The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of pedicle screw placement, as well as intraoperative factors, radiation exposure, and complication rates in adult patients with degenerative disorders of the thoracic and lumbar spines who have undergone robotic-navigated spinal surgery using a contemporary system. The authors reviewed the prospectively collected data on 196 adult patients who had pedicle screws implanted with robot-navigated assistance (RNA) using the Mazor X Stealth system between June 2019 and March 2022. Pedicle screws were implanted by one experienced spinal surgeon after completion of a learning period. The accuracy of pedicle screw placement was determined using intraoperative 3D fluoroscopy.Aims
Methods
The aim of the study was to apply 3D measurements for fracture displacement in minimally to moderately displaced acetabular fractures treated nonoperatively, and to evaluate whether this measurement can be used to estimate the likelihood of conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA) at follow-up. A multicentre, cross-sectional study was performed on 144 patients who were treated nonoperatively for an acetabular fracture in four level 1 trauma centres between January 2000 and December 2020. For each patient, fracture displacement was measured on CT-based 3D models. The 3D gap area represents fracture displacement (mm2) between all fracture fragments. A receiver operating characteristic curve was generated to determine a 3D gap area threshold representing the optimal sensitivity and specificity to predict conversion to THA. Native hip survival was reported using Kaplan-Meier curves. Predictors of conversion to THA were determined using Cox regression analysis.Aims
Methods
The development of lumbar lordosis has been traditionally examined using angular measurements of the spine to reflect its shape. While studies agree regarding the increase in the angles during growth, the growth rate is understudied, and sexual dimorphism is debated. In this study, we used a novel method to estimate the shape of the lumbar curve (LC) using the landmark-based geometric morphometric method to explore changes in LC during growth, examine the effect of size and sex on LC shape, and examine the associations between angular measurements and shape. The study population included 258 children aged between 0 and 20 years (divided into five age groups) who underwent a CT scan between the years 2009 and 2019. The landmark-based geometric morphometric method was used to capture the LC shape in a sagittal view. Additionally, the lordosis was measured via Cobb and sacral slope angles. Multivariate and univariate statistical analyses were carried out to examine differences in shape between males and females and between the age groups.Aims
Methods
This study aimed to compare the outcomes of two different postoperative management approaches following surgical fixation of ankle fractures: traditional cast immobilization versus the Early Motion and Directed Exercise (EMADE) programme. A total of 157 patients aged 18 years or older who underwent successful open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of Weber B (AO44B) ankle fractures were recruited to this randomized controlled trial. At two weeks post-surgical fixation, participants were randomized to either light-weight cast-immobilization or the EMADE programme, consisting of progressive home exercises and weekly advice and education. Both groups were restricted to non-weightbearing until six weeks post-surgery. The primary outcome was assessed using the Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS) questionnaire at 12 weeks post-surgery, with secondary measures at two, six, 24, and 52 weeks. Exploratory cost-effectiveness analyses were also performed.Aims
Methods
In order to release the contracture band completely without damaging normal tissues (such as the sciatic nerve) in the surgical treatment of gluteal muscle contracture (GMC), we tried to display the relationship between normal tissue and contracture bands by magnetic resonance neurography (MRN) images, and to predesign a minimally invasive surgery based on the MRN images in advance. A total of 30 patients (60 hips) were included in this study. MRN scans of the pelvis were performed before surgery. The contracture band shape and external rotation angle (ERA) of the proximal femur were also analyzed. Then, the minimally invasive GMC releasing surgery was performed based on the images and measurements, and during the operation, incision lengths, surgery duration, intraoperative bleeding, and complications were recorded; the time of the first postoperative off-bed activity was also recorded. Furthermore, the patients’ clinical functions were evaluated by means of Hip Outcome Score (HOS) and Ye et al’s objective assessments, respectively.Aims
Methods
To identify the incidence and risk factors for five-year same-site recurrent disc herniation (sRDH) after primary single-level lumbar discectomy. Secondary outcome was the incidence and risk factors for five-year sRDH reoperation. A retrospective study was conducted using prospectively collected data and patient-reported outcome measures, including the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), between 2008 and 2019. Postoperative sRDH was identified from clinical notes and the centre’s MRI database, with all imaging providers in the region checked for missing events. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate five-year sRDH incidence. Cox proportional hazards model was used to identify independent variables predictive of sRDH, with any variable not significant at the p < 0.1 level removed. Hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).Aims
Methods
The aim of this study was to evaluate whether achieving medial joint opening, as measured by the change in the joint line convergence angle (∆JLCA), is a better predictor of clinical outcomes after high tibial osteotomy (HTO) compared with the mechanical axis deviation, and to find individualized targets for the redistribution of load that reflect bony alignment, joint laxity, and surgical technique. This retrospective study analyzed 121 knees in 101 patients. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were collected preoperatively and one year postoperatively, and were analyzed according to the surgical technique (opening or closing wedge), postoperative mechanical axis deviation (deviations above and below 10% from the target), and achievement of medial joint opening (∆JLCA > 1°). Radiological parameters, including JLCA, mechanical axis deviation, and the difference in JLCA between preoperative standing and supine radiographs (JLCAPD), an indicator of medial soft-tissue laxity, were measured. Cut-off points for parameters related to achieving medial joint opening were calculated from receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.Aims
Methods
Breast cancer survivors have known risk factors that might influence the results of total hip arthroplasty (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This study evaluated clinical outcomes of patients with breast cancer history after primary THA and TKA. Our total joint registry identified patients with breast cancer history undergoing primary THA (n = 423) and TKA (n = 540). Patients were matched 1:1 based upon age, sex, BMI, procedure (hip or knee), and surgical year to non-breast cancer controls. Mortality, implant survival, and complications were assessed via Kaplan-Meier methods. Clinical outcomes were evaluated via Harris Hip Scores (HHSs) or Knee Society Scores (KSSs). Mean follow-up was six years (2 to 15).Aims
Methods
The June 2023 Foot & Ankle Roundup360 looks at: Nail versus plate fixation for ankle fractures; Outcomes of first ray amputation in diabetic patients; Vascular calcification on plain radiographs of the ankle to diagnose diabetes mellitus; Elderly patients with ankle fracture: the case for early weight-bearing; Active treatment for Frieberg’s disease: does it work?; Survival of ankle arthroplasty; Complications following ankle arthroscopy.
The aim of this study was to perform an incremental cost-utility analysis and assess the impact of differential costs and case volume on the cost-effectiveness of robotic arm-assisted medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (rUKA) compared to manual (mUKA). Ten-year follow-up of patients who were randomized to rUKA (n = 64) or mUKA (n = 65) was performed. Patients completed the EuroQol five-dimension health questionnaire preoperatively, at three months, and one, two, five, and ten years postoperatively, which was used to calculate quality-adjusted life years (QALY) gained and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). Costs for the index and additional surgery and healthcare costs were calculated.Aims
Methods
Elevated blood cobalt levels secondary to metal-on-metal (MoM) hip arthroplasties are a suggested risk factor for developing cardiovascular complications including cardiomyopathy. Clinical studies assessing patients with MoM hips using left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) have found conflicting evidence of cobalt-induced cardiomyopathy. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) is an echocardiography measurement known to be more sensitive than LVEF when diagnosing early cardiomyopathies. The extent of cardiovascular injury, as measured by GLS, in patients with elevated blood cobalt levels has not previously been examined. A total of 16 patients with documented blood cobalt ion levels above 13 µg/l (13 ppb, 221 nmol/l) were identified from a regional arthroplasty database. They were matched with eight patients awaiting hip arthroplasty. All patients underwent echocardiography, including GLS, investigating potential signs of cardiomyopathy.Aims
Methods
Radiotherapy is a well-known local treatment for spinal metastases. However, in the presence of postoperative systemic therapy, the efficacy of radiotherapy on local control (LC) and overall survival (OS) in patients with spinal metastases remains unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of post-surgical radiotherapy for spinal metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, and to identify factors correlated with LC and OS. A retrospective, single-centre review was conducted of patients with spinal metastases from NSCLC who underwent surgery followed by systemic therapy at our institution from January 2018 to September 2022. Kaplan-Meier analysis and log-rank tests were used to compare the LC and OS between groups. Associated factors for LC and OS were assessed using Cox proportional hazards regression analysis.Aims
Methods
There is little information in the literature about the use of dual-mobility (DM) bearings in preventing re-dislocation in revision total hip arthroplasty (THA). The aim of this study was to compare the use of DM bearings, standard bearings, and constrained liners in revision THA for recurrent dislocation, and to identify risk factors for re-dislocation. We reviewed 86 consecutive revision THAs performed for dislocation between August 2012 and July 2019. A total of 38 revisions (44.2%) involved a DM bearing, while 39 (45.3%) and nine (10.5%) involved a standard bearing and a constrained liner, respectively. Rates of re-dislocation, re-revision for dislocation, and overall re-revision were compared. Radiographs were assessed for the positioning of the acetabular component, the restoration of the centre of rotation, leg length, and offset. Risk factors for re-dislocation were determined by Cox regression analysis. The modified Harris Hip Scores (mHHSs) were recorded. The mean age of the patients at the time of revision was 70 years (43 to 88); 54 were female (62.8%). The mean follow-up was 5.0 years (2.0 to 8.75).Aims
Methods
To perform an incremental cost-utility analysis and assess the impact of differential costs and case volume on the cost-effectiveness of robotic arm-assisted unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (rUKA) compared to manual (mUKA). This was a five-year follow-up study of patients who were randomized to rUKA (n = 64) or mUKA (n = 65). Patients completed the EuroQol five-dimension questionnaire (EQ-5D) preoperatively, and at three months and one, two, and five years postoperatively, which was used to calculate quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) gained. Costs for the primary and additional surgery and healthcare costs were calculated.Aims
Methods
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. 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.Aims
Methods
Postoperative complication rates remain relatively high after adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery. The extent to which modifiable patient-related factors influence complication rates in patients with ASD has not been effectively evaluated. The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to evaluate the association between modifiable patient-related factors and complications after corrective surgery for ASD. ASD patients with two-year data were included. Complications were categorized as follows: any complication, major, medical, surgical, major mechanical, major radiological, and reoperation. Modifiable risk factors included smoking, obesity, osteoporosis, alcohol use, depression, psychiatric diagnosis, and hypertension. Patients were stratified by the degree of baseline deformity (low degree of deformity (LowDef)/high degree of deformity (HighDef): below or above 20°) and age (Older/Younger: above or below 65 years). Complication rates were compared for modifiable risk factors in each age/deformity group, using multivariable logistic regression analysis to adjust for confounders.Aims
Methods
Around the world, the emergence of robotic technology has improved surgical precision and accuracy in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This territory-wide study compares the results of various robotic TKA (R-TKA) systems with those of conventional TKA (C-TKA) and computer-navigated TKA (N-TKA). This is a retrospective study utilizing territory-wide data from the Clinical Data Analysis and Reporting System (CDARS). All patients who underwent primary TKA in all 47 public hospitals in Hong Kong between January 2021 and December 2023 were analyzed. Primary outcomes were the percentage use of various robotic and navigation platforms. Secondary outcomes were: 1) mean length of stay (LOS); 2) 30-day emergency department (ED) attendance rate; 3) 90-day ED attendance rate; 4) 90-day reoperation rate; 5) 90-day mortality rate; and 6) surgical time.Aims
Methods
Aims. The best method of treating unstable pelvic fractures that involve
the obturator ring is still a matter for debate. This study compared
three methods of treatment: nonoperative, isolated posterior fixation
and combined anteroposterior stabilization. Patients and Methods. The study used data from the German Pelvic Trauma Registry and
compared patients undergoing conservative management (n = 2394),
surgical treatment (n = 1345) and transpubic surgery, including
posterior stabilization (n = 730) with isolated posterior osteosynthesis
(n = 405) in non-complex Type B and C fractures that only involved the
obturator ring anteriorly. Calculated odds ratios were adjusted
for potential confounders. Outcome criteria were intraoperative
and general short-term complications, the incidence of nerve injuries,
and mortality. Results. Operative stabilization reduced mortality by 36% (odds ratio
(OR) 0.64, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.42 to 0.98) but the incidence
of complications was twice as high (OR 2.04, 95% CI 1.57 to 2.64).
Mortality and the incidence of
The modern prevalence of primary tumours causing metastatic bone disease is ill-defined in the oncological literature. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to identify the prevalence of primary tumours in the setting of metastatic bone disease, as well as reported rates of pathological fracture, postoperative complications, 90-day mortality, and 360-day mortality for each primary tumour subtype. The Premier Healthcare Database was queried to identify all patients who were diagnosed with metastatic bone disease from January 2015 to December 2020. The prevalence of all primary tumour subtypes was tabulated. Rates of long bone pathological fracture, 90-day mortality, and 360-day mortality following surgical treatment of pathological fracture were assessed for each primary tumour subtype. Patient characteristics and postoperative outcomes were analyzed based upon whether patients had impending fractures treated prophylactically versus treated completed fractures.Aims
Methods
