Perioperative Systemic Dexamethasone Reduces Length of Stay in Total Joint Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

BackgroundThe objective of this review is to examine the effect of perioperative systemic corticosteroids at varying doses and timings on early postoperative recovery outcomes following unilateral total knee and total hip arthroplasty. The primary outcome was length of stay (LOS).MethodsA systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials was performed. MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from inception to June 1, 2020. Studies comparing the outcome of adult patients receiving a systemic steroid to patients who did not receive steroids were included.ResultsSeventeen studies were included, incorporating 1957 patients. Perioperative corticosteroids reduced hospital LOS (mean difference [MD] = ?0.39 days, 95% confidence interval [CI] ?0.61 to ?0.18). A subsequent dose of corticosteroid at 24 hours further reduced LOS (MD = ?0.33, 95% CI ?0.55 to ?0.11). Corticosteroids resulted in reduced levels of pain on postoperative day (POD) 0 (MD = ?1.99, 95% CI ?3.30 to ?0.69), POD1 (MD = ?1.47, 95% CI ?2.15 to ?0.79), and POD2. Higher doses were more effective in reducing pain with activity on POD0 (P = .006) and 1 (P = .023). Steroids reduced the incidence of PONV on POD1 (log odds ratio [OR] = ?1.05, 95% CI ?1.26 to ?0.84) and POD2, with greater effect at higher doses (P = .046). Corticosteroids did not increase the incidence of infection (P = 1.000), venous thromboembolism (P = 1.000), or gastrointestinal hemorrhage (P = 1.000) but were associated with an increase in blood glucose (MD = 5.30 mg/dL, 95% CI 2.69-7.90).ConclusionPerioperative corticosteroids are safe, facilitate earlier discharge, and improve patient recovery following unilateral total knee arthroplasty and total hip arthroplasty. Higher doses (15-20 mg of dexamethasone) are associated with further reductions in dynamic pain and PONV, and repeat dosing may further reduce LOS.     

Are Patients Being Appropriately Selected for Same-Day Discharge Total Knee Arthroplasty?

BackgroundDecreased cost associated with same-day discharge (SDD) total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has led to an increased interest in this topic. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether there is a population of TKA patients in which SDD has similar rates of 30-day complications compared to patients discharged on postoperative day 1 or 2.MethodsUsing the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database from 2012 to 2018, 6,327 TKA patients who had a SDD (length of stay [LOS] = 0) were matched to TKA patients who had an LOS of 1 or 2 days. All SDD patients were successfully matched 1:1 using the morbidity probability variable (a composite variable of demographics, comorbidities, and laboratory values). Patients were divided into quartiles based on their morbidity probability. Bivariate logistic regressions were then used to compare any complication and major complication rates in the SDD quartiles to the corresponding quartiles with an LOS of 1 or 2 days.ResultsWhen comparing the 1st quartiles (healthiest), there was no difference between the cohorts in any complication (odds ratio [OR] = 0.960, 95% CI 0.552-1.670, P = .866) and major complications (OR = 0.999, 95% CI = 0.448-2.231, P = .999). The same was observed in quartile 2 (any complications: OR = 1.161, 95% CI = 0.720-1.874, P = .540). Comparing the third quartiles, there was an increase in all complications with SDD (OR = 1.784, 95% CI = 1.125-2.829, P = .014), but no difference in major complications (OR = 1.635, 95% CI = 0.874-3.061, P = .124). Comparing the fourth quartiles (least healthy), there was an increase in all complications (OR = 1.384, 95% CI = 1.013-1.892, P = .042) and major complications (OR = 1.711, 95% CI = 1.048-2.793, P = .032) with SDD.ConclusionThe unhealthiest 50% of patients in this study who underwent SDD TKA were at an increased risk of having any complication, calling into question the current state of patient selection for SDD TKA.Level of EvidenceIII.     

Duloxetine for the treatment acute postoperative pain in adult patients: A systematic review with meta-analysis

BackgroundDuloxetine administered during the acute perioperative period has been associated with lesser postoperative pain and analgesic consumption.Study objectivesThe study aimed to quantify the pooled effects of duloxetine on postoperative pain, analgesic consumption, and side-effects in the first 48 postoperative (PO) hours.DesignSystematic review with meta-analysis.SettingPostoperative pain management.PatientsAdult patients undergoing elective surgery.Search strategy and study selection. Medline, Cochrane, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and Web of Science were searched without language restrictions for prospective, parallel randomized controlled trials comparing duloxetine to placebo for the management of postoperative pain in adult patients.MeasurementsPain scores (11-point scales), opioid consumption (i.v. morphine equivalents), and frequency of side-effects were compared between duloxetine and placebo. Effect sizes were summarized as mean differences (MD), standardized mean differences (SMD) or risk ratios (RR) with the respective 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria were used to classify the quality of evidence.ResultsThirteen studies were included. Duloxetine decreased pain at 24 h (MD = −0.66 points; 95% CI = −1.14 to −0.19 points; SMD = −0.59; 95% CI = −1.06 to −0.12; p = 0.01; I2 = 88%), and at 48 PO hours (MD = −0.90 points; 95% CI = −1.54 to −0.26 points; SMD = −0.66; 95% CI = −0.94 to −0.38; p = 0.01; I2 = 93%); and opioid consumption at 24 PO hours (MD = −8.21 mg; 95% CI = −13.32 mg to −3.10 mg; SMD = −2.17; 95% CI = −3.10 to −1.24; p < 0.001; I2 = 95%), and at 48 PO hours (MD = 7.71 mg; 95% CI = −13.86 mg to −1.56 mg; SMD = −2.13; 95% CI = −3.51 to −0.75; p = 0.02; I2 = 97%). Duloxetine did not affect the prevalence of postoperative nausea and/or vomiting (PONV) pruritus, headache or dizziness. High inter-study heterogeneity and within-study bias resulted in very-low quality of evidence for the primary outcomes.ConclusionsAlthough statistically significant effects of duloxetine were found on postoperative pain and opioid consumption during the first 48 postoperative hours, the effect sizes were below the expected minimal clinically relevant differences. Also, high risk-of-bias and inter-study heterogeneity caused the very-low quality of evidence (GRADE). We conclude that the currently available evidence does not support the clinical use of duloxetine for the management of acute postoperative pain.     

Predicting in-hospital mortality for dementia patients after hip fracture surgery – A comparison between the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) and the Elixhauser Comorbidity Index

BackgroundConsiderable in-hospital mortality was reported in geriatric patients with dementia sustaining femoral neck or inter-trochanteric fracture. We intended to establish a predictive model of in-hospital mortality for dementia patients after hip fracture surgery.MethodsWe collected 8080 registrants ≧ 65 years old from the subset (LHID2000) of the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) that met the following inclusion criteria:1. Admitted with the ICD of hip fracture; 2. Underwent operation of hip fracture during the same hospitalization; 3. Co-existing diagnosis of dementia (ICD-9-CM codes 290). The co-morbidity was recorded according to validated Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) and Elixhauser Comorbidity Index (ECI) from the diagnoses of hospitalization. The main outcome measure was in-hospital mortality that was defined as death being reported during hospitalization. The comparison of predictability was conducted by Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) among different predictive models.ResultsThe Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) score and Elixhauser Comorbidity Index (ECI) score showed similar ability in predicting in-hospital mortality (AUC = 0.653, 95% CI = 0.611–0.695 for CCI; AUC = 0.624, 95% CI = 0.582–0.665 for ECI, p = 0.0717). By adding age grouping (≥80 yrs = 1, 65–80 yrs = 0) and gender difference (Male = 1, Female = 0), these two models were shifted to models CCI_new1 and ECI_new1. Consequently, the AUC greatly increased in the CCI_new1 (AUC = 0.682, 95% CI = 0.643–0.722). It therefore provided better prediction of in-hospital mortality than ECI_new1 (AUC = 0.651, 95% CI = 0.611–0.691) (p = 0.0444).ConclusionsUtilizing the CCI with addition of grouping for age and gender provides a better prediction for in-hospital mortality than the ECI among elderly patients with concomitant dementia and hip fracture who underwent surgical intervention.     

The Association of Race/Ethnicity and Total Knee Arthroplasty Outcomes in a Universally Insured Population

BackgroundPrior studies have documented racial/ethnic disparities in the United States for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) outcomes. One factor cited as a potential mediator is unequal access to care. We sought to assess whether racial/ethnic disparities persist in a universally insured TKA population.MethodsA US integrated health system’s total joint replacement registry was used to identify elective primary TKA (2000-2016). Racial/ethnic differences in revision and 90-day postoperative events (readmission, emergency department [ED] visit, infection, venous thromboembolism, and mortality) were analyzed using Cox proportional hazard and logistic regression with adjustment for confounders.ResultsOf 129,402 TKA, 68.8% were white, 16.2% were Hispanic, 8.4% were black, and 6.6% were Asian. Compared to white patients, Hispanic patients had lower risks of septic revision (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.69, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.57-0.83) and infection (odds ratio [OR] = 0.42, 95% CI = 0.30-0.59), but a higher likelihood of ED visit (OR = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.22-1.34). Black patients had higher risks of aseptic revision (HR = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.42-1.83), readmission (OR = 1.13, 95% CI = 1.02-1.24), and ED visit (OR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.23-1.39). Asian patients had lower risks of aseptic revision (HR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.54-0.83), septic revision (HR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.60-0.99), readmission (OR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.79-1.00), and venous thromboembolism (OR = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.45-0.78).ConclusionWe observed differences in TKA outcome, even within a universally insured population. While lower risks in some outcomes were observed for Asian and Hispanic patients, the higher risks of aseptic revision and readmission for black patients and ED visit for black and Hispanic patients warrant further research to determine reasons for these findings to mitigate disparities.Level of EvidenceLevel III.     

Predicting Inpatient Status After Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty in Medicare-Aged Patients

BackgroundThe Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) removed total knee arthroplasty (TKA) from its inpatient only (IPO) list as of January 1, 2018. The purpose of this study was to establish a risk-stratifying nomogram to aid in determining the need for inpatient admission among Medicare-aged patients undergoing primary TKA.MethodsThe American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried to identify all patients aged ≥65 years who underwent primary TKA between 2006 and 2015. The primary outcome measure was inpatient admission, as defined by hospital length of stay longer than 2 days. Multiple demographic, comorbid, and perioperative variables were incorporated in a multivariate logistic regression model to yield a risk stratification nomogram.ResultsSixty-one thousand two hundred eighty-four inpatient and 26,066 outpatient admissions were analyzed. Age >80 years (odds ratio [OR] = 2.27, P < .0001, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.13-2.42), simultaneous bilateral TKA (OR = 2.02, P < .0001, 95% CI = 1.77-2.30), dependent functional status (OR = 1.95, P < .0001, 95% CI = 1.62-2.35), metastatic cancer (OR = 1.91, P = .055, 95% CI = 0.99-3.73), and female gender (OR = 1.76, P < .0001, 95% CI = 1.70-1.82) were the greatest determinants of inpatient stay. The resulting predictive model demonstrated acceptable discrimination and excellent calibration.ConclusionOur model enabled a reliable and straightforward identification of the most suitable candidates for inpatient admission in Medicare aged–patients undergoing primary TKA. Larger multicenter studies are necessary to externally validate the proposed predictive nomogram.     

Clinical and Patient-Reported Outcomes of Medial Stabilized Versus Non–Medial Stabilized Prostheses in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BackgroundThe aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare the clinical and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) of medial stabilized total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with non–medial stabilized TKAs.MethodsA systematic search of multiple databases was conducted in October 2019. A meta-analysis was conducted for the Knee Society Score (KSS), Knee Society Functional Score (KFS), range of motion (ROM), Oxford Knee Score (OKS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and Forgotten Joint Score (FJS).ResultsA total of 857 articles yielded 21 studies eligible for inclusion with 13 studies used for quantitative analysis. The meta-analysis revealed that the medial stabilized group had a mean FJS that was 13.8 points higher than that of the non–medial stabilized TKA (mean difference [MD]: 13.83, P ≤ .0001, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 8.90-18.76, I² = 0%) which was less than the minimal clinically important difference of 14. The medial stabilized group also demonstrated a statistically significant difference in the postoperative ROM (MD = 2.52, P = .05, 95% CI: ?0.03 to 5.07, I² = 85%) and OKS when compared with the non–medial stabilized group (MD = 1.25, P = .02, 95% CI: 0.17-2.33, I² = 27%), but these were not clinically significant. There was no statistically or clinically significant difference in the KSS, KFS, and WOMAC scores.ConclusionMedial stabilized knee prostheses demonstrated no clinically significant differences for the ROM, OKS, WOMAC, KSS, and KFS. The FJS demonstrated the greatest MD and warrants further investigation. Future research is required using patient-reported outcome measures with a lower ceiling effect such as the FJS.     

Surgeon Reimbursement Unchanged as Hospital Charges and Reimbursements Increase for Total Joint Arthroplasty

BackgroundDespite increasing demands on physicians and hospitals to increase value and reduce unnecessary costs, reimbursement for healthcare services has been under downward pressure for several years. This study aimed to analyze the trend in hospital charges and payments relative to corresponding surgeon charges and payments in a Medicare population for total hip (THA) and knee arthroplasty (TKA).MethodsThe 5% Medicare sample database was used to capture hospital and surgeon charges and payments related to 56,228 patients who underwent primary THA and 117,698 patients who underwent primary TKA between 2005 and 2014. Two values were calculated: (1) the charge multiplier (CM), the ratio of hospital to surgeon charges and (2) the payment multiplier (PM), the ratio of hospital to surgeon payments. Year-to-year variation and regional trends in patient demographics, Charlson Comorbidity Index, length of stay (LOS), CM, and PM were evaluated.ResultsHospital charges were significantly higher than surgeon charges and increased substantially for both THA (CM increased from 8.7 to 11.5, P < .0001) and TKA (CM increased from 7.9 to 11.4, P < .0001). PM followed a similar trend, increasing for both THA and TKA (P < .0001). LOS decreased significantly for both THA and TKA (P < .0001), while Charlson Comorbidity Index remained stable. Both CM (r² = 0.84 THA, 0.90 TKA) and PM (r² = 0.75 THA, 0.84 TKA) were strongly negatively associated with LOS.ConclusionHospital charges and payments relative to surgeon charges and payments have increased substantially for THA and TKA despite stable patient complexity and decreasing LOS.     

Does diabetes mellitus change the carpal tunnel release outcomes? Evidence from a systematic review and meta-analysis

Study DesignA systematic review and meta-analysis.IntroductionCarpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is one of the most common upper extremity conditions which mostly affect women. Management of patients suffering from both CTS and diabetes mellitus (DM) is challenging, and it was suggested that DM might affect the diagnosis as well as the outcome of surgical treatment.Purpose of the StudyThis meta-analysis was aimed to compare the response with CTS surgical treatment in diabetic and nondiabetic patients.MethodsElectronic databases were searched to identify eligible studies comparing the symptomatic, functional, and neurophysiological outcomes between diabetic and nondiabetic patients with CTS. Pooled MDs with 95% CIs were applied to assess the level of outcome improvements.ResultsTen articles with 2869 subjects were included. The sensory conduction velocities in the wrist-palm and wrist–middle finger segments showed a significantly better improvement in nondiabetic compared with diabetic patients (MD = −4.31, 95% CI = −5.89 to −2.74, P < .001 and MD = −2.74, 95% CI = −5.32 to −0.16, P = .037, respectively). However, no significant differences were found for the improvement of symptoms severity and functional status based on the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire as well as motor conduction velocities and distal motor latencies.ConclusionMetaresults revealed no significant difference in improvements of all various outcomes except sensory conduction velocities after CTS surgery between diabetic and nondiabetic patients. A better diabetic neuropathy care is recommended to achieve better sensory recovery after CTS surgery in diabetic patients.     

Cemented Total Knee Arthroplasty Shows Less Blood Loss but a Higher Rate of Aseptic Loosening Compared With Cementless Fixation: An Updated Meta-Analysis of Comparative Studies

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to update the current evidence on functional outcomes, complications, and reoperation rates between cemented and cementless total knee arthroplasty (TKA) by evaluating comparative studies published over the past 15 years.MethodsThe PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and the Cochrane Central databases were used to search keywords and a total of 18 studies were included. Random and fixed effect models were used for the meta-analysis of pooled mean differences (MDs) and odds ratios (ORs).ResultsA total of 5,222 patients were identified with a mean age of 64.4 ± 9.4 and 63 ± 8.6 years for the cemented and cementless TKA groups, respectively. The mean follow-up was 107.9 ± 30 and 104.3 ± 10 months for the cemented and cementless TKA groups, respectively. Cemented TKA showed a significantly greater postoperative Knee Society Score (MD = ?0.95, 95% CI [?1.57, 0.33], P = .003) and range of motion (MD = ?1.09, 95% CI [?1.88, ?0.29], P = .0007), but no differences in other outcome scores were found. The incidence of periprosthetic joint infection, radiolucent lines, instability, and polyethylene wear was also comparable. Cemented TKA showed less perioperative blood loss (SMD = ?438.41, 95% CI [?541.69, ?35.14], P < .0001) but a higher rate of manipulation under anesthesia (OR = 3.39, 95% CI [1.64, 6.99], P = .001) and aseptic loosening (OR = 1.62, 95% CI [1.09, 2.41], P = .02) than cementless TKA. No differences were found in terms of the reoperation rate.ConclusionWhen cemented and cementless fixations are compared in primary TKA, comparable functional outcomes and reoperation rates can be achieved. Cemented TKA showed less blood loss but a higher rate of manipulation under anesthesia and aseptic loosening.     

Minimally invasive anterolateral approach versus lateral transmuscular approach for total hip arthroplasty: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundTotal hip arthroplasty (THA) using a minimally invasive (MI) approach is a commonly performed procedure, and several approaches are now being used clinically. The MI anterolateral (MIAL) approach is one of the MI approaches used in clinical practice. Whether the MIAL approach is superior to non-MI approaches remains controversial. To resolve this controversy, we performed a systematic review and a meta-analysis of results of THA procedures that used the MIAL approach. We assessed whether the MIAL approach was superior to the lateral transmuscular (LT) approach in terms of operative time, operative blood loss, radiological parameters, and clinical outcomes.MethodsWe performed a methodical search for all literature published on PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library, and pooled data using the RevMan software. A p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. We calculated the mean differences (MD) for continuous data with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for each outcome.ResultsThis meta-analysis included 6 studies. Pooled results indicated no statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of operative time (MD = 5.13, 95% CI -2.49 to 12.75, p = 0.19), cup abduction angle (MD = 1.64, 95% CI -1.32 to 4.60, p = 0.28), and cup anteversion angle (MD = 0.75, 95% CI -1.09 to 2.59, p = 0.43). Operative blood loss was significantly greater in those who underwent THA via the MIAL approach than those who underwent THA via the LT approach (MD = 68.01, 95% CI 14.69 to 121.33, p = 0.01). The postoperative Harris hip score (HHS) assessed at the time of final follow-up was significantly higher in those who underwent THA via the MIAL approach than those who underwent THA via the LT approach (MD = 1.41, 95% CI 0.50 to 2.33, p = 0.002).ConclusionWe conclude that the MIAL approach is superior to the LT approach in terms of clinical outcomes.Level of evidenceLevel Ⅱ     

Does Productivity-Based Physician Compensation Affect Surgical Rates for Elective Arthroplasty Surgery?

BackgroundSurgeon compensation models could potentially influence the utilization of elective procedures. We assessed whether transitioning from salaried to a relative value unit (RVU) productivity-based physician compensation model changed the surgical rate and patient selection in elective total hip and knee arthroplasty (THA and TKA) procedures.MethodsOur institution transitioned from salaried to RVU productivity-based reimbursement in July 2016. We performed a retrospective analysis on patients undergoing primary THA and TKA from July 2014 to July 2018 before and after the transition (salary period n = 820; RVU period n = 1188). Beta regression was used to determine the reimbursement structure as a predictor of surgery. The surgical rate was defined as the number of primary THA and TKA procedures per reimbursement period divided by all arthroplasty and osteoarthritis outpatient clinic encounters.ResultsThere was a surgical rate of 15.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] 13.8%-17.8%) THA and 16.7% (95% CI 15.1%-18.1%) TKA procedures during RVU reimbursement compared to 11.1% (95% CI 9.8%-12.8%) THA and 11.7% (95% CI 10.5%-12.8%) TKA procedures during the salaried period (P < .001). The adjusted odds of undergoing a THA or TKA procedure increased in the RVU compared to the salaried model (THA odds ratio 1.48, 95% CI 1.43-1.53; TKA odds ratio 1.50, 95% CI 1.46-1.55; P < .001). There were no significant differences in patient age, gender, race, body mass index, or Charlson Comorbidity Index in salaried vs RVU productivity periods (P > .05 for all covariates).ConclusionsProductivity-based physician compensation may encourage higher rates of elective arthroplasty procedures without broadening patient selection.     

Peripheral nerve-blocks and associations with length of stay and readmissions in fast-track total hip and knee arthroplasty

Background

Peripheral nerve blocks (PNB) have recently been recommended in total hip (THA) and knee (TKA) arthroplasty as they may reduce pain, morphine consumption, length of stay (LOS) and complications. However, whether PNBs are associated with early discharge within an enhanced recovery protocol including multimodal analgesia is uncertain.

Methods

An observational multicenter study from January to August 2017 in six Danish Arthroplasty Centers with established fast-track protocols. Prospective recording of preoperative characteristics and information on PNB, LOS and readmissions through the Danish National Patient Registry and medical records. Multiple logistic regression was used to investigate associations between PNB and a LOS >1 day, LOS >4 days, and 30-days readmissions. We also reported on mobilization, pain, opioid and fall-related complications leading to LOS >4 days or readmissions.

Results

A total of 2027 (58.6%) THA and 1432 (41.4%) TKAs with a median LOS of 1 day (IQR 1–2) and 5.3% (CI:4.6–6.1) 30-days readmission rate were identified. PNB was used in 40.7% (CI:38.2–43.3) of TKA and 2.7% (CI:2.0–3.5) of THA, but with considerable interdepartmental variation (0.0–89.0% for TKA). There was no association between PNB and LOS >1 day (OR:1.19 CI:0.82–1.72; p = .354), LOS >4 days (OR:1.4 CI:0.68–2.89; p = .359) or 30-days readmissions (OR:1.02 CI:0.63–1.65; p = .935) in TKA. Logistic regression in THA was not possible due to limited use of PNB. In TKA there were 12 (2.1% CI:1.2–3.6) with and 1 (0.1% CI:0.02–0.7) without a PNB, who had mobilization, pain or opioid-related complications, and 5 (0.9% CI:0.4–2.0) versus 4 (0.5% CI:0.2–1.2) who fell. Correspondingly, 2 (3.7% CI:1.0–12.6) and 11 (0.6% CI:0.3–1.0) of THA patients had these complications, while 0 (0.0% CI:0.0–6.6) and 17 (0.8% CI:0.5–1.3) fell.

Conclusion

Routine use of peripheral nerve blocks was not associated with early discharge or 30-days readmissions in fast-track THA and TKA. Future studies should focus on benefits of PNB in high-risk patients.     

Sport and Physical Activity Following Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BackgroundThis systematic review and meta-analysis aims to analyze the sport habits of patients before and after primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) by answering the following questions: (1) Is there a postoperative improvement of sport activity based on validated activity scores? (2) Does age influence the postoperative improvement of sport activity based on validated activity scores? (3) What are the preoperative and postoperative sport participation rates and the return to sport rates (RTS)? (4) What are the sport disciplines and sport patterns?MethodsFollowing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, MEDLINE and Scopus were searched for studies reporting the physical activity level and sport habits of patients before and after primary TKA based on validated activity scores or an activity questionnaire. Random effect models were implemented to pool the mean differences (MDs) of activity score values and the difference between preoperative and postoperative sport participation rates.ResultsTwenty-five studies were included reporting on 6035 TKAs. Physical activity levels improved significantly according to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) activity score (MD 1.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.35-2.76, n = 1239, I² = 99%, P < .01) and the Tegner score (MD 1.14, 95% CI −0.48 to 2.76, n = 483, I² = 93%, P < .01). Younger patients (≤55 years) had the highest improvement in the UCLA activity scores following primary TKA (MD 3.12, 95% CI −1.79 to 8.04, n = 67, I² = 96%, P < .01). Sport participation decreased slightly but not significantly (incidence rate difference −8%, 95% CI −0.14 to −0.2, n = 2673 patients, I² = 38%, P = .09). The median RTS was 71.2%. Patients predominantly engaged in low-impact sports, especially walking, cycling, and swimming.ConclusionAccording to validated activity scores, the level of physical activity significantly increases following primary TKA. Young patients (≤55 years) had the highest gain in physical activity according to the UCLA activity score following primary TKA. Sport participation shows a slight but nonsignificant decrease; intermediate and high-impact sports were abandoned to a large degree while participation rates for low-impact sports predominantly increased. RTS varied, although approximately 70% resume sport activities.Level of EvidenceIV (review including case series)     

Risk Factors for Delayed Discharge and Adverse Outcomes Following Outpatient Billed Total Knee Arthroplasty

BackgroundThe volume of outpatient total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has increased with advances in perioperative protocols, patient selection, and recent policy changes regarding insurance authorization. This study analyzed 30-day outcomes from a national database to better understand risk factors for delayed discharge (length of stay [LOS] ≥1), readmission, and reoperation after outpatient TKA.MethodsThe National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database was utilized to collect TKA (CPT 27447) billed as outpatient surgery performed from 2013 to 2018. Patient demographics, comorbidities, and short-term outcomes were collected and compared in LOS 0 versus LOS ≥1 cohorts. Subgroup analysis was completed for TKA performed in 2018, after the Center for Medicare Services removal of TKA from the inpatient-only list.ResultsA total of 13,669 patients had outpatient TKA performed from 2013 to 2018. Most patients had LOS ≥1 day (77.1%). The LOS 0 cohort demonstrated a lower 30-day readmission rate (1.8%) compared to LOS ≥1 (2.8%), P > .01. Both groups demonstrated a low 30-day reoperation rate, LOS 0 (0.7%) and LOS ≥1 (1.1%), P = .05. Regression analysis demonstrated risk factors for LOS ≥1 day included COPD, ASA ≥3, age >75, and BMI >35 kg/m². Regression analysis demonstrated male gender, age >75, ASA ≥3, and albumin <3.5 g/dL were risk factors for readmission. Hypertension was a risk factor for 30-day reoperation.ConclusionRisk factors for LOS ≥1 day include age >75, ASA ≥3, BMI >35 kg/m². In addition, BMI >35 kg/m² was a risk factor for readmission and reoperation. These findings reinforce appropriate patient selection when considering outpatient TKA.     

Does Regional Anesthesia Reduce Complications Following Total Hip and Knee Replacement Compared With General Anesthesia? An Analysis From the National Joint Registry for England,Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man

BackgroundRegional anesthesia is increasingly used in enhanced recovery programs following total hip replacement (THR) and total knee replacement (TKR). However, debate remains about its potential benefit over general anesthesia given that complications following surgery are rare. We assessed the risk of complications in THR and TKR patients receiving regional anesthesia compared with general anesthesia using the world’s largest joint replacement registry.MethodsWe studied the National Joint Registry for England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man linked to English hospital inpatient episodes for 779,491 patients undergoing THR and TKR. Patients received either regional anesthesia (n = 544,620, 70%) or general anesthesia (n = 234,871, 30%). Outcomes assessed at 90 days included length of stay, readmissions, and complications. Regression models were adjusted for patient and surgical factors to determine the effect of anesthesia on outcomes.ResultsLength of stay was reduced with regional anesthesia compared with general anesthesia (THR = −0.49 days, 95% confidence interval [CI] = −0.51 to −0.47 days, P < .001; TKR = −0.47 days, CI = −0.49 to −0.45 days, P < .001). Regional anesthesia also had a reduced risk of readmission (THR odds ratio [OR] = 0.93, CI = 0.90-0.96; TKA OR = 0.91, CI = 0.89-0.93), any complication (THR OR = 0.88, CI = 0.85-0.91; TKA OR = 0.90, CI = 0.87-0.93), urinary tract infection (THR OR = 0.85, CI = 0.77-0.94; TKR OR = 0.87, CI = 0.79-0.96), and surgical site infection (THR OR = 0.87, CI = 0.80-0.95; TKR OR = 0.84, CI = 0.78-0.89). Anesthesia type did not affect the risk of revision surgery or mortality.ConclusionRegional anesthesia was associated with reduced length of stay, readmissions, and complications following THR and TKR when compared with general anesthesia. We recommend regional anesthesia should be considered the reference standard for patients undergoing THR and TKR.     

Redefining Indications for Modern Cementless Total Knee Arthroplasty: Clinical Outcomes and Survivorship in Patients >75 Years Old

BackgroundMost studies on cementless total knee arthroplasty (TKA) have excluded patients >75 years due to concerns that older patients have poorer bone mineral density and osteogenic activity. This study compared the midterm outcomes and survivorship of cemented and cementless TKA of the same modern design performed in patients >75 years.MethodsWe identified a consecutive series of 120 primary cementless TKA performed in patients >75 years. Each case was propensity score matched 1:3 with 360 cemented TKA of the same modern design based on age, sex, body mass index, Charlson Comorbidity Index, bilateral procedures, liner type, and year of surgery. Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement (KOOS-JR) and Short Form-12 (SF-12) were collected preoperatively, at 6 months and 2 years. Implant survivorship was recorded at mean 4.2 years (range, 2.0-7.9).ResultsMean age was 79.0 ± 3.4 years (range, 75-92) in the cemented cohort and 78.9 ± 3.5 (range, 75-91) in the cementless cohort (P = .769). There was no difference in final postoperative scores or improvement in scores at 2 years. The percentage of patients that met the minimal clinically important difference was also similar (KOOS-JR, 68.9% vs 69.2%, P = .955; SF-12 Physical, 71.7% vs 66.7%, P = .299). Seven-year survivorship free from aseptic revision was 99.4% for cemented knees and 100% for cementless knees (log-rank, P = .453).ConclusionPatients over 75 years undergoing cementless or cemented TKA of the same modern design had comparable outcomes and survivorship in the midterm. The theoretical risks of cementless fixation in this age group were not realized in this study.     

Characteristics of Antibiotic Prophylaxis and Risk of Surgical Site Infections in Primary Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty

BackgroundDespite numerous antibiotic prophylaxis options for total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA), an assessment of practice patterns and comparative effectiveness is lacking. We aimed to characterize antibiotic utilization patterns and associations with infection risk and hypothesized differences in infection risk based on regimen.MethodsA retrospective cohort study was performed using data from 436,724 THA and 862,918 TKA (Premier Healthcare Database; 2006-2016). Main exposures were antibiotic type and duration: day of surgery only (day 0) or through postoperative day 1 (day 1). The primary outcome was surgical site infection (SSI) <30 days postoperation. Mixed-effect models measured associations between prophylaxis regimen and SSI as odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).ResultsSSI prevalence was 0.21% (n = 914) for THA and 0.22% (n = 1914) for TKA. Among THA procedures, the most commonly used antibiotics were cefazolin (74.1%), vancomycin (8.4%), “other” antibiotic combinations (7.1%), vancomycin + cefazolin (5.1%), and clindamycin (3.3%). Here, 51.8% received prophylaxis on day 0 only, whereas 48.2% received prophylaxis through day 1. Similar patterns existed for TKA. Relative to cefazolin, higher SSI odds were seen with vancomycin (OR = 1.36; CI 1.09-1.71) in THA and with vancomycin (OR = 1.29; CI = 1.10-1.52), vancomycin + cefazolin (OR = 1.35; CI = 1.12-1.64), clindamycin (OR = 1.38; CI = 1.11-1.71), and “other” antibiotic combinations (OR = 1.28; CI = 1.07-1.53) in TKA. Prophylaxis duration did not alter SSI odds. Results were corroborated in sensitivity analyses.ConclusionAntibiotic prophylaxis regimens other than cefazolin were associated with increased SSI risk among THA/TKA patients. These findings emphasize a modifiable intervention to mitigate infection risk.