Primary Unilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty Research Articles

Optimal Handling of the Patella in Tourniquet-Free Total Knee Arthroplasty: Eversion or Lateral Retraction?

ObjectiveTo explore the optimal handling of the patella during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) without the intraoperative application of a tourniquet.MethodsA total of 104 patients undergoing primary unilateral TKA without the intraoperative use of tourniquets from December 2018 to March 2019 in our center were included in this prospective randomized double‐blinded study, including 42 men and 62 women with a mean age of 66.3 ± 7.8 years and a minimum follow‐up of 1 year. Patients were randomly divided into an eversion group (n = 52) and a retraction group (n = 52) based on the intraoperative handling of the patella (eversion or lateral retraction). Primary outcome measures, including the visual analog scale at rest (rVAS) and the visual analog scale in motion (mVAS) for both anterior knee pain and thigh pain, opioid consumption, active range of motion (aROM), passive range of motion (pROM), the time needed for return of the straight‐leg raise (SLR), and 90° knee flexion, were recorded by an independent observer, who also noted secondary outcome measures, including operation time, length of stay (LOS), patella‐related (patellar tilt and baja) and other complications, knee swelling, Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) scores, and the 12‐item Short Form Health Survey (SF‐12) scores.ResultsThere were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of baseline parameters. At 24, 48, and 72 h postoperatively (PO), patients in the eversion group experienced more severe thigh pain than those in the retraction group (24 h: 2.6 ± 0.8 vs 2.2 ± 0.5 [P = 0.003]; 48 h: 2.0 ± 0.5 vs 1.8 ± 0.4 [P = 0.026]; 72 h: 1.1 ± 0.4 vs 0.9 ± 0.5 [P = 0.012], respectively) and consumed more opioids (24 h: 22.3 ± 7.7 vs 15.1 ± 8.9 mg [P < 0.001]; 48 h: 27.3 ± 9.3 vs 21.4 ± 10.5 mg [P = 0.003]; 72 h: 23.1 ± 8.2 vs 19.8 ± 7.6 mg [P = 0.036], respectively), but no significant difference was found in anterior knee pain (both rVAS and mVAS) preoperatively or at 24, 48 or 72 h, 3 weeks, 2 or 6 months, or 1 year PO (P > 0.05). Throughout the 1‐year follow‐up, patients in the retraction group showed significantly better function, including greater aROM and pROM at all time points (P < 0.05) and a shorter period of time needed for return to SLR (1.9 ± 0.7 vs 2.2 ± 0.8 days [P = 0.044]) and 90° knee flexion (1.2 ± 0.7 vs 1.9 ± 0.8 days [P < 0.001]). In addition, no between‐group difference was found in operation time, complication rate, swelling of the knee, or SF‐12 score during the follow‐up period (P > 0.05). The eversion group had a significantly longer LOS (5.61 ± 1.92 vs 4.93 ± 1.45 days [P = 0.044]) and worse HSS score within 2 months PO (3 weeks PO: 77.4 ± 7.6 vs 81.7 ± 7.2 [P = 0.004]; 2 months PO: 85.1 ± 7.2 vs 88.5 ± 6.1 [P = 0.011]), but at the third follow‐up (6 months PO), the HSS score in the two groups became comparable (P > 0.05). No patellar tilt occurred in either group and there was only one case of patellar baja in the eversion group, with no significant between‐group difference (P > 0.05).ConclusionWe recommend lateral retraction rather than eversion for optimal handling of the patella during TKA because the postoperative functional recovery is better and thigh pain is relatively less severe.

Providing Inpatient Mobilization with a Mobility Technician Constrains Cost in Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Since the 2016 implementation of the comprehensive care for joint replacement (CJR) bundled payment model, our institutions have sought to decrease inpatient physical therapy (PT) costs by piloting a mobility technician program (MTP), where mobility technicians (MTs) ambulate postoperative total knee arthroplasty (TKA) patients under the supervision of nursing staff members. MTs are certified medical assistants given specialized gate and ambulation training by the PT department. The aim of this study was to examine the economic and clinical impact of MTs on the primary TKA postoperative pathway. We performed a retrospective review of TKA patients who underwent surgery at our institution between April 2018 and March 2019 and who were postoperatively ambulated by MTs. The control group included patients who had surgery during the same months of the prior year, preceding introduction of MTs to the floor. Inclusion criteria included: unilateral primary TKA for arthritic conditions and conversion to unilateral primary TKA from a previous knee surgery. Minitab Software (State College, PA) was used to perform the statistical analysis. There were 658 patients enrolled in the study group and 1,400 in the control group. The two groups shared similar demographics and an average age of 68 (p = 0.177). The median length of stay (LOS) was 2 days in both groups (p = 0.133) with 90.5% of patients in the study group discharged to home versus 81.5% of patients in the control group (p < 0.001). The ability of MTs to increase patient discharge to home without negatively impacting LOS suggest MTs are valuable both clinically to patients, and economically to the institution. Cost analysis highlighted the substantial cost savings that MTs may create in a bundled payment system. With the well-documented benefits of early ambulation following TKA, we demonstrate how MTs can be an asset to optimizing the care pathway of TKA patients.

Early clinical outcome and learning curve following unilateral primary total knee arthroplasty after introduction of a novel total knee arthroplasty system.

BACKGROUNDNew implants for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are continuously introduced with the proposed benefit of increased performance and improved outcome. Little information exists on how the introduction of a novel arthroplasty implant affects the perioperative and surgical outcome immediately after implementation. AIMTo investigate how surgery-related factors and implant positioning were affected by the introduction of a novel TKA system.METHODSA novel TKA system was introduced at our institution on 30th November 2015. Seventy-five TKAs performed with the Persona TKA immediately following its introduction by 3 different surgeons (25 TKAs/surgeon) were identified as the Introduction Group. Moreover, the latest 25 TKAs performed by each surgeon prior to introduction of the Persona TKA were identified as the Control Group. A Follow-up Group of 25 TKAs/surgeon was identified starting 1-year after the end of the introduction period. Demographics, surgery-related factors and alignment data were recorded, and intergroup differences compared.RESULTSFollowing introduction of the novel implant, Persona TKA was utilized in 69% (71%), 53% (54%), and 45% (75%) of primary TKA procedures by the three surgeons, respectively (Follow-up Group). Mean surgery time was increased by 28% (P < 0.0001) and mean intra-operative blood loss by 25% (P = 0.002) in the Introduction Group, while only the mean surgery time was increased in the Follow-up Group by 18% (P < 0.0001). Overall alignment was similar between the groups apart from femoral flexion (FF) and tibial slope (TS). The number of FF outliers was reduced in the Introduction Group with a more pronounced decrease in the Follow-up Group.CONCLUSIONIntroduction of the new TKA implant increased surgical time and intraoperative blood loss immediately after its introduction. These differences diminished one year after introduction of the new implant. Fewer outliers with respect to FF and TS were seen when using the novel TKA implant. Further studies are needed to investigate if these differences persist over time and correlate with patient reported outcomes.

Risk factors of allogeneic red blood transfusion following enhanced recovery hip and knee arthroplasty

Objective: To Explore the current status and risk factors of perioperative allogenic red blood cell transfusion following enhanced recovery hip and knee joint arthroplasty. Methods: Patients who have taken their primary unilateral total hip and knee arthroplasty (THA, TKA) or simultaneous primary THA were retrospectively included from January, 2019 to December, 2019 in West China Hospital. The baseline characteristics were compared between patients with allogeneic transfusion and those without. And logistic regression were used to analyze the risk factors of perioperative allogeneic red blood cell transfusion. Results: A total of 2 034 patients (2072 arthroplasties) were included, 705 males and 1 329 females, aged (60±24) years. Of all, 1 137 patients received primary THA (38 simultaneous THA), 897 patients received primary unilateral TKA. Eleven (0.54%) patients received allogeneic red blood cell transfusion, and the mean volume was (2.6±1.2) U. Deep venous thrombosis occurred in 2 patients (0.09%) undergoing primary TKA. The transfusion rate in primary THA patients was 0.79% (9/1 137), and 0.22% (2/897) in TKA. Lower preoperative hemoglobin level (P=0.041) and more hematological comorbidities (P=0.005) were detected in transfused patients. And logistic analysis further revealed that preoperative substandard hemoglobin level was the most important risk factor for transfusion (OR=5.663, P=0.018). Conclusions: Under the intervention of enhanced recovery after surgery concept and modern blood management strategies, the transfusion requirement has been significantly reduced following primary joint arthroplasty. Pre-operative hemoglobin level should be an important threshold for perioperative blood management.

Tourniquet use in routine primary total knee arthroplasty is associated with a higher transfusion rate and longer postoperative length of stay: a real-world study

BackgroundIn an enhanced recovery after surgery program, a growing number of orthopedists are reconsidering the necessity of tourniquet use in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, the impact of tourniquet use on transfusion rate and postoperative length of stay (PLOS) in TKA remains controversial. Therefore, we carried out a study to investigate the effect of tourniquet application in routine primary TKA on transfusion rate and PLOS.MethodsWe analyzed data from 6325 patients who underwent primary unilateral TKA and divided them into two groups according to whether a tourniquet was applied during the procedure, and a tourniquet was used in 4902 and not used in 1423. The information for transfusion and PLOS was extracted from patients’ electronic health records, and the data were analyzed with logistic and linear regression analyses.ResultsFollowing TKA, the transfusion rate and PLOS were 14.52% and 7.72 ± 3.54 days, respectively, in the tourniquet group, and 6.47% and 6.44 ± 3.48 days, respectively, in the no-tourniquet group. After adjusting for the different related variables, tourniquet use was significantly correlated with a higher transfusion rate (risk ratio = 1.888, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.449–2.461, P < 0.001) and a longer PLOS (partial regression coefficient (B) = 0.923, 95%CI 0.690–1.156, P < 0.001).ConclusionsOur findings suggested that tourniquet use in routine primary TKA was related to a higher transfusion rate and a longer PLOS. The impact of tourniquet use on transfusion rate and PLOS should be taken into account in clinical practice.

Preoperative Opioid Use Increases the Cost of Care in Total Joint Arthroplasty.

Predictors of financial costs related to total joint arthroplasty (TJA) have become increasingly important becuase payment methods have shifted from fee for service to bundled payments. The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between preoperative opioid use and cost of care in primary TJA. A retrospective study was conducted in Medicare patients who underwent elective unilateral primary total knee or hip arthroplasty between 2015 and 2018. Preoperative opioid usage, comorbidities, length of stay, and demographic information were obtained from chart review. The total episode-of-care (EOC) cost data was obtained from the Centers of Medicare and Medicaid Services based on Bundled Payments for Care Improvement Initiative Model 2, including index hospital and 90-day postacute care costs. Patients were grouped based on preoperative opioid usage. Costs were compared between groups, and multivariate linear regression analyses were performed to analyze whether preoperative opioid usage influenced the cost of TJA care. Analyses were risk-adjusted for patient risk factors, including comorbidities and demographics. A total of 3,211 patients were included in the study. Of the 3,211 TJAs, 569 of 3,211 patients (17.7%) used preoperative opioids, of which 242 (42.5%) only used tramadol. EOC costs were significantly higher for opioid and tramadol users than nonopioid users ($19,229 versus $19,403 versus $17,572, P < 0.001). Multivariate regression predicted that the use of preoperative opioids in TJA was associated with increased EOC costs by $789 for opioid users (95% confidence interval [CI] $559 to $1,019, P < 0.001) and $430 for tramadol users (95% CI $167 to $694, P = 0.001). Total postacute care costs were also increased by 70% for opioid users (95% CI 44% to 102%, P < 0.001) and 48% for tramadol users (95% CI 22% to 80%, P < 0.001). This study demonstrated that preoperative opioid usage was associated with higher cost of care in TJA. Limiting preoperative opioid use for pain management before TJA could contribute to cost savings within a bundled model.

Blood loss in total knee arthroplasty using computer-assisted navigation or 3D-printed patient-specific instruments

Objective: To compare the perioperative blood loss in patients undergoing a total knee arthroplasty (TKA) across three different techniques: computer-assisted navigation surgery (CAS), patient specific instrumentation (PSI) and conventional instrumentation (CI). Methods: Ninety consecutive patients with severe knee osteoarthritis who underwent unilateral primary TKA in Peking University Third Hospital Orthopedics Department from January 2018 to December 2018 were enrolled in this prospective study. The patients were randomly divided into three groups (30 case in each group): CAS-TKA group, PSI-TKA group and CI-TKA group. The study measured intraoperative blood loss, total blood loss, hidden blood loss, decreases of hemoglobin and hematocrit, and the post-TKA blood transfusions in the three groups. One-way ANOVA was used to detect the differences among the cohorts, and LSD was used for the post-hoc test. Results: The overall intraoperative blood loss of all patients was 6 ml (5~8 ml). The mean total blood loss and hidden blood loss in CAS-TKA group, PSI-TKA group and CI-TKA group was (1 147.0±301.8) and (1 140.1±301.9)ml, (1 044.3±454.1) and (1 038.5±454.0)ml, (1 154.0±483.6) and (1 145.3±482.7)ml, respectively; there was no significant differences among the three groups (F=0.639, 0.616, both P>0.05). There were no patients who received allogeneic blood transfusion. There were no significant differences in decrease of hemoglobin and hematocrit among the three groups neither (both P>0.05). Conclusions: Compared with conventional TKA, CAS and PSI does not increase the total blood loss of TKA. However, they both demonstrate a potential benefit in reducing blood loss of TKA.

Use of a Modified Rep Model in Primary Joint Arthroplasty: Lessons Learned.

Orthopedic implant device sales representatives ("reps") can provide intraoperative guidance based on their product knowledge, as part of their many responsibilities. However, for experienced high-volume arthroplasty surgeons, a representative may not be required in the room for most primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) procedures. The goal of this study was to describe the authors' experience with a modified rep model for primary TKA. Between January and December 2017, a total of 100 unilateral primary TKAs were performed with a modified rep model and compared with 100 primary TKAs that were performed before this protocol. The authors adopted 2 additional initiatives to institute this protocol safely: (1) improved education of operating room staff and allocation of responsibilities; and (2) reengineering of the existing surgical trays. No perioperative complications, including readmission, periprosthetic fracture, or infection, occurred in either group. In addition, no difference was found in mean length of stay between the modified rep and conventional cohorts (2.2 and 2.4 days, respectively; P=.49). Mean operating room time was less with the modified rep cohort (102.1 vs 117.8 minutes; P<.001), as was total instrument turnover time in the operating room (13.9 vs 29.7 minutes; P<.0001) and in central sterilization (59.4 vs 126.8 minutes; P<.001). No errors occurred with implant accuracy or trays, and there was no need to change the type of implant with the modified rep model, compared with 6% of trays requiring additional sterilization with the conventional model. The negotiated implant cost with the modified rep model was approximately $2000 less than that for the conventional group. This study found that the modified rep model for primary TKA is safe and has the potential for substantial cost savings. [Orthopedics. 2020;43(6):e538-e542.].

Effect of Intra Articular Tranexamic Acid Use on Post-Operative Blood Loss in Unilateral Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA)

Effect of Intra Articular Tranexamic Acid Use on Post-Operative Blood Loss in Unilateral Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA)

Multiple-dose tranexamic acid for perioperative blood loss in total knee arthroplasty in patients with rheumatoid arthritis：a single-blinded, randomised, parallel-controlled study protocol in China

IntroductionThis clinical trial is designed to evaluate the effect of multiple-dose tranexamic acid (TXA) on perioperative blood loss in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).Methods and analysisA randomised, single-blinded, parallel-controlled study...

Is the Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System Feasible in Bundled Payment for Care Improvement Total Knee Arthroplasty Patients?

BackgroundSeveral bundled payment plans, like the Bundled Payment for Care Improvement (BPCI) initiative for total joint arthroplasty, have been introduced to decrease costs and improve clinical care. Measuring clinical outcomes with efficient, standardized methodologies is essential to determine the relative value of total joint arthroplasty care. We investigated feasibility and responsiveness of the recently developed Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) patients. MethodsWe included patients with preoperative and 1-year PROMIS Physical Function (PF), Pain Interference (PI), and Depression (DEP) scores who received unilateral primary TKA. Burden was assessed using the number of questions and time required for PROMIS completion. The minimum clinically important difference was defined as 5. Floor/ceiling effects were noted if more than 15% of patients responded with the lowest/highest possible score, respectively. Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used to compare categorical data. Analysis of variance was used for PROMIS comparisons. ResultsIn total, 172 knees (54 BPCI) were included. Floor effects were identified for DEP at baseline (non-BPCI) and follow-up (both groups), and for PI at follow-up only (BPCI). Patients required 140 seconds and 16 questions to answer all 3 PROMIS domains. Sixty-seven percent, 60%, and 44% of knees achieved minimum clinically important difference in PI, PF, and DEP scores respectively, with no significant difference between groups. The BPCI cohort was older (P < .001) with a higher American Society of Anesthesiologists score (P = .028). There were no significant differences in scores between BPCI and non-BPCI patients. ConclusionPROMIS is feasible and time-efficient in BPCI patients undergoing primary TKA. There were no significant differences in outcomes between BPCI and non-BPCI knees. Level of EvidenceLevel III.

Reduction of Opioids Prescribed Upon Discharge After Total Knee Arthroplasty Significantly Reduces Consumption: A Prospective Study Comparing Two States

BackgroundOpioids prescribed for acute pain after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) play a contributing role in the number of opioid pills in circulation. At the height of an opioid epidemic in the United States, opioids are increasingly diverted, misused, and abused. Therefore, many states have enacted narcotic regulations in an attempt to curb opioid diversion and misuse. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of stricter state prescribing regulations on opioid consumption following TKA. MethodsIn total, 165 opioid-naive patients undergoing primary unilateral TKA at a single institution with a standardized perioperative pain protocol were reviewed. Seventy-one patients (group 1) resided in a state with strict opioid regulations that limit the initial number of pills dispensed and refills, whereas 92 patients (group 2) resided in another state without quantity and refill regulations. Patient demographics were similar between the 2 groups. Mean age was 64 and mean body mass index was 32 kg/m2. Opioid consumption, quantity, and refill patterns were collected for 6 weeks following surgery. ResultsThe average oral morphine equivalents consumed during the 6 weeks postsurgery were significantly lower in group 1 at 446.3 ± 266.3 mg (range 10-992) compared to group 2 at 622.6 ± 313.7 mg (range 20-1416) (P < .001). The average oral morphine equivalent corresponds to 60 tablets of 5 mg oxycodone per patient in group 1 vs 84 tablets per patient in group 2. Fifty-nine (83%) patients in group 1 had stopped taking opioids within 6 weeks of surgery compared to 59 (64%) in group 2 (P = .04). ConclusionBased on our results, the institution of state regulations aimed at decreasing the quantity and refills of postoperative opioids led patients to consume less opioids following TKA. Many patients are prescribed more opioids than they require which increases their consumption and can increase the risk for diversion, addiction, and misuse. Level of EvidenceLevel III; retrospective comparative cohort study.

Preoperative Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy Improves Postoperative Pain and Reduces Opioid Consumption After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective Comparative Study.

Pain is a therapeutic challenge after total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and it could lead to the overuse of opioids. Few methodologically robust clinical studies have been performed to assess the effectiveness of osteopathic manipulative therapy (OMTh; manipulative care performed by non-US-trained osteopaths) for postsurgical pain. To evaluate the effectiveness of standardized preoperative OMTh on early postoperative pain and opioid consumption after TKA. This comparative, nonrandomized study took place from 2013 to 2015 and included patients who had primary unilateral TKA for osteoarthritis in a knee that had not undergone any previous surgery. Patients were divided into 2 consecutive groups: 1 group received traditional preoperative management, and the other group received associated preoperative OMTh (general OMTh [rhythmic mobilization of all the body joints, from the ankles to the skull, using long-lever manipulation] and myofascial relaxation). The primary evaluation criterion was knee pain at rest 1 month after surgery: 0 (no pain) to 100 (the worst imaginable pain). The secondary evaluation criteria were: (1) knee pain while walking 1 month after surgery, (2) average weekly knee pain during the first month after surgery, (3) the presence of night pain and the consumption of sleeping pills and opioids or morphine at least once per week, (4) the International Knee Society scores and the Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis index at postoperative 6 months and 1 year. The number of patients needed for a superiority trial was determined. No eligible patient refused OMTh when proposed. Seventy patients were evaluated (mean [SD] age, 75 [8] years; 47 women and 23 men). The 2 treatment groups contained 35 patients each. At postoperative month 1, the OMTh group had significantly less pain at rest (mean [SD], 6.8 [6] vs 20.9 [17.3]; P=.00001) and while walking (7.9 [9.4] vs 23.5 [20.6]; P=.0001) compared with the group that received traditional preoperative management. The consumption of opioids during the first postoperative week was significantly lower in the OMTh group (P=.0001). No statistically significant difference was found in the International Knee Society or Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis scores between the 2 groups at 6 months and 1 year of follow-up. Standardized preoperative OMTh was found to be effective in reducing pain in the first month after TKA for osteoarthritis and significantly reduced opioid consumption during the first postoperative week.

The long-term impact of preoperative psychological distress on functional outcomes, quality of life, and patient satisfaction after total knee arthroplasty

While patients with psychological distress have poorer short-term outcomes after total knee arthroplasty (TKA), their longer-term function is unknown. We aimed to 1) assess the influence of preoperative mental health status on long-term functional outcomes, quality of life, and patient satisfaction; and 2) analyze the change in mental health after TKA, in a cohort of patients with no history of mental health disorder, with a minimum of ten years' follow-up. Prospectively collected data of 122 patients undergoing primary unilateral TKA in 2006 were reviewed. Patients were assessed pre- and postoperatively at two and ten years using the Knee Society Knee Score (KSKS) and Function Score (KSFS); Oxford Knee Score (OKS); and the Mental (MCS) and Physical Component Summary (PCS) which were derived from the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey questionnaire (SF-36). Patients were stratified into those with psychological distress (MCS < 50, n = 51) and those without (MCS ≥ 50, n = 71). Multiple regression was used to control for age, sex, BMI, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), and baseline scores. The rate of expectation fulfilment and satisfaction was compared between patients with low and high MCS. There was no difference in the mean KSKS, KSFS, OKS, and SF-36 PCS at two years or ten years after TKA. Equal proportions of patients in each group attained the minimal clinically important difference for each score. Psychologically distressed patients had a comparable rate of satisfaction (91.8% (47/51) vs 97.1% (69/71); p = 0.193) and fulfilment of expectations (89.8% vs 97.1%; p = 0.094). The proportion of distressed patients declined from 41.8% preoperatively to 29.8% at final follow-up (p = 0.021), and their mean SF-36 MCS improved by 10.4 points (p < 0.001). Patients with poor mental health undergoing TKA may experience long-term improvements in function and quality of life that are comparable to those experienced by their non-distressed counterparts. These patients also achieved a similar rate of satisfaction and expectation fulfilment. Undergoing TKA was associated with improvements in mental health in distressed patients, although this effect may be due to residual confounding. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(7):845-851.

Scalpel can achieve better clinical outcomes compared with electric cautery in primary total knee arthroplasty: a comparison study

BackgroundWhether using the scalpel can provide better and faster recovery after the primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is still controversial. The aim of this research was to compare the clinical outcomes of using the scalpel and the electric cautery in primary TKA.MethodsFrom January 2016 to December 2017, a retrospective cohort study was conducted in 313 patients who underwent unilateral primary TKA by using the scalpel (group S). During this period, we selected 313 patients who underwent unilateral primary TKA by using the electric cautery (group E) for comparison. The tourniquet time, operative time, blood loss, wound complications, visual analog score for pain, range of motion, Knee Society Score were assessed between the two groups. The Forgotten Joint Score was used to analyze the ability to forget the joint.ResultsThere were no significant differences in tourniquet time, operative time, blood loss between the two groups (p > 0.05). In the group S, the visual analog score for pain, range of motion, Knee Society Score were found better results at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 12 months and 24 months after surgery (p < 0.05). Besides, during the follow-up period, the Forgotten Joint Score was significantly higher compared with group E (p < 0.05).ConclusionIn this research, the patients who underwent TKA by using the scalpel could achieve better clinical outcomes. In addition, if forgotten artificial joint after TKA was the final goal, the patients who underwent TKA by using the scalpel would acquire better quality of life.

Physical Performance Correlates with Self-Reported Physical Function and Quality of Life in Patients at 3 Months after Total Knee Arthroplasty.

BackgroundAlthough total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is an effective treatment for knee osteoarthritis, assessment of postoperative outcomes remains unclear. This study aimed to identify postoperative physical performance factors that are correlated with self-reported physical function and quality of life (QoL) at 3 months after unilateral TKA.MethodsIn total, 158 patients who underwent unilateral primary TKA completed performance-based physical function tests at 3 months after surgery, including Stair Climbing Tests (SCT), 6-Minute Walk Tests (6MWT), Timed Up and Go tests (TUG), and instrumental gait analysis. We also measured the isometric knee flexor and extensor strengths of the operated and non-operated knees. Self-reported physical function and QoL were assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and the Euro-QoL Five Dimensions (EQ-5D) questionnaire, respectively.ResultsBivariate analyses showed that WOMAC function and EQ-5D were correlated with age, other self-reported measures, and performance-based measures. The WOMAC pain (r=0.71, p<0.001) showed a high positive correlation. While the EQ-5D (r=-0.7, p<0.001) showed a highly negative correlation with WOMAC function, WOMAC pain (r=-0.67, p<0.001) showed a moderately negative correlation with EQ-5D. In multivariate linear regression analyses, WOMAC pain, peak torque of the flexor of the non-operated knee, and reductions in extensor and stride length were associated with self-reported physical function, whereas WOMAC pain, SCT ascent, and cadence were associated with postoperative QoL.ConclusionsPhysical performance factors were significantly associated with self-reported physical function and QoL in patients at 3 months after unilateral TKA. These findings suggest that performance-based physical function could be used to assess outcomes after TKA.

Practice Makes Perfect: Bundled Payment Models for 90-Day Total Knee Arthroplasty Episodes

Commentary In this article, Schilling et al. provide a proper and elegant analysis of the variation in payments and resource utilization for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) immediately prior to the April 2016 implementation of the U.S. Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement (CJR) bundled payment program, which was mandatory at the time of the study. Using the 100% sample of Medicare Part A claims data for this study, the authors included all elective unilateral primary TKAs performed in patients who were ≥65 years of age between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2016. One methodological concern is a lack of description of the methods used to handle missing data, negative costs, and zero costs that exist with claims data. The inclusion of such data could impact the results, even with this large sample size of >700,000 TKAs. Regardless, this article contributes very good information to the body of knowledge of alternate payment models, and the authors even suggest that the risk-adjusted model could be adopted by hospitals to benchmark their performance in such models. However, questions remain about the degree to which the CJR program was responsible for the results and whether providers will successfully sustain these improvements. Schilling et al. illustrate that resource utilization, measured by Medicare Part A payments, length of hospital stay, readmissions, and inpatient post-acute care utilization, for Medicare patients undergoing TKA decreased nationally from 2014 to 2016. Therefore, these trends in decreased spending and resource utilization began prior to April 2016 when the CJR model was implemented. The CJR model was implemented in a time when other value-based initiatives were impacting TKA care redesign, particularly the Bundled Payments for Care Improvement (BPCI) program, which began in 2013 and broadly influenced utilization rates in participating markets1,2. Furthermore, the early results of BPCI Advanced suggest that retrospective shared savings models such as CJR and BPCI create a floor in market pricing, after which incentives become too low to elicit participation1-3. Although the CJR model participation was initially mandatory, voluntary participation continues through December 2020. Early evaluations have suggested that the CJR model was somewhat successful. Barnett et al. reported a modest 3% decrease in spending with no significant changes in postoperative complications4. It is reasonable to posit that the gradual transition from a fee-for-service payment model to a value-based care model impacted the decrease that Schilling et al. report. Although payment reform has been underway since 1983, the first bundled payment model for orthopaedics began in 2009 with the Acute Care Episode (ACE) program5. The testing of this model was narrow in scope, with just 5 hospitals participating5. In 2013, the Medicare BPCI initiative began, with >1,200 participating entities in July 20183. The BPCI initiative substantially broadened the scope to include physician groups and post-acute facilities, in addition to hospitals. Most participants chose a retrospective shared savings model that focused on reducing post-acute utilization, which drove down the mean episode costs in participating markets, without degradation in outcomes. This had 2 important effects: (1) early participants developed best practices for the BPCI program that the CJR program participants were able to replicate to perform well with respect to all shared savings, and (2) strong performance in the BPCI program lowered the mean target spending for Medicare nationally for this procedure, thus reducing the opportunity for further shared savings in subsequent programs in a given market. There was an initial 16% decrease in participants just before the March 1, 2019, deadline to enroll in the BPCI Advanced program6. Presumably, this is because institutions and providers cannot lower costs and readmissions sufficiently more to warrant participation. The time periods of the BPCI and CJR programs overlapped and both included Medicare patients2,3. Therefore, the trend in the improved value of TKA illustrated by Schilling et al. includes the successful impacts of the BPCI program. The CJR program began in April 2016 and, at the time, it was mandatory for total joint replacement unless providers were participating in the BPCI program, which began in 20132,3. The design of the CJR bundled payment model was informed by the BPCI bundled payment model; however, physician groups could be episode initiators with the BPCI program but not with the CJR program. Regardless, the effects of the BPCI model are present in the data used in this study. This does not negate the importance and utility of this study by Schilling et al. to serve as a benchmark for future bundled payment models that will include procedure-based bundles.

Prevalence of idiopathically elevated ESR and CRP in patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty as a function of body mass index

BackgroundErythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) are commonly used inflammatory markers utilized to aid in the diagnosis of periprosthetic infection (PJI). Patients with obesity, however, are known to have elevated baseline levels of these inflammatory markers. Therefore, this retrospective study aimed to determine the relationship between elevated ESR and CRP and body mass index (BMI) in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). In doing so, physicians can better determine whether BMI should be taken into account when evaluating the prognostic value of elevated preoperative ESR and CRP levels for risk of PJI in primary TKA patients. MethodsThis is a retrospective case series of 181 patients who had undergone primary TKA at a single institution. Patients undergoing primary unilateral TKA were eligible unless they had undergone previous TKA, contralateral knee symptoms, or elevated white blood cell (WBC) count. A linear regression model was utilized to demonstrate the relationship between proportions of patients with elevated biomarker values and categories of BMI. Analysis of variance and independent two-sample t-tests were utilized to assess differences in mean ESR, CRP, and WBC levels between the “healthy patients” and “patients with comorbidities” subgroups within each BMI category. ResultsEligible patients (n = 181) were stratified by BMI category. Elevated ESR was associated significantly with BMI (ESR: r2 = 0.89, P < 0.001) unlike elevated CRP (r2 = 0.82, P = 0.133) and WBC count (r2 = .01; P = .626). No statistically significant differences in ESR values and WBC count between the “healthy patients” versus “patients with comorbidities” were demonstrated within any BMI category. In patients of normal weight (BMI 20–25 kg/m2), “healthy patients” had a statistically significantly higher mean CRP level than “patients with comorbidities” (1.73 mg/L vs. 0.70 mg/L, P < 0.001). There were no other statistically significant differences in mean CRP levels by health status. ConclusionCaution is advised when utilizing ESR and CRP to diagnose periprosthetic joint infection without considering BMI given that increasing preoperative levels of ESR and CRP are correlated with higher BMI.

HTX-011 Reduced Pain and Opioid Use After Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty: Results of a Randomized Phase 2b Trial

BackgroundHTX-011 is an extended-release, dual-acting local anesthetic consisting of bupivacaine and low-dose meloxicam in a novel polymer that is administered by needle-free application during surgery. The active ingredients are released from the polymer by controlled diffusion over 72 hours. MethodsThis phase 2b, double-blind, placebo-controlled and active-controlled trial enrolled patients undergoing primary unilateral total knee arthroplasty under general anesthesia. Two hundred thirty-two patients were randomized into 4 groups: HTX-011 400 mg bupivacaine/12 mg meloxicam, applied without a needle into the surgical site, the same dose of HTX-011 with a separate 50 mg ropivacaine injection into the posterior capsule, bupivacaine hydrochloride (HCl) 125 mg injection, and saline placebo injection. Only opioids were permitted for postoperative pain rescue. Primary and key secondary endpoints were mean area under the curve of pain intensity scores over 48 hours and 72 hours, respectively, for HTX-011 groups vs placebo. ResultsBoth HTX-011 groups had significantly reduced mean pain intensity vs placebo through 48 and 72 hours (both P < .001). Ropivacaine added a small initial benefit in the first 12 hours. Both HTX-011 groups also had decreased mean pain intensity vs bupivacaine HCl alone through 48 and 72 hours (P < .05). The HTX-011 groups had significantly earlier discharge readiness along with lower opioid consumption through 72 hours. HTX-011 alone or with ropivacaine was well-tolerated with a safety profile similar to controls. ConclusionNeedle-free application of HTX-011 400 mg bupivacaine/12 mg meloxicam provided superior pain reduction through 72 hours after total knee arthroplasty compared with placebo and bupivacaine HCl alone.

Magnesium Sulfate Combined with a Levobupivacaine Periarticular Cocktail for Analgesia in the Early Postoperative Period after Total Knee Arthroplasty.

This study aimed to evaluate the analgesic effect of magnesium sulfate combined with a levobupivacaine periarticular cocktail in the early postoperative period after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). A total of 60 patients who underwent primary unilateral TKA in our department from March 2018 to May 2019 were prospectively selected and randomly divided into the trial group (30 patients with 20 mL of magnesium sulfate 250 mg + levobupivacaine 50 mg + triamcinolone 25 mg + 0.9% normal saline) and the control group (30 patients with 20 mL of levobupivacaine 50 mg + triamcinolone 25 mg + 0.9% normal saline). Visual analog scale (VAS) scores at 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours postoperatively during rest; VAS scores at 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours postoperatively during motion; the time required to reach 30 degrees straight leg elevation and 60 degrees active knee flexion; and the analgesia pump dosage at 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours postoperatively were recorded. Magnesium sulfate combined with levobupivacaine injection around the knee joint can significantly prolong the time of postoperative analgesia, significantly reduce the use of postoperative analgesics, and effectively alleviate early postoperative pain after TKA.