Aims. Tranexamic acid (TXA) has been shown to reduce blood loss and transfusion requirements in patients undergoing orthopaedic surgery. There remains a lack of prospective evidence for the use of TXA in patients undergoing periacetabular osteotomy (PAO). The purpose of this study was to determine if intravenous (IV) TXA is effective in reducing calculated blood loss and transfusions after PAO. Methods. This was a single-centre prospective double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial of 81 patients aged 12 to 45 years undergoing elective PAO by a single surgeon. The intervention group (n = 40) received two doses of IV TXA of a maximum 1 g in each dose; the control group (n = 41) received two doses of 50 ml 0.9% saline IV. The primary outcome was perioperative calculated blood loss. Secondary outcomes included allogenic transfusions and six-week postoperative complications. Results. There were no differences in demographics or intraoperative variables between study groups. The TXA group demonstrated lower mean calculated blood loss (1,265 ml, (SD 321) vs 1,515 ml, (SD 394); p = 0.002) and lower frequency of allogenic transfusion (10%/n = 4 vs 37%/n = 15; p = 0.008). Regression analyses associated TXA use with significant reductions in calculated blood loss (p < 0.001) and transfusion (p = 0.007) after adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, preoperative haemoglobin, cell-saver volume, intraoperative mean arterial blood pressure, and operating time. No patients suffered venous thromboembolic complications. Conclusion. In this trial, IV TXA decreased postoperative calculated blood loss by 293 ml and reduced the frequency of allogenic transfusions by 73% (37% vs 10%) following PAO. TXA may be safe and effective for reducing blood loss in patients undergoing PAO. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(9):1151–1157

Aims. Tranexamic acid (TXA) has been shown to significantly reduce transfusion rates in primary total hip arthroplasties (THAs), but high-quality evidence is limited in the revision setting. The purpose of the current study was to compare the rate of blood transfusions and symptomatic venous thromboembolic events (VTEs) in a large cohort of revision THAs treated with or without intravenous (IV) TXA. Patients and Methods. We performed a retrospective review of 3264 revision THAs (2645 patients) between 2005 and 2014, of which 1142 procedures received IV TXA (1 g at incision and 1 g at closure). The mean age in the revision group with TXA was 65 years (28 to 95), with 579 female patients (51%). The mean age in the revision group treated without TXA was 67 years (21 to 98), with 1160 female patients (55%). Outcomes analyzed included rates of transfusion and symptomatic VTEs between procedures undertaken with and without TXA. These comparisons were performed for the overall cohort, as well as within cases subcategorized for aseptic or septic aetiologies. A propensity score was developed to minimize bias between groups and utilized age at revision THA, sex, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, preoperative anticoagulation, and year of surgery. Results. Tranexamic acid significantly and substantially reduced the rate of blood transfusions after revision THA overall from 54% to 26% (p < 0.001; adjusted relative risk (RR) 1.6; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.3 to 1.9), with a significant reduction in both aseptic (49% to 18%; p < 0.001) and septic (73% to 53%; p = 0.04) revisions. The rate of VTE was minimal overall, with three events (0.3%) in the TXA group and four events (0.2%) in the non-TXA group. There were no significant differences in VTE rates based on TXA use or aetiology of revision. Conclusion. Intravenous TXA significantly reduced transfusion rates during all-cause revision THAs, including a subgroup analysis of both aseptic and septic cohorts. Adjusted risk using propensity modelling showed no statistical difference in rates of VTEs between either group. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;100-B(6 Supple B):104–109

We have investigated the effect of using tranexamic acid (TXA) during peri-acetabular osteotomy (PAO) on peri-operative blood loss and blood transfusion requirements. In addition we analysed whether the use of TXA was associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) following this procedure. A consecutive series of 96 PAOs, performed by a single surgeon, were reviewed. A total of 48 patients received TXA and 48 did not. The TXA group received a continuous infusion of TXA at a rate of 10 mg/kg/h. The primary outcome measure was the requirement for blood transfusion. Secondary outcomes included total blood loss, the decrease in the level of haemoglobin in the blood, the length of hospital stay, and the complications of this treatment. The mean rate of transfusion was significantly lower in the TXA group (62.5% vs 12.5%, p < 0.001). The mean blood loss was also significantly reduced in the TXA group (1.9 L (standard deviation (. sd. ) 0.9) vs 1.5 L (. sd. 0.7), p < 0.01). No post-operative episodes of VTE were identified in either group. . The use of TXA reduced the blood loss and the rate of transfusion after PAO significantly, without adverse effects such as an increased rate of VTE. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:1604–7

We carried out a retrospective case-control study in 80 patients who underwent a revision total hip replacement. Group A (40 patients) received tranexamic acid and intra-operative cell salvage. Group B (40 patients) was a matched control group and did not receive this management. Each group was divided into four subgroups: revision of both components, revision of both components with bone grafting, revision of the acetabular component with or without bone graft, and revision of the femoral component with or without bone graft. In group A the total number of units transfused was 52, compared with 139 in group B, representing a reduction in blood usage of 62.5%. The mean amount of blood transfused from cell salvage in each group was 858 ml (113 to 2100), 477 ml (0 to 2680), 228 ml (75 to 315) and 464 ml (120 to 1125), respectively. There was a significant difference in the amount of blood returned between the groups (p < 0.0001). In group A, 22 patients needed transfusion and in group B, 37 (p < 0.0001). A cost analysis calculation showed a total revenue saving of £70 000 and a potential saving throughout our facility of £318 288 per year. Our results show that a significant reduction in blood transfusion can be made using combined cell salvage and tranexamic acid in revision surgery of the hip

We have reviewed prospective data on 1016 patients who underwent unilateral total hip replacement to establish the pre-operative risk factors associated with peri-operative blood transfusion. Most patients who required transfusion were older and were of lower weight, height, pre-operative haemoglobin level and body mass index than patients who were not transfused. Multivariate analysis revealed that only the pre-operative haemoglobin level and the patients weight were identified as significant independent factors increasing the need for transfusion (p < 0.001). A haemoglobin level below 12 g/dl was associated with a threefold increase in transfusion requirement

Autologous retransfusion and no-drainage are both blood-saving measures in total hip replacement (THR). A new combined intra- and post-operative autotransfusion filter system has been developed especially for primary THR, and we conducted a randomised controlled blinded study comparing this with no-drainage. A total of 204 THR patients were randomised to autologous blood transfusion (ABT) (n = 102) or no-drainage (n = 102). In the ABT group, a mean of 488 ml (. sd. 252) of blood was retransfused. The mean lowest post-operative haemoglobin level during the hospital stay was higher in the autotransfusion group (10.6 g/dl (7.8 to 13.9) vs 10.2 g/dl (7.5 to 13.3); p = 0.01). The mean haemoglobin levels for the ABT and no-drainage groups were not significantly different on the first day (11.3 g/dl (7.8 to 13.9) vs 11.0 g/dl (8.1 to 13.4); p = 0.07), the second day (11.1 g/dl (8.2 to 13.8) vs 10.8 g/dl (7.5 to 13.3); p = 0.09) or the third day (10.8 g/dl (8.0 to 13.0) vs 10.6 g/dl (7.5 to 14.1); p = 0.15). The mean total peri-operative net blood loss was 1464 ml (. sd. 505) in the ABT group and 1654 ml (. sd. 553) in the no-drainage group (p = 0.01). Homologous blood transfusions were needed in four patients (3.9%) in the ABT group and nine (8.8%) in the no-drainage group (p = 0.15). No statistically significant difference in adverse events was found between the groups. The use of a new intra- and post-operative autologous blood transfusion filter system results in less total blood loss and a smaller maximum decrease in haemoglobin levels than no-drainage following primary THR. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:616–22

Aims. The aim of this study was to compare open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with revision surgery for the surgical management of Unified Classification System (UCS) type B periprosthetic femoral fractures around cemented polished taper-slip femoral components following primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). Methods. Data were collected for patients admitted to five UK centres. The primary outcome measure was the two-year reoperation rate. Secondary outcomes were time to surgery, transfusion requirements, critical care requirements, length of stay, two-year local complication rates, six-month systemic complication rates, and mortality rates. Comparisons were made by the form of treatment (ORIF vs revision) and UCS type (B1 vs B2/B3). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed with two-year reoperation for any reason as the endpoint. Results. A total of 317 periprosthetic fractures (in 317 patients) with a median follow-up of 3.6 years (interquartile range (IQR) 2.0 to 5.4) were included. The fractures were type B1 in 133 (42.0%), B2 in 170 (53.6%), and B3 in 14 patients (4.4%). ORIF was performed in 167 (52.7%) and revision in 150 patients (47.3%). The two-year reoperation rate (15.3% vs 7.2%; p = 0.021), time to surgery (4.0 days (IQR 2.0 to 7.0) vs 2.0 days (IQR 1.0 to 4.0); p < 0.001), transfusion requirements (55 patients (36.7%) vs 42 patients (25.1%); p = 0.026), critical care requirements (36 patients (24.0%) vs seven patients (4.2%); p < 0.001) and two-year local complication rates (26.7% vs 9.0%; p < 0.001) were significantly higher in the revision group. The two-year rate of survival was significantly higher for ORIF (91.9% (standard error (SE) 0.023%) vs 83.9% (SE 0.031%); p = 0.032) compared with revision. For B1 fractures, the two-year reoperation rate was significantly higher for revision compared with ORIF (29.4% vs 6.0%; p = 0.002) but this was similar for B2 and B3 fractures (9.8% vs 13.5%; p = 0.341). The most common indication for reoperation after revision was dislocation (12 patients; 8.0%). Conclusion. Revision surgery has higher reoperation rates, longer surgical waiting times, higher transfusion requirements, and higher critical care requirements than ORIF in the management of periprosthetic fractures around polished taper-slip femoral components after THA. ORIF is a safe option providing anatomical reconstruction is achievable. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(2):124–134

Aims. Despite declining frequency of blood transfusion and electrolyte supplementation following total joint arthroplasty, postoperative blood analyses are still routinely ordered for these patients. This study aimed to determine the rate of blood transfusion and electrolyte restoration in arthroplasty patients treated with a perioperative blood conservation protocol and to identify risk factors that would predict the need for transfusion and electrolyte supplementation. Patients and Methods. Patients undergoing primary total joint arthroplasty of the hip or knee between July 2016 and February 2017 at a single institution were included in the study. Standard preoperative and postoperative laboratory data were collected and reviewed retrospectively. A uniform blood conservation programme was implemented for all patients. Need for blood transfusion or potassium supplementation was determined through a coordinated decision by the care team. Rates of transfusion and supplementation were observed, and patient risk factors were noted. Results. The overall rate of blood transfusion was 1.06% in the study population of 1132 total joint arthroplasties performed in 1023 patients. Of the 12 patients requiring transfusion, 11 were female, ten occurred in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty, and all 12 patients had a preoperative haemoglobin level less than 130 g/l. Operative duration and surgical blood loss were significantly greater in those patients requiring blood transfusion. Nearly all patients requiring transfusion had a history of, or risk factors for, cardiovascular disease. Potassium supplementation was required in 15.5% of the study cohort; 72% of these patients receiving potassium presented with a potassium level less than 4 mmol/l during preoperative testing, while the remaining 28% had a past medical history of either significant anaemia, cardiopulmonary, cardiovascular, or renal diseases that had required substantial medical management. Conclusion. A consistent blood-conserving perioperative strategy effectively minimized need for blood transfusion in total joint arthroplasty patients below previously reported rates in the literature. We suggest that postoperative full blood counts and basic metabolic panels should not routinely be ordered in these patients unless their preoperative haemoglobin and potassium is below 130 g/dl or 4 mmol/l respectively, and they have medical comorbidities

Aims. The aim of this study was to determine whether fixation, as opposed to revision arthroplasty, can be safely used to treat reducible Vancouver B type fractures in association with a cemented collarless polished tapered femoral stem (the Exeter). Methods. This retrospective cohort study assessed 152 operatively managed consecutive unilateral Vancouver B fractures involving Exeter stems; 130 were managed with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) and 22 with revision arthroplasty. Mean follow-up was 6.5 years (SD 2.6; 3.2 to 12.1). The primary outcome measure was revision of at least one component. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was performed. Regression analysis was used to identify risk factors for revision following ORIF. Secondary outcomes included any reoperation, complications, blood transfusion, length of hospital stay, and mortality. Results. Fractures (B1 n = 74 (49%); B2 n = 50 (33%); and B3 n = 28 (18%)) occurred at median of 4.2 years (interquartile range (IQR) 1.2 to 9.2) after primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) (n = 138) or hemiarthroplasty (n = 14). Rates of revision and reoperation were significantly higher following revision arthroplasty compared to ORIF for B2 (p = 0.001) and B3 fractures (p = 0.050). Five-year survival was significantly better following ORIF: 92% (95% confidence interval (CI) 86.4% to 97.4%) versus 63% (95% CI 41.7% to 83.3%), p < 0.001. ORIF was associated with reduced blood transfusion requirement and reoperations, but there were no differences in medical complications, hospital stay, or mortality between surgical groups. No independent predictors of revision following ORIF were identified: where the bone-cement interface was intact, fixation of B2 or B3 fractures was not associated with an increased risk of revision. Conclusion. When the bone-cement interface was intact and the fracture was anatomically reducible, all Vancouver B fractures around Exeter stems could be managed with fixation as opposed to revision arthroplasty. Fixation was associated with reduced need for blood transfusion and lower risk of revision surgery compared with revision arthroplasty. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(2):309–320

Aims. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) using the direct anterior approach (DAA) is undertaken with the patient in the supine position, creating an opportunity to replace both hips under one anaesthetic. Few studies have reported simultaneous bilateral DAA-THA. The aim of this study was to characterize a cohort of patients selected for this technique by a single, high-volume arthroplasty surgeon and to investigate their early postoperative clinical outcomes. Methods. Using an institutional database, we reviewed 643 patients who underwent bilateral DAA-THA by a single surgeon between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2018. The demographic characteristics of the 256 patients (39.8%) who underwent simultaneous bilateral DAA-THA were compared with the 387 patients (60.2%) who underwent staged THA during the same period of time. We then reviewed the length of stay, rate of discharge home, 90-day complications, and readmissions for the simultaneous bilateral group. Results. Patients undergoing simultaneous bilateral DAA-THA had a 3.5% transfusion rate, a 1.8 day mean length of stay, a 98.1% rate of discharge home, and low rates of 90-day infection (0.39%), dislocation (0.39%), periprosthetic fracture (0.77%), venous thromboembolism (0%), haematoma (0.39%), further surgery (0.77%), and readmission (0.77%). These patients were significantly younger (mean 58.2 years vs 62.5 years; p < 0.001), more likely to be male (60.3% vs 46.5%; p < 0.001), and with a trend towards having a lower mean BMI (27.8 kg/m. 2. vs 28.4 kg/m. 2. ; p = 0.071) than patients who underwent staged bilateral DAA-THA. Conclusion. Patients selected for simultaneous bilateral DAA-THA in a single surgeon’s practice had a 3% rate of postoperative transfusion and a low rate of complications, readmissions, and discharge to a rehabilitation facility. Simultaneous bilateral DAA-THA appears to be a reasonable and safe form of treatment for patients with bilateral symptomatic osteoarthritis of the hip when undertaken by an experienced arthroplasty surgeon with appropriate selection criteria. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7 Supple B):116–121

Aims. This study investigated whether the use of tranexamic acid (TXA) decreased blood loss and transfusion related cost following surface replacement arthroplasty (SRA). . Methods. A retrospective review of patients treated with TXA during a SRA, who did not receive autologous blood (TXA group) was performed. Two comparison groups were established; the first group comprised of patients who donated their own blood pre-operatively (auto group) and the second of patients who did not donate blood pre-operatively (control). Outcomes included transfusions, post-operative haemoglobin (Hgb), complications, and length of post-operative stay. . Results. Between 2009 and 2013, 150 patients undergoing SRA were identified for inclusion: 51 in the auto, 49 in the control, and 50 in the TXA group. There were no differences in the pre-operative Hgb concentrations between groups. The mean post-operative Hgb was 11.3 g/dL (9.1 to 13.6) in the auto and TXA groups, and 10.6 g/dL (8.1 to 12.1)in the control group (p = 0.001). Accounting for cost of transfusions, administration of TXA, and length of stay, the cost per patient was $1731, $339, and $185 for the auto, control and TXA groups, respectively. . Discussion. TXA use demonstrated higher post-operative Hgb concentrations when compared with controls and decreased peri-operative costs. Take home message: Tranexamic acid safely limits allogeneic transfusion, maintains post-operative haemoglobin, and decreases direct and indirect transfusion related costs in surface replacement arthroplasty. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:173–8

Aims. It has been suggested that the direct anterior approach (DAA) should be used for total hip arthroplasty (THA) instead of the posterior approach (PA) for better early functional outcomes. We conducted a value-based analysis of the functional outcome and associated perioperative costs, to determine which surgical approach gives the better short-term outcomes and lower costs. Methods. This meta-analysis was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol and the Cochrane Handbook. Several online databases were searched. Non-stratified and stratified meta-analyses were conducted to test the confounding biases in the studies which were included. The mean cost and probability were used to determine the added costs of perioperative services. Results. The DAA group had significantly longer operating times (p < 0.001), reduced length of hospital stay by a mean of 13.4 hours (95% confidence interval (CI) 9.12 to 18; p < 0.001), and greater blood loss (p = 0.030). The DAA group had significantly better functional outcome at three (p < 0.001) and six weeks (p = 0.006) postoperatively according to the Harris Hip Score (HHS). However, there was no significant difference between the groups for the HHS at six to eight weeks (p = 0.230), 12 weeks (p = 0.470), six months (p = 0.740), and one year (p = 0.610), the 12-Item Short Form Survey (SF-12) physical score at six weeks (p = 0.580) and one year (p = 0.360), SF-12 mental score at six weeks (p = 0.170) and one year (p = 0.960), and University of California and Los Angeles (UCLA) activity scale at 12 weeks (p = 0.250). The mean non-stratified and stratified difference in costs for the operating theatre time and blood transfusion were $587.57 (95% CI 263.83 to 1,010.29) to $887.04 (95% CI 574.20 to 1,298.88) and $248.38 (95% CI 1,003.40 to 1,539.90) to $1,162.41 (95% CI 645.78 to 7,441.30), respectively, more for the DAA group. However, the mean differences in costs for the time in hospital were $218.23 and $192.05, respectively, less for the DAA group. Conclusion. The use of the DAA, rather than the PA, in THA has earlier benefits for function and pain. However, these are short-lasting, with no significant differences seen at later intervals. In addition the limited benefits were obtained with higher cumulative costs for DAA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(6):1078–1087

Aims. The aim of this study was to identify modifiable risk factors associated with mortality in patients requiring revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) for periprosthetic hip fracture. Methods. The electronic records of consecutive patients undergoing revision THA for periprosthetic hip fracture between December 2011 and October 2018 were reviewed. The data which were collected included age, sex, body mass index (BMI), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification, the preoperative serum level of haemoglobin, time to surgery, operating time, blood transfusion, length of hospital stay, and postoperative surgical and medical complications. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to determine independent modifiable factors associated with mortality at 90 days and one year postoperatively. Results. A total of 203 patients were identified. Their mean age was 78 years (44 to 100), and 108 (53%) were female. The median time to surgery was three days (interquartile range (IQR) 2 to 5). The mortality rate at one year was 13.8% (n = 28). The commonest surgical complication was dislocation (n = 22, 10.8%) and the commonest medical complication within 90 days of surgery was hospital-acquired pneumonia (n = 25, 12%). Multivariate analysis showed that the rate of mortality one year postoperatively was five-fold higher in patients who sustained a dislocation (odds ratio (OR) 5.03 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.60 to 15.83); p = 0.006). The rate of mortality was also four-fold higher in patients who developed hospital-acquired pneumonia within 90 days postoperatively (OR 4.43 (95% CI 1.55 to 12.67); p = 0.005). There was no evidence that the time to surgery was a risk factor for death at one year. Conclusion. Dislocation and hospital-acquired pneumonia following revision THA for a periprosthetic fracture are potentially modifiable risk factors for mortality. This study suggests that surgeons should consider increasing constraint to reduce the risk of dislocation, and the early involvement of a multidisciplinary team to reduce the risk of hospital-acquired pneumonia. We found no evidence that the time to surgery affected mortality, which may allow time for medical optimization, surgical planning, and resource allocation. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(5):580–585

We report a systematic review and meta-analysis of published randomised controlled trials evaluating the efficacy of tranexamic acid (TXA) in reducing blood loss and transfusion in total hip replacement (THR). The data were evaluated using the generic evaluation tool designed by the Cochrane Bone, Joint and Muscle Trauma Group. We identified 11 clinical trials which were suitable for detailed extraction of data. There were no trials that used TXA in revision THR. A total of seven studies (comprising 350 patients) were eligible for the blood loss outcome data. The use of TXA reduced intra-operative blood loss by a mean of 104 ml (95% confidence interval (CI) −164 to −44, p = 0.0006, heterogeneity I. 2. 0%), postoperative blood loss by a mean of 172 ml (95% CI −263 to −81, p = 0.0002, heterogeneity I. 2. 63%) and total blood loss by a mean of 289 ml (95% CI −440 to −138, p < 0.0002, heterogeneity I. 2. 54%). TXA led to a significant reduction in the proportion of patients requiring allogeneic blood transfusion (risk difference −0.20, 95% CI −0.29 to −0.11, p < 0.00001, I. 2. 15%). There were no significant differences in deep-vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, infection rates or other complications among the study groups

Aims. The aim of this study was to compare the rate of perioperative complications following aseptic revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) in patients aged ≥ 80 years with that in those aged < 80 years, and to identify risk factors for the incidence of serious adverse events in those aged ≥ 80 years using a large validated national database. Patients and Methods. Patients who underwent aseptic revision THA were identified in the 2005 to 2015 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database and stratified into two age groups: those aged < 80 years and those aged ≥ 80 years. Preoperative and procedural characteristics were compared. Multivariate regression analysis was used to compare the risk of postoperative complications and readmission. Risk factors for the development of a serious adverse event in those aged ≥ 80 years were characterized. Results. The study included 7569 patients aged < 80 years and 1419 were aged ≥ 80 years. Multivariate analysis showed a higher risk of perioperative mortality, pneumonia, urinary tract infection and the requirement for a blood transfusion and an extended length of stay in those aged ≥ 80 years compared with those aged < 80 years. Independent risk factors for the development of a serious adverse event in those aged ≥ 80 years include an American Society of Anesthesiologists score of ≥ 3 and procedures performed under general anaesthesia. Conclusion. Even after controlling for patient and procedural characteristics, aseptic revision THA is associated with greater risks in patients aged ≥ 80 years compared with younger patients. This is important for counselling and highlights the need for medical optimization in these vulnerable patients. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:143–51

Patients considered suitable for total hip resurfacing arthroplasty often have bilateral disease. The peri-operative complications, transfusion requirements, hospital stay, outcome and costs in patients undergoing one-stage bilateral total hip resurfacing were compared with a group of patients undergoing a two-stage procedure. A total of 92 patients were included in the study, of which 37 (40%) had a one-stage and 55 (60%) had a two-stage resurfacing. There were no significant differences in age, gender, or American Society of Anaesthesiologists grade between the groups (p = 0.31, p = 0.23, p = 0.13, respectively). There were three systemic complications in the one-stage group (8.1%) and one in the two-stage group (1.8% of patients; 0.9% of procedures). There was no significant difference in the complication rate (p = 0.72) or the transfusion requirements (p = 0.32) between the two groups. The one-stage group had a reduced total hospital stay of five days (95% confidence interval 4.0 to 6.9; p < 0.001), reduced length of time to completion of all surgery of five months (95% confidence interval 2.6 to 8.3; p < 0.001), and the reduced cost was 35% less than that of a two-stage procedure. However, the total anaesthetic time was significantly longer for the one-stage group (p < 0.001; 95% confidence interval 31 to 52). This study demonstrates that consideration should be given to one-stage surgery for patients with bilateral symptomatic disease suitable for metal-on-metal hip resurfacing. A one-stage procedure appears to have benefits for both the patient and the hospital without additional complications

Between January 2000 and December 2007, 31 patients 90 years of age or older underwent total hip replacement at our hospital. Their data were collected prospectively. The rate of major medical complications was 9%. The surgical re-operation rate was 3%. The requirement for blood transfusion was 71% which was much higher than for younger patients. The 30-day, one-year and current mortality figures were 6.4% (2 of 31), 9.6% (3 of 31) and 55% (17 of 31), respectively, with a mean follow-up for the 14 surviving patients of six years. Cox’s regression analysis revealed no significant independent predictors of mortality. Only 52% of patients returned immediately to their normal abode, with 45% requiring a prolonged period of rehabilitation. This is the first series to assess survival five years after total hip replacement for patients in their 90th year and beyond. Hip replacement in the extreme elderly should not be discounted on the grounds of age alone, although the complication rate exceeds that for younger patients. It can be anticipated that almost half of the patients will survive five years after surgery

Aims

A typical pattern of blood loss associated with total hip arthroplasty (THA) is 200 ml intraoperatively and 1.3 l in the first 48 postoperative hours. Tranexamic acid (TXA) is most commonly given as a single preoperative dose only and is often withheld from patients with a history of thromboembolic disease as they are perceived to be “high-risk” with respect to postoperative venous thromboembolism (VTE). The TRanexamic ACid for 24 hours trial (TRAC-24) aimed to identify if an additional 24-hour postoperative TXA regime could further reduce blood loss beyond a once-only dose at the time of surgery, without excluding these high-risk patients.

Aims

The proportion of arthroplasties performed in the ambulatory setting has increased considerably. However, there are concerns whether same-day discharge may increase the risk of complications. The aim of this study was to compare 90-day outcomes between inpatient arthroplasties and outpatient arthroplasties performed at an ambulatory surgery centre (ASC), and determine whether there is a learning curve associated with performing athroplasties in an ASC.

Comparison of the safety and efficacy of bilateral simultaneous total hip replacement (THR) and that of staged bilateral THR and unilateral THR was conducted using DerSimonian-Laird heterogeneity meta-analysis. A review of the English-language literature identified 23 citations eligible for inclusion. A total of 2063 bilateral simultaneous THR patients were identified. Meta-analysis of homogeneous data revealed no statistically significant differences in the rates of thromboembolic events (p = 0.268 and p = 0.365) and dislocation (p = 0.877) when comparing staged or unilateral with bilateral simultaneous THR procedures. A systematic analysis of heterogeneous data demonstrated that the mean length of hospital stay was shorter after bilateral simultaneous THR. Higher blood transfusion requirements were expected following bilateral simultaneous THR than staged or unilateral THR, and surgical time was not different between groups. This procedure was also found to be economically and functionally efficacious when performed by experienced surgeons in specialist centres