Use of teriparatide prior to lumbar fusion surgery lowers two-year complications for patients with poor bone health.

INTRODUCTION: Poor bone health can create challenges in management which are amplified for patients undergoing spinal fusion. Although previously shown to improve outcomes postoperatively, the impact of preoperative teriparatide use on long-term complications remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the complication rates within two years of surgery for osteoporotic and osteopenic patients using teriparatide prior to lumbar fusion procedures. METHODS: Patients with poor bone health undergoing any lumbar fusion surgery at a single institution between 2008 and 2018 were identified and subsequently divided into two groups as teriparatide and non-teriparatide group. Baseline demographics, patient and surgery related factors, and two-year complications were collected through a retrospective chart review. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to evaluate the association between teriparatide usage and development of any related postoperative complication. RESULTS: A total of 42 and 114 patients were identified for the teriparatide and non-teriparatide groups, respectively. The median age (IQR) for the teriparatide group was 62 years (55.8-68.8), while the non-teriparatide group had a median (IQR) age of 70 years (64-75.8). Overall, there were no statistically significant differences in terms of individual complications between the groups. However, on adjusted regression analysis, teriparatide use was associated with significantly lower odds of related complications for lumbar fusion patients (p = 0.049). CONCLUSION: Teriparatide use prior to lumbar fusion procedures resulted in reduced rate of osteoporosis-related complications within two years postoperatively. Results suggest improved outcomes might be seen in patients with osteopenia and osteoporosis when pre-treating with teriparatide.

Osteoporosis-related Vertebral Fragility Fractures: A Review and Analysis of the American Orthopaedic Association's Own the Bone Database.

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study of the Own the Bone database which is a fracture liaison service designed to improve recognition and treatment of osteoporosis. OBJECTIVE: To use the Own the Bone (OTB) database to 1) examine the specific demographics of patients presenting with a low-energy clinical vertebral fracture (VFX) and 2) compare demographic and fracture-specific risk factors between patients with clinical VFX versus patients with nonvertebral low-energy fracture (NVFX). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Large database studies have described risk factors for developing VFX. It is well described that a history of previous VFX portends an increased risk of future VFX. Few studies have reported cohorts from a fracture liaison service such as the OTB initiative. METHODS: 35,039 unique cases of fragility fracture occurred between 2009 and 2016 and were included in analysis. VFX accounted for 3395 (9.9%) of the presenting fractures at OTB enrollment. The demographics, lifestyle factors, medication use, and fracture-specific data for patients in the OTB registry with vertebral fractures were summarized and then statistically compared to those with nonvertebral fragility fractures. RESULTS: The majority of VFX patients were Caucasian, postmenopausal women (74.4%). There was an increased likelihood of presenting with a vertebral fracture in patients who sustained a previous VFX after the age of 50, while patients who sustained a prior nonvertebral fracture (NVFX) were more likely to present with a subsequent NVFX. After controlling for patients with a history of fracture after the age of 50, VFX patients (vs. NVFX) were more likely to be age 70-79, class 1 obesity, with a history of taking anti-osteoporotic prescription medications. CONCLUSIONS: Multiple factors were associated with a significantly increased risk of VFX compared with NVFX. Understanding the risk factors unique to fragility VFX is a critical component for targeting "at-risk" patients and preventing future osteoporosis-related fractures and their consequences. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4.

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty for patients with glenohumeral osteoarthritis secondary to glenoid dysplasia.

The purpose is to report the clinical and radiographic outcomes, complications and reoperations of reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) for glenoid dysplasia. All patients who had undergone RSA for osteoarthritis secondary to underlying glenoid dysplasia were retrospectively identified. The study included twelve shoulders (11 patients), with a mean (SD) patient age of 62.2 (13.2) years and median (range) clinical follow-up of 28 (24-34) months. RSA resulted in substantial improvements in pain and function. At most recent follow-up, there was a significant improvement in forward flexion range of motion (ROM), a non-significant improvement in internal rotation ROM, and no changes in external rotation ROM. The mean (SD) SST and ASES scores were 7.8 (3.7) and 73.5 (20.4), respectively. There were no reoperations or radiographic loosening. The results were excellent in 1 case, satisfactory in 8, and unsatisfactory in 3. RSA provides acceptable function and good pain relief, though patients should be advised that shoulder rotation may be somewhat limited.

Outcomes and Direct Costs of Needle Aponeurotomy, Collagenase Injection, and Fasciectomy in the Treatment of Dupuytren Contracture.

PURPOSE: The aims of our study were to evaluate the rates and predictors of reinterventions and direct costs of 3 common treatments of Dupuytren contractures-needle aponeurotomy, collagenase injection, and surgical fasciectomy. METHODS: A retrospective review identified 848 interventions for Dupuytren contracture in 350 patients treated by a single surgeon from 2005 to 2016. The treatments included needle aponeurotomy (NA) (n = 444), collagenase injection (n = 272), and open fasciectomy (n = 132). We collected information on demographics, contracture details, and comorbidities. Outcomes included reintervention rates, time to reintervention, and direct cost of treatments. Standardized costs were calculated by applying 2017 Medicare reimbursement to professional services and cost-to-charge ratios to hospital charges. RESULTS: Demographics were similar among the 3 treatment groups. The fifth finger was the most commonly affected digit including 43% of the NA, 60% of the collagenase, and 45% of the fasciectomy groups. The 2-year rates of reintervention following NA, collagenase, and fasciectomy were 24%, 41%, and 4%, respectively, and the 5-year rates were 61%, 55%, and 4%, respectively. Younger age and severity of preintervention proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint contracture were predictive of reintervention in the NA and collagenase groups. The standardized direct costs for NA, collagenase, and fasciectomy were $624, $4,189, and $5,291, respectively. Including all reinterventions, the cumulative costs per digit following NA, collagenase, and surgery at 5 years were $1,540, $5,952, and $5,507, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Treatment with collagenase resulted in the highest rate of reintervention at 2 years, comparable reintervention rates to NA at 5 years, and the highest cumulative costs. The NA was the least expensive and resulted in longer duration before reintervention compared with collagenase. More severe PIP joint contractures and younger age at time of initial intervention were predictive of reintervention after collagenase and NA. Fasciectomy has a high initial cost but the lowest reintervention rate. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.

A Review and Clinical Perspective of the Impact of Osteoporosis on the Spine.

INTRODUCTION: Osteopenia and osteoporosis are common conditions in the United States. The health consequences of low bone density can be dire, from poor surgical outcomes to increased mortality rates following a fracture. SIGNIFICANCE: This article highlights the impact low bone density has on spine health in terms of vertebral fragility fractures and its adverse effects on elective spine surgery. It also reviews the clinical importance of bone health assessment and optimization. RESULTS: Vertebral fractures are the most common fragility fractures with significant consequences related to patient morbidity and mortality. Additionally, a vertebral fracture is the best predictor of a subsequent fracture. These fractures constitute sentinel events in osteoporosis that require further evaluation and treatment of the patient's underlying bone disease. In addition to fractures, osteopenia and osteoporosis have deleterious effects on elective spine surgery from screw pullout to fusion rates. Adequate evaluation and treatment of a patient's underlying bone disease in these situations have been shown to improve patient outcomes. CONCLUSION: With an increased understanding of the prevalence of low bone mass and its consequences as well an understanding of how to identify these patients and appropriately intervene, spine surgeons can effectively decrease the rates of adverse health outcomes related to low bone mass.

Prospective Evaluation of Radiculitis following Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2 Use for Transforaminal Interbody Arthrodesis in Spine Surgery.

Study Design: Prospective observational cohort study. Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) in transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) with regard to postoperative radiculitis. Overview of Literature: Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) is being used increasingly as an alternative to iliac crest autograft in spinal arthrodesis. Recently, the use of BMP in TLIF has been examined, but concerns exist that the placement of BMP close to the nerve roots may cause postoperative radiculitis. Furthermore, prospective studies regarding the use of BMP in TLIF are lacking. Methods: This prospective study included 77 patients. The use of BMP-2 was determined individually, and demographic and operative characteristics were recorded. Leg pain was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain and the Sciatica Bothersome Index (SBI) with several secondary outcome measures. The outcome data were collected at each follow-up visit. Results: Among the 77 patients, 29 were administered with BMP. Postoperative leg pain significantly improved according to VAS leg and SBI scores for the entire cohort, and no clinically significant differences were observed between the BMP and control groups. The VAS back, Oswestry Disability Index, and Short-Form 36 scores also significantly improved. A significantly increased 6-month fusion rate was noted in the BMP group (82.8% vs. 55.3%), but no significant differences in fusion rate were observed at the 12- and 24-month follow-up. Heterotopic ossification was observed in seven patients: six patients and one patient in the BMP and control groups, respectively (20.7% vs. 2.1%). However, no clinical effect was observed. Conclusions: In this prospective observational trial, the use of BMP in TLIF did not lead to significant postoperative radiculitis, as measured by VAS leg and SBI scores. Back pain and other functional outcome scores also improved, and no differences existed between the BMP and control groups. The careful use of BMP in TLIF appears to be both safe and effective.

Enterobacter Infection after Spine Surgery: An Institutional Experience.

BACKGROUND: Gram-negative surgical site infections (SSI) following spine surgery are becoming increasingly more common owing to a broad perioperative antibiotic usage targeting gram-positive organisms. Enterobacter species have been reported to be the most common gram-negative bacteria following spine surgery. METHODS: We queried our institutional database for Enterobacter SSIs after spine surgery at a single institution from 2009-2016. Relevant demographic, clinical, and operative variables were collected. We compared this cohort to patients who had non-Enterobacter SSI during the same period. RESULTS: Enterobacter species were isolated in 16 patients (9 males) diagnosed with SSI after undergoing spine surgery. This group represented 0.2% of all spine cases and 14.5% of all spinal SSIs. Seven patients (43.8%) required multiple irrigations and debridements (I&Ds) (range: 2-8), whereas only 17 of 94 patients (18.1%) with non-Enterobacter SSI required multiple I&Ds (range: 2-5, P = 0.043). Those infected with Enterobacter were associated with higher BMI (37.6 ± 12.7 vs. 31.7 ± 8, P = 0.036), earlier wound dehiscence (14.8 vs. 24.6 days, P = 0.01), polymicrobial infections (37.5% vs. 10.6%, P = 0.012), and longer length of stay (18 days [9.5-31.5] vs. 5 days [3-8], P = 0.01) when compared to non-Enterobacter SSI cohort. At an average of 24.2 months follow-up, all 15 surviving patients were infection free with no further revision surgeries needed. CONCLUSIONS: Enterobacter SSI cases were associated with higher BMI, earlier wound breakdown, polymicrobial infection and longer length of stay. Nevertheless, with vigilant surveillance and timely I&Ds, these challenging infections can be treated successfully with original implant retention in almost all cases.

Postoperative Seroma Formation After Posterior Cervical Fusion with Use of RhBMP-2: A Report of Two Cases.

CASE: We present 2 cases of postoperative seroma formation following posterior cervical fusion with the use of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2). CONCLUSION: Although some who advocate for the off-label use of rhBMP-2 in patients undergoing posterior cervical spine fusion believe it to be safe, relatively little has been published regarding complication rates. We believe that rhBMP-2 carries a risk of seroma formation in patients who undergo posterior cervical fusion, which necessitates the use of a postoperative drain. Surgeons should have a low threshold for obtaining postoperative magnetic resonance imaging in a symptomatic patient.

Revision anatomic shoulder arthroplasty with posterior capsular plication for correction of posterior instability.

BACKGROUND: Revision of failed anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty or hemiarthroplasty is a challenging procedure. Restoring adequate soft tissue balance in the revision setting can be particularly problematic. When persistent posterior instability is encountered in the revision setting, options include changing component position or size, posterior capsular plication (PCP), or conversion to a reverse arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to report the clinical and radiographic outcomes, complications, and reoperations of PCP performed in the setting of revision anatomic shoulder arthroplasty. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between 1975 and 2013, 15 patients (16 shoulders) had PCP during revision anatomic shoulder arthroplasty. Indications for revision arthroplasty included posterior instability in 15, glenoid loosening in 3, polyethylene wear in 2, and glenoid erosion in 1 shoulder. The mean (standard deviation (SD)) age was 60.1 (12.6) years, and the median (range) follow-up was 68 (2-228) months. A retrospective chart review was conducted to obtain all data. RESULTS: At the last follow-up, nine shoulders (56%) had absence of posterior radiographic subluxation. Five (31%) cases underwent reoperation due to persistent posterior instability. Complications were observed in seven (44%) cases. Complete pain relief was achieved in four (25%) shoulders. The mean (SD) postoperative forward flexion, external rotation, and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score were 110° (41°), 40° (29°), and 62.1 (21.9), respectively. Results were excellent in two (13%), satisfactory in seven (44%), and unsatisfactory in seven (44%) shoulders. CONCLUSIONS: PCP to correct posterior instability during revision anatomic shoulder arthroplasty had an unacceptably high failure rate. In these circumstances, consideration should instead be given to conversion to a reverse shoulder arthroplasty.

Anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty with posterior capsular plication versus reverse shoulder arthroplasty in patients with biconcave glenoids: A matched cohort study.

PURPOSE: To compare the outcomes of total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) with posterior capsule plication (PCP) and reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) in patients with primary osteoarthritis, posterior subluxation, and bone loss (Walch B2). PATIENTS AND METHODS: All shoulders undergoing anatomic TSA with PCP were retrospectively identified (group 1, G1) and compared to shoulders undergoing RSA (group 2, G2) for Walch B2 osteoarthritis. There were 15 patients in G1 (mean (SD) age and follow-up of 70.5 (7.5) years and 42.8 (18.4) months, respectively) and 16 patients in G2 (mean (SD) age and follow-up of 72.6 (5.4) years and 35.1 (14.2) months, respectively). RESULTS: Both groups had substantial improvements in pain and function. In G1, results were excellent in 80% and satisfactory in 20%, compared to 81% and 6% in G2, respectively ( p = 0.2). The mean (SD) American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score was 91.2 (6.7) and 80.3 (14.3) in G1 and G2, respectively ( p = 0.08). The mean Simple Shoulder Test score was 10.6 in G1 and 8.5 in G2 ( p = 0.01). There were no reoperations in either group, but G1 had seven postoperative complications. CONCLUSIONS: The outcomes of TSA with PCP are comparable to RSA in patients with osteoarthritis and biconcave glenoids. However, TSA leads to more complications while RSA leads to lower functional outcomes.

Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty in Weight-Bearing Shoulders of Wheelchair-Dependent Patients: Outcomes and Complications at 2 to 5 years.

BACKGROUND: Wheelchair-dependent patients rely on their upper extremities for mobility and transfers. This entails the heavy use of upper extremities as weight-bearing joints, leading to shoulder overuse with increased prevalence of rotator cuff-related disorders and ultimately to challenging cases for shoulder surgeons when a joint replacement is needed. OBJECTIVE: To report the outcomes of reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) in wheelchair-dependent patients with arthritis and rotator cuff tears. DESIGN: Retrospective case series/cross-sectional study. SETTING: Tertiary university hospital. PATIENT (PARTICIPANTS): All wheelchair-dependent patients undergoing RSA between 2004 and 2013. METHODS/INTERVENTIONS: Of the 22 wheelchair-dependent patients undergoing RSA, 18 of them had a minimum follow-up of 2 years. There were 9 men and 9 women, with a mean (standard deviation) age and length of follow-up of 68 (8.5) years and 36 (24-63) months. A retrospective chart review and cross-sectional phone calls were conducted to obtain all data. OUTCOMES: Pain, range of motion, functional scores (Neer scale, simple shoulder test, and American Shoulder and Elbow Society), satisfaction, complications/reoperations, radiographic loosening, and 90-day mortality/morbidity. RESULTS: RSA resulted in a significant improvement in pain (P = .02) and nonsignificant improvements in forward flexion (P = .3) and external rotation (P = .07). There were 3 (16%) excellent, 12 (63%) satisfactory, and 4 (21%) unsatisfactory results. The mean (standard deviation) postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Society score was 56.5 (16.5). All patients stated that they would undergo RSA again. There were no surgically related complications or reoperations. The 90-day mortality and morbidity rates were 0% and 26%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: RSA is a safe and effective procedure in wheelchair-dependent patients who use their shoulders for weight-bearing purposes. Although functional scores are not optimal and medical complications are not uncommon, 79% of patients had an excellent or satisfactory result. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty in Patients With Amputation or Paralysis of the Contralateral Upper Extremity (One-Arm Patients).

BACKGROUND: Theoretically, patients with only one functional arm secondary to contralateral amputation or paralysis will subject their only functional upper extremity to increased loads. This could become an issue after reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA). However, there are no reported data on the implant survival or function for patients with a nonfunctional contralateral upper extremity. OBJECTIVE: To report the outcomes of RSA in patients with contralateral upper extremity amputation or paralysis. DESIGN: Retrospective case series. SETTING: Tertiary university hospital. PATIENTS: All patients who underwent RSA between January 2004 and December 2013. METHODS: Of 1335 RSA procedures performed, 5 patients had a minimum 2-year follow-up and nonfunctional contralateral upper extremity. There were 3 men and 2 women, with a mean (standard deviation) age and length of follow-up of 72.4 (7.5) years and 56.4 (24-132) months. Two of the patients had a contralateral upper extremity amputation, and the other 3 had contralateral upper extremity paralysis as a result of stroke, traumatic brain injury, and traumatic brachial plexus injury at birth. MAIN OUTCOMES: Pain, range of motion, functional scores (Simple Shoulder Test, American Shoulder and Elbow Society and Quick-Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand), satisfaction, complications/reoperations, and radiographic loosening. RESULTS: RSA resulted in substantial improvement in pain (P = .008), forward flexion (P = .02), and external range of motion (P = .01). The mean (standard deviation) Simple Shoulder Test, American Shoulder and Elbow Society, and Quick-Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores were 9.8 (1.3), 82 (13), and 17.8 (13.4), respectively. The results were excellent in 3, satisfactory in 1, and unsatisfactory in 1 patient (due only to external rotation limited to 10°). Subjectively, all 5 patients felt greatly improved and stated they would undergo RSA again. There were no complications or reoperations. There were no shoulders with component loosening. CONCLUSIONS: RSA seems to be a safe, effective, and successful surgical procedure for patients with a nonfunctional contralateral upper extremity. Studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up will hopefully validate the present findings. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.