Development of a DDH Care Pathway for India: A Study Methodology to Guide Similar Efforts in Other Countries and for Other Conditions

PurposeIn India and other Global South countries, developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is often diagnosed after walking age, leading to more invasive surgeries and long-term disability. DDH care pathways aim to enhance early detection and must be tailored to meet a country’s needs and diverse practice settings. We describe a multi-phase methodology for context-specific DDH care pathway development, demonstrating its use in India.MethodsIn Phase I, Orthopaedic surgeons, Pediatricians/Neonatologists, and Radiologists in India were surveyed regarding DDH screening. Seven relevant Indian organizations partnered together and assembled a multidisciplinary working group, which then met fortnightly to establish an evidence base and prepare for the subsequent consensus-building phase. During Phase II, panelists participated in a modified Delphi process to reach consensus on a list of DDH screening statements. Phase III applied the statements to develop the care pathway.ResultsThe Delphi process concluded after a preliminary survey and two Delphi rounds, reaching consensus on 47 statements, which were condensed into 35. The developed care pathway for India features periodic clinical hip examinations integrated with the country’s immunization schedule and selective imaging screening, providing flexibility in the timing and modality of imaging.Discussion/ConclusionIn Global South countries, there is a need for DDH care pathways specific to local contexts. Successful care pathway development requires accounting for cultural differences in healthcare and strategies to facilitate engagement and to address country-specific barriers. This methodology was feasible in India and can be applied to other conditions and/or countries wishing to establish care pathways.Level of EvidenceLevel III.     

The Incidence,Diagnosis, and Treatment practices of Developmental Dysplasia of Hip (DDH) in India: A Scoping Systematic Review

PurposeTo identify literature on variations and knowledge gaps in the incidence, diagnosis, and management of developmental dysplasia of hip (DDH) in India.MethodsFollowing standard methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, a scoping systematic review of literature on incidence, diagnosis, and treatment of DDH in India was conducted. Studies conducted in India, published in indexed or non-indexed journals between 1975 and March 2021, were included in the search.ResultsOf 57 articles which met the inclusion criteria, only 33 studies (57.8%) were PubMed-indexed. Twenty-eight studies (49%) were published in Orthopaedic journals and majority had orthopaedic surgeon as the lead author (59.6%). Sixteen studies were mainly epidemiological, 20 reported screening/diagnosis, and 21 reported treatment of DDH. Almost 90% of the studies (51) were Level 4 or 5 according to the levels of evidence in research. There is lack of clarity in the definition of hip dysplasia and screening/diagnostic guidelines to be used. The incidence of hip dysplasia in India is reported to be 0–75 per 1000 live births, with true DDH between 0 and 2.6/1000. Late-presenting DDH is common in India, with most studies reporting a mean age of > 20 months for children presenting for treatment. The treatment is also varied and there is no clear evidence-based approach to various treatment options, with lack of long-term studies.ConclusionThis systematic scoping review highlights various knowledge gaps pertaining to DDH diagnosis and management in India. High-quality, multicentric research in identified gap areas, with long-term follow-up, is desired in future.     

Hip Surveillance for Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Survey of Orthopaedic Surgeons in India

BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to assess Indian orthopaedic surgeons’ current practices and beliefs regarding hip surveillance for children with cerebral palsy (CP), to determine potential support for developing hip surveillance guidelines, and to identify knowledge gaps and key obstacles to guideline implementation in India.MethodsAn anonymous, cross-sectional online survey was sent to approximately 350 Paediatric Orthopaedic Society of India (POSI) members who were queried on their practices and beliefs about hip surveillance for children with CP, as well as perceived challenges and requirements for the successful implementation of hip surveillance guidelines in the Indian context.ResultsOut of 107 responses obtained from POSI members, almost all (96.2%) agreed that hip displacement requires standardized monitoring, using surveillance and surgery to prevent hip dislocation. Approximately half (51.5%) of respondents reported using existing hip surveillance guidelines, with most (41.2%) using the Australian guidelines. Almost all (97%) surgeons indicated that hip surveillance guidelines in India are needed, with 100% expressing interest in following guidelines specific to India. Respondents most frequently indicated late referrals to orthopaedics (81.2%), loss of patients to follow-up (78.2%), and lack of resources (43.6%) as challenges to successful hip surveillance in India. Perceived requirements for implementation included developing Indian-specific guidelines (83.2%) as well as educating surgeons (56.4%), physiotherapists/pediatricians (90.1%), and families (82.2%).ConclusionOrthopaedic surgeons practicing in India understand the importance of preventing hip dislocations in children with CP through hip surveillance and timely surgical intervention. The results demonstrated strong support for the development of hip surveillance guidelines designed specifically for the Indian healthcare system.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43465-021-00432-3.     

There is No Link Between Birth Weight and Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip

AimsDevelopmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) has been linked to high birth weight and packaging disorders, though the evidence is limited. This has implications on screening strategies. The aim of this study was to establish whether birth weight was truly associated with the incidence of DDH.Patients and MethodsThis cohort study analysed the birth weights of all babies born at our institution over a 24 month period, between 01/01/2017 and 01/01/2019. Babies with DDH and those without DDH were compared. Babies were excluded if born before 38 weeks, had incomplete data or were a non-singleton pregnancy. Sub-analysis was performed for DDH severity (dysplastic versus subluxed/dislocated hips), breech presentation, gestational age, gender and ethnicity. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS.ResultsThere were 10,113 babies born at our institution during the selected timeframe, of which 884 were excluded for prematurity, 336 for being non-singleton and 19 for incomplete data. This left 8874 for analysis, of which 95 babies had confirmed DDH. Both the Non-DDH and DDH data sets had normal distribution (Shapiro-Wilkes, p = 0.308 and 0.629, respectively), with mean birth weights of 3477.7 g with DDH and 3492.8 g without DDH. No difference in birth weight was found (Independent T test, p = 0.789). Females had a lower birth weight than males (3293.1 g versus 3416.6 g (p < 0.001)) yet have a higher incidence of DDH (ratio 6:1 in this dataset). No significant difference was found between birth weights of females with and without DDH (p = 0.068), nor between males with and without DDH (p = 0.513). There were no significant differences in birth weights even when only displaced hips were analysed (p = 0.543), nor according to breech presentation (p = 0.8). Longer gestation babies weighed more (p < 0.00001), yet showed no increase in DDH incidence (p = 0.64).ConclusionThis study discredits the belief that DDH may be related to higher birth weight, thus casting doubt on the link to DDH being a packaging problem in utero. This, therefore, allows future research to prioritise the investigation of alternative aetiologies.     

The Development of Leg Length Difference and Influence on Persistent Dysplasia in Patients with Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip

IntroductionLeg-length difference (LLD) is common in patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). LLD of > 1 cm at skeletal maturity is reported in > 40% of patients, with the majority related to ipsilateral overgrowth. A longer DDH leg might lead to excessive mechanical loading at the acetabular margin, resulting in compromised acetabular development. We hypothesised that the LLD would negatively influence acetabular development. If so, it would be advantageous to identify such patients early in the course of follow-up, and address this if necessary.MethodsA retrospective study was conducted on a consecutive series of DDH patients managed surgically at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Stanmore, United Kingdom. We included patients with adequate long-leg radiographs at the age of 4–8 years (early-FU) and skeletal maturity (final-FU). Bilateral cases and those who underwent surgical procedures for hip dysplasia during the follow-up period were excluded. Measurements including leg length and centre-edge-angle (CE-angle) were obtained at the 2 time points.ResultsTwenty-seven patients were included, mean age at early-FU 5.7 (± 0.9) years, and 13.9 (± 1.0) years at final-FU. Mean LLD at early-FU was 9.5 (± 7.6) mm and 10.9 (± 9.4) mm at final-FU, p = 0.337. Correlation between early- and final-FU LLD was 0.68 (p < 0.001). The mean CE-angle at early follow-up was 14.6° (± 9.8), this improved to 23.2° (± 8.2) at skeletal maturity (p = 0.003, paired samples t-test). Linear regression analysis showed a non-significant trend towards less CE-angle improvement in patients with more initial residual dysplasia and more initial LLD.ConclusionMost leg-length differences can be identified early in the follow-up period, nevertheless, considerable individual changes in LLD are observed on continued follow-up. Furthermore, a trend was observed towards impaired acetabular improvement in patients with more LLD. These findings justify careful clinical and radiological monitoring of LLD from an early stage in the follow-up period.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43465-021-00492-5.     

A Comparative Study of Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Open Reduction Using the Anterior and Medial Approaches for the Management of Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip

BackgroundThe literature is scanty on reports directly comparing the outcomes of anterior open reduction (AOR) and medial open reduction (MOR) in the management of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH).Purpose of the StudyTo compare clinical and radiographic outcomes of surgical treatment using either AOR or MOR in children with DDH aged < 24 months and to evaluate the procedure-inherent risks of avascular necrosis of the femoral head (AVN) and need for further corrective surgery (FCS).Methods61 children who underwent surgical treatment for DDH were categorized into two groups: AOR (31 hips of 28 patients) and MOR (39 hips of 33 patients). The mean age was 17 ± 5.85 (range 7–24) months in group AOR and 13 ± 5.31 (range 6–24) months in group MOR. The mean follow-up was 118 ± 41.2 (range 24–192) months and 132 ± 36.7 (range 24–209) months in group AOR and MOR. At the final follow-up, mid- to long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes were assessed. FCS was recorded.ResultsRegarding McKay’s clinical criteria, both groups exhibited similar results (p = 0.761). No significant differences were observed between the groups in both the center–edge–angle (p = 0.112) and the Severin score (p = 0.275). The AVN rate was 32% in the AOR group and 20% in the MOR group (p = 0.264). The FCS rate was 22% in the AOR group and 12% in the MOR group (p = 0.464).ConclusionsThis study showed similar clinical and radiological outcomes with AOR and MOR with no significant relation to AVN and FCS.Level of EvidenceLevel III.     

3D Characterization of Acetabular Deficiency in Children with Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip

BackgroundThe purpose of this study is to determine if a quantitative method can be used to identify differences in 3D morphology between normal and developmentally dysplastic hips and to identify specific areas of undercoverage in children with DDH compared to age- and sex-matched controls.MethodsSubjects were included if they were typically developing children with no other underlying conditions affecting their musculoskeletal system and had an available pelvic CT scan (67 hips). Custom software was used to measure standard variables defining acetabular morphology (version, tilt, surface area). Acetabuli were divided into equal octants; coverage angles were measured for each octant of interest. Variables were compared with age- and sex-matched controls (128 hips) using analysis of variance or the Mann–Whitney test.ResultsHips with DDH were more anteverted compared to normal hips (DDH: 22.6˚, Control: 16.4˚, p < 0.001). The surface area was similar between groups. 28% of hips had a global deficiency, 24% were anteriorly deficient, 19% were laterally deficient, 10% were anteverted (under covered anteriorly and over covered posteriorly), 3% were posteriorly deficient, and 15% of hips had borderline undercoverage. None of the hips in this cohort were found to be retroverted.ConclusionsThis is the first study to quantify the 3D acetabular deficiency in children with DDH compared to age- and sex-matched controls. We found wide variability in coverage patterns among dysplastic hips. It is imperative to define the specific acetabular deficiency for each individual patient prior to surgical correction.Level of evidenceIII – Case–control study.     

Comparison of surgical trends in zone 2 flexor tendon repair between Turkish and international surgeons

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to evaluate Turkish trends in zone 2 flexor repair with regards to surgical technique, suture materials, anesthesia and post-operative rehabilitation and compare this with international surgeons by modifying Gibson's survey.MethodsA printed and online survey consisting of 19 questions modified from Gibson's survey was sent to 590 Turkish and international surgeons. The surgeon's years in practice, province of practice, residency type, number of zone 2 flexor tendon repairs done in a year, preferred surgical technique, suture material, complications and postoperative protocols were asked to the respondents.ResultsA total of 194 surgeons completed the survey (a 25% response rate). Of those who completed the survey, 91 were international (mostly from far eastern countries) and 103 were Turkish surgeons. Years in practice and educational background had influence on the decision-making. There were differences between the Turkish and international surgeons in the core and epitendinous suture thickness preference and flexor tendon sheath repair. There was a statistically significant relationship between the province of practice and the use of WALANT (Wide awake local anesthesia no tourniquet) (p < 0.05). While the majority of respondents who preferred postoperative early passive motion protocol were from Turkey (61.5%), the majority of respondents who preferred early active motion protocol were practicing abroad (73.9%).ConclusionDespite some variations the surgeons involved in this study follow to a large extent the current literature.     

Evaluation of Acetabular Development Following Open Reduction of Developmental Dysplasia of Hip in Children After Walking Age

Background and purposeThe growth and development of the acetabulum in children with developmental dysplasia of hip (DDH) depends upon the extent of concentric reduction. Children in walking age often need open reduction with or without additional osteotomies to obtain congruous, stable reduction. The purpose of this study was to evaluate acetabular development in late diagnosed DDH treated by open reduction with or without femoral osteotomy.MethodsThis is a retrospective study of 29 children (40 hips) with idiopathic DDH, previously untreated managed by open reduction with or without femoral osteotomy. We analyzed preoperative and yearly postoperative radiographs up to 6 years of age for acetabular development by measuring acetabular index. Acetabular remodeling was assessed with a graphical plot of serial mean acetabular index. Those with AI < 30° at outcome measure point of 6 years of patient age were considered to have satisfactory acetabular remodeling.ResultsMean age of surgery was 26.8 months. Open reduction alone was done in 14 hips and open reduction with concurrent femoral osteotomy done in 26 hips. The mean acetabular index pre operatively was 36.6° ± 5.9° which reduced to 29.7° ± 6° at 1-year follow-up and to 26.6° ± 5.9° at 2-year follow-up. 28 out of 40 hips were available for evaluation at outcome measure point of 6 years of age, which showed satisfactory remodeling in 24 hips with mean AI of 22.7° ± 5.7°. Maximum acetabular development was seen at 2 years post-surgery and better remodeling was seen in children operated at less than 2 years of age. 5 hips had changes of avascular necrosis of femoral head. There was no incidence of redislocation/subluxation at latest follow-up.ConclusionOpen reduction in late-diagnosed developmental dysplasia of hip has potential for favourable acetabular development. Femoral osteotomy when required along with open reduction may suffice to address acetabular dysplasia found in the initial years of management of DDH.     

Self-Reported Feelings of Disability Following Lower Extremity Orthopaedic Trauma

BackgroundNearly 20% of Americans consider themselves disabled. A common cause of disability is unexpected orthopaedic trauma. The purpose of this current study, assessing common lower extremity trauma, is the following: to assess the prevalence of self-reported feelings of disability following these injuries, to determine if self-reported feelings of disability impact functional outcomes, and to understand patient characteristics associated with self-reported feelings of disability.MethodsThe functional statuses of patients with tibial plateau fractures and ankle fractures were prospectively assessed. Patient reported feelings of disability (acquired from validated functional outcome surveys), which were compared with overall patient-reported functional outcome and emotional status at each follow-up visit. Additionally, patient demographics were analyzed, to assess associations with feelings of disability.ResultsA total of 710 patients were included in our analysis. At short-term follow-up (3 months), a strong positive correlation existed between self-reported feelings of disability and worse functional outcomes (rs = 0.744, P < 0.001). At long-term follow-up (12-months), a strong positive correlation existed between self-reported feelings of disability and worse functional outcomes (rs = 0.741, P < 0.001). Self-reported feelings of disability were associated with increased age at both short-term (P = 0.015) and long-term (P = 0.003) follow-ups. At short-term follow-up, 41% of males and 59% of females self-reported feelings of disability (P < 0.001) No significant differences existed between genders at long-term follow-up (P = 0.252). Self-reported feelings of disability declined at each follow-up visit, from 48.1% at short-term follow-up to 22.1% at long-term follow-up.ConclusionSelf-reported feelings of disability, following lower extremity trauma, had strong positive correlations with worse outcomes. Orthopaedic trauma surgeons should be aware of the percentage of patients who feel disabled following lower extremity fractures, and know that this is associated with sub-optimal outcomes.Level of EvidenceIII.     

Tourniquet Use in Arthroscopic ACL Reconstruction: A Blinded Randomized Trial

IntroductionDespite knowing, that tourniquet induces ischemia and soft tissue damage surgeons still use it. The purpose of this study is to compare post operative pain and quadriceps function in patients undergoing arthroscopy assisted ACL reconstruction with tourniquet and without tourniquet.MethodsA blinded randomized prospective trial conducted at Orthopaedic department of a tertiary institute in India from Feb 2019 to June 2019. 45 patients undergoing Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction aged between 18 and 60 years were recruited in the study according to selection criteria. Patients were distributed in 2 groups randomly, namely, tourniquet and non-tourniquet. Preoperatively serum CPK measurement and thigh girth measurement was done. Following standard arthroscopic procedure VAS score monitoring for pain was done for 5 days. Serum CPK levels were performed on postoperative day 1. Thigh girth was measured on postoperative day 21.ResultPain was significantly high in patients in whom tourniquet was used. VAS scores were significantly high in tourniquet group. Tourniquet group patients required more amount of additional analgesics in postoperative period (p < 0.001). Serum CPK levels were comparable preoperatively while significantly high postoperatively in tourniquet group (p < 0.001). Difference in mean of thigh girth was significant between the groups (p < 0.001) and there is difficulty experienced by patients in performing straight leg raise test after tourniquet use (p = 0.002).ConclusionTourniquet use is associated with increased pain, analgesic requirement, damage to muscles and compromises muscle function in early postoperative period. This can not only lead to increased patient discomfort but also difficult initial rehabilitation. Arthroscopic procedures can be uneventfully performed without the use of a tourniquet, and alternative methods should be looked upon and emphasized.     

Artificial Intelligence to Automatically Assess Scan Quality in Hip Ultrasound

PurposeSince it is fast, inexpensive and increasingly portable, ultrasound can be used for early detection of Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) in infants at point-of-care. However, accurate interpretation\is highly dependent on scan quality. Poor-quality images lead to misdiagnosis, but inexperienced users may not even recognize the deficiencies in the images. Currently, users assess scan quality subjectively, based on image landmarks which are prone to human errors. Instead, we propose using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to automatically assess scan quality.MethodsWe trained separate Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) models to detect presence of each of four commonly used ultrasound landmarks in each hip image: straight horizontal iliac wing, labrum, os ischium and midportion of the femoral head. We used 100 3D ultrasound (3DUS) images for training and validated the technique on a set of 107 3DUS images also scored for landmarks by three non-expert readers and one expert radiologist.ResultsWe got AI ≥ 85% accuracy for all four landmarks (ilium = 0.89, labrum = 0.94, os ischium = 0.85, femoral head = 0.98) as a binary classifier between adequate and inadequate scan quality. Our technique also showed excellent agreement with manual assessment in terms of Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) and Cohen’s kappa coefficient (K) for ilium (ICC = 0.81, K = 0.56), os ischium (ICC = 0.89, K = 0.63) and femoral head (ICC = 0.83, K = 0.66), and moderate to good agreement for labrum (ICC = 0.65, K = 0.33).ConclusionThis new technique could ensure high scan quality and facilitate more widespread use of ultrasound in population screening of DDH.Graphical abstract Open in a separate window     

Safety and Effectiveness of Orthopaedic Medical Staff in Providing Support in Combating the COVID‐19 Pandemic: A Retrospective Investigation from Wuhan,China

ObjectiveTo evaluate whether it is safe and effective for orthopaedic medical staff to provide support to the work against COVID‐19.MethodsOne hundred and twenty‐two orthopaedic medical staff from the orthopaedic center of Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University were included in this retrospective investigation. A total of 43 surgeons and 69 nurses provided medical support in the treatment of COVID‐19 patients from 1 January 2020 to 8 April 2020 in four different hospitals in Wuhan. We collected data on the age, gender, and body temperature of orthopaedic medical staff, as well as the results for their chest CT scans, SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA, SARS‐CoV‐2 IgM and SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG tests, and training and examinations on COVID‐19 knowledge. We also collected data on the time span of work, the number of infected staff during the support period, the number of COVID‐19 patients the surgeons treated and the cure rate, the performance of the surgeons as assessed by the specialists and patients, and the number of infected staff during the pandemic.ResultsAmong the 49 surgeons and 73 nurses, 43 surgeons and 69 nurses provided support against COVID‐19. A total of 12 surgeons and 11 nurses provided support in the fields of respiration, intensive care, and emergency. A total of 34 surgeons and 58 nurses worked in the designated wards restructured for COVID‐19 in the orthopaedic building. The average time span of work for the surgeons and nurses was 14.78 ± 3.64 days and 24.77 ± 7.58 days, respectively. No staff were infected during the support period. Over 1000 patients were received in the fever clinic by orthopaedic surgeons. The overall number of the treated hospitalized patients was 622. Among these patients, 226 cases were mild, 318 were mild to moderate, and 58 were severe or critical. The cure rate was 96.01%, 99.37%, and 52.00% respectively. The performance of the surgeons was scored 87.02 ± 3.17 and 90.69 ± 3.58 by the specialists and the patients, respectively. During the whole pandemic, 3 surgeons and 3 nurses who did not participate in the support work were infected in the early stages. The morbidity of all the orthopaedic staff was 4.92% during the whole pandemic, while no one was infected during the support work.ConclusionOur investigation indicated that although they worked outside their specialty, it was safe and effective for the orthopaedic staff to provide medical support in the work against COVID‐19 with adequate precautions and proper training.     

Accuracy in the Execution of Pre-operative Plan for Limb Alignment and Implant Positioning in Robotic-arm Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty and Manual Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective Observational Study

AimThe objective of the study is to compare the accuracy of implant positioning and limb alignment achieved in robotic-arm assisted total knee arthroplasty(RATKA) and manual total knee arthroplasty(MTKA) to their respective preoperative plan.Patients and methodsThis was a prospective observational study conducted in a tertiary care centre between August 2018 and January 2020. 143 consecutive RATKA(105 patients) and 151 consecutive MTKA(111 patients) performed by two experienced arthroplasty surgeons were included. Two independent observers evaluated the accuracy of implant positioning by measuring the radiological parameters according to the Knee-Society-Roentgenographic-Evaluation-System and limb alignment from postoperative weight-bearing scanogram. Outcomes were defined, based on the degree of deviation of measurements from the planned position and alignment, as excellent(0–1.99°), acceptable(2.00–2.99°) and outlier(≥ 3.00°).ResultsThere were no systematic differences in the demographic and baseline characteristics between RATKA and MTKA. Statistically significant outcomes were observed favouring robotic group for postoperative mechanical axis (p < .001), coronal inclination of the femoral component (p < 0.001), coronal inclination of tibial component (p < 0.001), and sagittal inclination of tibial component (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the sagittal inclination of the femoral component (p = 0.566). The percentage of knees in the ''excellent'' group were higher in RATKA compared to MTKA. There was absolutely no outlier in terms of limb alignment in the RATKA group versus 23.8% (p < 0.001) in the MTKA group. All the measurements showed high interobserver and intraobserver reliability.ConclusionRobotic-arm assisted TKA executed the preoperative plan more accurately with respect to limb alignment and implant positioning compared to manual TKA, even when the surgeons were more experienced in the latter.Graphic abstract Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43465-020-00324-y.     

Learning Curve of Total Hip Arthroplasty in Direct Anterior Approach without Requiring Corrective Osteotomy for Hip Dysplasia

ObjectiveTo explore the learning curve of total hip arthroplasty in direct anterior approach (DA‐THA) without requiring corrective osteotomy for patients with unilateral developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) through the evaluation of clinical and radiographic results.MethodFrom December 2015 to January 2021, we retrospectively evaluated a surgeon''s first 100 patients with unilateral hip dysplasia (Crowe I‐III) who underwent DA‐THA. All procedures were performed by a fellowship‐trained joint surgeon. Cementless hemispheric porous‐coated acetabular cups and tapered cementless stems were used in all hips. The radiographic data, including leg length, the height of the center of rotation, femoral head offset, the cup anteversion and inclination angle, were measured. The cumulative sum analysis (CUSUM) and risk‐adjusted cumulative sum analysis (RA‐CUSUM) were used to determine the learning curve of DA‐THA for each patient''s operation time. By analyzing the operation time, complication rate, postoperative length of hospitalization and creatine kinase (before surgery and the third day after surgery), estimated blood loss, Harris score, radiographic data were compared between the different stages of the learning curve.ResultsThe mean follow‐up time was 35.45 ± 16.82 months. The CUSUM method obtained the maximum turning point of the curve at 43 cases, which divided the learning curve into Learning Period and Mastery Period. The CUSUM learning curve was best modeled as a cubic curve with the equation: CUSUM (min) = 0.001x ³ − 0.495x² + 33.60x − 10.00, which had a higher R ² value of 0.967. The pre‐operative data, creatine kinase, estimated blood loss and postoperative Harris scores of the two stages were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). The mean operation time was 118 min in the Learning Period and 87 min in the Mastery Period. Statistically significant differences were detected in the operation time (P < 0.001), postoperative length of hospitalization(P = 0.024), and postoperative leg length discrepancy (P = 0.012) between the two stages. The overall complication rates were 27.9% in the Learning Period and 12.3% in the Mastery Period (p = 0.049). The overall outliers of radiographic data were 34 cases in the Learning Period and 31 cases in the Mastery Period (79.07% vs 54.39%, P = 0.010).ConclusionsThe DA‐THA is a valuable alternative to achieve satisfactory clinical results for mild‐to‐moderate DDH patients. Furthermore, accurate analysis of the learning curve of DA‐THA for hip dysplasia by the CUSUM method showed that the surgeons need to finish about 43 cases to master the technique.     

Point-of-Care Ultrasound Reduces Visit Time and Cost of Care for Infants with Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip

BackgroundHealthcare institutions and policymakers are searching for system-wide approaches to reduce costs while maintaining quality and improving patient outcomes. In most healthcare systems infants referred for the detecting or treating developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) are sent to a radiology department for sonographic evaluation. The total duration of visit and cost of visit are essential variables in any healthcare setting and affect both efficiency and “the bottom line”. By having the treating clinician perform point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) for the detection and follow-up of patients with DDH, we hypothesize that there would be a significant reduction in the time spent on the visit and the cost incurred without compromising quality or patient satisfaction. To our knowledge, no prior study has examined the effect of incorporating POCUS on the duration and cost of the visit in patients with DDH.PurposeTo determine if there was a difference in the duration of the visit for patients with DDH when POCUS was performed compared to when traditional “formal” sonography was performed. To determine if there was a difference in the cost of the visit for patients with DDH when POCUS was performed compared to when traditional “formal” sonography was performed.MethodsData for visits to a specialized outpatient office were collected over two years at a single-specialty orthopedic hospital, comparing the duration and cost of the visit between patient encounters for infants who had “formal” sonograms performed in the radiology suite to infants who underwent POCUS of the hip. In all, we included 532 patient encounters, 326 patients had POCUS performed, and 206 had a “formal” ultrasonographic evaluation performed. Of these, 140 were new evaluations and 392 were follow-up evaluations for treatment. Of the 140 new patients, 80 were in the POCUS group, and 60 were in the “formal” US group. Of the 392 follow-ups, 246 were in the POCUS group, and 146 were in the “formal” US group.ResultsThe mean duration of the encounter for the POCUS group was 42 min (range 16–75 min), and for the “formal” US group, it was 92 min (range 36–163 min). This difference was statistically significant (p = 0.002). The mean cost of the encounter for the POCUS group was $121.13, and for the “formal” US group, it was $339.38. This difference was statistically significant (p = 0.002).ConclusionUltimately, our study demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in the duration and cost of a patient encounter for infants with DDH when they undergo POCUS rather than “formal” sonographic evaluation.     

Oxidative Stress Induced Osteocyte Apoptosis in Steroid‐Induced Femoral Head Necrosis

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect and mechanism of Glucocorticoids (GCs) induced oxidative stress and apoptosis on necrosis of the femoral head in patients and rats.MethodsEight patients with steroid‐induced avascular necrosis of the femoral head (SINFH) and eight patients with developmental dysplasia of the hips (DDH) were enrolled in our study. In animal model, twenty male Sprague‐Dawley rats were randomly divided into two groups (SINFH group and NS group). The SINFH model group received the methylprednisolone (MPS) injection, while control group was injected with normal saline (NS). MRI was used to confirm SINFH rat model was established successfully. Then, the rats were sacrificed 4 weeks later and femoral head samples were harvested. Histopathological staining was preformed to evaluate osteonecrosis. TUNEL staining was performed with 8‐OHdG and DAPI immunofluorescence staining to evaluate oxidative injury and osteocyte apoptosis. Immunohistochemistry staining was used to detect Nox1, Nox2, and Nox4 protein expression.ResultsMRI showed signs of typical osteonecrosis of femoral head in SIHFH patients. Histopathological staining showed that the rate of empty lacunae in SINFH patients was significantly higher (56.88% ± 9.72% vs 19.92% ± 4.18%, T = −11.04, P < 0.001) than that in DDH patients. The immunofluorescence staining indicated that the TUNEL‐positive cell and 8‐OHdG‐positve cell in SINFH patients were significantly higher (49.32% ± 12.95% vs 8.00% ± 2.11%, T = −7.04, P = 0.002, 54.6% ± 23.8% vs 9.75% ± 3.31%, T = −4.17, P = 0.003) compared to the DDH patients. The immunohistochemistry staining showed that the protein expression of NOX1, NOX2 and NOX4 in SINFH patients were significantly increased (64.50% ± 7.57% vs 37.58% ± 9.23%, T = −3.88, P = 0.018, 90.84% ± 2.93% vs 49.56% ± 16.47%, T = −5.46, P = 0.001, 85.46% ± 9.3% vs 40.69% ± 6.77%, T = −8.03, P = 0.001) compared to the DDH patients. In animal model, MRI showed signs of edema of femoral head in MPS group, which represents SINFH rat model was established successfully. Histological evaluation showed the rate of empty lacunae in MPS group was significantly higher (25.85% ± 4.68% vs 9.35% ± 1.99%, T = −7.96, P < 0.001) than that in NS group. The immunofluorescence staining indicated that the TUNEL‐positive cell and 8‐OHdG‐positve cell (in MPS group were significantly increased (31.93% ± 1.01% vs 11.73% ± 1.16%, T = −32.26, P < 0.001, 47.59% ± 1.39% vs 22.07% ± 2.45%, T = −22.18, P < 0.001) compared to the NS group. The immunohistochemistry staining showed that the expression of NOX2 in MPS group was significantly increased (76.77% ± 8.34% vs 50.32% ± 10.84%, T = −4.74, P = 0.001) compare with NS group.ConclusionOur findings indicated that GC‐induced NOXs expression may be an important source of oxidative stress, which could lead to osteocyte apoptosis in the process of SINFH     

Early Intervention of Perioperative Delirium in Older Patients (>60 years) with Hip Fracture: A Randomized Controlled Study

ObjectiveTo explore the effect of early intervention for perioperative delirium in older (> 60 years) hip fracture patients.MethodsThis prospective study enrolled hip fracture patients aged ≥60 years who were admitted into our hospital between July 2011 and August 2019. Hip fractures were classified according to the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteo‐synthesefragen (AO) classification. This study included patients with isolated hip fracture and excluded patients with pathological or peri prosthetic fracture or patients with multiple traumatic injuries and high‐energy trauma. They were randomized to receive conventional orthopedic care group (n = 65) or comprehensive orthopedic care group including preoperative psychological counseling and preventative risperidone (n = 63). Daily assessment was based on patient interview with the CAM‐CR, and delirium was diagnosed by the Delirium Rating Scale (DRS‐R‐98). The rate, severity and duration of perioperative delirium and the length of postoperative stay were analyzed.ResultsTotally 200 patients were screened for eligibility. Twenty patients were excluded due to alcohol abuse and 40 were excluded because of brain lesions on head CT. In addition, 12 patients were excluded because of impaired cognition. Finally 128 patients were enrolled. Their mean age was 75.3 ± 2.2 years for the comprehensive orthopedic care group and 73.5 ± 6.1 years for the conventional orthopedic care group, and 53.9% of the patients were female. Sixty‐eight (53.1%) patients had intertrochanteric fracture, 39.8% patients had femoral head fracture, and 7.0% patients had subtrochanteric fracture. In addition, 58.6% patients underwent internal fixation and 41.4% patients received arthroplasty. In this study, 63 patients were randomized to the comprehensive orthopedic care group and 65 patients to the conventional orthopedic care group. The two groups were comparable in demographic and baseline characteristics (P > 0.05). The rate of perioperative delirium was significantly lower in the comprehensive care group vs the conventional care group (15.9% vs. 30.8%; P < 0.05). The comprehensive care group had significantly reduced length of postoperative hospital stay vs the conventional care group (11.3 ± 2.5 days vs. 14.2 ± 2.2 days, P < 0.01). The mean DRS‐R‐98 score was 7.1 ± 2.7 for the comprehensive care group, and was significantly lower than that of the conventional orthopedic care group (11.2 ± 3.0; P < 0.05).ConclusionsOur early intervention may reduce the incidence of perioperative delirium in elderly hip fracture patients (>60 years).