Aims. Obesity is associated with an increased risk of hip osteoarthritis, resulting in an increased number of total hip arthroplasties (THAs) performed annually. This study examines the peri- and postoperative outcomes of morbidly obese (MO) patients (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m. 2. ) compared to healthy weight (HW) patients (BMI 18.5 to < 25 kg/m. 2. ) who underwent a THA using the anterior-based muscle-sparing (ABMS) approach. Methods. This retrospective cohort study observes peri- and postoperative outcomes of MO and HW patients who underwent a primary, unilateral THA with the ABMS approach. Data from surgeries performed by three surgeons at a single institution was collected from January 2013 to August 2020 and analyzed using Microsoft Excel and Stata 17.0. Results. This study compares 341 MO to 1,140 HW patients. Anaesthesia, surgery duration, and length of hospital stay was significantly lower in HW patients compared to MO. There was no difference in incidence of pulmonary embolism, periprosthetic fracture, or dislocation between the two groups. The rate of infection in MO patients (1.47%) was significantly higher than HW patients (0.14%). Preoperative patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) show a significantly higher pain level in MO patients and a significantly lower score in functional abilities. Overall, six-week and one-year postoperative data show higher levels of pain, lower levels of functional improvement, and lower satisfaction scores in the MO group. Conclusion. The comorbidities of obesity are well studied; however, the implications of THA using the ABMS approach have not been studied. Our peri- and postoperative results demonstrate significant improvements in PROMs in MO patients undergoing THA. However, the incidence of deep infection was significantly higher in this group compared with HW patients. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(5):299–305

Aims. The purpose of this study was to assess total knee arthroplasty (TKA) volume and rates of early complications in morbidly obese patients over the last decade, where the introduction of quality models influencing perioperative care pathways occurred. Methods. Patients undergoing TKA between 2011 to 2018 were identified in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Patients were stratified by BMI < 40 kg/m. 2. and ≥ 40 kg/m. 2. and evaluated by the number of cases per year. The 30-day rates of any complication, wound complications, readmissions, and reoperation were assessed. Trends in these endpoints over the study period were compared between groups using odds ratios (ORs) and multivariate analyses. Results. In total, 314,695 patients underwent TKA and 46,362 (15%) had BMI ≥ 40 kg/m. 2. The prevalence of morbid obesity among TKA patients did not change greatly, ranging between 14% and 16%. Reoperation rate decreased from 1.16% to 0.96% (odds ratio (OR) 0.81 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.66 to 0.99)) for patients with BMI < 40 kg/m. 2. , as did rates of readmission (4.46% to 2.87%; OR 0.61 (0.55 to 0.69)). Patients with BMI ≥ 40 kg/m. 2. also had fewer readmissions over the study period (4.87% to 3.34%; OR 0.64 (0.49 to 0.83)); however, the rate of reoperation did not change (1.37% to 1.41%; OR 0.99 (0.62 to 1.56)). Significant improvements were not observed for infective complications over time for either group; patients with BMI ≥ 40 kg/m. 2. had increased risk of both deep infection and wound complications compared to non-morbidly obese patients. Rate of any complication decreased for all patients. Conclusion. The proportion of TKAs in morbidly obese patients has not significantly changed over the past decade. Although readmission rates improved for all patients, reductions in reoperation in non-morbidly obese patients were not experienced by the morbidly obese, resulting in a widening of the complication gap between these cohorts. Care improvements have not lowered the differential risk of infective complications in the morbidly obese. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(6 Supple A):38–44

Aims. There is evidence that morbidly obese patients have more intra- and postoperative complications and poorer outcomes when undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) with the direct anterior approach (DAA). The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of DAA for THA, and compare the complications and outcomes of morbidly obese patients with nonobese patients. Methods. Morbidly obese patients (n = 86), with BMI ≥ 40 kg/m. 2. who underwent DAA THA at our institution between September 2010 and December 2017, were matched to 172 patients with BMI < 30 kg/m. 2. Data regarding demographics, set-up and operating time, blood loss, radiological assessment, Harris Hip Score (HHS), International Hip Outcome Tool (12-items), reoperation rate, and complications at two years postoperatively were retrospectively analyzed. Results. No significant differences in blood loss, intra- and postoperative complications, or implant position were observed between the two groups. Superficial wound infection rate was higher in the obese group (8.1%) compared to the nonobese group (1.2%) (p = 0.007) and relative risk of reoperation was 2.59 (95% confidence interval 0.68 to 9.91). One periprosthetic joint infection was reported in the obese group. Set-up time in the operating table and mean operating time were higher in morbidly obese patients. Functional outcomes and patient-related outcome measurements were superior in the obese group (mean increase of HHS was 52.19 (SD 5.95) vs 45.1 (SD 4.42); p < 0.001), and mean increase of International Hip Outcome Tool (12-items) was 56.8 (SD 8.88) versus 55.2 (SD 5.85); p = 0.041). Conclusion. Our results suggest that THA in morbidly obese patients can be safely and effectively performed via the DAA by experienced surgeons. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(1):4–11

Aims. The aim of this study was to observe the implications of withholding total joint arthroplasty (TJA) in morbidly obese patients. Patients and Methods. A total of 289 morbidly obese patients with end-stage osteoarthritis were prospectively followed. There were 218 women and 71 men, with a mean age of 56.3 years (26.7 to 79.1). At initial visit, patients were given information about the risks of TJA in the morbidly obese and were given referral information to a bariatric clinic. Patients were contacted at six, 12, 18, and 24 months from initial visit. Results. The median body mass index (BMI) at initial visit was 46.9 kg/m. 2. (interquartile range (IQR) 44.6 to 51.3). A total of 82 patients (28.4%) refused to follow-up or answer phone surveys, and 149 of the remaining 207 (72.0%) did not have surgery. Initial median BMI of those 149 was 47.5 kg/m. 2. (IQR 44.6 to 52.5) and at last follow-up was 46.7 kg/m. 2. (IQR 43.4 to 51.2). Only 67 patients (23.2%) went to the bariatric clinic, of whom 14 (20.9%) had bariatric surgery. A total of 58 patients (20.1%) underwent TJA. For those 58, BMI at initial visit was 45.3 kg/m. 2. (IQR 43.7 to 47.2), and at surgery was 42.3 kg/m. 2. (IQR 38.1 to 46.5). Only 23 patients (39.7%) of those who had TJA successfully achieved BMI < 40 kg/m. 2. at surgery. Conclusion. Restricting TJA for morbidly obese patients does not incentivize weight loss prior to arthroplasty. Only 20.1% of patients ultimately underwent TJA and the majority of those remained morbidly obese. Better resources and coordinated care are required to optimize patients prior to surgery. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B(7 Supple C):28–32

Aims. We studied the outcomes of hip and knee arthroplasties in a high-volume arthroplasty centre to determine if patients with morbid obesity (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m. 2. ) had unacceptably worse outcomes as compared to those with BMI < 40 kg/m. 2. . Methods. In a two-year period, 4,711 patients had either total hip arthroplasty (THA; n = 2,370), total knee arthroplasty (TKA; n = 2,109), or unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA; n = 232). Of these patients, 392 (8.3%) had morbid obesity. We compared duration of operation, anaesthetic time, length of stay (LOS), LOS > three days, out of hours attendance, emergency department attendance, readmission to hospital, return to theatre, and venous thromboembolism up to 90 days. Readmission for wound infection was recorded to one year. Oxford scores were recorded preoperatively and at one year postoperatively. Results. On average, the morbidly obese had longer operating times (63 vs 58 minutes), longer anaesthetic times (31 vs 28 minutes), increased LOS (3.7 vs 3.5 days), and significantly more readmissions for wound infection (1.0% vs 0.3%). There were no statistically significant differences in either suspected or confirmed venous thromboembolism. Improvement in Oxford scores were equivalent. Conclusion. Although morbidly obese patients had less favourable outcomes, we do not feel that the magnitude of difference is clinically significant when applied to an individual, particularly when improvement in Oxford scores were unrelated to BMI. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(7):515–521

Aims. It has been shown that the preoperative modification of risk factors associated with obesity may reduce complications after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, the optimal method of doing so remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate whether a preoperative Risk Stratification Tool (RST) devised in our institution could reduce unexpected intensive care unit (ICU) transfers and 90-day emergency department (ED) visits, readmissions, and reoperations after TKA in obese patients. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed 1,614 consecutive patients undergoing primary unilateral TKA. Their mean age was 65.1 years (17.9 to 87.7) and the mean BMI was 34.2 kg/m. 2. (SD 7.7). All patients underwent perioperative optimization and monitoring using the RST, which is a validated calculation tool that provides a recommendation for postoperative ICU care or increased nursing support. Patients were divided into three groups: non-obese (BMI < 30 kg/m. 2. , n = 512); obese (BMI 30 kg/m. 2. to 39.9 kg/m. 2. , n = 748); and morbidly obese (BMI > 40 kg/m. 2. , n = 354). Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the outcomes among the groups adjusted for age, sex, smoking, and diabetes. Results. Obese patients had a significantly increased rate of discharge to a rehabilitation facility compared with non-obese patients (38.7% (426/1,102) vs 26.0% (133/512), respectively; p < 0.001). When stratified by BMI, discharge to a rehabilitation facility remained significantly higher compared with non-obese (26.0% (133)) in both obese (34.2% (256), odds ratio (OR) 1.6) and morbidly obese (48.0% (170), OR 3.1) patients (p < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in unexpected ICU transfer (0.4% (two) non-obese vs 0.9% (seven) obese (OR 2.5) vs 1.7% (six) morbidly obese (OR 5.4); p = 0.054), visits to the ED (8.6% (44) vs 10.3% (77) (OR 1.3) vs 10.5% (37) (OR 1.2); p = 0.379), readmissions (4.5% (23) vs 4.0% (30) (OR 1.0) vs 5.1% (18) (OR 1.4); p = 0.322), or reoperations (2.5% (13) vs 3.3% (25) (OR 1.2) vs 3.1% (11) (OR 0.9); p = 0.939). Conclusion. With the use of a preoperative RST, morbidly obese patients had similar rates of short-term postoperative adverse outcomes after primary TKA as non-obese patients. This supports the assertion that morbidly obese patients can safely undergo TKA with appropriate perioperative optimization and monitoring. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(6 Supple A):45–50

We compared 55 consecutive total hip replacements performed on 53 morbidly obese patients with osteoarthritis with a matched group of 55 total hip replacements in 53 non-obese patients. The groups were matched for age, gender, prosthesis type, laterality and preoperative Harris Hip Score. They were followed prospectively for five years and the outcomes were assessed using the Harris Hip Score, the Short-form 36 score and radiological findings. Survival at five years using revision surgery as an endpoint, was 90.9% (95% confidence interval 82.9 to 98.9) for the morbidly obese and 100% for the non-obese patients. The Harris Hip and the Short-form 36 scores were significantly better in the non-obese group (p < 0.001). The morbidly obese patients had a higher rate of complications (22% vs 5%, p = 0.012), which included dislocation and both superficial and deep infection. In light of these inferior results, morbidly obese patients should be advised to lose weight before undergoing a total hip replacement, and counselled regarding the complications. Despite these poorer results, however, the patients have improved function and quality of life

We evaluated the outcome of primary total hip replacement (THR) in 3290 patients with the primary diagnosis of osteoarthritis at a minimum follow-up of two years. They were stratified into categories of body mass index (BMI) based on the World Health Organisation classification of obesity. Statistical analysis was carried out to determine if there was a difference in the post-operative Western Ontario and McMaster Universities osteoarthritis index, the Harris hip score and the Short-Form-12 outcome based on the BMI. While the pre- and post-operative scores were lower for the group classified as morbidly obese, the overall change in outcome scores suggested an equal if not greater improvement compared with the non-morbidly obese patients. The overall survivorship and rate of complications were similar in the BMI groups although there was a slightly higher rate of revision for sepsis in the morbidly obese group. Morbid obesity does not affect the post-operative outcome after THR, with the possible exception of a marginally increased rate of infection. Therefore withholding surgery based on the BMI is not justified

The results of 41 consecutive total knee replacements performed on morbidly obese patients with a body mass index > 40 kg/m. 2. , were compared with a matched group of 41 similar procedures carried out in non-obese patients (body mass index < 30 kg/m. 2. ). The groups were matched for age, gender, diagnosis, type of prosthesis, laterality and pre-operative Knee Society Score. We prospectively followed up the patients for a mean of 38.5 months (6 to 66). No patients were lost to follow-up. At less than four years after operation, the results were worse in the morbidly obese group compared with the non-obese, as demonstrated by inferior Knee Society Scores (mean knee score 85.7 and 90.5 respectively, p = 0.08; mean function score 75.6 and 83.4, p = 0.01), a higher incidence of radiolucent lines on post-operative radiographs (29% and 7%, respectively, p = 0.02), a higher rate of complications (32% and 0%, respectively, p = 0.001) and inferior survivorship using revision and pain as end-points (72.3% and 97.6%, respectively, p = 0.02). Patients with a body mass index > 40 kg/m. 2. should be advised to lose weight prior to total knee replacement and to maintain weight reduction. They should also be counselled regarding the inferior results which may occur if they do not lose weight before surgery

Morbid obesity and its association with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome have been increasingly recognised in children. Orthopaedic surgeons are often the primary medical contact for older children with tibia vara, which has long been associated with obesity, but are unfamiliar with the evaluation and treatment of sleep apnoea in children. We reviewed all children with tibia vara treated surgically at one of our institutions over a period of five years. Thirty-seven patients were identified; 18 were nine years of age or older and 13 of these (72%) had morbid obesity and a history of snoring. Eleven children were diagnosed as having sleep apnoea on polysomnography. The incidence of this syndrome in the 18 children aged nine years or older with tibia vara, was 61%. All these patients required pre-operative non-invasive positive-pressure ventilation; tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy were necessary in five (45%). No peri-operative complications related to the airway occurred. There is a high incidence of sleep apnoea in morbidly obese patients with tibia vara. These patients should be screened for snoring and, if present, should be further evaluated for sleep apnoea before corrective surgery is undertaken

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

We carried out a prospective, continuous study on 529 patients who underwent primary total knee replacement between January 2006 and December 2007 at a major teaching hospital. The aim was to investigate weight change and the functional and clinical outcome in non-obese and obese groups at 12 months post-operatively. The patients were grouped according to their pre-operative body mass index (BMI) as follows: non-obese (BMI < 30 kg/m. 2. ), obese (BMI . 3. 30 to 39 kg/m. 2. ) and morbidly obese (BMI > 40 kg/m. 2. ). The clinical outcome data were available for all patients and functional outcome data for 521 (98.5%). Overall, 318 (60.1%) of the patients were obese or morbidly obese. At 12 months, a clinically significant weight loss of ≥ 5% had occurred in 40 (12.6%) of the obese patients, but 107 (21%) gained weight. The change in the International Knee Society score was less in obese and morbidly obese compared with non-obese patients (p = 0.016). Adverse events occurred in 30 (14.2%) of the non-obese, 59 (22.6%) of the obese and 20 (35.1%) of the morbidly obese patients (p = 0.001)

A prospective, multi-centre study was carried out on 1421 total hip replacements between January 1999 and July 2007 to examine if obesity has an effect on clinical outcomes. The patients were categorised into three groups: non-obese (body mass index (BMI) < 30 kg/m. 2. ), obese (BMI 30 to 40 kg/m. 2. ) and morbidly obese (BMI > 40 kg/m. 2. ). The primary outcome measure was the change in Oxford hip score at five years. Secondary outcome measures included dislocation and revision rates, increased haemorrhage, deep infection, deep-vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, mean operating time and length of hospital stay. Radiological analysis assessing heterotopic ossification, femoral osteolysis and femoral stem positioning was performed. Data were incomplete for 362 hips (25.5%). There was no difference in the change in the Oxford hip score, complication rates or radiological changes at five years between the groups. The morbidly obese group was significantly younger and required a significantly longer operating time. Obese and morbidly obese patients have as much to gain from total hip replacement as non-obese patients

Aims. The purpose of this study was to determine the association between prior sleeve gastrectomy in patients undergoing primary total hip and knee arthroplasty, and 90-day complications, incidence of revision arthroplasty, and patient-reported outcome scores at final follow-up. Methods. This is a retrospective, single-centre analysis. Patients undergoing primary hip or knee arthroplasty with a prior sleeve gastrectomy were eligible for inclusion (n = 80 patients). A morbidly obese control group was established from the same institutional registry using a 1:2 match, for cases:controls with arthroplasty based on propensity score using age, sex, pre-sleeve gastrectomy BMI, Current Procedural Terminology code to identify anatomical location, and presurgical haemoglobin A1C. Outcomes included 90-day complications, incidence of revision arthroplasty, and patient-reported outcome scores at final follow-up. Multivariable logistic regressions evaluated associations of underlying preoperative demographic and treatment characteristics with outcomes. Results. Complications within 90 days of surgery were increased in the sleeve gastrectomy group relative to the obese control group after controlling for underlying preoperative demographic characteristics (odds ratio (OR) 4.00 (95% CI 1.14 to 13.9); p = 0.030). Postoperative revisions were similar in the sleeve gastrectomy group relative to the obese control group after controlling for underlying preoperative demographic characteristics (OR 17.8 (95% CI 0.64 to 494.3); p = 0.090). Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) depression decreased by a greater amount from pre- to postoperative in the obese controls relative to the sleeve gastrectomy group (OR 4.04 (95% CI 0.06 to 8.02); p = 0.047). PROMIS pain interference and physical function change from pre- to postoperative was not associated with sleeve gastrectomy status. Conclusion. We found a higher rate of complications at 90 days in patients who underwent sleeve gastrectomy prior to primary hip or knee arthroplasty relative to a matched, obese control population. Prosthetic revision rates were similar between the two groups, while improvements in PROMIS depression scores were larger in the obese cohort. This study suggests that sleeve gastrectomy to achieve preoperative weight loss prior to arthroplasty surgery may not mitigate early complication risks in obese patient populations. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(9):935–941

We studied a consecutive series of 285 uncemented total hip replacements in 260 patients using the Taperloc femoral component and the T-Tap acetabular component. The outcome of every hip was determined in both living and deceased patients. A complete clinical and radiological follow-up was obtained for 209 hips in 188 living patients, followed for a mean of 14.5 years (10 to 18.9). They were divided into two groups, obese and non-obese, as determined by their body mass index. There were 100 total hip replacements in 89 patients in the obese cohort (body mass index ≥ 30 kg/m. 2. ), and 109 in 99 non-obese (body mass index < 30 kg/m. 2. ) patients. A subgroup analysis of 31 patients of normal weight (body mass index 20 kg/m. 2. to 25 kg/m. 2. ) (33 hips) and 26 morbidly obese patients (body mass index ≥ 35 kg/m. 2. ) (30 hips) was also carried out. In the obese group five femoral components (5%) were revised and one (1%) was loose by radiological criteria. Femoral cortical osteolysis was seen in eight hips (8%). The acetabular component was revised in 57 hips (57%) and a further 17 (17%) were loose. The mean Harris hip score improved from 52 (30 to 66) pre-operatively to 89 (49 to 100) at final follow-up. Peri-operative complications occurred in seven patients (7%). In the non-obese group six (6%) femoral components were revised and one (1%) was loose. Femoral cortical osteolysis occurred in six hips (6%). The acetabular component was revised in 72 hips (66%) and a further 18 (17%) were loose. The mean Harris hip score increased from 53 (25 to 73) prior to surgery to 89 (53 to 100) at the time of each patient’s final follow-up radiograph. No statistically significant difference was identified between the obese and non-obese patients with regards to clinical and radiological outcome or complications. The subgroup analysis of patients of normal weight and those who were morbidly obese showed no statistically significant difference in the rate of revision of either component. Our findings suggest there is no evidence to support withholding total hip replacement from obese patients with arthritic hips on the grounds that their outcome will be less satisfactory than those who are not obese

There has been considerable discussion as to the influence of obesity on the indications for, and the outcome after, joint replacement. Attempts have been made to withhold funding for such procedures in those who are overweight. What is the justification for this? This editorial examines the current evidence concerning the influence of obesity on joint replacement and suggests that it is only in the morbidly obese, with a body mass index > 40 kg/m. 2. , that significant contraindications to operation are present

We audited the relationship between obesity and the age at which hip and knee replacement was undertaken at our centre. The database was analysed for age, the Oxford hip or knee score and the body mass index (BMI) at the time of surgery. In total, 1369 patients were studied, 1025 treated by hip replacement and 344 by knee replacement. The patients were divided into five groups based on their BMI (normal, overweight, moderately obese, severely obese and morbidly obese). The difference in the mean Oxford score at surgery was not statistically significant between the groups (p > 0.05). For those undergoing hip replacement, the mean age of the morbidly obese patients was ten years less than that of those with a normal BMI. For those treated by knee replacement, the difference was 13 years. The age at surgery fell significantly for those with a BMI > 35 kg/m. 2. for both hip and knee replacement (p > 0.05). This association was stronger for patients treated by knee than by hip replacement

Aims. Our aim was to determine whether, based on the current literature, bariatric surgery prior to total hip (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA) reduces the complication rates and improves the outcome following arthroplasty in obese patients. Methods. A systematic literature search was undertaken of published and unpublished databases on the 5 November 2015. All papers reporting studies comparing obese patients who had undergone bariatric surgery prior to arthroplasty, or not, were included. Each study was assessed using the Downs and Black appraisal tool. A meta-analysis of risk ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) was performed to determine the incidence of complications including wound infection, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), revision surgery and mortality. Results. From 156 potential studies, five were considered to be eligible for inclusion in the study. A total of 23 348 patients (657 who had undergone bariatric surgery, 22 691 who had not) were analysed. The evidence-base was moderate in quality. There was no statistically significant difference in outcomes such as superficial wound infection (relative risk (RR) 1.88; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.95 to 0.37), deep wound infection (RR 1.04; 95% CI 0.65 to 1.66), DVT (RR 0.57; 95% CI 0.13 to 2.44), PE (RR 0.51; 95% CI 0.03 to 8.26), revision surgery (RR 1.24; 95% CI 0.75 to 2.05) or mortality (RR 1.25; 95% CI 0.16 to 9.89) between the two groups. Conclusion. For most peri-operative outcomes, bariatric surgery prior to THA or TKA does not significantly reduce the complication rates or improve the clinical outcome. This study questions the previous belief that bariatric surgery prior to arthroplasty may improve the clinical outcomes for patients who are obese or morbidly obese. This finding is based on moderate quality evidence. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:1160–6

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Patients with a high comorbidity burden (HCB) can achieve similar improvements in quality of life compared with low-risk patients, but greater morbidity may deter surgeons from operating on these patients. Whether surgeon volume influences total hip arthroplasty (THA) outcomes in HCB patients has not been investigated. This study aimed to compare complication rates and implant survivorship in HCB patients operated on by high-volume (HV) and non-HV THA surgeons.

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This study aims to evaluate the impact of metabolic syndrome in the setting of obesity on in-hospital outcomes and resource use after total joint replacement (TJR).

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To determine whether obesity and malnutrition have a synergistic effect on outcomes from skeletal trauma or elective orthopaedic surgery.

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This work aimed at answering the following research questions: 1) What is the rate of mechanical complications, nonunion and infection for head/neck femoral fractures, intertrochanteric fractures, and subtrochanteric fractures in the elderly USA population? and 2) Which factors influence adverse outcomes?

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The optimal choice of management for proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) has been increasingly discussed in the literature, and this work aimed to answer the following questions: 1) what are the incidence rates of PHF in the geriatric population in the USA; 2) what is the mortality rate after PHF in the elderly population, specifically for distinct treatment procedures; and 3) what factors influence the mortality rate?

The August 2024 Knee Roundup³⁶⁰ looks at: Calcification’s role in knee osteoarthritis: implications for surgical decision-making; Lower complication rates and shorter lengths of hospital stay with technology-assisted total knee arthroplasty; Revision surgery: the hidden burden on surgeons; Are preoperative weight loss interventions worthwhile?; Total knee arthroplasty with or without prior bariatric surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis; Aspirin triumphs in knee arthroplasty: a decade of evidence; Efficacy of DAIR in unicompartmental knee arthroplasty: a glimpse from Oxford.

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The aim of this study was to investigate the global and local impact of fat on bone in obesity by using the diet-induced obese (DIO) mouse model.

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Instability is a common indication for revision total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, even after the initial revision, some patients continue to have recurrent dislocation. The aim of this study was to assess the risk for recurrent dislocation after revision THA for instability.

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Surgical site infection (SSI) after soft-tissue sarcoma (STS) resection is a serious complication. The purpose of this retrospective study was to investigate the risk factors for SSI after STS resection, and to develop a nomogram that allows patient-specific risk assessment.

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To assess the incidence of radiological lateral osteoarthritis (OA) at 15 years after medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) and assess the relationship of lateral OA with symptoms and patient characteristics.

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Despite the increasing numbers of ankle arthroplasties, there are limited studies on their survival and comparisons between different implants. The primary aim of this study was to determine the failure rates of primary ankle arthroplasties commonly used in the UK.

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The aim of this study is to report the implant survival and factors associated with revision of total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) using data from the Dutch national registry.

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This study aimed to investigate the estimated change in primary and revision arthroplasty rate in the Netherlands and Denmark for hips, knees, and shoulders during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 (COVID-period). Additional points of focus included the comparison of patient characteristics and hospital type (2019 vs COVID-period), and the estimated loss of quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) and impact on waiting lists.

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The mid-term results of kinematic alignment (KA) for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) using image derived instrumentation (IDI) have not been reported in detail, and questions remain regarding ligamentous stability and revisions. This paper aims to address the following: 1) what is the distribution of alignment of KA TKAs using IDI; 2) is a TKA alignment category associated with increased risk of failure or poor patient outcomes; 3) does extending limb alignment lead to changes in soft-tissue laxity; and 4) what is the five-year survivorship and outcomes of KA TKA using IDI?

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The primary aim of our study was to assess the influence of age on hip-specific outcome following total hip arthroplasty (THA). Secondary aims were to assess health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and level of activity according to age.

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Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is one of the most successful surgical procedures. The objectives of this study were to define whether there is a correlation between socioeconomic status (SES) and surgical complications after elective primary unilateral THA, and investigate whether access to elective THA differs within SES groups.

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Access to total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is sometimes restricted for patients with severe obesity (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m²). This study compares the cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) associated with TKA in patients with a BMI above and below 40 kg/m² to examine whether this is supported.

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Rates of readmission and reoperation following primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are under scrutiny due to new payment models, which penalize these negative outcomes. Some risk factors are more modifiable than others, and some conditions considered modifiable such as obesity may not be as modifiable in the setting of advanced arthritis as many propose. We sought to determine whether controlling for hypoalbuminaemia would mitigate the effect that prior authors had identified in patients with obesity.

Aims

Many patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) have severe osteoarthritis (OA) in both knees and may consider either simultaneous or staged bilateral TKA. The implications of simultaneous versus staged bilateral TKA for return to work are not well understood. We hypothesized that employed patients who underwent simultaneous bilateral TKA would have significantly fewer days missed from work compared with the sum of days missed from each operation for patients who underwent staged bilateral TKA.

Aims

There is a paucity of long-term studies analyzing risk factors for failure after single-stage revision for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) following total hip arthroplasty (THA). We report the mid- to long-term septic and non-septic failure rate of single-stage revision for PJI after THA.

Aims

Increasingly, patients with bilateral hip arthritis wish to undergo staged total hip arthroplasty (THA). With the rise in demand for arthroplasty, perioperative risk assessment and counselling is crucial for shared decision making. However, it is unknown if complications that occur after a unilateral hip arthroplasty predict complications following surgery of the contralateral hip.

Aims

For many designs of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) it remains unclear whether cemented or uncemented fixation provides optimal long-term survival. The main limitation in most studies is a retrospective or non-comparative study design. The same is true for comparative trials looking only at the survival rate as extensive sample sizes are needed to detect true differences in fixation and durability. Studies using radiostereometric analysis (RSA) techniques have shown to be highly predictive in detecting late occurring aseptic loosening at an early stage. To investigate the difference in predicted long-term survival between cemented, uncemented, and hybrid fixation of TKA, we performed a randomized controlled trial using RSA.

Aims

This study aimed to compare the effect of antibiotic-loaded bone cement (ALBC) versus plain bone cement (PBC) on revision rates for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) and all-cause revisions following primary elective total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Cementless knee arthroplasty has seen a recent resurgence in popularity due to conceptual advantages, including improved osseointegration providing biological fixation, increased surgical efficiency, and reduced systemic complications associated with cement impaction and wear from cement debris. Increasingly younger and higher demand patients are requiring knee arthroplasty, and as such, there is optimism cementless fixation may improve implant survivorship and functional outcomes.

Compared to cemented implants, the National Joint Registry (NJR) currently reports higher revision rates in cementless total knee arthroplasty (TKA), but lower in unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA). However, recent studies are beginning to show excellent outcomes with cementless implants, particularly with UKA which has shown superior performance to cemented varieties. Cementless TKA has yet to show long-term benefit, and currently performs equivalently to cemented in short- to medium-term cohort studies. However, with novel concepts including 3D-printed coatings, robotic-assisted surgery, radiostereometric analysis, and kinematic or functional knee alignment principles, it is hoped they may help improve the outcomes of cementless TKA in the long-term. In addition, though cementless implant costs remain higher due to novel implant coatings, it is speculated cost-effectiveness can be achieved through greater surgical efficiency and potential reduction in revision costs. There is paucity of level one data on long-term outcomes between fixation methods and the cost-effectiveness of modern cementless knee arthroplasty.

This review explores recent literature on cementless knee arthroplasty, with regards to clinical outcomes, implant survivorship, complications, and cost-effectiveness; providing a concise update to assist clinicians on implant choice.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(1):48–57.

Aims

The primary aim of this study was to assess whether the postoperative Oxford Knee Score (OKS) demonstrated a ceiling effect at one and/or two years after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The secondary aim was to identify preoperative independent predictors for patients that achieved a ceiling score after TKA.

Aims

We studied the safety and efficacy of multimodal thromboprophylaxis in patients with a history of venous thromboembolism (VTE) who undergo total hip arthroplasty (THA) within the first 120 postoperative days, and the mortality during the first year. Multimodal prophylaxis includes discontinuation of procoagulant medications, VTE risk stratification, regional anaesthesia, an intravenous bolus of unfractionated heparin prior to femoral preparation, rapid mobilization, the use of pneumatic compression devices, and chemoprophylaxis tailored to the patient’s risk of VTE.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to unprecedented challenges to healthcare systems worldwide. Orthopaedic departments have adopted business continuity models and guidelines for essential and non-essential surgeries to preserve hospital resources as well as protect patients and staff. These guidelines broadly encompass reduction of ambulatory care with a move towards telemedicine, redeployment of orthopaedic surgeons/residents to the frontline battle against COVID-19, continuation of education and research through web-based means, and cancellation of non-essential elective procedures. However, if containment of COVID-19 community spread is achieved, resumption of elective orthopaedic procedures and transition plans to return to normalcy must be considered for orthopaedic departments. The COVID-19 pandemic also presents a moral dilemma to the orthopaedic surgeon considering elective procedures. What is the best treatment for our patients and how does the fear of COVID-19 influence the risk-benefit discussion during a pandemic? Surgeons must deliberate the fine balance between elective surgery for a patient’s wellbeing versus risks to the operating team and utilization of precious hospital resources. Attrition of healthcare workers or Orthopaedic surgeons from restarting elective procedures prematurely or in an unsafe manner may render us ill-equipped to handle the second wave of infections. This highlights the need to develop effective screening protocols or preoperative COVID-19 testing before elective procedures in high-risk, elderly individuals with comorbidities. Alternatively, high-risk individuals should be postponed until the risk of nosocomial COVID-19 infection is minimal. In addition, given the higher mortality and perioperative morbidity of patients with COVID-19 undergoing surgery, the decision to operate must be carefully deliberated. As we ramp-up elective services and get “back to business” as orthopaedic surgeons, we have to be constantly mindful to proceed in a cautious and calibrated fashion, delivering the best care, while maintaining utmost vigilance to prevent the resurgence of COVID-19 during this critical transition period.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Open 2020;1-6:222–228.

Aims

Postoperative range of movement (ROM) is an important measure of successful and satisfying total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Reduced postoperative ROM may be evident in up to 20% of all TKAs and negatively affects satisfaction. To improve ROM, manipulation under anaesthesia (MUA) may be performed. Historically, a limited ROM preoperatively was used as the key harbinger of the postoperative ROM. However, comorbidities may also be useful in predicting postoperative stiffness. The goal was to assess preoperative comorbidities in patients undergoing TKA relative to incidence of postoperative MUA. The hope is to forecast those who may be at increased risk and determine if MUA is an effective form of treatment.