There is debate regarding whether the use of computer-assisted technology, such as navigation and robotics, has any benefit on clinical or patient reported outcomes following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This study aims to report on the association between intraoperative use of technology and outcomes in patients who underwent primary TKA. We retrospectively reviewed 7,096 patients who underwent primary TKA from 2016–2020. Patients were stratified depending on the technology utilized intraoperatively: navigation, robotics, or no technology. Patient demographics, clinical data, Forgotten Joint Score-12 (FJS), and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement (KOOS, JR) were collected at various time points up to 1-year follow-up. Demographic differences were assessed with chi-square and ANOVA tests. Clinical data and mean FJS and KOOS, JR scores were compared using univariate ANCOVA, controlling for demographic differences.Introduction
Methods
Proper positioning of the acetabular cup deters dislocation after total hip arthroplasty (THA) and is therefore a key focus for orthopedic surgeons. The concept of a safe zone for acetabular component placement was first characterized by Lewinnek For any figures or tables, please contact the authors directly.
While tranexamic acid (TXA) has been well shown to reduce blood loss after joint replacement surgery, little is known regarding its effectiveness in obese patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of TXA changes in hematocrit and hemoglobin levels as well as incidence of packed red blood cell (pRBC) transfusions in obese patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty (TJA). Between January 2014 and May 2015, 420 consecutive primary joint replacements were performed by two surgeons at our institution. 157 patients (THA=29; TKA=128) were obese with a body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to 30 kg/m2. Medical records were reviewed and identified that TXA was utilized in 85 (54.1%) arthroplasties [study group] and was compared to a consecutive series of 72 (45.9%) TJAs [control group]. TXA was given intravenously(IV) in two doses: (1) one gram prior to incision and (2) one gram at the time of femoral preparation in THA or prior to cementation in TKA. Changes in hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, number of pRBC transfusions, and occurrence of thrombolytic events were recorded.Background
Material and Methods
Exparel (Pacira Pharmaceuticals, Parsippany, NJ, USA) is a long-acting liposomal Bupivacaine extended release compound that can be used as peri-articular injection (PAI) or regional nerve block. The purpose of this study was to compare the post-operative analgesic efficacy of Exparel as a single administration adductor canal block (ACB) varsus PAI. From May 2016 to June of 2017, 70 patients with primary knee osteoarthritis undergoing unilateral knee replacement were prospectively randomized into two cohorts: 1) PAI (Exparel 266 mg (20 ml vial) with 20 ml of 0.5% bupivacaine HCl, and normal saline to a total volume of 120 ml); 2) ACB (Subsartorial saphenous nerve using Exparel 266 mg in 20 ml vial). All patents underwent spinal anesthesia with comprehensive pre-emptive and postoperative multimodal pain protocol. All opioids given were converted to morphine equivalents. Pain was recorded at 4 – 12 hrs (day of surgery), post-operative day (POD) 1, 2, and 3 after surgery.Background
Methods
There is a recent interest and focus on reducing the length of stay and early discharge after total joint replacement (TJR). However, safety criteria for same-day (SD) or next-day (ND) home discharge are not well defined. We implemented a screening questionnaire to identify patients that qualify for early home discharge. The aim of this study was to assess the efficiency of this questionnaire and short-term outcomes including re-admission and peri-operative complications after TJR. Between January 2016 and July 2017, 423 consecutive primary hip and knee arthroplasties were performed by the two senior surgeons at our institution. All cases were followed for a minimum of 3-month prospectively after institutional review board approval. Patients were divided based on using a pre-operative questionnaire to determine their disposition after surgery. Group 1 includes 121 cases as control and group 2 includes 302 cases with pre-operative questionnaire. Spinal anesthesia and multimodal pain management including peri-articular injection was used in all cases. The pre-operative questionnaire (PQ, Swiftpath, Inc) included an overall score based on age, comorbidities, body mass index, physical assessment, motivation, comprehension, family support, home setup (i.e. easy access/stairs), proximity to the hospital and lack of serious barriers to early home discharge. Patients were divided into 3 categories based on the score: SD/ND home, regular home discharge and rehabilitation/subacute nursing facility (SNF) discharge. Length of stay (LOS), post-operative complications, readmissions, and discharge destination were assessed. Correlation the questionnaire score and outcomes were assessed.Background
Methods
We identified several opportunities to significantly reduce cost for hip and knee arthroplasty procedures:
Customized instruments: by identifying the essential instruments for arthroplasty cases, we managed to have one universal tray for each case, and 3 specific trays from the implant manufacturing company. Customized wrap-free, color-coded, stackable trays: by using a wrap-free trays, preparation time in central sterile, opening tray time in OR and turn-over time were reduced. Also, stackable trays were organized based on side and size, therefore only 2 trays needed to be used in each case. Discounted implants: negotiated through optional case coverage with revision system and reps available as backup. Optional rep coverage protocols: designed through process management of the operating room surgical staff and central sterile Aim of the study was to measure the cost savings, efficacy, and outcomes associated with primary total hip and knee arthroplasty by implementing these protocol This is a prospective study from January to October 2016 for selected primary total hip and knee arthroplasties were performed with the above protocols by 2 experienced arthroplasty trained surgeons, were followed for minimum 3 months. Initiating the cost saving protocols were achieved by re-engineering customized trays, discounted implants through optional case coverage (Sourced Based Selection of a Cooperating Manufacturer, MTD), and focused on process management of the staff training. Staff responsibilities were divided into 2 categories:
Familiarity of the instruments, implant, and techniques; trays set up and assurance of availability of the implants. These responsibilities were covered by a trained OR technician and the surgeon Final verification of the accurate implants prior to opening the packaging. This was achieved by a trained OR nurse and the surgeonBackground
Methods
Hip and knee device sales representatives (reps) can provide intra-operative guidance through their knowledge of the products, especially in complicated cases such as revision hip and knee arthroplasty. However, for an experienced arthroplasty surgeon in the majority of straightforward primary cases, the rep's presence may not be required for clinical decision-makings. With recent challenges in cost savings and bundle payments, hospitals and surgeons have focused on reducing the implant costs, among others, with a “repless” model. The aim of this study was to describe the process of utilizing this model, assess its efficacy, and analyze the cost savings in primary hip arthroplasty. During the month of January 2016, 20 cases of primary, straightforward total hip arthroplasties were performed with the repless model by 2 experienced arthroplasty trained surgeons. All patients were followed prospectively for minimum 3 months. Prior to initiating the repless model, we focused on process management of the operating room with staff training and re-engineering of the trays to obtain a setup that included one hospital tray and one device company tray for each operation. The responsibilities of the rep were divided into 2 categories for better management:
Familiarity of the instruments, implant, and techniques; trays set up and assurance of availability of the implants. These responsibilities were covered by a trained OR technician and the surgeon Final verification of the accurate implants prior to opening the packaging. This was done by a trained OR nurse and the surgeonIntroduction
Methods
We previously reported a 28% short-term corrosion-related revision rate of recalled Rejuvenate modular stem. The purpose of this study was to assess the mid-term clinical results and survivorship of this implant. Between June 2009 and July 2012, 73 total hip arthroplasty (THA) in 63 patients with the Rejuvenate modular neck implant were performed by a single surgeon and prospectively followed. Average age was 63.2 ± 12.6 years (28 to 86). Elevated metal ion (= 2 µg/L), pain, or positive MRI findings were indication for revision surgery. Correlation between patient factors with serum metal ion levels and revisions were analyzed.Introduction
Methods
While tranexamic acid (TXA) has been well shown to reduce blood loss after joint replacement surgery, little is known regarding its effectiveness in obese patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of TXA on packed red blood cell (PRBC) blood transfusion rates and change in hemoglobin (HGB) and hematocrit (HCT) for obese patients undergoing joint replacement at our institution. Between January and December 2014, 117 consecutive primary joint replacements (THA n=23; TKA n=94) were performed in obese patients (BMI ≥ 30kg/m2) by two surgeons. Medical records were reviewed and identified that TXA was utilized in 45 (38.5%) arthroplasties. TXA was given intravenously (IV) in two doses: (1) one gram prior to incision and (2) one gram at the time of femoral preparation in THA or prior to cementation in TKA. Topical TXA was utilized in cases where IV TXA was contraindicated. PRBC transfusion rates, changes in HBG and HCT, and occurrence of thrombolytic events were recorded from hospital records.Background
Material and methods
Post-operative deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and subsequent pulmonary embolism (PE) remain a serious complication after total joint replacement. Although with modern chemical and mechanical prophylaxis and rapid rehabilitation the rate of symptomatic DVT and PE has reduced, isolation of pre-operative DVT, especially in patients with prior history of DVT remains a challenge. The aim of this study was to assess the utility of pre-operative dopplers as a tool to screen and reduce DVT/PE rate in patients undergoing total joint replacement. Between January 2014 and December 2014, 211 elective primary hip and knee arthroplasty were identified from our prospective institutional database as two consecutive cohorts (115 cases had pre-operative dopplers and 96 did not). All cases were performed by two adult reconstruction specialists. All primary total hip arthroplasties (THA) were non-cemented and all primary total knee arthroplasties (TKA) were cemented with similar implant and technique. In the first cohort, all cases underwent routine pre-operative doppler screening and in the control cohort, only patients with prior history of DVT or PE underwent pre-operative dopplers. All patients with clinical symptoms of calf pain underwent post-operative dopplers. Patients were followed for a minimum of 3 month post-operatively. All emergency room (ER) visits for role out DVT were identified. No patient was lost to follow.Background
Methods
Several studies have shown that functional outcomes are similar regardless of being discharged directly to home or to a rehabilitation center after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Therefore, we sought to determine if there is a difference in patient care or patient satisfaction for patients discharged to in-patient rehabilitation or home-based rehabilitation. Between February and May of 2015, one hundred and seventy one consecutive patients were prospective identified after undergoing TKA by one of three surgeons. At an average of six-weeks post TKA, all patients were asked a patient administered questionnaire to determine if diagnostic testing (ultrasounds, or x-rays) or blood transfusions were performed during the first-six weeks at either home (n=86) or a rehab (n=85) facility.Introduction
Materials and Methods
Acetabular fixation is one of the major factors affecting long-term longevity and durability of total hip arthroplasty (THA). Limited data exist regarding mid-term performance of modern non-cemented rim-fit cups with HA coating. The aim of this study was to assess the minimum 5 year clinical and radiographic performance of PSL cups. Therefore we retrospectively analyzed results of this component in patients that had adequate followup from a prospective institutional database. A retrospective analysis of a prospective database was performed to identify patients that underwent non-cemented THA between 2003 and 2007. 223 primary THA (210 patients) were performed by single surgeon via posterolaeral approach using a grit-blasted, HA coated rim-fit design and highly cross-linked polyethylene and were followed with minimum 5 years. The mean age was 62.5 years ± 10.8. The majority of the stems were non-cemented (87%) and the majority of the femoral heads were metal (75%), 22- or 28-mm diameter. 72% of the cups were solid and 28% were multi-hole. Clinical assessment included the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) hip score [18] at final follow-up, and Kaplan-Meier survivorship. All patients received pre- and post-operative anteroposterior (AP) weight bearing pelvis radiograph as well as a false profile view of the hip. Cup positioning was analyzed using the EBRA software (Einzel-Bild-Roentgen-Analysis; University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria) for functional abduction angle, anteversion, and cup migration. Osseointegration was assessed on the DeLee and Charnley's zones on both AP and false profile views. Osseointegration was defined based on the following characteristics: presence of Stress Induced Reactive Cancellous Bone (SIRCaB), where new bone condensation (not apparent on preoperative radiographs) was present at the load bearing area of the cup (Figure 1) presence of radial trabeculae that project in continuum from the shell into the pelvis, suggesting integration of the trabecular bone onto the metal surface at the load bearing area, (Figure 2) absence of radiolucency. Radiolucency was determined by radiolucent lines that were at least 1–2 mm wide and were seen in sequential radiographs, not apparent on the initial postoperative radiograph. Linear and rotational migration was defined as > 3 mm or > 5°change in the cup position, respectively, as measured on serial radiographs. Any changes in cup position or presence of circumferential radiolucencies were considered as loosening.Introduction
Materials and Methods
Reducing readmissions after total joint arthroplasty (TJA) is challenging. Pre-operative risk stratification and optimization pre surgical care may be helpful in reducing readmission rates after primary TJA. Assessment of the predictive value of individual modifiable risk factors without a tool to properly stratify patients may not be helpful to the surgical community to reduce the risk of readmission. We developed a scoring system: Readmission Risk Assessment Tool (RRAT) as part of a Perioperative Orthopaedic Surgical Home model that allows for risk stratification in patients undergoing elective primary TJA at our institution. We analyzed the relationship between the RRAT score and readmission following primary hip or knee arthroplasty. The RRAT, which is scored incrementally based on the number and severity of modifiable comorbidities was used to generate readmission scores for a cohort of 207 readmitted and 2 cohorts of 234 (random and age-matched) non-readmitted patients each. Regression analysis was performed to assess the strength of association between individual risk factors, RRAT score and readmissions. We also calculated the odds and odds ratio (OR) at each level of RRAT score to identify patients with relatively higher risk of readmission.Introduction
Methods
Wear and osteolysis are major contributors, which limit the durability of total hip Arthroplasty (THA) and ultimately cause it to fail. Efforts were made to decrease wear by highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE) and using ceramic bearings. The purpose of this study is to analyze and compare the five year performance of large sized (32mm and 36mm) ceramic and metal heads on X3 HXLPE (Stryker, Mahwah, NJ, USA).Background
Questions/Purposes
Highly cross-linked polyethylene (HCLPE) was introduced to reduce wear and osteolysis in total hip arthroplasty (THA). There is no reported data regarding wear rates and clinical performance of Crossfire HCLPE (Stryker, Mahwah, New Jersey) in young and active patients. The purpose of this prospective study is to assess minimum 10-year wear rates and survivorship of Crossfire in young and active patients. Between January 2001 to December 2003, 52 consecutive THAs (43 patients; 26 males and 17 females), 55 years and younger, with an average University of California Los Angeles activity (UCLA) score of 7.3 ± 1.5 (5 – 10) at the time of surgery were prospectively followed. The mean age of patients was 47.4 ± 7.8 years old (range 24 to 55 years). Indication for surgery included osteoarthritis in all cases. All operations were performed by the senior surgeon via a posterolateral approach. All components were non-cemented SecurFit femoral stem, 28 mm Cobalt-Chromium (Co-Cr) femoral head, and Trident PSL cup with Crossfire HCLPE acetabular liner (Stryker, Mahwah, New Jersey). At minimum 10-years follow-up (mean 11.5 ± 0.94 years), wear rates were assessed using the Roman software. Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) scores and survivorship data were analyzed.Background
Material and Methods
Post-operative deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and subsequent pulmonary embolism (PE) remain a serious complication after total joint replacement. Although with modern chemical and mechanical prophylaxis and rapid rehabilitation the rate of symptomatic DVT and PE has reduced, isolation of pre-operative DVT, specially in patients with prior history of DVT remains a challenge. The aim of this study was to assess the use of pre-operative dopplers as a tool to detect and identify prior DVT in patients undergoing total joint replacement. Between January 2014 and December 2014, 211 elective primary and revision hip and knee arthroplasty were identified from our prospective institutional database. All cases were performed by two adult reconstruction specialists. All primary total hip arthroplasties (THA) were non-cemented and all primary total knee arthroplasties (TKA) were cemented with similar implant and technique. Prior to July 2014, only patients with prior history of DVT or PE underwent pre-operative dopplers. From July 2014, all cases underwent routine pre-operative doppler screening. All patients with clinical symptoms of calf pain underwent post-operative dopplers. Patients were followed for a minimum of 3 month post-operatively. All emergency room (ER) visits for role out DVT were identified. No patient was lost to follow.Background
Methods
Accurate and reproducible cup positioning is one the most important technical factors that affects outcomes of total hip arthroplasty (THA). Although Lewinnek's safe zone is the most accepted range for anteversion and abduction angles socket orientation, the effect of fixed lumbosacral spine on pelvic tilt and obliquity is not yet established.
What is the change in anteversion and abduction angle from standing to sitting in a consecutive cohort of patients undergoing THA? What is the effect of fixed and flexible spinal deformities on acetabular cup orientation after THA? Between July 2011 and October 2011, 68 consecutive unilateral THAs were implanted in 68 patients with a mean age of 71 ± 6 years old. Radiographic evaluation included standing anteroposterior (AP) and lateral pelvic radiographs, and sitting lateral pelvic radiograph, measuring lumbosacral angle (LSA), sacral angle (SA), and sagittal pelvic tilt angle (SPTA). Computer generated 3D pelvis models were used to analyze the correlation between different pelvic tilts and acetabular cup orientation in abduction and anteversion.Introduction
Material and Methods
Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a lysine analog that has been shown to reduce intra-operative blood loss in total joint replacements. Effect of TXA in morbid obese patients has not been established. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of TXA on change of haematocrit (HCT) and packed RBC (PRBC) blood transfusion rate in our institution, especially in morbid obese patients. Between January 2014 and December 2014, 216 primary and revision hip and knee arthroplasty were identified from our prospective institutional database. All cases were performed by two adult reconstruction specialists. All primary total hip arthroplasties (THA) were non-cemented and all primary total knee arthroplasties (TKA) were cemented with similar implant and technique. Use of TXA in our institution was initiated on August of 2014. TXA was given intravenously (IV) as one gram prior to incision and one gram at the time of femoral preparation in THA or cementation in TKA, not exceeding 10mg/kg. In cases where IV TXA was contraindicated, topical was used. We analyzed pre- and post-operative hematocrit and transfusion rate. Criteria for transfusion was HCT < 25 or Hb < 9. 72 patients (33%) were considered morbid obese with body mass index (BMI) ≥ 35.Background
Methods
Wear and osteolysis are major contributors which limit the durability of total hip arthroplasty (THA) and ultimately cause it to fail. Efforts were made to decrease the wear by highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE) and using ceramic bearings. The purpose of this study is to analyze the five year performance of large sized (32mm and 36mm) ceramic and metal heads on X3 HXLPE (Stryker, Mahwah, NJ). From Jan 2006 to June 2008, 81 consecutive patients with minimum 5 year radiographic and clinical followup were identified from out institutional prospective database. 51 non-cemented THA (45 patients) had ceramic on HXLPE (CoX3) group and 30 hips (29 patients) had metal on HXLPE (MoX3) group. Mean age was 36 ± 8 years (36–76) and 50 ± 9 years (51–86) in ceramic and metal group, respectively. Wear rates were measured on an anteroposterior weight-bearing pelvis radiographs using the computer-assisted Roman software.Introduction
Materials and Method
Anterior knee pain (AKP) is a recognized cause of patient's dissatisfaction after total knee arthroplasty. Potential implant/technique related contributors to AKP are patellofemoral maltracking, trochlear geometry, femoral malrotation, patellar tilt and overstuffing. The primary aim of this prospective, matched pair study was to assess the safety, efficacy and performance of an anatomic patella and its effect on AKP in in a matched pair analysis. Between July 2012 and May 2013, 55 consecutive posterior stabilized cemented Attune TKAs (Depuy) were matched to the PFC Sigma group based on age, gender, and body mass index (BMI). All surgeries were performed via medial parapatellar approach with patellar resurfacing. Clinical and radiographic analysis was performed prospectively with minimum 6 month follow-up. Radiographic measurements included overall limb alignment, anterior offset, posterior offset, joint line, patellar thickness, patellar tilt and patellar displacement by two independent observers.Introduction
Material and Methods
