Aims. A recent report from France suggested an association between the use of cobalt-chrome (CoCr) femoral heads in total hip arthroplasties (THAs) and an increased risk of dilated cardiomyopathy and heart failure. CoCr is a commonly used material in orthopaedic implants. If the reported association is causal, the consequences would be significant given the millions of joint arthroplasties and other orthopaedic procedures in which CoCr is used annually. We examined whether CoCr-containing THAs were associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality, heart outcomes, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders in a large national database. Methods. Data from the National Joint Registry was linked to NHS English hospital inpatient episodes for 374,359 primary THAs with up to 14.5 years' follow-up. We excluded any patients with bilateral THAs, knee arthroplasties, indications other than osteoarthritis, aged under 55 years, and diagnosis of one or more outcome of interest before THA. Implants were grouped as either containing CoCr or not containing CoCr. The association between implant construct and the risk of all-cause mortality and incident heart failure, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders was examined. Results. There were 158,677 individuals (42.4%) with an implant containing CoCr. There were 47,963 deaths, 27,332 heart outcomes, 35,720 cancers, and 22,025 neurodegenerative disorders. There was no evidence of an association between patients with CoCr implants and higher rates of any of the outcomes. Conclusion. CoCr-containing THAs did not have an increased risk of all-cause mortality, or clinically meaningful heart outcomes, cancer, or neurodegenerative disorders into the second decade post-implantation. Our findings will help reassure clinicians and the increasing number of patients receiving primary THA worldwide that the use of CoCr-containing implants is not associated with significant adverse systemic effects. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(3):359–367

Aims. Iliopsoas pathology is a relatively uncommon cause of pain following total hip arthroplasty (THA), typically presenting with symptoms of groin pain on active flexion and/or extension of the hip. A variety of conservative and surgical treatment options have been reported. In this retrospective cohort study, we report the incidence of iliopsoas pathology and treatment outcomes. Methods. A retrospective review of 1,000 patients who underwent THA over a five-year period was conducted, to determine the incidence of patients diagnosed with iliopsoas pathology. Outcome following non-surgical and surgical management was assessed. Results. In all, 24 patients were diagnosed as having developed symptomatic iliopsoas pathology giving an incidence of 2.4%. While the mean age for receiving a THA was 65 years, the mean age for developing iliopsoas pathology was 54 years (28 to 67). Younger patients and those receiving THA for conditions other than primary osteoarthritis were at a higher risk of developing this complication. Ultrasound-guided steroid injection/physiotherapy resulted in complete resolution of symptoms in 61% of cases, partial resolution in 13%, and no benefit in 26%. Eight out of 24 patients (who initially responded to injection) subsequently underwent surgical intervention including tenotomy (n = 7) and revision of the acetabular component (n = 1). Conclusion. This is the largest case series to estimate the incidence of iliopsoas pathology to date. There is a higher incidence of this condition in younger patients, possibly due to the differing surgical indications. Arthoplasty for Perthes' disease or developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) often results in leg length and horizontal offset being increased. This, in turn, may increase tension on the iliopsoas tendon, possibly resulting in a higher risk of psoas irritation. Image-guided steroid injection is a low-risk, relatively effective treatment. In refractory cases, tendon release may be considered. Patients should be counselled of the risk of persisting groin pain when undergoing THA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(2):305–308

Aims. Previous research has demonstrated increased early complication rates following total hip arthroplasty (THA) in obese patients, as defined by body mass index (BMI). Subcutaneous fat depth (FD) has been shown to be an independent risk factor for wound infection in cervical and lumbar spine surgery, as well as after abdominal laparotomy. The aim of this study was to investigate whether increased peritrochanteric FD was associated with an increased risk of complications in the first year following THA. Methods. We analyzed prospectively collected data on a consecutive series of 1,220 primary THAs from June 2013 until May 2018. The vertical soft tissue depth from the most prominent part of the greater trochanter to the skin was measured intraoperatively using a sterile ruler and recorded to the nearest millimetre. BMI was calculated at the patient’s preoperative assessment. All surgical complications occuring within the initial 12 months of follow-up were identified. Results. Females had a significantly greater FD at the greater trochanter in comparison to males (median 3.0 cm (interquartile range (IQR) 2.3 to 4.0) vs 2.0 cm (IQR 1.7 to 3.0); p < 0.001) despite equivalent BMI between sexes (male median BMI 30.0 kg/m. 2. (IQR 27.0 to 33.0); female median 29.0 kg/m. 2. (IQR 25.0 to 33.0)). FD showed a weak correlation with BMI (R² 0.41 males and R² 0.43 females). Patients with the greatest FD (upper quartile) were at no greater risk of complications compared with patients with the lowest FD (lower quartile); 7/311 (2.3%) vs 9/439 (2.1%); p = 0.820 . Conversely, patients with the highest BMI (≥ 40 kg/m. 2. ) had a significantly increased risk of complications compared with patients with lower BMI (< 40 kg/m. 2. ); 5/60 (8.3% vs 18/1,160 (1.6%), odds ratio (OR) 5.77 (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.1 to 16.1; p = 0.001)). Conclusion. We found no relationship between peritrochanteric FD and the risk of surgical complications following primary THA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(9):1146–1150

Aims. Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) remains a challenging complication following total hip arthroplasty (THA). It is associated with high levels of morbidity, mortality and expense. Guidelines and protocols exist for the management of culture-positive patients. Managing culture-negative patients with a PJI poses a greater challenge to surgeons and the wider multidisciplinary team as clear guidance is lacking. Patients and Methods. We aimed to compare the outcomes of treatment for 50 consecutive culture-negative and 50 consecutive culture-positive patients who underwent two-stage revision THA for chronic infection with a minimum follow-up of five years. Results. There was no significant difference in the outcomes between the two groups of patients, with a similar rate of re-infection of 6%, five years post-operatively. Culture-negative PJIs were associated with older age, smoking, referral from elsewhere and pre-operative antibiotic treatment. The samples in the culture-negative patients were negative before the first stage (aspiration), during the first-stage (implant removal) and second-stage procedures (re-implantation). Conclusion. Adherence to strict protocols for selecting and treating culture-negative patients with a PJI using the same two-stage revision approach that we employ for complex culture-positive PJIs is important in order to achieve control of the infection in this difficult group of patients. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;(1 Supple A)100-B:3–8

The outcome after total hip replacement has improved with the development of surgical techniques, better pain management and the introduction of enhanced recovery pathways. These pathways require a multidisciplinary team to manage pre-operative education, multimodal pain control and accelerated rehabilitation. The current economic climate and restricted budgets favour brief hospitalisation while minimising costs. This has put considerable pressure on hospitals to combine excellent results, early functional recovery and shorter admissions. In this review we present an evidence-based summary of some common interventions and methods, including pre-operative patient education, pre-emptive analgesia, local infiltration analgesia, pre-operative nutrition, the use of pulsed electromagnetic fields, peri-operative rehabilitation, wound dressings, different surgical techniques, minimally invasive surgery and fast-track joint replacement units. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1587–94

Aims. We assessed the difference in hospital based and early clinical outcomes between the direct anterior approach and the posterior approach in patients who undergo total hip arthroplasty (THA). Patients and Methods. The outcome was assessed in 448 (203 males, 245 females) consecutive patients undergoing unilateral primary THA after the implementation of an ‘Enhanced Recovery’ pathway. In all, 265 patients (mean age: 71 years (49 to 89); 117 males and 148 females) had surgery using the direct anterior approach (DAA) and 183 patients (mean age: 70 years (26 to 100); 86 males and 97 females) using a posterior approach. The groups were compared for age, gender, American Society of Anesthesiologists grade, body mass index, the side of the operation, pre-operative Oxford Hip Score (OHS) and attendance at ‘Joint school’. Mean follow-up was 18.1 months (one to 50). Results. There was no significant difference in mean length of stay (p = 0.07), pain scores on the day of surgery, the first, second and third post-operative days (p = 0.36, 0.23, 0.25 and 0.59, respectively), the day of mobilisation (p = 0.12), the mean OHS at six and 24 months (p = 0.08, and 0.29, respectively), the incidence of infection (p = 1.0), dislocation (p = 1.0), re-operation (p = 0.21) or 28 days’ re-admission (p = 0.06). Significantly more patients in the DAA group achieved a planned discharge target of three days post-operatively (68% vs 56%, p = 0.007). The rate of periprosthetic femoral fractures was significantly higher in the DAA group (p = 0.04). Conclusion. We conclude that there is no difference in clinical outcomes between the DAA and the posterior approach in patients undergoing THA when an ‘Enhanced Recovery’ pathway is used. However, a significantly higher rate of periprosthetic femoral fractures remains a concern with the DAA, even in experienced hands. Take home message: Our results show that the DAA for THA is not superior to posterior approach when ‘Enhanced Recovery’ pathway is used. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:754–60

The timing of total hip replacement (THR) in patients with active tuberculosis (TB) of the hip is controversial, because of the potential risk of reactivation of infection. There is little information about the outcome of THR in these patients. We conducted a systematic review of published studies that evaluated the outcome of THR in patients with active TB of the hip. A review of multiple databases referenced articles published between 1950 and 2012. A total of six articles were identified, comprising 65 patients. TB was confirmed histologically in all patients. The mean follow-up was 53.2 months (24 to 108). Antituberculosis treatment continued post-operatively for between six and 15 months, after debridement and THR. One non-compliant patient had reactivation of infection. At the final follow-up the mean Harris hip score was 91.7 (56 to 98). We conclude that THR in patients with active TB of the hip is a safe procedure, providing symptomatic relief and functional improvement if undertaken in association with extensive debridement and appropriate antituberculosis treatment. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:578–82

Total hip replacement (THR) has been shown to be a cost-effective procedure. However, it is not risk-free. Certain conditions, such as diabetes mellitus, are thought to increase the risk of complications. In this study we have evaluated the prevalence of diabetes mellitus in patients undergoing THR and the associated risk of adverse operative outcomes. A meta-analysis and systematic review were conducted according to the guidelines of the meta-analysis of observational studies in epidemiology. Inclusion criteria were observational studies reporting the prevalence of diabetes in the study population, accompanied by reports of at least one of the following outcomes: venous thromboembolic events; acute coronary events; infections of the urinary tract, lower respiratory tract or surgical site; or requirement for revision arthroplasty. Altman and Bland’s methods were used to calculate differences in relative risks. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus was found to be 5.0% among patients undergoing THR, and was associated with an increased risk of established surgical site infection (odds ratio (OR) 2.04 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.52 to 2.76)), urinary infection (OR 1.43 (95% CI 1.33 to 1.55)) and lower respiratory tract infections (OR 1.95 (95% CI 1.61 to 2.26)). Diabetes mellitus is a relatively common comorbidity encountered in THR. Diabetic patients have a higher rate of developing both surgical site and non-surgical site infections following THR. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1474–9

Several factors have been implicated in unsatisfactory results after total hip replacement (THR). We examined whether femoral offset, as measured on digitised post-operative radiographs, was associated with pain after THR. The routine post-operative radiographs of 362 patients (230 women and 132 men, mean age 70.0 years (35.2 to 90.5)) who received primary unilateral THRs of varying designs were measured after calibration. The femoral offset was calculated using the known dimensions of the implants to control for femoral rotation. Femoral offset was categorised into three groups: normal offset (within 5 mm of the height-adjusted femoral offset), low offset and high offset. We determined the associations to the absolute final score and the improvement in the mean Western Ontario and McMaster Universities osteoarthritis index (WOMAC) pain subscale scores at three, six, 12 and 24 months, adjusting for confounding variables. The amount of femoral offset was associated with the mean WOMAC pain subscale score at all points of follow-up, with the low-offset group reporting less WOMAC pain than the normal or high-offset groups (six months: 7.01 (. sd. 11.69) vs 12.26 (. sd. 15.10) vs 13.10 (. sd. 16.20), p = 0.006; 12 months: 6.55 (. sd. 11.09) vs 9.73 (. sd. 13.76) vs 13.46 (. sd. 18.39), p = 0.010; 24 months: 5.84 (. sd. 10.23) vs 9.60 (. sd. 14.43) vs 13.12 (. sd. 17.43), p = 0.004). When adjusting for confounding variables, including age and gender, the greatest improvement was seen in the low-offset group, with the normal-offset group demonstrating more improvement than the high-offset group. . Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:36–42

Down’s syndrome is associated with a number of musculoskeletal abnormalities, some of which predispose patients to early symptomatic arthritis of the hip. The purpose of the present study was to review the general and hip-specific factors potentially compromising total hip replacement (THR) in patients with Down’s syndrome, as well as to summarise both the surgical techniques that may anticipate the potential adverse impact of these factors and the clinical results reported to date. A search of the literature was performed, and the findings further informed by the authors’ clinical experience, as well as that of the hip replacement in Down Syndrome study group. The general factors identified include a high incidence of ligamentous laxity, as well as associated muscle hypotonia and gait abnormalities. Hip-specific factors include: a high incidence of hip dysplasia, as well as a number of other acetabular, femoral and combined femoroacetabular anatomical variations. Four studies encompassing 42 hips, which reported the clinical outcomes of THR in patients with Down’s syndrome, were identified. All patients were successfully treated with standard acetabular and femoral components. The use of supplementary acetabular screw fixation to enhance component stability was frequently reported. The use of constrained liners to treat intra-operative instability occurred in eight hips. Survival rates of between 81% and 100% at a mean follow-up of 105 months (6 to 292) are encouraging. Overall, while THR in patients with Down’s syndrome does present some unique challenges, the overall clinical results are good, providing these patients with reliable pain relief and good function. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B, Supple A:41–5

Restoration of leg length and offset is an important goal in total hip replacement. This paper reports a calliper-based technique to help achieve these goals by restoring the location of the centre of the femoral head. This was validated first by using a co-ordinate measuring machine to see how closely the calliper technique could record and restore the centre of the femoral head when simulating hip replacement on Sawbone femur, and secondly by using CT in patients undergoing hip replacement. Results from the co-ordinate measuring machine showed that the centre of the femoral head was predicted by the calliper to within 4.3 mm for offset (mean 1.6 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.4 to 2.8)) and 2.4 mm for vertical height (mean -0.6 (95% CI -1.4 to 0.2)). The CT scans showed that offset and vertical height were restored to within 8 mm (mean -1 (95% CI -2.1 to 0.6)) and -14 mm (mean 4 (95% CI 1.8 to 4.3)), respectively. Accurate assessment and restoration of the centre of the femoral head is feasible with a calliper. It is quick, inexpensive, simple to use and can be applied to any design of femoral component

Aims

It has been suggested that cemented fixation of total hip arthroplasty (THA) is associated with an increased peri-operative mortality compared with cementless THA. Our aim was to investigate this through a nationwide matched cohort study adjusting for age, comorbidity, and socioeconomic background.

Large-head metal-on-metal (MoM) total hip replacements (THR) have given rise to concern. Comparative studies of small-head MoM THRs over a longer follow-up period are lacking. Our objective was to compare the incidence of complications such as infection, dislocation, revision, adverse local tissue reactions, mortality and radiological and clinical outcomes in small-head (28 mm) MoM and ceramic-on-polyethylene (CoP) THRs up to 12 years post-operatively.

A prospective cohort study included 3341 THRs in 2714 patients. The mean age was 69.1 years (range 24 to 98) and 1848 (55.3%) were performed in women, with a mean follow-up of 115 months (18 to 201). There were 883 MoM and 2458 CoP bearings. Crude incidence rates (cases/1000 person-years) were: infection 1.3 vs 0.8; dislocation 3.3 vs 3.1 and all-cause revision 4.3 vs 2.2, respectively. There was a significantly higher revision rate after ten years (adjusted hazard ratio 9.4; 95% CI 2.6 to 33.6) in the MoM group, and ten of 26 patients presented with an adverse local tissue reaction at revision. No differences in mortality, osteolysis or clinical outcome were seen.

In conclusion, we found similar results for small-head MoM and CoP bearings up to ten years post-operatively, but after ten years MoM THRs had a higher risk of all-cause revision. Furthermore, the presence of an adverse response to metal debris seen in the small-head MOM group at revision is a cause for concern.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014; 96-B:868–75.

Between 1999 and 2001, 90 patients underwent total hip replacement using the same uncemented acetabular and femoral components with a 28 mm metallic femoral head but with prospective randomisation of the acetabular liner to either Durasul highly cross-linked polyethylene or nitrogen-sterilised Sulene polyethylene. We assessed 83 patients at a minimum follow-up of ten years. Linear penetration of the femoral head was estimated at six weeks, six and 12 months and annually thereafter, using the Dorr method, given the non-spherical shape of the acetabular component.

There was no loosening of any component; only one hip in the Sulene group showed proximal femoral osteolysis. The mean penetration of the femoral head at six weeks was 0.08 mm (0.02 to 0.15) for the Durasul group and 0.16 mm (0.05 to 0.28) for the Sulene group (p = 0.001). The mean yearly linear penetration was 64.8% lower for the Durasul group at 0.05 mm/year (sd 0.035) for the Sulene group and 0.02 mm/year (sd 0.016) for the Durasul (p < 0.001). Mean linear femoral head penetration at ten years was 61% less in the Durasul than Sulene group. Highly cross-linked polyethylene gives excellent results at ten years.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:326–32.

Aims. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are common orthopaedic procedures requiring postoperative radiographs to confirm implant positioning and identify complications. Artificial intelligence (AI)-based image analysis has the potential to automate this postoperative surveillance. The aim of this study was to prepare a scoping review to investigate how AI is being used in the analysis of radiographs following THA and TKA, and how accurate these tools are. Methods. The Embase, MEDLINE, and PubMed libraries were systematically searched to identify relevant articles. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews and Arksey and O’Malley framework were followed. Study quality was assessed using a modified Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies tool. AI performance was reported using either the area under the curve (AUC) or accuracy. Results. Of the 455 studies identified, only 12 were suitable for inclusion. Nine reported implant identification and three described predicting risk of implant failure. Of the 12, three studies compared AI performance with orthopaedic surgeons. AI-based implant identification achieved AUC 0.992 to 1, and most algorithms reported an accuracy > 90%, using 550 to 320,000 training radiographs. AI prediction of dislocation risk post-THA, determined after five-year follow-up, was satisfactory (AUC 76.67; 8,500 training radiographs). Diagnosis of hip implant loosening was good (accuracy 88.3%; 420 training radiographs) and measurement of postoperative acetabular angles was comparable to humans (mean absolute difference 1.35° to 1.39°). However, 11 of the 12 studies had several methodological limitations introducing a high risk of bias. None of the studies were externally validated. Conclusion. These studies show that AI is promising. While it already has the ability to analyze images with significant precision, there is currently insufficient high-level evidence to support its widespread clinical use. Further research to design robust studies that follow standard reporting guidelines should be encouraged to develop AI models that could be easily translated into real-world conditions. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(8):929–937

Aims. Achieving accurate implant positioning and restoring native hip biomechanics are key surgeon-controlled technical objectives in total hip arthroplasty (THA). The primary objective of this study was to compare the reproducibility of the planned preoperative centre of hip rotation (COR) in patients undergoing robotic arm-assisted THA versus conventional THA. Methods. This prospective randomized controlled trial (RCT) included 60 patients with symptomatic hip osteoarthritis undergoing conventional THA (CO THA) versus robotic arm-assisted THA (RO THA). Patients in both arms underwent pre- and postoperative CT scans, and a patient-specific plan was created using the robotic software. The COR, combined offset, acetabular orientation, and leg length discrepancy were measured on the pre- and postoperative CT scanogram at six weeks following surgery. Results. There were no significant differences for any of the baseline characteristics including spinopelvic mobility. The absolute error for achieving the planned horizontal COR was median 1.4 mm (interquartile range (IQR) 0.87 to 3.42) in RO THA versus 4.3 mm (IQR 3 to 6.8; p < 0.001); vertical COR mean 0.91 mm (SD 0.73) in RO THA versus 2.3 mm (SD 1.3; p < 0.001); and combined offset median 2 mm (IQR 0.97 to 5.45) in RO THA versus 3.9 mm (IQR 2 to 7.9; p = 0.019). Improved accuracy was observed with RO THA in achieving the desired acetabular component positioning (root mean square error for anteversion and inclination was 2.6 and 1.3 vs 8.9 and 5.3, repectively) and leg length (mean 0.6 mm vs 1.4 mm; p < 0.001). Patient-reported outcome measures were comparable between the two groups at baseline and one year. Participants in the RO THA group needed fewer physiotherapy sessions postoperatively (median six (IQR 4.5 to 8) vs eight (IQR 6 to 11; p = 0.005). Conclusion. This RCT suggested that robotic-arm assistance in THA was associated with improved accuracy in restoring the native COR, better preservation of the combined offset, leg length correction, and superior accuracy in achieving the desired acetabular component positioning. Further evaluation through long-term and registry data is necessary to assess whether these findings translate into improved implant survival and functional outcomes. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(4):324–335

Aims. Recent improvements in surgical technique and perioperative blood management after total joint replacement (TJR) have decreased rates of transfusion. However, as many surgeons transition to outpatient TJR, obtaining routine postoperative blood tests becomes more challenging. Therefore, we sought to determine if a preoperative outpatient assessment tool that stratifies patients based on numerous medical comorbidities could predict who required postoperative haemoglobin (Hb) measurement. Methods. We performed a prospective study of consecutive unilateral primary total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) and total hip arthroplasties (THAs) performed at a single institution. Prospectively collected data included preoperative and postoperative Hb levels, need for blood transfusion, length of hospital stay, and Outpatient Arthroplasty Risk Assessment (OARA) score. Results. A total of 504 patients met inclusion criteria. Mean age at time of arthroplasty was 65.3 years (SD 10.2). Of the patients, 216 (42.9%) were THAs and 288 (57.1%) were TKAs. Six patients required a blood transfusion postoperatively (1.19%). Transfusion after surgery was associated with lower postoperative day 1 Hb (median of 8.5 (interquartile range (IQR) 7.9 to 8.6) vs 11.3 (IQR 10.4 to 12.2); p < 0.001), longer length of stay (1 day (IQR 1 to 1) vs 2 days (IQR 2 to 3); p < 0.001), higher OARA score (median of 60.0 (IQR 40 to 75) vs 5.0 (IQR 0-35); p = 0.001), and total hip arthroplasty (p < 0.001). All patients who received a transfusion had an OARA score > 34; however, this did not reach statistical significance as a screening threshold. Conclusion. Risk of blood transfusion after primary TJR was uncommon in our series, with an incidence of 1.19%. Transfusion was associated with OARA scores > 60. The OARA score, not American Society of Anesthesiologists grade, reliably identified patients at risk for postoperative blood transfusion. Selective Hb monitoring may result in substantial cost savings in the era of cost containment. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(1):65–70

Aims. The primary objective of this study was to develop a validated classification system for assessing iatrogenic bone trauma and soft-tissue injury during total hip arthroplasty (THA). The secondary objective was to compare macroscopic bone trauma and soft-tissues injury in conventional THA (CO THA) versus robotic arm-assisted THA (RO THA) using this classification system. Methods. This study included 30 CO THAs versus 30 RO THAs performed by a single surgeon. Intraoperative photographs of the osseous acetabulum and periacetabular soft-tissues were obtained prior to implantation of the acetabular component, which were used to develop the proposed classification system. Interobserver and intraobserver variabilities of the proposed classification system were assessed. Results. The BOne trauma and Soft-Tissue Injury classification system in total Hip arthroplasty (BOSTI Hip) grades osseous acetabular trauma and periarticular muscle damage during THA. The classification system has an interclass correlation coefficient of 0.90 (95% CI 0.86 to 0.93) for interobserver agreement and 0.89 (95% CI 0.84 to 0.93) for intraobserver agreement. RO THA was associated with improved BOSTI Hip scores (p = 0.002) and more pristine osseous surfaces in the anterior superior (p = 0.001) and posterior superior (p < 0.001) acetabular quadrants compared with CO THA. There were no differences between the groups in relation to injury to the gluteus medius (p = 0.084), obturator internus (p = 0.241), piriformis (p = 0.081), superior gamellus (p = 0.116), inferior gamellus (p = 0.132), quadratus femoris (p = 0.208), and vastus lateralis (p = 0.135), but overall combined muscle injury was reduced in RO THA compared with CO THA (p = 0.023). Discussion. The proposed BOSTI Hip classification provides a reproducible grading system for stratifying iatrogenic bone trauma and soft-tissue injury during THA. RO THA was associated with improved BOSTI Hip scores, more pristine osseous acetabular surfaces, and reduced combined periarticular muscle injury compared with CO THA. Further research is required to understand if these intraoperative findings translate to differences in clinical outcomes between the treatment groups. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(9):898–906

Aims. A significant reduction in wear at five and ten years was previously reported when comparing Durasul highly cross-linked polyethylene with nitrogen-sterilized Sulene polyethylene in total hip arthroplasty (THA). We investigated whether the improvement observed at the earlier follow-up continued, resulting in decreased osteolysis and revision surgery rates over the second decade. Methods. Between January 1999 and December 2001, 90 patients underwent surgery using the same acetabular and femoral components with a 28 mm metallic femoral head and either a Durasul or Sulene liner. A total of 66 hips of this prospective randomized study were available for a minimum follow-up of 20 years. The linear femoral head penetration rate was measured at six weeks, one year, and annually thereafter, using the Dorr method on digitized radiographs with a software package. Results. In the Durasul group, no patients underwent revision due to loosening or showed radiological evidence of osteolysis. In the Sulene group, four patients (four hips) were revised due to femoral component loosening. The 20-year cumulative failure incidence in the presence of the competing event of death for revision surgery was 4.5% (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.8 to 13.6) in the Durasul group, and 8.9% (95% CI 2.8 to 19.5) in the Sulene group. The mean wear one year after surgery was 0.09 mm (SD 0.007) in the Durasul group and 0.24 (SD 0.015) in the Sulene group (p < 0.001). From one to 20 years after surgery, the mean total penetration was 0.32 mm (SD 0.045) in the Durasul group and 1.07 mm (SD 0.13) in the Sulene group (p < 0.001). Mean femoral head penetration at 20 years was approximately 70.0% less in the Durasul group than the Sulene group. Conclusion. The significant reduction in femoral head penetration obtained with the Durasul compared with Sulene in uncemented THA resulted in lower osteolysis and revision rates after 20 years. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(9):1032–1038

Aims. Conventional patient-reported surveys, used for patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA), are limited by subjectivity and recall bias. Objective functional evaluation, such as gait analysis, to delineate a patient’s functional capacity and customize surgical interventions, may address these shortcomings. This systematic review endeavours to investigate the application of objective functional assessments in appraising individuals undergoing THA. Methods. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were applied. Eligible studies of THA patients that conducted at least one type of objective functional assessment both pre- and postoperatively were identified through Embase, Medline/PubMed, and Cochrane Central database-searching from inception to 15 September 2023. The assessments included were subgrouped for analysis: gait analysis, motion analysis, wearables, and strength tests. Results. A total of 130 studies using 15 distinct objective functional assessment methods (FAMs) were identified. The most frequently used method was instrumented gait/motion analysis, followed by the Timed-Up-and-Go test (TUG), 6 minute walk test, timed stair climbing test, and various strength tests. These assessments were characterized by their diagnostic precision and applicability to daily activities. Wearables were frequently used, offering cost-effectiveness and remote monitoring benefits. However, their accuracy and potential discomfort for patients must be considered. Conclusion. The integration of objective functional assessments in THA presents promise as a progress-tracking modality for improving patient outcomes. Gait analysis and the TUG, along with advancing wearable sensor technology, have the potential to enhance patient care, surgical planning, and rehabilitation. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(8):764–774

Aims. This study aimed to describe practice variation in the use of total hip arthroplasty (THA) for older patients with femoral neck fracture and to determine the association between patient, surgeon, and institution factors and treatment with THA. Methods. We performed a cross-sectional analysis of 49,597 patients aged 60 years and older from Ontario, Canada, who underwent hemiarthroplasty or THA for femoral neck fracture between 2002 and 2017. This population-based study used routinely collected healthcare databases linked through ICES (formerly known as the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences). Multilevel logistic regression modelling was used to quantify the association between patient, surgeon, and institution-level variables and whether patients were treated with THA. Variance partition coefficient and median odds ratios were used to estimate the variation attributable to higher-level variables and the magnitude of effect of higher-level variables, respectively. Results. Over the study period, 9.4% of patients (n = 4,638) were treated with THA. Patient factors associated with higher likelihood of treatment by THA included: younger age, male sex, and diagnosis with rheumatoid arthritis. Long-term care residence, use of home care services prior to hip fracture, diagnosis of dementia, higher comorbidity burden, and the most marginalized group were negatively associated with treatment by THA. Treating surgeon and institution accounted for 54.2% and 17.8% of the total variation in treatment with THA, respectively. Surgeon volume of THA procedures in the 365 days prior to surgery was the strongest higher-level predictor of treatment with THA. Specific treating surgeons and institutions still accounted for significant proportions of the variability in treatment with THA (40.3% and 19.5% of total observed variation, respectively) after controlling for available patient, surgeon, and institution-level variables. Conclusion. The strongest predictors for treatment of patients with femoral neck fracture with THA were patient age, treating surgeon, and treating institution. This practice variation highlights differential access to care for patients. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(2):180–189

Aims. The aims of this systematic review were to assess the learning curve of semi-active robotic arm-assisted total hip arthroplasty (rTHA), and to compare the accuracy, patient-reported functional outcomes, complications, and survivorship between rTHA and manual total hip arthroplasty (mTHA). Methods. Searches of PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar were performed in April 2020 in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis statement. Search terms included “robotic”, “hip”, and “arthroplasty”. The criteria for inclusion were published clinical research articles reporting the learning curve for rTHA (robotic arm-assisted only) and those comparing the implantation accuracy, functional outcomes, survivorship, or complications with mTHA. Results. There were 501 articles initially identified from databases and references. Following full text screening, 17 articles that satisfied the inclusion criteria were included. Four studies reported the learning curve of rTHA, 13 studies reported on implant positioning, five on functional outcomes, ten on complications, and four on survivorship. The meta-analysis showed a significantly greater number of cases of acetabular component placement in the safe zone compared with the mTHA group (95% confidence interval (CI) 4.10 to 7.94; p < 0.001) and that rTHA resulted in a significantly better Harris Hip Score compared to mTHA in the short- to mid-term follow-up (95% CI 0.46 to 5.64; p = 0.020). However, there was no difference in infection rates, dislocation rates, overall complication rates, and survival rates at short-term follow-up. Conclusion. The learning curve of rTHA was between 12 and 35 cases, which was dependent on the assessment goal, such as operating time, accuracy, and team working. Robotic arm-assisted total hip arthroplasty was associated with improved accuracy of component positioning and functional outcome, however no difference in complication rates or survival were observed at short- to mid-term follow-up. Overall, there remains an absence of high-quality level I evidence and cost analysis comparing rTHA and mTHA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(6):1009–1020

Aims. The aim of this study was to evaluate the survival of a collarless, straight, hydroxyapatite-coated femoral stem in total hip arthroplasty (THA) at a minimum follow-up of 20 years. Methods. We reviewed the results of 165 THAs using the Omnifit HA system in 138 patients, performed between August 1993 and December 1999. The mean age of the patients at the time of surgery was 46 years (20 to 77). Avascular necrosis was the most common indication for THA, followed by ankylosing spondylitis and primary osteoarthritis. The mean follow-up was 22 years (20 to 31). At 20 and 25 years, 113 THAs in 91 patients and 63 THAs in 55 patients were available for review, respectively, while others died or were lost to follow-up. Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed to evaluate the survival of the stem. Radiographs were reviewed regularly, and the stability of the stem was evaluated using the Engh classification. Results. A total of seven stems (4.2%) were revised during the study period: one for aseptic loosening, three for periprosthetic fracture, two for infection, and one for recurrent dislocation. At 20 years, survival with revision of the stem for any indication and for aseptic loosening as the endpoint was 96.0% (95% confidence interval (CI) 92.6 to 99.5) and 98.4% (95% CI 96.2 to 100), respectively. At 25 years, the corresponding rates of survival were 94.5% (95% CI 89.9 to 99.3) and 98.1% (95% CI 95.7 to 99.6), respectively. There was radiological evidence of stable bony fixation in 86 stems (76.1%) and evidence of loosening in four (3.5%) at 20 years. All patients with radiological evidence of loosening were asymptomatic. Conclusion. The Omnifit HA femoral stem offered promising long-term survival into the third decade. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(3 Supple A):110–114

Aims. Femoral component anteversion is an important factor in the success of total hip arthroplasty (THA). This retrospective study aimed to investigate the accuracy of femoral component anteversion with the Mako THA system and software using the Exeter cemented femoral component, compared to the Accolade II cementless femoral component. Methods. We reviewed the data of 30 hips from 24 patients who underwent THA using the posterior approach with Exeter femoral components, and 30 hips from 24 patients with Accolade II components. Both groups did not differ significantly in age, sex, BMI, bone quality, or disease. Two weeks postoperatively, CT images were obtained to measure acetabular and femoral component anteversion. Results. The mean difference in femoral component anteversion between intraoperative and postoperative CT measurements (system accuracy of component anteversion) was 0.8° (SD 1.8°) in the Exeter group and 2.1° (SD 2.3°) in the Accolade II group, respectively (p = 0.020). The mean difference in anteversion between the plan and the postoperative CT measurements (clinical accuracy of femoral component anteversion) was 1.2° (SD 3.6°) in the Exeter group, and 4.2° (SD 3.9°) in the Accolade II group (p = 0.003). No significant differences were found in acetabular component inclination and anteversion; however, the clinical accuracy of combined anteversion was significantly better in the Exeter group (0.6° (SD 3.9°)) than the Accolade II group (3.6° (SD 4.1°)). Conclusion. The Mako THA system and software helps surgeons control the femoral component anteversion to achieve the target angle of insertion. The Exeter femoral component, inserted using Mako THA system, showed greater precision for femoral component and combined component anteversion than the Accolade II component. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(3 Supple A):104–109

Aims. Professional dancers represent a unique patient population in the setting of hip arthroplasty, given the high degree of hip strength and mobility required by their profession. We sought to determine the clinical outcomes and ability to return to professional dance after total hip arthroplasty (THA) or hip resurfacing arthroplasty (HRA). Methods. Active professional dancers who underwent primary THA or HRA at a single institution with minimum one-year follow-up were included in the study. Primary outcomes included the rate of return to professional dance, three patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) (modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement (HOOS-JR), and Lower Extremity Activity Scale (LEAS)), and postoperative complications. Results. A total of 49 hips in 39 patients (mean age 56 years (SD 13); 80% female (n = 39)) were included. Mean follow-up was 4.9 years (SD 5.1). Of these 49 hips, 37 THAs and 12 HRAs were performed. In all, 96% of hips returned to professional dance activities postoperatively. With regard to PROMs, there were statistically significant improvements in mHHS, HOOS-JR, and LEAS from baseline to ≥ one year postoperatively. There were complications in 7/49 hips postoperatively (14%), five of which required revision surgery (10%). There were no revisions for instability after the index procedure. Two complications (5.4%) occurred in hips that underwent THA compared with five (42%) after HRA (p = 0.007), though the difference by procedure was not significantly different when including only contemporary implant designs (p = 0.334). Conclusion. Active professional dancers experienced significant improvements in functional outcome scores after THA or HRA, with a 96% rate of return to professional dance. However, the revision rate at short- to mid-term follow-up highlights the challenges of performing hip arthroplasty in this demanding patient population. Further investigation is required to determine the results of THA versus HRA using contemporary implant designs in these patients. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(3 Supple A):17–23

Aims. Postoperative length of stay (LOS) and discharge dispositions following arthroplasty can be used as surrogate measurements for improvements in patients’ pathways and costs. With the increasing use of robotic technology in arthroplasty, it is important to assess its impact on LOS. The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with decreased LOS following robotic arm-assisted total hip arthroplasty (RO THA) compared with the conventional technique (CO THA). Methods. This large-scale, single-institution study included 1,607 patients of any age who underwent 1,732 primary THAs for any indication between May 2019 and January 2023. The data which were collected included the demographics of the patients, LOS, type of anaesthetic, the need for treatment in a post-anaesthesia care unit (PACU), readmission within 30 days, and discharge disposition. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to identify factors and the characteristics of patients which were associated with delayed discharge. Results. The multivariate model identified that age, female sex, admission into a PACU, American Society of Anesthesiologists grade > II, and CO THA were associated with a significantly higher risk of a LOS of > two days. The median LOS was 54 hours (interquartile range (IQR) 34 to 78) in the RO THA group compared with 60 hours (IQR 51 to 100) in the CO THA group (p < 0.001). The discharge dispositions were comparable between the two groups. A higher proportion of patients undergoing CO THA required PACU admission postoperatively, although without reaching statistical significance (7.2% vs 5.2%, p = 0.238). Conclusion. We found that among other baseline characteristics and comorbidities, RO THA was associated with a significantly shorter LOS, with no difference in discharge destination. With the increasing demand for THA, these findings suggest that robotic assistance in THA could reduce costs. However, randomized controlled trials are required to investigate the cost-effectiveness of this technology. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(3 Supple A):24–30

Aims. The aim of this study was to evaluate the reliability and validity of a patient-specific algorithm which we developed for predicting changes in sagittal pelvic tilt after total hip arthroplasty (THA). Methods. This retrospective study included 143 patients who underwent 171 THAs between April 2019 and October 2020 and had full-body lateral radiographs preoperatively and at one year postoperatively. We measured the pelvic incidence (PI), the sagittal vertical axis (SVA), pelvic tilt, sacral slope (SS), lumbar lordosis (LL), and thoracic kyphosis to classify patients into types A, B1, B2, B3, and C. The change of pelvic tilt was predicted according to the normal range of SVA (0 mm to 50 mm) for types A, B1, B2, and B3, and based on the absolute value of one-third of the PI-LL mismatch for type C patients. The reliability of the classification of the patients and the prediction of the change of pelvic tilt were assessed using kappa values and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), respectively. Validity was assessed using the overall mean error and mean absolute error (MAE) for the prediction of the change of pelvic tilt. Results. The kappa values were 0.927 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.861 to 0.992) and 0.945 (95% CI 0.903 to 0.988) for the inter- and intraobserver reliabilities, respectively, and the ICCs ranged from 0.919 to 0.997. The overall mean error and MAE for the prediction of the change of pelvic tilt were -0.3° (SD 3.6°) and 2.8° (SD 2.4°), respectively. The overall absolute change of pelvic tilt was 5.0° (SD 4.1°). Pre- and postoperative values and changes in pelvic tilt, SVA, SS, and LL varied significantly among the five types of patient. Conclusion. We found that the proposed algorithm was reliable and valid for predicting the standing pelvic tilt after THA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(1):19–27

Aims. The aim of this study was to compare the early postoperative mortality and morbidity in older patients with a fracture of the femoral neck, between those who underwent total hip arthroplasty (THA) and those who underwent hemiarthroplasty. Methods. This nationwide, retrospective cohort study used data from the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination database. We included older patients (aged ≥ 60 years) who underwent THA or hemiarthroplasty after a femoral neck fracture, between July 2010 and March 2022. A total of 165,123 patients were included. The THA group was younger (mean age 72.6 (SD 8.0) vs 80.7 years (SD 8.1)) and had fewer comorbidities than the hemiarthroplasty group. Patients with dementia or malignancy were excluded because they seldom undergo THA. The primary outcome measures were mortality and complications while in hospital, and secondary outcomes were readmission and reoperation within one and two years after discharge, and the costs of hospitalization. We conducted an instrumental variable analysis (IVA) using differential distance as a variable. Results. The IVA analysis showed that the THA group had a significantly higher rate of complications while in hospital (risk difference 6.3% (95% CI 2.0 to 10.6); p = 0.004) than the hemiarthroplasty group, but there was no significant difference in the rate of mortality while in hospital (risk difference 0.3% (95% CI -1.7 to 2.2); p = 0.774). There was no significant difference in the rate of readmission (within one year: risk difference 1.3% (95% CI -1.9 to 4.5); p = 0.443; within two years: risk difference 0.1% (95% CI -3.2 to 3.4); p = 0.950) and reoperation (within one year: risk difference 0.3% (95% CI -0.6 to 1.1); p = 0.557; within two years: risk difference 0.1% (95% CI -0.4 to 0.7); p = 0.632) after discharge. The costs of hospitalization were significantly higher in the THA group than in the hemiarthroplasty group (difference $2,634 (95% CI $2,496 to $2,772); p < 0.001). Conclusion. Among older patients undergoing surgery for a femoral neck fracture, the risk of early complications was higher after THA than after hemiarthroplasty. Our findings should aid in clinical decision-making in these patients. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(9):986–993

Aims. Excessive posterior pelvic tilt (PT) may increase the risk of anterior instability after total hip arthroplasty (THA). The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in PT occurring from the preoperative supine to postoperative standing position following THA, and identify factors associated with significant changes in PT. Methods. Supine PT was measured on preoperative CT scans and standing PT was measured on preoperative and one-year postoperative standing lateral radiographs in 933 patients who underwent primary THA. Negative values indicate posterior PT. Patients with > 13° of posterior PT from preoperative supine to postoperative standing (ΔPT ≤ -13°) radiographs, which corresponds to approximately a 10° increase in functional anteversion of the acetabular component, were compared with patients with less change (ΔPT > -13°). Logistic regression analysis was used to assess preoperative demographic and spinopelvic parameters predictive of PT changes of ≤ -13°. The area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) determined the diagnostic accuracy of the predictive factors. Results. PT changed from a mean of 3.8° (SD 6.0°)) preoperatively to -3.5° (SD 6.9°) postoperatively, a mean change of -7.4 (SD 4.5°; p < 0.001). A total of 95 patients (10.2%) had ≤ -13° change in PT from preoperative supine to postoperative standing. The strongest predictive preoperative factors of large changes in PT (≤ -13°) from preoperative supine to postoperative standing were a large posterior change in PT from supine to standing, increased supine PT, and decreased standing PT (p < 0.001). Flexed-seated PT (p = 0.006) and female sex (p = 0.045) were weaker significant predictive factors. When including all predictive factors, the accuracy of the AUC prediction was 84.9%, with 83.5% sensitivity and 71.2% specificity. Conclusion. A total of 10% of patients had > 13° of posterior PT postoperatively compared with their supine pelvic position, resulting in an increased functional anteversion of > 10°. The strongest predictive factors of changes in postoperative PT were the preoperative supine-to-standing differences, the anterior supine PT, and the posterior standing PT. Surgeons who introduce the acetabular component with the patient supine using an anterior approach should be aware of the potentially large increase in functional anteversion occurring in these patients. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(3 Supple A):74–80

Aims. Patients with femoral neck fractures (FNFs) treated with total hip arthroplasty (THA) have an almost ten-fold increased risk of dislocation compared to patients undergoing elective THA. The surgical approach influences the risk of dislocation. To date, the influence of differing head sizes and dual-mobility components (DMCs) on the risk of dislocation has not been well studied. Methods. In an observational cohort study on 8,031 FNF patients with THA between January 2005 and December 2014, Swedish Arthroplasty Register data were linked with the National Patient Register, recording the total dislocation rates at one year and revision rates at three years after surgery. The cumulative incidence of events was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Cox multivariable regression models were fitted to calculate adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the risk of dislocation, revision, or mortality, stratified by surgical approach. Results. The cumulative dislocation rate at one year was 8.3% (95% CI 7.3 to 9.3) for patients operated on using the posterior approach and 2.7% (95% CI 2.2 to 3.2) when using the direct lateral approach. In the posterior approach group, use of DMC was associated with reduced adjusted risk of dislocation compared to 32 mm heads (HR 0.21 (95% CI 0.07 to 0.68); p = 0.009). This risk was increased with head sizes < 32 mm (HR 1.47 (95% CI 1.10 to 1.98); p = 0.010). Neither DMC nor different head sizes influenced the risk of revision following the posterior approach. Neither articulation was associated with a statistically significantly reduced adjusted risk of dislocation in patients where the direct lateral approach was performed, although this risk was estimated to be HR 0.14 (95% CI 0.02 to 1.02; p = 0.053) after the use of DMC. DMC inserted through a direct lateral approach was associated with a reduced risk of revision for any reason versus THA with 32 mm heads (HR 0.36 (95% CI 0.13 to 0.99); p = 0.047). Conclusion. When using a posterior approach for THA in FNF patients, DMC reduces the risk of dislocation, while a non-significant risk reduction is seen for DMC after use of the direct lateral approach. The direct lateral approach is protective against dislocation and is also associated with a lower rate of revision at three years, compared to the posterior approach. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(7):844–851

Aims. Mechanical impingement of the iliopsoas (IP) tendon accounts for 2% to 6% of persistent postoperative pain after total hip arthroplasty (THA). The most common initiator is anterior acetabular component protrusion, where the anterior margin is not covered by anterior acetabular wall. A CT scan can be used to identify and measure this overhang; however, no threshold exists for determining symptomatic anterior IP impingement due to overhang. A case-control study was conducted in which CT scan measurements were used to define a threshold that differentiates patients with IP impingement from asymptomatic patients after THA. Methods. We analyzed the CT scans of 622 patients (758 THAs) between May 2011 and May 2020. From this population, we identified 136 patients with symptoms suggestive of IP impingement. Among them, six were subsequently excluded: three because the diagnosis was refuted intraoperatively, and three because they had another obvious cause of impingement, leaving 130 hips (130 patients) in the study (impingement) group. They were matched to a control group of 138 asymptomatic hips (138 patients) after THA. The anterior acetabular component overhang was measured on an axial CT slice based on anatomical landmarks (orthogonal to the pelvic axis). Results. The impingement group had a median overhang of 8 mm (interquartile range (IQR) 5 to 11) versus 0 mm (IQR 0 to 4) for the control group (p < 0.001). Using receiver operating characteristic curves, an overhang threshold of 4 mm was best correlated with a diagnosis of impingement (sensitivity 79%, specificity 85%; positive predictive value 75%, negative predictive value 85%). Conclusion. Pain after THA related to IP impingement can be reasonably linked to acetabular overhang if it exceeds 4 mm on a CT scan. Below this threshold, it seems logical to look for another cause of IP irritation or another reason for the pain after THA before concluding that impingement is present. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(3 Supple A):97–103

Aims. Osteoporosis can determine surgical strategy for total hip arthroplasty (THA), and perioperative fracture risk. The aims of this study were to use hip CT to measure femoral bone mineral density (BMD) using CT X-ray absorptiometry (CTXA), determine if systematic evaluation of preoperative femoral BMD with CTXA would improve identification of osteopenia and osteoporosis compared with available preoperative dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) analysis, and determine if improved recognition of low BMD would affect the use of cemented stem fixation. Methods. Retrospective chart review of a single-surgeon database identified 78 patients with CTXA performed prior to robotic-assisted THA (raTHA) (Group 1). Group 1 was age- and sex-matched to 78 raTHAs that had a preoperative hip CT but did not have CTXA analysis (Group 2). Clinical demographics, femoral fixation method, CTXA, and DXA data were recorded. Demographic data were similar for both groups. Results. Preoperative femoral BMD was available for 100% of Group 1 patients (CTXA) and 43.6% of Group 2 patients (DXA). CTXA analysis for all Group 1 patients preoperatively identified 13 osteopenic and eight osteoporotic patients for whom there were no available preoperative DXA data. Cemented stem fixation was used with higher frequency in Group 1 versus Group 2 (28.2% vs 14.3%, respectively; p = 0.030), and in all cases where osteoporosis was diagnosed, irrespective of technique (DXA or CTXA). Conclusion. Preoperative hip CT scans which are routinely obtained prior to raTHA can determine bone health, and thus guide femoral fixation strategy. Systematic preoperative evaluation with CTXA resulted in increased recognition of osteopenia and osteoporosis, and contributed to increased use of cemented femoral fixation compared with routine clinical care; in this small study, however, it did not impact short-term periprosthetic fracture risk. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(3):254–260

Aims. Despite higher rates of revision after total hip arthroplasty (THA) being reported for uncemented stems in patients aged > 75 years, they are frequently used in this age group. Increased mortality after cemented fixation is often used as a justification, but recent data do not confirm this association. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of the design of the stem and the type of fixation on the rate of revision and immediate postoperative mortality, focusing on the age and sex of the patients. Methods. A total of 333,144 patients with primary osteoarthritis (OA) of the hip who underwent elective THA between November 2012 and September 2022, using uncemented acetabular components without reconstruction shells, from the German arthroplasty registry were included in the study. The revision rates three years postoperatively for four types of stem (uncemented, uncemented with collar, uncemented short, and cemented) were compared within four age groups: < 60 years (Young), between 61 and 70 years (Mid-I), between 71 and 80 years (Mid-II), and aged > 80 years (Old). A noninferiority analysis was performed on the most frequently used designs of stem. Results. The design of the stem was found to have no significant influence on the rate of revision for either sex in the Young group. Uncemented collared stems had a significantly lower rate of revision compared with the other types of stem for females in the Mid-I group. There was a significantly higher rate of revision for uncemented stems in females in the Mid-II group compared with all other types of stem, while in males the rate for uncemented stems was only significantly higher than the rate for cemented stems. Cemented stems had a significantly lower revision rate compared with uncemented and short stems for both sexes in the Old cohort, as did females with collared stems. The rate of immediate postoperative mortality was similar for all types of stem in the Old age group, as were the American Society of Anesthesiologists grades. Conclusion. In patients aged > 80 years, uncemented and short stems had significantly higher revision rates compared with cemented and collared stems, especially in females. The design of the stem and type of fixation have to be analyzed in more detail than only considering cemented and uncemented fixation, in order to further improve the success of THA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(3 Supple A):130–136

Aims. Surgery is often delayed in patients who sustain a hip fracture and are treated with a total hip arthroplasty (THA), in order to await appropriate surgical expertise. There are established links between delay and poorer outcomes in all patients with a hip fracture, but there is little information about the impact of delay in the less frail patients who undergo THA. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of delayed surgery on outcomes in these patients. Methods. A retrospective cohort study was undertaken using data from the Scottish Hip Fracture Audit between May 2016 and December 2020. Only patients undergoing THA were included, with categorization according to surgical treatment within 36 hours of admission (≤ 36 hours = ‘acute group’ vs > 36 hours = ‘delayed’ group). Those with delays due to being “medically unfit” were excluded. The primary outcome measure was 30-day survival. Costs were estimated in relation to the differences in the lengths of stay. Results. A total of 1,375 patients underwent THA, with 397 (28.9%) having surgery delayed by > 36 hours. There were no significant differences in the age, sex, residence prior to admission, and Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation for those with, and those without, delayed surgery. Both groups had statistically similar 30-day (99.7% vs 99.3%; p = 0.526) and 60-day (99.2% vs 99.0%; p = 0.876) survival. There was, however, a significantly longer length of stay for the delayed group (acute: 7.0 vs delayed: 8.9 days; p < 0.001; overall: 8.7 vs 10.2 days; p = 0.002). Delayed surgery did not significantly affect the rates of 30-day readmission (p = 0.085) or discharge destination (p = 0.884). The results were similar following adjustment for potential confounding factors. The estimated additional cost due to delayed surgery was £1,178 per patient. Conclusion. Delayed surgery does not appear to be associated with increased mortality in patients with an intracapsular hip fracture who undergo THA, compared with those who are treated with a hemiarthroplasty or internal fixation. Those with delayed surgery, however, have a longer length of stay, with financial consequences. Clinicians must balance ethical considerations, the local provision of orthopaedic services, and optimization of outcomes when determining the need to delay surgery in a patient with a hip fracture awaiting THA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(11):1201–1205

Aims. Although CT is considered the benchmark to measure femoral version, 3D biplanar radiography (hipEOS) has recently emerged as a possible alternative with reduced exposure to ionizing radiation and shorter examination time. The aim of our study was to evaluate femoral stem version in postoperative total hip arthroplasty (THA) patients and compare the accuracy of hipEOS to CT. We hypothesize that there will be no significant difference in calculated femoral stem version measurements between the two imaging methods. Methods. In this study, 45 patients who underwent THA between February 2016 and February 2020 and had both a postoperative CT and EOS scan were included for evaluation. A fellowship-trained musculoskeletal radiologist and radiological technician measured femoral version for CT and 3D EOS, respectively. Comparison of values for each imaging modality were assessed for statistical significance. Results. Comparison of the mean postoperative femoral stem version measurements between CT and 3D hipEOS showed no significant difference (p = 0.862). In addition, the two version measurements were strongly correlated (r = 0.95; p < 0.001), and the mean paired difference in postoperative femoral version for CT scan and 3D biplanar radiography was -0.09° (95% confidence interval -1.09 to 0.91). Only three stem measurements (6.7%) were considered outliers with a > 5° difference. Conclusion. Our study supports the use of low-dose biplanar radiography for the postoperative assessment of femoral stem version after THA, demonstrating high correlation with CT. We found no significant difference for postoperative femoral version when comparing CT to 3D EOS. We believe 3D EOS is a reliable option to measure postoperative femoral version given its advantages of lower radiation dosage and shorter examination time. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(11):1196–1201

Aims. Oxidized zirconium (OxZi) and highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE) were developed to minimize wear and risk of osteolysis in total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, retrieval studies have shown that scratched femoral heads may lead to runaway wear, and few reports of long-term results have been published. The purpose of this investigation is to report minimum ten-year wear rates and clinical outcomes of THA with OxZi femoral heads on HXLPE, and to compare them with a retrospective control group of cobalt chrome (CoCr) or ceramic heads on HXLPE. Methods. From 2003 to 2006, 108 THAs were performed on 96 patients using an OxZi head with a HXLPE liner with minimum ten-year follow-up. Harris Hip Scores (HHS) were collected preoperatively and at the most recent follow-up (mean 13.3 years). Linear and volumetric liner wear was measured on radiographs of 85 hips with a minimum ten-year follow-up (mean 14.5 years). This was compared to a retrospective control group of 45 THAs using ceramic or CoCr heads from October 1999 to February 2005, with a minimum of ten years’ follow-up. Results. Average HHS improved from 50.8 to 91.9 and 51.0 to 89.8 in the OxZi group and control group, respectively (p = 0.644), with no osteolysis in either group. Linear and volumetric wear rates in the OxZi group averaged 0.03 mm/year and 3.46 mm. 3. /year, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in HHS scores, nor in linear or volumetric wear rate between the groups, and no revision for any indication. Conclusion. The radiological and clinical outcomes, and survivorship of THA with OxZi femoral heads and HXLPE liners, were excellent, and comparable to CoCr or ceramic heads at minimum ten-year follow-up. Wear rates are below what would be expected for development of osteolysis. OxZi-HXLPE is a durable bearing couple with excellent long-term outcomes. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(3 Supple A):38–43

Aims. Dual-mobility acetabular components (DMCs) have improved total hip arthroplasty (THA) stability in femoral neck fractures (FNFs). In osteoarthritis, the direct anterior approach (DAA) has been promoted for improving early functional results compared with the posterolateral approach (PLA). The aim of this study was to compare these two approaches in FNF using DMC-THA. Methods. A prospective continuous cohort study was conducted on patients undergoing operation for FNF using DMC by DAA or PLA. Functional outcome was evaluated using the Harris Hip Score (HHS) and Parker score at three months and one year. Perioperative complications were recorded, and radiological component positioning evaluated. Results. There were 50 patients in the DAA group and 54 in the PLA group. The mean HHS was 85.5 (SD 8.8) for the DAA group and 81.8 (SD 11.9) for the PLA group (p = 0.064). In all, 35 patients in the DAA group and 40 in the PLA group returned to their pre-fracture Parker score (p = 0.641) in both groups. No statistically significant differences between groups were found at one year regarding these two scores (p = 0.062 and p = 0.723, respectively). The DAA was associated with more intraoperative complications (p = 0.013). There was one dislocation in each group, and four revisions for DAA and one for PLA, but this difference was not statistically significant. There were also no significant differences regarding blood loss, length of stay, or operating time. Conclusion. In DMC-THA for FNF, DAA did not achieve better functional results than PLA, either at three months or at one year. Moreover, DAA presented an increased risk of intra-operative complications. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(5 Supple B):133–138

Aims. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a very successful and cost-effective operation, yet debate continues about the optimum fixation philosophy in different age groups. The concept of the 'cementless paradox' and the UK 'Getting it Right First Time' initiative encourage increased use of cemented fixation due to purported lower revision rates, especially in elderly patients, and decreased cost. Methods. In a high-volume, tertiary referral centre, we identified 10,112 THAs from a prospectively collected database, including 1,699 cemented THAs, 5,782 hybrid THAs, and 2,631 cementless THAs. The endpoint was revision for any reason. Secondary analysis included examination of implant survivorship in patients aged over 70 years, over 75 years, and over 80 years at primary THA. Results. Cemented fixation had the lowest implant survival in all age groups, with a total ten-year survivorship of 97.0% (95% confidence interval (CI) 95.8 to 97.8) in the cemented group, 97.6% (95% CI 96.9 to 98.1) in the hybrid group, and 97.9% (95% CI 96.9 to 98.6) in the cementless group. This was not statistically significant (p = 0.092). There was no age group where cemented fixation outperformed hybrid or cementless fixation. Conclusion. While all fixation techniques performed well at long-term follow-up, cemented fixation was associated with the lowest implant survival in all age groups, including in more elderly patients. We recommend that surgeons should carefully monitor their own outcomes and use fixation techniques that they are familiar with, and deliver the best outcomes in their own hands. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(2):206–211

Aims. We aimed to evaluate the long-term outcome of highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE) cemented acetabular components and assess whether any radiolucent lines (RLLs) which arose were progressive. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed 170 patients who underwent 187 total hip arthroplasties at two hospitals with a minimum follow-up of ten years. All interventions were performed using the same combination of HXLPE cemented acetabular components with femoral stems made of titanium alloy. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed for the primary endpoint of acetabular component revision surgery for any reason and secondary endpoint of the appearance of RLLs. RLLs that had appeared once were observed over time. We statistically assessed potential relationships between RLLs and a number of factors, including the technique of femoral head autografting and the Japanese Orthopaedic Association score. Results. The mean follow-up period was 13.0 years (10.0 to 16.3). Femoral head autografting was performed on 135 hips (72.2%). One acetabular component was retrieved because of deep infection. No revision was performed for the aseptic acetabular loosening. The Kaplan-Meier survival curve for the primary and secondary endpoints were 98.2% (95% confidence interval (CI) 88.6% to 99.8%) and 79.3% (95% CI 72.8% to 84.6%), respectively. RLLs were detected in 38 hips (21.2%), at a mean of 1.7 years (1 month to 6 years) postoperatively. None of the RLLs were progressive, and the presence of RLLs did not show a significant association with the survival and clinical score. RLLs were more frequently observed in hips without femoral head autografts than in those with autografts. Conclusion. The use of HXLPE cemented acetabular components in total hip arthroplasty demonstrated excellent clinical outcomes after ten years, and no RLLs were progressive, and their presence did not affect the outcome. Femoral head autografting did not negatively impact the acetabular component survival or the appearance of RLLs. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(10):1604–1610

Aims. Total hip arthroplasties (THAs) are performed by surgeons at various stages in training with varying levels of supervision, but we do not know if this is safe practice with comparable outcomes to consultant-performed THA. Our aim was to examine the association between surgeon grade, the senior supervision of trainees, and the risk of revision following THA. Methods. We performed an observational study using National Joint Registry (NJR) data. We included adult patients who underwent primary THA for osteoarthritis, recorded in the NJR between 2003 and 2016. Exposures were operating surgeon grade (consultant or trainee) and whether or not trainees were directly supervised by a scrubbed consultant. Outcomes were all-cause revision and the indication for revision up to ten years. We used methods of survival analysis, adjusted for patient, operation, and healthcare setting factors. Results. We included 603,474 THAs, of which 58,137 (9.6%) procedures were performed by a trainee. There was no association between surgeon grade and all-cause revision up to ten years (crude hazard ratio (HR) 1.00 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.94 to 1.07); p = 0.966), a finding which persisted with adjusted analysis. Fully adjusted analysis demonstrated an association between trainees operating without scrubbed consultant supervision and an increased risk of all-cause revision (HR 1.10 (95% CI 1.00 to 1.21); p = 0.045). There was an association between trainee-performed THA and revision for instability (HR 1.14 (95% CI 1.01 to 1.30); p = 0.039). However, this was not observed in adjusted models, or when trainees were supervised by a scrubbed consultant. Conclusion. Within the current training system in England and Wales, appropriately supervised trainees achieve comparable THA survival to consultants. Trainees who are supervised by a scrubbed consultant achieve superior outcomes compared to trainees who are not supervised by a scrubbed consultant, particularly in terms of revision for instability. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(3):341–351

Aims. Spinopelvic mobility plays an important role in functional acetabular component position following total hip arthroplasty (THA). The primary aim of this study was to determine if spinopelvic hypermobility persists or resolves following THA. Our second aim was to identify patient demographic or radiological factors associated with hypermobility and resolution of hypermobility after THA. Methods. This study investigated patients with preoperative posterior hypermobility, defined as a change in sacral slope (SS) from standing to sitting (ΔSS. stand-sit. ) ≥ 30°. Radiological spinopelvic parameters, including SS, pelvic incidence (PI), lumbar lordosis (LL), PI-LL mismatch, anterior pelvic plane tilt (APPt), and spinopelvic tilt (SPT), were measured on preoperative imaging, and at six weeks and a minimum of one year postoperatively. The severity of bilateral hip osteoarthritis (OA) was graded using Kellgren-Lawrence criteria. Results. A total of 136 patients were identified as having preoperative spinopelvic hypermobility. At one year after THA, 95% (129/136) of patients were no longer categorized as hypermobile on standing and sitting radiographs (ΔSS. stand-sit. < 30°). Mean ΔSS. stand-sit. decreased from 36.4° (SD 5.1°) at baseline to 21.4° (SD 6.6°) at one year (p < 0.001). Mean SS. seated. increased from baseline (11.4° (SD 8.8°)) to one year after THA by 11.5° (SD 7.4°) (p < 0.001), which correlates to an 8.5° (SD 5.5°) mean decrease in seated functional cup anteversion. Contralateral hip OA was the only radiological predictor of hypermobility persisting at one year after surgery. The overall reoperation rate was 1.5%. Conclusion. Spinopelvic hypermobility was found to resolve in the majority (95%) of patients one year after THA. The increase in SS. seated. was clinically significant, suggesting that current target recommendations for the hypermobile patient (decreased anteversion and inclination) should be revisited. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(12):1766–1773

Aims. The aim of this study was to determine whether total hip arthroplasty (THA) for chronic hip pain due to unilateral primary osteoarthritis (OA) has a beneficial effect on cognitive performance. Methods. A prospective cohort study was conducted with 101 patients with end-stage hip OA scheduled for THA (mean age 67.4 years (SD 9.5), 51.5% female (n = 52)). Patients were assessed at baseline as well as after three and months. Primary outcome was cognitive performance measured by d2 Test of Attention at six months, Trail Making Test (TMT), FAS-test, Rivermead Behavioural Memory Test (RBMT; story recall subtest), and Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test (ROCF). The improvement of cognitive performance was analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance. Results. At six months, there was significant improvement in attention, working speed and concentration (d2-test; p < 0.001), visual construction and visual memory (ROCF; p < 0.001), semantic memory (FAS-test; p = 0.009), verbal episodic memory (RBMT; immediate recall p = 0.023, delayed recall p = 0.026), as well as pain (p < 0.001) with small to large effect sizes. Attention, concentration, and visual as well as verbal episodic memory improved significantly with medium effect sizes over η. 2. partial. = 0.06. In these cognitive domains the within-group difference exceeded the minimum clinically important difference. Conclusion. THA is associated with clinically relevant postoperative improvement in the cognitive functions of attention, concentration, and memory. These data support the concept of a broad interaction of arthroplasty with central nervous system function. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(3):331–340

Aims. It is not known whether preservation of the capsule of the hip positively affects patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in total hip arthroplasty using the direct anterior approach (DAA-THA). A recent randomized controlled trial found no clinically significant difference at one year postoperatively. This study aimed to determine whether preservation of the anterolateral capsule and anatomical closure improve the outcome and revision rate, when compared with resection of the anterolateral capsule, at two years postoperatively. Methods. Two consecutive groups of patients whose operations were performed by the senior author were compared. The anterolateral capsule was resected in the first group of 430 patients between January 2012 and December 2014, and preserved and anatomically closed in the second group of 450 patients between July 2015 and December 2017. There were no other technical changes between the two groups. Patient characteristics, the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), and surgical data were collected from our database. PROM questionnaires, consisting of the Oxford Hip Score (OHS) and Core Outcome Measures Index (COMI-Hip), were collected two years postoperatively. Data were analyzed with generalized multiple regression analysis. Results. The characteristics, CCI, operating time, and length of stay were similar in both groups. There was significantly less blood loss in the capsular preservation group (p = 0.037). The revision rate (n = 3, (0.6%) in the resected group, and 1 (0.2%) in the preserved group) did not differ significantly (p = 0.295). Once adjusted for demographic and surgical factors, the preserved group had significantly worse PROMs: + 0.24 COMI-Hip (p < 0.001) and -1.6 OHS points (p = 0.017). However, the effect sizes were much smaller than the minimal clinically important differences (MCIDs) of 0.95 and 5, respectively). The date of surgery (influencing, for instance, the surgeon’s age) was not a significant factor. Conclusion. Based on the MCID, the lower PROMs in the capsular preservation group do not seem to have clinical relevance. They do not, however, confirm the expected benefit of capsular preservation reported for the posterolateral approach. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(7):826–832

Aims. We aimed to assess the cumulative risk of total hip arthroplasty (THA) from in situ fixation for slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) after a follow-up of almost 50 years. Methods. In this study, 138 patients with 172 affected hips treated with in situ fixation were evaluated retrospectively. A total of 97 patients (70%) were male and the mean age was 13.6 years (SD 2.1); 35 patients (25%) had a bilateral disease. The median follow-up time was 49 years (interquartile range 43 to 55). Basic demographic, stability, and surgical details were obtained from patient records. Preoperative radiographs (slip angle; SA) were measured, and data on THA was gathered from the Finnish National Arthroplasty Register. Results. The preoperative SA was a mean of 39° (SD 19°). At follow-up, 56 of the patients had undergone THA for a hip previously fixed in situ for SCFE (41%) and 64 of all affected hips had been replaced (37%). Kaplan-Meier analysis gave a median prosthesis-free postoperative survival of 55 years (95% confidence interval (CI) 45 to 64) for the affected hips. In a multivariate analysis, female patients had a two-fold risk for THA (hazard ratio (HR) 2.42 (95% CI 1.16 to 5.07)) and a greater preoperative SA increased the risk of THA (HR 1.03 for every increment of 1° (95% CI 1.01 to 1.05)), while patient age at surgery, slip laterality, stability of slip, or diagnostic delay did not have a statistically significant effect on the risk of THA. Conclusion. SCFE treated primarily with in situ fixation may lead to THA in more than 40% of affected hips at a near 50-year follow-up. This risk is approximately 15-times the reported lifetime risk in the Finnish general population. Female sex and increasing preoperative SA significantly predicted higher risk of THA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(12):1321–1326

Aims. The current study aimed to compare robotic arm-assisted (RA-THA), computer-assisted (CA-THA), and manual (M-THA) total hip arthroplasty regarding in-hospital metrics including length of stay (LOS), discharge disposition, in-hospital complications, and cost of RA-THA versus M-THA and CA-THA versus M-THA, as well as trends in use and uptake over a ten-year period, and future projections of uptake and use of RA-THA and CA-THA. Methods. The National Inpatient Sample was queried for primary THAs (2008 to 2017) which were categorized into RA-THA, CA-THA, and M-THA. Past and projected use, demographic characteristics distribution, income, type of insurance, location, and healthcare setting were compared among the three cohorts. In-hospital complications, LOS, discharge disposition, and in-hospital costs were compared between propensity score-matched cohorts of M-THA versus RA-THA and M-THA versus CA-THA to adjust for baseline characteristics and comorbidities. Results. RA-THA and CA-THA did not exhibit any clinically meaningful reduction in mean LOS (RA-THA 2.2 days (SD 1.4) vs 2.3 days (SD 1.8); p < 0.001, and CA-THA 2.5 days (SD 1.9) vs 2.7 days (SD 2.3); p < 0.001, respectively) compared to their respective propensity score-matched M-THA cohorts. RA-THA, but not CA-THA, had similar non-home discharge rates to M-THA (RA-THA 17.4% vs 18.5%; p = 0.205, and 18.7% vs 24.9%; p < 0.001, respectively). Implant-related mechanical complications were lower in RA-THA (RA-THA 0.5% vs M-THA 3.1%; p < 0.001, and CA-THA 1.2% vs M-THA 2.2%; p < 0.001), which was associated with a significantly lower in-hospital dislocation (RA-THA 0.1% vs M-THA 0.8%; p < 0.001). Both RA-THA and CA-THA demonstrated higher mean higher index in-hospital costs (RA-THA $18,416 (SD $8,048) vs M-THA $17,266 (SD $8,396); p < 0.001, and CA-THA $20,295 (SD $8,975) vs M-THA $18,624 (SD $9,226); p < 0.001, respectively). Projections indicate that 23.9% and 3.2% of all THAs conducted in 2025 will be robotic arm- and computer-assisted, respectively. Projections indicated that RA-THA use may overtake M-THA by 2028 (48.3%) and reach 65.8% of all THAs by 2030. Conclusion. Technology-assisted THA, particularly RA-THA, may provide value by lowering in-hospital early dislocation rates and and other in-hospital metrics compared to M-THA. Higher index-procedure and hospital costs warrant further comprehensive cost analyses to determine the true added value of RA-THA in the episode of care, particularly since we project that one in four THAs in 2025 and two in three THA by 2030 will use RA-THA technology. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(9):1488–1496

Aims. The aim of this study was to identify the minimal clinically important difference (MCID), minimal important change (MIC), minimal detectable change (MDC), and patient-acceptable symptom state (PASS) in the Forgotten Joint Score (FJS) according to patient satisfaction six months following total hip arthroplasty (THA) in a UK population. Methods. During a one-year period, 461 patients underwent a primary THA and completed preoperative and six-month FJS, with a mean age of 67.2 years (22 to 93). At six months, patient satisfaction was recorded as very satisfied, satisfied, neutral, dissatisfied, or very dissatisfied. The difference between patients recording neutral (n = 31) and satisfied (n = 101) was used to define the MCID. MIC for a cohort was defined as the change in the FJS for those patients declaring their outcome as satisfied, whereas receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to determine the MIC for an individual and the PASS. Distribution-based methodology was used to calculate the MDC. Results. Using satisfaction as the anchor, the MCID for the FJS was 8.1 (95% confidence interval (CI) 3.7 to 15.9; p = 0.040), which was affirmed when adjusting for confounding. The MIC for the FJS for a cohort of patients was 17.7 (95% CI 13.7 to 21.7) and for an individual patient was 18. The MDC90 for the FJS was eight, meaning that 90% of patients scoring more than this will have experienced a real change that is beyond measurement error. The PASS threshold for the FJS was defined as 29. Conclusion. The MCID and MIC can be used respectively to assess whether there is a clinical difference between two groups, or whether a cohort or patient has had a meaningful change in their FJS. Both values were greater than measurement error (MDC90), suggesting a real change. The PASS threshold for the postoperative FJS can be used as a marker of achieving patient satisfaction following THA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(12):1759–1765

Dislocation following total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a well-known and potentially devastating complication. Clinicians have used many strategies in attempts to prevent dislocation since the introduction of THA. While the importance of postoperative care cannot be ignored, particular emphasis has been placed on preoperative planning in the prevention of dislocation. The strategies have progressed from more traditional approaches, including modular implants, the size of the femoral head, and augmentation of the offset, to newer concepts, including patient-specific component positioning combined with computer navigation, robotics, and the use of dual-mobility implants. As clinicians continue to pursue improved outcomes and reduced complications, these concepts will lay the foundation for future innovation in THA and ultimately improved outcomes. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(1):8–11

Aims. Pelvic incidence (PI) is a position-independent spinopelvic parameter traditionally used by spinal surgeons to determine spinal alignment. Its relevance to the arthroplasty surgeon in assessing patient risk for total hip arthroplasty (THA) instability preoperatively is unclear. This study was undertaken to investigate the significance of PI relative to other spinopelvic parameter risk factors for instability to help guide its clinical application. Methods. Retrospective analysis was performed of a multicentre THA database of 9,414 patients with preoperative imaging (dynamic spinopelvic radiographs and pelvic CT scans). Several spinopelvic parameter measurements were made by engineers using advanced software including sacral slope (SS), standing anterior pelvic plane tilt (APPT), spinopelvic tilt (SPT), lumbar lordosis (LL), and PI. Lumbar flexion (LF) was determined by change in LL between standing and flexed-seated lateral radiographs. Abnormal pelvic mobility was defined as ∆SPT ≥ 20° between standing and flexed-forward positions. Sagittal spinal deformity (SSD) was defined as PI-LL mismatch > 10°. Results. PI showed a positive correlation with parameters of SS, SPT, and LL (r-value range 0.468 to 0.661). Patients with a higher PI value showed higher degrees of standing LL, likely as a compensatory measure to maintain sagittal spine balance. There was a positive correlation between LL and LF such that patients with less standing LL had decreased LF (r = 0.49). Similarly, there was a positive correlation between increased SSD and decreased LF (r = 0.54). PI in isolation did not show any significant correlation with lumbar (r = 0.04) or pelvic mobility (r = 0.02). The majority of patients (range 89.4% to 94.2%) had normal lumbar and pelvic mobility regardless of the PI value. Conclusion. The PI value alone is not indicative of either spinal or pelvic mobility, and thus in isolation may not be a risk factor for THA instability. Patients with SSD had higher rates of spinopelvic stiffness, which may be the mechanism by which PI relates to THA instability risk, but further clinical studies are required. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(3):352–358

Aims. In metal-on-polyethylene (MoP) total hip arthroplasty (THA), large metal femoral heads have been used to increase stability and reduce the risk of dislocation. The increased size of the femoral head can, however, lead to increased taper corrosion, with the release of metal ions and adverse reactions. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the size of the femoral head and the levels of metal ions in the blood in these patients. Methods. A total of 96 patients were enrolled at two centres and randomized to undergo MoP THA using either a 32 mm metal head or a femoral head of between 36 mm and 44 mm in size, being the largest possible to fit the thinnest available polyethylene insert. The levels of metal ions and patient-reported outcome measures (Oxford Hip Score, University of California, Los Angeles Activity Scale) were recorded at two and five years postoperatively. Results. At five years, the median levels of chromium, cobalt, and titanium were 0.5 μg/l (interquartile range (IQR) 0.50 to 0.62), 0.24 μg/l (IQR 0.18 to 0.30), and 1.16 μg/l (IQR 1.0 to 1.68) for the 32 mm group, and 0.5 μg/l (IQR 0.5 to 0.54), 0.23 μg/l (IQR 0.17 to 0.39), and 1.30 μg/l (IQR 1 to 2.05) for the 36 mm to 44 mm group, with no significant difference between the groups (p = 0.825, p = 1.000, p = 0.558). There were increased levels of metal ions at two years postoperatively in seven patients in the 32 mm group, compared with four in the 36 mm to 44 mm group, and at five years postoperatively in six patients in the 32 mm group, compared with seven in the 36 mm to 44 mm group. There was no significant difference in either the OHS (p = 0.665) or UCLA (p = 0.831) scores between patients with or without an increased level of metal ions. Conclusion. In patients who underwent MoP THA, we found no differences in the levels of metal ions five years postoperatively between those with a femoral head of 32 mm and those with a femoral head of between 36 mm and 44 mm, and no corrosion-related revisions. As taper corrosion can start after five years, there remains a need for longer-term studies investigating the relationship between the size of the femoral head size and corrosion in patients undergoing MoP THA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(3 Supple A):31–37

Aims. Lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) injury is a potential complication after the direct anterior approach for total hip arthroplasty (DAA-THA). The aim of this study was to determine how the location of the fasciotomy in DAA-THA affects LFCN injury. Methods. In this trial, 134 patients were randomized into a lateral fasciotomy (n = 67) or a conventional fasciotomy (n = 67) group. This study was a dual-centre, double-blind, prospective randomized controlled two-arm trial with parallel group design and a 1:1 allocation ratio. The primary endpoint was the presence of LFCN injury, which was determined by the presence of numbness, decreased sensation, tingling, jolt-like sensation, or pain over the lateral aspect of the thigh, excluding the surgical scar, using a patient-based questionnaire. The secondary endpoints were patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities osteoarthritis index (WOMAC), Japanese Orthopaedic Association Hip Disease Evaluation Questionnaire (JHEQ), and the Forgotten Joint Score-12 (FJS-12). Assessments were obtained three months after surgery. Results. The incidence of LFCN injury tended to be lower in the lateral fasciotomy group (p = 0.089). In the lateral fasciotomy group, there were no significant differences in the mean PROM scores between patients with and without LFCN injury (FJS-12: 54.42 (SD 15.77) vs 65.06 (SD 26.14); p = 0.074; JHEQ: 55.21 (SD 12.10) vs 59.72 (SD 16.50); p = 0.288; WOMAC: 82.45 (SD 6.84) vs 84.40 (SD 17.91); p = 0.728). In the conventional fasciotomy group, there were significant differences in FJS-12 and JHEQ between patients with and without LFCN injury (FJS-12: 43.21 (SD 23.08) vs 67.28 (SD 20.47); p < 0.001; JHEQ: 49.52 (SD 13.97) vs 59.59 (SD 15.18); p = 0.012); however, there was no significant difference in WOMAC (76.63 (SD 16.81) vs 84.16 (SD 15.94); p = 0.107). Conclusion. The incidence of LFCN injury at three months after THA was comparable between the lateral and conventional fasciotomy groups. Further studies are needed to assess the long-term effects of these approaches. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(12):1252–1258