This study aims to assess the relationship between history of pseudotumour formation secondary to metal-on-metal (MoM) implants and periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) rate, as well as establish ESR and CRP thresholds that are suggestive of infection in these patients. We hypothesized that patients with a pseudotumour were at increased risk of infection. A total of 1,171 total hip arthroplasty (THA) patients with MoM articulations from August 2000 to March 2014 were retrospectively identified. Of those, 328 patients underwent metal artefact reduction sequence MRI and had minimum two years’ clinical follow-up, and met our inclusion criteria. Data collected included demographic details, surgical indication, laterality, implants used, history of pseudotumour, and their corresponding preoperative ESR (mm/hr) and CRP (mg/dl) levels. Multivariate logistic regression modelling was used to evaluate PJI and history of pseudotumour, and receiver operating characteristic curves were created to assess the diagnostic capabilities of ESR and CRP to determine the presence of infection in patients undergoing revision surgery.Aims
Methods
In the last decade, perioperative advancements have expanded the use of outpatient primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Despite this, there remains limited data on expedited discharge after revision TKA. This study compared 30-day readmissions and reoperations in patients undergoing revision TKA with a hospital stay greater or less than 24 hours. The authors hypothesized that expedited discharge in select patients would not be associated with increased 30-day readmissions and reoperations. Aseptic revision TKAs in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database were reviewed from 2013 to 2020. TKAs were stratified by length of hospital stay (greater or less than 24 hours). Patient demographic details, medical comorbidities, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade, operating time, components revised, 30-day readmissions, and reoperations were compared. Multivariate analysis evaluated predictors of discharge prior to 24 hours, 30-day readmission, and reoperation.Aims
Methods
Periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) are among the most devastating complications after joint arthroplasty. There is limited evidence on the efficacy of different antiseptic solutions on reducing biofilm burden. The purpose of the present study was to test the efficacy of different antiseptic solutions against clinically relevant microorganisms in biofilm. We conducted an in vitro study examining the efficacy of several antiseptic solutions against clinically relevant microorganisms. We tested antiseptic irrigants against nascent (four-hour) and mature (three-day) single-species biofilm created in vitro using a drip-flow reactor model.Aims
Methods
Use of molecular sequencing methods in periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) diagnosis and organism identification have gained popularity. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is a potentially powerful tool that is now commercially available. The purpose of this study was to compare the diagnostic accuracy of NGS, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), conventional culture, the Musculoskeletal Infection Society (MSIS) criteria, and the recently proposed criteria by Parvizi et al in the diagnosis of PJI. In this retrospective study, aspirates or tissue samples were collected in 30 revision and 86 primary arthroplasties for routine diagnostic investigation for PJI and sent to the laboratory for NGS and PCR. Concordance along with statistical differences between diagnostic studies were calculated.Aims
Methods
Survival after contemporary solid organ transplant (SOT) is increasing, and demand for total hip arthroplasty (THA) among SOT recipients is rising accordingly. The purpose of this study is to compare the perioperative outcomes and short-term implant- and patient-survivorship of contemporary THA following the most common types of SOT. Among SOT recipients, 119 primary THAs (92 patients, 39% female) were performed at a single institution from 2000–2020 and were retrospectively reviewed at a mean follow-up of 3.6yrs. Revisions, conversion to THA and multiple organs transplanted were excluded. The most common SOT was renal (39%), followed by lung (34%), liver (18%) and heart (8%). Demographics, peri-operative outcomes, 90-day re-admissions, re-operations and mortality were compared between SOT groups using chi-squared, Fisher's exact, Wilcoxon tests and Cox proportional hazard ratios.Introduction
Methods
Recent focus has shifted towards the utilization of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequencing modalities in periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) diagnosis and organism identification. The purpose of this study was to compare the diagnostic accuracy of next generation sequencing (NGS) to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) multiplex, culture, the Musculoskeletal Infection Society (MSIS) criteria, and the recently proposed criteria by Parvizi et al. [1] in the diagnosis of periprosthetic hip infections. In this retrospective study, aspirate or tissue samples were collected in 23 revision and 19 primary hip arthroplasties for routine diagnostic workup for PJI and sent to the laboratory for NGS and PCR multiplex. Concordance along with statistical differences between diagnostic studies were calculated using Chi-squared test for categorical data.Introduction
Methods
Alternative payment models for total hip arthroplasty (THA) were initiated by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to decrease overall healthcare cost by optimizing healthcare delivery. The associated shift of financial risk to participating institutions has been criticized to introduce patient selection in order to avoid potentially high cost of care. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement (CJR) model on patient selection, care delivery and hospital costs at a single care center. This is a retrospective review of THA patient from July 2015-December 2017 was performed. Patient were stratified by insurance type (Medicare and commercial insurance) and whether care was provided before or after implementation of the CJR bundle. Patient age, gender, and BMI, as well as Elixhauser comorbidities and ASA scores were analyzed. Delivery of care variables including surgery duration, discharge disposition, length of stay, and direct hospital costs were compared before and after CJR implementation.Introduction
Methods
Recent focus has queried whether of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequencing modalities of bacterial DNA found in periarticular fluid and tissues will improve in periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) diagnosis and organism identification diagnostic accuracy for periprosthetic joint infection The purpose of this study was to compare the diagnostic accuracy of next generation sequencing (NGS) to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) multiplex, and culture, the Musculoskeletal Infection Society (MSIS) criteria, and the recently proposed criteria by Parvizi et al. [1] in the diagnosis of periprosthetic knee infections. In this retrospective study, aspirate or tissue samples were collected in 70 revision and 58 primary knee arthroplasties for routine diagnostic workup for PJI and sent to the laboratory for NGS and PCR multiplex. Concordance along with statistical differences between diagnostic studies were calculated using Chi-squared test for categorical data.Introduction
Methods
Bundled reimbursement models for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) have resulted in an effort to decrease the cost of care. However, these models may incentivize bias in patient selection to avoid excess cost of care. We sought to determine the impact of the Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement (CJR) model at a single center. This is a retrospective review of primary TKA patients from July 2015-December 2017. Patients were stratified by whether or not their surgery was performed before or after implementation of the CJR bundle. Patient demographic data including age, sex, and BMI were collected in addition to Elixhauser comorbidities and ASA score. In-hospital outcomes were then examined including surgery duration, length of stay, discharge disposition, and direct cost of care.Introduction
Methods
The aim of this study was to characterize the factors leading to transfemoral amputation after total knee arthroplasty (TKA), as well as the rates of mortality and functional independence after this procedure in these patients. This was a multicentre retrospective review with a prospective telephone survey for the assessment of function. All patients with a TKA who subsequently required transfemoral amputation between January 2001 and December 2015 were included. Demographic information, medical comorbidities, and postoperative mortality data were collected. A 19-item survey was used for the assessment of function in surviving patients.Aims
Patients and Methods
The Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement (CJR) model for total hip arthroplasty (THA) involves a target reimbursement set by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Many patients exceed these targets, but predicting risk for incurring these excess costs remains challenging, and we hypothesized that select patient characteristics would adequately predict CJR cost overruns. Demographic factors and comorbidities were retrospectively reviewed in 863 primary unilateral CJR THAs performed between 2013 and 2017 at a single institution. A predictive model was built from 31 validated comorbidities and a base set of 5 patient factors (age, gender, BMI, ASA, marital status). A multivariable logistic regression model was refined to include only parameters predictive of exceeding the target reimbursement level. These were then assigned weights relative to the weakest parameter in the model.Introduction
Methods
Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) in high risk patients may result in numerous post-operative complications that may ultimately lead to above knee amputation (AKA). There is a paucity of literature regarding AKA in patients with prior TKA. We sought to characterize the factors leading to AKA, as well as patient functional and clinical outcomes post-operatively, with the hypothesis that minimal activity would be achieved. This is a multicenter retrospective review for patient identification, with prospective telephone survey completion for assessment of functional status. All patients from January 2001 to December 2015 with AKA and prior TKA at two academic centers were included for possible survey enrollment. Demographic information and medical comorbidities were collected, in addition to perioperative and post-operative mortality data. A 23-item survey was provided to all available patients and analyzed for patient functional status.Introduction
Methods
Hip fractures are a common pathology treated by Orthopaedic surgeons. The Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement (CJR) model utilizes risk stratification to set target prices for these patients undergoing hemiarthroplasty or total hip arthroplasty (THA). We hypothesized that sub-specialty arthroplasty surgeons would be able to treat patients at a lower cost compared to surgeons of other specialties during cases performed while on call. Patients with hemiarthroplasty or THA for hip fractures were retrospectively collected from June, 2013, to May, 2017, from a single tertiary referral center. Demographic information and outcomes based on length of stay (LOS), net payment, and target payment were collected. Patients were then stratified by surgeon subspecialty (arthroplasty trained vs. other specialty). Univariable and multivariable analysis for payment based on treating surgeon was then performed.Introduction
Methods
Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) has been identified as the cause of idiopathic osteoarthritis in young patients. FAI is the result of decreased femoral head/neck offset ratio due to bony deformities and causes hip pain and labral tears. Because the unique design and bone preserving nature of metal-onmetal hip resurfacing implants, it is extremely difficult to correct extensive bony deformities associated with FAI. Poor patient selection and lack of orrection/undercorrection of the underlying FAI deformity may lead to prosthetic impingement, extensive wear and metal ion release, component loosening, and subsequent implant failure. Hence, it is critical to define the patient population undergoing hip resurfacing. Because metal-on-metal hip resurfacing is performed more frequently in a younger population, we hypothesize that this patient population will have a larger proportion of femoroacetabular impingement than the general population and identification of this patient population is critical to the longevity of the implant. A retrospective review of 153 hips undergoing metal-on-metal hip resurfacing was performed. 52 hips were excluded based on the exclusion criteria of inadequate preoperative films (6 subjects), existing hardware/history of trauma (11 subjects), or if the resurfacing was performed due to avascular necrosis secondary to trauma, steroids, etc (35 subjects). The remaining 101 hips (76 male, 25 female) had an average age of 51.8 years. Preoperative x-rays were utilized to assess impingement according to previously published methods. An acetabular index (AI) of x ≤ 0°, center edge angle (CE angle) of x >
39°, a Sharp angle of x <
33°, and a present cross-over sign were considered pathologic findings for pincer impingement. Pathologic findings for cam impingement included the triangular index (TI; pathologic with R=r+2mm) and an α angle greater than 83° in men or 57° in women. Subjects were categorized as having impingement if they had one or more pathologic finding for either cam or pincer impingement and as having mixed impingement if they had one pathologic finding for both cam and pincer measurements. Prevalence rates were compared to published data for the general population. Fifty-five subjects had at least one pathologic finding for cam impingement (18, 7, and 30 subjects had pathologic measurements for α angle, TI, and both measurements, respectively); 24 subjects had at least one pathologic pincer measurement (4, 6, 14, and 4 pathologic measurements for AI, CE angle, cross-over sign, and Sharp angle, respectively; 3 subjects had multiple pincer findings) 13 subjects were classified as having mixed impingement (with α angle and cross-over sign as the most prevalent cam and pincer measurements). When compared to published data for the general population (M: 17%, F: 4%), we found a significantly larger proportion of cam impingement in both males (60.5%) and females (36%) in patients undergoing resurfacing at our institution (p<
0.001). There was also a significantly larger proportion of pincer impingement in our population (23.8%) than in the general population (10.7%) (p=0.01). There was no significant difference between our proportion of patients with mixed impingement (12.9%) and the general population (20.8%) (p=0.150). The patient population for metal-on-metal hip resurfacing shows a greater prevalance of FAI than the general population. Because the femoral head/neck junction is preserved with hip resurfacing, patients undergoing this type of procedure might be at increased risk of impingement. Hence, it is important to assess the degree of FAI preoperatively. This will allow proper patient selection and careful planning of surgical correction of the underlying FAI deformity to increase implant longevity.
Hip resurfacing arthroplasty is a technically challenging procedure, and orientation of the femoral component is critical to avoid implant failure. Recently, numerous articles have shown that the use of computer-assisted navigation decreases the learning curve for beginners in hip resurfacing and to improve the surgeon’s ability to produce consistent results. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the learning curve of computer-assisted navigation in the hands of an experienced hip resurfacing surgeon. This retrospective study was compromised of 100 metal-on-metal total hip resurfacings in 94 patients. The resurfacings were performed by a single fellowship-trained surgeon, with hip resurfacing experience of more than 250 hip resurfacings without navigation. Data collected included gender, age at the time of surgery, BMI, operative time, postoperative complications, and digital planning. Standard nteroposterior (AP) radiographs taken in the preoperative and postoperative period were evaluated to measure neck-shaft and stem-shaft angles, respectively. There were 24 females and 70 males, who had a mean age of 49 years (range, 19 to 68 years). The 100 hips were arranged chronologically by operative date and broken down into four groups of 25. Data also was gathered on 25 non-navigated hip resurfacings to serve as a matching group. There were no significant differences found between the four groups and matching groups with respect to patient variables, including age, BMI, or gender. There were also no significant differences found among the groups with respect to OR time (p = 0.565). The mean OR time for all 100 navigated hips was 101 minutes, compared to a mean of 104 minutes for the matching group (p = 0.924). Using linear regression analysis, the only variable that was found to influence OR time was BMI (p <
0.001). The mean actual stem-shaft angle (SSA) of the groups became more valgus over time, with group 1 having an SSA of 139; group 2, an SSA of 140; group 3, an SSA of 142; and group 4, an SSA of 144. Compared to the preoperative neck-shaft angle, the postoperative stem-shaft angle for 89% of the femoral components was inserted in a valgus position, with 96% of those in group 4 being inserted in a valgus position. The matching non-navigated group had only 80% of the cases with the stem-shaft angle inserted in valgus. The data presented here demonstrates that providing an imageless computer-assisted navigation system to an experienced hip resurfacing surgeon offered the benefits of navigated surgery including increased accuracy, with no learning curve effect. Computer-assisted navigation can help the learning curve of a technically demanding procedure in inexperienced surgeons, as described by the literature, while placing real-time feedback and consistent repeatability into the hands of an experienced surgeon.
Osteonecrosis of the knee comprises two separate disorders, primary spontaneous osteonecrosis which is often a self-limiting condition and secondary osteonecrosis which is associated with risk factors and a poor prognosis. In a series of 61 knees (38 patients) we analysed secondary osteonecrosis of the knee treated by a new technique using multiple small percutaneous 3 mm drillings. Total knee replacement was avoided in 59 knees (97%) at a mean follow-up of 3 years (2 to 4). Of the 61 knees, 56 (92%) had a successful clinical outcome, defined as a Knee Society score greater than 80 points. The procedure was successful in all 24 knees with small lesions compared with 32 of 37 knees (86%) with large lesions. All the procedures were performed as day cases and there were no complications. This technique appears to have a low morbidity, relieves symptoms and delays more invasive surgery.