Use Of Total Hip Arthroplasty Research Articles

Registration in the supine position improve the accuracy of cup placement in total hip arthroplasty using a portable navigation system

Portable navigation systems have been developed for use in total hip arthroplasty (THA) in recent years. Although intraoperative registration in the lateral decubitus position or the supine position is need to create the three-dimensional coordinate system, it is not clear which position is appropriate. The purpose of this study was to assess the accuracy of cup placement in primary THA in the lateral decubitus position using an image-free handheld navigation device with registration in the lateral decubitus or the supine position, and clarify which position is appropriate. This retrospective study included 129 consecutive cementless THAs performed using an image-free handheld navigation device in the lateral decubitus position. Registration in the first 68 hips was performed in the lateral decubitus position and the last 61 hips was performed in the supine position. Postoperative cup radiographic inclination and radiographic anteversion were assessed, and the accuracy was compared between the two groups. The mean absolute errors of the postoperative measured inclination and anteversion from the target angles were 3.9° ± 2.2° and 4.8° ± 3.5° in the lateral group and 2.9° ± 2.7° and 3.2° ± 2.7° in the supine group (p < 0.05). The percentage of cups inside Lewinnek’s safe zone was 94% in the lateral group and 95% in the supine group (ns). The mean absolute values of navigation error in inclination and anteversion were 3.1° ± 2.1° and 4.2° ± 2.8° in the lateral group and 2.3° ± 2.0° and 3.1° ± 2.4° in the supine group (p < 0.05 and p < 0.05). Registration in the supine position improved the accuracy of cup insertion compared with the lateral decubitus position in THA using an image-free handheld navigation device in the lateral decubitus position.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is an independent risk factor for increased opioid use in total hip arthroplasty: A retrospective PearlDiver study

BackgroundTotal hip arthroplasty (THA) has become an incredibly common procedure due to its’ predictability and high success rate. The success of surgery is related to strict indications and careful optimization of medical comorbidities to decrease risk and improve outcomes. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has been associated with increased medical and surgical complications. A regulatory focus on opioid utilization does not usually consider COPD as a risk factor, but limited research exists on the impact of COPD on outcomes and risks after THA. MethodsRetrospective all-inclusive database analysis of Medicare patients who had undergone THA between 2007 and 2017 included in the PearlDiver Database were studied. Postoperative opioid usage was examined at 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12 months, along with surgical infection, implant complications, and revisions. Post-operative complications within 30 days, either medical or implant related, were identified. Controlling for comorbidities, age, and sex, odds ratios were calculated using multivariable logistic regression with a significant α value of 0.05. ResultsCOPD patients had significantly higher rates of opioid usage postoperatively. COPD patients also had an increased rate of readmissions, medical/implant complications, and revision surgeries. DiscussionThis is the only study raising concern regarding opioid use in COPD patients after total hip arthroplasty, which may be critical considering the associated respiratory depression further exacerbating the COPD. Considering the evidence of poor outcomes associated with COPD in arthroplasty, appropriately screening for COPD and counseling or planning for post-operative pain control and complications is paramount.

Contemporary posterior surgical approach with standard cemented total hip arthroplasty for femoral neck fracture in patients of age 60 years and older: Still a safe option?

PurposeThe ideal operative treatment of displaced intracapsular femoral neck fractures in the active elderly is contentious. Recent literature favours a better outcome with the use of total hip arthroplasty (THA). Dislocation remains a major concern with THA, especially when a posterior approach is used. More recently, the concept of dual mobility cups is being promoted to avoid dislocations. The aim of the present study was to look at the outcomes of cemented THA utilising the posterior approach for these patients using a 28 ​mm (mm) femoral head. MethodsThis study retrospectively analysed the outcome of 108 primary cemented THA, performed by specialist hip surgeons, using a posterior approach with robust soft tissue repair in patients of age 60 years and older presenting with displaced intra capsular femoral neck fractures using a 28 ​mm head. ResultAt mean follow-up of 5.2 years (2.0–10.5 years), there were 2 dislocations (1.9%). One underwent manipulation under anaesthesia and the other had application of a posterior lip augmentation device. No other revisions were performed during the follow up period. The 30 day mortality was nil and no post-operative deep infections. Hundred patients (93%) at 1 year follow-up were independently mobilising. ConclusionsWith optimal patient selection, an excellent outcome can be achieved for patients with displaced femoral neck fractures using the standard cemented THA via the posterior approach with 28 ​mm head. A robust soft tissue repair and a specialist hip surgeon is recommended for this cohort of patients.

Trends in the Use of Total Hip Arthroplasty in the Pediatric Population: A Review of the Literature.

Current literature shows that the utilization of total hip arthroplasty (THA) to address pediatric hip pathology has seen a significant rise worldwide in recent decades. However, performing THA in pediatric patients presents unique challenges due to their increased activity levels, varying skeletal maturity, and diverse medical conditions. These challenges have relegated THA to a secondary option for young patients. Nonetheless, despite these difficulties, recent studies have demonstrated a growing prevalence of THA in pediatrics. Consequently, there is an urgent need for a comprehensive review of the existing literature on this topic. In this study, we examined large database and single-institution studies involving pediatric patients aged 21 years and under who underwent THA. The primary indications for THA in this population were osteoarthritis, osteonecrosis, and inflammatory arthritis. To ensure informed decision-making for pediatric patients, it is crucial to gather consolidated information on trends and outcomes related to THA indications. This review aims to provide insights into these trends and facilitate better decision-making for the treatment of pediatric patients.

Otto Aufranc Award: Intraosseous Vancomycin in Total Hip Arthroplasty — Superior Tissue Concentrations and Improved Efficiency

BackgroundLiterature shows that intraosseous (IO) infusions are capable of providing increased local concentrations compared to those administered via intravenous (IV) access. Successes while using the technique for antibiotic prophylaxis administration in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) prompted consideration for use in total hip arthroplasty (THA) however; no study exists for the use of IO vancomycin in THA. MethodsThis single-blinded randomized control trial was performed from December 2020 to May 2022. Twenty patients were randomized into 1 of 2 groups: IV vancomycin (15 mg/kg) given routinely, or IO vancomycin (500 mg/100cc of NS) injected into the greater trochanter during incision. Serum vancomycin levels were collected at incision and closure. Soft tissue vancomycin levels were taken from the gluteus maximus (at start and end of case), and acetabular pulvinar tissue. Bone vancomycin levels were taken from the femoral head, acetabular reamings, and intramedullary bone. Adverse local/systemic reactions, 30-day complications, and 90-day complications were also tracked. ResultsA statistically significant reduction in serum vancomycin levels was seen when comparing IO to IV vancomycin at both the start and at the end of the procedure. All local tissue samples had higher concentrations of vancomycin in the IO group. Statistically significant increases were present within the acetabular bone reamings, and approached significance in intramedullary femoral bone. ConclusionThis study demonstrates the utility of IO vancomycin in primary THA with increased local tissue and decreased systemic concentrations. With positive findings in an area without tourniquet use, IO may be considered for antibiotic delivery for alternative procedures.

Total hip arthroplasty versus hemiarthroplasty for treatment of femoral neck fractures : a population-based analysis of practice variation in Ontario, Canada.

This study aimed to describe practice variation in the use of total hip arthroplasty (THA) for older patients with femoral neck fracture and to determine the association between patient, surgeon, and institution factors and treatment with THA. We performed a cross-sectional analysis of 49,597 patients aged 60 years and older from Ontario, Canada, who underwent hemiarthroplasty or THA for femoral neck fracture between 2002 and 2017. This population-based study used routinely collected healthcare databases linked through ICES (formerly known as the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences). Multilevel logistic regression modelling was used to quantify the association between patient, surgeon, and institution-level variables and whether patients were treated with THA. Variance partition coefficient and median odds ratios were used to estimate the variation attributable to higher-level variables and the magnitude of effect of higher-level variables, respectively. Over the study period, 9.4% of patients (n = 4,638) were treated with THA. Patient factors associated with higher likelihood of treatment by THA included: younger age, male sex, and diagnosis with rheumatoid arthritis. Long-term care residence, use of home care services prior to hip fracture, diagnosis of dementia, higher comorbidity burden, and the most marginalized group were negatively associated with treatment by THA. Treating surgeon and institution accounted for 54.2% and 17.8% of the total variation in treatment with THA, respectively. Surgeon volume of THA procedures in the 365 days prior to surgery was the strongest higher-level predictor of treatment with THA. Specific treating surgeons and institutions still accounted for significant proportions of the variability in treatment with THA (40.3% and 19.5% of total observed variation, respectively) after controlling for available patient, surgeon, and institution-level variables. The strongest predictors for treatment of patients with femoral neck fracture with THA were patient age, treating surgeon, and treating institution. This practice variation highlights differential access to care for patients.Cite this article: Bone Joint J2023;105-B(2):180-189.

Comparing Outcomes of Total Hip Arthroplasty for Displaced Neck of Femur Fractures in Elderly Patients Utilizing Dual Mobility Cups and Conventional Implants: A Single Center Retrospective Study of 129 Patients.

Studies comparing the use of total hip arthroplasty (THA) with conventional implants and hemiarthroplasty for displaced femoral neck fractures (DFNF) have reported better patient satisfaction scores and outcomes in the former, but also significant dislocation rates (6.9-13%).The total hip arthroplasty with dual mobility cup (THA-DMC) design is mechanically proven to increase the hip range of motion and jump distance to dislocation relative to conventional implants. Despite its potential benefit, clinical studies analyzing the use of THA-DMC in the treatment of DFNF in comparison to conventional THA within the Asian population are still limited. Our study aims to compare the rate of complications and functional outcomes between the 2 implants in the treatment of DFNF. This was a retrospective cohort study conducted in a single tertiary care institution. From January 2015 to May 2020, data from 129 consecutive patients who satisfied the inclusion criteria and underwent either a THA or THA-DMC for DFNF were collected and divided into 2 groups. All patients received a standardized post-operative treatment and follow-up regime. Both groups of patients were assessed for post-operative complications such as dislocation, peri-prosthetic fractures, surgical site infections, medical complications. Their functional outcomes as well as patient-reported outcome scores were also assessed via the SF-36 score and Oxford hip score questionnaires at 6months and 1year. A total of 42 patients with dual mobility implants and 87 patients with conventional implants were recruited. There was no dislocation in the THA-DMC group while there were 4 cases (4/87, 4.6%) of dislocation in the THA group. Regarding post-operative function, both groups had comparable functional outcomes. There were no statistically significant differences between the patient-reported outcome scores (Oxford hip score and SF-36) at 6months and 1year. We report promising short-term outcomes utilizing dual mobility implants in total hip arthroplasty for the treatment of DFNFs.

Effect of Tranexamic Acid and Cell Salvage System Use in Total Hip Arthroplasty on Allogeneic Blood Transfusion and Hospital Costs in Geriatric Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Effect of Tranexamic Acid and Cell Salvage System Use in Total Hip Arthroplasty on Allogeneic Blood Transfusion and Hospital Costs in Geriatric Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Tantalum Versus Titanium Acetabular Cups in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty: Current Concept and a Review of the Current Literature.

Primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) is becoming an increasingly popular and efficacious medical procedure. There have been a number of studies evaluating tantalum acetabular cups compared with the conventional titanium acetabular cups for use in total hip arthroplasties. We conducted a systematic review and summarize clinical studies comparing tantalum acetabular cups with the conventional titanium acetabular cups for use in primary total hip arthroplasties. A literature search was performed to find all relevant clinical studies until March 2020, which then underwent a further selection criteria. The inclusion criteria was set as follows: Reporting on human patients undergoing primary total hip arthroplasty; Direct comparison between tantalum acetabular cups with conventional titanium acetabular cups for use in primary total hip arthroplasty; Radiological evaluation (cup migration, osteointegration); Clinical (functional scores, need for subsequent revision, patient-reported outcomes; Post-operative complications; Reporting findings in the English Language. After a thorough search a total of six studies were included in the review. The primary outcome measures were clinical outcomes, implant migration, change in bone mineral density and rate of revision and infection. Tantalum is superior to titanium with regards to fewer radiolucencies, 100% survivorship at 12 years post-operatively, improved long-term implant osteointegration and survivorship as well as decreasing osteolysis and mechanical loosening. There has been no significant difference in radioisometric analysis, bone mineral density or Harris Hip Score. Revision and infection rates were found to be significantly lower in tantalum group at 10 years from pooled data of national joint registry (England and Wales), while it was found to be higher in the same at 9 years from pooled data of Swedish and Australian registry although this is not statistically significant. The use of tantalum should be reserved for cases of high risk of failure or mechanical loosening, where failure of a contralateral joint occurred. The use of Tantalum carries lower risk of failure and infection. Further studies with longer follow-up would be useful in drawing further conclusions.

Comparison between outcomes of small head and large head prosthesis use in total hip arthroplasty

Comparison between outcomes of small head and large head prosthesis use in total hip arthroplasty

Use of Total Hip Arthroplasty in Patients Under 21 Years Old: A US Population Analysis.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate trends in the use of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in the United States in patients under 21 years of age. Specifically, we examined the frequency of THA in this patient population over the past 2 decades, the epidemiologic characteristics of patients under 21 who underwent THA, and the characteristics of the hospitals where these procedures were performed. We retrospectively reviewed the Kids' Inpatient Database, an inpatient US national weighted sample of hospital admissions in patients under 21 from approximately 4200 hospitals in 46 states. We queried the database using Current Procedural Terminology codes for elective and non-elective primary THA for the years 2000-2016. We utilized the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision and International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision codes to determine primary diagnoses. The weighted total number of THAs performed in patients under 21 in the Kids' Inpatient Database increased from 347 in 2000 to 551 in 2016. The most common diagnoses were osteonecrosis, osteoarthritis, and inflammatory arthritis. The frequency of THA for osteonecrosis increased from 24% in 2000 to 38% in 2016, while the frequency of THA for inflammatory arthritis decreased from 27% in 2000 to 4% in2016. The number of THAs in patients under 21 in the United States has increased over the past 2 decades and these procedures are increasingly performed in urban teaching hospitals. The decrease in THA for inflammatory arthritis in this population likely reflects improvements in medical management during the study period.

Surgical management of avascular necrosis of femoral head in young adults treated with uncemented total hip replacement

&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background: &lt;/strong&gt;Normal hip joint is subjected to many stresses during daily activities performed by an individual. Since it is one of the major weight bearing joints of the body, its normal function is necessary for daily activities. Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head is one of the common causes of painful hip in a young adult. Core decompression, fibular sturt graft can be considered in early stages, total hip arthroplasty in later stages of AVN of femoral head.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; This is a retrospective study of 30 patients following uncemented total hip replacement, who were operated between August 2017 and March 2020 at MNR medical college and hospital, Sangareddy. They were followed up for a minimum period of 1 year and evaluated using Harris hip scoring system. Harris hip score is designed specifically for measuring functional outcomes in hip arthroplasty.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results: &lt;/strong&gt;There was a significant improvement in function as measured with the Harris hip score. The overall preoperative Harris hip score was 43, which remarkably improved to 89 postoperatively. The results observed, showed that all patients had good to excellent results, (Harris hip score ≥0) thus showing a good degree of pain relief, improvement in function and range of motion.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusions: &lt;/strong&gt;Although the use of total hip arthroplasty in young patients will more likely necessitate future revision surgery, the consistent relief of pain and good functional results have made this procedure an attractive treatment choice for the debilitating arthritis resulting from osteonecrosis of the femoral head. &lt;/p&gt;

Fixation and Implant Retention of Extracapsular Femoral Neck Periprosthetic Fractures Around Hip Resurfacing Arthroplasty - A Case Series.

Background:Extracapsular femoral neck fractures in the presence of a resurfacing hip arthroplasty (RHA) appear to be independent of suboptimal technique during the initial implantation of the RHA and present with a similar etiology as native hip fractures – that is, a fragility fracture related to pathological or age-related osteoporosis, as a consequence of trauma. In the presence of a well-fixed and previously well-functioning RHA, the options for management include revision arthroplasty or open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). In the absence of loosening through mechanisms of wear, infection, metallosis, or suboptimal prosthesis positioning, many authors have advocated ORIF with implant retention. However, there is often debate regarding the use of total hip arthroplasty in these casesCase Series:The authors conducted a thorough assessment of the literature followed by a retrospective review of outcomes for three patients treated by ORIF with implant retention for extracapsular femoral neck fractures around a RHA, using a standardized technique. All patients were independently mobile and active with well-fixed and well-functioning RHAs before the date of injury. All patients suffered low-energy trauma resulting in the fracture. There were no intraoperative or perioperative complications. All patients achieved full weight-bearing status and independent mobility. Two patients achieved radiographic union and returned to full range of movement and independent mobilization comparable to their preoperative state. One patient was lost to follow-up.Conclusion:The authors believe that fixation of extracapsular proximal femoral fractures distal to a well-fixed, well-functioning RHA is a good management option in an independent and active patient. A higher level of evidence is needed to investigate the surgical management options of these injuries comparing osteosynthesis with revision arthroplasty.

High Satisfaction and Activity Levels After Total Hip Arthroplasty in Patients Under Age 21

BackgroundWith improved materials and bearing surfaces, the use of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in young patients is increasing. Functional outcomes and activity level are particularly relevant in this higher-demand patient population. There is a paucity of data on patient-reported outcomes and activity levels after THA in extremely young (<21 years old) patients. MethodsWe identified 196 patients (222 hips) who underwent THA at age <21 years at our institution from 1982 to 2018. After applying exclusion criteria, 113 of 160 (70.6%) patients (129 hips) were available for follow-up. Patient activity levels and functional outcomes were evaluated using the UCLA activity score, Forgotten Joint Score (FJS), Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement, and a validated 5-question satisfaction survey. Survivorship and reasons for revision were recorded. ResultsThe mean age at surgery was 17.0 ± 2.8 years, and the mean follow-up was 13.2 years (range 2-38 years). The most common indications for THA were osteonecrosis (34%) and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (30%). The mean UCLA activity score was 5.9 ± 2.0, and 64% of patients reported a score ≥6. The mean FJS was 57.9 ± 31.0. The mean Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement score was 84.6 ± 16.6. Ninety percent of patients reported that they were very or somewhat satisfied with their surgery. At final follow-up, 27 of 129 (20.9%) hips had undergone revision surgery. ConclusionTHA performed in patients under 21 years of age with end-stage hip disease allows for high levels of activity and satisfaction postoperatively, with most patients being able to participate in moderate recreational activities. These data may be useful for surgeons in planning for and counseling extremely young patients indicated for THA.

Similar stress repartition for a standard uncemented collared femoral stem versus a shortened collared femoral stem.

Introduction: The design of uncemented femoral stems for use in total hip arthroplasty has evolved. Several uncemented short stems have been developed with different bone fixations, shapes, or stem lengths. The literature analyzing the biomechanical performance of short to standard stem lengths is limited. The aim was to compare the stress repartition on a standard uncemented stem and a shortened uncemented femoral stem with the same design features. Material and methods: This finite element analysis assessed the stress repartition on two femoral components with the same design (uncemented, collared, proximal trapezoidal cross-section, and a tapered quadrangular distal stem) but with two different lengths. The shortened stem was shorter by 40 mm compared to the standard stem. The stress repartition was analysed according to the Von Mises criterion. Results: The stress repartition was similar for the standard and shorter stem without significant difference (p = 0.94). The mean Von Mises stress was 58.1 MPa [0.2; 154.1] for the standard stem and 57.2 MPa [0.03; 160.2] for the short stem. The distal part of the standard stem, which was removed in the short stem, had mean stress of 3.7 MPa [0.2; 7.0]. Conclusion: The finite element analysis found similar stress repartitions between a standard uncemented collared stem and a short, collared stem with the same design. A clinical study assessing the clinical outcomes and the bone remodelling with a collared short stem would be interesting to confirm these first promising results.

Research progress on joint replacement for hemiplegic femoral neck fracture

With China's aging society, the number of patients with hemiplegia caused by cerebrovascular accident is increasing gradually. The risk of hip fracture in the first year after the onset of this kind of patients is 4 times higher than that of ordinary people, and most of them occur in the side of hemiplegia. For senile femoral neck fracture, artificial joint replacement is almost the first choice of treatment, with mature operation technology and good curative effect. At present, it is considered that if the muscle strength of hemiplegic side can reach grade III after cerebral vascular accident, hip arthroplasty can be the first choice for hemiplegic patients with hemiplegic femoral neck fracture. However, the situation of hemiplegic patients is different from that of ordinary people. The hemiplegic limbs may have muscle atrophy, muscle strength imbalance, osteoporosis and other problems, which brings difficulties to the formulation of surgical plan. This paper mainly discusses the choice of surgical approach, the use of total hip arthroplasty or hemiarthroplasty, the use of cemented prosthesis or cementless prosthesis, and how to reduce the incidence of postoperative dislocation The purpose is to provide more reference evidence for orthopedic doctors in clinical decision-making.

Short single-wedge stems have higher risk of periprosthetic fracture than other cementless stem designs in Dorr type A femurs: a finite element analysis.

The use of total hip arthroplasty (THA) femoral stems that transmit force in a favourable manner to the femur may minimise periprosthetic fractures. Finite element analysis (FEA) is a computerised method that analyses the effect of forces applied to a structure with complex shape. Our aim was to apply FEA to compare primary THA cementless stem designs and their association with periprosthetic fracture risk. 3-dimensional (3D) models of a Dorr Type A femur and 5 commonly used primary THA cementless stem designs (short single wedge, standard-length single wedge, modular, double-wedge metaphyseal filling, and cylindrical fully coated) were developed using computed tomography (CT) imaging. Implant insertion, single-leg stance, and twisting with a planted foot were simulated. FEA was performed, and maximum femoral strain along the implant-bone interface recorded. Femoral strain was highest with short single-wedge stem design (0.3850) and lowest with standard-length single-wedge design (0.0520). Location of maximum femoral strain varied by stem design, but not with implant insertion, single-leg stance, or twisting with a planted foot. Strain was as high during implant insertion as with single-leg stance or twisting with a planted foot. Our results suggest the risk of intraoperative and postoperative periprosthetic fracture with THA in a Dorr A femur is highest with short single-wedge stems and lowest with standard-length single-wedge stems. Consideration may be given to minimising the use of short single-wedge stems in THA. Implant-specific sites of highest strain should be carefully inspected for fracture.

The Impact of Running, Monofilament Barbed Suture for Subcutaneous Tissue Closure on Infection Rates in Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Retrospective Cohort Analysis

BackgroundRecently, running, monofilament barbed suture has become more popular as an efficient and economical alternative to traditional braided interrupted suture for wound closure following total joint arthroplasty. Its overall association with wound complications following surgery remains unknown at this time. Several studies have investigated its use in total knee arthroplasty (TKA), but there is limited literature surrounding use in total hip arthroplasty (THA). In this retrospective cohort study, our primary objective was to determine whether the use of monofilament barbed suture in THA was associated with reduced rates of postoperative infection when compared to traditional braided suture. MethodsPatients who underwent primary unilateral THA between November 2011 and December 2017 by a single senior surgeon with closure using either monofilament barbed suture (162 patients) or braided interrupted suture (429 patients) were retrospectively reviewed for postoperative wound complications during the first 90 days after surgery. Demographics, comorbidities, and perioperative data were also included to assess for risk factors for infection. ResultsThere was no difference between braided and barbed suture in overall rates of major complication, including periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) (0.47% vs 0.62%, P = .82) or revisions (1.86% vs 1.23%, P = .60). The overall rate of minor, superficial wound complications was also similar between both groups (6.1% vs 3.1%, P = .15). However, when superficial complications were categorized by type (dehiscence vs infection), the use of barbed suture was associated with a decreased rate of superficial wound infection (0% vs 5.4%, P = .003) and an increased rate of wound dehiscence (3.1% vs 0.7%, P = .04). ConclusionThe use of monofilament barbed suture for superficial skin closure in THA leads to similar overall rates of both major and minor wound complications when compared to traditional interrupted braided suture. However, while barbed suture was associated with fewer superficial infections, there was an increased incidence of wound dehiscence. Overall, barbed suture demonstrated a cumulatively equivalent rate of superficial wound complications compared to braided suture. Based on this investigation, barbed suture appears safe to use in THA and may represent an efficient and effective alternative to braided suture for wound closure. Level of EvidenceLevel IV; retrospective cohort study.

The effects of preoperative chronic opioid use in total hip arthroplasty

BackgroundPerioperative opioid use is becoming an increasingly concerning topic in total joint arthroplasty (TJA). The current study aims to add to the paucity of prior studies that have detailed perioperative opioid use patterns and the effects of preoperative chronic opioid use among a cohort of total hip arthroplasty (THA) patients. MethodsA retrospective analysis of 256 consecutive patients who underwent a THA at our institution between February 2016 and June 2016 was performed. Two cohorts were compared: patients deemed 1) preoperative chronic opioid users, and 2) non-chronic users. Variables compared included baseline characteristics, quality metrics, and patients’ opioid use histories 3 months prior to surgery and 6 months following surgery. ResultsOf the 256 patients, 54 (21.1%) patients were identified as preoperative chronic opioid users. Baseline characteristics including age, gender, BMI, and ASA scores were similar between both cohorts. Discharge disposition, value-based purchasing (VBP) costs, length of stay (LOS), emergency room visits, and postoperative office visits were similar between the two cohorts. Readmission rates (30-day, 90-day, and 6-month) were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the chronic opioid users cohort. By the 6-month postoperative time period, chronic opioid users were consuming approximately 100-times the morphine equivalents than non-chronic users. ConclusionsThe current study demonstrates that a substantial proportion of preoperative chronic opioid users continue to consume large amounts of opioids up to 6-months following THA surgery. Furthermore, preoperative chronic use is significantly associated with poorer quality outcomes, specifically with respect to readmission rates. Level of evidenceLevel II, Prognostic Study.

Design, manufacture, and fatigue analysis of lightweight hip implants.

This study aims to design, analyze and manufacture lightweight hip implants which have sufficient fatigue performance to enable use in total hip arthroplasty (THA). The lattice structure was applied on an implant geometry, which is frequently used in THA, to provide a reduction in mass and increase flexibility. The implant surfaces were roughened using semispherical pores to improve the osseointegration. The specimens were manufactured by means of direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) and fatigue tests were performed according to ISO 7206-4:2010. Moreover, fatigue analyses of the designed implants were numerically carried out using the finite element method. The applied lattice structure on implant geometry leads to 15-17% reduction in the masses of implants compared to a solid one. It has also been determined that the lightweight implants show more flexible behavior with increasing pore diameter used on the implant surfaces while keeping the lattice structure geometry constant. The fatigue test and finite element analysis (FEA) results are in reasonable agreement. In addition, additively manufactured solid implants have exhibited similar fatigue performance with one produced by conventional methods. This paper presents design, analysis, manufacturing and fatigue test processes of lightweight hip implants. The lattice structure and the semispherical pores were applied on a reference implant geometry and they were manufactured by DMLS. The fatigue tests and FEA were performed to evaluate newly designed implant performance. All the implants successfully completed the fatigue tests without any damage.