion was assessed. Results. In all tests, anterior lift-off was the largest micromotion observed. In ‘step-up’, a standard keel moved more than the no-interference and no-keel variants (340μm-vs-63μm-vs-30μm, p=0.002). In ‘lunge’ loading, the no-interference and no-keel variants moved more than the standard (826μm-vs-1003μm-vs-521μm, p=0.039). The small keel experienced less micromotion in ‘step-up’ (245μm-vs-340μm p=0.233, overall p=0.009) and ‘lunge’ (378μm-vs-521μm p=0.265, overall p=0.006) than the standard keel. Conclusion. The keel protects against large tibial micromotion during lunge movement. Counterintuitively, interference increases micromotion during step-up movement, likely due to implant pivoting around the bone-keel interface. Results suggest patients should be advised against lunge movements early post-operatively. The new smaller keel fixes similarly or better than the standard keel, making it viable for replacing the standard keel to potentially reduce fracture risk

The significance of periprosthetic fractures about a total hip arthroplasty (THA) is becoming increasingly important. Recent studies have demonstrated post-operative periprosthetic fracture rates are higher amongst cemented polished taper slip (PTS) stem designs compared to collared cementless (CC) designs. However, in the National Joint Registry, the rate of intra-operative periprosthetic femoral fractures (IOPFF) with cementless implant systems remains higher (0.87% vs 0.42%. p <0.001) potentially leading to more post-operative complications. This study identifies the incidence of IOPFF, the fracture subtype and compares functional outcomes and revision rates of CC femoral implants with an IOPFF to CC stems and PTS stems without a fracture. 5376 consecutive CC stem THA, carried out through a posterior approach were reviewed for IOPFF. Each fracture was subdivided into calcar fracture, greater trochanter (GT) fracture or shaft fracture. 1:1:1 matched analysis was carried out to compare Oxford scores at one year. Matching criteria included; sex (exact), age (± 1 year), American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) grade (exact), and date of surgery (± 6 months). Electronic records were used to review revision rates. Following review of the CC stems, 44 (0.8%) were identified as having an IOPFF. Of these 30 (0.6%) were calcar fractures, 11 (0.2%) GT fractures and 3 (0.06%) were shaft fractures. There were no shaft penetrations. Overall, no significant difference in Oxford scores at one year were observed when comparing the CC IOPFF, CC non-IOPFF and PTS groups. There were no CC stems revised for any reason with either a calcar fracture or trochanteric fracture within the period of 8 years follow-up. IOPFF do occur more frequently in cementless systems than cemented. The majority are calcar and GT fractures. These fractures, when identified and managed intra-operatively, do not have worse functional outcomes or revision rates compared to matched non-IOPFF cases

Aims. The aim of this study was to identify patient- and surgery-related risk factors for sustaining an early periprosthetic fracture following primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) performed using a double-tapered cementless femoral component (Bi-Metric femoral stem; Biomet Inc., Warsaw, Indiana). Patients and Methods. A total of 1598 consecutive hips, in 1441 patients receiving primary THA between January 2010 and June 2015, were retrospectively identified. Level of pre-operative osteoarthritis, femoral Dorr type and cortical index were recorded. Varus/valgus placement of the stem and canal fill ratio were recorded post-operatively. Periprosthetic fractures were identified and classified according to the Vancouver classification. Regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors for early periprosthetic fracture. Results. The mean follow-up was 713 days (1 to 2058). A total of 48 periprosthetic fractures (3.0%) were identified during the follow-up and median time until fracture was 16 days, (interquartile range 10 to 31.5). Patients with femoral Dorr type C had a 5.2 times increased risk of post-operative periprosthetic fracture compared with type B, while female patients had a near significant two times increased risk over time for post-operative fracture. Conclusion. Dorr type C is an independent risk factor for early periprosthetic fracture, following THA using a double tapered cementless stem such as the Bi-Metric. Surgeons should take bone morphology into consideration when planning for primary THA and consider using cemented femoral components in female patients with poor bone quality. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:451–7

Post-operative periprosthetic fracture of the femur (POPFF) is a growing problem associated with increased mortality. Most registry derived estimates of mortality only record patients who undergo revision and cohort studies are generally limited to a single center, which makes comparison for the purposes of service improvement difficult. The aim of this study is to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies reporting mortality following POPFF in the last decade. Study methodology was peer-reviewed (PROSPERO: CRD42020170819). Literature search was conducted using Medline and EMBASE. Primary exposure was the diagnosis of POPFF, and the primary outcome measure was all-cause mortality: whilst an inpatient, within 30-days, within 90-days and within one year of POPFF. Proportion of patients dying (95% CI [confidence interval]) was estimated using metaregression. Results were compared to mortality following neck of femur fracture (NOF) from international NOF registry data. 4841 patients from 35 cohort studies were included. Study quality was generally low with a majority limited to a single centre. Weighted mean follow-up was 2.3 years and the most common POPFF was UCS B. Pooled proportion dying as an inpatient was 2.4% (95% CI 1.6% to 3.4%). Pooled proportion dying within 30 days was 3.3% (95% CI 2.0% to 5.0%). Pooled proportion dying within 90 days was 4.8% (95% CI 3.6% to 6.1%). Pooled proportion dying within one year was 13.4% (95% CI 11.9% to 14.8%). Mortality following POPFF was similar to that of NOF up to 30 days, but better at one year. 3.3% of patients die following POPFF within 30 days of injury. Mortality is similar to that experienced by patients following NOF up to 30 days, but better at one year, which may represent the lower underlying risk of death in the POPFF cohort. These results may form the basis for evaluation of services treating POPFF in the future

Although the importance of lateral femoral wall integrity is increasingly being recognised in the treatment of intertrochanteric fracture, little attention has been put on the development of a secondary post-operative fracture of the lateral wall. Patients with post-operative fractures of the lateral wall were reported to have high rates of re-operation and complication. To date, no predictors of post-operative lateral wall fracture have been reported. In this study, we investigated the reliability of lateral wall thickness as a predictor of lateral wall fracture after dynamic hip screw (DHS) implantation. A total of 208 patients with AO/OTA 31-A1 and -A2 classified intertrochanteric fractures who received internal fixation with a DHS between January 2003 and May 2012 were reviewed. There were 103 men and 150 women with a mean age at operation of 78 years (33 to 94). The mean follow-up was 23 months (6 to 83). The right side was affected in 97 patients and the left side in 111. Clinical information including age, gender, side, fracture classification, tip–apex distance, follow-up time, lateral wall thickness and outcome were recorded and used in the statistical analysis. Fracture classification and lateral wall thickness significantly contributed to post-operative lateral wall fracture (both p < 0.001). The lateral wall thickness threshold value for risk of developing a secondary lateral wall fracture was found to be 20.5 mm. To our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the risk factors of post-operative lateral wall fracture in intertrochanteric fracture. We found that lateral wall thickness was a reliable predictor of post-operative lateral wall fracture and conclude that intertrochanteric fractures with a lateral wall thickness < 20.5 mm should not be treated with DHS alone. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1134–8

INTRODUCTION. The Woodpecker pneumatic broaching system facilitates femoral preparation to achieve optimal primary fixation of the stem in direct anterior hip replacement using a standard operating table. The high-frequency axial impulses of the device reduce excess bone tension, intraoperative femoral fractures and overall operating time. The Woodpecker device provides uniformity and enhanced control while broaching, optimizing cortical contact between the femur and implant and thereby maximizing prosthetic axial stability and longevity. This study aims to describe a single surgeon's experience using the Woodpecker pneumatic broaching system in 649 cases of direct anterior approach (DAA) total hip arthroplasties to determine the device's safety and efficacy. METHODOLOGY. All consecutive patients undergoing elective anterior bikini total hip arthroplasties (THA) performed by a single surgeon between July 2013 and June 2018 were included. Patients undergoing a THA with the use of the Woodpecker device through a different surgical approach, revision THA or arthroplasties for a fractured neck of femur were excluded (n=219). The pneumatic device was used for broaching the femoral canal in all cases. Pre-operative and post-operative Harris Hip Scores (HHS) and post-operative radiographs were analyzed to identify femoral fractures and femoral component positioning at 6 weeks, 6 months and 12 months post-operative. Any intra-operative or post-operative surgical complications and component survivorship until most recent follow up were recorded in the clinical notes. RESULTS. A total of 649 patients (L THA=317, R THA=328 and bilateral=2) with a mean age of 69 (range 46–91yrs) and mean BMI of 28.3 (range = 18.4–44.0) underwent a DAA THA using a Woodpecker device were included in the study. Of these patients, 521 (80%) underwent uncemented and 128 (20%) underwent cemented femoral components. The time taken to broach the femur using Woodpecker broaching this system averaged 2.8 minutes (1.4 to 7.5 minutes) in both cemented and uncemented cases. In 91% of cases the templated broach size was achieved with the remaining 9% within +/− 1 size of the planned template. Radiographic analysis revealed 67.3% of the stems placed in 0–1.82 degrees of varus and 32.7% placed in 0–1.4 degrees of valgus. Average HHS were 24.4 pre-operatively, with drastic improvements shown at 6 weeks (80.95), 6 months (91.91) and 12 months (94.18) after surgery. Intraoperative femoral fractures occurred in three patients (0.4%) during trial reduction, a further three patients had periprosthetic post-operative fractures (0.4%) from falls, two patients had stem subsidence (0.3%) and a further two patients had wound infections (0.3%). At the most recent follow up, the survivorship of the acetabular component was 99.7% and the femoral component was 99.1%, with mean follow up of 2.9 years (0.5 to 5 years). No intraoperative or post-operative complications could be directly attributed to the Woodpecker broaching system. CONCLUSION. The pneumatic Woodpecker device is a safe and effective alternative tool in minimally invasive direct anterior hip replacement surgery for femoral broaching performed on a standard operating table. The skill and experience of the surgeon must be taken into consideration when utilizing new surgical devices

Abstract. Objective. To estimate the effect of calcar collar contact on periprosthetic fracture mechanics using a collared fully coated cementless femoral stem. Methods. Three groups of six composite femurs were implanted with a fully coated collared cementless femoral stem. Neck resection was increased between groups (group 1 = normal, group 2 = 3mm additional, group 3 = 6mm additional), to simulate failure to obtain calcar collar contact. Periprosthetic fractures of the femur were simulated using a previously published technique. Fracture torque and rotational displacement were measured and torsional stiffness and rotational work prior to fracture were estimated. High speed video recording identified if collar to calcar contact (CCC) occurred. Results between trials where calcar contact did and did not occur where compared using Mann-Whitney U tests. Results. Where CCC occurred versus where no CCC occurred, fracture torque was greater (47.33 [41.03 to 50.45] Nm versus 38.26 [33.70 to 43.60] Nm, p= 0.05), Rotational displacement was less (0.29 [0.27 to 0.39] rad versus 0.37 [0.33 to 0.49] rad, p= 0.07), torsional stiffness was greater (151.38 [123.04 to 160.42] rad. Nm-1 versus 96.86 [84.65 to 112.98] rad.Nm-1, p <0.01) and rotational work was similar (5.88 [4.67, 6.90] J versus 5.31 [4.40, 6.56] J, p= 0.6). Conclusions. Resistance to fracture and construct stiffness increased when a collared cementless stem made contact with the femoral calcar prior to fracture. These results demonstrate that calcar-collar contact and not a calcar collar per se, is crucial to maximising the protective effect of a medial calcar collar on the risk of post-operative periprosthetic fractures of the femur. Declaration of Interest. (a) fully declare any financial or other potential conflict of interest

Although cemented fixation provides excellent results in primary total hip replacement (THR), particularly in patients older than 75 years, uncemented implants are most commonly used nowadays. We compare the rate of complications, clinical and radiological results of three different designs over 75-years-old patients. 433 hips implanted in patients over 75 years old were identified from our Local Joint Registry. Group A consisted of 139 tapered cemented hips, group B of 140 tapered grit-blasted uncemented hips and group C of 154 tapered porous-coated uncemented hips. A 28 mm femoral head size on polyethylene was used in all cases. The mean age was greater in group A and the physical activity level according to Devane was lower in this group (p<0.001 for both variables). Primary osteoarthritis was the most frequent diagnoses in all groups. The radiological acetabular shape was similar according to Dorr, however, an osteopenic-cylindrical femur was most frequently observed in group A (p<0.001). The pre- and post-operative clinical results were evaluated according to the Merle-D'Aubigne and Postel scale. Radiological cup position was assessed, including hip rotation centre distance according to Ranawat and cup anteversion according to Widmer. We also evaluated the lever arm and height of the greater trochanter distances and the stem position. Kaplan-Meier analysis was done for revision for any cause and loosening. The hip rotation centre distance was greater and the height of the greater trochanter was lower in group B (p=0.003, p<0.001, respectively). The lever arm distance was lower in group C (p<0.001). A varus stem position was more frequently observed in group B (p<0.001). There were no intra- or post-operative fractures in group A, although there were five intra-operative fractures in the other groups plus two post-operative fractures in group B and four in group C. The rate of dislocation was similar among groups and was the most frequent cause for revision surgery (8 hips for the whole series). The mean post-operative clinical score improved in all groups. The overall survival rate for revision for any cause at 120 months was 88.4% (95% CI 78.8–98), being 97.8% (95% CI 95.2–100) for group A, 81.8% (95% CI 64.8–98.8) for group B and 95.3% (95% CI 91.1–99.6) for group C (log Rank: 0.416). Five hips were revised for loosening. The overall survival rate for loosening at 120 months was 91.9% (95% CI 81.7–100), being 99.2%(95% CI 97.6–100) for group A, 85.5 (95% CI 69.9 −100) for group B and 100% for group C (Log Rank 0.093). Despite a more osteopenic bone in the cemented group, the rate of peri-prosthetic fractures was higher after uncemented THR in patients older than 75 years. Although the overall outcome is good with both types of fixation, the post-operative reconstruction of the hip, which might be more reliable after cemented fixation, may affect the rate of complications in this population

INTRODUCTION. The direct anterior approach (DAA) for total hip arthroplasty has become a popular technique. Proponents of the anterior approach cite advantages such as less muscle damage, lower dislocation risk, faster recovery, and more accurate implant placement for the approach. However, there is a steep, complex learning curve associated with the technique. The present study seeks to define the learning curve based on individual surgical and outcome variables for a high-volume surgeon. METHODS. 300 consecutive patients were retrospectively analyzed. Intraoperative outcomes measured include surgery time and estimated blood loss (EBL). Complications include intraoperative fracture, post-operative fracture, infection, dislocation, leg length discrepancy, loosening, and medical complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). Segmented regression models were used to elucidate the presence of a learning curve and mastery of the procedure with regard to each individual variable. RESULTS. The mean operative time was 77.1 minutes (range 40–213). Operative time improved at a rate of 6.6 minutes per case for the first 15 cases then by an average of 5 seconds per subsequent case. The mean EBL for the series was 288.6 mL. Segmented regression shows EBL decreased at a rapid rate until case 52, followed by a more gradual decline. Complications were higher in the first 7 surgeries, with a 48% decrease in the likelihood of complication with each subsequent surgery. The improvement continued through the rest of the series with a 0.5% decrease in likelihood with each surgery. DISCUSSION. Our data contributes to the current body of literature by defining the learning curve with what we consider the most pertinent outcomes. First, we show that operative efficiency can be gained quite quickly (15 cases) while the slower improvement in EBL demonstrates continued learning about the anatomy. Our data is consistent with previous published reports regarding complication improvement. The present study will provide surgeons considering DAA useful information regarding what to expect during their learning curve. Furthermore, the data can be useful for surgeons charged with teaching the technique to critically evaluate what learning curve variables can be improved to hasten the learning curve

Aims. In the initial development of total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA), the humeral component was usually fixed with cement. Cementless components were subsequently introduced. The aim of this study was to compare the long-term outcome of cemented and cementless humeral components in arthroplasty of the shoulder. Patients and Methods. All patients who underwent primary arthroplasty of the shoulder at our institution between 1970 and 2012 were included in the study. There were 4636 patients with 1167 cemented humeral components and 3469 cementless components. Patients with the two types of fixation were matched for nine different covariates using a propensity score analysis. A total of 551 well-balanced pairs of patients with cemented and cementless components were available after matching for comparison of the outcomes. The clinical outcomes which were analysed included loosening of the humeral component determined at revision surgery, periprosthetic fractures, post-operative infection and operating time. Results. The overall five-, ten-, 15- and 20-year rates of survival were 98.9%, 97.2%, 95.5%, and 94.4%, respectively. Survival without loosening at 20 years was 98% for cemented components and 92.4% for cementless components. After propensity score matching including fixation as determined by the design of the component, humeral loosening was also found to be significantly higher in the cementless group. Survival without humeral loosening at 20 years was 98.7% for cemented components and 91.0% for cementless components. There was no significant difference in the risk of intra- or post-operative fracture. The rate of survival without deep infection and the mean operating time were significantly higher in the cemented group. Conclusion. Both types of fixation give rates of long-term survival of > 90%. Cemented components have better rates of survival without loosening but this should be weighed against increased operating time and the risk of bony destruction of the proximal humerus at the time of revision of a cemented humeral component. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:666–73

Introduction: Ankle fractures are common in trauma practice. Traditional teaching has been to use two screws for medial malleolar fixation to achieve better rotational control. However, the evidence for this is limited. This study compares the outcome following either one or two screws for medial malleolar fracture fixation. Materials and Methods: Retrospective analysis of case notes and x-rays of all medial malleolar fracture fixations performed between 2002 to 2007. Two groups were formed (group-I and group-II) depending upon the use of either one or two screws, respectively. Both groups were age and sex matched. Besides patient demographics, fracture pattern according to Dennis–Webber classification, orientation of the medial malleolar fracture, position of screw in relation to fracture, post-operative fracture displacement and union (bony and clinical) were assessed. Patients were also contacted to assess whether they had returned to their pre-injury level of activities. Results: There were total of 76 patients (group-I had 37 and group-II had 39 patients). The majority were females with age range between 19 and 84 years with involvement of the right ankle mostly. In group-I, 15 patients had bi-malleolar Dennis-Webber type B fractures, 9 had bi-malleolar Dennis-Webber type C and 10 had tri-malleolar fractures. 3 had uni-malleolar fracture. In group-II, 20 patients had bi-malleolar Dennis-Webber type B fractures, 9 had bi-malleolar Dennis-Webber type C fractures and there were 5 tri-malleolar fractures. 5 had uni-malleolar fracture. The fracture orientation in both the groups was mostly horizontal than oblique and the screw placement was at an angle to the fracture in the majority of cases in both of them. There was no significant difference between the two groups, in terms of clinical union, post-operative fracture displacement and return of patients to their pre-injury level of activity. Conclusion: Medial malleolar fractures can be efficiently fixed with one screw only, which does not increase the risk of post-operative fracture fragment displacement, compared to using two screws

Although cemented fixation provides excellent results in primary total hip replacement (THR), particularly in patients older than 75 years, uncemented implants are most commonly used nowadays. We compare the rate of complications, clinical and radiological results of three different designs over 75-years-old patients. Materials and Methods. 433 hips implanted in patients over 75 years old were identified from our Local Joint Registry. Group A consisted of 139 tapered cemented hips, group B of 140 tapered grit-blasted uncemented hips and group C of 154 tapered porous-coated uncemented hips. A 28 mm femoral head size on polyethylene was used in all cases. The mean age was greater in group A and the physical activity level according to Devane was lower in this group (p<0.001 for both variables). Primary osteoarthritis was the most frequent diagnoses in all groups. The radiological acetabular shape was similar according to Dorr, however, an osteopenic-cylindrical femur was most frequently observed in group A (p<0.001). The pre- and post-operative clinical results were evaluated according to the Merle-D'Aubigne and Postel scale. Radiological cup position was assessed, including hip rotation centre distance according to Ranawat and cup anteversion according to Widmer. We also evaluated the lever arm and height of the greater trochanter distances and the stem position. Kaplan-Meier analysis was done for revision for any cause and loosening. Results. The hip rotation centre distance was greater and the height of the greater trochanter was lower in group B (p=0.003, p<0.001, respectively). The lever arm distance was lower in group C (p<0.001). A varus stem position was more frequently observed in group B (p<0.001). There were no intra- or post-operative fractures in group A, although there were five intra-operative fractures in the other groups plus two post-operative fractures in group B and four in group C. The rate of dislocation was similar among groups and was the most frequent cause for revision surgery (8 hips for the whole series). The mean post-operative clinical score improved in all groups. The overall survival rate for revision for any cause at 120 months was 88.4% (95% CI 78.8–98), being 97.8% (95% CI 95.2–100) for group A, 81.8% (95% CI 64.8–98.8) for group B and 95.3% (95% CI 91.1–99.6) for group C (log Rank: 0.416). Five hips were revised for loosening. The overall survival rate for loosening at 120 months was 91.9% (95% CI 81.7–100), being 99.2%(95% CI 97.6–100) for group A, 85.5 (95% CI 69.9 −100) for group B and 100% for group C (Log Rank 0.093). Conclusions. Despite a more osteopenic bone in the cemented group, the rate of peri-prosthetic fractures was higher after uncemented THR in patients older than 75 years. Although the overall outcome is good with both types of fixation, the post-operative reconstruction of the hip, which might be more reliable after cemented fixation, may affect the rate of complications in this population

Economic data, clinical outcome studies, and anatomical studies continue to support the Superior Hip Approach as a preferred approach for improved safety, maximal tissue preservation, rapid recovery, and minimised cost. Clinical studies show exceedingly low rates of all major complications including femur fracture, dislocation, and nerve injury. Economic data from Q1 2013 to Q2 2016 demonstrate that CMS-insured patients treated by the Superior Hip Approach have the lowest cost of all patients treated in Massachusetts by an average of more than $7,000 over 90 days. The data show that the patients treated by the Superior Hip Approach have lower cost than any other surgical technique. Matched-pair bioskills dissections demonstrate far better preservation of the hip joint capsule and short external rotators than the anterior approach. Design principles include: Preservation of the abductors; Preservation of the posterior capsule and short external rotators; Preparation of the femur in situ prior to femoral neck osteotomy; Excision of the femoral head, thereby avoiding surgical dislocation of the hip; In-line access to the femoral shaft axis; Ability to perform a trial reduction; Independence from intra-operative imaging; Independence from a traction table; Applicable to at least 99% of THA procedures. Conclusion. In contrast to the results of the Superior Approach, the anterior approach continues to show difficulties with wound problems, infection, intra- and post-operative fracture, and failure of femoral component osseointegration and even dislocation. Evidence continues to demonstrate that the Superior Hip Approach has advantages over all other surgical approaches to the hip

The incidence of periprosthetic fractures of the ankle is increasing. However, little is known about the outcome of treatment and their management remains controversial. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of periprosthetic fractures on the functional and radiological outcome of patients with a total ankle arthroplasty (TAA). A total of 505 TAAs (488 patients) who underwent TAA were retrospectively evaluated for periprosthetic ankle fracture: these were then classified according to a recent classification which is orientated towards treatment. The outcome was evaluated clinically using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and a visual analogue scale for pain, and radiologically. . A total of 21 patients with a periprosthetic fracture of the ankle were identified. There were 13 women and eight men. The mean age of the patients was 63 years (48 to 74). Thus, the incidence of fracture was 4.17%. . There were 11 intra-operative and ten post-operative fractures, of which eight were stress fractures and two were traumatic. The prosthesis was stable in all patients. Five stress fractures were treated conservatively and the remaining three were treated operatively. . A total of 17 patients (81%) were examined clinically and radiologically at a mean follow-up of 53.5 months (12 to 112). The mean AOFAS score at follow-up was 79.5 (21 to 100). The mean AOFAS score in those with an intra-operative fracture was 87.6 (80 to 100) and for those with a stress fracture, which were mainly because of varus malpositioning, was 67.3 (21 to 93). Periprosthetic fractures of the ankle do not necessarily adversely affect the clinical outcome, provided that a treatment algorithm is implemented with the help of a new classification system. . Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:950–6

Background. The Fracture Fixation Assessment Tool score (FFATs) was developed as an objective evaluation of post-operative fracture fixation radiographs as a means of appraisal and education. The tool has proven validity, simple to use and based upon AO principles of fracture fixation. This study has been designed to assess how FFATs changes throughout the training program in the UK. Methods. The local trauma database of a district general hospital, with trauma unit status was used to identify cases. Although FFATs is designed to apply to any fracture fixation, Weber B ankle fractures were selected as common injuries, which constitute indicative cases in T&O training. Grade of the primary surgeon and supervision level were both stratified. The initial and intraoperative radiographs were anonymised and presented to the assessor who had been blinded to the identity and grade of the surgeon, for scoring using FFATs. Results. 293 fractures around the ankle were identified from the Database between 2013 and 2016. After applying the inclusion criteria of Weber B fractures operatively fixed, Specialist training registrars and consultants, there were 99 cases for evaluation. These were grouped by training experience into 4 groups. (ST3-4, ST5-6, ST7-8, Consultants) and demonstrated a trend of increasing scores with experience level with a dip in consultant scores, albeit not statistically significant due to low numbers of cases at higher training grades. Conclusions. We present our first experience of using FFATs in a uniform series of fractures in surgeons of different training grades. There is a trend to increasing scores throughout training with a dip in consultant scores likely reflecting increased complexity of cases. Implications. FFATs could prove to be an invaluable appraisal tool for teaching and mentoring surgeons in training both locally in the United Kingdom and remotely overseas