Intra-articular Group Research Articles

Intra-articular triamcinolone acetonide improves lung function in horses with severe asthma.

Locally administered corticosteroids are commonly used to treat joint diseases in sport and racehorses. As they are also the most potent drugs for the treatment of equine asthma, we hypothesised that the intra-articular corticosteroids used to treat joint diseases also improve the lung function in horses with severe asthma, thus potentially delaying the diagnosis of this common lung condition. To compare the effects of intra-articular (IA) and intramuscular (IM) triamcinolone acetonide (TA) on lung function in horses with severe asthma. Randomised and controlled experiment on asthma-prone research animals. Horses with severe asthma in clinical exacerbation were given either 20mg of TA in both tarsocrural joints (n=5; 40mg/horse) or 40mg of TA intramuscularly (n=5). Lung function and TA serum concentrations were measured weekly for 35days. TA serum concentrations were also evaluated on day 3. The pulmonary resistance (RL ) and elastance (EL ) values decreased by day 7 in the IA group (P<0.0001 and P=0.003, respectively) and by day 14 in the IM group (P=0.002 and 0.03, respectively). Lung function was improved up to days 21 and 28 in the IA and IM groups, respectively, when compared with baseline. TA serum levels were below the quantification limit (100pg/ml) for 4 and 3 of the 5 horses in the IA and IM groups, respectively, on day7. The area under the curve for RL , EL and the serum concentrations of TA were similar in both groups. The response of horses with severe asthma might differ from that of high-performance horses with mild/moderate asthma. Intra-articular administration of TA improves lung function in horses with severe asthma, an effect that persists when TA serum concentration is below the quantification level that is employed as a threshold by the International Association of Racing Commissioners.

Which route of administration of acid tranexamic, intravenous or intra-articular, is more effective in the control of post-surgical bleeding after a total hip arthroplasty? A prospective, controlled and randomized study

IntroductionOne of the most frequent complications after a total hip arthroplasty (THA) is bleeding, intravenous tranexamic acid (TXA) is used to reduce it. We considered it necessary to carry out a study to clarify which administration route is superior. Material and methodProspective, controlled and randomized study in 2 arms carried out between February 2017 and February 2018. 15mg/kg of intravenous TXA were administered in group A and 2g of intra-articular TXA in group B. The values of haemoglobin and haematocrit were evaluated at 24h-72h, blood loss volume, drained blood volume, transfusions and complications. Results78 patients were included, 31 with intravenous treatment and 47 with intra-articular. The decrease of haemoglobin in the intravenous group was 3.15±1.64g/dl in 24h and 3.75±1.56g/dl in 72h, the haematocrit decreased by 10.4±4.17% in 24h and 11.85±4.15% in 72h. In the intra-articular group there was a haemoglobin fall of 3.03±1.30g/dl in 24h and 3.22±1.2g/dl in 72h and the haematocrit fell by 10.66±3.6% and 12.11±3.29% in 24 and 72h (p>.05). The mean drainage in 24h was 195.80ml in group A versus 253.93ml in group B (p>.05) and in 48h it was 225.33ml in group A and 328.19ml in group B (p=.009). The intravenous group lost an average of 1505ml of blood compared to the 11,280ml of the intra-articular group. In 5.1% of the cases, transfusions were necessary. We had no secondary complications. ConclusionsThe different routes of administration of TXA in THA have a similar effect in the reduction of postoperative bleeding. There was no evidence of an increase in complications.

Aplicación del tranexámico intravenoso o intraarticular en el control del sangrado posquirúrgico tras una artroplastia total de cadera. Estudio prospectivo, controlado y aleatorizado

IntroductionOne of the most frequent complications after a total hip arthroplasty (THA) is bleeding, intravenous tranexamic acid (TXA) is used to reduce it. We considered it necessary to carry out a study to clarify which administration route is superior. Material and methodProspective, controlled and randomized study in 2 arms carried out between February 2017 and February 2018. 15mg/kg of intravenous TXA were administered in group-A and 2gr of intra-articular TXA in group-B. The values of haemoglobin and haematocrit were evaluated at 24h-72h, blood loss volume, drained blood volume, transfusions and complications. Results78 patients were included, 31 with intravenous treatment and 47 with intra-articular. The decrease of haemoglobin in the intravenous group was 3.15±1.64g/dl in 24h and 3.75±1.56g/dl in 72h, the haematocrit decreased by 10.4±4.17% in 24h and 11.85±4.15% in 72h. In the intra-articular group there was a haemoglobin fall of 3.03±1.30g/dl in 24h and 3.22±1.2g/dl in 72h and the haematocrit fell by 10.66±3.6% and 12,11±3.29% in 24 and 72h (P>.05). The mean drainage in 24h was 195.80ml in group-A versus 253.93ml in group-B (P>.05) and in 48h it was 225.33ml in group-A and 328.19ml in group-B (P=.009). The intravenous group lost an average of 1,505ml of blood compared to the 11,280ml of the intra-articular group. In 5.1% of the cases, transfusions were necessary. We had no secondary complications. ConclusionsThe different routes of administration of TXA in THA have a similar effect in the reduction of postoperative bleeding. There was no evidence of an increase in complications.

Functional Outcomes Following Treatment for Clubfoot

The purpose of this study was to assess function, at the age of 10 years, of children initially treated nonoperatively for clubfoot with either the Ponseti or French physiotherapy program and to compare outcomes in feet that had undergone only nonoperative treatment with those that required subsequent surgery. Gait analysis, isokinetic ankle strength, parent-reported outcomes, and daily step activity data were collected when patients who had been treated for idiopathic clubfoot reached the age of 10 years. Patients who had undergone only nonoperative treatment were compared with those who subsequently underwent extra-articular surgery or intra-articular surgery (posterior release or posteromedial release). The clubfoot groups were compared with age-matched controls. Of 263 treated clubfeet in 175 patients, 148 had only been treated nonoperatively, 29 underwent extra-articular surgery, and 86 underwent intra-articular surgery (posterior release in 42 and posteromedial release in 44). Significant abnormalities were found in ankle kinetics and isokinetic ankle strength in the feet treated with intra-articular surgery compared with the nonoperatively treated feet (p < 0.017). Compared with controls (n = 40 feet), all groups showed reduced ankle plantar flexion during gait, resulting in a deficit of 9% to 14% for dynamic range of motion, 13% to 20% for ankle moment, and 13% to 23% for power (p < 0.013). Within the intra-articular group, feet that underwent posteromedial release had decreased plantar flexion strength (15%; p = 0.008), dorsiflexion strength (6%; p = 0.048), and parent-reported global function scores (p = 0.032) compared with the posterior release group. The patients with clubfoot took 10% fewer steps (p = 0.015) and had 11% less total ambulatory time (p = 0.001) than the controls. Examination of patients when they had reached the age of 10 years showed better ankle power and isokinetic strength for clubfeet treated without surgery compared with those that underwent intra-articular surgery for residual deformity or recurrence. Compared with controls, both nonoperatively and surgically treated clubfeet had significant limitations in ankle plantar flexion resulting in decreased range of motion, moment, and power. Gastrocnemius-soleus complex strength was decreased after both nonoperative and surgical treatment of clubfeet. Although activity was diminished in the clubfoot population, no differences in function were perceived by the patients' parents. Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Tranexamic acid in primary total knee arthroplasty without tourniquet: a randomized, controlled trial of oral versus intravenous versus topical administration

Abundant literature confirms that intravenous (IV) and intra-articular (IA) administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) reduces blood loss in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Oral formulations of TXA exhibit profound cost-saving benefits. However, comparisons of the clinical efficacy among three different modalities of TXA administration have not been previously investigated in the setting of TKA with no closed suction drain and tourniquet. A total of 180 patients undergoing TKA were randomized to receive 2-g oral TXA 2 hours preoperatively, 20-mg/kg IV TXA 5 minutes prior to incision, or 2-g IA TXA. The primary outcome was 72-hour blood loss. Secondary outcomes were reductions in hemoglobin, the rate of transfusions, and adverse events. No significant differences were identified with regard to the mean 72-hour blood loss among the three groups (1003 mL in oral group, 1108 mL in IV group, and 1059 mL in IA group, respectively). Similarly, hemoglobin reduction was equivalent among the groups. Only one patient in IV group exhibited deep venous thrombosis. No difference was identified regarding transfusion rates. Oral TXA results in similar blood loss in TKA, with a profound cost-saving benefit, compared with the IA and IV formulations.

Effectiveness of Lumbar Facet Joint Blocks and Predictive Value before Radiofrequency Denervation: The Facet Treatment Study (FACTS), a Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial.

WHAT THIS ARTICLE TELLS US THAT IS NEW: BACKGROUND:: With facet interventions under scrutiny, the authors' objectives were to determine the effectiveness of different lumbar facet blocks and their ability to predict radiofrequency ablation outcomes. A total of 229 participants were randomized in a 2:2:1 ratio to receive intraarticular facet injections with bupivacaine and steroid, medial branch blocks, or saline. Those with a positive 1-month outcome (a 2-point or more reduction in average pain score) and score higher than 3 (positive satisfaction) on a 5-point satisfaction scale were followed up to 6 months. Participants in the intraarticular and medial branch block groups with a positive diagnostic block (50% or more relief) who experienced a negative outcome proceeded to the second phase and underwent radiofrequency ablation, while all saline group individuals underwent ablation. Coprimary outcome measures were average reduction in numerical rating scale pain score 1 month after the facet or saline blocks, and average numerical rating scale pain score 3 months after ablation. Mean reduction in average numerical rating scale pain score at 1 month was 0.7 ± 1.6 in the intraarticular group, 0.7 ± 1.8 in the medial branch block group, and 0.7 ± 1.5 in the placebo group; P = 0.993. The proportions of positive blocks were higher in the intraarticular (54%) and medial branch (55%) groups than in the placebo group (30%; P = 0.01). Radiofrequency ablation was performed on 135 patients (45, 48, and 42 patients from the intraarticular, medial branch, and saline groups, respectively). The average numerical rating scale pain score at 3 months was 3.0 ± 2.0 in the intraarticular, 3.2 ± 2.5 in the medial branch, and 3.5 ± 1.9 in the control group (P = 0.493). At 3 months, the proportions of positive responders in the intraarticular, medial branch block, and placebo groups were 51%, 56%, and 24% for the intraarticular, medial branch, and placebo groups, respectively (P = 0.005). This study establishes that facet blocks are not therapeutic. The higher responder rates in the treatment groups suggest a hypothesis that facet blocks might provide prognostic value before radiofrequency ablation.

Suprapectoral vs. Intra Articular Biceps Tenodesis: A Comparison of Clinical Outcomes

Objectives:The long head of the biceps tendon is a frequent pain generator within the shoulder. It is subjected to trauma and wear within the glenohumeral joint and within the intertubercular groove. Tenodesis of this tendon is a common treatment option for patients experiencing biceps tendon related pain. There are several different techniques to perform this procedure. Proximal intra-articular tenodesis can be performed but leaves the tendon within the intertubercular groove. Alternatively, suprapectoral tenodesis can be performed removing the tendon from the bicipital groove and sheath while avoiding conversion to an open procedure. Further, suprapectoral tenodesis limits complications associated with an open distally based incision. Several studies have compared these techniques to tenotomy or open-subpectoral tenodesis. This is the first study to directly compare patient outcomes between intra-articular and suprapectoral bicep tenodeses.Methods:Retrospective review of patients undergoing intra-articular or suprapectoral arthroscopic biceps tenodesis from 2010 - 2015. Clinical outcomes were measured at set intervals post-operatively (3 months, 6 months, and 12 months) and compared to pre-operative scores. Outcome measures included short form-12, both physical (PSF) and mental (MSF) component scores, and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (ASES).Results:A total of 96 patients were available for this study, 43 had intra-articular tenodesis and 56 had suprapectoral tenodesis. There was no difference in functional outcomes between intra and extra articular biceps tenodesis at 1-year post-operative. The intra-articular group had a quicker improvement in scores with the greatest increase at 3 months post-operatively, specifically in PSF group (p=0.016): however, this difference leveled off at 1-year follow up (p=0.238). The intra-articular group had greater absolute scores at all measured time points, but not significantly. Both groups showed improvement in all outcome measures and there was found to be no difference in changes for ASES, PSF, or MSF (p=0.262, p=0.489, and p=0.907 respectively).Conclusion:This study demonstrates that both intra-articular and surpapectoral techniques are acceptable options for biceps tenodesis. Despite leaving the biceps tendon within the glenohumeral joint and intertubercular groove, the intra-articular technique offers similar improvement in outcome measures to the suprapectoral technique.

Five to Ten-Year Outcomes of Operatively Treated Scapular Fractures.

The purpose of this study was to assess the 5 to 10-year clinical and patient-reported functional outcomes after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of intra-articular and extra-articular scapular fractures. We conducted a retrospective review of prospectively collected data on 106 patients who underwent ORIF of a scapular fracture at a single level-I trauma center between January 2005 and December 2010. Eight patients were excluded from the study because they had either severe neurologic injury or an isolated process fracture, and 66 patients (37 with an isolated extra-articular fracture and 29 with an intra-articular fracture) participated in the 5 to 10-year follow-up, yielding a follow-up rate of 67%. A physical examination including a strength assessment and range-of-motion measurements was performed on 89% of the follow-up cohort. Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) and Short Form-12 version 2 (SF-12v2) or SF-36v2 questionnaires were completed by all participating patients. Intra-articular and extra-articular fractures were analyzed in separate groups. The mean follow-up was 7.8 years in the extra-articular group and 7.3 years in the intra-articular group, with a range of 4.7 to 10.3 years. The mean DASH score was 8.9 in the extra-articular group and 9.1 in the intra-articular group (normal population = 10.1). Strength examination revealed no significant differences between the injured and uninjured shoulders for any movement (p > 0.05), while the range of external rotation was slightly decreased in both the extra-articular (p = 0.01) and the intra-articular (p = 0.01) group. The abduction range of motion was also slightly decreased in the intra-articular cohort (p = 0.03). Arthroplasty was indicated as a subsequent procedure for 2 patients in the intra-articular cohort. Sixty-one of the 66 patients returned to their original occupation or changed occupations for reasons unrelated to the shoulder injury. At 5 to 10 years after ORIF of a scapular fracture, patients have excellent functional outcomes albeit with a small decrease in external rotation motion relative to the contralateral, normal shoulder. Interestingly, we found the outcomes after intra-articular and extra-articular fractures to be comparable. Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Comparison of oral versus intra-articular tranexamic acid in enhanced-recovery primary total knee arthroplasty without tourniquet application: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundAlthough randomized controlled trials have confirmed oral tranexamic acid (TXA) can provide similar blood-sparing efficacy compared with intravenous (IV) TXA in total knee arthroplasty (TKA), some concerns do remain about thromboembolic events after such systemic administration. Many studies have confirmed that intra-articular (IA) application of TXA can show similar blood-saving efficacy with minimal levels of systemic absorption compared with IV TXA. However, it remains unclear whether the efficacy and safety of oral TXA administration is equal to or less than that of IA administration in TKA without the use of a tourniquet and drain. Thus, this study was to verify non-inferior efficacy and safety of oral TXA compared with IA TXA in primary TKA.MethodsA double-blind, randomized, controlled trial was performed to compare three oral doses of TXA (2 g of TXA 2 h before incision, and 1 g of TXA 6 and 12 h after surgery, respectively) with IA TXA (3 g of TXA in 100 mL of saline solution). One hundred forty-seven patients scheduled for TKA were randomized to one of the two interventions. The primary outcome was total blood loss. The secondary outcomes included reduction of hemoglobin concentration, clinical outcomes, blood coagulation values, thromboembolic complications, and transfusion rates.ResultsThe mean total blood loss was 788.8 mL in the oral TXA group compared with 872.4 mL in the IA TXA group, with no statistical significance (p > 0.05). There were no significant differences in reduction of hemoglobin level, blood coagulation level, and clinical outcomes. The transfusion rates were 4% in oral group and 5% IA group, respectively. Also, no significant differences were identified in thromboembolic complications.ConclusionOral TXA according to the described protocol demonstrated non-inferiority for primary TKA, with no safety concerns and a greatly reduced cost, compared with the IA TXA. This randomized controlled trial supports the oral administration of TXA in TKA.Trial registrationThe trial was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR-INR-17010968) dated 23rd March 2017.

Is Combined Administration of Tranexamic Acid Better than Both Intravenous and Topical Regimes for Total Loss, Hidden Loss and Post-operative Swelling? A Randomized Control Trial.

Background:Bleeding is one of the unavoidable complications of total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Tranexamic acid (TXA) in last decade has emerged as an effective and safe way to decrease postoperative bleeding and transfusion rates. Although there is little doubt on the efficacy of the drug, the debate on ideal mode is more recent. We undertook this study to find out the most effective and yet safest way of TXA administration.Materials and Methods:A single institution - two hospital-based, double-blinded, prospective, randomized control trial was conducted from January 2015 to December 2015. One hundred and fifty patients were randomly divided in one of the three groups using computer-generated tables - intravenous (IV), intraarticular and combined. Evident loss through drain, total loss based on gross method and hemoglobin balance method, hidden blood losses, hemoglobin, and hematocrit drop, all possible complications related to TXA were evaluated and compared among groups. The analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc were used for continuous outcome variables and Chi-square test for binary outcome variables.Results:Evident loss in combined group was 574.25 ± 209.8 ml, significantly less than IV (685.4 ± 289.9 ml) and intraarticular group (724.3 ± 246.8 ml). Total loss was similarly least for combined group (930.1 ± 262.2 ml) compared to IV (1208.3 ± 368.8 ml) and intraarticular group (1198.1 ± 356.8 ml). There were no transfusions in combined group compared to five in IV and four in intraarticular group. Combined group also had least hidden losses after surgery. No patients in any group developed symptomatic deep venous thrombosis.Conclusion:Combined administration of drug is most effective way to decrease postoperative bleeding and requirement of transfusion in unilateral TKA without increasing any risk of complications.

The comparative efficacy and safety of topical and intravenous tranexamic acid for reducing perioperative blood loss in Total knee arthroplasty- A randomized controlled non-inferiority trial

BackgroundTotal Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) can be associated with significant perioperative blood loss and blood transfusions. This is a prospective randomised non-inferiority trial comparing intraarticular (IA) and intravenous (IV) routes of administering Tranexamic acid (TXA) with regard to efficacy and safety. MethodsA total of 113 patients who underwent primary unilateral TKA from January to June 2017 randomly received either 1.5g TXA in 100mL normal saline solution (IA group, n=58) or 10mg/kg TXA (IV group, n=55) at 10min before the tourniquet inflation and at tourniquet release. Haemoglobin (Hb) drop on third day (primary outcome), visible blood loss (VBL), hidden blood loss (HBL), total blood loss (TBL), transfusion requirement, incidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), wound complications and renal function derangement (secondary outcomes) were recorded. ResultsThe mean difference in haemoglobin drop between both groups was 0.25g/dL with 90% CI of −0.07 to 0.58. Since the lower bound of 90% CI was above equivalence margin of −0.35, IA group was found to be non-inferior to IV group in terms of Hb drop. The mean difference between both groups of VBL, HBL and TBL were 0.85mL (p value 0.90), −7.9mL (p value 0.90) and −6.2mL (p value 0.93) respectively. Transfusions and wound complications were statistically insignificant. None of the patients had DVT or renal function derangement. ConclusionIA TXA is not inferior to IV TXA with regard to efficacy and safety and may be preferred considering ease of administration and lack of systemic absorption.

The Effect of Corticosteroid Injection Into Rotator Interval for Early Frozen Shoulder: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Corticosteroid injection is a common treatment for frozen shoulder, but controversy still exists regarding the injection site with the best outcome. Hypothesis: To treat the frozen shoulder in the freezing stage with corticosteroid injection, a single injection into the rotator interval (RI) could yield better effects in terms of improvement in pain, passive range of motion (ROM), and function than would an injection into the intra-articular (IA) or subacromial (SA) space. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. Methods: Patients with primary frozen shoulder in the freezing stage were randomized into 3 groups: RI injection, IA injection, or SA injection with corticosteroid. Clinical outcomes were documented at baseline and at 4, 8, and 12 weeks after intervention, including visual analog scale (VAS) for pain; passive ROM measurements, including external rotation, internal rotation, forward flexion, and abduction; and evaluation with the Disability of Arm, Hand, and Shoulder (DASH) score and Constant score. Results: There were no significant differences in the basic properties of the 3 groups (27 in RI group, 24 in IA group, and 26 in SA group) before injection. Improvements in pain VAS, passive ROM, Constant score, and DASH score were faster and significant in the RI group from 4 weeks after injection, followed by those in the IA group. Passive ROM decreased and DASH score did not change significantly in the SA group, although pain VAS and Constant score improved significantly. Conclusion: To treat frozen shoulder in the freezing stage with corticosteroid injection, a single injection into the RI yielded better effects in terms of improvement in pain, passive ROM, and function than did injections into the IA or SA space.

Intra-articular Application is More Effective Than Intravenous Application of Tranexamic Acid in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

BackgroundThe optimal administration route of tranexamic acid (TXA) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and the effect of TXA on hidden blood loss and total blood loss are undetermined. The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of intravenous versus intra-articular application of tranexamic acid in patients undergoing knee arthroplasty. MethodsA total of 150 patients undergoing primary unilateral total knee arthroplasty were randomly distributed to 3 groups (IV, intra-articular, and control group; each 50 patients) and administrated TXA (1 g IV and 50 mL intra-articular saline, 1 g intra-articularly and 50 mL intra-articular saline, and 0 g and 50 mL intra-articular saline, respectively). The amount of total and hidden blood loss (HBL), drainage, transfusion, changes in hemoglobin levels, and complications were recorded. ResultsIntra-articular use of TXA reduced more total blood loss (P = .011) and reduced more total 48 hours drainage volume than IV use of TXA (P < .001). Two patients received transfusion in IV and control group. No deep venous thrombosis or other severe complications had occurred. The HBL volume had no significant difference among the control, IV, and intra-articular groups (708.6 ± 308.2, 651.7 ± 302.9, and 625.2 ± 252.1 mL, respectively; which was 65.6%, 70.8%, and 81.1% of the total loss). ConclusionIntra-articular administration of TXA significantly reduced total blood loss and drainage volume to a greater degree than IV injection in total knee arthroplasty without reduction of HBL.

Periarticular dextrose prolotherapy instead of intra-articular injection for pain and functional improvement in knee osteoarthritis.

BackgroundOsteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disease that can lead to painful and dysfunctional joints. Prolotherapy involves using injections to produce functional restoration of the soft tissues of the joint. Intra-articular injections are controversial because of the introduction of needles into the articular capsule.ObjectivesTo compare the effect of periarticular versus intra-articular prolotherapy on pain and disability in patients with knee OA.Study designRandomized double-blind controlled clinical trial.SettingSingle center, university hospital (Imam Hossein Hospital, Tehran, Iran).MethodsA total of 104 patients with chronic knee OA were enrolled. In the intra-articular group, 8 mL of 10% dextrose and 2 mL of 2% lidocaine were injected. Injections were repeated at 1 and 2 weeks after the first injection. In the periarticular group, 5 mL of 20% dextrose and 5 mL of 1% lidocaine were injected subcutaneously at 4 points in the periarticular area. Pain and disability, as assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), were recorded at each follow-up visit at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 months post-injection.ResultsThe visual analog scale score was significantly lower in the periarticular compared with the intra-articular group at the 2-, 3-, 4-, and 5-month visits but not at 1 month. Morning stiffness and difficulty in rising from sitting were improved in both groups and were not signifi-cantly different in the peri- and intra-articular groups. Pain, joint locking, and limitation scores were all improved in both groups. Difficulty in walking on flat surfaces or climbing stairs, and sitting and standing pain, were all improved in both groups from 1 to 5 months after treatment.LimitationsWOMAC scores are subjective and could be a limitation of the study.ConclusionPeriarticular prolotherapy has comparable effects on pain and disability due to knee OA to intra-articular injections, while avoiding risks of complications.

Comparison of intrathecal versus intra-articular dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to bupivacaine on postoperative pain following knee arthroscopy: a randomized clinical trial.

BackgroundPostoperative pain is a common, distressing symptom following arthroscopic knee surgery. The aim of this study was to compare the potential analgesic effect of dexmedetomidine after intrathecal versus intra-articular administration following arthroscopic knee surgery.MethodsNinety patients undergoing unilateral elective arthroscopic knee surgery were randomly assigned into three groups in a double-blind placebo controlled study. The intrathecal dexmedetomidine group (IT) received an intrathecal block with intrathecal dexmedetomidine, the intra-articular group (IA) received an intrathecal block and intra-articular dexmedetomidine, and the control group received an intrathecal block and intra-articular saline. The primary outcome of our study was postoperative pain as assessed by the visual analogue scale of pain (VAS). Secondary outcomes included the effect of dexmedetomidine on total postoperative analgesic use and time to the first analgesic request, hemodynamics, sedation, postoperative nausea and vomiting, patient satisfaction, and postoperative C-reactive protein (CRP) levels.ResultsDexmedetomidine administration decreased pain scores for 4 h in both the intrathecal and intra-articular groups, compared to only 2 h in the control patient group. Furthermore, there was a significant reduction in pain scores for 6 h in the intra-articular group. The time to the first postoperative analgesia request was longer in the intra-articular group compared to the intrathecal and control groups. The total meperidine requirement was significantly lower in the intra-articular and intrathecal groups than in the control group.ConclusionsBoth intrathecal and intra-articular dexmedetomidine enhanced postoperative analgesia after arthroscopic knee surgery. Less total meperidine was required with intra-articular administration to extend postoperative analgesia to 6 h with hemodynamic stability.

The effects of intra-articular tranexamic acid given intraoperatively and intravenous tranexamic acid given preoperatively on post surgical bleeding and transfusion rate post total knee arthroplasty

Background: Despite the advances in the design and fixation of implants in total knee replacement (TKR). the amount of postoperative bleeding is still an important issue that has not been resolved. This study aimed to measure the effectiveness of various tranexamic acid administration.&#x0D; Methods: This was a randomized controlled trial study, held from August 2014 to February 2016 at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta. Twenty two patients having TKR were divided into three groups: the control group, the tranexamic acid intra-articular-intraoperative group, and the intravenous preoperative group. Intraoperative bleeding, haemoglobin (Hb) level on preoperative to five-day-post-surgery, total drain production, total blood tranfusion needed and the drain removal timing were recorded and compared. Numerical data were analyzed by using parametric and non-parametric test, depended on the normality of the data.&#x0D; Results: The amount of blood transfusion needed in both the intra-articular group (200±SD 100 mL) and the intravenous group (238±SD 53 mL) were significantly different compared to those in the control group (1,016±SD 308.2 mL) (p=0.001). Meanwhile, there was no significant difference between the amount of blood transfusion needed in the intra-articular group and the intravenous group. Total drain production in the intra-articular group (328±SD 193 mL) and intravenous group (391±SD 185 mL) was significantly different compared to the control group (652±SD 150 mL) (p=0.003). No significant difference between the levels of both preoperative and postoperative haemoglobin, the amount of intraoperative bleeding, and the duration of drain usage.&#x0D; Conclusion: Intravenous and intra-articular tranexamic acid effectively decreased transfusion volume and drain production in patients undergoing TKR.

Causes of Aseptic Persistent Pain after Total Knee Arthroplasty

BackgroundPersistent pain after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is dissatisfying to the patient and frustrating to the surgeon. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the aseptic causes and clinical course of intractable pain following TKA.MethodsOf the total 2,534 cases of primary TKA reviewed, 178 cases were classified as having aseptic persistent pain that was not resolved within 1 year after surgery. Except for the cases with periprosthetic fracture (56 knees), 122 cases of aseptic painful TKA were divided into two groups: intra-articular group (83 knees) and extra-articular group (39 knees).ResultsIn the intra-articular group, the main reasons for pain were aseptic loosening (n = 40), polyethylene wear (n = 16), instability (n = 10), recurrent hemarthrosis (n = 5), patellar maltracking (n = 4), tendon ruptures (n = 4), and stiffness (n = 2). In the extraarticular group, 10 knees (25.6%) were found to have nerve entrapment in the spine, 6 knees (15.4%) were found to have hip osteoarthritis or femoral head avascular necrosis. The reasons for persistent knee pain in the remaining 23 knees (59.0%) still remain elusive.ConclusionsPersistent pain after TKA originated from pathology of extra-articular origin in a considerable number of cases in this study. Therefore, it is important to perform thorough preoperative evaluations to reduce pain resulting from extra-articular causes. Furthermore, meticulous surgical procedures and optimal alignment are required to reduce pain of intra-articular origin related to implant wear, instability, and patellar maltracking.

Effects of two different tranexamic acid administration methods on perioperative blood loss in total hip arthroplasty: study protocol for a prospective, open-label, randomized, controlled clinical trial

Background: Reducing perioperative blood loss in total hip arthroplasty is a hot topic for joint surgeons. Both intravenous infusion and intra-articular injection of tranexamic acid significantly reduce perioperative blood loss, blood transfusion volume, and need for blood transfusion in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty. However, differences between the intravenous and intra-articular methods are not clear. This study will evaluate the effects of these two tranexamic acid administration methods on perioperative blood loss in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty. Methods/Design: We are conducting a prospective, single-center, open-label, randomized, controlled clinical trial at the Tengzhou Central People's Hospital, China. Ninety patients undergoing unilateral total hip arthroplasty have been randomized into three groups. In the intravenous infusion group (n = 30), 15 mg/kg tranexamic acid diluted in 100 mL physiological saline was infused intravenously at the beginning of surgery and 20 mL of physiological saline was injected intra-articularly after deep fascia suturing. In the intra-articular injection group (n = 30), 100 mL of physiological saline was infused intravenously at the beginning of surgery and a mixture of 1.5 g tranexamic acid and 20 mL physiological saline was injected intra-articularly after deep fascia suturing. In the control group (n = 30), 100 mL of physiological saline was infused intravenously at the beginning of surgery and 20 mL of physiological saline was injected intra-articularly after deep fascia suturing. The primary outcome is hidden blood loss at 1 and 3 days postoperatively. The secondary outcomes are visible blood loss, need for blood transfusion, and mean blood transfusion volume intraoperatively and on days 1 and 3 postoperatively. Other outcomes are the incidence of adverse events and complications within 3 months of surgery. Discussion: This trial was designed in April 2015. Cases were collected in July 2015. Data analysis will be finished in December 2017. This study is designed to investigate the effects of intravenous infusion versus intra-articular injection of tranexamic acid on perioperative blood loss in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty to determine the more effective mode of administration. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03157401. Ethics: The study protocol has been approved by the Ethics Committee of Tengzhou Central People's Hospital of China, approval number 2015-026. All protocols were in accordance with Declaration of Helsinki, formulated by the World Medical Association. Informed consent: Written informed consent was obtained from all participants.

Prospective Study to compare Intra-articular versus Intravenous Tranexemic Acid in reducing Post-operative Blood Loss in staged bilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty.

The number of total knee arthroplasties (TKA) performed is around two million annually worldwide and this number is expected to increase fivefold by 2025. The most common indication is osteoarthritis of the knee. Blood loss is significant during the post-operative period and blood transfusion when necessary has its own drawbacks. The use of intravenous tranexamic acid has significantly reduced blood loss. We analysed 35 patients who underwent staged bilateral TKA between August 2013 and February 2016 and had administered intra-articular tranexamic acid for one knee and intravenous tranexamic acid for the other knee. The results were analysed based on post-operative blood loss, change in haemoglobin (Hb) level and haematocrit (PCV) and the need for blood transfusion. The average postoperative blood loss was 129.57 ml and 277.71 ml for intra articular group and intravenous group respectively. A control group (no drug or placebo group) with age matched patients (n= 21) was chosen from medical records. The average blood loss in the control group was 493.81 ml. The fall in Hb level and PCV was 0.72 gm/dl and 2.62 % (Intra-articular Group), 1.36 gm/dl and 4.34 % (Intravenous Group) and 2.62 gm/dl and 5.52 % (Control). The number of transfusions were two (Intra-articular Group), five (Intravenous Group) and nine (Control). We conclude that when compared with intravenous route, intra-articular administration has significantly reduced blood loss, Hb level and PCV fall and the rate of blood transfusion.

Preemptive Analgesia in Hip Arthroscopy: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Preemptive Periacetabular or Intra-articular Bupivacaine in Addition to Postoperative Intra-articular Bupivacaine

To evaluate and compare the efficacy of intra-articular and periacetabular blocks for postoperative pain control after hip arthroscopy. Forty-two consecutive patients scheduled for hip arthroscopy were randomized into 2 postoperative pain control groups. One group received preemptive intra-articular 20mL of bupivacaine 0.5% injection, and the second group received preemptive periacetabular 20mL of bupivacaine 0.5% injection. Before closure all patients received an additional dose of 20mL of bupivacaine 0.5% intra-articularly. Data were compared with respect to postoperative pain with visual analog scale (VAS) and analgesic consumption, documented in a pain diary for 2weeks after surgery. Twenty-one patients were treated with intra-articular injection, and 21 patients with peri-acetabular injection. There were no significant differences with regards to patient demographics or surgical procedures. VAS scores recorded during the first 30minutes postoperatively and 18hours after surgery were significantly lower in the periacetabular group compared with in the intra-articular group (0.667 ± 1.49 vs 2.11 ± 2.29; P<.045 and 2.62 ± 2.2 vs 4.79 ± 2.6; P < .009). There were no differences between the groups with regard to analgesic consumption. Periacetabular injection of bupivacaine 0.5% was superior to intra-articular injection in pain reduction after hip arthroscopy at 30minutes and 18hours postoperatively. However, total analgesic consumption over the first 2 postoperative weeks and VAS pain measurements were not significantly affected. Level I, randomized controlled trial.