Mortality rate after total knee arthroplasty or total hip arthroplasty in patients with a history of liver transplant

In this editorial I comment on the article by Ahmed et al published in a recent issue of the World J Orthop 2023;14:784-790.It is well known that patients who have undergone a liver transplant(LT)may need to have a total hip arthroplasty(THA)or total knee arthroplasty(TKA)implanted.Ahmed et al stated that the mortality rate in these patients was similar to the one of the general population.However,there are three articles previously published that found higher mortality in LT patients who experienced THA/TKA than in the general population(individuals without LT).Therefore,in this Editorial I would like to point out that there is controversy in the literature regarding whether LT patients undergoing THA/TKA have higher mortality than the general population.Therefore,future research should attempt to resolve this controversy.

Which approach of total hip arthroplasty is the best efficacy and least complication?

BACKGROUND Total hip arthroplasty is as an effective intervention to relieve pain and improve hip function.Approaches of the hip have been exhaustively explored about pros and cons.The efficacy and the complications of hip approaches remains inconclusive.This study conducted an umbrella review to systematically appraise previous meta-analysis(MAs)including conventional posterior approach(PA),and minimally invasive surgeries as the lateral approach(LA),direct anterior approach(DAA),2-incisions method,mini-lateral approach and the newest technique direct superior approach(DSA)or supercapsular percutaneouslyassisted total hip(SuperPath).AIM To compare the efficacy and complications of hip approaches that have been published in all MAs and randomized controlled trials(RCTs).METHODS MAs were identified from MEDLINE and Scopus from inception until 2023.RCTs were then updated from the latest MA to September 2023.This study included studies which compared hip approaches and reported at least one outcome such as Harris Hip Score(HHS),dislocation,intra-operative fracture,wound compliData were independently selected,extracted and assessed by two reviewers.Network MA and cluster rank and surface under the cumulative ranking curve(SUCRA)were estimated for treatment efficacy and safety.RESULTS Finally,twenty-eight MAs(40 RCTs),and 13 RCTs were retrieved.In total 47 RCTs were included for reanalysis.The results of corrected covered area showed high degree(13.80%).Among 47 RCTs,most of the studies were low risk of bias in part of random process and outcome reporting,while other domains were medium to high risk of bias.DAA significantly provided higher HHS at three months than PA[pooled unstandardized mean difference(USMD):3.49,95%confidence interval(CI):0.98,6.00 with SUCRA:85.9],followed by DSA/SuperPath(USMD:1.57,95%CI:-1.55,4.69 with SUCRA:57.6).All approaches had indifferent dislocation and intraoperative fracture rates.SUCRA comparing early functional outcome and composite complications(dislocation,intra-operative fracture,wound complication,and nerve injury)found DAA was the best approach followed by DSA/SuperPath.CONCLUSION DSA/SuperPath had better earlier functional outcome than PA,but still could not overcome the result of DAA.This technique might be the other preferred option with acceptable complications.

Assessment of the effectiveness of weight-adjusted antibiotic administration,for reduced duration,in surgical prophylaxis of primary hip and knee arthroplasty

BACKGROUND Prophylactic antibiotics have significantly led to a reduction in the risk of postoperative surgical site infections(SSI)in orthopaedic surgery.The aim of using antibiotics for this purpose is to achieve serum and tissue drug levels that exceed,for the duration of the operation,the minimum inhibitory concentration of the likely organisms that are encountered.Prophylactic antibiotics reduce the rate of SSIs in lower limb arthroplasty from between 4%and 8%to between 1%and 3%.Controversy,however,still surrounds the optimal frequency and dosing of antibiotic administration.AIM To evaluate the impact of introduction of a weight-adjusted antibiotic prophylaxis regime,combined with a reduction in the duration of administration of post-operative antibiotics on SSI incidence during the 2 years following primary elective total hip and knee arthroplasty METHODS Following ethical approval,patients undergoing primary total hip arthroplasty(THA)/total knee arthroplasty(TKA)with the old regime(OR)of a preoperative dose[cefazolin 2 g intravenously(IV)],and two subsequent doses(2 h and 8 h),were compared to those after a change to a new regime(NR)of a weight-adjusted preoperative dose(cefazolin 2 g IV for patients<120 kg;cefazolin 3g IV for patients>120 kg)and a post-operative dose at 2 h.The primary outcome in both groups was SSI rates during the 2 years post-operatively.RESULTS A total of n=1273 operations(THA n=534,TKA n=739)were performed in n=1264 patients.There was no statistically significant difference in the rate of deep(OR 0.74%(5/675)vs NR 0.50%(3/598);fishers exact test P=0.72),nor superficial SSIs(OR 2.07%(14/675)vs NR 1.50%(9/598);chi-squared test P=0.44)at 2 years postoperatively.With propensity score weighting and an interrupted time series analysis,there was also no difference in SSI rates between both groups[RR 0.88(95%CI 0.61 to 1.30)P=0.46].CONCLUSION A weight-adjusted regime,with a reduction in number of post-operative doses had no adverse impact on SSI incidence in this population.

Single-center experience with Knee+^(TM) augmented reality navigation system in primary total knee arthroplasty

BACKGROUND Computer-assisted systems obtained an increased interest in orthopaedic surgery over the last years,as they enhance precision compared to conventional hardware.The expansion of computer assistance is evolving with the employment of augmented reality.Yet,the accuracy of augmented reality navigation systems has not been determined.AIM To examine the accuracy of component alignment and restoration of the affected limb’s mechanical axis in primary total knee arthroplasty(TKA),utilizing an augmented reality navigation system and to assess whether such systems are conspicuously fruitful for an accomplished knee surgeon.METHODS From May 2021 to December 2021,30 patients,25 women and five men,under-went a primary unilateral TKA.Revision cases were excluded.A preoperative radiographic procedure was performed to evaluate the limb’s axial alignment.All patients were operated on by the same team,without a tourniquet,utilizing three distinct prostheses with the assistance of the Knee+™augmented reality navigation system in every operation.Postoperatively,the same radiographic exam protocol was executed to evaluate the implants’position,orientation and coronal plane alignment.We recorded measurements in 3 stages regarding femoral varus and flexion,tibial varus and posterior slope.Firstly,the expected values from the Augmented Reality system were documented.Then we calculated the same values after each cut and finally,the same measurements were recorded radiolo-gically after the operations.Concerning statistical analysis,Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient was estimated,while Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test was performed when needed.RESULTS A statistically significant difference was observed regarding mean expected values and radiographic mea-surements for femoral flexion measurements only(Z score=2.67,P value=0.01).Nonetheless,this difference was statistically significantly lower than 1 degree(Z score=-4.21,P value<0.01).In terms of discrepancies in the calculations of expected values and controlled measurements,a statistically significant difference between tibial varus values was detected(Z score=-2.33,P value=0.02),which was also statistically significantly lower than 1 degree(Z score=-4.99,P value<0.01).CONCLUSION The results indicate satisfactory postoperative coronal alignment without outliers across all three different implants utilized.Augmented reality navigation systems can bolster orthopaedic surgeons’accuracy in achieving precise axial alignment.However,further research is required to further evaluate their efficacy and potential.

Meta-analysis of factors influencing anterior knee pain after total knee arthroplasty

BACKGROUND Total knee arthroplasty(TKA)is a mature procedure recommended for correcting knee osteoarthritis deformity,relieving pain,and restoring normal biomechanics.Although TKA is a successful and cost-effective procedure,patient dissatisfaction is as high as 50%.Knee pain after TKA is a significant cause of patient dissatisfaction;the most common location for residual pain is the anterior region.Between 4%and 40%of patients have anterior knee pain(AKP).AIM To investigate the effect of various TKA procedures on postoperative AKP.METHODS We searched PubMed,EMBASE,and Cochrane from January 2000 to September 2022.Randomized controlled trials with one intervention in the experimental group and no corresponding intervention(or other interventions)in the control group were collected.Two researchers independently read the title and abstract of the studies,preliminarily screened the articles,and read the full text in detail according to the selection criteria.Conflicts were resolved by consultation with a third researcher.And relevant data from the included studies were extracted and analyzed using Review Manager 5.4 software.RESULTS There were 25 randomized controlled trials;13 were comparative studies with or without patellar resurfacing.The meta-analysis showed no significant difference between the experimental and control groups(P=0.61).Six studies were comparative studies of circumpatellar denervation vs non-denervation,divided into three subgroups for meta-analysis.The two-subgroup meta-analysis showed no significant difference between the experimental and the control groups(P=0.31,P=0.50).One subgroup meta-analysis showed a significant difference between the experimental and control groups(P=0.001).Two studies compared fixed-bearing TKA and mobile-bearing TKA;the results meta-analysis showed no significant difference between the experimental and control groups(P=0.630).Two studies compared lateral retinacular release vs non-release;the meta-analysis showed a significant difference between the experimental and control groups(P=0.002);two other studies compared other factors.CONCLUSION Patellar resurfacing,mobile-bearing TKA,and fixed-bearing TKA do not reduce the incidence of AKP.Lateral retinacular release can reduce AKP;however,whether circumpatellar denervation can reduce AKP is controversial.

Dislocation of primary total hip arthroplasty:Analysis of risk factors and preventive options

Total hip arthroplasty(THA)is one of the most successful elective operations in orthopedic surgery for improving pain and functional disability in patients with end-stage joint disease.However,dislocation continues to be a troublesome complication after THA,as it is a leading cause of revision and is associated with substantial social,health,and economic costs.It is a relatively rare,usually early occurrence that depends on both the patients’characteristics and the surgical aspects.The most recent and important finding is the special attention to be given preoperatively to spinopelvic mobility,which is closely related to the incidence of dislocation.Consequently,clinical and radiographic assessment of the lumbar spine is mandatory to identify an altered pelvic tilt that could suggest a different positioning of the cup.Lumbar spinal fusion is currently considered a risk factor for dislocation and revision regardless of whether it is performed prior to or after THA.Surgical options for its treatment and prevention include the use of prostheses with large diameter of femoral head size,dual mobility constructs,constrained liners,and modular neck stems.

Effects of ulinastatin combined with dexmedetomidine on cognitive dysfunction and emergence agitation in elderly patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty

BACKGROUND With the continuous growth of the modern elderly population,the risk of fracture increases.Hip fracture is a common type of fracture in older people.Total hip arthroplasty(THA)has significant advantages in relieving chronic pain and promoting the recovery of hip joint function.AIM To investigate the effect of ulinastatin combined with dexmedetomidine(Dex)on the incidences of postoperative cognitive dysfunction(POCD)and emergence agitation in elderly patients who underwent THA.METHODS A total of 397 patients who underwent THA from February 2019 to August 2022.We conducted a three-year retrospective cohort study in Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital.Comprehensive demographic data were obtained from the electronic medical record system.We collected preoperative,intraoperative,and postoperative data.One hundred twenty-nine patients who were administered Dex during the operation were included in the Dex group.One hundred fifty patients who were intravenously injected with ulinastatin 15 min before anesthesia induction were included in the ulinastatin group.One hundred eighteen patients who were administered ulinastatin combined with Dex during the operation were included in the Dex+ulinastatin group.The patients’perioperative conditions,hemodynamic indexes,postoperative Mini-Mental State Examination(MMSE)scores,Ramsay score,incidence of POCD,and serum inflammatory cytokines were evaluated.RESULTS There was a significant difference in the 24 h visual analogue scale score among the three groups,and the score in the Dex+ulinastatin group was the lowest(P<0.05).Compared with the Dex and ulinastatin group,the MMSE scores of the Dex+ulinastatin group were significantly increased at 1 and 7 d after the operation(all P<0.05).Compared with those in the Dex and ulinastatin groups,incidence of POCD,levels of serum inflammatory cytokines in the Dex+ulinastatin group were significantly decreased at 1 and 7 d after the operation(all P<0.05).The observer’s assessment of the alertness/sedation score and Ramsay score of the Dex+ulinastatin group were significantly different from those of the Dex and ulinastatin groups on the first day after the operation(all P<0.05).CONCLUSION Ulinastatin combined with Dex can prevent the occurrence of POCD and emergence agitation in elderly patients undergoing THA.

Mid-term outcomes of a kinematically designed cruciate retaining total knee arthroplasty

BACKGROUND Advances in implant material and design have allowed for improvements in total knee arthroplasty(TKA)outcomes.A cruciate retaining(CR)TKA provides the least constraint of TKA designs by preserving the native posterior cruciate ligament.Limited research exists that has examined clinical outcomes or patient reported outcome measures(PROMs)of a large cohort of patients undergoing a CR TKA utilizing a kinematically designed implant.It was hypothesized that the studied CR Knee System would demonstrate favorable outcomes and a clinically significant improvement in pain and functional scores.AIM To assess both short-term and mid-term clinical outcomes and PROMs of a novel CR TKA design.METHODS A retrospective,multi-surgeon study identified 255 knees undergoing a TKA utilizing a kinematically designed CR Knee System(JOURNEY™II CR;Smith and Nephew,Inc.,Memphis,TN)at an urban,academic medical institution between March 2015 and July 2021 with a minimum of two-years of clinical follow-up with an orthopedic surgeon.Patient demographics,surgical information,clinical outcomes,and PROMs data were collected via query of electronic medical records.The PROMs collected in the present study included the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement(KOOS JR)and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System(PROMIS■)scores.The significance of improvements in mean PROM scores from preoperative scores to scores collected at six months and two-years postoperatively was analyzed using Independent Samples t-tests.RESULTS Of the 255 patients,65.5%were female,43.8%were White,and patients had an average age of 60.6 years.Primary osteoarthritis(96.9%)was the most common primary diagnosis.The mean surgical time was 105.3 minutes and mean length of stay was 2.1 d with most patients discharged home(92.5%).There were 18 emergency department(ED)visits within 90 d of surgery resulting in a 90 d ED visit rate of 7.1%,including a 2.4%orthopedic-related ED visit rate and a 4.7%non-orthopedic-related ED visit rate.There were three(1.2%)hospital readmissions within 90 d postoperatively.With a mean time to latest follow-up of 3.3 years,four patients(1.6%)required revision,two for arthrofibrosis,one for aseptic femoral loosening,and one for peri-prosthetic joint infection.There were significant improvements in KOOS JR,PROMIS Pain Intensity,PROMIS Pain Interference,PROMIS Mobility,and PROMIS Physical Health from preoperative scores to six month and two-year postoperative scores.CONCLUSION The evaluated implant is an effective,novel design offering excellent outcomes and low complication rates.At a mean follow up of 3.3 years,four patients required revisions,three aseptic and one septic,resulting in an overall implant survival rate of 98.4%and an aseptic survival rate of 98.8%.The results of our study demonstrate the utility of this kinematically designed implant in the setting of primary TKA.

Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty on Complex Hips Conditions in a Low-Resource Setting

Introduction: Total hip arthroplasty of complex morphology is a challenge for the orthopaedic surgeon. Careful analysis of the hip’s anatomy helps to unravel the difficulties and anticipate the procedures to be performed and the implants to be planned. The aim was to identify the types of hip that make first-line THR difficult, specify the technical procedures to be used on these sites, and assess the functional results of the series. Material and Methods: This was a retrospective study that concerned patients operated on for total hip arthroplasty between January 2015 and December 2022 at the medical center “La Grâce” in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. Patients with coxarthrosis (on hip dysplasia, acetabular protrusio, acetabular malunion or neurological hip) and those with ankylosis of the hip, osteonecrosis secondary to neglected dislocation of the hip or hemoglobinopathy were included. Results: A total of 31 total hip replacements were performed in 30 patients. The mean age of patients at the surgery time was 36.2 years with extremes of 17 and 61 years. The male-to-female sex ratio was 1. The main indications for THA were the dysplasic hip osteoarthritis (11 cases) and the neglected hip dislocations (7 cases). In situ femoral neck osteotomy before hip dislocation was performed in seven cases. The acetabulum reconstruction techniques varied from the structural iliac bone graft (n = 3) and cancellous bone graft (n = 4) to the Kerboull plate (n = 1). After 45 months of mean follow-up, all hips were evaluated. The mean PMA score increased from 7.1 [4 - 8] before the surgery to 13.2 [13 - 17]. Conclusion: The large spectrum of challenges in complex hip management requires effective preoperative planning. Preoperative planning minimizes complications and ensures a better outcome.

Technical note for intraoperative determination of proper acetabular cup size in primary total hip arthroplasty

BACKGROUND Selecting the optimal size of components is crucial when performing a primary total hip arthroplasty.Implanting the accurate size of the acetabular component can occasionally be exacting,chiefly for surgeons with little experience,whilst the complications of imprecise acetabular sizing or over-reaming can be potentially devastating.AIM To assist clinicians intraoperatively with a simple and repeatable tip in elucidating the ambivalence when determining the proper acetabular component size is not straightforwardly achieved,specifically when surgeons are inexperienced or preoperative templating is unavailable.METHODS This method was employed in 263 operations in our department from June 2021 to December 2022.All operations were performed by the same team of joint reconstruction surgeons,employing a typical posterior hip approach technique.The types of acetabular shells implanted were:The Dynasty®acetabular cup system(MicroPort Orthopedics,Shanghai,China)and the R3®acetabular system(Smith&Nephew,Watford,United Kingdom),which both feature cementless press-fit design.RESULTS The mean value of all cases was calculated and collated with each other.We distinguished as oversized an implanted acetabular shell when its size was>2 mm larger than the size of the acetabular size indicator reamer(ASIR)or when the implanted shell was larger than 4 mm compared to the preoperative planned cup.The median size of the implanted acetabular shell was 52(48–54)mm,while the median size of the preoperatively planned cup was 50(48–56)mm,and the median size of the ASIR was 52(50–54)mm.The correlation coefficient between ASIR size and implanted acetabular component size exhibited a high positive correlation with r=0.719(P<0.001).Contrariwise,intraoperative ASIR measurements precisely predicted the implanted cups’size or differed by only one size(2 mm)in 245 cases.CONCLUSION In our study,we demonstrated that the size of the first acetabular reamer not entering freely in the acetabular rim corroborates the final acetabular component size to implant.This was also corresponding in the majority of the cases with conventional preoperative templating.It can be featured as a valid tool for avoiding the potentially pernicious complications of acetabular cup over-reaming and over-sizing in primary total hip arthroplasty.It is a simple and reproducible technical note useful for confirming the predicted acetabular cup size preoperatively;thus,its application could be considered routinely,even in cases where preoperative templating is unavailable.

Effect of weight-adjusted antimicrobial antibiotic prophylaxis on postoperative dosage and surgical site infection incidence in total joint arthroplasty

Surgical site infections(SSI)following total joint arthroplasty pose a significant concern for both providers and patients across the globe.Currently,administration of antimicrobial antibiotic prophylaxis is used throughout the world to reduce the incidence of SSI.However,the correct dosage and frequency of administration remains debatable.In this editorial,we emphasized the determination of the effect of administration of weight-adjusted antimicrobial antibiotic prophylaxis regime on the incidence of SSI and postoperative dosage reduction compared to the conventionally used regime during total joint arthroplasty.The results demonstrated similar efficacy between both regimes with respect to the incidence of SSI.In addition,weight-adjustment led to reduced postoperative dosage and has the potential to reduce chances of achieving lower therapeutic concentration,drug resistance,drug toxicity,and costs.

Analysis of the causes of primary revision after unicompartmental knee arthroplasty: A case series

BACKGROUND Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty(UKA)has great advantages in the treatment of unicompartmental knee osteoarthritis,but its revision rate is higher than that of total knee arthroplasty.AIM To summarize and analyse the causes of revision after UKA.METHODS This is a retrospective case series study in which the reasons for the first revision after UKA are summarized.We analysed the clinical symptoms,medical histories,laboratory test results,imaging examination results and treatment processes of the patients who underwent revision and summarized the reasons for primary revision after UKA.RESULTS A total of 13 patients,including 3 males and 10 females,underwent revision surgery after UKA.The average age of the included patients was 67.62 years.The prosthesis was used for 3 d to 72 months.The main reasons for revision after UKA were improper suturing of the surgical opening(1 patient),osteophytes(2 patients),intra-articular loose bodies(2 patients),tibial prosthesis loosening(2 patients),rheumatoid arthritis(1 patient),gasket dislocation(3 patients),anterior cruciate ligament injury(1 patient),and medial collateral ligament injury with residual bone cement(1 patient).CONCLUSION The causes of primary revision after UKA were gasket dislocation,osteophytes,intra-articular loose bodies and tibial prosthesis loosening.Avoidance of these factors may greatly reduce the rate of revision after UKA,improve patient satisfaction and reduce medical burden.

Examining the“revisability”benefit of hip resurfacing arthroplasty

BACKGROUND Hip resurfacing arthroplasty(HRA)is an alternative to total hip arthroplasty(THA)that is typically reserved for young active patients because it preserves bone.However,the benefits of HRA only hold true if conversion THA after failed HRA provides acceptable outcomes.AIM To compare patient reported outcomes for conversion THA after HRA failure to primary THA.METHODS A retrospective review of 36 patients(37 hips)that underwent conversion THA for failed HRA between October 2006 and May 2019 by a single surgeon was performed.Patient reported outcomes[modified Harris Hip Score(mHHS),University of California Los Angeles(UCLA)activity score]were obtained via an email-based responder-anonymous survey.Outcomes were compared to normative data of a primary THA cohort with similar demographics.Subgroup analysis was performed comparing outcomes of conversion THA for adverse local tissue reaction(ALTR)vs all other causes for failure.RESULTS The study group had a lower mHHS than the control group(81.7±13.8 vs 90.2±11.6,P<0.01);however,both groups had similar UCLA activity levels(7.5±2.3 vs 7.2±1.6,P=0.51).Patients that underwent conversion for non-ATLR causes had similar mHHS(85.2±11.5 vs 90.2±11.6,P=0.11)and higher UCLA activity levels(8.5±1.8 vs 7.2±1.6,P<0.01)compared to the control group.Patients that underwent conversion for ATLR had worse mHHS(77.1±14.5 vs 90.2±11.6,P<0.01)and UCLA activity levels(6.1±2.3 vs 7.2±1.6,P=0.05)when compared to the control group.CONCLUSION Patient outcomes equivalent to primary THA can be achieved following HRA conversion to THA.However,inferior outcomes were demonstrated for ALTR-related HRA failure.Patient selection and perhaps further studies examining alternative HRA bearing surfaces should be considered.

Addressing metallosis in knee arthroplasty:From diagnostic challenges to innovative treatments

In this editorial,we comment on the article by Toro et al published in the recent issue of World Journal of Orthopedics.This editorial review provides a comprehensive exploration of the landscape surrounding knee arthroplasty metallosis,focusing on key aspects ranging from the mechanisms influencing susceptibility to clinical implications and advanced treatment strategies.We elucidate the complex interplay of implant design,patient-specific variables,and wear-related processes contributing to metallosis.Furthermore,we seek to shed light on diagnostic challenges,the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach,and the imperative for vigilant implant surveillance.Uni-on-uni revision,as a targeted treatment modality,is discussed,highlighting its potential to address metallosis in unicompartmental knee arthroplasty(UKA).There is a need for heightened awareness among clinicians regarding the subtle presentations of metallosis,coupled with the limitations of traditional imaging techniques.Addressing metallosis requires a collaborative,multidisciplinary approach to effectively navigate the complexities associated with this complication.Furthermore,the review emphasizes the evolving paradigm of personalized care,with uni-on-uni revision emerging as a promising surgical solution.In conclusion,the editorial outlines the dynamic nature of knee arthroplasty metallosis and its multifaceted impact on clinical practice.It calls for ongoing collaboration,education,and integration of innovative solutions to enhance diagnostic accuracy,proactive management,and overall patient outcomes in the realm of UKA.

Comparison of clinical outcomes between total hip replacement and total knee replacement

BACKGROUND Total hip replacements(THR)and total knee replacements(TKR)are effective treatments for severe osteoarthritis(OA).Some studies suggest clinical outcomes following THR are superior to TKR,the reason for which remains unknown.This study compares clinical outcomes between THR and TKR.AIM To compare the clinic outcomes of THR anad TKR using a comprehensive range of patient reported outcome measures(PROMs).METHODS A prospective longitudinal observational study of patients with OA undergoing THR and TKR were evaluated using a comprehensive range of generic and joint specific PROMs pre-and post-operatively.RESULTS A total of 131 patients were included in the study which comprised the THR group(68 patients)and the TKR group(63 patients).Both groups demonstrated significant post-operative improvements in all PROM scores(P<0.001).There were no significant differences in post-operative PROM scores between the two groups:Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis Outcome scores(P=0.140),Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index pain(P=0.297)stiffness(P=0.309)and function(P=0.945),Oxford Hip and Knee Score(P=0.076),EuroQol-5D index(P=0.386)and Short-Form 12-item survey physical component score(P=0.106).Subgroup analyses showed no significant difference(P>0.05)between cruciate retaining and posterior stabilised prostheses in the TKR group and no significant difference(P>0.05)between cemented and uncemented fixation in the THR group.Obese patients had poorer outcomes following TKR but did not significantly influence the outcome following THR.CONCLUSION Contrary to some literature,THR and TKR are equally efficacious in alleviating the pain and disability of OA when assessed using a comprehensive range of PROMs.The varying knee prosthesis types and hip fixation techniques did not significantly influence clinical outcome.Obesity had a greater influence on the outcome following TKR than that of THR.

Self-management of osteoarthritis while waiting for total knee arthroplasty during the COVID-19 pandemic among older Malaysians

BACKGROUND The study sought to understand the self-management strategies used by patients during the postponement of their total knee arthroplasty(TKA)procedure,as well as the associations between the length of waiting time,pain,and physical frailty and function.The study focused on individuals aged 50 years and above,as they are known to be more vulnerable to the negative impacts of delayed elective surgery and rehabilitation.This study hypothesizes that delayed TKR due to coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)will bear negative effect in self-management,pain,and physical frailty and function in older adults.AIM To investigate the effects of COVID-19 pandemic on self-management,pain,and physical function in older adults awaiting TKA in Malaysia.METHODS This cross-sectional study has the data of participants,who matched the criteria and scheduled for TKA for the first time,extracted from the TKA registry in the Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology,Hospital Canselor Tuanku Mukhriz.Data on pain status,and self-management,physical frailty,and instrumental activities daily living were also collected.Multiple linear regression analysis with a significant level of 0.05 was used to identify the association between waiting time and pain on physical frailty and functional performance.RESULTS Out of 180 had deferred TKA,50%of them aged 50 years old and above,80%were women with ethnic distribution Malay(66%),Chinese(22%),Indian(10%),and others(2%)respectively.Ninety-two percent of the participants took medication to manage their pain during the waiting time,while 10%used herbs and traditional supplements,and 68%did exercises as part of their osteoarthritis(OA)self-management.Thirty-six participants were found to have physical frailty(strength,assistance with walking,rising from a chair,climbing stairs,and falls questionnaire score>4)which accounted for 72%.Increased pain was associated with physical frailty with odds ratio,odds ratio(95%confidence interval):1.46(1.04-2.05).This association remained significant even after the adjustment according to age and self-management.CONCLUSION While deferring TKA during a pandemic is unavoidable,patient monitoring for OA treatment during the waiting period is important in reducing physical frailty,ensuring the older patients’independence.

Artificial intelligence technology and ultrasound-guided nerve block for analgesia in total knee arthroplasty

BACKGROUND Knee diseases are more common in middle-aged and elderly people,so artificial knee replacement is also more used in middle-aged and elderly people.Although the patient’s pain can be reduced through surgery,often accompanied by moderate pain after surgery and neutralization,which not only increases the psychological burden of the patient,but also greatly reduces the postoperative recovery effect,and may also lead to the occurrence of postoperative adverse events in severe cases.AIM To investigate the analgesic effect of artificial intelligence(AI)and ultrasoundguided nerve block in total knee arthroplasty(TKA).METHODS A total of 92 patients with TKA admitted to our hospital from January 2021 to January 2022 were opted and divided into two groups according to the treatment regimen.The control group received combined spinal-epidural anesthesia.The research group received AI technique combined with ultrasound-guided nerve block anesthesia.The sensory block time,motor block time,visual analogue scale(VAS)at different time points and complications were contrasted between the two groups.RESULTS The time of sensory block onset and sensory block perfection in the research group was shorter than those in the control group,but the results had no significant difference(P>0.05).Duration of sensory block in the research group was significantly longer than those in the control group(P<0.05).The time of motor block onset and motor block perfection in the research group was shorter than those in the control group,but the results had no significant difference(P>0.05).Duration of motor block in the research group was significantly longer than those in the control group.The VAS scales of the research group were significantly lower than that of the control group at different time points(P<0.05).The postoperative hip flexion and abduction range of motion in the research group were significantly better than those in the control group at different time points(P<0.05).The incidence of complications was significantly lower in the research group than in the control group(P=0.049).CONCLUSION In TKA,the combination of AI technology and ultrasound-guided nerve block has a significantly effect,with fewer postoperative complications and significantly analgesic effect,which is worthy of application.

Physiologic postoperative presepsin kinetics following primary cementless total hip arthroplasty:A prospective observational study

BACKGROUND Presepsin is an emerging biomarker in the diagnosis of sepsis.In the field of orthopaedics,it could be useful in diagnosing and managing periprosthetic joint infections.AIM To define the normal postoperative presepsin plasmatic curve,in patients undergoing primary cementless total hip arthroplasty(THA).METHODS Patients undergoing primary cementless THA at our Institute were recruited.Inclusion criteria were:Primary osteoarthritis of the hip;urinary catheter time of permanence<24 h;peripheral venous cannulation time of permanence<24 h;no postoperative homologous blood transfusion administration and hospital stay≤8 d.Exclusion criteria were:The presence of other articular prosthetic replacement or bone fixation devices;chronic inflammatory diseases;chronic kidney diseases;history of recurrent infections or malignant neoplasms;previous surgery in the preceding 12 mo;diabetes mellitus;immunosuppressive drug or corticosteroid assumption.All the patients received the same antibiotic prophylaxis.All the THA were performed by the same surgical and anaesthesia team;total operative time was defined as the time taken from skin incision to completion of skin closure.At enrollment,anthropometric data,smocking status,osteoarthritis stage according to Kellgren and Lawrence,Harris Hip Score,drugs assumption and comorbidities were recorded.All the patients underwent serial blood tests,including complete blood count,presepsin(PS)and C-reactive protein 24 h before arthroplasty and at 24,48,72 and 96 h postoperatively and at 3,6 and 12-mo follow-up.RESULTS A total of 96 patients(51 female;45 male;mean age=65.74±5.58)were recruited.The mean PS values were:137.54 pg/mL at baseline,192.08 pg/mL at 24 h post-op;254.85 pg/mL at 48 h post-op;259 pg/mL at 72 h post-op;248.6 pg/mL at 96-h post-op;140.52 pg/mL at 3-mo follow-up;135.55 pg/mL at 6-mo follow-up and 130.11 pg/mL at 12-mo follow-up.In two patients(2.08%)a soft-tissue infection was observed;in these patients,higher levels(>350 pg/mL)were recorded at 3-mo follow-up.CONCLUSION The dosage of plasmatic PS concentration is highly recommended in patients undergoing THA before surgery to exclude the presence of an unknown infection.The PS plasmatic concentration should be also assessed at 72 h postoperatively,evaluate the maximum postoperative PS value,and at 96 h post-operatively when a decrease of presepsin should be found.The lack of a presepsin decrease at 96 h post-operatively could be a predictive factor of infection.

Protective effect of sevoflurane on lung function of elderly chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty

BACKGROUND Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD)is a common respiratory disorder that affects the elderly population and increases the risk of postoperative pulmonary complications(PPCs)after major surgeries.Sevoflurane is a volatile anesthetic that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and attenuate lung injury in animal models.AIM To evaluate the protective effect of sevoflurane on the lung function of elderly COPD patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty(THA).METHODS In this randomized controlled trial,we randomly assigned 120 elderly patients with COPD,who were scheduled for THA,to receive either sevoflurane(sevoflurane group)or propofol(propofol group)as the maintenance anesthetic.The primary outcome was the incidence of PPCs within seven days after surgery.The secondary outcomes were changes in the lung function parameters,inflammatory markers,oxidative stress markers,and postoperative pain scores.RESULTS The results showed that the incidence of PPCs was significantly lower in the sevoflurane group than in the propofol group(10%vs 25%,P=0.02).Furthermore,the decline in the forced expiratory volume in 1 s,forced vital capacity,and peak expiratory flow was significantly lesser in the sevoflurane group than in the propofol group at 24 h and 48 h after surgery(P<0.05).The interleukin-6,tumor necrosis factor-alpha,malondialdehyde,and 8-hydroxy-2α-deoxyguanosine levels were significantly lower in the sevoflurane group than in the propofol group at 24 h after surgery(P<0.05).The sevoflurane group showed significantly lower postoperative pain scores than the propofol group at 6 h,12 h,and 24 h after surgery(P<0.05).CONCLUSION Sevoflurane protects the lung function of elderly COPD patients undergoing THA under general anesthesia by reducing the incidence of PPCs,attenuating inflammatory and oxidative stress responses,and alleviating postoperative pain.

Is There Any Relationship between Total Hip Arthroplasty and Urinary Incontinent?

Introduction: In my daily practice as a hip surgeon, I have observed some circumstances where urinary incontinence (UI) improves after total hip arthroplasty (THA). We investigated UI symptoms before and after THA at our facility and considered the factors that influence UI. Patients and Method: The subjects were 113 female patients who underwent primary THA in our facility. An anterior lateral approach was used in all cases. Using the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF), we conducted an investigation into the presence of UI before and 2 weeks after THA. An improvement in UI was defined as a decrease of 1 point or more, a worsening is defined as an increase of 1 point or more. Results: The responses from the 113 subjects were analyzed. Of the 113 patients, prior to THA, UI was prevalent among 59 patients and was absent among 54 patients. In the group where UI was prevalent, it improved after THA in 50 patients (85%), remained unchanged in 5 (8%) and worsened in 4 (7%). In the group where UI was absent, 49 patients (91%) remained unchanged and UI appeared in 5 (9%). Compared with the non-prevalence group (62 patients), the prevalence group (50 patients) had a noticeable improvement rate of internal rotation of the surgical hip side (P Conclusion: UI greatly reduces the quality of life (QOL). In this study, there is a possibility that THA improves UI.