Open reduction and internal fixation alone versus open reduction and internal fixation plus total hip arthroplasty for displaced acetabular fractures in patients older than 60 years: A prospective clinical trial

IntroductionThe optimal treatment of elderly patients with an acetabular fracture is unknown. We conducted a prospective clinical trial to compare functional outcomes and reoperation rates in patients older than 60 years with acetabular fracture treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) alone versus ORIF plus concomitant total hip arthroplasty (ORIF + THA). Our hypothesis was that patients who had ORIF + THA would have better patient reported outcomes and lower reoperation rates postoperatively.MethodsInclusion criteria were patients older than 60 years with acetabular fracture plus at least one of three fracture characteristics: dome impaction, femoral head fracture, or posterior wall component. Eligible patients were operative candidates based on fracture displacement, ambulatory status, and physiological appropriateness. Patients received either ORIF alone or ORIF + THA (accomplished at same surgery through same incision). Outcome measurements included Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index hip score, Short Form 36, Harris Hip Score, and Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire Short Form scores. Additionally, patients were monitored for any unplanned reoperation within 2 years.ResultsForty-seven of 165 eligible patients with an average age of 70.7 years were included. The mean Harris Hip Score difference favored ORIF + THA (mean difference, 12.3, [95% confidence interval (CI), -0.3 to 24.9, p = 0.07]). No clinically important differences were detected in any other validated outcome score or patient satisfaction score 1 year after surgery. ORIF + THA decreased the absolute risk of reoperation by 28% (95% CI, 13% to 44%, p < 0.01). No postoperative hip dislocation occurred in either group.ConclusionsIn patients older than 60 years with an operative displaced acetabular fracture with specific fracture features (dome impaction, femoral head fracture, or posterior wall component), treatment with ORIF + THA resulted in fewer reoperations than treatment with ORIF alone. No differences in patient satisfaction and other validated outcome measures were detected.     

Transverse posterior wall acetabular fracture pattern is associated with increased risk of periprosthetic joint infection after conversion total hip arthroplasty

IntroductionAcetabular fracture subtypes are associated with varying rates of subsequent conversion total hip arthroplasty (THA) after open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) with transverse posterior wall (TPW) patterns having a higher risk for early conversion. Conversion THA is fraught with complications including increased rates of revision and periprosthetic joint infections (PJI). We aimed to determine if TPW pattern is associated with higher rates of readmissions and complications including PJI after conversion compared to other subtypes.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed 1,938 acetabular fractures treated with ORIF at our institution from 2005 to 2019, of which 170 underwent conversion that met inclusion criteria, including 80 TPW fracture pattern. Conversion THA outcomes were compared by initial fracture pattern. There was no difference between the TPW and other fracture patterns in age, BMI, comorbidities, surgical variables, length of stay, ICU stay, discharge disposition, or hospital acquired complications related to their initial ORIF procedure. Multivariable analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors for PJI at both 90-days and 1-year after conversion.ResultsTPW fracture had higher risk of PJI after conversion THA at 1-year (16.3% vs 5.6%, p = 0.027). Multivariable analysis revealed TPW independently carried increased risk of 90-day (OR 4.89; 95% CI 1.16–20.52; p = 0.03) and 1-year PJI (OR 6.51; 95% CI 1.56–27.16; p = 0.01) compared to the other acetabular fracture patterns. There was no difference between the fracture cohorts in 90-day or 1-year mechanical complications including dislocation, periprosthetic fracture and revision THA for aseptic etiologies, or 90-day all-cause readmission after the conversion procedure.ConclusionAlthough conversion THA after acetabular ORIF carry high rates of PJI overall, TPW fractures are associated with increased risk for PJI after conversion compared to other fracture patterns at 1-year follow-up. Novel management/treatment of these patients either at the time of ORIF and/or conversion THA procedure are needed to reduce PJI rates.Level of evidenceTherapeutic Level III (retrospective study of consecutive patients undergoing an intervention with analyses of outcomes).     

Factors influencing functional outcomes following open reduction internal fixation of acetabular fractures

IntroductionRecent large series of patient-reported outcomes after acetabulum fracture are limited, and potentially modifiable risk factors may be unidentified. The goal of this study was to describe patient and injury factors which negatively influence functional outcomes following operative management of acetabular fractures.Methods699 patients with acetabular fractures were treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). Musculoskeletal Function Assessment (MFA) questionnaire was completed after a minimum 12 months post-injury by 283 adults. MFA scores range from 1 to 100 and higher scores represent greater dysfunction. Factors were assessed for potential association with MFA scores, and univariate and multiple linear regression analyses were performed.ResultsSurvey respondents were more severely injured than non-respondents, with more chest injury (38% vs 22%, p<0.001) and higher Injury Severity Score (19.3 vs 16.8, p=0.003). Patients were 69% male with mean age 44.0 years. Approximately one-third were smokers (31%), while 14% had comorbid diabetes mellitus type II. The majority of injuries occurred during a motor vehicle collision (65%); low-energy mechanisms were rare (4.2%). The most common fracture pattern was isolated posterior wall (23%), followed by transverse/posterior wall (21%). Heterotopic ossification (HO) was noted in 22%: Brooker 1: 29.5%, 2: 23.0%, 3: 32.8%, and 4: 14.8%. Tobacco use (β = 18.4, p<0.001), obesity (β = 0.39, p=0.009), diabetes (β = 8.2, p=0.029), post-traumatic arthrosis (PTA) (β = 5.94 p=0.035), and increasing HO severity (β = 8.93, p<0.001) were independently associated with worse MFA scores. Tobacco use had the strongest association, followed by the severity of HO.ConclusionIn a large series of patient-reported functional outcomes following fixation of acetabular fractures, tobacco use, obesity, comorbid diabetes, PTA, and HO were associated with worse MFA scores. Further study to mitigate HO should be considered.Level of EvidenceIII     

Influence of bacteriobilia on postoperative complications in patients with periampullary tumors

BackgroundPeriampullary tumours (PAT) may cause obstruction of distal choledochus. The bile stasis is a risk factor for microbial colonisation of bile (bacteriobilia), cholangitis, hepatic insufficiency and coagulopathy. PAT obstruction can be managed surgically or non-operatively - by inserting a biliary drain or stent (BDS). Although BDS allows for adequate bile drainage, liver function restitution and coagulopathy, increased bacteriobilia has been reported and this is associated with an increased incidence of postoperative complications.MethodsA monocentric, prospective, comparative study including 100 patients operated with PAT. The effects of bacteriobilia and the presence of a drain in the biliary tract on the development of postoperative complications were evaluated.ResultsPositive microbial findings in bile were found in 67% of patients. It was 98% in the biliary drain group vs. 36% in non-drained patients (p = 0.0001). In 68% 2 or more different bacterial strains were simultaneously present (p = 0.0001). Patients with a positive microbial finding in bile had more frequent incidence of infectious complications 40.2% (27) vs. 9.1% (3); p = 0.0011. The most frequent infectious complication was wound infection 29.8% (20) vs. 3.03% (1); p = 0.0014. Similarly, a higher incidence of postoperative infectious complications occurred in patients with BDS - 36% (18) vs. 24% (12); p = 0.2752.ConclusionThe presence of a drain or stent in the biliary tract significantly increases the microbial colonisation of bile. It is associated with a significant increase in infectious complications, especially infections in the wound.     

Outcomes of Total Hip Arthroplasty After Acetabular Open Reduction and Internal Fixation in the Elderly—Acute vs Delayed Total Hip Arthroplasty

BackgroundOptimum management for the elderly acetabular fracture remains undefined. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) in this population does not allow early weight-bearing and has an increased risk of failure. This study aimed to define outcomes of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in the setting of an acetabular fracture and compared delayed THA after acetabular ORIF (ORIF delayed THA) and acute fixation and THA (ORIF acute THA).MethodsAll acetabular fractures in patients older than 60 years who underwent ORIF between 2007 and 2018 were reviewed (n = 85). Of those, 14 underwent ORIF only initially and required subsequent THA (ORIF delayed THA). Twelve underwent an acute THA at the time of the ORIF (ORIF acute THA). The ORIF acute THA group was older (81 ± 7 vs 76 ± 8; P < .01) but had no other demographic- or injury-related differences compared with the ORIF delayed THA group. Outcome measures included operative time, length of stay, complications, radiographic assessments (component orientation, leg-length discrepancy, heterotopic ossification), and functional outcomes using the Oxford Hip Score (OHS).ResultsOperative time (P = .1) and length of stay (P = .5) for the initial surgical procedure (ORIF only or ORIF THA) were not different between groups. Four patients had a complication and required further surgeries; no difference was seen between groups. Radiographic assessments were similar between groups. The ORIF acute THA group had a significantly better OHS (40.1 ± 3.9) than the ORIF delayed THA group (33.6 ± 8.5) (P = .03).ConclusionIn elderly acetabulum fractures, ORIF acute THA compared favorably (a better OHS, single operation/hospital visit, equivalent complications) with ORIF delayed THA. We would thus recommend that in patients with risk factors for failure requiring delayed THA (eg, dome or roof impaction) that ORIF acute THA be strongly considered.     

Mid-term functional and radiological outcomes after total hip replacement performed for complications of acetabular fractures

ObjectiveAcetabular fractures can lead to serious complications such as avascular necrosis of the femoral head (AVN), osteoarthritis, non-union. Total hip replacement (THR) is a treatment option for these complications. The purpose of this study was to assess the functional and radiological outcomes of THR at least 5 years after the primary implantation.MethodsThis retrospective study analysed clinical data from 77 patients (59 males, 18 females) who were treated from 2001 to 2022. Data was collected on the incidence of AVN of the femoral head, complications, interval from fracture to THR, reimplantation. The modified Harris Hip Score (MHHS) was used to evaluate outcome.ResultsThe mean age at the time of fracture was 48 years. Avascular necrosis developed in 56 patients (73%), with 3 cases of non-union. Osteoarthritis without AVN developed in 20 patients (26%), non-union without AVN in one patient (1%). The mean time from fracture to THR was 24 months for AVN with non-union, 23 months for AVN alone, 22 months for AVN with arthritis, 49 months for hip osteoarthritis without AVN. The time interval was significantly shorter for cases of AVN than for cases of osteoarthritis without AVN (p = 0.0074). Type C1 acetabular fracture was found to be a risk factor for femoral head AVN (p = 0.0053). Common complications of acetabular fractures included post-traumatic sciatic nerve paresis (17%), deep venous thrombosis (4%), infections (4%). Hip dislocation was the most common complication of THR (17%). There were no cases of thrombosis following THR. According to Kaplan-Meier analysis, the proportion of patients without revision surgery within 10-year period was 87.4% (95% CI 86.7–88.1). The results of the MHHS after THR: 59.3% of patients had excellent results, 7.4% good, 9.3% satisfactory results, and 24.0% had poor results. The mean MHHS was 84 points (95% CI 78.5–89.5). Paraarticular ossifications were observed in 69.4% of patients in the radiological evaluation.ConclusionTotal hip replacement is an effective treatment for serious complications of acetabular fracture treatment. Its results are comparable to THR peformed for other indications, although it is associated with a higher number of paraarticular ossifications. Type C1 acetabular fracture was found to be a significant risk factor for early femoral head AVN.     

Conversion Total Knee Arthroplasty: Prior Fracture or Osteotomy Around the Knee Leads to Increased Resource Utilization

BackgroundPrior knee surgery before total knee arthroplasty (TKA) puts patients at higher risk of inferior outcomes and increased care cost. This study compares intraoperative and postoperative variables including procedure duration, components, length of stay, readmission, complications, and reoperations among patients undergoing conversion TKA.MethodsPrimary TKA from a single-surgeon database identified 130 patients with prior knee surgery to form a “conversion” cohort. One-to-one matching identified 130 patients of similar age, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, body mass index, and gender without prior knee surgery for comparison. Perioperative and 90-day postoperative variables were compared between patients with and without prior surgery, within the conversion group based on the type of prior surgery, and whether the prior surgery was bony or soft tissue.ResultsThe conversion group had longer mean operative time (96.1 vs 90.0 minutes, P = .01), higher revision component utilization (8.5% vs 0.8%, P = .005), and higher calculated blood loss (1440 vs 1249 mL, P = .004). Thirty-eight patients with prior fracture or osteotomy were compared to the remaining 92 patients in the conversion group and showed longer operative time (107.1 vs 91.3 minutes, P < .001), higher 90-day readmissions (18.4% vs 3.3%, P = .003), more complications (23.7% vs 8.7%, P = .021), and greater utilization of revision components (26.3% vs 1.1%, P < .001).ConclusionPatients undergoing conversion TKA required increased resource utilization, particularly patients with a prior osteotomy or fracture. Policymakers should consider these variables, as they did in conversion THA, in adding a code to account for increased case complexity and resource utilization.     

Acetabular fractures in elderly

BackgroundThis study aimed to determine characteristics of acetabular fractures in the elderly by evaluating clinical course and computed tomography-based radiological features between low- and high-energy acetabular fractures.MethodsWe reviewed 178 consecutive patients with acetabular fractures aged ≥60 years from six centers. Low-energy fractures (group 1) were identified in 23 (12.9%) patients and high-energy fractures (group 2) in 155 (87.1%) patients. We compared demographics, radiological findings, and clinical course between the groups.ResultsAverage age (70.6 vs. 67.8 years, p = 0.046) and ratio of females (47.8% vs. 23.2%, p = 0.021) were significantly higher in group 1 than in group 2. The Charlson comorbidity index was also higher in group 1, but no other demographics showed difference. More patients in group 2 than in group 1 underwent surgery (91.6% vs. 73.9%); however, more in group 1 underwent minimally invasive surgery (17.4% vs 4.5%). Anterior column-associated fracture patterns occurred in 91.4% and 38.7% of cases in groups 1 and 2, respectively. Most fractures were displaced (>2 mm); 68% of which were comminuted. Furthermore, 24.2% of the fractures had superior dome impaction, whereas 23.0% were associated with posterior wall impaction.ConclusionsPatients who sustained low-energy acetabular fractures were mostly women, were older, and had more comorbidities. Radiological findings of low-energy acetabular fractures showed anterior column involvement associated with injury to the quadrilateral surface. Additionally, it was observed to be commonly combined with comminution and impacted fragments.     

Early versus late tube feeding initiation after PEG tube placement: Does time to feeding matter?

BackgroundVariation exists in the timing of tube feed initiation after percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube placement. The aim of our study was to review outcomes of early tube feed (ETF) versus late tube feed (LTF) initiation after PEG tube placement.MethodsWe performed a retrospective review of all trauma patients who underwent PEG tube placement from 1/2014 to 12/2018. ETF was defined as initiation < 24 h and LTF > 24 h after placement. The primary outcome measure was feeding intolerance and secondary outcomes included post-operative complications. All statistical analyses were performed using standard statistical methods (e.g. Pearson's Chi-squared, Fisher's exact and Mann Whitney-U tests).ResultsThere were 295 patients (164 ETF and 131 LTF) that received a PEG tube at our level 1 trauma center. There was no difference with feeding intolerance at 12 h (5% vs. 4%; p = 0.88), 24 h (1% vs. 2%; p = 1.00), and 48 h (4% vs. 4%; p = 1.00). There was no difference when comparing intolerance symptoms such as nausea and vomiting (1% vs. 2%; p = 0.79), abdominal tenderness (2% vs. 3%; p = 0.76), high gastric residuals (2% vs. 2%; p = 1.00) and aspiration (0% vs. 2%; p = 0.39). There was no difference when comparing post-operative complications (4% vs. 8%; p = 0.21).ConclusionsEarly tube feeding after PEG placement is safe and equivalent to late tube feeding in the adult trauma population. Future prospective studies are warranted to establish the optimal timing for initiation of tube feeds after PEG tube placement.     

Is the placement of jejunostomy tubes in patients with esophageal cancer undergoing esophagectomy associated with increased inpatient healthcare utilization? An analysis of the National Readmissions Database

BackgroundPatients undergoing esophagectomy often receive jejunostomy tubes (j-tubes) for nutritional supplementation. We hypothesized that j-tubes are associated with increased post-esophagectomy readmissions.Study designWe identified esophagectomies for malignancy with (EWJ) or without (EWOJ) j-tubes using the 2010–2015 Nationwide Readmissions Database. Outcomes include readmission, inpatient mortality, and complications. Outcomes were compared before and after propensity score matching (PSM).ResultsOf 22,429 patients undergoing esophagectomy, 16,829 (75.0%) received j-tubes. Patients were similar in age and gender but EWJ were more likely to receive chemotherapy (24.2% vs. 15.1%, p < 0.01). EWJ was associated with decreased 180-day inpatient mortality (HR 0.72 [0.52–0.99]) but not with higher readmissions at 30- (15.2% vs. 14.0%, p = 0.16; HR 0.9 [0.77–1.05]) or 180 days (25.2% vs. 24.3%, p = 0.37; HR 0.94 [0.79–1.10]) or increased complications (p = 0.37). These results were confirmed in the PSM cohort.ConclusionJ-tubes placed in the setting of esophagectomy do not increase inpatient readmissions or mortality.     

Association between hospital surgical volume and complications after total hip arthroplasty in femoral neck fracture: A propensity score-matched cohort study

BackgroundFor displaced femoral neck fractures (FNF), total hip arthroplasty (THA) or hemiarthroplasty (HA) is preferred rather than fracture fixation. THA for patients with FNF requires skilled operators since patient with FNF likely to have osteoporosis and a higher risk of complications. Several reports suggest that higher hospital surgical volume was associated with a lower risk of complications after THA for osteoarthritis. However, little is known concerning this association with THA for FNF. Herein, we investigated the association between THA and complication and the recovery of physical function after THA to optimize the quality of FNF.MethodsA nationwide retrospective cohort study of elderly undergoing THA between April 1, 2011, to March 31, 2018 was performed. The association between hospital surgical volume and complication after THA for FNF was visually described with the restricted cubic spline regression analysis. Then the risk of complications was quantified with propensity score matching analysis based on the cutoff point identified by the restricted cubic spline curve. Primary outcome was secondary revision surgery, and the secondary outcomes included surgical and systemic complications, and the recovery of physical function at hospital discharge.ResultsBy visualization of the spline curve, we identified 20 cases per year as cutoff point of low hospital surgical volume. Following 1,396 patients’ propensity score-match analysis (mean age 75.2 [SD] 8.8, female 80.4%), the risk of secondary revision surgery was significantly higher among the low hospital surgical volume group (absolute risk difference (RD), 2.44%; p = 0.011). Also, the incidence of blood transfusion was higher in the low hospital surgical volume group (RD, 4.01%; p = 0.049). However, there was no significant difference in the recovery of the transferring and walking ability at discharge between high and low hospital surgical volume groups (63.5% vs 62.6%, 58.5% vs 57.5%; p = 0.74, 0.71, respectively).ConclusionOur research demonstrated that an increase in hospital surgical volume significantly reduced the incidence of secondary revision surgery after a certain inflection point, but not significantly improved short-term physical functions.     

Risk factors for complications within 30 days of operatively fixed periprosthetic femur fractures

BackgroundWith a rising number of periprosthetic femur fractures (PPFFs) each year, the primary objective of our study was to quantify risk factors that predict complications following operative treatment of PPFFs.MethodsA retrospective cohort study of 231 patients with a periprosthetic femur fracture was conducted at an Academic, Level 1 Trauma Center. The main outcome measurement of interest was complications, as defined by the ACS-NSQIP, within 30 days of surgery.Results56 patients had 96 complications. Bivariate analyses revealed ASA score, preoperative ambulatory status, length of stay, discharge disposition, time from admission to surgery, length of surgery, perioperative change in hemoglobin, Charlson comorbidity index, cerebral vascular accident/transient ischemic attack, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes mellitus, and receipt of a blood transfusion were associated with development of a complication (p < 0.1). Multivariate logistic regression showed length of stay (OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.03–1.19; p = 0.006), receipt of a blood transfusion (OR 2.48, 95% CI 1.14–5.42; p = 0.02), and diabetes mellitus (OR 2.17, 95% CI 1.03–4.56; p = 0.04) remained independently predictive of complication.ConclusionsLength of stay, receipt of a blood transfusion, and diabetes were associated with increased perioperative risk for developing a complication following operative treatment of periprosthetic femur fractures. Methods to decrease length of stay or transfusion rates may mitigate complication risk in these patients.Level of EvidencePrognostic, Level III     

Perioperative mortality and morbidity of hip fractures among COVID-19 infected and non-infected patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

PurposeHip fractures among elderly patients are surgical emergencies. During COVID-19 pandemic time, many such patients could not be operated at early time because of the limitation of the medical resources, the risk of infection and redirection of medical attention to a severe infective health problem.MethodsA search of electronic databases (PubMed, Medline, CINAHL, EMBASE and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) with the keywords “COVID”, “COVID-19″, “SARS-COV-2”, “Corona”, “pandemic”, “hip fracture”, “trochanteric fracture” and “neck femur fracture” revealed 64 studies evaluating treatment of hip fracture in elderly patients during COVID-19 pandemic time. The 30-day mortality rate, inpatient mortality rate, critical care/special care need, readmission rate and complications rate in both groups were evaluated. Data were analyzed using Review Manager (RevMan) V.5.3.ResultsAfter screening, 7 studies were identified that described the mortality and morbidity in hip fractures in both COVID-19 infected (COVID-19 +) and non-infected (COVID-19 −) patients. There were significantly increased risks of 30-day mortality (32.23% COVID-19 + death vs. 8.85% COVID-19 − death) and inpatient mortality (29.33% vs. 2.62%) among COVID-19 + patients with odds ratio (OR) of 4.84 (95% CI: 3.13 – 7.47, p < 0.001) and 15.12 (95% CI: 6.12 – 37.37, p < 0.001), respectively. The COVID-19 + patients needed more critical care admission (OR = 5.08, 95% CI: 1.49 – 17.30, p < 0.009) and they remain admitted for a longer time in hospital (mean difference = 3.6, 95% CI: 1.74 – 5.45, p < 0.001); but there was no difference in readmission rate between these 2 groups. The risks of overall complications (OR = 17.22), development of pneumonia (OR = 22.25), and acute respiratory distress syndrome/acute respiratory failure (OR = 32.96) were significantly high among COVID-19 + patients compared to COVID-19 − patients.ConclusionsThere are increased risks of the 30-day mortality, inpatient mortality and critical care admission among hip fracture patients who are COVID-19 +. The chances of developing pneumonia and acute respiratory failure are more in COVID-19 + patients than in COVID-19 ‒ patients.     

Senior surgical resident autonomy and teaching assistant cases: A prospective observational study

IntroductionTeaching assistant (TA) cases allow senior residents (SR) to gain autonomy. We compared the safety profiles of TA cases performed under direct vs. indirect staff supervision.MethodsProspective observational study of operative cases where a SR served as the TA between 7/2014-6/2017 (n = 161). Patient/operative characteristics, 30-day outcomes, and SR survey data were compared by level of supervision.ResultsCase mix included 68 laparoscopic appendectomies (42%), 49 laparoscopic cholecystectomies (30%), 10 I&Ds (6%), 10 umbilical hernia repairs (6%), 4 port placements (3%), and 11 others. Indirectly supervised cases were shorter (61 vs. 76 min, p < 0.01), with less blood loss (11 vs. 24 ml, p < 0.05), and lower conversion rates (0% vs. 5.7%, p < 0.05). Perceived difficulty was high in 20% of cases with indirect vs. 49% with direct supervision (p < 0.01). Mean SR comfort was high (4.4 vs. 4.6 out of 5) regardless of level of staff supervision. 30-day complications did not differ for indirect vs. direct supervision (all p = NS).DiscussionCarefully selected TA cases offer SRs opportunities to practice autonomy without sacrificing operative time or patient safety.     

Does N-terminal Pro-brain Type Natriuretic Peptide Predict Cardiac Complications After Hip Fracture Surgery?

Background

Elderly patients with hip fracture are at risk for cardiac complications. N-terminal pro-brain type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) has been shown to predict cardiac complications in surgical patients; however, to our knowledge, only two studies have evaluated the utility of this test in patients with hip fracture. We believe it is important to assess a more accurate cutoff value of NT-proBNP with exclusion of patients with renal failure.

Questions/Purposes

To assess the association between preoperative NT-proBNP and cardiac complications after hip fracture surgery.

Methods

We performed 450 surgical procedures in patients with hip fractures between January 2011 and December 2014. Exclusion criteria were renal dysfunction and inadequate laboratory tests. The final study population consisted of 328 patients (mean age, 83 years; 80% women). Preoperatively, measurement of NT-proBNP level was performed. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of cardiac complications within 14 days after surgery based on a chart review. The predictive value of NT-proBNP was assessed using multivariate logistic regression analysis, controlling for relevant confounding variables such as age, gender, body weight, and renal function; we also performed receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Postoperative cardiac complications were encountered in 7% of patients (24 of 328).

Results

The median preoperative NT-proBNP level was higher in patients with complications than in those without (1090 [interquartile range, 614–3191 pg/mL] vs 283 pg/mL [interquartile range, 137–507 pg/mL], p < 0.001). The cutoff level of NT-proBNP determined by ROC curve analysis was 600 pg/mL, with a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of 79%, 81%, 25%, and 98%, respectively, and the area under the ROC curve was 0.87 (95% CI, 0.80–0.94; p < 0.001). After controlling for potentially relevant confounding variables, we found a preoperative NT-proBNP greater than 600 pg/mL was associated with an increased risk of cardiac complications (odds ratio, 13; 95% CI, 4–38; p < 0.001) compared with those with NT-proBNP less than 600 pg/mL.

Conclusions

Preoperative NT-proBNP greater than 600 pg/mL is independently associated with postoperative cardiac complications in patients with hip fracture without renal dysfunction. NT-proBNP measurement provides additional information and is clinically useful for predicting cardiac complications during the early phase after hip fracture surgery. Future studies might develop a simple index for prediction of postoperative cardiac complication including cutoff values of NT-proBNP.

Level of Evidence

Level III, diagnostic study.

     

Impact of Hepatitis B virus infection on postoperative complications and length of stay in elderly patients with hip fracture: A retrospective cohort study

BackgroundOsteoporosis and subsequent fractures are common in the chronic hepatitis B (CHB) population, especially in the elderly. This study investigated the effects of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection on postoperative outcomes following hip fracture surgery.MethodsThe study identified elderly patients who underwent hip fracture surgery at three academic tertiary care centres between January 2014 and December 2020. Propensity score matching was performed to compare the outcomes of 1,046 patients with HBV infection to 1,046 controls.ResultsThe seroprevalence of HBV among elderly patients undergoing hip surgery was 4.94%. The HBV cohort had significantly higher rates of medical complications (28.1 vs. 22.7%, p = 0.005), surgical complications (14.0 vs. 9.7%, p = 0.003), and unplanned readmissions (18.9 vs. 14.5%, p = 0.03) within 90 days of surgery. Patients with HBV infection were more likely to have increased length of stay (6.2 vs. 5.9 days, p = 0.009) and in-hospital charges (¥52,231 vs. ¥49,832, p < 0.00001). Multivariate logistic regression suggested that liver fibrosis and thrombocytopenia were independent risk factors for major complications and extended LOS.ConclusionPatients with HBV infection were at greater risk of adverse postoperative outcomes. We should pay more attention to the considerable burden of perioperative management of CHB patients. Due to the high proportion of undiagnosed patients in the Chinese elderly population, universal HBV screening should be considered preoperatively.     

Pubic root fractures are commonly misread as anterior column fractures by radiologists: Single-institution study from a level 1 trauma center

BackgroundWe sought to determine how frequently pubic root fracture is incorrectly identified as anterior column fracture by radiologists and describe differences in characteristics and outcomes between injury patterns.MethodsWe identified 155 patients who sustained pelvic or acetabular fractures at a single, level 1 trauma academic institution. Pelvis computed tomography (CT) scans were evaluated to determine whether patients sustained an anterior column fracture or pubic root fracture. Demographic and clinical factors such as mortality, ambulatory status, type of treatment (nonoperative/surgery), and mechanism of energy were assessed.ResultsThere were a total of 83 patients in the anterior column group and 72 patients in the pubic root cohort. Eighty-five percent of pubic root fractures were read as anterior column fractures by radiologists. A total of 77.8% of pubic root fractures had posterior ring involvement. Patients with true anterior column acetabular fracture were more likely to need surgery (63.86% vs 41.70%, P = 0.01) and be discharged to skilled nursing or inpatient rehabilitation (59.04% vs 40.27%, P = 0.02) compared to patients with pubic root fracture.ConclusionPubic root fractures are frequently misread as anterior column fractures in radiology reports. Correctly diagnosing pubic root fractures and differentiating them from anterior column acetabular fractures can have significant impact on patients.Level of EvidenceIII, Therapeutic.     

Does Surgeon Fellowship Training Influence Outcomes in Hemiarthroplasty for Femoral Neck Fracture?

BackgroundThe aim of this study is to compare the outcomes (90 days and 1 year) of patients with femoral neck fracture undergoing hemiarthroplasty by surgeons with different fellowship training: trauma, arthroplasty, and general orthopedics.MethodsThis study is a retrospective review of consecutive patients undergoing hip hemiarthroplasty for femoral neck fracture from 2010 to 2018. Comorbidities, perioperative details, demographics, injury variables, and time-to-surgery were compared between the fellowship training cohorts, in addition to outcomes including dislocation, periprosthetic joint infection, and mortality at 90 days and 1 year.ResultsA total of 298 hips with an average age of 77.8 years underwent hemiarthroplasty for femoral neck fracture. Arthroplasty surgeons had a significantly shorter operative duration (82 minutes, P = .0014) and utilized the anterior approach more frequently (P < .0001). The general orthopedists had a significantly increased total surgical complication risk compared to both the arthroplasty and trauma fellowship-trained cohorts at both 90 days (11.8% vs 1.6% vs 3.9%, P = .015) and 1 year (18.2% vs 4.9% vs 7.1%, P = .008). The overall mortality risk was 11.7% at 90 days and 22.8% at 1 year. When adjusted for covariates, including comorbidities, gender, age, and preoperative walking capacity, both the arthroplasty fellowship-trained cohort (odds ratio 0.381, 95% confidence interval 0.159-0.912, P = .030) and the general orthopedist cohort (odds ratio 0.495; 95% confidence interval 0.258-0.952, P = .035) had reduced risk of 1-year mortality compared to the trauma fellowship-trained cohort.ConclusionHemiarthroplasty performed for femoral neck fractures may result in fewer complications when performed by arthroplasty fellowship-trained surgeons. An arthroplasty weekly on-call schedule and adjusted institutional protocols may be utilized to improve outcomes and reduce complications.Level of EvidenceLevel II, retrospective cohort.     

Comparison of time to healing and major complications after surgical fixation of nondisplaced femoral neck stress fractures: A systematic review

IntroductionThere is no recent literature review comparing outcomes of fixation methods for nondisplaced stress fractures of the femoral neck.MethodsA systematic review of the literature on operative fixation of femoral neck stress fractures was performed. Inclusion criteria consisted of diagnosis of nondisplaced femoral neck stress fractures, implants used for fixation, articles in English language or available English translation, all ages, and Level 1-5 evidence, documented time to healing, and incidence of complications. Statistical analysis was performed to compare outcomes.ResultsEight studies with 13 subjects and 15 fractures undergoing operative fixation were included. Six fracture were compression sided, five were tension sided, and four were complete. Radiographic healing occurred on average at 32.7 ± 36.3 weeks (range 8-121 weeks). Four subjects were noted to have a metabolic disturbance. Six subjects did not participate in vigorous exercise. There were no complications. There was no significant difference in radiographic healing time between: cannulated screws or SHS ± osteotomy (p = 0.21); compression sided, tension sided, or complete fractures (p = 0.41); ages (p = 0.09); sex (p = 0.09) or individuals with or without metabolic disturbances (p = 0.92). There was no difference between use of cannulated screw fixation, SHS + osteotomy, and SHS alone based on the subject's age (p = 0.27) or cannulated screw vs SHS ± osteotomy given subject's age (p = 0.19) or sex (p = 1.0). Time to full weight bearing (FWB) did not significantly differ between implants (p = 0.22). However, >8 weeks restricted weight bearing had increased healing times (p = 0.002).DiscussionTime to healing was not dependent on subjects’ sex or age, fracture location, implant choice, or presence of metabolic abnormality. No complications were reported. Time to full weight bearing was not dependent on implant choice. However, restricted weight bearing beyond 8 weeks can lead to prolonged healing times. Fixation should be safe, effective and promote early weight bearing and mobilization.     

Prior Pelvic Osteotomy Affects the Outcome of Subsequent Total Hip Arthroplasty

BackgroundAlthough pelvic osteotomy (PO) is an important surgical procedure that can alleviate symptoms and potentially slow progression of osteoarthritis in patients with development dysplasia of the hip, some patients eventually require conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA). This study aimed to determine the outcome of conversion THA in patients with prior PO.MethodsForty nine patients with a history of prior PO who underwent conversion THA at a single institution were matched at a 1:3 ratio based on the date of surgery, age, gender, and body mass index with 147 developmental dysplasia of the hip patients who underwent primary THA without prior PO. A retrospective chart review was performed to compare outcomes at a minimum follow-up of 2 years.ResultsPatients with prior PO required more supplemental screw fixation for the acetabular component (59.2% vs 38.1%, P = .016), more autologous bone grafting (24.5% vs 11.6%, P = .048), had a longer mean operative time (106.0 vs 79.8 minutes, P < .001), and greater estimated blood loss (350.0 vs 206.8 mL, P = .015). Patients with prior PO had smaller cup version angle (26.0° vs 29.0°, P = .012) and greater discrepancy in the limb length (10.3 vs 7.26 mm, P = .041). Eight hips (16.3%) with prior PO and 6 (4.1%) without osteotomy required reoperation (P = .008). There was no difference in outcome scores at the latest follow-up.Conclusion: THA after prior PO is technically demanding, leading to longer operative times, greater blood loss, and variation in implant placement. Although functional outcomes are similar, THA after a prior PO is more likely to require reoperation.ConclusionTHA after prior PO is technically demanding, leading to longer operative times, greater blood loss, and variation in implant placement. Although functional outcomes are similar, THA after a prior PO is more likely to require reoperation.