Aims. To determine the value of scoliosis surgery, it is necessary to evaluate outcomes in domains that matter to patients. Since randomized trials on adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) are scarce, prospective cohort studies with comparable outcome measures are important. To enhance comparison, a core set of patient-related outcome measures is available. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of AIS fusion surgery at two-year follow-up using the core outcomes set. Methods. AIS patients were systematically enrolled in an institutional registry. In all, 144 AIS patients aged ≤ 25 years undergoing primary surgery (median age 15 years (interquartile range 14 to 17) were included. Patient-reported (condition-specific and health-related quality of life (QoL); functional status; back and leg pain intensity) and clinician-reported outcomes (complications, revision surgery) were recorded. Changes in patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were analyzed using Friedman’s analysis of variance. Clinical relevancy was determined using minimally important changes (Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)-22r), cut-off values for relevant effect on functioning (pain scores) and a patient-acceptable symptom state (PASS; Oswestry Disability Index). Results. At baseline, 65 out of 144 patients (45%) reported numerical rating scale (NRS) back pain scores > 5. All PROMs significantly improved at two-year follow-up. Mean improvements in SRS-22r function (+ 1.2 (SD 0.6)), pain (+ 0.6 (SD 0.8)), and self-image (+ 1.1 (SD 0.7)) domain scores, and the SRS-22r total score (+ 0.5 (SD 0.5)), were clinically relevant. At two-year follow-up, 14 out of 144 patients (10%) reported NRS back pain > 5. Surgical site infections did not occur. Only one patient (0.7%) underwent revision surgery. Conclusion. Relevant improvement in functioning, condition-specific and health-related QoL, self-image, and a relevant decrease in pain is shown at two-year follow-up after fusion surgery for AIS, with few adverse events. Contrary to the general perception that AIS is a largely asymptomatic condition, nearly half of patients report significant preoperative back pain, which reduced to 10% at two-year follow-up. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(2):265–273

We aimed to determine quality of life and burnout among Dutch orthopaedic trainees following a modern orthopaedic curriculum, with strict compliance to a 48-hour working week. We also evaluated the effect of the clinical climate of learning on their emotional well-being. We assessed burnout, quality of life and the clinical climate of learning in 105 orthopaedic trainees using the Maslach Burnout Inventory, linear analogue scale self-assessments, and Dutch Residency Educational Climate Test (D-RECT), respectively. A total of 19 trainees (18%) had poor quality of life and 49 (47%) were dissatisfied with the balance between their personal and professional life. Some symptoms of burnout were found in 29 trainees (28%). Higher D-RECT scores (indicating a better climate of learning) were associated with a better quality of life (r = 0.31, p = 0.001), more work-life balance satisfaction (r = 0.31, p = 0.002), fewer symptoms of emotional exhaustion (r = -0.21, p = 0.028) and depersonalisation (r = -0,28, p = 0.04). A reduced quality of life with evidence of burnout were still seen in a significant proportion of orthopaedic trainees despite following a modern curriculum with strict compliance to a 48-hour working week. It is vital that further work is undertaken to improve the quality of life and reduce burnout in this cohort. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:1133–8

Aims. This study investigated the influence of body mass index (BMI) on patients’ function and quality of life ten years after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Patients and Methods. A total of 126 patients who underwent unilateral TKA in 2006 were prospectively included in this retrospective study. They were categorized into two groups based on BMI: < 30 kg/m. 2. (control) and ≥ 30 kg/m. 2. (obese). Functional outcome was assessed using the Knee Society Function Score (KSFS), Knee Society Knee Score (KSKS), and Oxford Knee Score (OKS). Quality of life was assessed using the Physical (PCS) and Mental Component Scores (MCS) of the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey. Results. Patients in the obese group underwent TKA at a younger age (mean, 63.0 years, . sd. 8.0) compared with the control group (mean, 65.6 years, . sd. 7.6; p = 0.03). Preoperatively, both groups had comparable functional and quality-of-life scores. Ten years postoperatively, the control group had significantly higher OKS and MCS compared with the obese group (OKS, mean 18 (. sd. 5) vs mean 22 (. sd. 10), p = 0.03; MCS, mean 56 (. sd. 10) vs mean 50 (. sd. 11), p = 0.01). After applying multiple linear regression with the various outcomes scores as dependent variables and age, gender, and Charlson Comorbidity Index as independent variables, there was a clear association between obesity and poorer outcome in KSFS, OKS, and MCS at ten years postoperatively (p < 0.01 in both KSFS and OKS, and p = 0.03 in MCS). Both groups had a high satisfaction rate (97.8% in the control groupvs 87.9% in the obese group, p = 0.11) and fulfillment of expectations at ten years (98.9% in the control group vs 100% in the obese group, p = 0.32). Conclusion. Although both obese and non-obese patients have significant improvements in function and quality of life postoperatively, obese patients tend to have smaller improvements in the OKS and MCS ten years postoperatively. It is important to counsel patients on the importance of weight management to achieve a more sustained outcome after TKA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:579–83

Aims. The aims of the study were to analyze differences in surgical and oncological outcomes, as well as quality of life (QoL) and function in patients with ankle sarcomas undergoing three forms of surgical treatment, minor or major limb salvage surgery (LSS), or amputation. Methods. A total of 69 patients with ankle sarcomas, treated between 1981 and 2017 at two tumour centres, were retrospectively reviewed (mean age at surgery: 46.3 years (SD 22.0); 31 females (45%)). Among these 69 patients 25 were analyzed prospectively (mean age at latest follow-up: 61.2 years (SD 20.7); 11 females (44%)), and assessed for mobility using the Prosthetic Limb Users Survey of Mobility (PLUS-M; for amputees only), the Toronto Extremity Salvage Score (TESS), and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Activity Score. Individual QoL was evaluated in these 25 patients using the five-level EuroQol five-dimension (EQ-5D-5L) and Fragebogen zur Lebenszufriedenheit/Questions on Life Satisfaction (FLZ). Results. Of the total number of patients in the study, 22 (32%) underwent minor LSS and 22 (32%) underwent major LSS; 25 underwent primary amputation (36%). Complications developed in 26 (38%) patients, and were more common in those with major or minor LSS in comparison to amputation (59% vs 36% vs 20%; p = 0.022). A time-dependent trend towards higher complication risk following any LSS was present (relative risk: 0.204; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.026 to 1.614; p = 0.095). In the prospective cohort, mean TESS was higher following minor LSS in comparison to amputation (91.0 vs 67.3; p = 0.006), while there was no statistically significant difference between major LSS and amputation (81.6 vs 67.3; p = 0.099). There was no difference in mean UCLA (p = 0.334) between the three groups (p = 0.334). None of the items in FLZ or EQ-5D-5L were different between the three groups (all p > 0.05), except for FLZ item “self-relation”, being lower in amputees. Conclusion. Complications are common following LSS for ankle sarcomas. QoL is comparable between patients with LSS or amputation, despite better mobility scores for patients following minor LSS. We conclude that these results allow a decision for amputation to be made more easily in patients particularly where the principles of oncological surgery would otherwise be at risk. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(3):553–561

Aims. The primary aim was to assess change in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of patients as they waited from six to 12 months for a total hip (THA) or total or partial knee arthroplasty (KA). Secondary aims were to assess change in joint-specific function, mental health, quality of sleep, number living in a state worse than death (WTD), wellbeing, and patient satisfaction with their healthcare. Methods. This prospective study included 142 patients awaiting a THA (mean age 66.7 years (SD 11.4); 71 female) and 214 patients awaiting KA (mean age 69.7 years (SD 8.7); 117 female). Patients completed questionnaires (EuroQol five-dimension health questionnaire (EQ-5D), Oxford Hip and Knee Scores (OHS/OKS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Score (HADS), University of California, Los Angeles Activity Scale, wellbeing assessment, and satisfaction with their healthcare) at six and 12 months while awaiting surgery. Results. There was a clinical and statistically significant deterioration in the EQ-5D while awaiting THA (mean change 0.071 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.018 to 0.124); p = 0.009) and KA (mean change 0.069 (95% CI 0.032 to 0.106); p < 0.001). For patients awaiting a THA, there were deteriorations in OHS (p = 0.003), PSQI (p = 0.008), both HADS depression (p = 0.001) and anxiety (p = 0.002), and an increased prevalence in those in a state WTD (p = 0.010). For those awaiting KA, there were significant deteriorations in OKS (p < 0.001), UCLA (p = 0.001), and HADS depression (p < 0.001) and anxiety (p < 0.001). There were significant decreases in wellbeing (satisfaction with life, feeling life to be worthwhile, and happiness) and increases in anxiety for those awaiting THA or KA (p < 0.001). Those awaiting THA (odds ratio (OR) 0.52 (95% CI 0.31 to 0.89); p = 0.016) and KA (OR 0.46 (95% CI 0.31 to 0.71); p < 0.001) had a significant decrease in satisfaction with their healthcare. Conclusion. As patients waited from six to 12 months for THA or KA, they experienced a clinically significant deterioration in HRQoL. There were also deteriorations in joint-specific function, mental health, wellbeing, and patient satisfaction with healthcare. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(2):166–173

There is little published information on the health impact of frozen shoulder. The purpose of this study was to assess the functional and health-related quality of life outcomes following arthroscopic capsular release (ACR) for contracture of the shoulder. Between January 2010 and January 2012 all patients who had failed non-operative treatment including anti-inflammatory medication, physiotherapy and glenohumeral joint injections for contracture of the shoulder and who subsequently underwent an ACR were enrolled in the study. A total of 100 patients were eligible; 68 underwent ACR alone and 32 had ACR with a subacromial decompression (ASD). ACR resulted in a highly significant improvement in the range of movement and functional outcome, as measured by the Oxford shoulder score and EuroQol EQ-5D index. The mean cost of a quality-adjusted life year (QALY) for an ACR and ACR with an ASD was £2563 and £3189, respectively. . ACR is thus a cost-effective procedure that can restore relatively normal function and health-related quality of life in most patients with a contracture of the shoulder within six months after surgery; and the beneficial effects are not related to the duration of the presenting symptoms. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:942–6

Aims. The primary aim of this study was to assess whether patients waiting six months or more for a total hip (THA) or knee (KA) arthroplasty had a deterioration in their health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Secondary aims were to assess changes in frailty and the number of patients living in a state considered to be worse than death (WTD), and factors associated with changes in HRQoL and frailty. Methods. This cross-sectional study included 326 patients, 150 males (46.0%) and 176 females (54.0%), with a mean age of 68.6 years (SD 9.8) who were randomly selected from waiting lists at four centres and had been waiting for six months or more (median 13 months, interquartile range 10 to 21) for a primary THA (n = 161) or KA (n = 165). The EuroQol five-dimension questionnaire (EQ-5D) and visual analogue scores (EQ-VAS), Rockwood Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS), and 36-Item Short Form Survey subjective change in HRQoL were assessed at the time and recalled for six months earlier. A state that was WTD was defined as an EQ-5D of less than zero. Results. There were significant deteriorations in the EQ-5D (mean 0.175, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.145 to 0.204; p < 0.001), EQ-VAS (mean 8.6, 95% CI 7.0 to 10.4; < 0.001), and CFS (from 3 “managing well” to 4 “vulnerable”; p < 0.001), and a significant increase in the number of those in a state that was WTD (n = 48; p < 0.001) during the previous six months for the whole cohort. A total of 110 patients (33.7%) stated that their health was much worse and 107 (32.8%) felt it was somewhat worse compared with six months previously. A significantly greater EQ-5D (-0.14, 95% CI 0.08 to 0.28; p = 0.038) and a state that was not WTD (-0.14, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.26; p = 0.031) were associated with a deterioration in the EQ-5D. THA (0.21, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.34; p = 0.002) or a lower (better) CFS (0.14, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.20; p < 0.001) were independently significantly associated with a deterioration in the CFS. Conclusion. Patients waiting more than six months for THA or KA had a significant deterioration in their HRQoL and increased frailty, with two-thirds of patients feeling that their health had worsened. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(11):1215–1224

Aims. There is a lack of high-quality research investigating outcomes of Ponseti-treated idiopathic clubfeet and correlation with relapse. This study assessed clinical and quality of life (QoL) outcomes using a standardized core outcome set (COS), comparing children with and without relapse. Methods. A total of 11 international centres participated in this institutional review board-approved observational study. Data including demographics, information regarding presentation, treatment, and details of subsequent relapse and management were collected between 1 June 2022 and 30 June 2023 from consecutive clinic patients who had a minimum five-year follow-up. The clubfoot COS incorporating 31 parameters was used. A regression model assessed relationships between baseline variables and outcomes (clinical/QoL). Results. Overall, 293 patients (432 feet) with a median age of 89 months (interquartile range 72 to 113) were included. The relapse rate was 37%, with repeated relapse in 14%. Treatment considered a standard part of the Ponseti journey (recasting, repeat tenotomy, and tibialis anterior tendon transfer) was performed in 35% of cases, with soft-tissue release and osteotomies in 5% and 2% of cases, respectively. Predictors of relapse included duration of follow-up, higher initial Pirani score, and poor Evertor muscle activity. Relapse was associated with poorer outcomes. Conclusion. This is the first multicentre study using a standardized COS following clubfoot treatment. It distinguishes patients with and without relapse in terms of clinical outcomes and QoL, with poorer outcomes in the relapse group. This tool allows comparison of treatment methods and outcomes, facilitates information sharing, and sets family expectations. Predictors of relapse encourage us to create appropriate treatment pathways to reduce relapse and improve outcome. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(7):735–743

Aims. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of multimorbidity on improvements in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) following total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Patients and Methods. Using data from a regional joint registry for 14 573 patients, HRQoL was measured prior and one year following surgery using the Oxford Hip Score (OHS) and Oxford Knee Score (OKS), and the 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey Physical and Mental Component Summary scores (PCS and MCS, respectively). Multimorbidity was defined as the concurrence of two or more self-reported chronic conditions. A linear mixed-effects model was used to test the effects of multimorbidity and the number of chronic conditions on improvements in HRQoL. Results. Almost two-thirds of patients had multimorbidity, which adversely effected improvements in HRQoL. For THA, mean improvements in HRQoL scores were reduced by 2.21 points in OHS, 1.62 in PCS, and 4.14 in MCS; for TKA, the mean improvements were reduced by 1.71 points in OKS, 1.92 in PCS, and 3.55 in MCS (all p < 0.0001). An increase in the number of chronic conditions was associated with increasing reductions in HRQoL improvements. Conclusion. Multimorbidity adversely effects improvements in HRQoL following THA and TKA. Our findings are relevant to healthcare providers focused on the management of patients with chronic conditions and for administrators reporting and monitoring the outcomes of THA and TKA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:1168–74

Aims. This study investigated the influence of body mass index (BMI) on the post-operative fall in the level of haemoglobin (Hb), length of hospital stay (LOS), 30-day re-admission rate, functional outcome and quality of life, two years after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Patients and Methods. A total of 7733 patients who underwent unilateral primary TKA between 2001 and 2010 were included. The mean age was 67 years (30 to 90). There were 1421 males and 6312 females. The patients were categorised into three groups: BMI < 25.0 kg/m. 2. (normal); BMI between 25.0 and 39.9 kg/m. 2. (obese); and BMI ≥ 40.0 kg/m. 2. (morbidly obese). Results. Compared with the normal and obese groups, the mean LOS was longer by one day (95% confidence interval (CI) 0 to 2) in the morbidly obese group (p = 0.003 and p = 0.001 respectively). The 30-day re-admisison rate was also higher in the morbidly obese group compared to the obese group (OR 2.323, 95% CI 1.101 to 4.900, p = 0.024); and showed a higher trend compared to the normal group (OR 1.850, 95% CI 0.893 to 3.831, p = 0.100). However, the morbidly obese group had a smaller drop in post-operative Hb level by a mean of 0.5 g/dl (0.3 to 0.6) and 0.3 g/dl (0.1 to 0.5), when compared with the normal and obese groups respectively (both p < 0.001). Furthermore, the mean improvement in Oxford Knee Score (OKS) and Knee Society Knee Score (KSKS) at two years follow-up was three points (two to four) and five points (two to seven) more in the morbidly obese group than in the normal group (both p < 0.001). The mean improvement in Knee Society Function Score, and Physical and Mental Component Scores of Short Form-36 were comparable between the three BMI groups (p = 0.736, p = 0.739 and p = 0.731 respectively). The ten-year rate of survival was 98.8% (98.0 to 99.3), 98.9% (98.5 to 99.2) and 98.0% (95.8 to 100), for the normal, obese and morbidly obese groups, respectively (p = 0.703). Conclusion. Although morbidly obese patients have a longer LOS and higher 30-day re-admission rate after TKA, they have a smaller drop in post-operative Hb level and larger improvement in OKS and KSKS at two years follow-up. The ten-year rate of survival of TKA was also comparable with those with a normal BMI. . Take home message: Morbidly obese patients should not be excluded from the benefits of TKA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:780–5

Aims

The aim of the study was to compare measures of the quality of life (QOL) after resection of a chordoma of the mobile spine with the national averages in the United States and to assess which factors influenced the QOL, symptoms of anxiety and depression, and coping with pain post-operatively in these patients.

We investigated the extent to which improved balance relative to pain relief correlates with the success of total knee replacement (TKR). A total of 81 patients were recruited to the study: 16 men (19.8%) and 65 women (80.2%). Of these, 62 patients (10 men, 52 women) with a mean age of 73 (57 to 83) underwent static and dynamic assessment of balance pre-operatively and one year post-operatively. The parameters of balance were quantified using commercially available and validated equipment. Motor function and self-reported outcome were also assessed.

There was a significant improvement in dynamic balance (p < 0.001) one year after TKR, and better balance correlated with improved mobility, functional balance and increased health-related quality of life. As it seems that balance, and not only pain relief, influences the success of TKR, balance skills should be better addressed during the post-operative rehabilitation of patients who undergo TKR.

Aims. We aimed to evaluate the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in children with supracondylar humeral fractures (SCHFs), who were treated following the recommendations of the Paediatric Comprehensive AO Classification, and to assess if HRQoL was associated with AO fracture classification, or fixation with a lateral external fixator compared with closed reduction and percutaneous pinning (CRPP). Methods. We were able to follow-up on 775 patients (395 girls, 380 boys) who sustained a SCHF from 2004 to 2017. Patients completed questionnaires including the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (QuickDASH; primary outcome), and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL). Results. An AO type I SCHF was most frequent (327 children; type II: 143; type III: 150; type IV: 155 children). All children with type I fractures were treated nonoperatively. Two children with a type II fracture, 136 with a type III fracture, and 141 children with a type IV fracture underwent CRPP. In the remaining 27 children with type III or IV fractures, a lateral external fixator was necessary for closed reduction. There were no open reductions. After a mean follow-up of 6.3 years (SD 3.7), patients with a type I fracture had a mean QuickDASH of 2.0 (SD 5.2), at a scale of 0 to 100, with lower values representing better HRQoL (type II: 2.8 (SD 10.7); type III: 3.3 (SD 8.0); type IV: 1.8 (SD 4.6)). The mean function score of the PedsQL ranged from 97.4 (SD 8.0) for type I to 96.1 (SD 9.1) for type III fractures, at a scale of 0 to 100, with higher values representing better HRQoL. Conclusion. In this cohort of 775 patients in whom nonoperative treatment was chosen for AO type I and II fractures and CRPP or a lateral external fixator was used in AO type III and IV fractures, there was equally excellent mid- and long-term HRQoL when assessed by the QuickDASH and PedsQL. These results indicate that the treatment protocol followed in this study is unambiguous, avoids open reductions, and is associated with excellent treatment outcomes. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(6):755–765

The benefit of arthroscopy of the hip in the treatment of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) in terms of quality of life (QoL) has not been reported. We prospectively collected data on 612 patients (257 women (42%) and 355 men (58%)) with a mean age at the time of surgery of 36.7 years (14 to 75) who underwent arthroscopy of the hip for FAI under the care of a single surgeon. The minimum follow-up was one year (mean 3.2 years (1 to 7)). The responses to the modified Harris hip score were translated using the Rosser Index Matrix in order to provide a QoL score. The mean QoL score increased from 0.946 (-1.486 to 0.995) to 0.974 (0.7 to 1) at one year after surgery (p < 0.001). The mean QoL score in men was significantly higher than in women, both before and one year after surgery (both p < 0.001). However, the mean change in the QoL score was not statistically different between men and women (0.02 (-0.21 to 0.27) and 0.04 (-0.16 to 0.87), respectively; p = 0.12). Linear regression analysis revealed that the significant predictors of a change in QoL score were pre-operative QoL score (p < 0.001) and gender (p = 0.04). The lower the pre-operative score, the higher the gain in QoL post-operatively (ρ = -0.66; p < 0.001). One year after surgery the QoL scores in the 612 patients had improved in 469 (76.6%), remained unchanged in 88 (14.4%) and had deteriorated in 55 (9.0%).

Aims. This study evaluates the quality of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) reported in childhood fracture trials and recommends outcome measures to assess and report physical function, functional capacity, and quality of life using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) standards. Methods. A Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)-compliant systematic review of OVID Medline, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL was performed to identify all PROMs reported in trials. A search of OVID Medline, Embase, and PsycINFO was performed to identify all PROMs with validation studies in childhood fractures. Development studies were identified through hand-searching. Data extraction was undertaken by two reviewers. Study quality and risk of bias was evaluated by COSMIN guidelines and recorded on standardized checklists. Results. Searches yielded 13,672 studies, which were screened to identify 124 trials and two validation studies. Review of the 124 trials identified 16 reported PROMs, of which two had validation studies. The development papers were retrieved for all PROMs. The quality of the original development studies was adequate for Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Mobility and Upper Extremity and doubtful for the EuroQol Five Dimension Youth questionnaire (EQ-5D-Y). All other PROMs were found to have inadequate development studies. No content validity studies were identified. Reviewer-rated content validity was acceptable for six PROMs: Activity Scale for Kids (ASK), Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire, PROMIS Upper Extremity, PROMIS Mobility, EQ-5D-Y, and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL4.0). The Modified Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire was shown to have indeterminate reliability and convergence validity in one study and PROMIS Upper Extremity had insufficient convergence validity in one study. Conclusion. There is insufficient evidence to recommend strongly the use of any single PROM to assess and report physical function or quality of life following childhood fractures. There is a need to conduct validation studies for PROMs. In the absence of these studies, we cautiously recommend the use of the PROMIS or ASK-P for physical function and the PedsQL4.0 or EQ-5D-Y for quality of life. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(12):1599–1607

Aims. Only a few studies have investigated the long-term health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with an idiopathic scoliosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the overall HRQoL and employment status of patients with an idiopathic scoliosis 40 years after diagnosis, to compare it with that of the normal population, and to identify possible predictors for a better long-term HRQoL. Methods. We reviewed the full medical records and radiological reports of patients referred to our hospital with a scoliosis of childhood between April 1972 and April 1982. Of 129 eligible patients with a juvenile or adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, 91 took part in the study (71%). They were evaluated with full-spine radiographs and HRQoL questionnaires and compared with normative data. We compared the HRQoL between observation (n = 27), bracing (n = 46), and surgical treatment (n = 18), and between thoracic and thoracolumbar/lumbar (TL/L) curves. Results. The mean time to follow-up was 40.8 years (SD 2.6) and the mean age of patients was 54.0 years (SD 2.7). Of the 91 patients, 86 were female (95%) and 51 had a main thoracic curve (53%). We found a significantly lower HRQoL measured on all the Scoliosis Research Society 22r instrument (SRS-22r) subdomains (p < 0.001) with the exception of mental health, than in an age-matched normal population. Incapacity to work was more prevalent in scoliosis patients (21%) than in the normal population (11%). The median SRS-22r subscore was 4.0 (interquartile range (IQR) 3.3 to 4.4) for TL/L curves and 4.1 (IQR 3.8 to 4.4) for thoracic curves (p = 0.300). We found a significantly lower self-image score for braced (median 3.6 (IQR 3.0 to 4.0)) and surgically treated patients (median 3.6 (IQR 3.2 to 4.3)) than for those treated by observation (median 4.0 (IQR 4.1 to 4.8); p = 0.010), but no statistically significant differences were found for the remaining subdomains. Conclusion. In this long-term follow-up study, we found a significantly decreased HRQoL and capacity to work in patients with an idiopathic scoliosis 40 years after diagnosis. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(2):166–171

A prospective cohort of 222 patients who underwent revision hip replacement between April 2001 and March 2004 was evaluated to determine predictors of function, pain and activity level between one and two years post-operatively, and to define quality of life outcomes using validated patient reported outcome tools. Predictive models were developed and proportional odds regression analyses were performed to identify factors that predict quality of life outcomes at one and two years post-operatively. The dependent outcome variables were the Western Ontario and McMaster Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) function and pain scores, and University of California Los Angeles activity scores. The independent variables included patient demographics, operative factors, and objective quality of life parameters, including pre-operative WOMAC, and the Short Form-12 mental component score. There was a significant improvement (t-test, p < 0.001) in all patient quality of life scores. In the predictive model, factors predictive of improved function (original regression analyses, p < 0.05) included a higher pre-operative WOMAC function score (p < 0.001), age between 60 and 70 years (p < 0.037), male gender (p = 0.017), lower Charnley class (p < 0.001) and aseptic loosening being the indication for revision (p < 0.003). Using the WOMAC pain score as an outcome variable, factors predictive of improvement included the pre-operative WOMAC function score (p = 0.001), age between 60 and 70 years (p = 0.004), male gender (p = 0.005), lower Charnley class (p = 0.001) and no previous revision procedure (p = 0.023). The pre-operative WOMAC function score (p = 0.001), the indication for the operation (p = 0.007), and the operating surgeon (p = 0.008) were significant predictors of the activity assessment at follow-up. Predictors of quality of life outcomes after revision hip replacement were established. Although some patient-specific and surgery-specific variables were important, age, gender, Charnley class and pre-operative WOMAC function score had the most robust associations with outcome

Aims. This study investigates whether primary knee arthroplasty (KA) restores health-related quality of life (HRQoL) to levels expected in the general population. Methods. This retrospective case-control study compared HRQoL data from two sources: patients undergoing primary KA in a university-teaching hospital (2013 to 2019), and the Health Survey for England (HSE; 2010 to 2012). Patient-level data from the HSE were used to represent the general population. Propensity score matching was used to balance covariates and facilitate group comparisons. A propensity score was estimated using logistic regression based upon the covariates sex, age, and BMI. Two matched cohorts with 3,029 patients each were obtained for the adjusted analyses (median age 70.3 (interquartile range (IQR) 64 to 77); number of female patients 3,233 (53.4%); median BMI 29.7 kg/m. 2. (IQR 26.5 to 33.7)). HRQoL was measured using the three-level version of the EuroQol five-dimension questionnaire (EQ-5D-3L), and summarized using the Index and EuroQol visual analogue scale (EQ-VAS) scores. Results. Patients awaiting KA had significantly lower EQ-5D-3L Index scores than the general population (median 0.620 (IQR 0.16 to 0.69) vs median 0.796 (IQR 0.69 to 1.00); p < 0.001). By one year postoperatively, the median EQ-5D-3L Index score improved significantly in the KA cohort (mean change 0.32 (SD 0.33); p < 0.001), and demonstrated no clinically relevant differences when compared to the general population (median 0.796 (IQR 0.69 to 1.00) vs median 0.796 (IQR 0.69 to 1.00)). Compared to the general population cohort, the postoperative EQ-VAS was significantly higher in the KA cohort (p < 0.001). Subgroup comparisons demonstrated that older age groups had statistically better EQ-VAS scores than matched peers in the general population. Conclusion. Patients awaiting KA for osteoarthritis had significantly poorer HRQoL than the general population. However, within one year of surgery, primary KA restored HRQoL to levels expected for the patient’s age-, BMI-, and sex-matched peers. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(4):365–372

We have evaluated the quality of life and functional outcome after unilateral primary total hip replacement (THR). Between 5 January 1998 and 31 July 2000, we recruited a consecutive series of 627 patients undergoing this procedure and investigated them prospectively. Each was assessed before operation and reviewed after six months, 18 months, three years and five years. The Short Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36) and Harris Hip scores were evaluated at each appointment. All dimensions of the SF-36 except for mental health and general health perception, improved significantly after operation and this was maintained throughout the follow-up. The greatest improvement was seen at the six-month assessment. On average, women reported lower SF-36 scores pre-operatively, but the gender difference did not continue post-operatively. The Harris Hip scores improved significantly after operation, reaching a plateau after 18 months. The improved quality of life was sustained five years after THR

Aims. While patients with psychological distress have poorer short-term outcomes after total knee arthroplasty (TKA), their longer-term function is unknown. We aimed to 1) assess the influence of preoperative mental health status on long-term functional outcomes, quality of life, and patient satisfaction; and 2) analyze the change in mental health after TKA, in a cohort of patients with no history of mental health disorder, with a minimum of ten years’ follow-up. Methods. Prospectively collected data of 122 patients undergoing primary unilateral TKA in 2006 were reviewed. Patients were assessed pre- and postoperatively at two and ten years using the Knee Society Knee Score (KSKS) and Function Score (KSFS); Oxford Knee Score (OKS); and the Mental (MCS) and Physical Component Summary (PCS) which were derived from the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey questionnaire (SF-36). Patients were stratified into those with psychological distress (MCS < 50, n = 51) and those without (MCS ≥ 50, n = 71). Multiple regression was used to control for age, sex, BMI, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), and baseline scores. The rate of expectation fulfilment and satisfaction was compared between patients with low and high MCS. Results. There was no difference in the mean KSKS, KSFS, OKS, and SF-36 PCS at two years or ten years after TKA. Equal proportions of patients in each group attained the minimal clinically important difference for each score. Psychologically distressed patients had a comparable rate of satisfaction (91.8% (47/51) vs 97.1% (69/71); p = 0.193) and fulfilment of expectations (89.8% vs 97.1%; p = 0.094). The proportion of distressed patients declined from 41.8% preoperatively to 29.8% at final follow-up (p = 0.021), and their mean SF-36 MCS improved by 10.4 points (p < 0.001). Conclusion. Patients with poor mental health undergoing TKA may experience long-term improvements in function and quality of life that are comparable to those experienced by their non-distressed counterparts. These patients also achieved a similar rate of satisfaction and expectation fulfilment. Undergoing TKA was associated with improvements in mental health in distressed patients, although this effect may be due to residual confounding. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(7):845–851

In a prospective trial we studied 176 consecutive patients having a primary total hip arthroplasty to compare the quality of life before and after operation in non-obese and obese groups. We used a modified Harris hip score and the Rosser Index Matrix to generate these scores, and found that the median preoperative quality of life score for both groups was similar. During review, both groups showed a corresponding marked improvement in quality of life scores at one and three years. There was no statistically significant difference in the improvement in scores between the non-obese and obese groups. It appears that relative body-weight on its own does not influence the benefit derived from primary total hip arthroplasty

We set out to determine the impact of surgery on quality of life and function in patients who had undergone surgery for symptomatic peri-acetabular metastases. From a prospective database we retrospectively reviewed 46 consecutive patients who had been treated operatively between June 2003 and June 2009. The mean age of the patients was 56.4 years (20 to 73) and the mean post-operative follow-up was 19.2 months (4 to 70). Functional evaluation and quality-of-life assessments were performed. At the most recent follow-up, 26 patients (56.5%) were alive. Their median survival time was 25.0 months. Ten major postoperative complications had occurred in eight patients (17.4%). The mean post-operative Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score (MSTS 93) was 56.3% (6.7% to 90.0%). Improvement in the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status was seen in 32 patients (69.6%). On the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer core quality-of-life questionnaire (QLQ-C30) measure of global health status there was a statistically significant improvement from the patients’ pre-operative status (42.8 (. sd. 13.7)) to that found at the latest follow-up (58.0 (. sd. 12.5)) (p = 0.001). The only statistically significant change in the nine symptom domains of the QLQ-C30 was a reduction in the mean level of pain (from 59.1 to 29.5 (out of 100)) (p < 0.001). Surgery for patients with peri-acetabular metastases reduces pain and improves their quality of life, and has a low rate of surgical complications

Aims. The aim of this study is to test the hypothesis that three grades of sagittal compensation for standing posture (normal, compensated, and decompensated) correlate with health-related quality of life measurements (HRQOL). Methods. A total of 50 healthy volunteers (normal), 100 patients with single-level lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis (LDS), and 70 patients with adult to elderly spinal deformity (deformity) were enrolled. Following collection of demographic data and HRQOL measured by the Scoliosis Research Society-22r (SRS-22r), radiological measurement by the biplanar slot-scanning full body stereoradiography (EOS) system was performed simultaneously with force-plate measurements to obtain whole body sagittal alignment parameters. These parameters included the offset between the centre of the acoustic meatus and the gravity line (CAM-GL), saggital vertical axis (SVA), T1 pelvic angle (TPA), McGregor slope, C2-7 lordosis, thoracic kyphosis (TK), lumbar lordosis (LL), pelvic incidence (PI), PI-LL, sacral slope (SS), pelvic tilt (PT), and knee flexion. Whole spine MRI examination was also performed. Cluster analysis of the SRS-22r scores in the pooled data was performed to classify the subjects into three groups according to the HRQOL, and alignment parameters were then compared among the three cluster groups. Results. On the basis of cluster analysis of the SRS-22r subscores, the pooled subjects were divided into three HRQOL groups as follows: almost normal (mean 4.24 (SD 0.32)), mildly disabled (mean 3.32 (SD 0.24)), and severely disabled (mean 2.31 (SD 0.35)). Except for CAM-GL, all the alignment parameters differed significantly among the cluster groups. The threshold values of key alignment parameters for severe disability were TPA > 30°, C2-7 lordosis > 13°, PI-LL > 30°, PT > 28°, and knee flexion > 8°. Lumbar spinal stenosis was found to be associated with the symptom severity. Conclusion. This study provides evidence that the three grades of sagittal compensation in whole body alignment correlate with HRQOL scores. The compensation grades depend on the clinical diagnosis, whole body sagittal alignment, and lumbar spinal stenosis. The threshold values of key alignment parameters may be an indication for treatment. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(10):1359–1367

Aims. The health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of paediatric patients with orthopaedic conditions and spinal deformity is important, but existing generic tools have their shortcomings. We aim to evaluate the use of Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 4.0 generic core scales in the paediatric population with specific comparisons between those with spinal and limb pathologies, and to explore the feasibility of using PedsQL for studying scoliosis patients’ HRQoL. Methods. Paediatric patients attending a speciality outpatient clinic were recruited through consecutive sampling. Two groups of patients were included: idiopathic scoliosis, and paediatric orthopaedic upper and lower limb condition without scoliosis. Patients were asked to complete PedsQL 4.0 generic core scales, Youth version of 5-level EuroQol-5-dimension questionnaire, and Refined Scoliosis Research Society 22-item (SRS-22r) questionnaire. Statistical analyses included scores comparison between scoliosis and limb pathology patients using independent-samples t-test, and correlation tests of PedsQL and SRS-22r. Results. A total of 566 paediatric patients were recruited: 357 (63.0%) having idiopathic scoliosis, and 209 (37.0%) with limb conditions. Patients with limb pathology had lower functioning scale, summary, and total scores of PedsQL than scoliosis patients (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001). No floor or ceiling effects (< 15%) were detected for PedsQL Psychosocial Health Summary and total scores in both groups. PedsQL was sensitive in differentiating patients with/without problems in their daily lives (p < 0.05 to p < 0.01). PedsQL summary and total scores correlated with SRS-22r total score. Conclusion. PedsQL is an effective HRQoL measure for both paediatric orthopaedic groups with minimal ceiling and floor effects, and is capable of detecting worse HRQoL in patients with limb pathology. The multidimensional PedsQL is sensitive in differentiating among those with daily life problems, especially for scoliosis patients. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(7):890–898

Aims. To identify the prevalence of neuropathic pain after lower limb fracture surgery, assess associations with pain severity, quality of life and disability, and determine baseline predictors of chronic neuropathic pain at three and at six months post-injury. Methods. Secondary analysis of a UK multicentre randomized controlled trial (Wound Healing in Surgery for Trauma; WHiST) dataset including adults aged 16 years or over following surgery for lower limb major trauma. The trial recruited 1,547 participants from 24 trauma centres. Neuropathic pain was measured at three and six months using the Doleur Neuropathique Questionnaire (DN4); 701 participants provided a DN4 score at three months and 781 at six months. Overall, 933 participants provided DN4 for at least one time point. Physical disability (Disability Rating Index (DRI) 0 to 100) and health-related quality-of-life (EuroQol five-dimension five-level; EQ-5D-5L) were measured. Candidate predictors of neuropathic pain included sex, age, BMI, injury mechanism, concurrent injury, diabetes, smoking, alcohol, analgaesia use pre-injury, index surgery location, fixation type, Injury Severity Score, open injury, and wound care. Results. The median age of the participants was 51 years (interquartile range 35 to 64). At three and six months post-injury respectively, 32% (222/702) and 30% (234/787) had neuropathic pain, 56% (396/702) and 53% (413/787) had chronic pain without neuropathic characteristics, and the remainder were pain-free. Pain severity was higher among those with neuropathic pain. Linear regression analyses found that those with neuropathic pain at six months post-injury had more physical disability (DRI adjusted mean difference 11.49 (95% confidence interval (CI) 7.84 to 15.14; p < 0.001) and poorer quality of life (EQ-5D utility -0.15 (95% CI -0.19 to -0.11); p < 0.001) compared to those without neuropathic characteristics. Logistic regression identified that prognostic factors of younger age, current smoker, below knee fracture, concurrent injuries, and regular analgaesia pre-injury were associated with higher odds of post-injury neuropathic pain. Conclusion. Pain with neuropathic characteristics is common after lower limb fracture surgery and persists to six months post-injury. Persistent neuropathic pain is associated with substantially poorer recovery. Further attention to identify neuropathic pain post-lower limb injury, predicting patients at risk, and targeting interventions, is indicated. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(6):1047–1054

We investigated the pre-operative and one-year post-operative health-related quality of life (HRQoL) outcome by using a Euroqol (EQ-5D) questionnaire in 230 patients who underwent surgery for lumbar spinal stenosis. Data were obtained from the National Swedish Registry for operations on the lumbar spine between 2001 and 2002. We analysed the pre- and postoperative quality of life data, age, gender, smoking habits, pain and walking ability. The relative differences were compared to a Swedish EQ-5D population survey. The mean age of the patients was 66 years, and there were 123 females (53%). Before the operation 62 (27%) of the patients could walk more than 500 m. One year after the operation 150 (65%) were able to walk 500 m or more. The mean EQ-5D score improved from 0.36 to 0.64, and the HRQoL improved in 184 (80%) of the patients. However, they did not reach the level reported by a matched population sample (mean difference 0.18). Women had lower pre- and post-operative EQ-5D scores than men. Severe low back pain was a predictor for a poor outcome

We investigated the pre-operative and one-year post-operative health-related quality of life (HRQOL) outcome by using a Euroqol (EQ-5D) questionnaire in 263 patients who had undergone surgery for herniation of a lumbar disc. Data from the National Swedish Register for lumbar spinal surgery between 2001 and 2002 were used and, in addition, a comparison between our cohort and a Swedish EQ-5D population survey was performed. We analysed the pre- and post-operative quality of life data, age, gender, smoking habits, pain and walking capacity. The mean age of the patients was 42 years (20 to 66); 155 (59%) were men and 69 (26%) smoked. Pre-operatively, 72 (17%) could walk at least 1 km compared with 200 (76%) postoperatively. The mean EQ-5D score improved from 0.29 to 0.70, and the HRQOL improved in 195 (74%) of the patients. The pre-operative score did not influence the post-operative score. In most patients, all five EQ-5D dimensions improved, but did not reach the level reported by an age- and gender-matched population sample (mean difference 0.17). Predictors for poor outcome were smoking, a short pre-operative walking distance, and a long history of back pain

We conducted a multicentre cohort study of 228 patients with osteoarthritis followed up after total hip or knee replacement. Quality of life and patient satisfaction were assessed by self-administered questionnaires. Patient satisfaction was the dependent variable in a multivariate linear regression model. Independent variables included sociodemographic factors, pre- and post-operative clinical characteristics and the pre-operative and post-discharge health-related quality of life. The mean age of the patients was 69 years (. sd. 9), and 43.8% were male. Pre- and postoperative clinical characteristics were not associated with satisfaction with health care. Only pre-operative bodily pain (p < 0.01) and pre-operative social functioning (p < 0.05) influenced patient satisfaction with care. The pre-operative health-related quality of life and patient characteristics have little effect on inpatient satisfaction with care. This suggests that the impact of the care process on satisfaction may be independent of observed and perceived initial patient-related characteristics

Aims. A trial-based comparison of the use of resources, costs and quality of life outcomes of arthroscopic and open surgical management for rotator cuff tears in the United Kingdom NHS was performed using data from the United Kingdom Rotator Cuff Study (UKUFF) randomised controlled trial. Patients and Methods. Using data from 273 patients, healthcare-related use of resources, costs and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) were estimated at 12 months and 24 months after surgery on an intention-to-treat basis with adjustment for covariates. Uncertainty about the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for arthroscopic versus open management at 24 months of follow-up was incorporated using bootstrapping. Multiple imputation methods were used to deal with missing data. Results. There were no significant differences between the arthroscopic and open groups in terms of total mean use and cost of resources or QALYs at any time post-operatively. Open management dominated arthroscopic management in 59.8% of bootstrapped cost and effect differences. The probability that arthroscopic management was cost-effective compared with open management at a willingness-to-pay threshold of £20 000 per QALY gained was 20.9%. Conclusion. There was no significant overall difference in the use or cost of resources or quality of life between arthroscopic and open management in the trial. There was uncertainty about which strategy was most cost-effective. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:1648–55

Aims. The aim of this study was to evaluate health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and joint function in tenosynovial giant cell tumour (TGCT) patients before and after surgical treatment. Patients and Methods. This prospective cohort study run in two Dutch referral centres assessed patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs; 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC)) in 359 consecutive patients with localized- and diffuse-type TGCT of large joints. Patients with recurrent disease (n = 121) and a wait-and-see policy (n = 32) were excluded. Collected data were analyzed at specified time intervals preoperatively (baseline) and/or postoperatively up to five years. Results. A total of 206 TGCT patients, 108 localized- and 98 diffuse-type, were analyzed. Median age at diagnosis of localized- and diffuse-type was 41 years (interquartile range (IQR) 29 to 49) and 37 years (IQR 27 to 47), respectively. SF-36 analyses showed statistically significant and clinically relevant deteriorated preoperative and immediate postoperative scores compared with general Dutch population means, depending on subscale and TGCT subtype. After three to six months of follow-up, these scores improved to general population means and continued to be fairly stable over the following years. VAS scores, for both subtypes, showed no statistically significant or clinically relevant differences pre- or postoperatively. In diffuse-type patients, the improvement in median WOMAC score was statistically significant and clinically relevant preoperatively versus six to 24 months postoperatively, and remained up to five years’ follow-up. Conclusion. Patients with TGCT report a better HRQoL and joint function after surgery. Pain scores, which vary hugely between patients and in patients over time, did not improve. A disease-specific PROM would help to decipher the impact of TGCT on patients’ daily life and functioning in more detail. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B:272–280

Tibiotalar fusion is considered to be the standard treatment for end-stage post-traumatic arthritis of the ankle. We report a retrospective, objective long-term study of the quality of life of 17 patients with 18 arthrodeses of the ankle, over a period of more than 20 years. We looked particularly for correlation between clinical and radiological signs of osteoarthritis in adjoining joints. At serial physical examinations, clinical grades were awarded according to the Olerud Molander Ankle (OMA) score. Any degree of degenerative change in the adjoining joints was recorded on standing radiographs. Patients filled out a SF-36 Health Survey form. Subjectively, 50% of patients were not handicapped in the performance of daily activities and 44% were in the same job as at the time of injury. At follow-up the mean OMA score was 59.4 points, the visual analogue scale was 1.99 and the radiological score was 2.7. The SF-36 for physical function, emotional disturbance and bodily pain revealed significant deficits. There was a significant correlation between the OMA and the radiological score (p = 0.05), and between the clinical and the SF-36 score (p = 0.01), but no significant correlation between the radiological score and the SF-36 score. Arthrodesis of the ankle leads to deficits in the functional outcome, to limitations in the activities of daily living and to radiological changes in the adjoining joints. The clinical outcome score correlates closely with the SF-36 score

Aims. Surgical treatment of hip fracture is challenging; the bone is porotic and fixation failure can be catastrophic. Novel implants are available which may yield superior clinical outcomes. This study compared the clinical effectiveness of the novel X-Bolt Hip System (XHS) with the sliding hip screw (SHS) for the treatment of fragility hip fractures. Methods. We conducted a multicentre, superiority, randomized controlled trial. Patients aged 60 years and older with a trochanteric hip fracture were recruited in ten acute UK NHS hospitals. Participants were randomly allocated to fixation of their fracture with XHS or SHS. A total of 1,128 participants were randomized with 564 participants allocated to each group. Participants and outcome assessors were blind to treatment allocation. The primary outcome was the EuroQol five-dimension five-level health status (EQ-5D-5L) utility at four months. The minimum clinically important difference in utility was pre-specified at 0.075. Secondary outcomes were EQ-5D-5L utility at 12 months, mortality, residential status, mobility, revision surgery, and radiological measures. Results. Overall, 437 and 443 participants were analyzed in the primary intention-to-treat analysis in XHS and SHS treatment groups respectively. There was a mean difference of 0.029 in adjusted utility index in favour of XHS with no evidence of a difference between treatment groups (95% confidence interval -0.013 to 0.070; p = 0.175). There was no evidence of any differences between treatment groups in any of the secondary outcomes. The pattern and overall risk of adverse events associated with both treatments was similar. Conclusion. Any difference in four-month health-related quality of life between the XHS and SHS is small and not clinically important. There was no evidence of a difference in the safety profile of the two treatments; both were associated with lower risks of revision surgery than previously reported. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(2):256–263

We investigated whether patients who underwent internal fixation for an isolated acetabular fracture were able to return to their previous sporting activities. We studied 52 consecutive patients with an isolated acetabular fracture who were operated on between January 2001 and December 2002. Their demographic details, fracture type, rehabilitation regime, outcome and complications were documented prospectively as was their level and frequency of participation in sport both before and after surgery. Quality of life was measured using the EuroQol-5D health outcome tool (EQ-5D). There was a significant reduction in level of activity, frequency of participation in sport (both p < 0.001) and EQ-5D scores in patients of all age groups compared to a normal English population (p = 0.001). A total of 22 (42%) were able to return to their previous level of activities: 35 (67%) were able to take part in sport at some level. Of all the parameters analysed, the Matta radiological follow-up criteria were the single best predictor for resumption of sporting activity and frequency of participation

We compared the mortality and outcome of 182 patients with proximal fractures of the femur after immediate and delayed surgical treatment. Seventy-nine patients were operated upon within six hours of the fracture (group 1) and 103 patients were operated upon after this period of time (group 2).

At six months follow-up, group 1 had a significantly lower mortality rate. There was a good outcome in both groups with no differences in the outcome. Neither surgical nor anaesthetic factors appeared to have influenced mortality. The subdivision of groups revealed that patients operated on within 24 hours had a better outcome than those whose surgery was delayed.

Although there may have been a bias, as patients were not randomly assigned to immediate or delayed surgical treatment, the data suggest that early stabilisation may be associated with a lower mortality rate. Even with pre-clinical delays of more than six hours early treatment should still be attempted, as better results seem to be achieved after 24 hours compared to a later time in our patients.

We have undertaken a prospective evaluation of health-related quality-of-life outcomes in 26 consecutive patients undergoing periacetabular osteotomy with a minimum follow-up of 24 months (24 to 42). The Western Ontario-Macmaster (WOMAC) and Short Form 36 (SF-36) outcome measures were evaluated preoperatively and at follow-up. Secondary outcome measures included retrospective assessment of sports activity and satisfaction with the procedure.

Follow-up data were available for 22 patients (85%). A significant improvement in the pain (p < 0.0001) and function (p < 0.0001) scales of the WOMAC and the SF-36 physical score (p < 0.0001) was seen. The mean sports activity score improved from 1.9 to 4.4, with a very high mean satisfaction rating of 89.7/100.

A significant improvement in both global and disease-specific health outcomes can be expected after this operation, with a high rate of satisfaction and improvement in sporting activities.

Aims. The aim of this study was to assess the quality of life of patients on the waiting list for a total hip (THA) or knee arthroplasty (KA) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Secondary aims were to assess whether length of time on the waiting list influenced quality of life and rate of deferral of surgery. Methods. During the study period (August and September 2020) 843 patients (THA n = 394, KA n = 449) from ten centres in the UK reported their EuroQol five dimension (EQ-5D) scores and completed a waiting list questionnaire (2020 group). Patient demographic details, procedure, and date when listed were recorded. Patients scoring less than zero for their EQ-5D score were defined to be in a health state “worse than death” (WTD). Data from a retrospective cohort (January 2014 to September 2017) were used as the control group. Results. The 2020 group had a significantly worse EQ-5D score compared to the control group for both THA (p < 0.001) and KA (p < 0.001). Over one-third (35.0%, n = 138/394) of patients waiting for a THA and nearly a quarter (22.3%, n = 100/449) for KA were in a health state WTD, which was significantly greater than the control group (odds ratio 2.30 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.83 to 2.93) and 2.08 (95% CI 1.61 to 2.70), respectively; p < 0.001). Over 80% (n = 680/843) of the 2020 group felt that their quality of life had deteriorated while waiting. Each additional month spent on the waiting list was independently associated with a decrease in quality of life (EQ-5D: -0.0135, p = 0.004). There were 117 (13.9%) patients who wished to defer their surgery and the main reason for this was health concerns for themselves and or their family (99.1%, n = 116/117). Conclusion. Over one-third of patients waiting for THA and nearly one-quarter waiting for a KA were in a state WTD, which was approaching double that observed prior to the pandemic. Increasing length of time on the waiting list was associated with decreasing quality of life. Level of evidence: Level III retrospective case control study. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(4):672–680

Aims. With recent progress in cancer treatment, the number of advanced-age patients with spinal metastases has been increasing. It is important to clarify the influence of advanced age on outcomes following surgery for spinal metastases, especially with a focus on subjective health state values. Methods. We prospectively analyzed 101 patients with spinal metastases who underwent palliative surgery from 2013 to 2016. These patients were divided into two groups based on age (< 70 years and ≥ 70 years). The Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status (PS), Barthel index (BI), and EuroQol-5 dimension (EQ-5D) score were assessed at study enrolment and at one, three, and six months after surgery. The survival times and complications were also collected. Results. In total, 65 patients were aged < 70 years (mean 59.6 years; 32 to 69) and 36 patients were aged ≥ 70 years (mean 75.9 years; 70 to 90). In both groups, the PS improved from PS3 to PS1 by spine surgery, the mean BI improved from < 60 to > 80 points, and the mean EQ-5D score improved from 0.0 to > 0.7 points. However, no significant differences were found in the improvement rates and values of the PS, BI, and EQ-5D score at any time points between the two groups. The PS, BI, and EQ-5D score improved throughout the follow-up period in approximately 90% of patients in each group. However, the improved PS, BI, and EQ-5D scores subsequently deteriorated in some patients, and the redeterioration rate of the EQ-5D was significantly higher in patients aged ≥ 70 than < 70 years (p = 0.027). Conclusion. Palliative surgery for spinal metastases improved the PS, activities of daily living, and quality of life, regardless of age. However, clinicians should be aware of the higher risk of redeterioration of the quality of life in advanced-age patients. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(12):1709–1716

Aims. The aim of this study was to estimate the clinical and economic burden of dislocation following primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) in England. Methods. This retrospective evaluation used data from the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink database. Patients were eligible if they underwent a primary THA (index date) and had medical records available 90 days pre-index and 180 days post-index. Bilateral THAs were excluded. Healthcare costs and resource use were evaluated over two years. Changes (pre- vs post-THA) in generic quality of life (QoL) and joint-specific disability were evaluated. Propensity score matching controlled for baseline differences between patients with and without THA dislocation. Results. Among 13,044 patients (mean age 69.2 years (SD 11.4), 60.9% female), 191 (1.5%) had THA dislocation. Two-year median direct medical costs were £15,333 (interquartile range (IQR) 14,437 to 16,156) higher for patients with THA dislocation. Patients underwent revision surgery after a mean of 1.5 dislocations (1 to 5). Two-year costs increased to £54,088 (IQR 34,126 to 59,117) for patients with multiple closed reductions and a revision procedure. On average, patients with dislocation had greater healthcare resource use and less improvement in EuroQol five-dimension index (mean 0.24 (SD 0.35) vs 0.44 (SD 0.35); p < 0.001) and visual analogue scale (0.95 vs 8.85; p = 0.038) scores, and Oxford Hip Scores (12.93 vs 21.19; p < 0.001). Conclusion. The cost, resource use, and QoL burden of THA dislocation in England are substantial. Further research is required to understand optimal timing of revision after dislocation, with regard to cost-effectiveness and impact on QoL. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(7):811–819

Aims. The aim of the Scaphoid Waist Internal Fixation for Fractures Trial (SWIFFT) was to determine the optimal treatment for adults with a bicortical undisplaced or minimally displaced fracture of the waist of the scaphoid, comparing early surgical fixation with initial cast immobilization, with immediate fixation being offered to patients with nonunion. Methods. A cost-effectiveness analysis was conducted to assess the relative merits of these forms of treatment. The differences in costs to the healthcare system and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) of the patients over the one-year follow-up of the trial in the two treatment arms were estimated using regression analysis. Results. Our base case analysis found that patients randomized to early surgical fixation had statistically significantly higher mean costs to the NHS of £1,295 more than for the cast immobilization arm (p < 0.001), primarily due to the cost of surgery. They also had a marginally better quality of life, over the period, of 0.0158 QALYs; however, this was not statistically significant (p = 0.379). The mean combined cost per additional QALY was £81,962, well above the accepted threshold for cost-effectiveness used in the UK and internationally. The probability of early surgery being cost-effective in this setting was only 5.6%. Conclusion. Consistent with the clinical findings of SWIFFT, these results indicate that initial cast immobilization of minimally displaced scaphoid fractures, with immediate fixation only offered to patients with nonunion, is the optimal form of treatment, resulting in comparable outcomes with less cost to the healthcare system. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7):1277–1283

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcome of adults with spina bifida cystica (SBC) who had been treated either operatively or non-operatively for scoliosis during childhood. We reviewed 45 patients with a SBC scoliosis (Cobb angle ≥ 50º) who had been treated at one of two children’s hospitals between 1991 and 2007. Of these, 34 (75.6%) had been treated operatively and 11 (24.4%) non-operatively. After a mean follow-up of 14.1 years (standard deviation (. sd. ) 4.3) clinical, radiological and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) outcomes were evaluated using the Spina Bifida Spine Questionnaire (SBSQ) and the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). Although patients in the two groups were demographically similar, those who had undergone surgery had a larger mean Cobb angle (88.0º (. sd. 20.5; 50.0 to 122.0); versus 65.7º (. sd. 22.0; 51.0 to 115.0); p < 0.01) and a larger mean clavicle–rib intersection difference (12.3 mm; (. sd. 8.5; 1 to 37); versus 4.1 mm, (. sd. 5.9; 0 to 16); p = 0.01) than those treated non-operatively. Both groups were statistically similar at follow-up with respect to walking capacity, neurological motor level, sitting balance and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) outcomes. Spinal fusion in SBC scoliosis corrects coronal deformity and stops progression of the curve but has no clear effect on HRQOL. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014; 96-B:1244–51

Aims. The aim of this study was to estimate economic outcomes associated with deep surgical site infection (SSI) in patients with an open fracture of the lower limb. Patients and Methods. A total of 460 patients were recruited from 24 specialist trauma hospitals in the United Kingdom Major Trauma Network. Preference-based health-related quality-of-life outcomes, assessed using the EuroQol EQ-5D-3L and the 6-Item Short-Form Health Survey questionnaire (SF-6D), and economic costs (£, 2014/2015 prices) were measured using participant-completed questionnaires over the 12 months following injury. Descriptive statistics and multivariate regression analysis were used to explore the relationship between deep SSI and health utility scores, quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), and health and personal social service (PSS) costs. Results. Deep SSI was associated with lower EQ-5D-3L derived QALYs (adjusted mean difference -0.102, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.202 to 0.001, p = 0.047) and increased health and social care costs (adjusted mean difference £1950; 95% CI £1383 to £5285, p = 0.250) versus patients without deep SSI over the 12 months following injury. Conclusion. Deep SSI may lead to significantly impaired health-related quality of life and increased economic costs. Our economic estimates can be used to inform clinical and budgetary service planning and can act as reference data for future economic evaluations of preventive or treatment interventions. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:1506–10

Lengthening of the humerus is now an established technique. We compared the complications of humeral lengthening with those of femoral lengthening and investigated whether or not the callus formation in the humerus proceeds at a higher rate than that in the femur. A total of 24 humeral and 24 femoral lengthenings were performed on 12 patients with achondroplasia. We measured the pixel value ratio (PVR) of the lengthened area on radiographs and each radiograph was analysed for the shape, type and density of the callus. The quality of life (QOL) of the patients after humeral lengthening was compared with that prior to surgery. The complication rate per segment of humerus and femur was 0.87% and 1.37%, respectively. In the humerus the PVR was significantly higher than that of the femur. Lower limbs were associated with an increased incidence of concave, lateral and central callus shapes. Humeral lengthening had a lower complication rate than lower-limb lengthening, and QOL increased significantly after humeral lengthening. Callus formation in the humerus during the distraction period proceeded at a significantly higher rate than that in the femur. . These findings indicate that humeral lengthening has an important role in the management of patients with achondroplasia

Van Nes rotationplasty may be used for patients with congenital proximal focal femoral deficiency (PFFD). The lower limb is rotated to use the ankle and foot as a functional knee joint within a prosthesis. A small series of cases was investigated to determine the long-term outcome. At a mean of 21.5 years (11 to 45) after their rotationplasty, a total of 12 prosthetic patients completed the Short-Form (SF)-36, Faces Pain Scale-Revised, Harris hip score, Oswestry back pain score and Prosthetic Evaluation Questionnaires, as did 12 age- and gender-matched normal control participants. A physical examination and gait analysis, computerised dynamic posturography (CDP), and timed ‘Up & Go’ testing was also completed. Wilcoxon Signed rank test was used to compare each PFFD patient with a matched control participant with false discovery rate of 5%. There were no differences between the groups in overall health and well-being on the SF-36. Significant differences were seen in gait parameters in the PFFD group. Using CDP, the PFFD group had reduced symmetry in stance, and reduced end point and maximum excursions. Patients who had undergone Van Nes rotationplasty had a high level of function and quality of life at long-term follow-up, but presented with significant differences in gait and posture compared with the control group. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:192–8

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The aim of this study was to develop a psychometrically sound measure of recovery for use in patients who have suffered an open tibial fracture.

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The aim of this study was to assess the influence of obesity on the clinical outcomes and survivorship ten years postoperatively in patients who underwent a fixed-bearing unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA).

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The aims of this study were to quantify health state utility values (HSUVs) after a tibial fracture, investigate the effect of complications, to determine the trajectory in HSUVs that result in these differences and to quantify the quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) experienced by patients.

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Since long-term outcome of teres major tendon transfer surgery for irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff (RC) tears is largely unknown, the primary aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcome of the teres major transfer. We also aimed to report on the results of a cohort of patients with a similar indication for surgery that underwent a latissimus dorsi tendon transfer.

Aims. To report the outcomes of patients with a fracture of the distal tibia who were treated with intramedullary nail versus locking plate in the five years after participating in the Fixation of Distal Tibia fracture (FixDT) trial. Methods. The FixDT trial reported the results for 321 patients randomized to nail or locking plate fixation in the first 12 months after their injury. In this follow-up study, we report the results of 170 of the original participants who agreed to be followed up until five years. Participants reported their Disability Rating Index (DRI) and health-related quality of life (EuroQol five-dimension three-level questionnaire) annually by self-reported questionnaire. Further surgical interventions related to the fracture were also recorded. Results. There was no evidence of a difference in patient-reported disability, health-related quality of life, or the need for further surgery between participants treated with either type of fixation at five years. Considering the combined results for all participants, there was no significant change in DRI scores after the first 12 months of follow-up (difference between 12 and 24 months, 3.3 (95% confidence interval -1.8 to 8.5); p = 0.203), with patients reporting around 20% disability at five years. Conclusion. This study shows that the moderate levels of disability and reduced quality of life reported by participants 12 months after a fracture of the distal tibia persist in the medium term, with little evidence of improvement after the first year. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(7):795–800