Hip arthroplasty for acute hip fracture in patients with neurological disorders: A report Of 9,702 cases from the Swedish arthroplasty register

IntroductionThe purpose of this study was to investigate neurological disorder as a risk factor for dislocation following arthroplasty for acute hip fractures. We also analysed medical and surgical adverse events (AE), readmission, reoperation, revision, and mortality as secondary outcomes.MethodsA longitudinal cohort study using prospectively collected and aggregated data from the Swedish Hip Arthroplasty Register (SHAR) and the Swedish national patient register. All patients presenting with an acute hip fracture and treated with an arthroplasty in the period from 2005 to 2014 from the SHAR were identified. Patients in receipt of bilateral arthroplasties were excluded. Patients with a relevant pre-existing and diagnosed neurological disorder, as defined by ICD-10 codes, were identified (n = 9,702). All other cases (n = 29,411) were available for logistic regression propensity score matching. Patients were 1:1 matched on age, sex, Charlson comorbidity index, total versus hemiarthroplasty, head size, surgical approach, and year of surgery. Dislocations, adverse events, readmission, reoperation, revision, and mortality were studied using Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression.ResultsThe risk of dislocations was higher for patients with neurological disorder (HR=1.19, CI 1.03- 1.39, p<0.05). Neurological disorder was associated with increased risk of encountering an adverse event (p<0.001 at 90-days); these patients were at higher risk of dying (HR=1.51, CI 1.47–1.56, p<0.001) however they were less likely to be readmitted (HR=0.73, CI 0.70- 0.76, p<0.001). No excess risks of reoperation (HR=1.02, CI 0.90–1.17; p = 0.73) or revision (HR=1.00, CI 0.86–1.17; p = 0.99) were identified in the study group.DiscussionCompared to matched controls, individuals with a preoperatively identified neurological diagnosis had higher rates of mortality, dislocations, and adverse events, but this cohort was not at increased risk of reoperation or revision. This study highlights an area of focus for future research to improve the long-term outcomes in patients with neurological disease undergoing arthroplasty for an acute hip fracture.     

Intramedullary nailing confers an increased risk of medial migration compared to dynamic hip screw fixation in unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures

IntroductionMedial migration of the femoral neck element (FNE) superomedially against gravity with respect to the intramedullary component of the cephalomedullary nail is a complication increasingly recognized to cause femoral head cut-out in intramedullary nailing of pertrochanteric hip fractures. Although cut-outs are common to both intra- and extramedullary fixation, especially in unstable pertrochanteric hip fractures, FNE medial migration in sliding hip screws continues to remain sparse despite increased awareness of the phenomenon. This study aims to investigate whether intramedullary nailing is biomechanically predisposed to FNE medial migration compared to extramedullary fixation with sliding hip screws to account for the discrepancy in reported FNE medial migration rates.Materials and methodsTwelve fourth-generation synthetic femurs (Sawbones) with unstable intertrochanteric fractures were divided into 2 groups (n=6 per group). Fracture fixation was performed using the Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation (PFNA, Synthes) (n=6) in the first group, and the Dynamic Hip Screw (DHS, Synthes) (n=6) in the second group. Both groups were subjected to bidirectional cyclic loading (600N compression loading, 120N tensile loading) at 2 Hz for 5000 cycles. The medial migration distance (MMD) was recorded at the end of the testing cycles.ResultsThe mean MMD in the PFNA group was 4.56mm (SD 0.69mm) with consistent reproduction of medial migration across all constructs tested. This was significantly more compared to the MMD of 1.17mm (SD 0.69mm) in the DHS group (p<0.001).ConclusionIntramedullary nailing of unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures is inherently predisposed to FNE medial migration making it more susceptible to consequent cut-out compared to fixation with the DHS.     

Patients undergoing hip hemiarthroplasty who require early return to theatre have early increased mortality and worse functional outcomes at short term follow-up

BackgroundRe-operation following hip hemiarthroplasty is potentially devastating due to a frail, co-morbid surgical cohort. We aimed to assess the outcomes of patients who required early return to theatre (RTT) within 30 days of index operation in a high-volume hip fracture unit.MethodsA retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database was undertaken. All hip hemiarthroplasties performed between 1st January 2010 and 31st December 2019 was included. Demographic details, complications including reason for return to theatre, length of stay, discharge destination, functional outcome and mortality were collected and reviewed.Results4340 hip hemiarthroplasty procedures were performed, of which 64 patients (1.47%) required early RTT within 30 days of index procedure and 4276 patients did not require early-RTT. The most common reasons for RTT were infection (n = 47) and dislocation (n = 15). There were no cases of peri‑prosthetic fracture requiring RTT within 30 days. Patients requiring early RTT had a significantly increased rate of mortality within 120 days; 32.8% (21 of the 64 patients) versus 13.6% (580 out of the 4276) not requiring early RTT (p < 0.001). The median length of acute inpatient admission for patients who required early RTT was significantly longer at 31 days (range 6–185 days) compared to 10 days (range 3–171 days, p < 0.001) for those without early RTT. Early RTT was associated with a poorer functional mobility outcome at 120 days post-operatively, with a significantly greater reduction in Barthel score compared to the non-RTT cohort (p < 0.05).ConclusionPatients requiring early RTT following hip hemiarthroplasty had a significantly increased length of stay, mortality and worse functional outcome compared to patients who did not require early RTT within 30 days.     

Factors associated with failure of fixation of Vancouver B fractures around a cemented polished tapered stem: A 5 to 14 year follow up study

AimsThere is increasing evidence for fixation as opposed to revision for Vancouver B fractures around polished taper slip stems, however it is remains unclear whether fixation is associated with stem loosening in the longer term. This study aims to assess survival of plate-fixation of Vancouver-B-fractures around a polished-taper- slip cemented stem and identify factors associated with failure.MethodsRetrospective cohort study assessed 129 consecutive unilateral Vancouver-B-fractures around cemented Exeter stems at a minimum of 5 years following open-reduction-internal-fixation (ORIF) with unilateral non-locked unilateral plating+/-cerclage cables. The primary outcome measure was reoperation for any reason. Kaplan Meier survival analysis was performed.ResultsFractures (B1 n = 31 (24%); B2 n = 91 (71%); and B3 n = 7 (5%)) occurred at median of 6 years (IQR 1.2–9.2) after primary surgery. Mean patient age was 78.2 (SD10.56, range 46–96) and 54 (42.9%) were female. Mean follow up was 8.7 years (SD 2.48, 5.7 to 14.4). Symptomatic femoral stem loosening requiring revision occurred in two B2 fractures of metaphyseal split and short spiral patterns. The most common mode of failure was non-union (n = 7, 5%). Both fixation failure (n = 6/31 Vs n = 3/91 vs n = 0/7, p = 0.008) and reoperation (n = 8/31 vs n = 6/91 vs n = 0/7, p = 0.008) were significantly higher following fixation of B1 fractures compared to B2 and B3 fractures. Overall 5year survival free from reoperation was 88.8% (82.0–94.7 95%CI). B1 fracture types were associated with an increase risk of failure (endpoints fixation failure p = 0.010; and reoperation p = 0.016). Transverse fractures (B1) were associated with a relative risk of reoperation of 4.22 (1.63–10.9 95% CI, p = 0.008).ConclusionFixation of Vancouver-B fractures around cemented Exeter stems, when the bone-cement interface is intact and the fracture is anatomically reducible, had an excellent 5-year survival. Only 2 (1.6%) cases of late femoral stem loosening occurred, however, B1 type transverse fractures were associated with a higher rate of reoperation.     

The direct anterior approach is safe and shortens hospital length of stay following hemiarthroplasty for neck of femur fracture

ObjectiveTo investigate the safety of using the anterior approach (AA), compared to the lateral approach (LA), in hemiarthroplasty for the treatment of displaced neck of femur fractures.DesignRetrospective case-control match cohort study.SettingLevel 1 trauma center.PatientsRetrospective review of prospectively collected data for 39 consecutive intracapsular hip fractures treated with hemiarthroplasty using an AA between 2017 and 2021. Patients operated with the AA were matched in 1:2 ratio with patients that had hemiarthroplasty via a LA.Main Outcome MeasuresDischarge destination, 90-day emergency room (ER) visit or readmission rate, inpatient and 90-day mortality rate, inpatient medical complications, 90-day mechanical complications, 90-day reoperation, and length of hospital stay (LOS).ResultsDischarge destination (p = 0.695), 90-day ER visit or readmission rate (p = 0.315), inpatient (p = 0.719) and 90-day mortality rate (p = 0.815), medical complications (p = 0.524), mechanical complications (p = 0.150) were similar between cohorts. Five patients, all in the LA-group, required re-operations within 90-days (p = 0.106). Patients in AA-group had shorter LOS (9.3 days, 95% CI [7.6–11.1] vs. 14.7 days [95% CI 12.2–17.3], p = 0.002).ConclusionsThe AA can be safely introduced for the treatment of hip fractures. Similar short-term outcomes relative to the LA were identified. The shorter LOS may reflect the improved early functional recovery offered from the muscle-sparing AA technique. Future, level-1 data should include early- and longer term functional outcome along with cost-effectiveness.     

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

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

Timing of surgery for internal fixation of intracapsular hip fractures and complications at 1 year; a 32 year clinical study of 2,366 patients at a single center

BackgroundTiming of hip fracture surgery for the internal fixation of an intracapsular fracture remains controversial and few studies to date have been able to determine the optimum time to surgery in minimizing osteonecrosis and non-union with intracapsular fractures after fixation.MethodsUsing a local hip fracture database managed by the senior author over a 32 year period, those who underwent osteosynthesis following intracapsular fractures were assessed for risk of development of non-union and osteonecrosis. Multivariate regression analysis was performed focusing on factors that were predictive of complications. Patient demographics, time from injury to surgery, fixation method, fracture pattern and complications at one year were reported. The primary outcome was whether delay to surgery contributed to risk of complications, defined as non-union or osteonecrosis. Secondary outcomes assessed the contribution of other factors to these complications.Results2,366 patients were identified with an average age of 74.7 years and 66.5% were female. 1189 (50.3%) of fractures were displaced. 481 (20.3%) had a complication at one year following fixation. 78 (3.3%) were fixed by DHS, 6 (0.3%) by cephalomedullary nail, (1257) 53.1% by cannulated screws and 1025 (43.3%) by Targon® screw. Multivariate regression revealed no significant correlation between delay to surgery and complication rates (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.99, 1.01, p = 0.55). Significant variables include female sex (OR 2.03, 95% CI 1.58, 2.62, p<0.0001), fracture displacement (OR 4.8, 95% CI 3.79, 6.14, p<0.0001), independent mobility (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.47, 0.87, p = 0.004) and use of Targon® screws compared to parallel screws (OR 0.61, 95% CI 0.48, 0.76, p<0.0001).ConclusionsOur study demonstrates no relationship between timing of surgery for fixation of intracapsular fracture and complication rates. Female sex and fracture displacement increased risk of complications whereas independent mobility and use of Targon® screw device in comparison to parallel screws were protective against non-union but not avascular necrosis.     

Fixed angle device comparison in young femoral neck fractures: Dynamic hip screw vs dynamic helical hip system

IntroductionFemoral neck fractures in the young patient present a unique challenge. Most surgeons managing these injuries prefer a fixed angle implant, however these devices are fraught with problems. A dynamic hip screw (DHS) is one such fixed angle device that risks malreduction through rotational torque during screw insertion. To avoid this risk some surgeons utilize a dynamic helical hip system (DHHS), however little is known about the complication profile of this device. We hypothesized that the complication rate between these two devices would be similar.Patients and MethodsAll patients presenting to a single tertiary referral center with a femoral neck fracture were identified from a prospectively collected trauma database over an 11-year period. Patients were included if they were less than 60 years of age, treated with a DHS or DHHS, and had at least 6 months of follow-up. Demographic data, injury characteristics, and post-operative complications were obtained through chart review. Standard statistical comparisons were made between groups. A total of 77 patients met inclusion criteria.ResultsAverage age of patients was 38 years (range: 18–59) and 56 (73%) were male. The DHS was used in 37 (48%) patients and the DHHS was used in 40 (52%) patients. Demographic data including average age, gender, body mass index, and smoking status did not differ between the groups. There were 29 (39%) total complications of interest (femoral neck shortening >5 mm, non-union requiring osteotomy, conversion to THA, and osteonecrosis. There were 19 (51%) complications in the DHS group and 10 (25%) in the DHHS group (p = 0.01, risk difference 25%, 95% CI 7–43). Comparisons of the individual complications about the DHS and DHHS cohort did not reach statistical significance for non-union (8% vs 3%) or THA (16% vs 13%) (p = 0.33, p = 0.64, respectively) but a difference was detected in the rate of shortening (27% vs 10%; p = 0.05).ConclusionThis study demonstrates a high risk of complication when managing young femoral neck fractures in line with prior literature. The major complication rate of non-union requiring osteotomy or fixation failure resulting in THA was no different between the two groups, but the rate of shortening was greater the DHS group. This data suggests the DHHS may be a suitable device to manage the young femoral neck fracture and without increased risk of complication.     

The Influence of Dorr Type and Femoral Fixation on Outcomes Following Total Hip Arthroplasty for Acute Femoral Neck Fractures: A Multicenter Study

BackgroundThe American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons guidelines report moderate evidence for cementing femoral stems for hip fractures, mainly derived from hemiarthroplasty literature. This is the first large, nonregistry study examining the influence of femoral fixation, implant type, patient characteristics, and radiographic factors on outcomes after total hip arthroplasty (THA) for acute femoral neck fractures.MethodsA multicenter retrospective study was performed of 709 THA cases (199 cemented, 510 cementless) for femoral neck fractures from 2006 to 2020 at three large academic institutions. Demographics, perioperative characteristics, and radiographs were reviewed. Kaplan-Meier survivorship curves were generated for multiple outcomes. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed with P ≤ .05 denoting significance.ResultsCementless stems had a higher all-cause aseptic femoral revision rate (5.1 versus 0.5%, P = .002) and periprosthetic femoral fracture rate (4.3 versus 0%, P = .001). Each successive Dorr type had a higher fracture rate with cementless implants: 2.3%, 3.7%, and 15.9% in Dorr A, B, and C, respectively (P < .001). Logistic regression analyses confirmed that cementless stems (P = .02) and Dorr C bone (P = .001) are associated with periprosthetic fractures; collared implants and prophylactic cables did not protect against fractures. There was no difference in rates of dislocation, septic revision, or mortality between groups.ConclusionCementless stems during THA for femoral neck fractures have a higher aseptic femoral revision rate, specifically for periprosthetic fractures. Dorr C bone was particularly prone with an alarmingly high fracture rate. All fractures occurred in cementless cases, suggesting that cemented stems may minimize this complication.Level of EvidenceIII.     

Factors affecting transfusion requirement after hip fracture: Can we reduce the need for blood?

Background

Hip fractures are common injuries that result in blood loss and frequently require the transfusion of blood products. We sought to identify risk factors leading to increased blood transfusion in patients presenting with hip fractures, especially those factors that are modifiable.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the cases of all patients who had fixation of their hip fractures between October 2005 and February 2010. The need for transfusion was correlated with potential risk factors, including age, sex, preoperative hemoglobin, fracture type, fixation method and more.

Results

A total of 835 patients had fixation of their hip fractures during the study period; 631 met the inclusion criteria and 249 of them (39.5%) were transfused. We found an association between need for blood transfusion and female sex (p = 0.018), lower preoperative hemoglobin (p < 0.001), fracture type (p < 0.001) and fixation method (p < 0.001). Compared with femoral neck fractures, there was a 2.37 times greater risk of blood transfusion in patients with intertrochanteric fractures (p < 0.001) and a 4.03 times greater risk in those with subtrochanteric fractures (p < 0.001). Dynamic hip screw (DHS) fixation decreased the risk of transfusion by about half compared with intramedullary nail or hemiarthroplasty. We found no association with age, delay to operation (p = 0.17) or duration of surgery (p = 0.30).

Conclusion

The only modifiable risk factor identified was fixation method. When considering blood transfusion requirements in isolation, we suggest a potential benefit in using a DHS for intertrochanteric and femoral neck fractures amenable to DHS fixation.     

Intraoperative lateral wall fractures during Dynamic Hip Screw fixation for intertrochanteric fractures-Incidence,causative factors and clinical outcome

IntroductionThe intact lateral wall plays a key role in stabilization of trochanteric fracture. Hence extreme precaution should be taken to prevent lateral wall damage during DHS fixation. Present study is aimed at evaluating the determinants of lateral wall fracture and its effect on outcome in intertrochanteric fracture femur treated with DHS.Material and methodsThis is a prospective study involving intertrochanteric fractures treated with DHS fixation from July 2013 to June 2014. Out of 135 patients 49(36.3%) had stable fractures and 86(63.7%) unstable fractures. Cortical thickness index (CTI) was measured to evaluate osteoporosis. Lateral wall thickness in anteroposterior radiograph was also measured.All patients underwent 135 ° DHS fixation.Postoperative x-rays are assessed for implant position, intactness of the lateral wall, tip apex distance (TAD) and medialization. Functional outcome was measured at the end of fracture union by modified Harris hip score and Parkers mobility score. Clinical information including age, gender, fracture classification, TAD, lateral wall thickness and functional outcome of the patients were subjected to statistical analysis.Results34 (19.5%) patients had lateral wall fractures. Medialization was found in 22 out of these 34 (64.7%) patients. The mean preoperative lateral wall thickness of these patients is 19.2 mm, compared with 26.8 mm in patients with intact lateral wall (p < 0.001). The mean values of CTI and TAD are comparable in both the groups. In patients with intact lateral wall, mean Harris hip score is 73.1 compared to 65.5 in lateral wall fracture group (p < 0.001). Preinjury mobility status was achieved in 70.2% of intact lateral wall patients, whereas only 32.3% (11) achieved that in lateral wall fracture group. Threshold for lateral wall thickness that could predict lateral wall fracture was found to be 21 mm with 95% sensitivity and 88.2% specificity.ConclusionLateral wall fractures during DHS fixation are not uncommon and osteoporosis has no bearing on its occurrence. It alone can lead to poor radiological and functional outcome independent of TAD. Lateral wall thickness is a reliable predictor of intra operative lateral wall fracture during DHS fixation and nailing is a good option especially when lateral wall thickness is <21 mm.     

Open versus closed pilon fractures: Comparison of management,outcomes, and complications

BackgroundDespite the low incidence of pilon fractures amongst lower limb injuries, their high impact nature presents difficulties in surgical management and recovery. The high complication rate and long recovery times presents a challenge for surgeons and patients. Current literature is varied, with no universal treatment algorithm. We aim to highlight differences in outcomes and complications between open and closed pilon fractures, and between patients treated by open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) or fine wire fixator (FWF) for open and closed fracture subgroups.MethodsThis retrospective study was conducted at a major trauma centre including 135 patients over a 6-year period. Primary outcome was AOFAS score at 3, 6, and 12-months post-injury. Secondary outcomes included time to partial weight-bear (PWB) and full weight-bear (FWB), bone union time, and complications during the follow-up time. AO/OTA classification was used (43A: n = 23, 43B: n = 30, 43C: n = 82). Interobserver agreement was high for bone union time (kappa=0.882) and AO/OTA class (kappa=0.807).ResultsHigher AOFAS scores were seen in ORIF groups of both open and closed fractures, compared to FWF groups. The difference was not statistically significant apart from 12-month AOFAS score of 43C open fractures (p = 0.003) and in 43B closed fractures 3 and 6 months post-injury (p<0.001 and p<0.001, respectively). The majority of ORIF subgroups, open and closed fractures, also had shorter time to PWB, FWB, time to union, and follow-up. Statistically significant differences were seen in the following cases: ORIF-treated 43B closed fracture subgroup had shorter time to PWB and FWB (p<0.001 and p = 0.017, respectively), ORIF-treated 43C closed fractures had shorter time to union (p = 0.005). Common complications for open fractures were non-union (24%), post-traumatic arthritis (16%); for closed fractures they were post-traumatic arthritis (24%), superficial infection (21%). All occurred more frequently in FWF-treated patients.ConclusionMost ORIF-treated subgroups in either open or closed pilon fractures showed better primary and secondary outcomes than FWF-treated subgroups, yet few were statistically significant. Overall, our use of a two-staged approach involving temporary external fixation, followed with ORIF or FWF achieved low complication rates and good functional recovery.     

The management of segmental femur fractures: the radiographic 'cover-up' test to guide decision making

BackgroundSegmental femur fractures often pose management challenges regarding the optimal fixation choice and sequence of surgical events.MethodsRetrospective review of clinical records and radiographic data of adult patients with segmental femur fractures treated by a conceptual radiographic cover-up test to determine the ideal fixation method between January 2019 and December 2020.ResultsForty patients with 84 individual fractures underwent fracture fixation. The most consistent fracture combinations were intertrochanter-diaphysis (AO31A-AO32) fractures (25%, n = 10) and femur neck-diaphysis (AO31B-AO32) fractures (20%, n = 8). Compared to evidence-based fracture management, the gold standard treatment was used for the fixation of 78 fractures (93%). One patient required revision for fixation failure of a diaphyseal fracture, and two fractures, both open diaphysis injuries, developed fracture-related infections.ConclusionAnatomical alignment and high union rates are possible for segmental femur fractures treated by evidence-based fracture fixation principles. A conceptual radiographic cover-up test assists in matching the best possible implant for each fracture.     

Predictors of preoperative deep vein thrombosis in hip fractures: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundThe predictors of preoperative deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients with hip fractures remain unclear. Therefore, this study describes the results of a systematic review and meta-analysis of relevant peer-reviewed literature on this topic.MethodsWe searched PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and MEDLINE for articles published in English on the predictors of preoperative DVT in hip fractures. We calculated pooled odds ratios (OR) or mean differences (MD) for the DVT groups as compared with the non-DVT groups for each variable, including gender, age, body mass index, injury side, current smoking status, time from injury to admission, time from injury to surgery, fracture type, hypertension, arrhythmia, coronary artery disease, diabetes, stroke, kidney disease, liver disease, lung disease, malignancy, rheumatoid arthritis, D-dimer, fibrinogen, activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time, thrombin time, hemoglobin, albumin, total cholesterol, and triglycerides.ResultsWe included 9 studies involving 3,123 Asian patients with hip fractures (DVT, n = 570; non-DVT, n = 2,553). Being female (OR = 1.27; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.04–1.56; p = 0.02), being of advanced age (MD = 1.63; 95% CI 0.80–2.47; p = 0.0001), having a longer time from injury to admission (MD = 0.80; 95% CI 0.48–1.12; p < 0.00001), having a longer time from injury to surgery (MD = 2.20; 95% CI 1.53–2.88; p < 0.00001), and the presence of kidney disease (OR = 1.76; 95% CI 1.04–2.96; p = 0.03) were correlated with a high risk of DVT. However, we found no significant differences between the two groups in the other predictors.ConclusionsEvidence indicates that being female, being of advanced age, having a longer time from injury to admission, having a longer time from injury to surgery, and having kidney disease are significantly correlated with a high risk of preoperative DVT in Asian patients with hip fracture. Further investigations with patients of other ethnicities are required.     

Markers of muscle damage for comparing soft tissue injury following proximal femur nail and dynamic hip screw operations for intertrochanteric hip fractures

BackgroundFemoral neck fractures are the most common fractures among the elderly. The two operative approaches used for the treatment of AO/OTA 31 intertrochanteric fractures include an intramedullary device (proximal femoral nail [PFN]) or an extramedullary device (sliding/dynamic hip screw [DHS]). The aim of this study was to provide objective evidence of local soft tissue injury by measuring serum creatine phosphokinase (CPK), a biochemical marker, to quantify muscle damage and inflammation in patients treated by the two approaches.Patients and methodsMedical data of 359 patients operated for intertrochanteric fractures with PFN (156 patients) or DHS (193 patients) were retrospectively reviewed. The fractures were classified according to AO/OTA classification. Perioperative and radiographic data were collected to ensure cohorts with similar characteristics. Serum CPK and serum hemoglobin (Hb) levels were measured preoperatively and on postoperative day 1 (POD1). Independent predictors of elevation in the levels of markers of inflammation and muscle damage were determined by a multivariate linear regression model.ResultsThe demographics were similar for the two groups. Our study population included 64.2% female patients. Preoperative serum CPK levels were available for 89 patients and POD1 serum CPK levels were available for all patients. One-hundred and thirteen of the 193 DHS patients (58%) and 14 of the 156 PFN patients (9%) had a stable fracture (AO/OTA 31A1, p < 0.0001). The DHS patients had a greater increase between pre- and postoperative CPK levels compared to the PFN patients (DHS, δ = 368 versus PFN, δ = 65, p < 0.0002). The PFN patients had a greater decrease in both the pre- and postoperative Hb levels compared to the DHS patients (Diff_Hb 0.27 g/dl). The older the patient, the greater decreases in Diff_CPK compared to the younger ones.ConclusionsImplementation of POD1 CPK blood levels as a biochemical marker of soft tissue injury provided quantitative evidence that patients whose intertrochanteric fracture was stabilized by a DHS suffered greater soft tissue injury compared to patients whose fracture was stabilized by a PFN.     

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.     

Is there a higher risk of dislocation of hip hemiarthroplasty in patients with neuromuscular conditions? A clinical study of 3827 patients

Aim of the studyThe aim of this study is to identify if there is any association between neuromuscular disorders and prosthetic dislocation in patients treated with hip hemiarthroplasty for neck of femur fractures.Patients and methodsOur study is a retrospective analysis of data collected over 34 years for patients with intracapsular neck of femur fracture who underwent hip hemiarthroplasty. Pathological fractures and patients treated with other treatment modalities were excluded. The study population is composed of four groups; patients with no neuromuscular disorders, patients with Parkinson's disease, patients with previous stroke, and patients with mental impairment.ResultsA total of 3827 patients were treated with hip hemiarthroplasty. For the 3371 patients with no neuromuscular condition (Group I) the dislocation rate was 1.1%. 219 patients had Parkinsonism (Group II) with a dislocation rate of 3.2%, 104 patients had a previous stroke with weakness on the fracture side with a dislocation rate of 1.0% (Group III), and 984 patients had severe mental impairment with a dislocation rate of 1.8% (Group IV). The increased dislocation rate for those with Parkinson's disease was statistically significant (p = 0.02) while none of the other neuromuscular conditions were statistically significant.ConclusionOur study demonstrates an increased risk of dislocation after hemiarthroplasty for patients with Parkinson's disease in comparison to other groups. No increase was apparent for those with mental impairment or weakness from a previous stroke.     

Unipolar versus bipolar hemiarthroplasty for hip fractures in patients aged 90 years or older: A bi-centre study comparing 209 patients

BackgroundThis study aimed to evaluate the outcome of unipolar and bipolar hemiarthroplasty to treat hip fractures in patients aged ≥ 90 years.MethodsWe conducted this study from 2007 to 2018 based on the electronic databases of two hospitals. Patients aged ≥ 90 years, treated for Arbeitsgemeinschaft Osteosynthese 31-B3 type fractures, were included. One hospital conducted the treatment only with unipolar prostheses; the other hospital used only bipolar prostheses. We assessed 23 peri‑ and postoperative variables including any revision, dislocation, and survival. The follow-up was completed after a minimum of 2 years postoperatively. At follow-up, the functional status was evaluated via telephone using the Parker score for every living patient.ResultsOne-hundred unipolar prostheses, and 109 bipolar prostheses were examined. The patients‘ mean age was 92.9 years (range 90–102). Dementia was differently distributed between the groups (p < 0.001), with a lower survival risk (Odds Ratio 1.908; Confidence Interval 1.392 - 2.615; log rank <0.001). Based on this result, unipolar demonstrated significantly higher mortality rates compared with bipolar prostheses (log rank < 0.001). No effects were found for dislocation, revision and overall complication rate. At follow-up, 37 patients were available for functional status. The mean Parker score was 3.7 (range 0–9), with no effect.ConclusionsIntracapsular hip fractures in patients aged ≥ 90 years can be treated with unipolar or bipolar hemiarthroplasty. The type of prostheses did not influence dislocation, revision, general complication, or functional status. The groups were significantly affected by dementia, a risk factor for shorter survival.     

Comparison of Dislocation and Outcome Between Piriformis-Sparing and Conventional Posterior Approach After Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty for Femoral Neck Fracture in Patients Over 60 Years

BackgroundHemiarthroplasty is a treatment option for femoral neck fractures in patients aged more than 60 years and postoperative dislocation after a posterior approach is not uncommon. The piriformis tendon is one of the structures providing posterior hip stability. However, evidence of piriformis-sparing approach in hemiarthroplasty is unclear regarding a reduced dislocation rate.MethodsBetween January 2017 and December 2019, 321 patients underwent a posterior approach in consecutive cohorts for a hemiarthroplasty for femoral neck fractures with the minimum 24 months follow-up time (24-60 months). There were two cohorts: (1) 129 underwent the conventional posterior (CP) approach and (2) 192 underwent the piriformis-sparing (PS) approach. The differences in dislocation rate, postoperative Harris Hip Society at 1 and 2 years and other surgical complications were compared in both groups.ResultsThere were 6 dislocations of 129 (4.7%) underwent the CP approach and 0 dislocation from 192 underwent the PS approach that had posterior hip dislocations (P = .004). In addition, the CP group had a significantly higher mortality rate (14.7% versus 7.3%, P = .031) and lower functional outcomes as assessed by mean Harris Hip Scores at 1 year (73 versus 78, P = .005) and 2 years postoperatively (73 versus 80, P < .001) relative to the PS group.ConclusionPS hemiarthroplasty was associated with a lower dislocation and mortality rate. Moreover, this approach gained a superior early to the mid-term functional outcome than the conventional posterior approach in elderly femoral neck fractures.Level of EvidenceII, prospective cohort study.     

The effect of COVID-19 pandemic on the care of fragility hip fracture patients in the United Kingdom. A case control study in a major trauma centre

IntroductionCoronavirus disease 2019 is a pandemic that forced a transformation in the services provided by the National Health Service in the United Kingdom. Fragility hip fractures account for over 65,000 cases per year in the elderly population. The study aims to assess the impact of the pandemic on fragility hip fractures.MethodsA retrospective data gather was performed to identify fragility hip fractures from the 23rd of March 2020 to the 13th of May 2020, and from the 23rd of March 2019 to the 13th of May 19. Two groups were formed and compared over their 30 day follow up.ResultsThe control group comprised of 97 patients, with a mean age of 82.1 years old (62–102 years) and M:F ratio of 38:59. The case group comprised of 102 patients, with a mean age of 82.3 years old (60–100 years) and a M:F ratio of 16:86. Significant differences between groups were identified for gender (p < 0.001), time to theatre (p = 0.002), length of stay (p < 0.001) and COVID-19 status (p = 0.001). In the Case group, association with mortality was found for male gender (p = 0.041), right side (p = 0.031) and COVID-19 positive test results (p = 0.011).ConclusionEarly surgical intervention is advocated wherever possible, and sufficient optimisation, prior to surgery whenever a COVID-19 positive patient is identified. A safe rehabilitation environment is paramount for recovery in this group of patients. Further studies are required to understand the effect of this pandemic on the fragility hip fractures.Level of evidenceLevel III: Retrospective case–control study.