Intracapsular Hip Fractures Research Articles

Outcome of total hip arthroplasty versus hip hemiarthroplasty for femoral neck fractures in the elderly: a meta-analysis of randomized control trial

Background: Roughly 50% of all hip fractures are femoral neck fractures, these fractures are subtype of intracapsular hip fractures. Elderly patient's femoral neck fracture is typically the consequence of a straightforward fall from standing height with low energy. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) versus hip hemiarthroplasty (HHA) is a topic of controversy that sparked discussions over half century ago, between these two types technique have own advantages and disadvantages. Methods: A comprehensive search conducted across major electronic databases for relevant studies published from 2014-2024. Studies THA with HA for elderly patients with femoral neck fractures were included. Data regarding study characteristics, surgical techniques, outcomes, and garden classification were extracted and analyzed using appropriate statistical methods. Our primary outcomes were surgical duration, functional outcome and complications. Results: The initial search yielded total 825 studies, which 7 studies met the inclusion criteria, consisting of total 747 patients THA and HA for elderly patients with femoral neck fractures. THA had longer surgery duration compared with HA (MD=32.48, 95% CI:5.13 to 59.83, p=0.02). THA showed better ratings Harris hip score (HHS) during a year follow-up periods (MD=2.31, 95 CI:0.42 to 4.21, p=0.02). There was no significant difference in complications. Conclusions: THA advantageous over hemiarthroplasty in the terms of HHS but HA favoured in surgical duration. Ultimately, only large well-conducted studies will result in improvements in the outcomes of treatment and resolve the longstanding controversy of whether THA or HA is the preferred treatment modality for femoral neck fracture in elderly.

Effects of Total Hip or Knee Arthroplasty on Median Survival in Patients Aged 80 Years and Older

During the 20th century, the life expectancy increased by 30 years. At the same time, the number of people living longer than that has grown significantly. The aim of this study was to investigate whether total hip or knee arthroplasty (THA or TKA) in patients over 80 years of age does not reduce their life expectancy. The study examined the data of patients who had undergone THA or TKA between 1994 and 2002 and were older than 80 years at the time of surgery. The study group was divided into a group of patients in whom elective total hip or knee arthroplasty was performed for arthritis and into a group of patients who underwent the same procedure for proximal femur fracture. The investigated parameter was the real survival, which was compared with the life expectancy predicted by the Institute of Health Information and Statistics of the Czech Republic. We also monitored postoperative mortality and postoperative interval after which the life expectancy was no longer reduced. The study included 547 patients. Of whom, 96 patients underwent elective surgery (36%) and 351 patients underwent surgery for intracapsular hip fracture (64%). In the elective surgery group, the survival was longer than the national average: In the 80-84-year group, the median survival was 6.0 years vs. median life expectancy of 5.6 years; in the 85-89-year group, the median survival was 6.3 years vs. median life expectancy of 3.9 years. The fracture surgery group showed a decrease in the life expectancy compared to the national average - in the 80-84-year group, the median survival was 3.5 years vs. median life expectancy of 5.6 years, and in the 85-89-year group, the median survival was 2.9 years vs. median life expectancy of 3.9 years. The likelihood of postoperative mortality was significantly higher in the fracture group than in the elective group (p = 0.05 vs. 0.01), with the difference being the highest in the first 8 weeks after surgery. Correctly indicated THA or TKA in patients over 80 years of age improves the quality of life of these patients and does not reduce the life expectancy. Intracapsular femoral neck fractures in patients of that age can still be considered as an indication for surgical treatment as a life-saving procedure. total hip arthroplasty, total knee arthroplasty, osteoarthritis, hip fracture, life expectancy.

Comparative Study between Dual Mobility Total Hip Replacement versus Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty in the Treatment of Displaced Femoral Neck Fractures in the Elderly

Abstract Background Total hip arthroplasty (THA) or hemiarthroplasty are the most popular treatments for dislocated intracapsular hip fractures. Objective to compare dual mobility total hip arthroplasty and bipolar hemiarthroplasty as a management for the femoral neck fracture in elderly and evaluating the functional outcome. The objective is to perform a systematic review of the outcomes of use of the dual mobility total hip arthroplasty compared to bipolar hemiarthroplasty. Patients and Methods We included randomized controlled trials, including cluster RCTs, controlled (non-randomized) clinical trials or cluster trials, prospective and retrospective comparative cohort studies and case control or nested case-control studies. Results There was statistically significant decrease in the Harris Hip score in BA group (78.31±9.25) than THA group (82.72±7.53). There was statistically significant increase in the percentage of patients with dislocation in BA group (6.2%) than THA group (1.9%). Data Sources Medline databases (PubMed, Medscape, ScienceDirect. EMF-Portal) and all materials available in the Internet till 2023. Conclusion dual mobility cup total hip arthroplasty offers for the patients many advantages such as stability, lower dislocation rates and longevity, all those pros make it a superior treatment choice that bipolar hemiarthroplasty.

Liposomal Bupivacaine Does Not Decrease Postoperative Pain in Patients with Intracapsular Femoral Neck Fracture Treated with Hemiarthroplasty: HEAT-A Randomized, Controlled Trial.

Liposomal bupivacaine (LB) is a long-lasting local anesthetic agent that was developed for use in the surgical setting to help manage postoperative pain. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of LB on postoperative pain, function, and overall hospital course in patients with intracapsular hip fractures who were treated with hip hemiarthroplasty. This was a single-center, randomized prospective double-blinded study of 50 patients with an isolated intracapsular femoral neck fracture who were treated with hip hemiarthroplasty from 2018 to 2022. The study group consisted of 25 patients who were treated with intraoperative LB and bupivacaine hydrochloride injections, while the control group consisted of 25 patients who were treated with intraoperative bupivacaine hydrochloride injections only. Primary outcomes were a visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain, total morphine milligram equivalents (MME), delirium, and time to ambulation with physical therapy. No significant differences between the study and control groups were found in any of the outcomes measured. Most notably, there were no differences in the average postoperative pain score (VAS, 2.26 versus 2.7; p = 0.34), total MME used postoperatively (11.73 versus 9.98 MME; p = 0.71), and postoperative day of discharge (4.00 versus 3.88 days; p = 0.82). The results of our study suggest that use of LB is not associated with substantially improved postoperative pain or function or with a shorter hospital course following hip hemiarthroplasty for a femoral neck fracture. Given the higher cost of LB compared with standard postoperative pain modalities, it is worth questioning its use in the setting of geriatric hip fractures. Therapeutic Level I . See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Total Hip Arthroplasty versus Hemiarthroplasty for the Treatment of Displaced Femoral Neck Fracture in Elderly

Abstract Background Displaced intracapsular hip fractures are most commonly treated using either total hip arthroplasty (THA) or hemiarthroplasty. Aim of the Work To review systematically studies about the use of Total hip arthroplasty Versus hemiarthoplasty in management of displaced femoral neck fracture in elderly. Patients and Methods We included randomized controlled trials, including cluster RCTs, controlled (non-randomized) clinical trials or cluster trials, prospective and retrospective comparative cohort studies, and case-control or nested case-control studies. We excluded cross-sectional studies, case series, and case reports. Search results were uploaded to systematic review management software and manually screened for eligibility to be included. PRISMA flowchart were produced based on the search results and the inclusion/exclusion criteria. Results In our study there was statistically significant increase in the incidence of Reoperation in total hip arthroplasty (3.5%) than hemiarthroplasty (2.3%) with p-value < 0.001. Regarding Dislocation, there was statistically significant increase in the incidence of Dislocation in total hip arthroplasty (3.2%) than hemiarthroplasty (1.7%) with p-value < 0.001. Regarding Infection there was statistically significant increase in the incidence of Infection in total hip arthroplasty (4.5%) than hemiarthroplasty (3.4%) with p- value < 0.001. Regarding General Complications including: (Pneumonia – DVT- Pulmonary embolism- Myocardial infarct- Cerebral vascular lesion- Acute kidney failure- life threatening complications there was statistically no significant difference in the incidence of General complications in hemiarthroplasty (5.5%) and total hip arthroplasty (5.4%) with p-value = 0.608. Conclusions The authors concluded that DMTHA offered a better functional outcome than BA with no significant complications or mortality, and there was no significant difference between DMTHA and BA in the rate of dislocation.

Unsatisfactory Post-operative Imaging Is Predictive of Revision Surgery in Intracapsular Hip Fracture Fixation.

Failed fixation of intracapsular hip fractures in young patients is associated with high morbidity and cost. Accordingly, we set out to determine the association between unsatisfactory post-operative imaging (judged by two fellowship-trained trauma consultants and a senior trainee) and the risk of subsequent reoperation, including adjustment for potential confounding variables. Ninety-four (94) patients aged <60 were included in the study from a single major trauma centre. Exhausted patients (19%) required further surgery, with the most common reason being avascular necrosis (n=10) followed by non-union (n=6). Univariate analysis found only smokers and unsatisfactory fracture reduction to be predictive of failure (p < 0.05). Other demographics and recognised scoring systems from the literature were poor predictors of failure apart from the Haiduewych classification system, utilised to assess the quality of reduction, which showed a trend towards significance (p0.053). Multivariate analysis showed smoking and unsatisfactory fracture reduction to be strong predictors of failure (p<0.05).In those with unsatisfactory fracture reduction, 50% required reoperation compared to 17.5% of those with satisfactory reduction. This study highlights the key principles of ensuring adequate intraoperative reduction and fixation, in keeping with GIRFT principles. Avoiding secondary reoperation is crucial to prevent long-term negative outcomes for this typically high functional demand group of patients. We recommend regular, consultant peer review of post-operative imaging as a method of identifying substandard fracture fixations and those at risk of failure. This will allow opportunities for teaching, clinical improvement, andmultidisciplinary team (MDT) discussions of at-risk patients.

Total hip arthroplasty for fractured neck of femur does not restore preoperative hip-specific function, health-related quality of life, or level of fitness

PurposeThe primary aim was to assess whether a total hip arthroplasty (THA) was able to restore health-related quality of life (HRQoL) following an intracapsular hip fracture. The secondary aims were to assess changes in hip-specific function, fitness/frailty, mortality risk, complications and revision risk, and factors independently associated with these.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study included all patients aged ≥ 50 years admitted with a hip fracture from the emergency department at a single centre during a 42-month period. Patient demographics, perioperative variables, complications, revision, and mortality were collected. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were assessed at final follow-up.ResultsAmong 250 identified patients, 189 (75.6%) were women with a mean age of 70.3 (range 50–94 years). Mean follow-up was 2.3 (SD 1.1) years. The implant and patient survival rates at 2 years were both 95.5% (95% confidence intervals (CI) +/− 2.7). Older age (hazard ratio [HR] 1.22, 95% CI 1.12–1.33, p < 0.001) and male sex (HR 3.33, 95% CI 1.15–10.0, p = 0.026) were independently associated with mortality. There were 19 (7.6%) postoperative complications that included 6 (2.4%) periprosthetic fractures, 5 (2.0%) deep infections, and 8 (3.2%) dislocations, of which 13 underwent revision. Increasing time to theatre (HR 1.02, 95% CI 1.01–1.03, p = 0.017) was independently associated with a postoperative complication. Postoperative PROMs were available for 166 (66.4%) patients. There were significant (p < 0.001) deteriorations in EuroQol-5D (Mean difference [MD] 0.192, 95% CI 0.133–0.252), Oxford hip score (MD 2.5, 95% CI 1.5–3.6), and fitness (Rockwood score MD 0.7, 95% CI 0.5–0.8) relative to preoperative levels of function.ConclusionTHA may be the treatment of choice in a physically active patient with the aim of restoring their HRQoL, hip function, and fitness, but this was not observed. Furthermore, there was a high complication rate which was associated with increasing time to theatre.Level of evidenceIII, retrospective cohort study.

A randomised controlled trial assessing the effect of tranexamic acid on post-operative blood transfusions in patient with intra-capsular hip fractures treated with hemi- or total hip arthroplasty.

Intravenous tranexamic acid (TA) has proven efficacy in reducing blood loss and incidence of transfusion of blood products in elective total joint arthroplasty. However, evidence of efficacy in the setting of intracapsular hip fractures needing hip hemiarthroplasty (HA) or total hip arthroplasty (THA) are scarce. This study aimed to assess post-operative transfusion incidence in this clinical setting. Over a five-year period 250 patients with intracapsular neck of femur fractures requiring arthroplasty were randomised to two groups. The treatment group received three-dose intravenous TA protocol and the control group received usual treatment without administration of TA. Blood loss was estimated from the change in Hb levels on day 1, 3 and 5 after surgery compared to preoperative levels. Transfusions of blood products were recorded when they were triggered by an a priori protocol. Post-operative complications were recorded during patient hospital admission. The intervention group showed significantly lower transfusion incidence of packed red blood cells (PRBC) (6 vs. 15, p = 0.04, OR = 0.37, 95%CI OR = 0.14 to 0.99) and in the group of patients who received a blood transfusion, a trend was observed for patients who received TA to have lesser number of units of PRBC (mean = 1.3 vs. 1.6, p = 0.51). A significant difference was noted in post-operative Hb levels of day 1,3 and 5. Backward stepwise multivariable regression analysis showed the use of TA was the most significant factor for reduction in postoperative blood transfusion (p = 0.047, OR = 0.37, 95% CI OR = 0.14 to 0.99). Assessment of the strength of the correlation showed modest correlation (Pearson correlation - 0.13 p = 0.04, 95% CI correlation= -0.25 to -0.01). There was no increase in adverse events in patients who received TA. The use of TA in setting of intracapsular hip fractures requiring arthroplasty reduces blood loss, the need for transfusion of blood products and may reduce surgical site complications without increasing the risk of VTE.

Cannulated screws fixation for nondisplaced femoral neck fractures: early versus late weight-bearing-a prospective analysis.

Nondisplaced intracapsular fractures (Garden I/II) are predominantly treated with an internal fixation technique. The purpose of the study is to identify the best rehabilitation protocol after internal fixation with 3 parallel cannulated screws. All patients operated on from 2016 to 2021 for femoral neck fractures by internal fixation with 3 cannulated screws were enrolled into this prospective study. The population was divided into two groups: Group A (n = 34) who followed a postoperative rehabilitation protocol involving full and immediate loading, and Group B (n = 22) who followed a postoperative rehabilitation protocol involving late full loading (after 30days). The two groups were compared with each other by mortality rate, postoperative complications and need for re-interventions. Functional outcome and quality of life were assessed at the minimum follow-up of 1year using the modified Harris Hip Score(HHS) and the Short form health survey (SF-12) questionnaire. Group A showed a lower complication rate (2.9% vs. 18.2%), a lower 1-year mortality rate (5.9% vs. 9.1%), a better perception of mental health status (SF12-MCS 56.2 vs. 51.4, p = 0.03) but a worse perception of one's physical health status (SF12-PCS 48.1 vs. 56.7, p < 0.01). The two groups were also statistically overlapping in terms of the functional outcome achieved after the intervention (HHS was 90.94 in Group A vs. 93.15 in Group B, p = 0.32). Postoperative complications, mortality and revision rate were higher in patients who followed a late-loaded rather than early loaded rehabilitation protocol. Functional outcome at 1-year survival is not significantly different. In nondisplaced intracapsular hip fractures treated with cannulated screws, an immediate full load should be preferred. Query.

National Institute of Health and Care Excellence Guidelines for Displaced Intracapsular Hip Fractures: Examining Satisfaction With the Guidelines and Effects on Outcomes

BackgroundThe objectives of the study were to: (1) evaluate satisfaction with the new 2023 National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) criteria for selecting total hip arthroplasty (THA) over hemiarthroplasty and surgical recommendations for treatment of displaced intracapsular hip fractures; (2) describe why THA is performed when NICE criteria are not met; and (3) determine whether satisfaction with these guidelines is associated with improved outcomes. MethodsA retrospective chart review of patients who had a displaced intracapsular hip fracture treated with THA at a single tertiary academic center between 2010 and 2022 was performed. Preoperative patient characteristics were reviewed to determine if the indication for THA met NICE criteria. Operative details, perioperative complications, reoperation, and revision arthroplasty within 12 months of surgery were recorded. ResultsData from 196 patients (63% women; age 67 ± 10 years) were used. There were 161 THAs (82.1%) that satisfied NICE criteria. The 2 most common reasons for performing a THA when NICE criteria were not met (n = 35) included preoperative radiographic osteoarthritis (Tönnis grade ≥ 2; 48.6%) and decreased patient age (< 65 years; 31.5%). Satisfaction with the NICE criteria was associated with fewer perioperative complications (0.6 versus 37.1%; P < .001), reoperations (0.6 versus 31.4%; P < .001), and revisions (0.6 versus 28.6%; P < .001). The most common reason for revision was periprosthetic fracture, possibly secondary to the use of uncemented femoral stems (171 of 196, 87.2%). ConclusionsSatisfaction with the new NICE criteria is associated with improved perioperative outcomes. Further studies are necessary to determine if preexisting hip osteoarthritis and younger age merit consideration in patient selection.

Safety and efficacy in the management of older patients with displaced intracapsular hip fractures

The management of the older person with a displaced intracapsular hip fracture is one of the most significant aspects of musculoskeletal trauma. These patients require prompt, integrated pathway delivered care. The care delivered outside of the operating theatre and that performed within, are intertwined. Traditionally, surgeons have focussed predominantly only on the operative elements. In modern trauma care for older people, this focus must broaden. We provide for the first time a comprehensive overview of all elements of care for this important patient group. This brings together pathway elements from the National Hip Fracture Database Key Performance Indicators and NICE guidance alongside a synthesis of all current research output for intracapsular hip fracture.

TOTAL HIP ARTHROPLASTY OR HIP HEMIARTHROPLASTY: WHAT IS THE CORRECT CHOICE IN ALCOHOLICS AGED 40 TO 65 YEARS?

NICE Guidelines suggest patients should be offered a Total Hip Replacement (THR) rather than Hemiarthroplasty for a displaced intracapsular hip fracture. We investigated outcomes of patients aged 40–65 who received a THR or Hemiarthroplasty following a traumatic intracapsular hip fracture and had either high-risk (Group 1) or low-risk (Group 2) alcohol consumption (&gt;14 or &lt;14 units/week respectively).This was a retrospective study (April 2008 – December 2018) evaluating patients who underwent THR or Hemiarthroplasty in Greater Glasgow and Clyde. Atraumatic injuries, acetabular fractures, patients with previous procedures on the affected side and those lost to follow up were excluded. Analysis of length of admission, dislocation risk, periprosthetic fractures, infection risk, and mortality was conducted between both cohorts.Survival time post-operatively of Group 1 patients with a THR (61.9 months) and Hemiarthroplasty (42.3 months) were comparable to Group 2 patients with a THR (59 months) and Hemiarthroplasty(42.4 months). Group 1 patients with THR had increased risk of dislocation (12.9%; p=0.04) compared to those that received Hemiarthroplasty (2.5%). Group 1 Hemiarthroplasty patients had increased wound infection risk (11.6%) compared to Group 2 (3.7%).In conclusion, we found that amongst our population the life expectancy of a post-operative patient was short irrespective of whether they had high or low-risk alcohol consumption. A hip fracture may represent increased frailty in our study population. The Group 1 THR cohort presented a higher risk of hip dislocation and periprosthetic fracture. With this in mind, Hemiarthroplasty is a more cost-effective and shorter operation which produces similar results.

Health economics for intra-capsular hip fractures undertaking fixation.

Hip fracture is a common musculoskeletal injury in the elderly requiring surgery worldwide. The operative mainstay of intra-capsular hip fractures is arthroplasty with a smaller proportion for fixation. To determine the most beneficial method of fixation for patients with intra-capsular hip fractures. A registered audit from 2012-2018 was conducted on all intra-capsular hip fractures treated with 2 commonly used fixation methods. Patient notes, electronic records and clinical codes for cost benefit were evaluated. A validated quality of life measure was collected at least 1 year after surgery. A total of 83 patients were identified with intra-capsular fractures undergoing fixation during the retrospective period. There were 47 cannulated cancellous screw and 36 sliding hip screw fixations with the case mix comparable for age, gender, co-morbidities and fracture configuration. There was no significant difference in blood loss, tip apex distance, radiation exposure, length of stay, radiological union time, collapse, avascular necrosis or re-operation between fixation methods. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated displaced intracapsular hip fractures correlated significantly with an undesirable outcome conferring a relative odds ratio of 7.25. There were 9 (19%) and 4 (11%) patients respectively, who required re-operation. There was no significant difference in health resource group tariff and implant cost with comparable EQ-5D and visual analogue scores. No significant advantage was identified with differing fixation type, but irrespective there were a high number of patients requiring re-operation. This was predicted by initial fracture displacement and patient age. Arthroplasty may need to be carefully considered for health economics and patient benefit.

The effect of degenerative scoliosis and spinopelvic parameters on dislocation of hip hemiarthroplasty.

Degeneration of the spine may affect pelvic parameters and hip mobility. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of degenerative scoliosis and spinopelvic parameters on hip hemiarthroplasty dislocations. A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients who underwent hemiarthroplasty for intracapsular hip fracture over a twenty-year period. Demographic data, dislocation incidence, degenerative scoliosis (DS) status, type of hemiarthroplasty, surgical intervention to the hip, femoral head size, cement use, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, body mass index (BMI), and in-hospital mortality were evaluated. The Cobb angle (CA), pelvic incidence (PI), sacral slope (SS), pelvic tilt (PT), lumbar lordosis (LL), and thoracic kyphosis (TK) angles were measured and analyzed. A total of 284 patients were evaluated, with a mean age of 79.07 (±8.21) years. The frequency of hemiarthroplasty dislocation was 13% (n=37). Degenerative scoliosis was detected in 25.4% of the cases and was significantly more common in patients with degenerative scoliosis (p=0.001). Advanced age, higher BMI, higher ASA score, unipolar and cementless hemiarthroplasty, smaller femoral head size, and the posterior approach significantly increased dislocation frequency (p=0.004, p=0.001, p=0.03, p=0.001, p=0.001, and p=0.026, respectively). The mean PI, SS, PT, LL, and TK angles were significantly reduced in patients with dislocation and degenerative scoliosis (dislocation: p=0.001, p=0.001, p=0.001, p=0.003, p=0.048; degenerative scoliosis: p=0.001, p=0.001, p=0.001, p=0.001, p=0.001; respectively). The presence of degenerative scoliosis and low pelvic incidence, sacral slope, pelvic tilt, thoracic kyphosis, and lumbar lordosis angles may increase the frequency of hemiarthroplasty dislocations. The posterior approach and small femoral head size may also elevate the risk of posterior dislocation.

Trabecular, but not cortical, bone tissue protein synthesis rates are lower in the femoral head when compared to the proximal femur following an intracapsular hip fracture.

All musculoskeletal tissues are in a constant state of turnover, with a dynamic equilibrium between tissue protein synthesis and breakdown rates. The synthesis of protein allows musculoskeletal tissues to heal following injury. Yet, impaired tissue healing is observed following certain injuries, such as geriatric hip fractures. It is assumed that the regenerative properties of femoral head bone tissue are compromised following an intracapsular hip fracture and therefore hip replacement surgery is normally performed. However, the actual impact on in vivo bone protein synthesis rates has never been determined. In the present study, 10 patients (age: 79±10 y, BMI: 24±4kg/m2) with an acute (<24h) intracapsular hip fracture received a primed continuous intravenous infusion of L-[ring-13C6]-phenylalanine before and throughout their hip replacement surgery. Trabecular and cortical bone tissue from both the femoral head and proximal femur were sampled during surgery to assess protein synthesis rates of affected (femoral head) and unaffected (proximal femur) bone tissue, respectively. In addition, tissue samples of gluteus maximus muscle, synovium, ligamentum teres, and femoral head cartilage were collected. Tissue-specific protein synthesis rates were assessed by measuring L-[ring-13C6]-phenylalanine incorporation in tissue protein. Femoral head trabecular bone protein synthesis rates (0.056 [0.024-0.086] %/h) were lower when compared to proximal femur trabecular bone protein synthesis rates (0.081 [0.056-0.118] %/h; P=0.043). Cortical bone protein synthesis rates did not differ between the femoral head and proximal femur (0.041 [0.021-0.078] and 0.045 [0.028-0.073] %/h, respectively; P>0.05). Skeletal muscle, synovium, ligamentum teres, and femoral head cartilage protein synthesis rates averaged 0.080 [0.048-0.089], 0.093 [0.051-0.130], 0.121 [0.110-0.167], and 0.023 [0.015-0.039] %/h, respectively. In contrast to the general assumption that the femoral head is avital after an intracapsular displaced hip fracture in the elderly, our data show that bone protein synthesis is still ongoing in femoral head bone tissue during the early stages following an intracapsular hip fracture in older patients. Nonetheless, trabecular bone protein synthesis rates are lower in the femoral head when compared to the proximal femur in older patients following an acute intracapsular hip fracture. Trial register no: NL9036.

Does the time to surgery influence outcomes for patients with a hip fracture who undergo total hip arthroplasty?

Surgery is often delayed in patients who sustain a hip fracture and are treated with a total hip arthroplasty (THA), in order to await appropriate surgical expertise. There are established links between delay and poorer outcomes in all patients with a hip fracture, but there is little information about the impact of delay in the less frail patients who undergo THA. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of delayed surgery on outcomes in these patients. A retrospective cohort study was undertaken using data from the Scottish Hip Fracture Audit between May 2016 and December 2020. Only patients undergoing THA were included, with categorization according to surgical treatment within 36 hours of admission (≤ 36 hours = 'acute group' vs > 36 hours = 'delayed' group). Those with delays due to being "medically unfit" were excluded. The primary outcome measure was 30-day survival. Costs were estimated in relation to the differences in the lengths of stay. A total of 1,375 patients underwent THA, with 397 (28.9%) having surgery delayed by > 36 hours. There were no significant differences in the age, sex, residence prior to admission, and Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation for those with, and those without, delayed surgery. Both groups had statistically similar 30-day (99.7% vs 99.3%; p = 0.526) and 60-day (99.2% vs 99.0%; p = 0.876) survival. There was, however, a significantly longer length of stay for the delayed group (acute: 7.0 vs delayed: 8.9 days; p < 0.001; overall: 8.7 vs 10.2 days; p = 0.002). Delayed surgery did not significantly affect the rates of 30-day readmission (p = 0.085) or discharge destination (p = 0.884). The results were similar following adjustment for potential confounding factors. The estimated additional cost due to delayed surgery was £1,178 per patient. Delayed surgery does not appear to be associated with increased mortality in patients with an intracapsular hip fracture who undergo THA, compared with those who are treated with a hemiarthroplasty or internal fixation. Those with delayed surgery, however, have a longer length of stay, with financial consequences. Clinicians must balance ethical considerations, the local provision of orthopaedic services, and optimization of outcomes when determining the need to delay surgery in a patient with a hip fracture awaiting THA.

Rate of Complications after Hip Fractures Caused by Prolonged Time-to-Surgery Depends on the Patient's Individual Type of Fracture and Its Treatment.

Hip fractures are common injuries in the elderly and are usually treated with timely surgery. While severe postoperative complications are reported for up to 10% of patients, many studies identified predictive factors for the occurrence of complications postoperatively. A controversially discussed factor is "time-to-surgery". The aim of the study was to examine if time-to-surgery was associated with the occurrence of complications and if the complication rate differed between the patient individual fracture types of intracapsular on the one hand and extracapsular hip fractures on the other hand. We hypothesized that time-to-surgery had less impact on complications in intracapsular hip fractures compared to extracapsular ones, and therefore, guidelines should pay attention to the patient individual case scenario. All patients who were admitted to the Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery of an academic teaching hospital for hip fracture surgery (n = 650) over a five-year period were included in the study. After the application of the exclusion criteria, such as periprosthetic or pathologic fractures, cases needed immediate surgical treatment, and after outlier adjustment, 629 cases remained in the study. Hip fractures were classified into intracapsular fractures (treated by hip arthroplasty) and extracapsular fractures (treated by intramedullary nailing osteosynthesis). The occurrence of severe complications in patients treated within 24 h was compared with patients treated later than 24 h after injury. For statistical evaluation, a multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate the impact of time-to-surgery interval on the occurrence of complications. Patients with an extracapsular fracture, which was treated with intramedullary nailing (44.5%), rarely suffered a serious complication when surgery was performed within 24 h after injury. However, when the interval of the time-to-surgery was longer than 24 h, the complication rate increased significantly (8.63% vs. 25.0%, p = 0.002). In contrast to this finding in patients with intracapsular fractures (55.5%), which were treated with cemented arthroplasty, complication rates did not depend on the 24 h interval (26.17% vs. 20.83%, p = 0.567). The occurrence of complications after surgical treatment of hip fractures is associated with the time interval between injury and surgery. A 24 h time interval between injury and surgical procedure seems to play a major role only in extracapsular fractures treated with osteosynthesis but not in intracapsular fractures treated with arthroplasty. Therefore, guidelines should take notice of the patient individual case scenario and, in particular, the individual hip fracture type.

The Reverse Fragility Index for Mortality End Points in Randomized Trials Comparing Uncemented and Cemented Hemiarthroplasty for Intracapsular Hip Fractures

BackgroundInterpreting clinical relevance of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) is challenging when P-values are marginally above or below the P = .05 threshold. This study examined the robustness of statistically insignificant mortality events from RCTs comparing hemiarthroplasty femoral fixation for displaced intracapsular hip fractures through the reverse fragility index (RFI). MethodsRCTs were identified using Pubmed, OVID/Medline, and Cochrane databases. Mortality endpoints were stratified into 3 categories: (1) within 30-days, (2) within 90-days, and (3) at latest follow-up. The RFI was derived by manipulating reported mortality events utilizing a contingency table while maintaining a constant number of participants. The reverse fragility quotient (RFQ) was quantified by dividing the RFI by the study sample. ResultsEight RCTs (2,494 participants) were included. The median RFI and RFQ within 30-days was 3.0 (interquartile range [IQR]: 3.0 to 6.0) and 0.016 (IQR: 0.015 to 0.021), suggesting nonsignificant findings were contingent on 1.6 mortality events/100 participants. The median RFI and RFQ within 90-days was 6.0 (IQR: 4.0 to 7.0) and 0.028 (IQR: 0.024 to 0.038), suggesting nonsignificant findings were contingent on 2.8 mortality events/100 participants. At latest follow-up, the median RFI and RFQ was 7.0 (IQR: 6.0 to 12.0) and 0.038 (IQR: 0.029 to 0.054), suggesting nonsignificant findings were contingent on only 3.8 mortality events/100 participants. Median loss to follow-up was 16.0 (IQR: 11.0 to 58.0; 228% greater than RFI), and exceeded the RFI in 6/7(85.7%) studies. ConclusionsA small number of events (median of 7) was required to convert a statistically nonsignificant finding to one that is significant for the endpoint of mortality. The median loss to follow-up exceeded the median RFI by greater than 200%, suggesting methodological limitations such as patient allocation could alter conclusions.

Tip-to-apex distance does not predict fixation failure regardless of reduction quality in intra-capsular neck of femur fractures treated with femoral neck system

Femoral neck system (FNS) is a novel fixed-angle gliding device combining a sliding bolt and an anti-rotational screw to treat femoral neck fractures. It was proven to have comparable biomechanical strength to sliding hip screws. Tip-to-apex distance (TAD) is an established assessment for fixation quality in sliding hip screws. The purpose of our study was to evaluate whether TAD can be used in FNS implant to predict fixation failure. Seventy-six patients receiving FNS fixation for intra-capsular hip fracture were included. TAD was measured from post-operative radiographs and clinical outcomes were collected with a mean follow-up of 14.1 months. The mean TAD for patients who experienced fixation failure was 20.7 mm, versus 19.7 mm for those who did not ( p = 0.395). Subgroup analysis among fractures with good reduction quality, defined as no varus angulation, less than 5 degrees of retroversion, and less than 4 mm cortical translation, did not demonstrate statistically significant difference in the mean TAD between failure and non-failure group (20.7 mm vs 19.5 mm, p = 0.68). We conclude that in our study of modest sample size, there was not demonstrable association between TAD and fixation failure in intra-capsular neck of femur patients treated with FNS.

Clinical Effectiveness of Total Hip Arthroplasty Compared With Hemiarthroplasty in Adults Undergoing Surgery for Displaced Intracapsular Hip Fracture: A Single-Centre Retrospective Cohort Study.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends offering total hip arthroplasty (THA) over hemiarthroplasty (HA) for displaced intracapsular hip fractures, taking the premorbid functionality, present co-morbidities, and functional benefit beyond two years into account. Concerns remain whether the higher surgical burden and incidence of complications in THA would outweigh the potential benefits in the elderly. This retrospective cohort study evaluates the differences in surgical outcomes of THA vs HA in 85 patients with displaced intracapsular fractures, based on the time taken for patients to ambulate to walking frame/crutches and wheelchair post-operatively and the incidence of post-operative complications. Patients who received HA were significantly older (p<0.0001, <0.05) and had poorer pre-operative ambulatory function (p=0.032, p<0.05) than those of the THA group. HA patients had a significantly faster recovery to walking frame/crutches (20.2 days) compared to THA patients (47.3 days) (Mann-Whitney U=447.500, n=46, p=0.043, <0.05 two-tailed). While no significant differences were found in deep vein thrombosis (DVT), infected prosthesis, or dislocation incidence, hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) was more prevalent in THA patients (p=0.044, <0.05). Time to the walking frame had a significant effect on DVT/PE (p<0.001, <p0.05), the infected prosthesis (p=0.002, <0.05), and HAP (p=0.066, <0.05) incidence, while time to a wheelchair only affected HAP incidence (p<0.001, <0.05). HA patients showed favourable outcomes in time to ambulate post-operatively and incidence of HAP among patients with advanced age and those with poorer pre-operative ambulatory function.