Early Postoperative Clinical Outcomes Research Articles

“Tension band wiring first” —an easy, fast and reproducible technique to reduce patellar fractures, a retrospective comparative study with traditional reduction technique

ObjectiveTo evaluate intraoperative and early postoperative clinical outcomes using the “tension band wiring first technique” to reduce C type patellar fractures.MethodsSixty-four patients with C type fractures were enrolled in this study. Thirty-four patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) surgeries using the traditional reduction technique by pointed clamps (TRT group). The other thirty patients received the patellar fracture reduction using the “Tension band wiring first technique” (TBWFT group). All patellar fractures were treated with a cable tension band and a cerclage cable. The duration of intraoperative procedure and X-ray exposure times were recorded. All patients were followed up at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Bone union time was recorded. The articular surface steps of the patellas were measured. After surgery, range of motion (ROM) of the knee, and complications were evaluated, and patellar function was evaluated using the Lysholm knee scores and Böstman scores.ResultsWhen compared to TRT group, the “Tension band wiring first technique” significantly reduced the intraoperative time and X-ray exposure times and tended to reduce the articular surface steps, though without statistical significance. In the two groups, there was no significant difference in bone union time, ROM, complications and patellar function.ConclusionThe utilization of “Tension band wiring first technique” proved to be a straightforward, expeditious, and reproducible technique for reducing patellar fracture in comparison to the conventional reduction technique utilizing pointed clamps. Further studies are required to ensure the generalizability of these findings to additional patient populations at other institutions.

Does Specialty Matter? A Comparison of Early Postoperative Clinical Outcomes Following Lower Extremity Amputations Between Orthopaedic Surgeon and Vascular Surgeon

Category: Other Introduction/Purpose: Lower extremity amputations are performed by several specialties, with orthopaedic surgery (OS) and vascular surgery (VS) being the two most prevalent. Outcomes following lower extremity amputations, including complications, discharge destination, the rates of mortality, reoperation, and readmission, may vary between these specialties. This variation could be attributed to the underlying reasons for amputation (traumatic vs. vascular) and the urgency level of each case. Understanding the distinctions in outcomes of lower extremity amputations between these surgical specialties could enable surgeons to predict patient outcomes and set realistic patient expectations more accurately. To our knowledge, there is no research comparing postoperative outcomes of lower extremity amputations across these specialties. Our study aims to fill this gap by analyzing data from the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP). Methods: This study analyzed data from NSQIP spanning the years 2016 to 2018, focusing on patients who underwent primary lower extremity amputations. The NSQIP database was searched using Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes to identify these patients. The scope of primary amputations included not only below-knee amputations (BKAs) but also above-knee amputations (AKAs) and amputations involving the hindfoot, midfoot, and forefoot. The CPT codes employed for this comprehensive search were 27590, 27591, 27592, 27598, 27880, 27881, 27882, 27888, 27889, 28800, 28805, 28810, 28820, and 28825. The study compared differences in demographics, comorbidities, surgical procedures, and early 30-day postoperative outcomes between the OS and VS. Primary outcomes included mortality, readmission, reoperation, while secondary outcomes focused on complications such as sepsis, infection, wound disruption, DVT/PE, ventilator use greater than 48 hours, perioperative blood transfusion, pneumonia, unplanned reintubation, acute renal failure, urinary tract infection, cardiac arrest, myocardial infarction, and stroke. Results: 16,475 cases were included in this study. 2,556 (15.6%) were conducted by OS while 10,077 (61.1%) by VS. 3,842 (23.3%) were conducted by other specialties, including general surgery and they are not included in our comparison. OS had more emergent cases than elective (16.6% Vs. 13.8%). Regarding the primary outcomes, surgeries by VS showed higher rates of mortality (6.5% Vs. 3.8%), reoperations (9.6% Vs. 7.5%), and readmissions (15.0% Vs. 12.3%). VS had longer length of stay (10.8 days Vs. 8.2 days) and more often tended to have a non-home disposition (81.2% Vs.51.8%). OS showed longer OR time (78.3 minutes Vs. 62.9 minutes). There was no significant difference in the rate of secondary outcomes between two groups, including infection, wound disruption, and DVT/PE. Conclusion: Equivalent outcomes following lower extremity amputations between OS and VS were observed in secondary outcomes, including infections and DVT/PE. However, OS had more emergency cases and longer OR time. VS had significantly higher rates of mortality, reoperation, and readmission in the early 30-day postoperative period, and a greater tendency for non-home dispositions. This indicates that patients requiring amputations under the care of VS may experience more complicated postoperative courses. Further analysis is necessary to better correlate diagnoses with these outcomes, which could enhance the prediction of patient outcomes, including potential complications, and help in setting more accurate realistic patient expectations.

Below-knee amputation with an ultrasonic scalpel: evaluation of early postoperative clinical outcomes.

Despite the development of microscopic reconstructive techniques for lower limb salvage, major limb amputation is still required for critical, unsalvageable lower leg wounds, with steadily increasing estimates of major limb amputations. In this study, the authors highlight a surgical technique for below-knee (BK) amputation using an ultrasonic scalpel, and evaluate its safety and effectiveness compared with the conventional method of using surgical blades. A retrospective chart review was conducted at the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, St. Vincent's Hospital, Republic of Korea, on patients who underwent BK amputation between October 2012 and January 2021. Patients were assigned to two groups: amputation using classical methods, such as surgical blades and electrocautery (group A); and amputation using an ultrasonic scalpel (group B). Numerous perioperative factors, such as operation time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative complications and recovery time were examined. The present study adhered to the STROBE guidelines. A total of 41 patients (16 in group A and 25 in group B) were included in this study. Operation time was significantly shorter in group B (p=0.001) and intraoperative blood loss was lower (p=0.011). Wound healing time did not vary between groups. In this study, the use of an ultrasonic scalpel for lower limb amputation was effective in reducing operation time and blood loss, which may be helpful in improving outcomes for patients with comorbidities.

Early gait analysis after total knee arthroplasty based on artificial intelligence dynamic image recognition

To explore early postoperative gait characteristics and clinical outcomes after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). From February 2023 to July 2023, 26 patients with unilateral knee osteoarthritis (KOA) were treated with TKA, including 4 males and 22 females, aged from 57 to 85 years old with an average of (67.58±6.49) years old;body mass index (BMI) ranged from 18.83 to 38.28 kg·m-2 with an average of (26.43±4.15) kg·m-2;14 patients on the left side, 12 patients on the right side;according to Kellgren-Lawrence(K-L) classification, 6 patients with grade Ⅲ and 20 patients with grade IV;the courses of disease ranged from 1 to 14 years with an average of (5.54±3.29) years. Images and videos of standing up and walking, walking side shot, squatting and supine kneeling were taken with smart phones before operation and 6 weeks after operation. The human posture estimation framework OpenPose were used to analyze stride frequency, step length, step length, step speed, active knee knee bending angle, stride length, double support phase time, as well as maximum hip flexion angle and maximum knee bending angle on squatting position. Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC) arthritis index and Knee Society Score (KSS) were used to evaluate clinical efficacy of knee joint. All patients were followed up for 5 to 7 weeks with an average of (6.00±0.57) weeks. The total score of WOMAC decreased from (64.85±11.54) before operation to (45.81±7.91) at 6 weeks after operation (P<0.001). The total KSS was increased from (101.19±9.58) before operation to (125.50±10.32) at 6 weeks after operation (P<0.001). The gait speed, stride frequency and stride length of the affected side before operation were (0.32±0.10) m·s-1, (96.35±24.18) steps·min-1, (0.72±0.14) m, respectively;and increased to (0.48±0.11) m·s-1, (104.20±22.53) steps·min-1, (0.79±0.10) m at 6 weeks after operation (P<0.05). The lower limb support time and active knee bending angle decreased from (0.31±0.38) s and (125.21±11.64) ° before operation to (0.11±0.04) s and (120.01±13.35) ° at 6 weeks after operation (P<0.05). Eleven patients could able to complete squat before operation, 13 patients could able to complete at 6 weeks after operation, and 9 patients could able to complete both before operation and 6 weeks after operation. In 9 patients, the maximum bending angle of crouching position was increased from 76.29° to 124.11° before operation to 91.35° to 134.12° at 6 weeks after operation, and the maximum bending angle of hip was increased from 103.70° to 147.25° before operation to 118.61° to 149.48° at 6 weeks after operation. Gait analysis technology based on artificial intelligence image recognition is a safe and effective method to quantitatively identify the changes of patients' gait. Knee pain of KOA was relieved and the function was improved, the supporting ability of the affected limb was improved after TKA, and the patient's stride frequency, stride length and stride speed were improved, and the overall movement rhythm of both lower limbs are more coordinated.

Perioperative bleeding control in total hip arthroplasty: hemostatic powder vs. tranexamic acid-a prospective randomized controlled trial.

Perioperative bleeding in total hip arthroplasty (THA) can lead to various problems, so effective management of blood loss is needed. This prospective, single-blind, randomized controlled trial aimed to compare the efficacy of topical administration of SURGICEL® (a hemostatic agent of oxidized regenerated cellulose) powder (SP) and tranexamic acid (TXA) in controlling perioperative bleeding during THA. In total, 114 patients undergoing THA for osteoarthritis were randomized to either group S (THA with SP) or group T (THA with TXA). Data including patient demographics, laboratory data (C-reactive protein [CRP], hemoglobin, and hematocrit), operative time, and intraoperative blood loss were analyzed. Clinical outcomes were assessed using WOMAC, JOA, FJS scores, and visual analog scale (VAS) scores. Primary outcomes were estimated total and postoperative blood loss, while secondary outcomes included hematological test results and various clinical scores. 57 patients were allocated to each group, with 55 in group S and 56 in group T were finally included in the analysis. There was no significant difference (p = 0.141) in estimated total blood loss between group S (788.2 ± 350.1ml) and group T (714.1 ± 318.4ml). Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels and WOMAC, and FJS scores were not significantly different between the two groups at any time point. CRP levels were significantly different on postoperative days 4 and 7, and JOA score was significantly different on preoperative and postoperative period. However, the differences in CRP and JOA score values themselves were relatively small and not clinically different. Topical administration of SP is as effective as TXA in reducing perioperative bleeding in patients undergoing THA. Additionally, no significant difference was observed in early postoperative clinical outcomes between SP and TXA. Therapeutic Level I. The University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) registration number UMIN000047607.

Abstract 18520: Impaired Ubiquitin-Proteasome Function in Right Ventricular Myocardium Correlates to Postoperative Outcomes in Tetralogy of Fallot

Introduction: At the time of initial repair, patients with Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) undergo a sudden shift from a pressure to volume loaded right ventricle (RV). It is difficult to predict how TOF RVs will respond to this hemodynamic transition. Identifying mechanisms and targets may enable interventions to improve outcomes. Hypothesis: RV myocardial gene expression profiles at the time of TOF repair correlate to pre- and early postoperative clinical outcomes. Methods: RNAseq was performed from RV myocardium resected at the time of initial TOF repair (n=44). Gene expression profiling was performed using a weighted gene correlation network analysis (WGCNA) against pre- and post-op clinical variables. Mouse pulmonary artery band (PAB, n=9) stratified by degree of RV dilation was used to correlate pathways. Results: WGCNA identified a gene module that was associated with younger age at repair and worse TOF postop outcomes (prolonged milrinone, decreased right atrial and right ventricular strain) without a concomitant association with preop oxygen saturation. Biological process gene-set enrichment analysis using the 2023 Gene Ontology library revealed enrichment of regulators for ubiquitination, cell cycle/mitosis, DNA repair, microtubule polymerization, and Rho/GTPase. PAB mouse RV demonstrated a RV-dilation severity-dependent increase in bound ubiquitin (R 2 =0.61, p=0.01) and loss of free ubiquitin (R 2 =0.72, p=0.004; Figure). Conclusions: WGCNA reveals a RV myocardial gene expression profile that is associated with preoperative characteristics and early postoperative outcomes, and which is enriched for ubiquitination regulators. The PAB mouse recapitulates a severity-dependent increase in bound ubiquitin and loss of free ubiquitin which is consistent with literature suggesting proteostatic dysfunction and accumulation of misfolded proteins in RVF. Targeting proteostatic disruption prior to TOF repair may improve postoperative outcomes.

No-Touch Saphenous Vein as Y-Composite vs Aortocoronary Graft: Early Outcome Analysis

BackgroundA randomized controlled trial was designed to compare 1-year morphologic changes of the no-touch saphenous vein (SV) as a Y-composite graft (composite group) vs an aortocoronary graft (aorta group) in coronary artery bypass grafting. This study evaluated early clinical and angiographic outcomes as a preliminary analysis. MethodsThe primary end point of the trial was the intima-media thickness measured by intravascular ultrasound at 1-year angiographic follow-up. Patients were screened to enroll 25 patients in each group based on a superiority design. Early postoperative clinical and angiographic outcomes were compared between the 2 groups. ResultsThe numbers of distal anastomoses per SV graft were 2.7 ± 1.1 and 2.6 ± 0.8 in the composite and aorta groups, respectively. There was no operative death, and postoperative complications in the 2 groups did not significantly differ. All patients underwent early postoperative graft angiography at a median of 1 (interquartile range, 1-1) day after operation. Early angiographic patency rates were 98.9% (93/94 anastomoses) and 100% (90/90 anastomoses) in the composite and aorta groups, respectively. There was no distal anastomosis showing competitive flow in the aorta group, whereas 3 anastomoses with competitive flow were found in the composite group. All 3 anastomoses with competitive flow were SV grafts that were anastomosed to the right coronary artery territory with moderate stenosis. ConclusionsEarly clinical outcomes and angiographic graft patency rates were not significantly different with use of no-touch SV as a Y-composite graft or an aortocoronary graft.

Minimally invasive small incision surgical technique for unicompartmental knee arthroplasty.

It is always a challenge for orthopaedic surgeons to minimise surgical incisions while ensuring excellent surgical results. We propose the minimally invasive small incision (MISI) technique and an extramedullary positioning technique in the unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) surgery. This study aimed to clarify the early postoperative clinical outcomes and component alignment between MISI and conventional minimally invasive surgical (MIS) techniques. We prospectively enrolled 60 patients who underwent MISI-UKA and 60 patients who underwent MIS-UKA as controls. Clinical parameters include the time of straight leg raising, postoperative walking time with walker assistance, hospital stay, Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) pain score and Knee Society Score (KSS). The postoperative components and lower extremity alignment were compared between the two groups with radiographic image measurement. The MISI group obtained a smaller incision during knee extension (P < 0.001) but a longer tourniquet usage time than the MIS group. The MISI group lost less blood (P < 0.001). The MISI group achieved straight leg raising and walking with aid earlier after surgery, with a shorter hospital stay than the MIS group (P < 0.001). Range of motion (ROM), NRS and KSS scores revealed no significant difference between the two groups in six months postoperative follow-up (P > 0.05). Radiographic measurement results between the two groups revealed no statistical difference (P > 0.05) CONCLUSION: The MISI-UKA could achieve faster earlier recovery after surgery and shorter hospital stays without compromising the principles of proper prosthesis position and limb alignment compared with the conventional MIS-UKA.

Total knee arthroplasty in the outpatient vs inpatient settings: impact of site of care on early postoperative economic and clinical outcomes

BackgroundThe incidence of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) surgery performed in the outpatient setting has increased as a result of improved perioperative recovery protocols, bundled payments, and challenges brought by the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on health systems. This study evaluates early postoperative clinical and economic outcomes of patients treated in the inpatient vs outpatient setting using the Attune Knee System (AKS).MethodsPatients with an elective, primary TKA implanted with the AKS, from Q4 2015 to Q1 2021, were identified within the Premier Healthcare Database. The index was defined as the admission date for inpatient cases and the service day for outpatient procedures. Inpatient and outpatient cases were matched on patient characteristics. Outcomes included 90-day all-cause readmissions, 90-day knee reoperations, and index- and 90-day costs of care. Generalized linear models were used to evaluate outcomes (Reoperation: binomial distribution; costs: Gamma distribution with log link).ResultsBefore matching, 39,337 inpatient and 9,365 outpatient cases were identified, with greater comorbidities in the inpatient cohort. The outpatient cohort had a lower average Elixhauser Index (EI) compared to the inpatient cohort (1.94 (standard deviation (SD): 1.46) vs 2.17 (SD: 1.53), p < 0.001), and the rates for each individual comorbidities were also slightly lower in the outpatient compared to the inpatient cohorts. Post-match, 9,060 patients were retained in each cohort [mean age: ~ 67, EI = 1.9 (SD: 1.5), 40% male]. Post-match comorbidity rates were similar between inpatient and outpatient cohorts (outpatient EI: 1.94 (SD: 1.44)–inpatient EI: 1.96 (SD: 1.45), p = 0.3516): in both, 54.1% of patients had an EI between 1 and 2, and 5.1% had an EI ≥ 5. No differences were observed in 3-month reoperation rates (0.6% in outpatient, 0.7% in inpatient cohort). Index and post-index 90-day costs were lower in the outpatient vs inpatient cases [(savings for index-only costs: $2,295 (95% CI: $1,977–$2,614); 90 days post-index knee-related care only: $2,540 (95% CI: $2,205–$2,876); 90 days post-index all-cause care: $2,679 (95% CI: $2,322–$3,036)].ConclusionsCompared to matched inpatient cases, outpatient TKA cases treated with AKS showed similar 90-day outcomes, at lower cost.

Early postoperative recovery comparisons of superior capsule reconstruction to tendon transfers.

The management of massive posterosuperior rotator cuff tears is controversial, with no gold standard. Two recently developed techniques that have shown promising initial results include arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) and tendon transfers (latissimus or lower trapezius). However, there remains a scarcity of studies examining each procedure's early postoperative clinical outcomes individually or in comparison to each other. The purpose of this study is to compare the early postoperative recovery outcomes of tendon transfers (TTs) to SCR. Using the surgical outcomes system global database (Arthrex Inc.), we assessed the postoperative recovery outcomes for all patients who had outcomes recorded at least 6 months after SCR or TT. The time points analyzed included preoperative and postoperative (2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, 2 years). The outcomes analyzed included pain visual analog scale (VAS) score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES) score, VR-12 physical, and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE). Overall, 163 patients underwent SCR and 24 arthroscopically assisted TT. The mean age for SCR and TT was 60 and 56 years, respectively. Postoperative recovery curves demonstrate that both procedures produced improved outcomes at each postoperative time point compared to preoperative. The pain and functional outcomes measures, including VAS, ASES, SANE, and VR-12 physical, were comparable for TT and SCRs, with similar recovery curves between the 2 techniques. Ultimately at 2 years postoperatively, there were no significant differences between the 2 techniques. Analysis of the early outcomes associated with arthroscopic treatment of massive posterosuperior rotator cuff tears demonstrated that the arthroscopically assisted tendon transfers and arthroscopic superior capsular reconstruction had similar pain and functional outcomes throughout the 2-year postoperative recovery period. Overall, the process of recovery appears equivalent between the 2 techniques. Future studies are needed to assess the outcomes of each technique and specific indications in an attempt to delineate an algorithm for the treatment of irreparable rotator cuff tears.

CT-Derived Sarcopenia and Outcomes after Thoracoscopic Pulmonary Resection for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer.

We aimed to evaluate whether computed tomography (CT)-derived preoperative sarcopenia measures were associated with postoperative outcomes and survival after video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) anatomical pulmonary resection in patients with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We retrospectively reviewed all consecutive patients that underwent VATS anatomical pulmonary resection for NSCLC between 2012 and 2019. Skeletal muscle mass was measured at L3 vertebral level on preoperative CT or PET/CT scans to identify sarcopenic patients according to established threshold values. We compared postoperative outcomes and survival of sarcopenic vs. non-sarcopenic patients. A total of 401 patients underwent VATS anatomical pulmonary resection for NSCLC. Sarcopenia was identified in 92 patients (23%). Sarcopenic patients were predominantly males (75% vs. 25%; p < 0.001) and had a lower BMI (21.4 vs. 26.5 kg/m2; p < 0.001). The overall postoperative complication rate was significantly higher (53.2% vs. 39.2%; p = 0.017) in sarcopenic patients and the length of hospital stay was prolonged (8 vs. 6 days; p = 0.032). Two factors were associated with postoperative morbidity in multivariate analysis: BMI and American Society of Anesthesiologists score >2. Median overall survival was comparable between groups (41 vs. 46 months; p = 0.240). CT-derived sarcopenia appeared to have a small impact on early postoperative clinical outcomes, but no effect on overall survival after VATS anatomical lung resection for NSCLC.

Gap balance difference of unicompartmental knee arthroplasty between hanging leg and supine leg position: a prospective cohort study.

Gap balance is critical in Oxford unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (OUKA) surgery; the effect of lower limb positioning on gap balance judgements has not been reported. There are two mean operative positions for OUKA patients, the hanging leg (HL) and the supine leg (SL) position. This study aimed to investigate the gap balance achieved by current UKA surgical techniques by using a force sensor, to compare the differences in gap balance between the two different positions, and to test whether the difference in gap balance leads to different outcomes in terms of component alignment and early post-operative clinical outcomes. This prospective study included 97 knees (76 patients), who underwent OUKA from June 1, 2020, to July 31, 2021, of which 67 knees underwent UKA in the supine leg position and the other 30 in the hanging leg position. When the operator was satisfied with the gap balance, the contact forces between the trial and the spacer block were measured at 90° of knee flexion (flexion gap) and 20° of knee flexion (extension gap) using a pre-developed matrix flexible force sensor. X-rays were reviewed three to five days after surgery. Knee Society Scores (KSS) were obtained at the sixmonth follow-up. Compared to the HL group, the contact force at the flexion gap was higher in the SL group: 55.15N (SD 43.36N) vs. 34.25N (SD 27.56N) (p < 0.05), whereas in the extension gap, there was no significant difference, 90.19 N (SD 43.36N) in the SL group and 86.72N (SD 43.08N) in the HL group (ns.). The contact force was greater in the extension gap than in the flexion gap in both groups (p < 0.01). The gap balance difference in the HL group was 52.46N (SD 31.33N), which was greater than that of the SL group at 35.03N (SD 19.50N) (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in component alignment or lower limb mechanical alignment between the two groups. There was no significant difference in pre-operative and post-operative KSS between the two groups, while post-operative KSS was significantly higher in both groups compared to the pre-operative period. The intra-operative contact forces between the flexion and extension gaps differed in the two groups; the hanging leg position appeared to produce a greater difference in the judgement of gap balance than the supine leg position, but this difference did not adversely affect the alignment of the component or the early post-operative clinical outcome.

The use of an individualized intraoperative video shows no impact on the early postoperative clinical outcome after total knee arthroplasty: a prospective, randomized, controlled trial

PurposeThe purpose of the study was to evaluate the potential of an intraoperatively recorded video shown to patients immediately postoperatively on early outcome after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The hypothesis was that there is a beneficial outcome concerning range of motion (ROM) and patient-reported outcome due to enhanced trust into the artificial joint.MethodsSeventy-three patients were randomly assigned 1:1 to two study groups in which they were either shown a video of their own postoperative range of motion or they were not. Clinically, the New Knee Society Score (nKSS) and ROM were evaluated and compared between the groups 6 weeks after surgery. Chi-square exact test, Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, Mann–Whitney U test, and the Wilcoxon signed rank test were used. Inter- and intra-class correlations were calculated for measurements of ROM.ResultsNo clinically relevant differences were observed preoperatively and 6 weeks postoperatively between both groups in range of motion (ROM). All patients were showing a significantly improved clinical outcome 6 weeks after the procedure. Clinical scores showed statistically significant differences with respect to preoperative nKSS for satisfaction and statistically significant differences with respect to postoperative nKSS for function.ConclusionShowing a video filmed immediately after implantation of primary TKA had no significant effect on ROM and clinical outcome at 6 weeks. We believe that face-to-face verbal communication in combination with video-assisted education ensures that patients understand their artificial joint in the best possible way and will continue to use intraoperatively filmed videos to enhance patient engagement during postoperative rehabilitation.Level of evidenceI.

Is the Anterolateral or Posterolateral Approach More Effective for Early Postoperative Recovery after Minimally Invasive Total Hip Arthroplasty?

Currently, various minimally invasive surgical techniques are applied for total hip arthroplasty (THA). There are few studies comparing the early postoperative clinical outcomes of minimally invasive THA between anterolateral and posterolateral approaches. In this retrospective study, 62 patients underwent minimally invasive THA via either the anterolateral approach with an intermuscular exposure using the modified Watson-Jones approach (MIS-AL, 34 hips) or mini-incision THA with a posterolateral approach (MIS-PL, 28 hips). We analyzed intraoperative data, postoperative hematological data, postoperative radiographic findings, and the postoperative recovery of muscle strength. The mean surgical time was significantly longer in the MIS-PL than in the MIS-AL group. The mean postoperative serum C-reactive protein level was significantly higher in the MIS-PL group than in the MIS-AL group only on postoperative day 3. There were no significant between-group differences in the postoperative recovery rate of muscle strength during hip abduction. The recovery rate of muscle strength during hip extension was better in the MIS-AL group than in the MIS-PL group only on postoperative day 3. In conclusion, we found no obvious advantage in early postoperative recovery between the MIS-AL and MIS-PL approaches. Therefore, the benefit of rapid postoperative recovery was comparable between the MIS-AL and MIS-PL approaches.

Sonographic and elastographic findings after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: a comparison with clinical results.

We assessed the relationship between early postoperative clinical outcomes of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) and observations obtained by postsurgical ultrasound (US) and strain elastography (SE) of repaired supraspinatus tendons (SSTs). This retrospective study included 42 cases in which the patient underwent ARCR followed by postoperative US and SE. The Korean Shoulder Scoring (KSS) system was used to assess preoperative and postoperative conditions. The thickness of the repaired SST and subdeltoid fluid was measured by US. SE scores were classified into four grades (1 to 4) according to elasticity of repaired SST. In addition, SE scores were divided into two groups: soft (SE scores of 1 and 2) and hard (SE scores of 3 and 4). The relationship between clinical outcomes and US parameters and SE scores was determined by KSS. Postoperative SE scores observed by two readers correlated significantly with function (p = 0.021 and p = 0.021, respectively) and muscle strength (p = 0.008 and p = 0.015, respectively). SE scores were significantly correlated with a difference value of muscle strength of KSS scores (p = 0.002 and p = 0.014). In a comparison of hard and soft groups of repaired SSTs, function (p = 0.008 and p = 0.010, respectively) and muscle strength (p = 0.002 and p = 0.014, respectively) in postoperative KSS scores were statistically higher in the hard SE scores than the soft SE scores. The difference value of function (p = 0.021 and p = 0.021,) and muscle strength (p = 0.008 and p = 0.015) of KSS scores was significantly higher in the hard SE scores. Postoperative SE scores of repaired tendons correlated significantly with muscle strength and function after ARCR. Postoperative US images including thickness of repaired tendon and subdeltoid fluid did not correlate with clinical outcome. SE evaluations of repaired SST may provide important information about postoperative muscle strength and function.

Radiological and Clinical Outcomes comparing 2-level MIS Lateral and MIS Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion in Degenerative Lumbar Spinal Stenosis.

Retrospective Cohort Study. To compare early postoperative radiological and clinical outcomes between 2-level minimally invasive (MIS) trans-psoas lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) and MIS transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) for degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis. Fifty three consecutive patients undergoing 2-level lumbar interbody fusion from L3-L5 for degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis were enrolled. Twenty four patients underwent LLIF and 29 underwent TLIF. Operative time and length of stay were similar between LLIF and TLIF (272.8 ± 82.4 vs 256.1 ± 59.4 minutes; 5.5 ± 2.8 vs 4.7 ± 3.3 days, P > .05), whereas blood loss was lower for LLIF (229.0 ± 125.6 vs 302.4 ± 97.1mls, P = .026). Neurological deficits were more common in LLIF (9 vs 3, P = .025), whereas persistent deficits were rare for both (1 vs 1, P = 1). For both groups, all patient reported outcomes visual analogue scale (VAS back pain, VAS leg pain, ODI, SF-36 physical) improved from preoperative to 2-years postoperative (P < .05), with both groups showing no significant differences in extent of improvement for any outcome. Lateral lumbar interbody fusion demonstrated superior restoration of disc height (L3-L4: 4.1 ± 2.4 vs 1.2 ± 1.9mm, P < .001; L4-L5: 4.6 ± 2.4 vs .8 ± 2.8mm, P < .001), foraminal height (FH) (L3-L4: 3.5 ± 3.6 vs 1.0 ± 3.6mm, P = .014; L4-L5: 3.0 ± 3.5 vs -.1 ± 4.4mm, P = .0080), segmental lordosis (4.1 ± 6.4 vs -2.1 ± 8.1°, P = .005), lumbar lordosis (LL) (4.1 ± 7.0 vs -2.3 ± 12.6°, P = .026) and pelvic incidence-lumbar lordosis (PI-LL) mismatch (-4.1 ± 7.0 vs 2.3 ± 12.6°, P = .019) at 2-years follow-up. The superior radiological outcomes demonstrated by 2-level trans-psoas LLIF did not translate into difference in clinical outcomes compared to 2-level TLIF at the 2-years follow-up, suggesting both approaches are reasonable for 2-level lumbar interbody fusion in degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis.

Operative treatment outcomes of anterior sternoclavicular joint dislocation using two experimental methods - an acromioclavicular joint hook plate versus a locking plate: a retrospective study

BackgroundWe aimed to compare the intraoperative and early postoperative clinical outcomes of using an acromioclavicular joint hook plate (AJHP) versus a locking plate (LP) in the treatment of anterior sternoclavicular joint dislocation.MethodsSeventeen patients with anterior sternoclavicular joint dislocation were retrospectively analyzed from May 2014 to September 2019. Six patients were surgically treated with an AJHP, and 11 were surgically treated with an LP. Five male and one female patients composed the AJHP group, and nine male and two female patients composed the LP group. The mean age of all patients was 49.5 years.ResultsReduction and fixation were performed with AJHP or LP in all 17 patients. The mean operative blood loss, operative time, and length of incision in the AJHP group were significantly better than those in the LP group. Shoulder girdle movement of the AJHP group was significantly better than that of the LP group.ConclusionsThis study revealed that AJHP facilitated glenohumeral joint motion, reduced the risk of rupture of mediastinal structures, required a shorter incision, and had lesser blood loss and a shorter duration of operation compared with LP. However, some deficiencies require further improvement.

Elective inguinal hernia repair: Is increased resident autonomy associated with early postoperative clinical outcome?

DR. A. PETER EKEH (Dayton, Ohio): You queried the VA database and looked at unilateral hernia repairs over a 16-year period to see if resident-led operations were associated with increased complications and demonstrated that there was not any difference. I have a few questions from your presentation and from your manuscript.

Clinical outcomes of del nido cardioplegia and st thomas blood cardioplegia in neonatal congenital heart surgery.

Objectives:Cardioplegia is essential for adequate myocardial protection. There continues to remain ambiguity regarding the ideal cardioplegia for adequate myocardial protection in congenital heart surgery. This study compares clinical outcomes using St Thomas II solution and Del Nido cardioplegia in neonates undergoing cardiac surgery.Methods:All neonates (<30 days) from 2011 to 2017 who underwent surgery requiring cardioplegic arrest were analyzed retrospectively. We divided the cohort into two groups depending on cardioplegia received, as group A (Blood cardioplegia with St Thomas II solution, n = 56) and group B (Del Nido cardioplegia, n = 48). Various demographic, intraoperative, early postoperative, and discharge variables were analyzed.Results:Two groups were similar in age, gender, pre-operative diagnosis, and risk category. Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time (P = 0.002), aortic cross-clamp (ACC) time (P = 0.018), and the number of doses of cardioplegia (P < 0.001) were significantly lower with Del Nido group. Though vasoactive inotropic score (VIS) (P = 0.036) was high during the first 24 h in the immediate postoperative period in group A, there was no difference in early mortality among both groups (P = 0.749). Both groups did not show significant differences related to various postoperative and discharge variables.Conclusion:When compared to St. Thomas solution, the use of Del Nido cardioplegia solution in neonates is associated with a significant decrease in CPB and ACC times and VIS in the first 24 h after surgery. The choice of cardioplegia (St Thomas/Del Nido) in neonates does not affect early mortality and early postoperative clinical outcomes.

Incidence of Radiolucent Lines after Cemented Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Cemented Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) provides excellent long-term survival rates and functional results, however, radiolucent lines (RLLs) often appear during early post-operative follow-up and their incidence and clinical significance are unknown. The primary aim was to establish the incidence, location, frequency, and time taken for RLLs to appear within the first year after a primary cemented TKA with an anatomic tibial baseplate (Smith and Nephew, LEGION Total Knee System). This was a retrospective analysis of 135 primary cemented TKA in 131 patients over three years. We compared demographics, serial radiographs, and early clinical and functional outcomes. There were 65 TKAs (48%) in 62 patients who had RLLs within the first year post-operatively. Most were females (58.8%). Mean age was 68.3 ± 7.9 years. There were 88 RLLs, with the most and second commonest location at the medial tibial baseplate (38%) and anterior femoral flange (23%). 89% were in the bone-cement interface. The largest average length of RLLs were at the anterior flange of the femoral component (1.98 ± 1.33 mm). The average time to development was 6.5 ± 4.1 months. None of these patients had infections nor required revision. Patients with RLLs did not do worse in functional and clinical scoring at 1-year. There was a 48% incidence of physiological RLLs after cemented TKA, with the highest occurrence at the medial tibial baseplate at 38%. These radiolucent lines did not affect early post-operative clinical and functional outcomes of patients.