Contributions of capsular releases to femoral exposure in total hip arthroplasty via the direct anterior approach.

BACKGROUND: In total hip arthroplasty via the direct anterior approach, appropriate exposure is critical to allow preparation of the femur. The objective of this study was to explore the optimal soft tissue releases needed to allow broaching of the femur through a combination of experimental tests and computer simulations. METHODS: Fourteen full-body cadaveric specimens were included in this study. Total hip arthroplasty was performed via the direct anterior approach with the femur at 20° adduction and 20°extension. Soft tissue releases were performed sequentially, namely, the transverse iliofemoral ligament, descending iliofemoral ligament, ischio-femoral ligament, conjoint tendon, and obturator externus. After each release, the femur mobility was assessed by applying a 6 Nm external rotation torque and a 120 N distraction force. Subsequently, using specimen-specific models and models of the broach and handle, the broach passage after each release was simulated, and the release that allowed broach passage was analyzed. FINDINGS: The average external rotation after releasing the transverse and descending iliofemoral ligaments increased by 14.1° ± 6.1° and 13.8° ± 5.3°. With subsequent soft tissue releases, the rotational mobility increased incrementally, though the impact decreased. Impingement between the broach passage and the pelvis was mainly at the anterior superior iliac spine and the anterior inferior iliac spine. The volume of impingement decreased from 4.8 ± 4.5 cm3 after resection of the femoral head to 1.8 ± 1.6 cm3 and 1.2 ± 1.9 cm3 after release of the transverse and descending iliofemoral ligament, respectively. INTERPRETATION: With sequential soft-tissue releases, the femur mobility increased incrementally. However, the number of releases needed for each femur varied extensively between specimens. Most (10/14) femurs became accessible after the release of the ilio-femoral or ischio-femoral ligament.

Anterior Approach for Pediatric Supracondylar Humerus Fractures: A Systematic Review. / Abordaje Anterior para Fracturas Supracondíleas de Húmero Pediátrica: Revisión Sistemática.

Background and Purpose Open reduction is rarely performed in pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures. However, clear evidence is lacking regarding the optimal open approach to achieve satisfactory results. The anterior approach provides direct visualization of the fracture and excellent exposure to neurovascular structures, although its utilization is less common. The objective of this study was to review the indications, outcomes, and complications associated with the anterior approach for open reduction of these fractures. Methods Our protocol was registered at PROSPERO: CRD42023446923. MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Clinicaltrials.gov, and Cochrane Library were searched from database inception to search date (December 2023) and screened in duplicate for relevant studies. Data were collected regarding patient demographics, indications for open reduction, Flynn's functional and cosmetic outcomes, and complications. Study quality was assessed using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies Criteria. Results A total of 19 studies involving 483 patients were included. One study was classified as Level 2 evidence, ten as Level 3, and eight as Level 4. The mean MINORS score was 13.05 ± 3.47. The primary indication for open reduction was failed closed reduction, observed in 46% of patients. 97.7% and 98.6% of patients achieved Flynn's functional and cosmetic satisfactory results, respectively. The postsurgical neurovascular injury rate was 1.4%. One patient required reintervention. Conclusion The anterior approach is safe and effective for managing pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures requiring open reduction. Level of Evidence: Systematic review of Level 2-4 evidence studies.

Direct anterior compared to posterior approach for hip hemiarthroplasty following femoral neck fractures.

The differences in complication rates between the direct anterior and posterior approaches for hemiarthroplasty in elderly patients with femoral neck fractures are not yet fully understood. Dislocation, a severe complication associated with increased mortality and often requiring additional surgery, may occur less frequently with the direct anterior approach compared to the posterior approach. Careful consideration of patient demographics is essential when planning the surgical approach. Future research in this area should focus on robust randomized controlled trials involving elderly patients recovering from femoral neck fractures.

Indirect comparisons of traction table versus standard table in total hip arthroplasty through direct anterior approach: a systematic review and frequentist network meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: It remains unclear whether the use of an orthopaedic traction table (TT) in direct anterior approach (DAA) total hip arthroplasty (THA) results in better outcomes. The aim of this systematic review and network meta-analysis was to compare the THA outcomes through DAA on a standard operating table and the THA outcomes through DAA on a TT. METHODS: PubMed, Epistemonikos, and Google Scholar were searched for relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) up to 01 January 2024. An indirect comparison in network meta-analysis was performed to assess treatment effects between DAA on a TT and DAA on a standard table, using fixed-effects and random-effects models estimated with frequentist approach and consistency assumption. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated for continuous variables and odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CIs were estimated for binary variables. RESULTS: The systematic review of the literature identified 43 RCTs with a total of 2,258 patients. DAA with TT had a 102.3 mL higher intraoperative blood loss and a 0.6 mmol/L lower Hb 3 days postoperatively compared with DAA without TT (SMD = 102.33, 95% CI 47.62 to 157.04; SMD = - 0.60, 95% CI - 1.19 to - 0.00). DAA with TT had a 0.15 lower periprosthetic fracture OR compared with DAA without TT (OR 0.15, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.86). There were no further significant differences in surgical, radiological, functional outcomes and in complication rates. CONCLUSION: Based on our findings and taking into account the limitations, we recommend that particular attention be paid to the risk of periprosthetic fracture in DAA on a standard operating table and blood loss in DAA with TT. Since numerous other surgical, radiological, functional outcome parameters and other complication rates studied showed no significant difference between DAA on a standard operating table and DAA with TT, no recommendation for a change in surgical technique seems justified. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level I evidence, because this is a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Incision Closure for Direct Anterior Total Hip Arthroplasty: Is There a Difference in the Rate of Superficial Wound Complications With Suture Versus Staples?

Background Direct anterior total hip arthroplasty (DA-THA) has increased in popularity over recent decades. However, DA-THA has been reported to have a higher incidence of superficial wound complications, including infection and incisional dehiscence, compared to other surgical approaches to hip arthroplasty. While this indicates a need for optimal wound closure, little research exists on the preferred method of skin closure following DA-THA. This study aimed to determine if there was any difference in rates of superficial infection, wound dehiscence, or overall wound complications with skin closure using a running subcuticular 3-0 Monocryl® suture compared to surgical staples following DA-THA.  Methods Records of patients who underwent DA-THA at our institution between July 2017 to July 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Data were abstracted on patient demographics, comorbidities, skin closure method, and wound complications from the electronic medical record. Superficial infection and wound dehiscence were classified based on explicit diagnosis in post-operative records and incision photographs taken during follow-up visits. Overall wound complications were classified in patients who experienced either superficial infection, incisional dehiscence, or both complications following surgery. Descriptive statistics and chi-squared measures were obtained from post-operative patient data, and significance was set at p [Formula: see text] 0.05. Results A total of 365 DA-THAs were completed in 349 patients. A running subcuticular 3-0 Monocryl® suture closed 207 surgeries (56.7%), while surgical staples closed 158 surgeries (43.3%). There was no significant difference in independent rates of superficial infection (p = 0.076) or wound dehiscence (p = 0.118) between suture and staple cohorts; however, suture closure (10, 2.7%) was associated with a significantly higher rate of overall wound complications compared to staple closure (1, 0.3%) (p = 0.020). Conclusion DA-THA carries the risk of overall wound complications, including superficial infection and wound dehiscence. Our findings suggest superficial skin closure with staples may be preferred over sutures due to lower rates of overall wound complications. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal method of skin closure following DA-THA.

Complications and Survivorship After Aseptic Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty: Is There a Difference by Surgical Approach?

BACKGROUND: Revision total hip arthroplasty (rTHA) has traditionally been performed through the posterolateral approach (PA). Anterior-based approaches (AA) for rTHA are increasingly being utilized. The purpose of this study was to compare complications and survivorship from re-revision and reoperation after aseptic rTHA performed using an AA versus a PA. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent aseptic rTHA either through an AA (Direct Anterior Approach [DAA], Anterior Based Muscle Sparing [ABMS]) or PA from January 2017 to December 2021. There were 116 patients who underwent AA-rTHA (DAA 50, ABMS 66) or PA-rTHA (n = 105). Patient demographics, complications, and postoperative outcomes were collected. RESULTS: The most common indication in both groups was aseptic loosening (n = 26, 22.4% AA, n = 28, 26.7% PA). Acetabular revision alone was most common in the AA group (n = 33, 28.4%), while both components were most commonly revised in the PA groups (n = 47, 44.8%). In all the AA-rTHA group, the index THA was performed through a PA in 51% of patients, while the PA-rTHA group had the index procedure performed via AA in 4.8%. There was no statistically significant difference in re-revision rate between the DAA, ABMS, or PL groups (9.55% versus 5.3% versus 11.4%, respectively, P = 0.11). The most common overall reason for re-revision was persistent instability, with no difference in incidence of post-operative hip dislocation (n = 4, 6.8% DAA, n = 3, 5.3%, n = 10, 9.5% PA; P = 0.31). CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates no difference in complication or re-revision survivorship after aseptic rTHA performed through a DAA, AMBS approach, or PA, nor between anterior or posterior-based approaches.

Comparison of postoperative outcomes between endoscopy assisted minimal invasive direct anterior approach and bikini direct anterior approach in total hip arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: We have innovatively developed a modified bikini direct anterior approach total hip arthroplasty (THA), endoscopy assisted minimal invasive direct anterior approach (Endo-DAA). The study compared aesthetic appearance of the scar, postoperative radiographic and functional outcomes, and complications of Endo-DAA with Bikini-DAA. METHODS: Patients who underwent primary THA using Endo-DAA or Bikini-DAA were included. The main innovation of Endo-DAA is the use of minimally invasive 5-7 cm proximal transverse incision and distal puncture with an endoscopy assisted split-type tool to complete the acetabular preparation and prosthesis implantation. Outcomes evaluated included evaluation of scar satisfaction, hip reconstruction including inclination, anteversion and leg-length discrepancy (LLD) and patient-reported outcomes including Harris Hip Scores (HHS) and Forgotten Joint Score (FJS). Follow-up time points included preoperative, 6 weeks, 6 months and 12 months. RESULTS: Finally, 195 hips in Endo-DAA and 207 hips in Bikini DAA completed the follow-up. The Endo-DAA group was superior to the Bikini-DAA group in the cosmetic aspects of scars. the cup anteversion angle of Endo-DAA group was significantly better than that in the Bikini-DAA group. The early HHS and FJS of the Endo-DAA group were superior to those of the Bikini-group. Operation time, blood loss, incision length, length of stay and duration to start no-assistive-device walking were also significantly better in the Endo-DAA group. Furthermore, the Bikini-DAA group had a higher incidence of complication. CONCLUSION: Compared with Bikini-incision, Endo-DAA improves patients' subjective satisfaction with scar aesthetics, accelerates rapid recovery of postoperative function, and reduces postoperative complications.

Management Considerations for Cervical Corpectomy: Updated Indications and Future Directions.

Together, lower back and neck pain are among the leading causes of acquired disability worldwide and have experienced a marked increase over the past 25 years. Paralleled with the increasing aging population and the rise in chronic disease, this trend is only predicted to contribute to the growing global burden. In the context of cervical neck pain, this symptom is most often a manifestation of cervical degenerative disc disease (DDD). Traditionally, multilevel neck pain related to DDD that is recalcitrant to both physical and medical therapy can be treated with a procedure known as cervical corpectomy. Presently, there are many flavors of cervical corpectomy; however, the overarching goal is the removal of the pain-generating disc via the employment of the modern anterior approach. In this review, we will briefly detail the pathophysiological mechanism behind DDD, overview the development of the anterior approach, and discuss the current state of treatment options for said pathology. Furthermore, this review will also add to the current body of literature surrounding updated indications, surgical techniques, and patient outcomes related to cervical corpectomy. Finally, our discussion ends with highlighting the future direction of cervical corpectomy through the introduction of the "skip corpectomy" and distractable mesh cages.

Anterior approach for pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Open reduction is rarely performed in pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures. However, clear evidence is lacking regarding the optimal open approach to achieve satisfactory results. The anterior approach provides direct visualization of the fracture and excellent exposure to neurovascular structures, although its utilization is less common. The objective of this study was to review the indications, outcomes, and complications associated with the anterior approach for open reduction of these fractures. METHODS: Our protocol was registered at PROSPERO: CRD42023446923. MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Clinicaltrials.gov, and Cochrane Library were searched from database inception to search date (December 2023) and screened in duplicate for relevant studies. Data were collected regarding patient demographics, indications for open reduction, Flynn's functional and cosmetic outcomes, and complications. Study quality was assessed using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies Criteria. RESULTS: A total of 19 studies involving 483 patients were included. One study was classified as Level 2 evidence, ten as Level 3, and eight as Level 4. The mean MINORS score was 13.05±3.47. The primary indication for open reduction was failed closed reduction, observed in 46% of patients. 97.7% and 98.6% of patients achieved Flynn's functional and cosmetic satisfactory results, respectively. The postsurgical neurovascular injury rate was 1.4%. One patient required reintervention. CONCLUSION: The anterior approach is safe and effective for managing pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures requiring open reduction. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Systematic review of Level 2-4 evidence studies.

Surgical Approach Does Not Influence Instability Risk in Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: Although the direct anterior (DA) approach has increased in popularity for primary total hip arthroplasty (THA), there is limited evidence regarding its use for revision THA. It is unknown whether the dislocation benefit seen in the primary setting translates to revision cases. METHODS: This retrospective review compared the dislocation rates of revision THA performed through DA versus postero-lateral (PL) approaches at a single institution (2011 to 2021). Exclusion criteria included revision for instability, ≥ 2 prior revisions, approaches other than DA or PL, and placement of dual-mobility or constrained liners. There were 182 hips in 173 patients that met the inclusion criteria. The average follow-up was 6.5 years (range, 2 to 8 years). RESULTS: There was a trend toward more both-component revisions being performed through the PL approach. There were no differences in dislocation rates between the DA revision and PL revision cohorts, which were 8.1% (5 of 72) and 7.5% (9 of 120), respectively (P = .999). Dislocation trended lower when the revision approach was discordant from the primary approach compared to cases where primary and revision had a concordant approach (4.9 versus 8.5%), but this was not statistically significant (P = .740). No significant differences were found in return to operating room, 90-day emergency department visits, or 90-day readmissions. However, the length of stay was significantly shorter in patients who had DA revisions after a primary PL procedure (P = .021). CONCLUSIONS: Dislocation rates following revision THA did not differ between the DA and PL approaches irrespective of the primary approach. Surgeons should choose their revision approach based on their experience and the specific needs of the patient.

Treatment of Ulnar Coronoid Process Fracture Using the Anterior Neurovascular Interval Approach: A Retrospective Clinical Study with Short- to Mid-term Follow-up.

OBJECTIVE: Numerous surgical techniques for addressing ulnar coronoid process fractures are available; however, a consensus on the optimal approach remains elusive. This study aimed to use the anterior neurovascular interval approach for the surgical management of ulnar coronoid process fractures and to evaluate its clinical outcomes over short- to mid-term follow-up. METHODS: This retrospective clinical study included 20 patients with ulnar coronoid process fractures who were treated using the anterior neurovascular interval approach between January 2018 and December 2022. Participants comprised 16 males and four females, aged between 20 and 64 years (mean, 34.3 ± 12.44 years). Clinical and radiological evaluations were based on elbow joint range of motion (ROM), Visual analogue scale (VAS), and Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS). A paired t-test was used to compare the pre-operative and final follow-up VAS and MEPS scores. RESULTS: The follow-up duration for all patients was at least 12 months (average, 12.65 ± 1.60 months). At the final follow-up, measurements of elbow ROM included a mean extension of 2.85 ± 3.17°, mean flexion of 135 ± 7.25°, mean pronation of 86.4 ± 4.56°, and mean supination of 84.85 ± 5.54°. All participants reached their target MEPS, with an average score of 97.25 ± 4.72 points, and the final mean VAS score was 0.2 ± 0.52 points. The VAS score was significantly lower and MEPS score was higher at the final follow-up than those before surgery (p < 0.05). Throughout the follow-up period, all the fractures united, and the stability of the affected elbows was satisfactory. CONCLUSION: Employing the anterior neurovascular interval approach for open reduction and internal fixation to manage coronoid process fractures effectively facilitates anatomical restoration and robust fixation of ulnar coronoid process fractures.

Debate on direct-anterior vs posterior approach for hip hemiarthroplasty: The authors' insights.

We read and discussed the study entitled "Complication rates after direct anterior vs posterior approach for Hip Hemiarthroplasty in elderly individuals with femoral neck fractures" with great interest. The authors have done justice to the topic of comparison of anterior and posterior surgical approaches for bipolar hemiarthroplasty which has been an everlasting debate in the existing literature. However, there are certain aspects of this study that need clarification from the authors.

Does Artificial Intelligence Outperform Humans Using Fluoroscopic-Assisted Computer Navigation for Total Hip Arthroplasty?

Background: Successful total hip arthroplasty (THA) relies on the correct implant position. THA accuracy can be improved with the use of intraoperative fluoroscopic-assisted computer navigation. Artificial intelligence (AI) software may enhance fluoroscopic navigation; however, the accuracy of the AI compared to human-controlled software in assessing acetabular component position and leg length discrepancy (LLD) has not been studied. Methods: We analyzed 420 consecutive primary THAs performed by a single surgeon using fluoroscopic-assisted computer navigation software. The first cohort of 211 patients required inputs from a human technician (manual), while the second cohort of 209 patients used an automated version of the software controlled by AI. The intraoperative acetabular component placement (inclination and anteversion) and LLD were recorded and compared to the 2-week postoperative standing anterior-posterior pelvis radiograph. Results: Ninety-four percent (199/211) of cups in the manual cohort and 95% (198/209) of cups in the AI cohort were within the Lewinnek "safe-zone" (P = 1.0). In the manual cohort, 69% (146/211) of THAs had a final LLD within ±2 mm of the intraoperatively navigated LLD (ie, ΔLLD ≤2 mm). In the AI cohort, 66% (137/209) of THAs had a final LLD within ±2 mm of the intraoperatively navigated LLD (P = .47). Ninety-nine percent (209/211) of hips in the manual cohort and 98% (205/209) of hips in the AI cohort had a final LLD within ±5 mm of the intraoperatively navigated LLD (P = .45). Conclusions: Both AI and human-controlled versions of the same navigation platform were similarly accurate for navigating cup position within the Lewinnek "safe zone" and LLD accuracy.

Comparison of the Efficacy of Different Combined Therapies Based on Modified Core Decompression for the Treatment of Early-stage Nontraumatic Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head: A Retrospective Clinical Study.

OBJECTIVE: Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a severe orthopedic disease, which may cause severe hip dysfunction in later stage. Therefore, it is necessary to treat nontraumatic ONFH during the early stages. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy and survival rates of different combined therapies based on modified core decompression (CD) for early-stage nontraumatic ONFH. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study assessed 397 hips with ONFH who underwent different combined therapies based on modified CD in our institution between January 2010 and December 2017. Patients were classified into six groups based on treatment modalities, and were followed up at 1 year and 5 years postoperatively. Clinical outcomes, including Harris hip score (HHS) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities osteoarthritis index (WOMAC), were compared to evaluate the hip function and quick rehabilitation effect. Radiographic progression of ONFH and the incidence of total hip arthroplasty were analyzed to evaluate the survival rate of ONFH postoperatively. Statistical analyses were mainly performed with Kruskal-Wallis test, chi-square test and Kaplan-Meier method. RESULTS: HHS increased significantly in all groups but showed no significant differences among the six groups in the first years. The nonvascularized allogeneic fibula with bone grafting (NVAF + BG) and percutaneous femoral neck-head fenestration with bone grafting via the direct anterior approach (DAA + BG) groups had significantly higher HHS (p = 0.010; p = 0.025) and WOMAC function score (p < 0.001; p = 0.012) than the CD group 5 years postoperatively. Compared with the CD group, all the other groups showed statistically significant differences in radiographic progression (p < 0.001) and a higher survival rate with no significant difference (p = 0.569). CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrates the potential use of NVAF + BG and DAA + BG, may serve as a promising combined therapy for the treatment of early-stage nontraumatic ONFH.

Surgeons Experience Greater Physiologic Stress and Strain in the Direct Anterior Approach Than the Posterior Approach for Total Hip Arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: The direct anterior approach (DAA) and posterior approach (PA) for total hip arthroplasty (THA) have advantages and disadvantages, but their physiologic burden to the surgeon has not been quantified. This study was conducted to determine whether differences exist in surgeon physiological stress and strain during DAA in comparison to PA. METHODS: We evaluated a prospective cohort of 144 consecutive cases (67 DAA and 77 PA). There were 5, high-volume, fellowship-trained arthroplasty surgeons who wore a smart-vest that recorded cardiorespiratory data while performing primary THA DAA or PA. Heart rate (beats/minute), stress index (correlates with sympathetic activations), respiratory rate (respirations/minute), minute ventilation (L/min), and energy expenditure (calories) were recorded, along with patient body mass index and operative time. Continuous data was compared using t-tests or Mann Whitney U tests, and categorical data was compared with Chi-square or Fischer's exact tests. RESULTS: There were no differences in patient characteristics. Compared to PA, performing THA via DAA had a significantly higher surgeon stress index (17.4 versus 12.4; P < .001), heart rate (101 versus 98.3; P = .007), minute ventilation (21.7 versus 18.7; P < .001), and energy expenditure per hour (349 versus 295; P < .001). However, DAA had a significantly shorter operative time (71.4 versus 82.1; P = .001). CONCLUSIONS: Surgeons experience significantly higher physiological stress and strain when performing DAA compared to PA for primary THA. This study provides objective data on energy expenditure that can be factored into choice of approach, case order, and scheduling preferences, and provides insight into the work done by the surgeon.

Total blood loss after hip hemiarthroplasty for femoral neck fracture: Anterior versus posterior approach.

INTRODUCTION: Femoral neck fractures constitute a public health problem due to significant associated morbidity and mortality amongst the ageing population. Perioperative blood loss can increase this morbidity. Blood loss, as well as the influence that the surgical approach exerts on it, remains poorly evaluated. We therefore conducted a retrospective comparative study in order to: (1) compare total blood loss depending on whether the patients were operated on using an anterior or posterior approach, (2) compare the transfusion rates, operating times and hospital stays between these two groups and, (3) analyze dislocation rates. HYPOTHESIS: Total blood loss is greater from an anterior approach following a hip hemiarthroplasty for femoral neck fracture, compared to the posterior approach. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This retrospective single-center comparative study included 137 patients operated on by hip hemiarthroplasty between December 2020 and June 2021, and seven patients were excluded. One hundred and thirty patients were analyzed: 69 (53.1%) had been operated on via the anterior Hueter approach (AA) and 61 (46.9%) via the posterior Moore approach (PA). The analysis of total blood loss was based on the OSTHEO formula to collect perioperative "hidden" blood loss. The risk of early dislocation (less than 6 months) was also analyzed. RESULTS: Total blood loss was similar between the two groups, AA: 1626±506mL versus PA: 1746±692mL (p=0.27). The transfusion rates were also similar between the two groups, AA: 23.2% versus PA: 31.1% (p=0.31) as well as the duration of hospitalization, AA: 8.5±3.2 versus PA: 8.2±3.3 days (p=0.54). The operating time was shorter in the PA group (Δ=10.3±14.1minutes [p<0.001]) with a greater risk of early dislocation when the patient was operated on by PA with AA: 9.8% versus PA: 1.4% (p=0.03). CONCLUSION: This study does not demonstrate any influence of the approach (anterior or posterior) on total blood loss. Transfusion rates and length of hospitalization were similar between the groups with a slightly shorter operating time but a greater risk of early dislocations after posterior hemiarthroplasty in a population at high anesthesia-related risk. LEVEL OF PROOF: III, comparative study of continuous series.

Reliability and accuracy of intraoperative fluoroscopy assessment of acetabular cup anteversion in supine direct anterior approach total hip arthroplasty.

Poor implantation positioning of hip prostheses is considered the primary factor affecting postoperative joint wear. Cup anteversion in direct anterior approach (DAA) total hip arthroplasty (THA) is often excessive. Intraoperative fluoroscopy (IF) are effective for improving implant placement accuracy. This study aimed to analyze IF's reliability and accuracy in assessing intraoperative anteversion. Sixty-two consecutive hips underwent primary THA utilizing DAA alongside IF for cup placement. Intraoperative anteversion was measured using IF images, while postoperative CT and standard anteroposterior (AP) radiographs were used to calculate true anteversion component angles. Differences and correlations between intraoperative and true anteversions were analyzed, and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) determined the inter- and intra-observer reliabilities. Excellent intra- and inter-observer reliabilities were observed for all radiographic and CT methods (ICC > 0.9). Strong correlations (PCC > 0.6) existed between anteversion measured on IF image and postoperative CT and AP pelvic measurements. Intraoperative anteversion measured on IF images (16.8 ± 3.2°) was smaller than anteversion measured postoperatively on AP X-rays (21.3 ± 4.7°, P < 0.001) and CT (22.0 ± 4.9°, P < 0.001), with average differences of 4.5°and 5.3°, respectively. Under several influencing factors, the accuracy of IF in assessing cup anteversion in DAA-THA may be limited. However, this still requires large-sample experiments for verification.

Anterior Minimally Invasive Approach (AMIS) for Total Hip Arthroplasty: Analysis of the First 1000 Consecutive Patients Operated at a High Volume Center.

(1) Background: Direct anterior approach (DAA) has recently acquired popularity through improvements such as the anterior minimally invasive surgical technique (AMIS). This retrospective study examines the first 1000 consecutive THAs performed utilizing the AMIS approach in a high-volume center between 2012 and 2017. (2) Methods: 1000 consecutive THAs performed at a single institution utilizing the AMIS approach were retrospectively analyzed with a minimum five-year follow-up. Full evaluation of demographic information, clinical parameters, intraoperative complications, and radiological examinations are reported. (3) Results: Overall complication rate was 9.4% (94/1000), including 8 dislocations, 57 femoral-cutaneous nerve injuries, 12 intraoperative femoral fractures, 9 infections and 8 leg length discrepancy. Implant survival rates were 98.5% at 1 year, 97.5% at 3 years, 97% at 5 years, and 95.3% at 7 years. Causes of failure included periprosthetic fractures (0.8%), implant dislocations (0.6%), septic loosening (0.5%), aseptic mobilizations (0.2%), and symptomatic limb length discrepancies (0.2%). (4) Conclusions: Controversies persist around the direct anterior approach (DAA) for THA, primarily regarding the increased complications rate during the learning curve. However, this study advocates for widespread adoption of the DAA approach. The results demonstrate acceptable complication rates and remarkable functional outcomes, affirming its viability in the broader orthopedic patient population.

Surgical Management of a Three-Month-Old Mal-United Dubberley Type 2A Distal Humerus Fracture: A Case Report.

Fractures of the capitellum and trochlea are not common in orthopedic trauma and pose certain difficulties to address and manage. On primary x-rays, these fractures are commonly missed, and patients may be treated inadequately resulting in a restricted range of motion. The current case report presents the surgical outcome and challenges faced while managing a 30-year-old male patient with a mal-united capitellum, trochlea, and lateral condyle of humerus fracture. The patient had come with complaints of a restricted range of motion in his dominant hand which affected his livelihood. After undergoing adequate investigations, the patient was posted for an open reduction and internal fixation. The approach used for the procedure and the challenges faced during the surgery have been elaborated in the case report. The patient had shown an increase in the range of motion which was maintained at six- and nine-month follow-ups. Thus, it states that patients with trochlea and capitellum fractures presenting late and having a restricted range of motion can be managed adequately with good outcomes after proper planning.

Is There a Learning Curve for the 5-Year Implant Survival Rate of Total Hip Arthroplasty Using the Direct Anterior Approach With a Traction Table? A Prospective Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: The direct anterior approach (DAA) for total hip arthroplasty (THA) is attracting attention as a minimally invasive surgery, but the learning curve to master this approach is a concern, and its effect on long-term results is unknown. The purpose of this prospective cohort study was to clarify how the learning curve affects the 5-year results of DAA THA with a traction table. METHODS: Of 402 THA cases using DAA with a mobile traction table and fluoroscopy, 249 cases composed of the first 50 cases for each surgeon were assessed during a learning curve, and 153 cases were evaluated after more than 50 cases of experience. RESULTS: The 5-year-implant survival rate was 99.2% both during and after the learning curve. The 2-year complication rate in the learning curve group was 8.9 versus 5.9%, which was not statistically significant. The 2-to-5-year complication rates also did not differ between the cohorts (0 versus 0.7%). Both groups demonstrated decreased complication rates when comparing 2-year complications to 2-to-5-year complications. Clinical scores significantly improved by 2 years and were maintained at 5 years in both groups. The cup safe-zone success rates were 96.4% during the learning curve and 98.7% after the learning curve. The stem safe-zone success rates were 97.2% during the learning curve and 96.1% after the learning curve. Surgical time was approximately 20 minutes shorter after the first 50 cases than during the learning curve (70.8 versus 90.6 minutes, P = .001). Intraoperative blood loss was significantly less after the learning curve than during the learning curve. CONCLUSIONS: This study implies that the learning curve affects perioperative results such as surgical time and intraoperative blood loss, but has little effect on short-term results up to 2 years after surgery and no effect on mid-term results from 2 to 5 years after surgery.