Survivorship of Modern Cementless Total Knee Arthroplasty: Analysis From the Canadian Joint Replacement Registry.

BACKGROUND: Cementless total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is rising in popularity. The literature supporting its use over cemented TKA remains sparse. Using the Canadian Joint Replacement Registry (CJRR), we sought to investigate cementless versus cemented fixation in modern primary TKA and (1) determine whether there is an overall difference in revision by fixation, (2) perform a subanalysis of the most-commonly used cementless TKA brand in Canada, and (3) identify the reasons for revision. METHODS: The CJRR data was used to analyze TKA designs with cemented and cementless versions. Revision risk is reported as all-cause cumulative percent revision (CPR). Reasons for revision were analyzed. Cox proportional hazards models were used to report adjusted hazard ratios (HR) controlling for age, sex, patella resurfacing, and bearing constraints. We included 202,880 primary TKAs performed between 2012 and 2021. Of those, 9,163 (4.5%) were cementless. RESULTS: The CPR at 8 years was 4.49% for cementless and 3.14% for cemented implants. After adjusting for confounders, we did not detect a difference in revision risk overall (HR 0.87 [95% CI (confidence interval) 0.73 to 1.04], P = 0.128). However, the most commonly used cementless TKA brand demonstrated a CPR of 1.95% compared to 2.19% for its cemented version at 4 years. Furthermore, we detected a significantly lower revision risk compared to its cemented version after adjusting for confounders (HR 0.66 [95% CI 0.51 to 0.85], P = 0.001). The 4 most common reasons for revision in both groups were the following: (1) infection, (2) instability, (3) aseptic loosening, and (4) pain of unknown origin. CONCLUSIONS: Using CJRR data adjusted for confounding factors, no difference in revision risk was detected between cemented and cementless implants overall. However, for the most common brand of cementless TKA used in Canada, there was a lower risk of revision than its corresponding cemented version. The reasons for revision were similar.

Minimum 15-Year Survival of a Biconvex Inlay Patellar Component in Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty: An Analysis of 2,530 Total Knee Arthroplasties From a Single Institution.

BACKGROUND: Routine patellar resurfacing during primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains controversial. To our knowledge, there are no studies reporting the long-term performance of a cemented biconvex all-polyethylene inlay component implanted at the time of primary TKA. The purpose of this study was to examine the 15-year survivorship and long-term clinical outcomes of this biconvex inlay patella used at our institution. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed our prospectively collected institutional database and identified 2,530 patients who underwent cemented TKA with a single prosthetic design (from 1996 to 2007) where the patella was resurfaced using this cemented biconvex inlay patella. The mean age at surgery was 68 years (range, 29 to 93). The mean body mass index was 33.0 (range, 16.4 to 76.3), with 61.9% women. At the time of analysis, the mean time from surgery was 20.4 years (range, 15 to 26). We used Kaplan-Meier analysis to calculate survivorship at 15 years. We analyzed clinical outcomes using 3 patient-reported outcome measures collected prospectively. RESULTS: The 15-year survivorship with revision surgery for all causes as the end point was 97.1% (95% confidence interval 96.1 to 98.1%). The 15-year survivorship with revision surgery for a patella-related complication as the end point was 99.7% (95% confidence interval 99.4 to 1.0). At the final follow-up, patients showed significant improvement in scores for the Knee Society Clinical Rating System (P < .001), Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (P < .001), and Veterans Rand 12-Item Health Survey physical component (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Routine patellar resurfacing using a biconvex inlay patellar component has excellent survivorship and a low rate of complications at 15 years post-TKA.

Minimum 2-Year Outcomes of a Modern Monoblock Titanium Fluted Tapered Revision Stem for Complex Primary and Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: Modular titanium fluted tapered (TFT) stems have demonstrated excellent clinical success for femoral revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) surgery. This study reports the short-term outcomes of a novel modern monoblock TFT stem used for revision and complex primary THA with a minimum of 2 years of follow-up. METHODS: We identified 126 patients who received a single monoblock TFT stem: 26 patients for complex THA (failed fracture fixation) and 100 patients for revision THA. The reasons for revision THA included 40 for previous periprosthetic joint infection, 42 for aseptic loosening, 9 for trunnionosis, and 9 for periprosthetic fractures. The Paprosky grading for femoral bone loss at the time of surgery and the measured subsidence of femoral stems at 3-month follow-up were determined. We evaluated the number and indications for reoperations. RESULTS: The mean time from surgery was 3.9 years (range, 2.0 to 6.9). A paired t-test analysis showed significant improvement from preoperative versus postoperative clinical outcome scores (P < .001) for Harris Hip Score (38.76 ± 15.24 versus 83.42 ± 15.38), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (45.6 ± 19.0 versus 69.9 ± 21.3), Veterans RAND 12 Item Health Survey Physical component (31.7 ± 8.1 versus 37.8 ± 11.3), and Veterans RAND 12 Item Health Survey Mental component (48.2 ± 12.2 versus 51.6 ± 12.5). The Paprosky grading for femoral bone loss was Grade 1 (3.9%), Grade 2 (35.7%), Grade 3A (47.6%), Grade 3B (11.1%), and Grade 4 (1.6%) cases. There were 18 reoperations (14.7%), with 13 for periprosthetic joint infection (7 treated with implant retention and 6 treated with a 2-stage revision), 4 for instability, and 1 for acetabular aseptic loosening. There were no aseptic failures of the stem. CONCLUSIONS: This novel modern monoblock TFT stem provided reliable femoral fixation and has increasingly supplanted the use of modular TFT stems for complex primary and revision surgery in our institution.

Survivorship and Outcomes of 2-Stage Revision for Infected Total Hip Arthroplasty at a Mean of 7-Year Follow-Up.

BACKGROUND: Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) continues to be one of the leading causes of failure following total hip arthroplasty (THA). The objectives of the study were to (1) determine the minimum 2-year infection-free survivorship of 2-stage revision THA, (2) determine the causative organisms for repeat 2-stage revision THA, and (3) characterize the results of failed 2-stage revisions and evaluate patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). METHODS: A retrospective chart review was completed for patients who underwent 2-stage revision THA for PJI. Prospective data were collected on each patient, including demographics, causative organisms, complications, and type of reoperation. The PROMs, including Harris Hip Score, 12-item Short-Form Health Survey, and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index scores were obtained prior to 2-stage revision THA surgery and annually as part of standard clinical and radiographic follow-up. RESULTS: A total of 328 patients who underwent a 2-stage revision THA for a PJI were included in the study (mean age 67 years [range, 28 to 90], mean body mass index of 30.6 [range, 15 to 57]). The overall infection-free survivorship for 2-stage revision THA was 73.8% at a minimum of 2 years (range, 2 to 20). Overall, 194 (59.1%) patients who had successful infection eradication underwent a 2-revision THA only. The most common single organisms infected were Staphylococcus aureus (12.5%) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (11%). Higher reoperation rates were found in cases with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and polymicrobial infections. All PROMs showed statistical improvement from preoperatively to the latest follow-up appointment. CONCLUSIONS: Two-stage revision THA is associated with a good success rate in the treatment of PJIs at mid-term to long-term follow-up. Polymicrobial and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections are poor prognostic factors, making the eradication of infection more difficult. The management of PJIs continues to be one of the most important orthopaedic challenges to treat.

Predictors of Undergoing Revision Within 5 Years of Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Population-Based Study.

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to identify the rate and risk factors for revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) within the first 5 years postoperative. Our secondary objective was to identify the rate of additional surgical procedures and death. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study among patients in Ontario, Canada who underwent an elective, primary TKA between April 1, 2007, and March 31, 2014, for osteoarthritis. We excluded patients under 40 years and who had undergone a TKA within the previous 15 years. Our final study cohort included 94,193 patients. We reported the proportion of the study cohort who experienced revision surgery within 2 and 5 years of the primary TKA; secondary surgery within 5 years. We conducted Cochran-Armitage tests for trends to assess changes in the proportion of patients who experienced each of the study outcomes, and multivariable logistic regressions to evaluate predictors of a revision TKA. RESULTS: There were 3,112 (3.3%) patients who had a revision within 5 years, and 1,866 (2.0%) within 2 years of their primary TKA. 3,316 (3.5%) had a secondary surgery (0.6% patellar resurfacing; 1.6% manipulation; 1.3% synovectomy; 0.5% washout; 0.9% debridement). Lower age, men, lower income, higher comorbidity score, depression, previous arthroscopy, lower surgeon volume, and general anesthesia were all significant positive predictors of revision. CONCLUSIONS: In our study cohort, 2.0% of patients had a revision TKA within 2 years, and 3.3% within 5 years of their primary TKA. Preoperative identification of risk factors may reduce the future prevalence of revision TKAs.

No Difference in Subsidence Between Modern Monoblock and Modular Titanium Fluted Tapered Femoral Stems.

BACKGROUND: Subsidence remains a concern when utilizing tapered fluted titanium (TFT) femoral stems and may lead to leg length discrepancy, impingement, instability, and failure to obtain osseointegration. This study aims to compare stem subsidence across 3 modern TFT stems. Our secondary aim was to investigate the influence of bicortical contact or "scratch fit" on subsidence, as well as the role of intraoperative imaging in maximizing bicortical contact and preventing stem subsidence. METHODS: A retrospective review of 271 hip arthroplasties utilizing modern TFT stems at a single institution was performed. Three stem designs were included in the analysis: 1 monoblock TFT stem (n = 91) and 2 modular TFT stems (n = 90; n = 90). Patient demographics, Paprosky femoral bone loss classification, bicortical contact, utilization of intraoperative imaging, and stem subsidence (comparison of initial postoperative radiograph to the latest follow-up radiograph-minimum 3 months) were recorded. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference in overall subsidence (P = .191) or the incidence of subsidence >5 millimeters between stems (P = .126). Subgroup analysis based on femoral bone loss grading showed no difference in subsidence between stems. Increased bicortical contact was associated with reduced subsidence (P = .004). Intraoperative imaging was used in 46.5% (126 of 271) of cases; this was not correlated with bicortical contact (P = .673) or subsidence (P = .521). CONCLUSION: All 3 modern TFT stems were highly successful and associated with low rates of subsidence, regardless of modular or monoblock design. Surgeons should select the stem that they feel is most clinically appropriate.

Minimum 5-Year Clinical Outcomes and Survivorship for a Single Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty System Using Hybrid Fixation and Press-Fit Stems.

BACKGROUND: Hybrid fixation, utilizing diaphyseal press-fit stems and cement fixation in the tibial and femoral metaphyseal areas, has long been a strategy for revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes and survivorships of hybrid fixation using a single rTKA revision system with a minimum of 5 years follow-up. METHODS: We reviewed our prospectively collected database to identify 281 patients who underwent rTKA using a single revision system with hybrid fixation and press-fit stems between July 2006 and August 2016. We reviewed the clinical outcome scores, including the Knee Society Score, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis index, and Veterans RAND 12 Item Health Survey. We also evaluated the 5 and 10-year survivorships and the indications for reoperations. The cohort had a mean age of 70 years (range, 45.2 to 92.0) and a mean body mass index of 33.4 (range, 17.3 to 55.8). The mean time from rTKA surgery was 11.1 years (range, 5.3 to 15.5). RESULTS: Paired t-test analyses showed significant improvements from preoperative versus postoperative clinical outcome scores (P < .001) for Knee Society Score, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis, and Veterans RAND 12 Item Health Survey Physical component. Prosthetic joint infections after index rTKA were the most common failure mode with 29 patients requiring reoperations. Rerevision due to aseptic loosening was uncommon (6 patients) with a cumulative survival rate of 95.2% at 5 years and 94.2% at 10 years. CONCLUSION: The use of this single rTKA system utilizing press fit stems combined with hybrid fixation provided significant improvements in the clinical outcomes and excellent survivorships at 5 and 10 years.

A Ten-Year Radiostereometric Analysis of Polyethylene Wear Between Oxidized Zirconium and Cobalt Chrome Articulations in Total Hip Arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: Oxidized zirconium (OxZi) femoral heads combine the decreased abrasive properties of ceramics with the toughness of metal alloys to lower wear and increase the durability of total hip arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to compare the 10-year polyethylene wear rates between OxZi/XLPE and cobalt chrome (CoCr)/XLPE articulations. METHODS: A radiostereometric analysis (RSA) was performed on two cohorts of 23 patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty using either OxZi/XLPE or CoCr/XLPE at a minimum of 10-year follow-up. Cohorts were matched for age, gender, body mass index (BMI), and diagnosis. Polyethylene wear was measured using RSA to determine total and steady-state wear rates for both cohorts. Preoperative and postoperative patient-reported outcome measures (SF12, HHS, and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index scores) were compared. RESULTS: The mean total head penetration rate was found to be statistically different between the entire cohorts (OxZi 0.048 ± 0.021 mm/y, CoCr 0.035 ± 0.017 mm/y, P = .02) but not when 28-mm heads only (OxZi 0.045 ± 0.016 mm/y, CoCr 0.034 ± 0.017 mm/y, P = .066) were directly compared. The mean steady-state wear rate was not significantly different between the entire cohorts (OxZi 0.031 ± 0.021 mm/y, CoCr 0.024 ± 0.019 mm/y, P = .24) or 28-mm head cohorts (OxZi 0.028 ± 0.019 mm/y, CoCr 0.024 ± 0.019 mm/y, P = .574). Outcome measures showed no statistical difference except for the Harris Hip Score where the OxZi cohort demonstrated higher median scores. CONCLUSION: Using RSA to evaluate the 10-year in-vivo head penetration, there was no statistically significant difference in steady-state wear rates between OxZi and CoCr articulations. Both bearing combinations demonstrated wear rates well below the threshold for osteolysis.

Cement Mantle Quality and Stem Alignment in Cemented Collarless Polished Tapered Stems Implanted via the Direct Anterior and Direct Lateral Approaches: A Single Institution Experience.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to compare the stem alignment and the quality of cement mantle of collarless polished tapered cemented stems inserted through the direct anterior approach (DAA) and the direct lateral approach (DLA). METHODS: A comparative retrospective study of 232 hybrid total hip arthroplasties using a cemented collarless polished tapered stem through either the DAA (n = 147) or DLA (n = 85) was performed. Radiographic evaluation included stem alignment, cement mantle quality, and cement mantle thickness. RESULTS: On anteroposterior radiographs, stems implanted through the DLA were more likely to be in neutral alignment, than those implanted through the DAA (83.5%[n = 71] versus 71.4% [n = 105]; P = <.001). No difference between approaches was noted for stem alignment on lateral radiographs or cement mantle quality. Multivariate analysis revealed factors associated with suboptimal cement mantle and included Dorr type B or C femur as well as male gender. A mean cement mantle thickness ≥2mm was achieved in all Gruen zones for both approaches. CONCLUSION: In our series, the DAA was associated with a higher incidence of coronal plane stem malalignment compared to the DLA when using cemented tapered polished femoral components for total hip arthroplasty. No difference in lateral stem alignment or cement mantle quality was found.

Survivorship of Metaphyseal Cones and Sleeves in Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: Bone loss remains an anticipated challenge in revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA). Recent efforts to enhance rTKA fixation and stability have focused on metaphyseal implants, namely cones and sleeves. We sought to compare cone and sleeve implant survivorship in rTKA. METHODS: One hundred eighty patients who underwent rTKA with metaphyseal implants from 2005 to 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. A total of 83 cones (22 femoral, 62 tibial) and 121 sleeves (58 femoral, 63 tibial) were identified. The mean age at the time of surgery was 72 years (range 43-97). Intraoperative Anderson Orthopaedic Research Institute bone loss classifications included the following: type 2A (25), type 2B (98), and type 3 (81). Mean follow-up was 41 months. RESULTS: Revision-free survival for cones was 91.3% vs 92.2% for sleeves (P = .29). Twelve knees (4 cones, 8 sleeves) underwent irrigation, debridement, and polyethylene exchange with metaphyseal implant retention for acute postoperative periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). Development of chronic PJI warranted removal of 7 cones (8.4%), 6 of which were initially placed as part of a 2-stage revision TKA. Eight sleeves (6.6%) were removed for PJI, with all initially placed during a second stage reimplantation. In the absence of infection, survival was 100% and 99.1% for cones and sleeves, respectively. One sleeve was revised for periprosthetic fracture. CONCLUSION: Metaphyseal cones and sleeves offer equally durable survivorship in revision TKA. PJI was the most common mode of implant failure in this series. Importantly, no cases of cone or sleeve aseptic loosening were observed.

The Prevalence and Outcomes of Unexpected Positive Intraoperative Cultures in Presumed Aseptic Revision Knee Arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: The prevalence and outcomes of unexpected positive intraoperative cultures (UPC) in presumed aseptic revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are unclear. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of UPC and infection-free implant survival in this patient population. Secondly, we aimed to compare the infection-free implant survival between cohorts based on number of UPCs and antibiotic treatment. METHODS: We reviewed our institutional database from 2006 to 2019 for all TKA revisions (n = 1795) to identify all presumed aseptic TKA revisions with intraoperative culture(s). After exclusions, 775 revisions were eligible and those with UPC were included in the Kaplan-Meier analysis to determine infection-free implant survival for the cohorts. RESULTS: The prevalence of UPC was 9.8%. The 2- and 5-year infection-free survival was 97.4% and 95.3%, respectively. The 5-year infection-free survival from the same microorganism as the UPC was 98.7%. Infection-free survival was similar for the 1 versus ≥2 UPC cohorts (P = .416), however was poorer for the cohort treated with antibiotics (P = .021). Only one of 3 subsequent PJI-related implant failures was caused by the same microorganism (polymicrobial) as the UPC. There were no subsequent infections in patients with a single UPC not treated with antibiotics. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of UPC was 9.8% and the infection-free implant survival is excellent. Infection-free survivorship from PJI caused by the same UPC microorganism is outstanding. Comparisons between cohorts must be interpreted with caution due to study limitations. A single UPC in patents without other signs of infection does not require antibiotic treatment. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Midterm Results of a Contemporary, Porous-Coated Acetabular System in Patients Undergoing Primary Total Hip Replacement for Degenerative Hip Disease: A Prospective, Multicenter Study.

BACKGROUND: A contemporary, porous-coated acetabular implant designed for uncemented insertion was introduced in Europe and Australia in 2007. A similar previous acetabular system was found in several studies at 10 to 15-year follow-up to demonstrate accelerated polyethylene wear, osteolysis, and early failure. The current study was conducted to determine the midterm safety and effectiveness of this contemporary acetabular system using highly crosslinked polyethylene and ceramic liners at 5-year follow-up. METHODS: A prospective, nonrandomized study was conducted at 8 sites in Canada and the United States. All 148 study participants received a contemporary acetabular shell with proprietary porous coating. The primary outcome was the requirement for revision surgery at 5 years postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included a survival analysis, patient-reported outcome measures, radiographic failure, and postoperative adverse events. RESULTS: At 5-year follow-up there was 1 cup revised for deep infection. No cups were revised for loosening and none were found to be radiographically loose. The overall survival rate with reoperation for any reason was 97.1%. The success rate was 96.8% for polyethylene and 100% for ceramic with no difference in the success rate between either bearing surface (P = 1.0). The mean patient-reported outcome measures all improved significantly between preoperative and 5-year postoperative scores (P < .001). CONCLUSION: Results from this 5-year, multicenter, prospective study indicate excellent survivorship for this acetabular system when used with crosslinked polyethylene or ceramic bearing surfaces.

Clinical Outcomes and Midterm Survivorship of an Uncemented Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty System.

BACKGROUND: The rise in total hip arthroplasty (THA) has led to a concomitant increase in revision THAs. Tracking implant performance therefore remains a significant element of scientific inquiry to garner and maintain public trust in this procedure. There are few available reports of outcomes of a single manufacturer's total hip system outside registry data. METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of a prospectively generated database to evaluate outcomes of a single manufacturer's femoral stem and acetabular shell for THA. We report the functional outcomes, revision data, and survivorship for this total hip system. RESULTS: A total of 1942 primary THAs were implanted into 1672 patients. There were of 57 revisions. There were no cases of acetabular failure at 10-year follow-up. All functional outcome scores demonstrated significant improvements following THA. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis for all-cause revisions demonstrated 2-year implant survival of 97.6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 96.9-98.3), 5-year implant survival of 97.3% (95% CI, 96.5-98.1), and 10-year implant survival of 97.0% (95% CI, 96.0-98.0). When infection was excluded, implant survivorship improved to 99.2% (95% CI, 98.8-99.6) at 2 years, 98.9% (95% CI, 98.5-99.4) at 5 years, and 98.7% (95% CI, 98.1-99.4) at 10 years. CONCLUSION: This THA implant system comprising an uncemented press-fit acetabulum used alongside a triple-tapered femoral stem is an excellent option for THA. Implant survivorship at 2, 5, and 10 years is among the best reported for any total hip system in the world.

Indications, Survivorship, and Clinical Outcomes of a Rotating Hinge Total Knee and Distal Femoral Arthroplasty System.

BACKGROUND: Rotating hinge knee prostheses (with or without distal femoral replacement) are indicated in cases of unreconstructible bony or soft tissue compromise. Despite their versatility, these implants have demonstrated high rates of mechanical failure. We aimed to review clinical outcomes of a novel hinged knee arthroplasty system. METHODS: We reviewed all cases in a prospective database of hinged total knee arthroplasty (with and without distal femoral arthroplasty) involving a single manufacturer's implant system at a large tertiary-level academic health sciences center. We collected reasons for surgery, implant survivorship, reasons for revision, and clinical outcomes (Short Form 12, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, and Knee Society Scores). RESULTS: Seventy-six cases of hinged knee implants using the knee system under investigation were performed (39 hinged total knee and 37 distal femoral replacements) between 2011 and 2018, inclusive. Indications for surgery varied, with second-stage reimplantation most common for rotating hinge and fracture most common for distal femoral arthroplasty. There were 6 revisions in the rotating hinge group (none for aseptic loosening) and 5 in the distal femoral arthroplasty group (1 for aseptic loosening). Average follow-up was 2.89 ± 2.09 years. Postoperative Short Form 12 (Physical Component), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, and Knee Society Scores were 30.12 ± 10.17, 55.90 ± 21.51, and 115.62 ± 45.20, respectively. CONCLUSION: This novel hinged knee system is a highly durable option for complex and revision knee arthroplasty. Early failures tend to be secondary to infection. We observed only a single case of aseptic loosening. Although these early results are encouraging, ongoing follow-up is required to determine long-term prognosis in patients receiving this implant.

Radiostereometric Analysis Permits In Vivo Measurement of Very Small Levels of Wear in TKA.

BACKGROUND: Revision of TKA as a result of polyethylene wear is decreasing, but long-term wear performance of polyethylene is still a topic of interest to surgeons and device manufacturers seeking to improve longevity. Measuring wear of modern, wear-resistant implants has been described using radiostereometric analysis (RSA). Performing in vivo measurements would establish whether implant retrieval studies are representative of wear in well-performing knees. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: For a single knee implant system, we sought to determine (1) the linear wear rate using RSA; (2) the association between demographic factors and wear rate; and (3) the association between limb alignment and wear rate. METHODS: A total of 49 patients with a minimum followup of 10 years (median, 12 years; range, 10-20 years) were retrospectively selected. During the examined period, 4082 TKAs were performed of which 2085 were the implant examined in this study. There were 71 of these patients who met the criteria including an available full-leg radiograph postoperatively, and 34 of these patients returned for examination along with 15 additional from a separate RSA study that also met the criteria. All patients received a posterior-stabilized, cobalt-chromium-on-conventional polyethylene total knee implant from a single implant system, which was the most commonly used at our institution at the time. Patients underwent standing RSA examinations from 0° to 120° of flexion at a single time point without the use of marker beads. Linear wear rates (including creep) were measured based on intersections between the femoral component and tibial insert models. Associations between wear and patient age at surgery, sex, height, weight, body mass index, tibial insert size, and limb alignment were examined. RESULTS: Using the maximum linear wear rate from any flexion angle, the lateral rate was 0.047 mm/year (interquartile range [IQR], 0.034-0.066 mm/year) and the medial rate was 0.052 mm/year (IQR, 0.040-0.069 mm/year). Using the median of the linear wear rates across all flexion angles, the lateral rate was 0.027 mm/year (IQR, 0.017-0.046 mm/year) and the medial rate was 0.038 mm/year (IQR, 0.022-0.054 mm/year). This rate for males was 0.049 mm/year medially (IQR, 0.042-0.077 mm/year) and 0.032 mm/year laterally (IQR, 0.026-0.059 mm/year), and for females was 0.027 mm/year medially (0.016-0.039 mm/year) and 0.020 mm/year laterally (IQR, 0.013-0.032 mm/year). The wear rate for males was greater medially (difference = 0.022 mm/year, p < 0.001) and laterally (difference = 0.012 mm/year, p = 0.008). There were associations between greater wear and increasing height (ρ = 0.48, p < 0.001 medially and ρ = 0.30, p = 0.04 laterally), decreasing body mass index (ρ = -0.31, p = 0.03 medially), and greater implant size (ρ = 0.34, p = 0.02 medially). Increasingly varus leg alignment was associated with greater medial wear (ρ = 0.33, p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS: Greater wear rates were associated with demographic factors and leg alignment. Further RSA wear studies of other modern implant systems would provide complementary information to retrieval studies and valuable data on wear resistance. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Good wear resistance was demonstrated by well-performing implants in patients at long-term followup with wear magnitudes in agreement with reported values from retrieval studies.

Minimum 15-Year Results of a Dual-Offset Uncemented Femoral Stem in Total Hip Arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the present study is to assess the long-term clinical and radiological outcomes of a proximal porous-coated, dual-offset, tapered titanium alloy uncemented stem at a minimum of 15 years of follow-up. METHODS: We reviewed 210 total hip arthroplasties (in 193 patients) performed between 1996 and 1999 and followed prospectively in our database who received the Synergy stem. We report a Kaplan-Meier survival analysis as well as the Harris Hip Score, the Western Ontario and McMaster University Arthritis Index, and the Short Form Health Survey-12 scores. Radiographs were evaluated for evidence of subsidence, osteolysis, osteointegration, or loosening. RESULTS: The average follow-up was 16 years (range, 15-17.7 years). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis with revision of stem for aseptic mechanical loosening (1 stem) as the end point revealed a cumulative survival rate of 99.5% at 16 years. The Harris Hip Score, the Western Ontario and McMaster University Arthritis Index, and the Short Form Health Survey-12 physical scores were all significantly improved (P < .001) from the preoperative period to latest follow-up. Minor osteolysis was observed proximally in 14 hips (6.6%) with no osteolysis distal to the porous coating. CONCLUSION: To our knowledge, this study represents the largest series reporting the longest clinical follow-up of this third-generation, dual-offset, proximal ingrowth, tapered cementless stem. The Synergy stem design has achieved excellent clinical outcomes, predictable osteointegration, and outstanding survivorship of 99.5% at a minimum of 15 years follow-up, representing the standard for femoral stems at our institution.

Ninety-Day Costs, Reoperations, and Readmissions for Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty Patients of Varying Body Mass Index Levels.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study is to compare 90-day costs and outcomes for primary total hip arthroplasty patients between a nonobese (body mass index, 18.5-24.9) vs overweight (25-29.9), obese (30-34.9), severely obese (35-39.9), morbidly obese (40-44.9), and super obese (45+) cohorts. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective review of an institutional database of primary total hip arthroplasty patients from 2006 to 2013. Thirty-three super-obese patients were identified, and the other 5 cohorts were randomly selected in a 2:1 ratio (n = 363). Demographics, 90-day outcomes (costs, reoperations, and readmissions), and outcomes after 3 years (revisions and change scores for Short-Form Health Survey, Harris Hip Score, and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index) were collected. Costs were determined using unit costs from our institutional administrative data for all in-hospital resource utilization. Comparisons between the nonobese and other groups were made with Kruskal-Wallis tests for non-normal data and chi-square and Fisher exact test for categorical data. RESULTS: The 90-day costs in the morbidly obese ($13,134 ± $7250 mean ± standard deviation, P < .01) and super-obese ($15,604 ± 6783, P < .01) cohorts were significantly greater than the nonobese cohorts ($10,315 ± 1848). Only the super-obese cohort had greater 90-day reoperation and readmission rates than the nonobese cohort (18.2% vs 0%, P < .01 and 21.2% vs 4.5%, P = .02, respectively). Reoperations and septic revisions after 3 years were greater in the super-obese cohort compared to the nonobese cohort 21.2% versus 3.0% (P = .01) and 18.2% versus 1.5% (P = .01), respectively. Improvements in Short-Form Health Survey, Harris Hip Score, and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index were comparable in all cohorts. CONCLUSION: Super-obese patients have greater risks and costs compared to nonobese patients, but also have comparable quality of life improvements.

Morbid Obesity in Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Significant Risk Factor for Re-Operation.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study is to compare surgical and clinical outcomes between matched groups of morbidly obese (body mass index [BMI] >40 kg/m2) and non-morbidly obese (BMI <40 kg/m2) patients undergoing first-time revision total knee arthroplasty with a minimum 5-year follow-up. METHODS: Two groups of 87 patients (BMI >40 or <40 kg/m2) were matched 1:1 based on age at the time of revision, gender, and diagnosis for revision (aseptic or septic causes). RESULTS: The morbidly obese group had a significantly greater incidence of re-operation (34.5% [30/87] vs 16.1% [14/87], P = .005) and re-revision (27.6% [24/87] vs 12.6% [11/87], P = .014) with a significantly lower 10-year survivorship for re-operation (P = .05) and subsequent revision (P = .014). In particular, the aseptic sub-group had a greater incidence of re-operation (29.9% [20/67] vs 13.4% [9/67], P = .021) and re-revision (26.9% [18/67] vs 11.9% [8/67], P = .029). The non-morbidly obese group demonstrated higher final Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Index scores (63.1 ± 19.5 vs 55.5 ± 22.5, P = .030) and a greater change between pre-operative and final KSS (45.6 ± 44.3 vs 39.7 ± 48.4, P = .040) and SF-12 Mental component (3.6 ± 10.8 vs -1.4 ± 10.3, P = .013). CONCLUSION: Morbidly obese patients undergoing revision total knee arthroplasty have a greater risk of re-operation and re-revision while experiencing lower clinical outcome scores compared to non-morbidly obese patients. These patients should be informed of the higher potential for re-operation and the possibility of poor results.

Varus tibial alignment is associated with greater tibial baseplate migration at 10 years following total knee arthroplasty.

PURPOSE: To examine implant migration and articular behavior of primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) at 10 years after index surgery and correlate to implant alignment. METHODS: Thirty-five patients underwent a cemented posterior stabilized total knee arthroplasty with a surgical objective of neutral alignment and were enrolled in a long-term radiostereometric analysis (RSA) study. At 10 years after surgery, patients were analyzed for implant migration using RSA as well as radiographic assessment of articular behavior at four positions of knee flexion. Implant position and alignment was measured on full-length radiographs. Patient demographics and reported outcomes were also collected. RESULTS: No difference between patient demographics or patient-reported outcomes were found. When categorized into neutral and varus groupings, no difference in migration was present. If alignment was considered as a continuous variable, there was no correlation between overall leg alignment and migration, however, migration increased with an increasing varus tibial alignment. Although contact location did not differ between neutral and varus groups through a range of motion, condylar liftoff was much more common in the varus group, of which all were lateral liftoff. CONCLUSIONS: Increased tibial varus results in increased implant migration. Overall varus limb alignment is correlated with isolated lateral compartment liftoff, and liftoff occurs more commonly than in neutral aligned knees. The increased migration and liftoff raise concerns about the longevity of malaligned total knee replacements. If a goal of overall varus limb alignment is desired for TKA, the tibia should remain neutral. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Cost-Effectiveness of Total Knee Arthroplasty vs Nonoperative Management in Normal, Overweight, Obese, Severely Obese, Morbidly Obese, and Super-Obese Patients: A Markov Model.

BACKGROUND: We estimated the cost-effectiveness of performing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) vs nonoperative management (NM) among 6 body mass index (BMI) cohorts. METHODS: A Markov model was used to compare the cost-utility of TKA and NM in 6 BMI groups (nonobese [BMI 18.5-24.9], overweight [25-29.9], obese [30-34.9], severely obese [35-39.9], morbidly obese [40-49.9], and super-obese [50+] patients) over a 15-year period. Model parameters for transition probability (ie, revision, re-revision, death), utility, and costs were estimated from the literature. Direct medical costs but not indirect societal costs were included in the model. Costs and utilities were discounted 3% annually. The primary outcome was the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of TKA vs NM. One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses of the model parameters were performed to determine the robustness of the model. RESULTS: Over the 15-year period, the ICERs for the TKA vs NM for the different BMI categories were nonobese ($3317/quality-adjusted life years [QALYs]), overweight ($2837/QALY), obese ($2947/QALY), severely obese ($3536/QALY), morbidly obese ($5531/QALY), and super-obese ($11,878/QALY). The higher BMI groups tended to have higher incremental QALYs and also higher incremental costs. The probabilistic sensitivity analysis with an ICER threshold of $30,000/QALY showed that TKA would be cost-effective in 100% of simulations of patients with a BMI<50 and 99.16% of super-obese simulations. CONCLUSION: While performing TKA on super-obese patients is more expensive, the substantial improvements in patient outcomes make it cost-effective. Therefore, withholding TKA care based on a BMI would lead to an unjustified loss of health-care access.