Introduction

Acetabular component orientation is an important determinant of outcome following total hip arthroplasty (THA). Although surgeons aim to achieve optimal cup orientation, many studies demonstrate their inability to consistently achieve this. Factors that contribute are pelvic orientation and the surgeon's ability to correctly orient the cup at implantation. The goal of this study was to determine the accuracy with which surgeons can achieve cup orientation angles.

Introduction

In total hip arthroplasty, a high radiographic inclination angle (RI) of the acetabular component has been linked to short- and long-term complications. There are several factors that lead to RI outliers including cup version, pelvic orientation and angle of the cup introducer relative to the floor. The primary aim of this study was to analyse what increases the risk of having a cup with an RI outside the target zone when controlling cup orientation with a digital inclinometer.

The orientation of the acetabular component is influenced by the orientation at which the surgeon implants the component and the orientation of the pelvis at the time of implantation. When operating with the patient in the lateral decubitus position, pelvic orientation can be highly variable. The goal of this study was to examine the effect of two different pelvic supports on cup orientation.

In this prospective study, 200 consecutive patients undergoing uncemented primary THA in the lateral decubitus position were included. In the control group a single support over the pubic symphysis (PS) was used. In the study group, a single support over the ipsilateral anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) was used. In every patient, the cup was inserted and the angle of the cup introducer relative to the floor (apparent operative inclination; OIa) was measured with the aid of a digital inclinometer. The radiographic inclination (RI) was measured on anteroposterior pelvic radiographs at 6 weeks postoperatively. The target zone for cup inclination was 35–45°.

In both cohorts the cups were implanted close to the target OIa with an absolute difference with the OIa of 0.86° SD 0.82 in the PS cohort and 1.03° SD 0.99 in the ASIS cohort (p=0.18). The difference between the RI and OIa was higher in the PS cohort 12.2° SD 4.1 compared with 7.5° SD 3.7 in the ASIS cohort (p<0.0001) with also a bigger variance (p=0.04) in the PS cohort. The mean RI was 38.5° SD 4.4 compared with 39.2° SD 4.1 (p=0.26) respectively. There were more cups outside the RI target zone in the PS cohort compared with the ASIS cohort (respectively 26 versus 15; p<0.05).

In this study the mean difference between the RI and OIa (the angle of the cup introducer during surgery) was significantly less when using a support over the ASIS compared with a support over the pubic symphysis. Apparently using a support over the ASIS causes less pelvic motion during surgery compared with a support over the pubic symphysis. This resulted in less variance and inclination outliers when using a tight target zone of 35–45°.

Aims

The most effective surgical approach for total hip arthroplasty (THA) remains controversial. The direct anterior approach may be associated with a reduced risk of dislocation, faster recovery, reduced pain and fewer surgical complications. This systematic review aims to evaluate the current evidence for the use of this approach in THA.

Aims

One goal of total hip arthroplasty is to restore normal hip anatomy. The aim of this study was to compare displacement of the centre of rotation (COR) using a standard reaming technique with a technique in which the acetabulum was reamed immediately peripherally and referenced off the rim.

Introduction

In total hip arthroplasty (THA), a high radiographic inclination angle (RI) of the acetabular component has been linked to an increased dislocation rate, liner fracture, and increased wear. In contrast to version, we have more proven boundaries when it comes to a safe zone for angles of RI. Although intuitively it seems easier to achieve a target RI, most studies demonstrate a lack of accuracy and the trend towards a high RI with all surgical approaches when using a freehand technique or a mechanical guide. This is due to pelvic motion during surgery, which can be highly variable.

The current study had two primary aims, each with a different primary outcome. The first aim was to determine how accurate a surgeon could obtain the target operative inclination (OI) during THA when using a cementless cup using a digital protractor. The second aim was to determine how accurate a surgeon can estimate the target OI to obtain a RI of 40° based on the patient's hip circumference as demonstrated in a previous study.

Introduction

A high inclination angle has been linked to an increased dislocation rate, liner fracture, and increased wear. The aim of this study was to compare the operative (OI) with the radiological inclination (RI) angle and determine the influence of patient morphology on pelvic tilt and cup inclination angle.

A high radiographic inclination angle (RI) contributes to accelerated wear and has been associated with dislocation after total hip arthroplasty (THA). With freehand positioning of the acetabular component there is a lack of accuracy, with a trend towards a high radiographic inclination angle. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the use of a digital protractor to measure the operative inclination angle (OI) could improve the positioning of the acetabular component in relation to a ‘safe zone’.

We measured the radiographic inclination angles of 200 consecutive uncemented primary THAs. In the first 100 the component was introduced freehand and in the second 100 a digital protractor was used to measure the operative inclination angle.

The mean difference between the operative and the radiographic inclination angles (∆RI–OI) in the second cohort was 12.3° (3.8° to 19.8°). There was a strong correlation between the circumference of the hip and ∆RI–OI. The number of RI outliers was significantly reduced in the protractor group (p = 0.002).

Adjusting the OI, using a digital protractor and taking into account the circumference of the patient’s hip, improves the RI significantly (p < 0.001) and does not require additional operating time.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015; 97-B:603–610.

The orientation of the acetabular component can influence both the short- and long-term outcomes of total hip replacement (THR). We performed a prospective, randomised, controlled trial of two groups, comprising of 40 patients each, in order to compare freehand introduction of the component with introduction using the transverse acetabular ligament (TAL) as a reference for anteversion. Anteversion and inclination were measured on pelvic radiographs.

With respect to anteversion, in the freehand group 22.5% of the components were outside the safe zone versus 0% in the transverse acetabular ligament group (p = 0.002). The mean angle of anteversion in the freehand group was 21° (2° to 35°) which was significantly higher compared with 17° (2° to 25°) in the TAL group (p = 0.004). There was a significant difference comparing the variations of both groups (p = 0.008).

With respect to inclination, in the freehand group 37.5% of the components were outside the safe zone versus 20% in the TAL group (p = 0.14). There was no significant difference regarding the accuracy or variation of the angle of inclination when comparing the two groups.

The transverse acetabular ligament may be used to obtain the appropriate anteversion when introducing the acetabular component during THR, but not acetabular component inclination.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:312–18.

Introduction

Biomechanical studies have shown that a long, centrally placed screw is favourable in scaphoid fracture fixation. A volar percutaneous transtrapezial approach was developed to facilitate central screw placement. The purpose of this study was to evaluate radiographic changes at the ST-joint at long term follow up in patients where this approach was used.

Background

Cemented femoral stems have an excellent long-term outcome. Modern cement techniques should be used to optimize femoral stem fixation. Bleeding from the bone surface during cemented hip arthroplasty compromises the bone-cement interface. However, no studies have examined this bleeding in vivo nor the effect the different cleaning methods used. In the present study we evaluated bleeding patterns and efficacy of cleaning methods used in third generation cementing techniques.

Introduction

In recent years, there has been a significant advancement in our understanding of femoro-acetabular impingement and associated labral and chondral pathology. Surgeons worldwide have demonstrated the successful treatment of these lesions via arthroscopic and open techniques. The aim of this study is to validate a simple and reproducible classification system for acetabular chondral lesions.

Introduction: In recent years, there has been a significant advancement in our understanding of femoro-acetabular impingement and associated labral and chondral pathology. Surgeons worldwide have demonstrated the successful treatment of these lesions via arthroscopic and open techniques. The aim of this study is to validate a simple and reproducible classification system for acetabular chondral lesions.

Methods: In our classification system, the acetabulum is first divided into 6 zones as described by Ilizalithurri VM et al [Arthroscopy 24(5) 534–539]. The cartilage is then graded as 0 to 4 as follows: Grade 0 – normal articular cartilage lesions; Grade 1 softening or wave sign; Grade 2 – cleavage lesion; Grade 3 – delamination and Grade 4 -exposed bone. The site of the lesion is further typed as A, B or C based on whether the lesion is 1/3 distance from acetabular rim to cotyloid fossa, 1/3 to 2/3 distance from acetabular rim to cotyloid fossa and > 2/3 distance from acetabular rim to cotyloid fossa.

For validating the classification system, six surgeons reviewed 14 hip arthroscopy video clips. All surgeons were provided with written explanation of our classification system. Each surgeon then individually graded the cartilage lesion. A single observer then compared results for observer variability using kappa statistics.

Results: We observed a high inter-observer reliability of the classification system with a kappa coefficient of 0.89 (range 0.78 to 0.91) and high intra-observer reliability with a kappa coefficient of 0.91 (range 0.89 to 0.96).

Discussion: In conclusion we have developed a simple reproducible classification system for acetabular cartilage lesions.

There have been considerable recent advances in the understanding and management of femoroacetabular impingement and associated labral and chondral pathology. We have developed a classification system for acetabular chondral lesions. In our system, we use the six acetabular zones previously described by Ilizaliturri et al. The cartilage is then graded on a scale of 0 to 4 as follows: grade 0, normal articular cartilage lesions; grade 1, softening or wave sign; grade 2, cleavage lesion; grade 3, delamination; and grade 4, exposed bone. The site of the lesion is further classed as A, B or C based on whether the lesion is less than one-third of the distance from the acetabular rim to the cotyloid fossa, one-third to two-thirds of the same distance and greater than two-thirds of the distance, respectively. In order to validate the classification system, six surgeons graded ten video recordings of hip arthroscopy.

Our findings showed a high intra-observer reliability of the classification system with an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.81 and a high interobserver reliability with an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.88.

We have developed a simple reproducible classification system for lesions of the acetabular cartilage, which it is hoped will allow standardised documentation to be made of damage to the articular cartilage, particularly that associated with femoroacetabular impingement.

Background: Cam-type femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is becoming more recognized. Cartilage lesions of the acetabulum and labral tears are frequently encountered. The goal of this study was to accurately describe and communicate these injuries and thus providing a standard for reporting injury, management, and outcome.

Methods: We evaluated acetabular cartilage lesions and labral tears found during hip arthroscopy in 52 patients with radiological signs of cam-type FAI. They were graded according to the morphology and extent of the lesion. The labral tears were described according to the classification by Lage.

Results: Eleven patients (21.2%) had normal cartilage, 14 (26.9%) had a grade 1, 17 (32.7%) a grade 2, 6 (11.5%) a grade 3, and 4 (7.7%) a grade 4 lesion. Labral tears were found in 31 patients (59.6%). There was a high correlation between age and the presence and extent of acetabular cartilage and labral lesions (r=0.70; p< 0.0001 and r=0.45; p< 0.001 respectively). There was also a high correlation between the extent of the acetabular cartilage lesion and the presence of labral lesions (r=0.62; p< 0.0001).

Conclusion: In our study there was a high prevalence of associated injuries (86.5%) in cam-type FAI. Despite the recognized consequences of associated lesions on treatment and outcome, no classification system includes this aspect of FAI. Based on our findings, we developed a system to grade acetabular cartilage lesions according to their morphology and extent. This should provide the surgeon with a standardized tool to better describe the full extent of the injury and treat it accordingly.

Introduction: Meniscal injuries are common and a potential source of osteoarthritis of the knee. This has led to the development of techniques to repair meniscal tears. The goal of this study was to look at the independent variables that have an influence on the outcome and identify factors that might improve future clinical results.

Method: A total of 119 meniscal repairs were included in this study and evaluated at minumum 72 months postoperatively (range 72–86). Meniscal repair was done by an arthroscopically assisted technique: inside-out, all-inside or by a combination of both techniques. Patients with menisci repaired were clinically evaluated. We performed examinations using the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) form and the Lysholm score. Radiological analysis of the knees was done by means of the Ahlback classification pre- and postoperatively. Variables that were analyzed were age, gender, type of repair, chronicity of the lesion, zone of injury, morphology of the tear, involvement of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), and the compartment involved. Statistical analysis was done by means of logistic regression.

Results: The overall clinical success rate for meniscal repair was 74.0%. In 73.1% of the cases, the mensiscal injury was associated with an injury of the ACL. Patients with an associated ACL injury had a better chance for a successfull outcome, but this was only significantly when the ACL injury was repaired (p< 0.05). There was no difference between the male and female patients regarding outcome. A delay in treatment for 6 weeks or more resulted in significantly worse results (p< 0.001). Younger patients had significantly better outcome results (p< 0.05). Better results were obtained when the inside-out technique was used for meniscal repair (p< 0.05).

Discussion: Our data confirm the good outcome results of meniscal repair. In our hands, a meniscal repair has the highest likelihood of success in young patients, with a concomitant ACL injury that is repaired at the same time. Better outcome scores were observed when the inside-out technique was used and when menisci where repaired within 6 weeks of the initial injury.

Aim: Component positioning may be adversely affected by minimally invasive approach in total hip replacement due to restricted visualization. Problems with proper alignement are suggested to concern anteversion more than inclination and occur particulary in the lateral position.

Method: 53 patients were enrolled prospectively randomised to each group. First group (standard group, n= 30pts) underwent conventional total hip replacement in supine position and transgluteal approach and second group (MIS group, n= 23pts) underwent THR using minimally invasive anterior approach in lateral decubitus position Every group was operated on by two experienced senior surgeons. Desired cup position was 40°–45°inclination and 15–20° anteversion for the MIS group and 45°inclination and 15 ° anteversion for standard group. Postoperatively all patients had pelvic CT scan. Inclination and anteversion were determined by an independent observer using a 3-D model and planning software, the operative definition was used according to Murray.

Results: Mean inclination/anteversion in the MIS group was 39°(26°–50°)/25°(10°–47°), and 44°(29°–57°)/22°(1°–53°) within the standard group. Standard deviation for inclination was 7° for both groups, and 10° (MIS group) vs 14° (standard group) for anteversion.

The difference in the mean values regarding inclination was greater than would be expected by chance; there was a statistically significant difference (P = 0,010).

Discussion: In general cup positioning in both groups was less steep and more anteverted as presumed. The standard deviation for inclination was the same in both groups, but the standard deviation for anteversion was less in MIS group, that means less outliers regarding anteversion. Cup positioning in minimally invasive total hip replacement is safe compared to traditional approach.

Navigation technique was discussed to equalize the drawback of MIS. However, tools like imageless navigation may further improve the cup position even in traditional approach.

The aim of our study was to determine the usefulness of preoperative digital templating of cementless total hip arthroplasty (THA).

60 consecutive cementless THA (synergy stem & reflection cup) were templated digitally by two senior hip arthroplasty fellows (GM, YG) independently. A metallic marker ball of known diameter was used in all images to help scale for magnification. A blinded observer then collated information on the actual implant sizes, size of head component, offset, and level of neck cut intraoperatively. This was used to statistically analyse the correlation (Interclass correlation coefficient) between the digitally templated implant sizes and actual implant sizes used and the reliability of digital templating.

A high rate of coincidence between digitally templated estimates and actual implant sizes was noted for both groups of templates. A high intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for the acetabular cup, stem and head were noted (ICC of 0.825, 0.794, and 0.884 respectively). Moderate agreement was noted for neck cut (ICC of 0.567) and leg length (ICC of 0.612).

In conclusion, digital templating can reliably estimate implant sizes in cementless total hip arthroplasty. Valuable information on neck cut and leg length can be obtained by preoperative templating.

Introduction: The Birmingham Hip Resurfacing (BHR) is the most commonly used hip resurfacing for the treatment of hip osteoarthritis. The goal of this study was to evaluate how the surgeon could influence the biomechanical features of the navigated and non-navigated resurfaced proximal femur. METHODS 20 Cadaver hips were resurfaced with a BHR using femoral navigation. The native anteversion and neck shaft angle as indicated by the navigation system were used as a reference. The non-navigated femoral component jig was first placed in the “ideal” position aiming for 10° of valgus and neutral anteversion. The jig was then displaced 5mm in 4 directions. The anteversion and stem shaft angle (SSA) angle were measured for each position using the navigation system. A scaled XR was taken pre- and post-operatively. For statistical analysis, the paired Student’s T-test with a confidence interval of 95% and a significant p-value of p< 0.05 was used.

Results: The centre of rotation (COR) of the navigated resurfaced femur was 3,5 mm significantly (p=0,0006) more distal in the femoral neck than the native COR. This resulted in a 2.1 mm vertical caudal drop (vertical offset) and an average 2.7 mm lateral displacement of the COR (horizontal offset). The same measurements were done with 5° increments of the SSA from 120° to 140°. The vertical offset loss increased non-significantly (1.7 to 2.6 mm). The horizontal offset loss decreased non-significantly (3 to 2.2 mm). The native vertical and horizontal offset could be restored if 5 mm less bone was taken off the femur. The offset loss was significantly increased if 5 mm more bone than the normal reaming had been taken off (p< 0.0001). The “ideal” jig position on the lateral femoral cortex led to an average 137° SSA. Five millimetres of jig displacement on the lateral cortex in either direction did not lead to significant changes in the SSA or anteversion angles relative to the “ideal” position (all p> 0,13). Five millimetres of posterior displacement resulted in an average 139° SSA and 5,8° of anteversion in 95% of hips.

Conclusion: Surgical interventions can significantly change the biomechanics of the hip. Increasing the SSA with a fixed femoral head entry point, as often is done with navigation, does not significantly change the femoral offset. If the surgeon decides to take less bone off the femur, then the offset could be restored and even increased to 1 mm more than the native femur. If due to pathologic changes the bone loss would be increased to 5mm more than the “normal” bone loss, a significant offset loss of > 5 mm could be expected which might lead to detrimental biomechanical effects. The positioning of the jig is subject to surgical errors. The effect of a 5 mm error in either direction does not lead to significant changes in anteversion or SSA. Posterior displacement led to the most reproducible component positioning.