Incidence,Risk Factors,and Impact of Clostridium difficile Colitis Following Primary Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty

Background

An improved understanding of Clostridium difficile is important as it is used as a measure of hospital quality and is associated with substantial morbidity. This study utilizes the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program to determine the incidence, timing, risk factors, and clinical implications of C difficile colitis in patients undergoing primary total hip or knee arthroplasty (THA or TKA).

Comparison of Perioperative Adverse Event Rates After Total Knee Arthroplasty in Patients With Diabetes: Insulin Dependence Makes a Difference

Background

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is an effective treatment option for patients with advanced osteoarthritis and has become one of the most frequently performed orthopedic procedures. With the increasing prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM), the burden of its sequela and associated surgical complications has also increased. For these reasons, it is important to understand the association between DM and the rates of perioperative adverse events after TKA.

Comparison of Outpatient vs Inpatient Total Knee Arthroplasty: An ACS-NSQIP Analysis

Background

There has been a recent surge of interest in performing primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in the outpatient setting to reduce cost and increase patient satisfaction. Detailed information on the safety of outpatient TKA in large sample sizes is scarce.

Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty in Octogenarians: An Analysis of 957 Cases

Background

The number of octogenarians undergoing revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is increasing. However, there has been a lack of studies investigating the perioperative course and safety of revision TKA performed in this potentially vulnerable population in a large patient population. The purpose of this study is to compare complications following revision TKA between octogenarians and 2 younger patient populations (<70 and 70-79 year olds).

Ambulatory Ability and Personal Independence After Hemiarthroplasty and Total Arthroplasty for Intracapsular Hip Fracture: A Prospective Comparative Study

Background

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) has not only been associated with best functional outcomes but also with higher dislocation risk when compared with bipolar hemiarthroplasty (HA). The functionality and activities of daily living (ADL) of patients treated with THA or HA for intracapsular hip fracture (IHF) have been scarcely investigated in comparison with the preoperative status.

Abnormally High,as Well as Low,Preoperative Platelet Counts Correlate With Adverse Outcomes and Readmissions After Elective Total Knee Arthroplasty

BackgroundLaboratory studies are routinely performed as a part of the preoperative workup for a total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The ramifications of abnormal preoperative platelet counts remain uncharacterized in large, multicenter patient populations.MethodsPatients who underwent elective primary TKA were identified in the 2011-2015 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Risk of 30-day postoperative complications was calculated as a function of preoperative platelet counts. Patients were characterized as having a normal platelet count, abnormally low platelet count, and abnormally high platelet count based on relative risk calculations. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to associate abnormal platelet counts with patient demographics, operative variables, 30-day postoperative complications, and readmissions.ResultsIn total, 140,073 patients who underwent elective TKA were identified. Using the relative risk threshold of 1.5 for any adverse event, abnormally low and abnormally high platelet count thresholds were set at ≤116,000/mL and ≥492,000/mL, respectively. Multivariate analyses revealed low platelet counts to be associated with higher rates of any, major, and minor adverse events and longer length of stay. Analogously, high platelet counts were associated with higher rates of any and minor adverse events and longer length of stay.ConclusionThe present study employed a large patient sample size and showed that elective TKA patients with abnormally high, as well as low, platelet counts are at increased risk of postoperative adverse outcomes. Focused attention needs to be paid to TKA patients with preoperative abnormal platelet counts for optimization and postoperative care.Level of EvidenceLevel III, retrospective comparative study.     

Impact of Gender on 30-Day Complications After Primary Total Joint Arthroplasty

Background

Impact of gender on 30-day complications has been investigated in other surgical procedures but has not yet been studied in total hip arthroplasty (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Hospital and Surgeon Reimbursement Trends for Femoral Neck Fractures Treated With Hip Hemiarthroplasty and Total Hip Arthroplasty

BackgroundThe economic impact of hip fractures on the health care system continues to rise with continued pressure to reduce unnecessary costs while maintaining quality patient care. This study aimed to analyze the trend in hospital charges and payments relative to surgeon charges and payments in a Medicare population for hip hemiarthroplasty and total hip arthroplasty (THA) for femoral neck fracture.MethodsThe 5% Medicare sample database was used to capture hospital and surgeon charges and payments related to 32,340 patients who underwent hemiarthroplasty and 4323 patients who underwent THA for femoral neck fractures between 2005 and 2014. Two values were calculated: (1) charge multiplier (CM, ratio of hospital to surgeon charges), and (2) payment multiplier (PM, ratio of hospital to surgeon payments). Year-to-year variation and regional trends in patient demographics, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), length of stay (LOS), 90-day and 1-year mortality, CM, and PM were evaluated.ResultsHospital charges were significantly higher than surgeon charges and increased substantially for hemiarthroplasty (CM of 13.6 to 19.3, P < .0001) and THA (CM of 9.8 to 14.9, P = .0006). PM followed a similar trend for both hemiarthroplasty (14.9 to 20.2; P = .001) and THA (11.9 to 17.4; P < .0001). LOS decreased significantly for hemiarthroplasty (3.78 to 3.37d; P < .0001) despite increasing CCI (6.36 to 8.39; P = .018), whereas both LOS (3.71 to 3.79 days; P = .421) and CCI (5.34 to 7.08; P = .055) remained unchanged for THA.ConclusionHospital charges and payments relative to surgeon charges and payments have increased substantially for hemiarthroplasty and THA performed for femoral neck fractures.     

Health Utility of Early Hemiarthroplasty vs Delayed Total Hip Arthroplasty for Displaced Femoral Neck Fracture in Elderly Patients: A Markov Model

Background

Treatment for femoral neck fracture among patients aged 65 years or older varies, with many surgeons preferring hemiarthroplasty (HA) over total hip arthroplasty (THA). There is evidence that THA may lead to better functional outcomes, although it also carries greater risk of mortality and dislocation rates.

Outpatient and Inpatient Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty Procedures Have Similar Short-Term Complication Profiles

Background

Advances in surgical techniques and anesthesia have made performing unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) in the outpatient setting a possibility. The touted benefits of outpatient surgery include higher patient satisfaction and reduced costs. However, detailed information on the perioperative outcomes of outpatient compared with inpatient UKA in a large, national patient population in the United States has never been reported. The present study compares perioperative complications between outpatient and inpatient UKAs in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database.

Obesity and early complications following reduction mammaplasty: An analysis of 4545 patients from the 2005–2011 NSQIP datasets

Abstract

Reduction mammoplasty is a proven treatment for symptomatic macromastia, but the association between obesity and early postoperative complications is unclear. The purpose of this study was to perform a population level analysis in an effort to determine the impact of obesity on early complications after reduction mammaplasty. This study examined the 2005–2011 NSQIP datasets and identified all patients who underwent reduction mammoplasty. Patients were then categorised according to the World Health Organisation obesity classification. Demographics, comorbidities, and perioperative risk factors were identified among the NSQIP variables. Data was then analysed for surgical complications, wound complications, and medical complications within 30 days of surgery. In total, 4545 patients were identified; 54.4% of patients were obese (BMI > 30 kg/m²), of which 1308 (28.8%) were Class I (BMI = 30–34.9 kg/m²), 686 (15.1%) were Class II (BMI = 35–39.9 kg/m²), and 439 (9.7%) were Class III (BMI > 40 kg/m²). The presence of comorbid conditions increased across obesity classifications (p < 0.001), with significant differences noted in all cohort comparisons except when comparing class I to class II (p = 0.12). Early complications were rare (6.1%), with superficial skin and soft tissue infections accounting for 45.8% of complications. Examining any complication, a significant increase was noted with increasing obesity class (p < 0.001). This was further isolated when comparing morbidly obese patients to non-obese (p < 0.001), class I (p < 0.001), and class II (p = 0.01) patients. This population-wide analysis – the largest and most heterogeneous study to date – has demonstrated that increasing obesity class is associated with increased early postoperative complications. Morbidly obese patients are at the highest risk, with complications occurring in nearly 12% of this cohort.     

Conversion of Hip Hemiarthroplasty to Total Hip Arthroplasty Utilizing a Dual-Mobility Construct Compared With Large Femoral Heads

Background

Conversion of hemiarthroplasty to total hip arthroplasty (THA) has a historically high, up to 20%, postoperative dislocation rate. As such, dual-mobility (DM) constructs are an attractive option to mitigate this complication. We analyzed survivorship free of revision, complications, and clinical outcomes of hemiarthroplasties conversion to THAs utilizing DM constructs compared with large femoral heads (≥36 mm).

Outcomes of Total Hip Arthroplasty for Healed Intertrochanteric Hip Fractures. A Matched Retrospective Cohort Study

BackgroundMany studies have analyzed the outcomes of total hip arthroplasty (THA) after failed intertrochanteric fracture fixation, but not after healed fracture. The objective is to investigate the influence of a prior healed intertrochanteric fracture fixation on the outcomes of a subsequent THA for osteoarthritis.MethodsThis is a matched retrospective cohort study of THA between 43 patients who suffered a prior intertrochanteric fracture successfully managed with internal fixation and 43 patients without prior hip fracture. Mean age was 73.6 vs 74.2 years. A conventional cementless THA was used in both groups. Functional outcome was assessed by the Harris hip score (HHS) and reduced Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index questionnaire. Radiological assessment was also performed.ResultsMean follow-up was 6.6 (range, 5-8) years. The mean operative time and blood transfusion rate were significantly higher in the fracture group (P = .001), but there was no significant difference in the length of stay. HHS significantly improved in both groups. At final follow-up, HHS was significantly higher in nonfracture group (P = .008), but the rate of patients with excellent and good outcomes was similar (P = .616). Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index score at the final follow-up was not different between groups (P = .058). Complication rate was similar between groups. There were no revisions, dislocations, or loose implants in the study group.ConclusionCementless THA provided successful functional outcomes and implant durability at medium term in patients treated for osteoarthritis following healed intertrochanteric fracture fixation, comparable to those without prior fracture who underwent primary THA. Surgical complexity and complication rate were low.     

Total Hip Arthroplasty Revision Surgery: Impact of Morbidity on Perioperative Outcomes

BackgroundPrimary and revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) is increasingly performed in patients with high comorbidity burden. Its predominantly negative effects on outcomes are well understood in primary THA; however, the effects of morbidity on revision THA are unknown. Since revision procedures account for about 10% of the total surgical volume, we set out to investigate the effects of physical health status on perioperative outcomes in this setting.MethodsWe queried our prospectively collected institutional database for patients who underwent revision THA at our institution (Orthopedic University Hospital Friedrichsheim, Frankfurt) between 2007 and 2011. Patients were classified according to American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) category and number of comorbidities. Subsequently, their impact on perioperative parameters was analyzed.ResultsOur database revealed 294 cases of revision THA during the study period. Patients preoperatively classified as ASA 3 and 4 showed significantly higher rates of intraoperative and postoperative complications, transfusions, prolonged intensive care unit (ICU) stay, and total length of stay (LOS) compared to patients classified as ASA 1 and 2. Similarly, patients with >3 comorbidities presented with significantly elevated postoperative complications, ICU stay, and LOS. Particularly, preoperative cardiac diseases were associated with increased blood loss, transfusions, duration of surgery, postoperative complications, ICU stay, LOS, and re-revisions.ConclusionPoor physical health condition is associated with negative perioperative outcomes in revision THA. Especially cardiac comorbidities are linked to unfavorable outcomes, which have important implications for assessment of perioperative risk.     

Total Hip Arthroplasty is Less Painful at 12 Months Compared with Hemiarthroplasty in Treatment of Displaced Femoral Neck Fracture

Objectives The Displaced Femoral (neck fracture) Arthroplasty Consortium for Treatment and Outcomes (DFACTO) study compared total hip arthroplasty (THA) to hemiarthroplasty in the treatment of displaced femoral neck fractures. Design This study was designed as a prospective, randomized clinical trial. Setting The study was conducted in five US academic and private medical centers. Patients Patients were composed of independent, mentally competent individuals, >50 years old who suffered a displaced femoral neck fracture without existing arthritis at the hip. Forty-one patients were enrolled. Main outcome measures Functional outcomes and quality of life were assessed at 6 and 12 months post-fracture using the SF-36, Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), the Harris Hip Score, and the Timed “Up & Go” Test (TUG test). Results Groups were equivalent at baseline in terms of age, comorbid conditions, and functional status. At 6 months, there were no significant differences between the groups using the outcome measures or overall rates of complications. There was one dislocation in the THA group (5.8% of patients). At 12 months, the THA group reported significantly less pain (53.2 ± 10.2) than the hemiarthroplasty group (42.4 ± 11.5) using the SF-36 (p = 0.02). Using the TUG Test, we observed a greater proportion of THA patients remain functionally independent 1 year after surgery compared the hemiarthroplasty group (p = 0.08, controlling for age and sex). Conclusions These differences in pain and functional outcomes suggest THA is a viable treatment option for the active elderly displaced femoral neck fracture population. Level of Evidence: Level I: Randomized controlled trial. DFACTO Consortium: Christopher B. Michelsen, Catherine A. Compito, Justin Greisberg, Ohannes A. Nercessian, Howard A. Kiernan, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; John F. Tilzey, Michael S. Thompson, Bernard A. Pfeifer, Lawrence M. Specht, Anthony H. Presutti, Lahey Clinic, Burlington, MA; Brian S. Parsley, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX; Steven M. Teeny, Julian S. Arroyo, Dale L. Hirz, Alan B. Thomas, NorthWest Orthopaedic Institute, Tacoma, WA; Kevin L. Garvin, Todd Sekundiak, Matthew A. Morinino, Edward V. Ferhringer, Erik T. Otterberg, Univ. of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE.     

The Conversion Rate of Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty after a Hip Fracture to a Total Hip Arthroplasty

Background

Bipolar hip hemiarthroplasty is used in the management of fractures of the proximal femur. The dual articulation is cited as advantageous in comparison to unipolar prostheses as it decreases acetabular erosion, has a lower dislocation rates and is easier to convert to a total hip arthroplasty (THA) should the need arise. However, these claims are debatable. Our study examines the rate of conversion of the bipolar hemiarthroplasty to THA and the justification for using it on the basis of future conversion to THA.

Methods

All cases of bipolar hemiarthroplasty performed in our unit for hip fractures over a 9-year period (1999-2007) were reviewed. Medical notes and radiographs of all patients were reviewed, and all surviving patients that were contactable received a telephone follow-up.

Results

Of all 164 patients reviewed with a minimum of 1 year from date of surgery, 4 patients had undergone a conversion of their bipolar prosthesis to THA. Three conversions were performed for infection, dislocation, and fracture. Only one (0.6%) conversion was performed for groin pain.

Conclusions

Our study show that bipolar hemiarthroplasties for hip fractures have a low conversion rate to THAs and this is comparable to the published conversion rate of unipolar hemiarthroplasties.     

Minimum Five-Year Outcomes of Hip Resurfacing: Propensity-Score Matched Against Total Hip Arthroplasty Control Groups

BackgroundThe aim of this study is to evaluate clinical outcomes of patients undergoing Birmingham hip resurfacing (BHR) with a minimum 5-year follow-up and compare these outcomes to 2 matched control groups of patients undergoing either direct anterior approach (DAA) or posterior approach (PA) total hip arthroplasty (THA).MethodsData between September 2008 and April 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Male patients were included if they underwent a THA or BHR with minimum 5-year patient-reported outcomes. BHR patients were propensity-score matched in a 1:1 ratio to 2 control groups of patients: one group who underwent DAA THA and one group who underwent PA THA.ResultsFifty BHR patients were propensity-score matched to 2 control groups: 50 cases of PA THA and 50 cases of DAA THA. Both control groups were well matched with respect to demographics. The BHR 5-year patient-reported outcomes were comparable to both control groups. The BHR cohort compared favorably to the PA THA group with no significant differences in their average Forgotten Joint Score (77.9, 79.4, P = .84 respectively) and the number of patients reporting a score greater than or equal to 50 were also comparable, 41 (82%), 42 (84%), P = .79 respectively.ConclusionBHR yielded good functional status and outcomes, which compared favorably with control groups of DAA THA and PA THA. Decision-making should be based upon other factors such as potential risk factors, the surgeon’s and patient’s preferences, and the patient’s physical demand.     

The Cost of Unnecessary Hospital Days for Medicare Joint Arthroplasty Patients Discharging to Skilled Nursing Facilities

Background

The 72-hour Medicare mandate (3-night stay rule) requires a 3-day inpatient stay for patients discharging to skilled nursing facilities (SNFs). Studies show that 48%-64% of Medicare total joint arthroplasty (TJA) patients are safe for discharge to SNFs on postoperative day (POD) #2. The purpose of this study was to extrapolate the financial impact of the 3-night stay rule.

Effect of Spinal Fusion Surgery on Total Hip Arthroplasty Outcomes: A Matched Comparison Study

Background

Studies regarding postoperative outcomes after primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) in patients who have comorbid factors tend to focus on medical diseases. However, there is a paucity of literature examining the effect of a patient's orthopedic surgical history on outcomes after THA. Significantly, there are currently no studies on the effect of spinal fusion surgery on THA outcomes.

No Difference Between Hemiarthroplasty and Total Hip Arthroplasty in the Treatment of Pathologic Femoral Neck Fractures

BackgroundHemiarthroplasty (HA) and total hip arthroplasty (THA) have been widely discussed as treatment options for displaced osteoporotic femoral neck fractures. Pathologic femoral neck fractures from primary or metastatic tumors are comparatively rare and poorly investigated. The purpose of this study was to compare outcomes, complications, and perioperative survival for HA and THA in the treatment of pathologic femoral neck fractures of neoplastic etiology.MethodsA multicenter retrospective cohort study identified patients with pathologic femoral neck fractures treated with HA or THA from 2005 to 2018. Demographics, American Society of Anesthesiologists classification, Charlson comorbidity index, Dorr classification, histopathologic diagnosis, and surgical data were compared. The primary outcome was reoperation. Secondary outcomes included 90-day mortality, estimated blood loss, length of stay, periprosthetic fracture, periprosthetic joint infection, and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status.ResultsThere were 116 patients with HA and 48 patients with THA, with no differences between groups with regard to American Society of Anesthesiologists classification, Charlson comorbidity index, or Dorr classification. There were no differences between HA and THA in the primary outcome of reoperation (5.2% vs 4.2%, P = 1.00) or secondary outcomes of perioperative 90-day overall mortality (30.2% vs 25.0%, P = .51), estimated blood loss, transfusion rates, length of stay, discharge location, periprosthetic joint infection, periprosthetic fracture, or preoperative or postoperative Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status.ConclusionsBoth HA and THA are viable options for the treatment of patients with pathologic femoral neck fractures and demonstrated no differences in reoperations, complications, perioperative 90-day mortality, or functional outcome scores.Level of EvidenceLevel III.