Perioperative Mortality After Cemented or Uncemented Hemiarthroplasty for Displaced Femoral Neck Fractures—A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BackgroundDebate surrounds the use of cemented or uncemented prostheses for the treatment of displaced femoral neck fractures (FNF). Many guidelines recommend the use of the cemented hemiarthroplasty (CHA). Proponents of CHA point out the increased re-operation rate while proponents of uncemented hemiarthroplasty (HA) highlight the increased mortality rate in the perioperative period. The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature to evaluate perioperative mortality after HA for displaced FNFs.MethodsA systematic review and meta-analysis was performed of MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases evaluating perioperative mortality after HA for displaced FNFs. Randomized control trials and observational studies were included comparing current-generation stem designs. A meta-analysis was performed on studies that directly compared the different modes of fixation.ResultsTwenty-two studies were included (seven randomized control trials and 15 observational studies), with a total of 183,167 HAs for treatment of a displaced FNF. Fourteen studies were included in the meta-analysis. There was a higher cumulative odds of death within the first 48 hours in those with CHA compared with uncemented HA (OR: 1.64; 95% CI: 1.35, 2.00; P ≤ .01). No difference was found in mortality at 7 days, 30 days, and one year.ConclusionCHA is associated with an increased mortality rate within the first two days of surgery with no difference at 7 days, 30 days, and one year. Surgeons should consider tailoring their stem choice based on the physiological status of the patient when planning HA for FNFs. Techniques to reduce the risk of bone cement implantation syndrome should be used.     

Use of Dual Mobility Acetabular Component and Anterior Approach in Patients With Displaced Femoral Neck Fracture

BackgroundAlthough the antidislocation effect of total hip arthroplasty (THA) via the direct anterior approach (DAA) with dual mobility cup (DMC) for displaced femoral neck fracture (FNF) has already been reported, the clinical result of DMC-DAA-THA for displaced FNF in terms of mortality, complications, and walking ability are still unclear.Methods106 cases with DMC-DAA-THA for displaced FNF were investigated of dislocation; perioperative complications; 3-, 6-, and12-month mortality rate; and pre/early postoperative walking ability. The walking ability was stratified into the following four categories: (1) use of a wheelchair (no walking), (2) walking alongside a support (including walkers designed for the elderly), (3) walking using one stick, and (4) unaided walking.ResultsThere was no dislocation withing one-year postoperative. The 3-, 6-, and 12-month mortality rate was 2.8%, 4.7%, and 5.7%. Total complications occurred in 14 cases (14.7%). Although there was no revision surgery, two cases (1.9%) of intraoperative fracture treated without additional fixation, and one case of postoperative fracture was occurred. Among patients with preinjury walking category 2, 3, and 4 (total 94 cases), the number of patients who recovered same walking category at two-week postoperation was 56 cases (59.6%).ConclusionsOur study demonstrated that DMC-DAA-THA for displaced FNF offered quick recovery of walking ability with no dislocation and low one-year mortality rate. We believe that the combination of early postoperative recovery due to the minimal invasiveness of the DAA and decreased dislocation rate due to increased range of motion by DMC and adequate soft tissue tension by DAA contributed to null dislocation.     

Effectiveness of Periarticular Injection After Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty for Displaced Femoral Neck Fracture in Elderly Patients: A Double Blinded Randomized,Controlled Study

BackgroundBipolar hemiarthroplasty is a standard treatment for displaced femoral neck fracture in elderly with a normal acetabulum. Several studies have shown controversial results regarding postoperative visual analogue scale, opioid consumption, and the effectiveness of periarticular injection in hip arthroplasty. The purpose of this study is going to identify the effectiveness of periarticular injection after bipolar hemiarthroplasty compared with the patients treated with conventional pain control.MethodsA prospective, randomized, controlled study was performed for displaced femoral neck fracture in elderly who underwent bipolar hemiarthroplasty from 2017 to 2019. Patients were classified into two groups: Periarticular injection (PAI) group and nonperiarticular injection (non-PAI) group. All patients were recorded pain score (VAS) during admission. Morphine usage was collected in both groups including its side effects.ResultsThere was no difference in demography, intraoperative parameters, ambulatory status, and length of stay in both groups. Postoperative VAS at 8,16, 24, 60 hours, and before discharge in the non-PAI group was significantly higher than the PAI group (P = .001, P = .006, P = .002, P = .003, and P = .001, respectively). Morphine consumption at 8 hours after surgery was significantly higher in the non-PAI group than the PAI group (P = .001).ConclusionsIntraoperative, periarticular injection may be used as an adjunctive pain management in bipolar hemiarthroplasty for displaced femoral neck fracture in elderly.Level of Evidencelevel I, Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial.     

Periprosthetic joint infections in femoral neck fracture patients treated with hemiarthroplasty – should we use antibiotic-loaded bone cement?

BACKGROUNDHemiarthroplasty is the most common treatment in elderly patients with displaced intra-capsular femoral neck fracture (FNF). Prosthetic joint infection (PJI) is one of the most feared and frequent complications post-surgery because of the frail health status of these patients and the need for fast track surgery. Therefore, priorities should lie in effective preventive strategies to mitigate this burden.AIMTo determine how much the implementation of the routine use of antibiotic-loaded bone cement (ALBC) as a relatively easy-to-apply amendment to the surgical practice reduces the infection rate in our hemiarthroplasty cohort.METHODSWe retrospectively assessed all demographic, health status and treatment-related data of our FNF patients undergoing cemented hemiarthroplasty in the period from 2011 to 2017; 241 patients were further analyzed after exclusion of patients with cancer-related sequelae and those who died before the end of the 1-year observation period. The PJI rate as diagnosed on basis of the Musculoskeletal Infection Society (MSIS) criteria 2011 was determined for each included patient and compared in function of the bone cement used for hip stem fixation. Patients were split into a group receiving a plain bone cement in the period from January 2011 to June 2013 (non-ALBC group) and into a group receiving an ALBC in the period July 2013 to December 2017 (ALBC group). Data analysis was performed with statistical software. We further calculated the cost-efficacy of the implementation of routine use of ALBC in the second group balancing the in-hospital infection related treatment costs with the extra costs of use of ALBC.RESULTSIn total 241 FNF patients who received cemented hemiarthroplasty in the period from January 2011 to January 2017 were eligible for inclusion in this retrospective study. There were 8 PJI cases identified in the ALBC group among n = 94 patients, whereas 28 PJI cases were observed in the non-ALBC group among n = 147 patients. The statistical analysis showed an infection risk reduction of 55.3% (in particular due to the avoidance of chronic delayed infections) in the ALBC group (95%CI: 6.2%-78.7%; P = 0.0025). The cost-evaluation analysis demonstrated a considerable cost saving of 3.500 € per patient, related to the implementation of routine use of ALBC in this group. CONCLUSIONUse of ALBC is a potent infection preventive factor in FNF patients receiving cemented hemiarthroplasties. It was further found to be highly cost-effective.     

Complications following hemiarthroplasty for displaced intracapsular femoral neck fractures in the absence of routine follow-up

Introduction

Hemiarthroplasty is the most commonly performed surgery for displaced intracapsular femoral neck fractures. At present, it is not routine practice to follow up these patients despite the risk of all the complications associated with arthroplasty. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and nature of complications occurring following hemiarthroplasty that re-presented to this centre in the absence of routine postoperative follow-up.

Methods

Consecutive patients undergoing uncemented hip hemiarthroplasty for displaced intracapsular femoral neck fractures at a district general hospital between 2004 and 2009 were identified. Data were collected from the hospital database on all complications relating to the index procedure, further surgery performed and mortality.

Results

There were 490 hemiarthroplasties performed in 477 patients (mean age: 80 years, 75% female). Of these, 110 (22%) were referred postoperatively for specialist orthopaedic review. The prevalence of any complication following hemiarthroplasty was 12% (n=59) and the prevalence of hemiarthroplasty failure was 8% (n=40). The most common indications for failure were periprosthetic fracture (28%), aseptic femoral loosening (25%) and unexplained pain (25%). Persistent hip pain and poor mobility accounted for most complications not requiring further surgery (n=15). The mortality rate within 30 days and 1 year of hemiarthroplasty was 6% (n=31) and 29% (n=146) respectively.

Conclusions

In the absence of routine follow-up, complications were encountered frequently in patients undergoing hip hemiarthroplasty, with most requiring further surgery. Appropriate services should be implemented to allow timely referral for orthopaedic assessment, and enable the early identification and treatment of postoperative complications.     

High risk of early periprosthetic fractures after primary hip arthroplasty in elderly patients using a cemented,tapered, polished stem

Background and purpose — Postoperative periprosthetic femoral fracture (PPF) after hip arthroplasty is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. We assessed the incidence and characteristics of periprosthetic fractures in a consecutive cohort of elderly patients treated with a cemented, collarless, polished and tapered femoral stem (CPT).

Patients and methods — In this single-center prospective cohort study, we included 1,403 hips in 1,357 patients (mean age 82 (range 52–102) years, 72% women) with primary osteoarthritis (OA) or a femoral neck fracture (FNF) as indication for surgery (367 hips and 1,036 hips, respectively). 64% of patients were ASA class 3 or 4. Hip-related complications and need for repeat surgery were assessed at a mean follow-up time of 4 (1–7) years. A Cox regression analysis was used to evaluate risk factors associated with PPF.

Results — 47 hips (3.3%) sustained a periprosthetic fracture at median 7 (2–79) months postoperatively; 41 were comminute Vancouver B2 or complex C-type fractures. The fracture rate was 3.8% for FNF patients and 2.2% for OA patients (hazard ratio (HR) = 4; 95% CI: 1.3–12). Patients > 80 years of age also had a higher risk of fracture (HR = 2; 95% CI: 1.1–4.5).

Interpretation — We found a high incidence of early PPF associated with the CPT stem in this old and frail patient group. A possible explanation may be that the polished tapered stem acts as a wedge, splitting the femur after a direct hip contusion. Our results should be confirmed in larger, registry-based studies, but we advise caution when using this stem for this particular patient group.     

Could a Simple Screening Procedure Identify Patients With Early Cognitive Impairment? Implications for the Treatment of Geriatric Femoral Neck Fractures

BackgroundCurrent evidence suggests that cognitive capacities in patients who sustain a femoral neck fracture (FNF) correlate to patient outcome. We hypothesized that a simple selection procedure with 2 questions: “Can you perform your groceries independently?” and “Can you prepare your daily medications unassisted?”, which imply a certain level of physical and cognitive function, could identify patients with early cognitive impairment and as a result influence the outcome of hip arthroplasty following an FNF.MethodsAt our clinic, the selection procedure was introduced in 2012 to simplify decision-making in geriatric FNF. At the time of surgery, patients received a total hip arthroplasty (THA) when able to perform their grocery shopping and prepare their daily medications unassisted (n = 100); otherwise, a hemiarthroplasty (HA) was performed (n = 100). Postoperative complications and mortality were assessed retrospectively. Second, we prospectively investigated whether patients’ inability to perform groceries or prepare medications was associated with the presence of early cognitive impairment, tested with the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer’s Disease-Neuropsychological Assessment Battery.ResultsThe screening questions showed almost perfect agreement (k = 0.8; sensitivity/specificity: 82%/95%) to early cognitive impairment. The 30-day mortality for THA and HA patients was 2% and 4%, respectively. The 1-year and 5-year survivorship for the THA group was 95% and 87% and for the HA group 63% and 8%, respectively. Complication rates were comparable.ConclusionThe results might suggest that 2 simple screening questions could help in the decision-making of the appropriate surgical treatment in elderly patients suffering from a displaced FNF.     

Increased Complications and Cost Associated With Hip Arthroplasty for Femoral Neck Fracture: Evaluation of 576,119 Medicare Patients Treated With Hip Arthroplasty

BackgroundThe benefit of total hip arthroplasty (THA) for treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) and femoral neck fractures (FNFs) in the geriatric population is well established. We compare perioperative complications and cost of THA for treatment of OA to hemiarthroplasty (HA) and THA for treatment of FNF.MethodsData from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services were used to identify all patients 65 years and older undergoing primary hip arthroplasty between 2013 and 2017. Patients were divided into 3 cohorts: THA for OA (n = 326,313), HA for FNF (n = 223,811), and THA for FNF (n = 25,995). Generalized regressions were used to compare group mortality, 90-day readmission, thromboembolic events, and 90-day episode costs, controlling for age, gender, race, and comorbidities.ResultsCompared to patients treated for OA, FNF patients were older and had significantly more comorbidities (all P < .001). Even among the youngest age group (65-69 years) without comorbidities, FNF was associated with a greater risk of mortality at 90 days (THA-FNF odds ratio [OR] 9.3, HA-FNF OR 27.0, P < .001), 1 year (THA-FNF OR 7.8, HA-FNF OR 19.0, P < .001) and 5 years (THA-FNF hazard ratio 4.5, HA-FNF hazard ratio 10.0, P < .001). The average 90-day direct cost was $12,479 and $14,036 greater among THA and HA for FNF respectively compared to THA for OA (all P < .001).ConclusionAmong Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services hip arthroplasty patients, those with an FNF had significantly higher rates of mortality, thromboembolic events, readmission, and greater direct cost. Reimbursement models for arthroplasty should account for the distinctly different perioperative complication and resource utilization for FNF patients.     

Skilled Nursing Facility Following Hip Fracture Arthroplasty Diminishes Care “Value”

BackgroundValue is defined as outcome/cost. The purpose of this study was to analyze differences in the lengths of care, outcomes, and costs between skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and home with health services (HHS) for patients treated with arthroplasty for femoral neck fracture (FNF).MethodsBetween October 2018 and September 2020, 192 patients eligible for the Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement bundle program treated for a displaced FNF with total hip arthroplasty (THA) or hemiarthroplasty (HA) and discharged to SNF or HHS were analyzed for demographics, comorbidities, postoperative outcomes, costs of care, and discharge rehabilitation details. Variables were compared using chi-squared or t-tests as appropriate. There were 60 (31%) patients discharged to HHS (37% THA and 63% HA) and 132 (69%) patients discharged to SNF (14% THA and 86% HA). Patients discharged to SNF were older (P < .01), had lower Risk Assessment and Prediction Tool scores (P < .01), had higher comorbidity scores (P = .011), and had longer posthospitalization care (P < .01).ResultsThere were no differences in rates of inpatient minor complications (P = .520), inpatient major complications (P = .119), Intensive Care Unit admissions (P = .193), or readmissions within 30 (P = .690) and 90 days (P = .176). Costs of care at a SNF were higher than HHS (P < .01). In multivariate regressions, a lower Risk Assessment and Prediction Tool score was associated with discharge to SNF (odds ratio 0.69, 95% confidence interval 0.58-0.83, P < .001).ConclusionAmong Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement bundle patients treated for a displaced FNF with arthroplasty, discharge with HHS may be a more cost-effective option than discharge to a SNF that does not increase risk of readmission in medically appropriate patients.     

Should We Use Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty in Patients ≥70 Years Old With a Femoral Neck Fracture? A Review of Literature and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

BackgroundBipolar (BHA) and unipolar hemiarthroplasties (UHA) are interchangeably used in elderly patients with a displaced femoral neck fracture. We ask if there is a difference between BHA and UHA with regards to hip function, in elderly patients.MethodsSystematic review and meta-analysis was conducted of randomized controlled trials comparing BHA to UHA. The primary outcome was postoperative hip function scores. Secondary outcomes were overall health-related quality of life patient-reported outcomes, acetabular erosion, and postoperative complications. Data sources, last searched on June 1, 2020, were MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science.ResultsFourteen randomized controlled trials were eligible for meta-analysis. There was no difference in hip function scores between BHA and UHA (standardized mean difference 0.32, 95% confidence interval [CI] ?0.06 to 0.71, n = 1084, I² = 87%). Patients with BHA with more than 2-year follow-up had better hip function scores (standardized mean difference 0.68, 95% CI 0.18-1.18, n = 700, I² = 87%). There was no difference in European Quality of life- five dimensions scores with BHA (mean difference 0.08, 95% CI ?0.01 to 0.17, n = 967, I² = 82%). The use of BHA decreased the risk of acetabular erosion (relative risk 0.38, 95% CI 0.17-0.83, n = 1239, I² = 0%). There was no difference for revision, mortality, infection, and dislocation (I² = 0%).ConclusionThere seems to be no difference between BHA and UHA with regards to hip function at 2 years. BHA might decrease the risk of acetabular erosion. There is a need for a large randomized controlled trial with a follow-up >2 years and better measurement tools to assess clinical benefits.Level of evidenceII.     

The Sernbo score predicts 1-year mortality after displaced femoral neck fractures treated with a hip arthroplasty

Background and purpose — Displaced femoral neck fractures (FNFs) are associated with high rates of mortality during the first postoperative year. The Sernbo score (based on age, habitat, mobility, and mental state) can be used to stratify patients into groups with different 1-year mortality. We assessed this predictive ability in patients with a displaced FNF treated with a hemiarthroplasty or a total hip arthroplasty.

Patients and methods — 292 patients (median age 83 (65–99) years, 68% female) with a displaced FNF were included in this prospective cohort study. To predict 1-year mortality, we used a multivariate logistic regression analysis including comorbidities and perioperative management. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to evaluate the predictive ability of the Sernbo score, which was subsequently divided in a new manner into a low, intermediate, or high risk of death during the first year.

Results — At 1-year follow-up, the overall mortality rate was 24%, and in Sernbo’s low-, intermediate-, and high-risk groups it was 5%, 22%, and 51%, respectively. The Sernbo score was the only statistically significant predictor of 1-year mortality: odds ratio for the intermediate-risk group was 4.2 (95% Cl: 1.5–12) and for the high-risk group it was 15 (95% CI: 5–40). The ROC analysis showed a fair predictive ability of the Sernbo score, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.79 (95% CI: 0.73–0.83). Using a cutoff of less than 11 points on the score gave a sensitivity of 61% and a specificity of 83%.

Interpretation — The Sernbo score identifies patients who are at high risk of dying in the first postoperative year. This scoring system could be used to better tailor perioperative care and treatment in patients with displaced FNF.     

Does Prior Lumbar Fusion Influence Dislocation Risk in Hip Arthroplasty Performed for Femoral Neck Fracture?

BackgroundImmobility of the lumbar spine predicts instability following elective total hip arthroplasty (THA). The purpose of this study is to determine how prior lumbar fusion (LF) influenced dislocation rates and revision rates for patients undergoing THA or hemiarthroplasty (HA) for femoral neck fracture (FNF).MethodsA retrospective cohort analysis was conducted utilizing the PearlDiver database from 2010 to 2018. Patients who underwent arthroplasty for FNF were identified based on history of LF and whether they underwent THA or HA. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed.ResultsA total of 328 patients with prior LF and FNF who underwent THA were at increased risk for 1-year dislocation (odds ratio [OR] 2.19, P < .001) and 2-year revision (OR 2.22, P < .001) compared to 14,217 patients without LF. The 461 patients with prior LF and FNF who underwent HA were at increased risk for dislocation (OR 2.22, P < .001) compared to 42,327 patients without LF. Patients with prior LF and FNF who underwent THA had higher rates of revision than patients with prior LF who underwent HA for FNF (OR 2.11, P < .001). In patients with prior LF and FNF, THA was associated with significantly increased risk for dislocation (OR 3.07, P < .001) and revision (OR 2.53, P < .001) compared to THA performed for osteoarthritis.ConclusionPatients with prior LF who sustained an FNF and underwent THA or HA were at increased risk for early dislocation and revision compared to those without prior LF. This risk of dislocation and revision is even greater than that observed in patients with prior LF who underwent THA for osteoarthritis.Level of EvidenceLevel III.     

Postoperative Delirium in Patients Receiving Hip Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty for Displaced Femoral Neck Fractures: The Risk Factors and Further Clinical Outcomes

BackgroundPostoperative delirium in patients who have hip fractures may lead to poor outcomes. This study aimed to determine perioperative risk factors and clinical outcomes of postoperative delirium in patients undergoing hip bipolar hemiarthroplasty for displaced femoral neck fractures.MethodsAmong 1,353 patients who underwent hemiarthroplasty at our institution during 2013-2021, we identified 78 patients with postoperative delirium diagnosed with the confusion assessment method. The mean delirium duration was 28 hours (range: 15-520). We also included 1:2 sex- and age-matched patients who did not have postoperative delirium after the same surgery as a matching cohort for comparison. Patient comorbidities, perioperative data, delirium occurrence, and outcomes were collected for analyses.ResultsA Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) score ≥6 (odds ratio (OR): 2.08, P = .017), nighttime surgery (OR: 3.47, p =<.001), surgical delays (OR: 1.01, P = .012), preoperative anemia (OR: 2.1, P = .012), and blood transfusions (OR: 2.47, P = .01) may increase the risk of postoperative delirium. The presentation of delirium was associated with sepsis (OR: 3.77, P = .04), longer hospital stays (P < .001), higher 1-year mortality (OR: 3.97, P = .002), and overall mortality (OR: 2.1, P = .02).ConclusionPostoperative delirium predicted poor outcomes. Our results emphasized the importance of early identification of patients at risk and optimization of the medical conditions before and after surgery.     

Cementless Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty Using a Micro-Arc Oxidation Coated Stem in Patients with Displaced Femoral Neck Fractures

Femoral stem fixation for displaced femoral neck fractures in osteoporotic patients is an ongoing debate. We evaluated the outcome of 136 cementless bipolar hemiarthroplasty using a Micro-arc oxidation (MAO) coated stem. All patients survived the procedure and were discharged from the hospital. Thirty- and 90-day mortality rates were 0.7% and 2.2%, respectively. Ninety-eight hips were followed for a minimum of 2 years (mean, 44 months) postoperatively. Three stems were revised because of a periprosthetic fracture. Although cortical stress shielding around the stem was observed in 3 hips, there was no loosening or osteolysis. Cementless bipolar hemiarthroplasty using a MAO-coated stem is a useful and safe option to treat displaced femoral neck fractures.     

Does femoral offset recover and affect the functional outcome of patients with displaced femoral neck fracture following hemiarthroplasty?

BackgroundRestoring preoperative horizontal femoral offset (FO) promised good functional outcome in patients receiving total hip arthroplasty. However, relatively little was known regarding the clinical relevance of restoring the offset in patients with bipolar hemiarthroplasty to treat displaced femoral neck fracture. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate postoperative FO accurately and verify its relation with functional outcome.MethodsOne hundred elderly patients who received bipolar hemiarthroplasty to treat displaced femoral neck fracture were identified. Preoperative CT scanning of contralateral hip joint and reconstruction of images led to rotation-free FO. By referencing postoperative implant specification and comparing to measured values in Picture Archive and Communication System, rotation-free postoperative FO and the amount of change were acquired. Postoperative Harris Hip Score (HHS) and Modified Barthel Index (MBI) were evaluated to measure functional outcome at 12-month after the surgery. Patients with significant FO change were identified. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to determine if the FO change might independently affect the outcome regardless of confounding factors.ResultsThe mean preoperative offset was 37.4 ± 2.5 increased by 12.7 ± 9.6% after the surgery. Only 25.0% of postoperative offset after hemiarthroplasty was changed within ±5% of preoperative offset. A total of 45.0% of postoperative offset changed within ±10% while 77.0% of postoperative offset changed within ±20%. 23% of patients whose FO changed more than 20% showed significantly worse outcome score than the patients whose FO change remained within ±20% of initial value. Mean MBI and HHS were negatively correlated with FO change. After adjusting for confounding factors, significant correlation remained between modification of FO and MBI, but not between FO change and HHS (B = 4.576; β = 0.235; 95% confidence interval of B: 0.534 to 8.135).ConclusionsFO was not properly restored in 23% of subjects receiving bipolar hemiarthroplasty due to femoral neck fracture. FO restoration independently predicted fair MBI after the surgery. Therefore, surgeons should pay attention to restoring FO with meticulous templating.     

Proximal femoral nail antirotation versus hemiarthroplasty in the treatment of senile intertrochanteric fractures: Case report

BackgroundPrimary hemiarthroplasty was recommended by some surgeons as the preferred choice in treating unstable senile intertrochanteric fractures with osteoporosis. However, many studies reported that proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) currently was as an optimal implant for the treatment of different type of intertrochanteric fractures. Which method is better for treating senile intertrochanteric fractures remains controversial due to the insufficient clinical evidences.MethodsWe reviewed all consecutive senile intertrochanteric fractures treated with PFNA or cemented hemiarthroplasty at our institution between July 2010 and March 2015. The primary outcome measures were postoperative complications, reoperation rate and hip function. The secondary outcome measures were intraoperative blood loss, transfusion rate, surgical time, postoperative hemoglobin, hospital stay and 1- year mortality.ResultsSeventy-one patients in PFNA group and 52 patients in hemiarthroplasty group were included for analysis. There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding to the orthopaedic complications, reoperation rate, surgical time and Harris Hip Score at 1 year follow-up. Significant differences were found between PFNA and hemiarthroplasty group in comparison of intraoperative blood loss (P < 0.001), transfusion rate, medical complications (P = 0.037) and hospital stay (P = 0.001). Patients treated with hemiarthroplasty had a trend of higher postoperative 1- year mortality compared to those underwent PFNA but this was statistically not significant (P = 0.134).ConclusionsThese findings indicate that PFNA has obvious advantages over hemiarthroplasty in the treatment of senile intertrochanteric fractures. Hemiarthroplasty in treating these fractures is associated with greater surgical trauma and higher incidence of postoperative medical complications.     

High Incidence of Intraoperative Fractures With a Specific Cemented Stem Following Intracapsular Displaced Hip Fracture

BackgroundTo reduce costs of orthopedic implants, the government decided to standardize implants used across different specialties in a group of hospitals located in the same geographic area. The usual cemented stem used in the context of intracapsular displaced geriatric hip fractures was replaced by another stem. Abnormal intraoperative calcar and trochanteric fractures were noted. The purpose of this study is to determine the incidence of intraoperative periprosthetic fractures following an intracapsular displaced hip fracture treated with this specific cemented stem compared to the previous implant.MethodsThis is a retrospective cohort study comparing an historic cohort of hip fractures treated with the OmniFit EON (Stryker, Kalamazoo, MI) cemented stem with a new cohort of patients who received the Corail (DePuy Synthes, Warsaw, IN) cemented stem. Four orthopedic surgeons reviewed operative reports and postoperative radiographs.ResultsThe treatment group included 348 patients who received the Corail stem. The control group included 77 patients. The 2 groups had similar baseline characteristics (P > .05) except for the presence of dementia. Incidence of intraoperative calcar or greater trochanteric fracture was 15.5% for the Corail group and 2.7% for the control group (P < .05). No patient-related factors or surgeon-related factors were related to a higher number of fractures in the treatment group (P > .05).ConclusionThe Corail cemented stem presents an abnormal number of iatrogenic intraoperative fractures following displaced femoral neck fracture in our geriatric population. No external factor seems to explain this high number of fractures. Implant design should be questioned.Level of EvidenceIII.     

The direct anterior approach in hemiarthroplasty for displaced femoral neck fractures

Purpose

Hip replacement is the most common treatment for displaced femoral neck fractures in the elderly, and minimally invasive surgery is popular in the field of orthopaedic surgery. This study evaluated the outcome of monopolar hemiarthroplasty by the direct anterior approach over a postoperative period up to 2.5 years.

Methods

A total of 86 patients with displaced femoral neck fractures were included (mean age of 86.5 years). Surviving patients were reviewed three months (retrospectively) and one to 2.5 years (prospectively) after surgery. One-year mortality was 36 %.

Results

For all stems, implant positioning with respect to stem alignment, restoration of leg length and femoral offset was correct. Acetabular protrusion was observed in 55 % of the patients one to 2.5 years postoperatively. Subsidence and intraoperative periprosthetic fractures occurred in three patients (3 %) each. All revision stems for postoperative periprosthetic fractures could be implanted using the initial surgical technique without extension of the previous approach. The mean Harris hip score was 85 points at the one to 2.5-year follow-up; 85 % of the patients were satisfied with their hip and 57 % returned to their preoperative level of mobility.

Conclusion

Based on these findings, hemiarthroplasty for hip fractures can be performed safely and effectively via the direct anterior approach with good functional outcome and high patient satisfaction.     

Mortality and revision risk after femoral neck fracture: comparison of internal fixation for undisplaced fracture with arthroplasty for displaced fracture: a population-based study from Danish National Registries

Background and purpose — Hemiarthroplasty has lower reoperation frequency and better mobilization compared with internal fixation (IF) in patients with undisplaced femoral neck fractures (FNF), which might translate into lower mortality. In this population-based cohort study we compare the risk of mortality and reoperation in undisplaced FNF treated with IF and displaced FNF treated with arthroplasty in patients older than 70 years old. We assume that, per se, there is no difference in mortality risk between patients with a displaced and an undisplaced FNF.Patients and methods — Hip fracture patients were identified in the Danish Multidisciplinary Hip Fracture Registry during 2005–2015. Data on medication, comorbidities, reoperation, and mortality were retrieved from other Danish medical databases. IF and arthroplasty patients were compared with regards to mortality and reoperation up to 5 years postoperatively. We calculated hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) adjusting for relevant confounders.Results — We included 19,260 FNF treated with arthroplasty and 10,337 FNF with IF. There was an increased risk of mortality for arthroplasty within 30 days, HR 1.3 (95% CI 1.3–1.4), compared with IF but not after 1 and 5 years. Arthroplasty patients had adjusted HRs for reoperation of 0.8 (0.8–0.9) within 1 year, 0.8 (0.7–0.9) within 2 years, and 0.8 (0.8–0.9) within 5 years postoperatively compared with IF.Interpretation — Patients treated for a displaced FNF with arthroplasty had a higher risk of 30-day mortality compared with patients who had an undisplaced FNF treated with IF. It has to be considered that there were baseline differences in the groups but there was no difference in mortality risk up to 5 years post-surgery. Concerning reoperation, patients with a displaced FNF treated with arthroplasty had a lower risk of reoperation compared with IF for undisplaced FNF.

The general consensus on treating an undisplaced femoral neck fracture (FNF) with internal fixation (IF) (Dansk Sygeplejeråd et al. 2008, National Institute for Health and Care Excellence 2011, updated 2017) has been questioned by a recent meta-analysis demonstrating that treatment with hemiarthroplasty may reduce the relative risk of reoperation by 70% when compared with IF (Richards et al. 2020). The meta-analysis included 2 randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that demonstrated a 5% reoperation frequency in the hemiarthroplasty group compared with 20–21% in the IF group (Lu et al. 2017, Dolatowski et al. 2019).There may be a lower reoperation rate but neither of the 2 RCTs (Lu et al. 2017, Dolatowski et al. 2019) found a difference in patient-reported outcome after 1 year. Dolatowski et al. (2019) did find a faster mobility (Timed-Up-And-Go) in the hemiarthroplasty (HA) group and better mobilization is also found when comparing arthroplasty with IF in displaced FNF (Gjertsen et al. 2008, Jiang et al. 2015). Better mobilization after hip fracture is important as it is associated with reduced mortality after surgery (Kristensen et al. 2016). Therefore, an arthroplasty for the undisplaced FNF may also reduce the mortality compared with IF. However, the current 2 RCTs were not large enough to address the mortality question. A difference in mortality could be investigated by assuming that there is no difference per se in mortality risk between patients with a displaced and undisplaced FNF. This assumption is supported by studies comparing IF for undisplaced FNF with arthroplasty for displaced FNF showing no difference in mortality (Mukka et al. 2020, Richards et al. 2020).We therefore compared the mortality and reoperation after treatment of patients operated on by IF for undisplaced FNF compared with arthroplasty for a displaced FNF in patients ≥ 70 years old.     

A growing challenge: The rise of femoral periprosthetic fractures – An 11-year observational study

IntroductionThe demand for joint arthroplasty has risen as our elderly population increases and ages. With this so to has the number of patients suffering periprosthetic fractures (PPF). The aim of our study was to quantify the burden of PPF and provide an up to date reference of the epidemiology of PPF in Ireland. We also sought to assess length of stay (LOS), resource utilisation and mortality associated with this cohort of patients.MethodsAn eleven-year retrospective observational study was conducted of a consecutive series of patients treated for a femoral PPF. Costs were obtained from activity based tariffs provided by the hospital inpatient enquiry system and mortality was confirmed using the national death events publication system.ResultsOver the 11-year study period 174 procedures for a femoral PPF were performed. Mean age of patients was 77.6 years (SD 11.1 years) with 44.7% male. Median ASA grade was 3 (range 1–4) and mean LOS was 19 days. There was a 700% increase in patients undergoing surgery for a PPF over the study period. The mean cost of care was €24,413 in 2017. Thirty-day mortality was 2.9% while one-year mortality was 12.4%.ConclusionsPPF occur in an elderly comorbid cohort of patients. Care of these patients now makes up a considerable part of the orthopaedic workload and consumes a significant portion of healthcare resources. Patients should be treated in tertiary referral centres with surgeons skilled in their management. Better access to rehabilitation is needed.