Core Decompression with Local Administration of Zoledronate and Enriched Bone Marrow Mononuclear Cells for Treatment of Non‐Traumatic Osteonecrosis of Femoral Head

ObjectiveTo investigate the efficacy and safety of core decompression (CD) with local administration of zoledronate and enriched bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMCS) for the treatment of non‐traumatic osteonecrosis of femoral head (ONFH).MethodsA total of 17 patients (30 hips) diagnosed with stage II and III ONFH according to the 2019 revised Association for Research on Osseous Circulation (ARCO) staging criteria from 2012 to 2014 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients received the following therapy: the BMMCs and zoledronate were injected into the necrotic zone, respectively, along with CD. The mean age of the patients was 36.8 years; 14 were men and three were women. All patients included had non‐traumatic ONFH and a minimum follow‐up of 5 years, which ended when total hip arthroplasty (THA) was performed. Imaging modalities, including plain radiography, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were taken pre‐ and postoperatively. Harris hip score (HHS) was used to evaluate the functional outcomes of femoral head necrosis. Kaplan–Meier analysis was adopted to determine the probability of survivorship with THA as the end point in this series of patients. The correlation between radiological progression or THA and related risk factors were further analyzed. All complications were recorded.ResultsWith THA as the follow‐up endpoint, All patients were followed up for an average of 69.1 ± 20.5 months (range, 18–95 months). Preoperative imaging found six hips (20%) at ARCO stage II, 14 hips (46.7%) at stage IIIA, 10 hips (33.3%) at stage IIIB. Fourteen hips (46.7%) shown progression radiologically, while six hips (20%) underwent TKA among these patients with hip preservation. The cumulative survival was 80% (95% CI, 0.608–905) at 5 years with THA as the end point. HHS improved from 63.3 ± 8.7 preoperatively to 74.6 ± 20.6 postoperatively (P = 0.000). Radiological progression was found to be associated with ARCO stage, Japanese Investigation Committee (JIC) type, and corticosteroid exposure (P = 0.047; P = 0.012; P = 0.031). However, no correlation was found between conversion to THA and the known risk factors. No major complication was reported, with only four patients complaining about general weakness and muscle soreness, and all disappeared within 2–3 days.ConclusionsThe novel treatment modality could relieve pain, delay the progression of collapse, which might be an effective and safe method for hip preservation of early and mid‐term ONFH. However, the effect of this method may be related to ARCO stage, JIC type, and corticosteroid exposure.     

Core Decompression Prevents Progression of Asymptomatic Type C Osteonecrosis of Femoral Head According to the Japanese Investigation Committee Classification: A Retrospective Study

ObjectiveTo evaluate whether core decompression could prevent progression of asymptomatic type C osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) according to the Japanese Investigation Committee (JIC) classification.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study included 124 hips (117 patients) with asymptomatic type C ONFH. Seventy‐one hips (67 patients) received core decompression (core decompression group) and 53 hips (50 patients) received no surgical treatment (control group). Clinical and radiological follow‐up was conducted at 6 and 12 months, then annually until 5 years. Clinical outcomes were evaluated in terms of the Oxford hip score and UCLA Activity Level rating. Radiological outcomes were evaluated using X‐ray and magnetic resonance imaging. Survival analysis was performed based on collapse of the femoral head as the first endpoint and total hip arthroplasty (THA) as the second endpoint.ResultsThere were no significant differences in clinical outcomes between the core decompression group and the control group within 2 years after surgery. Patients in the core decompression group had significantly better Oxford hip score and UCLA Activity Level from year 3 to the end of follow‐up (P < 0.05). In year 5, the absolute difference in Oxford hip score (5.3 points) exceeded the reported minimal clinically important difference (MCID, 5.2 points). In years 3–5, the absolute difference in UCLA Activity Level rating (0.95 points, 0.95 points, and 0.99 points, respectively) exceeded the reported MCID (0.92 points). By 5‐year follow‐up, significantly fewer patients in the core decompression group had experienced femoral head collapse (40.8% vs 62.3%, P = 0.011) or received THA (26.8% vs 45.3%, p = 0.022).ConclusionsCore decompression can prevent progression of asymptomatic type C ONFH according to the JIC classification, leading to better medium‐term hip function and activity levels than no surgical treatment. Core decompression is recommended for early intervention against asymptomatic type C ONFH.     

Mid‐ to Long‐Term Outcomes of Cementless Modular,Fluted, Tapered Stem for Massive Femoral Bone Loss in Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty

ObjectiveTo evaluate mid‐ to long‐term results of revision total hip arthroplasty for massive femoral bone loss using a cementless modular, fluted, tapered stem.MethodsThis is a retrospective study performed at a single hospital. During the period of January 2007 to January 2015, 33 patients (34 hips) underwent primary revision surgery with cementless modular, fluted, tapered stems due to femoral bone loss. Sixteen men and 17 women were included in the study, with an average age of 63.9 ± 11.7 years (range, 27 to 88 years). Operative data including operative duration, length of incision, drainage volume and duration, blood loss and transfusion, cases of bone graft and extended trochanteric osteotomy were recorded. Clinical evaluation was performed using Harris hip score (HHS), visual analogue scale (VAS), and patients'' satisfaction. Radiographic data including femoral stem fixation, subsidence, integrin of allograft bone, and leg length discrepancy were assessed. Complications and survivorship were evaluated using Kaplan–Meier survival rate.ResultsThe mean follow‐up was 9.1 ± 2.5 years (range, 5–13 years). The Harris hip score was 43.6 ± 11.5 preoperatively and maintained at 86.5 ± 6.6 at the time of latest follow‐up (P < 0. 05). The X‐ray showed bone ingrowth fixation in 30 hips (88%), fibrous stable fixation in three hips (9%), and instability in one hip (3%). The average stem subsidence was 3.9 ± 2.2 mm (range, 1 to 10 mm). The mean difference in leg length in our study was 3.3 ± 2.7 mm (range, 0 to 10 mm), and the leg length discrepancy in 28 (82%) patients was within 5 mm. No case of junction fracture was observed. Seven (21%) intraoperative fractures occurred in our study. Three (9%) cases with infection were observed after revision. Six (18%) patients had lower limb vein thrombosis. The survivorship of prostheses with re‐revision for any reason was 95% (95% CI, 12.0 to 13.0) at the 10‐year follow‐up. Three (9%) re‐revisions were needed, including one for aseptic loosening, one for dislocation, and one for infection.ConclusionThe mid‐ to long‐term results of revision total hip arthroplasty with the cementless modular, fluted, tapered stems are encouraging for massive femoral bone loss.     

Long‐Term Clinical Outcomes and Survivorship of Total Hip Arthroplasty for Pyogenic Arthritis: A Retrospective Cohort Study of 168 Hips

ObjectiveThe aim of the present study was to evaluate the 10‐year outcomes of cementless total hip arthroplasty (THA) in adult patients with the late sequelae of septic arthritis of the hip.MethodsWe followed 166 consecutive patients (168 hips) who underwent cementless THA between March 2001 and December 2011. There were 79 men and 87 women, with a mean age of 50.4 years (range 21–76 years) at the time of index THA, all of whom had hip osteoarthritis secondary to hip pyogenic infection. The average duration of follow up was 10.6 years (range 6.9–17.2 years). Preoperative and postoperative clinical ratings were evaluated, including the hip dysfunction and osteoarthritis outcome score (HOOS), the Harris hip score (HHS), range of motion, a 100‐point visual analog scale for hip pain, and the severity of limp and limb length discrepancy (LLD). The anteroposterior and lateral radiographs of the hip and full‐length view of the lower extremities were obtained to assess the position of the components, radiolucent lines, osteolysis, loosening of components, and heterotopic ossification. The intraoperative and postoperative complications were also recorded.ResultsThe mean HSS and hip pain score were 44.2 points (range 29–66 points) and 42.5 points (range 32–64 points), respectively, before the index surgery and significantly improved to 88.1 points (range 78–96 points) and 15.1 points (range 10–26 points), respectively, at final follow‐up examination. The HOOS and range of motion also improved significantly. The mean limb length discrepancy was reduced from 2.6 to 0.8 cm. The limp at last follow‐up examination was moderate in 3 cases because of hip osteoarthritis in the other limb, slight in 26, and absent in 137. A radiolucent line was observed in 12 hips (7.1%) around the acetabular or femoral components. A progressive radiolucent line around the undersized femoral stem in all zones was seen in 1 hip, resulting in aseptic loosening and breakage of the femoral component. There were 8 cases of intraoperative fracture, 7 cases of dislocation, and 7 cases of transient nerve palsy. Recurrence of infection occurred in 2 hips. Revision surgery was conducted in 2 hips because of isolated loosening of the acetabular cup and the femoral stem, respectively. Kaplan–Meier survival was 97% at 10 years, with revision for any reason with any component as an end‐point.ConclusionImproved surgical techniques and development of components with various sizes provided favorable results for cementless THA conducted for late sequelae of sepsis in these young and active patients. Although the incidence of complications was relatively high, the complications were treated successfully.     

Fourth‐Generation Ceramic‐on‐Ceramic THA in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Minimum 10‐Year Follow‐Up

ObjectiveTo report the long‐term outcomes of total hip arthroplasty (THA) with fourth‐generation ceramic‐on‐ceramic (CoC) bearing in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS).MethodsWe retrospectively identified 180 primary THAs performed in 110 patients with AS, including 100 (90.9%) men and 10 women (9.1%), from 2009 to 2011.The mean age of the patients at surgery was 33 years (range, 16 to 65 years). Cementless prostheses with fourth‐generation CoC bearings were used in all patients. Survivorship of the implants and postoperative complications were calculated. Functional improvement was assessed by the hip flexion‐extension range of motion (ROM) and Harris hip score (HHS). A special noise assessment questionnaire was performed at the last follow‐up. The cumulative incidence of noise was calculated by the Kaplan–Meier method with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Clinical characteristics and functional outcomes were compared in the hips with noise to those without noise.ResultsThe mean follow‐up was 11 years (range, 10 to 12 years), and survivorship of the implants was 99.4% at the most recent follow‐up. The complications included dislocation (one hip, 0.6%), periprosthetic joint infection (one hip, 0.6%), mild to moderate pain (five hips, 2.8%), heterotopic ossification (12 hips, 6.7%), and noise (52 hips, 28.9%). The flexion‐extension ROM improved significantly with a median from 10° (range, 0 ~ 130°) to 100° (30 ~ 130°) after THA (p < 0.001), and the HHS increased significantly from 41 ± 20 to 90 ± 8 (p < 0.001). The cumulative incidence of noise at 0.5, 5, and 10 years was 6.1% (95% CI, 2.6 ~ 9.6), 16.7% (95% CI, 11.2 ~ 22.1), and 28.9% (95% CI, 22.2 ~ 35.5), respectively, and that of squeaking at 0.5, 5, and 10 years was 4.4% (95% CI, 1.4 ~ 7.4), 13.3% (95% CI, 8.4 ~ 18.3), and 23.9% (95% CI, 17.6 ~ 30.1), respectively. None of the patients with noise generation in the hip reported it affecting daily activities or causing dissatisfaction. No differences in age, sex, BMI, disease duration, bilateral THA, the frequency of bony ankylosis, the proportion of using a 36‐mm‐diameter femoral head, pre/postoperative flexion‐extension ROM, or pre/postoperative HHS were found between hips with noise and those without noise (p > 0.05).ConclusionTHAs with fourth‐generation CoC bearings exhibit excellent long‐term survival and clinical outcomes in patients with AS, with a very low dislocation rate. The incidence of noise associated with CoC bearings in THA performed in patients increases over time, but it does not affect postoperative hip function or daily activities.     

Outcomes of free vascularized fibular graft for post-traumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head

IntroductionOsteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) can occur after traumatic injuries of the hip. Surgical treatment with total hip arthroplasty (THA) may not produce lifelong viability in younger patients. Free vascularized fibular graft (FVFG) has become a reliable method to delay or even avoid THA in this patient population by aiming to correct loss of viable bone through vascularized autologous bone transfer. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the longevity and outcomes of FVFG for traumatic hip injuries resulting in ONFH.MethodsWe performed a retrospective review of our institutional database of patients who had undergone FVFG from 1980-2006 for post-traumatic ONFH and had a minimum follow-up of 5 years. Data collected included demographics, pre-operative Urbaniak ONFH staging, Harris Hip scores (HHS), SF-12 scores, and conversion to THA.ResultsSeventy-two hips in 68 patients met inclusion criteria. Mean follow-up was 11.6 years (range 5.1–33.2 years). Etiology included femoral neck fracture in 36 patients (61%), hip dislocation in 7 (12%), trauma without fracture or dislocation in 11 (19%), and femoral neck nonunion in 5 (8%). The most common stage at presentation was stage IV (48 patients). Graft survival at final follow-up (mean 10.9 years) was 64%, with mean time to conversion to THA of 8.4 years in those that did not survive (36%). There was no difference between THA conversion rates in hips with pre-collapse (Stage I and II) versus impending or post-collapse (Stage III or IV) lesions (p = 0.227). In hips with surviving grafts at final follow-up, mean HHS improved from 56.7 to 77.3 (SD 24.57, range 69–93), a mean improvement of 20.6 (p < 0.001).ConclusionsOur study reveals improvement in HHS in surviving FVFG and an acceptable overall THA conversion rate at mid to long term follow-up in Urbaniak stage I through IV hips. FVFG remains a viable option for treatment in younger patients with pre- and post-collapse (stage IV) ONFH lesions secondary to hip trauma.     

Three‐Dimensional Distribution of Bone‐Resorption Lesions in Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head Based on the Three‐Pillar Classification

ObjectiveTo investigate three‐dimensional distribution of bone‐resorptive lesions based on the three‐pillar classification and its effect on the disease progression of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH).MethodsA total of 194 femoral head CT images from 117 patients diagnosed with ARCO stage II and III ONFH were retrospectively reviewed from April 2014 to February 2019. Three‐dimensional structures of the femoral head and the bone‐resorptive lesions were reconstructed. Using the three‐pillar classification and coronal plane of the femoral head, we divided each femoral head into six regions to observe the location characteristics of bone‐resorption lesions, and explore the destruction of different areas of the femoral head by the bone‐resorptive lesions. Then the hips were divided into two groups based on whether they contained bone‐resorption lesions and compared the difference of stage II and stage III between the two groups.ResultsThe regional distribution revealed 39 (27.27%), 55 (38.46%), six (4.20%), 23 (16.08%), 17 (11.89%) and three (2.10%) bone‐resorptive lesions in regions I, II, III, IV, V and VI respectively. The lateral pillar, AL (I + IV), contained 44.76% of the lesions, central pillar, C (II + V), 48.95%, and medial pillar, M (III + VI), 6.29%. Moreover, there were 81.82% bone‐resorption lesions in anterolateral pillar, AL (I + II + IV), and 18.18% in posteromedial pillar, PM (III + V + VI). In all ONFH hips, the lateral pillar of 81(88.04%) femoral heads were affected, the central pillar of 84 (91.30%) femoral heads were affected, and the medical pillar of 29 (31.52%) femoral heads were affected. The ratio of ARCO stage III in the group with bone‐resorption lesions was significantly higher than that of the group without bone‐resorption lesions (76.09% vs 30.39%, P < 0.001).ConclusionsThis study demonstrated that the bone‐resorption lesions are mainly distributed in the lateral and central pillar of the femoral head, and the two pillars of the femoral head are usually involved by bone‐resorption lesions. Furthermore, the ratio of ARCO stage III in the group with bone‐resorption lesions was significantly higher than that of the group without bone‐resorption lesions, suggesting that the bone‐resorption lesions might accelerate the progression of ONFH.     

Restoring Rotation Center in Total Hip Arthroplasty for Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip with the Assistance of Three Dimensional Printing Technology: A Pilot Study

ObjectiveTo develop a new method to restore hip rotation center exactly and rapidly in total hip arthroplasty (THA) with the assistance of three dimensional (3D) printing technology and evaluate its clinical and radiological outcomes.MethodsFrom March 2014 to July 2018, a total of 17 patients (five hips of four men and 16 hips of 13 women) with end‐stage osteoarthritis secondary to developmental dysplasia of the hip who underwent THA were analyzed and followed up retrospectively. The average age is 58.00 ± 8.12 years (range from 45 to 71 years). Simulated operations were performed on 3D printed hip models for preoperative planning. The morphology of Harris fossa and acetabular notches were recognized and restored to locate the acetabular center. The size of bone defect was measured by the bone wax method. The agreement on the size of acetabular cup and bone defect between simulated operations and actual operations were analyzed. Harris Hip Score (HHS) was used to evaluate the recovery of hip joint function. The vertical distance and horizontal distance of the rotation center on the pelvis plain radiograph were measured, which were used to assess the efficacy of restoring hip rotation center and acetabular cup migration.ResultsThe mean sizes of bone defect in simulated operations and THA were 4.58 ± 2.47 cm² and 4.55 ± 2.57 cm² respectively. There was no significant difference statistically between the sizes of bone defect in simulated operations and the actual sizes of bone defect in THA (t = 0.03, P = 0.97). The sizes of the acetabular cup of simulated operations on 3D print models showed a high rate of coincidence with the actual sizes in the operations (ICC = 0.93). All 17 patients were available for clinical and radiological follow‐up. The average follow‐up time was 18.35 ± 6.86 months (range, 12–36 months. The average HHS of the patients was improved from (38.33 ± 6.07) preoperatively to the last follow‐up (88.61 ± 3.44) postoperatively. The mean vertical and horizontal distances of hip rotation center on the pelvic radiographs were restored to 15.12 ± 1.25 mm and 32.49 ± 2.83 mm respectively. No case presented dislocation or radiological signs of loosening until last follow‐up.ConclusionsThe application of 3D printing technology facilitates orthopedists to recognize the morphology of Harris fossa and acetabular notches, locate the acetabular center and restore the hip rotation center rapidly and accurately.     

带血管蒂骨瓣转移治疗双侧股骨头缺血性坏死的疗效分析

背景：非创伤性股骨头缺血性坏死（ONFH）常双侧发病,治疗更加困难,采用保留股骨头的治疗方法较为理想。目前,采用带血管蒂骨瓣转移治疗双侧ONFH疗效的报道甚少。 目的：探讨应用带血管蒂髂骨瓣转移治疗双侧ONFH的早中期临床疗效。 方法：2009年1月至2010年12月共收治双侧ONFH患者22例44髋,男10例,女12例;年龄22~41岁,平均32.6岁;体重指数（BMI）16.5~30,平均23.9。按ARCO分期标准分为：Ⅱb期9髋,Ⅱc期14髋,Ⅲa期8髋,Ⅲb期5髋,Ⅲc期8髋。术中所取血管蒂均为旋股外侧血管升支髂棘支骨瓣转移术。双髋分两次进行手术,手术间隔12~16个月,平均14个月。 结果：随访时间为36~47个月,平均40.3个月,单髋术中失血量200~500 ml,平均358 ml。双侧髋关节术后6个月、12个月的Harris髋关节评分（HHS）均较各自术前有明显提高;双侧髋关节术后相同时间点的HHS评分比较无统计学差异。初次手术侧1髋术后出现切口脂肪液化经换药痊愈,其余均无围手术期并发症。术后根据ARCO分期标准2髋由Ⅲb期病变进展至Ⅲc期;1髋由Ⅲc期进展至Ⅳ期,并于术后14个月进行人工关节置换手术。 结论：应用带血管蒂髂骨瓣转移分两次手术治疗双侧ONFH,合适的手术间隔对初次手术侧功能恢复影响较小,双侧髋关节术后早期临床功能评价较高,是治疗双侧ARCOⅡ~Ⅲ期ONFH的有效方法。     

Comparison of Tri‐Lock Bone Preservation Stem and the Conventional Standard Corail Stem in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty

ObjectiveTo compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes between the Tri‐Lock Bone Preservation Stem (BPS) and the conventional standard Corail stem in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA).MethodsFrom March 2012 to May 2014, we retrospectively reviewed 84 patients (104 hips) who received Tri‐Lock (BPS) and 84 patients (115 hips) who received conventional standard Corail stem in THA. Their mean ages were 53.12 ± 2.32 years and 52.00 ± 2.11 years, respectively. The clinical outcomes were assessed by Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), Pain Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Harris Hip Score (HHS). The radiological outcomes were evaluated by the radiological examination. Accordingly, Intraoperative and postoperative complications were observed as well.ResultsThe mean follow‐up time was 48.23 ± 2.91 months in the Tri‐Lock (BPS) group and 49.11 ± 2.11 months in the Corail group, respectively. The bleeding volumes in two groups were comparable (169.22 ± 58.11 mL vs 179.30 ± 59.14 mL, P = 0.003), with more bleeding volume in Corail group patients, while no statistically significance with respect to operation time was observed (65.41 ± 6.24 min vs 63.99 ± 6.33 min, P = 0.567). The rates of intraoperative fracture was 8% for the Corail group while 1% for the Tri‐Lock (BPS) group (8% vs 1%, P = 0.030). At final follow‐up, no statistical differences in regard to HHS, WOMAC, and Pain VAS were revealed between the two groups (P > 0.05). The rate of thigh pain was higher in Corail group than in Tri‐lock (BPS) group (5% vs 0%, P = 0.043). However, incidence of stress shielding in grade 1 was higher in Tri‐Lock (BPS) than in the Corail group (76% vs 23%, P < 0.01), while those in grade 2 and 3 were lower compared to the Corail stem (15% vs 28%, P < 0.01; 9% vs 16%, P = 0.008, respectively). Intriguingly, other assessments in relation to radiographic outcomes and postoperative complications were not comparable between the two groups. The Kaplan–Meier survival rate (revision surgery performed for any reason was defined as the end point) was similar between the two groups (P = 0.57), with 98.8% (95% confidence interval, 92.3%–100%) in Tri‐lock (BPS) group and 97.6% (95% confidence interval, 94.6%–100%) in Corail group.ConclusionsThe Tri‐Lock (BPS) has similar clinic performances compared to the Corail stem. Furthermore, the Tri‐lock (BPS) stem has some advantages in achieving lower incidence of thigh pain, stress shielding and intra‐operative fracture. Therefore, we recommend the Tri‐lock (BPS) stem as a good alternative in primary total hip arthroplasty, especially taking into account patient factors, including bone deficiency and convenience of extraction of the stem in hip revision.     

Efficacy of Modified Lightbulb Technique by Percutaneous Femoral Neck-Head Fenestration Combined With Compacted Artificial Bone Graft for Treating Precollapse Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head

BackgroundWhether artificial bone provides comparable outcomes to autogenous bone has not been determined for osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). This study was conducted to compare the clinical outcomes of autogenous and artificial bone grafting (demineralized bone matrix/calcium sulfate [DBM/CaS]) through a modified lightbulb technique by percutaneous femoral neck-head fenestration for treating precollapse ONFH.MethodsA total of 73 Association Research Circulation Osseous Stage Ⅱ ONFH patients (81 hips) who had a mean follow-up of 61 months (range, 52 to 74) were included in this retrospective study. Among them were 40 hips treated with autogenous bone and 41 hips treated with DBM/CaS grafting through the percutaneous femoral neck-head fenestration. The Harris scores, radiographic progressions, clinical success rates, and survival analyses were analyzed.ResultsAt final follow-up, the mean Harris score was 80 points (range, 63 to 92) in the DBM/CaS group and 76 points (range, 69 to 91) in the autogenous bone group (P = .751). The radiographic progression rate was 29.9% in the DBM/CaS group, without significant difference from the autogenous bone group, which was 37.5% (P = .43). About 73.2% of patients in the DBM/CaS group and 75% in the autologous bone group avoided a total hip arthroplasty (P = .85). Survival analysis for femoral head protection revealed similar outcomes between the 2 groups (P > .05).ConclusionPercutaneous femoral neck-head fenestration combined with artificial bone (DBM/CaS) grafting had comparable clinical outcomes to autologous bone grafting on preventing femoral head collapse and rescuing THA at a mean of 61-month follow-up for treating early ONFH.     

Rapid and Severe Idiopathic Aseptic Necrosis of the Contralateral Femoral Head after Unilateral Total Hip Arthroplasty

BackgroundOsteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a multifactorial disease, and agnogenic ONFH, otherwise known as idiopathic ONFH, is rare in clinic. Idiopathic ONFH that exhibits severe necrosis and progresses extremely rapidly is called rapidly destructive hip disease (RDHD). RDHD greatly affects patients but is rarely reported in clinical practice and literature.Case PresentationIn this study, a 64‐year‐old male patient with complete collapse and necrosis of the right femoral head complicated with severe bone destruction at 10 months after left total hip arthroplasty (THA) was reported. The period from the intact structure of the right femoral head to the first discovery of its complete collapse, according to imaging results, was 7 months. The duration from the occurrence of symptoms in the right hip joint to the first discovery of complete collapse and necrosis of the femoral head was only 5 months. At present, the cause has not been determined based on medical history, symptoms, signs, imaging evaluation results, laboratory examination results, and pathological examination results, though it has been identified as severe idiopathic aseptic necrosis of the femoral head with rapid progression, or RDHD. Finally, right THA was performed, and a good outcome was observed in the patient at present.ConclusionsAs a rare hip joint disease, RDHD greatly influences the normal life of patients. RDHD of the contralateral side after unilateral THA is even scarcer. Left THA may be one of the important factors accelerating the necrosis of the right femoral head. Hopefully, with this case report, more attention will be paid to the contralateral hip joint in patients undergoing unilateral THA by clinicians and rehabilitation physicians, and a clinical reference will be provided for the research on RDHD.     

Curved Intertrochanteric Varus Osteotomy vs Total Hip Arthroplasty for Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head in Patients Under 50 Years Old

BackgroundGiven recent advances in total hip arthroplasty (THA), curved intertrochanteric varus osteotomy (CVO) is not indicated as a treatment for osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH), unless indicated to maintain long-term hip function and achieve patient satisfaction. We aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of CVO with those of THA for treatment of ONFH in young adults <50 years old.MethodsThis comparative study included 105 ONFH patients: 59 patients (65 hips) who underwent CVO and 46 patients (56 hips) who underwent THA. Assessment tools included the Harris hip score (HHS), patient-reported outcomes of the Short Form-36, Oxford hip score, Japanese Orthopaedic Association Hip-Disease Evaluation Questionnaire, and University of California, Los Angeles score, together with complication and survival rates.ResultsPreoperative HHS was significantly higher in the CVO group than in the THA group (P < .01). At the last follow-up, no between-group differences were noted in HHS, all domains of Japanese Orthopaedic Association Hip-Disease Evaluation Questionnaire scores, Oxford hip score, and Short Form-36. University of California, Los Angeles scores and complication rates were comparable: 3% for the CVO and 7% for the THA group. The 10-year survival rate with surgery for any reason as the end point was comparable, at 91.8% for the CVO and 97.7% for the THA group.ConclusionFunctional outcomes, survival rate, and sporting activities for patients <50 years old undergoing CVO or THA for ONFH were comparable after a mean follow-up period of 10 years. Strict indications for CVO can help maintain hip function and patient satisfaction equivalent to that for THA, in the long term.     

Impaction Bone Grafting Combined with Titanium Mesh for Acetabular Bone Defects Reconstruction in Total Hip Arthroplasty Revision: A Retrospective and Mini‐Review Study

ObjectiveTo investigate the application of impaction bone grafting (IBG) combined with Ti‐alloy mesh for acetabular bone defect reconstruction in total hip arthroplasty (THA) revision and follow up the clinical outcomes and imaging findings.MethodsThe clinical and imaging data of patients who were admitted to our hospital from January 2000 to December 2020 and underwent acetabular bone defects reconstruction using IBG combined with titanium mesh were retrospectively analyzed. Preoperative and post‐revision Oxford and Harris scores, and post‐revision complications were evaluated. Radiographs were used to determine center of rotation (COR) of the hip joint, transparency line, bone graft fusion, and bone mineral density (BMD) around the hip joint.ResultsSignificant improvement was observed in both Oxford and Harris scores (P < 0.05). The radiographs taken at the last follow‐up examination showed no significant differences in the acetabulum COR, offsets, inclination angle, mean ratio of vertical value, and BMD analysis between the post‐revision side and contralateral side (P > 0.05). The follow‐up data showed restoration of the mesh implant and graft bone fusion.ConclusionsThe application of IBG combined with titanium‐alloy mesh in revision THA patients with acetabular defects was found to provide satisfactory outcomes. However, large‐scale studies are still needed to further elucidate the long‐term outcomes.     

Aggressive Presentation and Rapid Progression of Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head After COVID-19

BackgroundWe aim to report the consecutive patients diagnosed with osteonecrosis of femoral head (ONFH) following recovery from COVID-19 disease and elucidate the unique features of ONFH associated with COVID-19.MethodsConsecutive 22 patients (39 hips) recovered from COVID-19 and presented with ONFH from November 2020 to October 2021 were included. All the patients received corticosteroids as a supportive treatment during COVID-19. Patients were classified into two types based on the type of presentation, namely classic ONFH and rapidly destructive coxarthrosis (RDC) depending on radiographs, MRI, inflammatory markers and hip aspiration findings. Harris hip score was used to evaluate the functional outcome before and after treatment.ResultsThe mean time to diagnose of ONFH from the onset of hip symptoms was 39.3 days (range 10–90 days). The average duration of onset of hip symptoms after COVID 19 infection was 7.5 months (range 3 – 11 months). The average cumulative dose of methylprednisolone equivalent was 811 mg (range 200–2100 mg) and the average duration of steroid intake was 2.8 weeks. There was significant elevation in the inflammatory markers in RDC group compared to classic ONFH (p < 0.05). The Harris hip score improved from 63.6 ± 23.2 at presentation to 82.6 ± 9.6 after treatment (p < 0.05). Three patients had features of RDC. Among the three patients with RDC, two patients had rapid progression of ONFH and underwent total hip arthroplasty (THA). The third patient is awaiting a THA.ConclusionONFH after COVID-19 can have a varied presentation. While the most common presentation is like classical ONFH, some patients can have an acute and aggressive presentation with rapid destruction. They have features like elevated serological markers and extensive periarticular bone and soft tissue edema. A low cumulative dose of steroids in our patients suggests that the COVID-19-associated vasculitis may play a role in the pathogenesis of ONFH.     

Treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head with thorough debridement,bone grafting and bone-marrow mononuclear cells implantation

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a disease with a wide-ranging etiology and poorly understood pathogenesis seen commonly in young patients. Various head-preserving procedures have been used to avert the need for total hip replacement. These include vascularized and non-vascularized bone grafting procedures, bone marrow containing osteogenic precursors implanted into the necrotic lesion. We use drills, curettes, broaches under image intensifier to perform a thorough debridement of all necrotic lesion, pack autogenous cortical and cancellous bone which were harvested from the ipsilateral iliac crest tightly into the femoral head, implant bone-marrow mononuclear cells containing mesenchymal stem cells into the necrotic lesion. The study included 15 patients (20 hips, 10 males, 5 females, mean age 35 years, range 23–58 years) with stage II–III ONFH according to the association research circulation osseous classification. The outcome was determined by changes in the Harris hip score (HHS), by progression in radiographic stages, and by the need for hip arthroplasty. The mean follow-up was 24 months (range 9–36 months). The mean HHS increased from 64 to 85 points. The overall clinical success rate is 80 %. There were no infection, femoral neck fracture or other complications. Thorough debridement, autogenous bone grafting and bone-marrow mononuclear cells implantation is an effective procedure in patient with small lesion, early-stage ONFH.     

Treatment of early stage osteonecrosis of the femoral head with autologous implantation of bone marrow-derived and cultured mesenchymal stem cells

Background

Treatment of early-stage osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) with autologous implantation of iliac crest bone marrow-derived mononuclear cells, which contain tens of thousands of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs), recently achieved a promising outcome.

Methods

One hundred patients with early-stage ONFH were recruited and randomly assigned to BMMSC treatment or core decompression (CD) treatment. Each BMMSC-treated hip received femoral head (FH) implantation of 2 × 10⁶ autologous subtrochanteric bone marrow-derived and ex vivo expanded BMMSCs. The radiographic stage of ONFH according to the Association Research Circulation Osseous classification, Harris hip score (HHS), and the volume of the necrotic lesion or the low signal intensity zone (LowSIZ) in the FH were assessed before and 6, 12, 24, and 60 months after the initial operation.

Results

Sixty months after the operation, only 2 of the 53 BMMSC-treated hips progressed and underwent vascularized bone grafting. In CD group, 7 hips lost follow-up, and 10 of the rest 44 hips progressed and underwent vascularized bone grafting (5 hips) or total hip replacement (5 hips). Compared with the CD group, BMMSC treatment significantly improved the HHS as well as decreased the volume of femoral head LowSIZ of the hips preoperatively classified at stage IC, IIB, and IIC (P < 0.05, respectively; stage IIA, P = 0.06, respectively). No complication was observed in both treatment groups.

Conclusions

Ex vivo expansion of autologous BMMSCs can reliably provide a greater number of BMMSCs for FH implantation. This intervention is safe and effective in delaying or avoiding FH collapse, which may necessitate total hip replacement.     

Subspine Hypertrophy: Higher Incidence of Symptomatic versus Asymptomatic Hips in Patients with Unilateral Femoroacetabular Impingement

ObjectiveTo compare the difference of anterior inferior iliac spine (AIIS) and subspine hypertrophic deformity between symptomatic and asymptomatic hips in patients traditionally diagnosed with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), and investigate the correlation of subspine decompression with AIIS variation and subspine hypertrophic deformity.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed 70 patients with unilateral symptomatic FAI who underwent hip arthroscopy. The operative hips and contralateral hips naturally formed the symptomatic groups and asymptomatic control groups, respectively. The morphometric comparison of the hip joint was performed between the operative and contralateral sides of each patient. Radiological assessment was performed by two observers (an experienced musculoskeletal radiologist and an experienced surgeon). Three‐dimensional (3D)‐CT images of each patient were blindly reviewed to determine the AIIS variation and subspine hypertrophic deformity. Reformatted two‐dimensional (2D)‐CT images and anterior–posterior (AP) pelvic plain radiographs were blindly reviewed to determine FAI‐related morphological measurements. Moreover, the surgical assessment was reviewed by one experienced surgeon to interpret whether subspine decompression was performed. The correlation of subspine decompression with AIIS variation and subspine hypertrophy was analyzed.ResultsOut of 70 patients with unilateral symptomatic FAI, 37 were males (52.9%) and 23 (32.9%) had symptoms involving the left hip. The mean age was 39.3 ± 10.4 years and the mean BMI was 24.3 ± 3.6. The distribution of AIIS variants in symptomatic hips did not differ significantly from that in asymptomatic hips (χ² = 3.092, P = 0.213). Twenty‐nine hips in the symptomatic group (41.4%) and 12 hips in the asymptomatic group (17.1%) were identified as positive for subspine hypertrophy. The incidence of positive subspine hypertrophy was significantly higher in the symptomatic hips compared to the asymptomatic hips (χ² = 9.968, P = 0.002). FAI‐related morphological parameters including α angle, lateral center‐edge angle, acetabular anteversion, crossover sign, and Tonnis grade were highly symmetrical and did not show significant differences between symptomatic and asymptomatic hips. Fifty‐four of 70 hips (77.1%) had labral tears extended to the acetabular rim corresponding to the AIIS. Forty‐seven hips of 70 hips (67.1%) underwent subspine decompression, which was significantly correlated with AIIS variation and subspine hypertrophic deformity (P = 0.019 and 0.001, respectively).ConclusionSubspine hypertrophic deformity was found to be more common in symptomatic side vs asymptomatic side in patients with unilateral symptomatic femoroacetabular impingement. Subspine hypertrophy may be considered as an underlying indication for subspine decompression besides low‐lying AIIS.     

Management of osteonecrosis of the femoral head: A novel technique

Background:Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a debilitating disease in orthopedics, frequently progressing to femoral head collapse and osteoarthritis. It is thought to be a multifactorial disease. ONFH ultimately results in femoral head collapse in 75–85% of untreated patients. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) yields satisfactory results in the treatment of the end stage of the disease. However, disease typically affects males between the ages of 20 and 40 years and joint replacement is not the ideal option for younger patients. Recently, mesenchymal stem cells and platelet rich plasma (PRP) have been used as an adjunct to core decompression to improve clinical success in the treatment of precollapse hips.Results:The mean HHS improved from 46.0 ± 7.8 preoperatively to 90.28 ± 19 at the end of followup (P < 0.0001). The mean values of VAS were 78 ± 21 and 35 ± 19 at preoperatively period and final followup, respectively, with an average reduction of 43 points.Conclusion:We found that the use of PRP with collagen sheet can increase the reparable capacity after drilling of necrotic segment in stage IIb and III ONFH.     

Concentrated autologous bone marrow aspirate transplantation treatment for corticosteroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head in systemic lupus erythematosus

The purpose of this study was to evaluate concentrated autologous bone marrow aspirate transplantation (CABMAT) treatment for corticosteroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Bone marrow was aspirated from iliac crests, concentrated on a conventional manual blood bag centrifugation technique that is used to extract buffy coats and then injected into nine hips with drilling. The mean number of nucleated cells for transplantation was 5.32 × 10⁷ cells/ml. This cell concentration was significantly higher after concentration, and the mean concentration ratio was 5.5. At follow-up (minimum: three years), significant improvement in pain and Harris Hip Score was observed. For eight of nine hips, we successfully preserved the femoral head. However, one hip required total hip arthroplasty 45 months after the operation. CABMAT using our centrifugation technique is an effective, safe and low-cost procedure of therapeutic osteogenesis for corticosteroid-induced ONFH in SLE.