The Impact of Time and State Opioid Legislation on Opioid Prescription Filling in Total Ankle Arthroplasty.

Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) is an increasingly utilized treatment for ankle arthritis, and opioids are commonly used as part of perioperative pain control. However, many states have enacted opioid-limiting legislation to reduce perioperative opioid prescribing. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of time and state legislation on perioperative opioid prescribing in TAA. This study is a retrospective, observational review of 90-day perioperative opioid prescribing in 1,829 patients undergoing TAA throughout the United States using a large insurance database. Initial and cumulative volumes and rates of opioid prescription filling were recorded along with baseline patient and operative characteristics. Dates of state legislation enactment were also recorded. Student t-tests, analysis of variance, and multivariable linear and logistic regression were utilized to analyze the impact of time and state legislation on opioid prescription filling. In the 90-day perioperative time period, initial and cumulative opioid prescription filling in oxycodone 5-mg equivalents has decreased significantly from 2010 (63.8 initial and 163.3 cumulative) to 2019 (41.1 initial and 67.2 cumulative). States with opioid-limiting legislation saw larger and more significant reductions in initial and cumulative opioid prescription filling preact to postact (63.3-50.6 with legislation vs 61.4-51.9 without legislation initial and 146.4-93.3 with legislation vs 125.1-108.6 without legislation cumulative). This study demonstrates that foot and ankle surgeons in states with opioid-limiting legislation have responded by significantly reducing 90-day perioperative opioid prescribing in TAA. These results encourage states without legislation to enact opioid-specific laws to reduce opioid prescribing.

Regional Anesthesia Associated With Decreased Inpatient and Outpatient Opioid Demand in Tibial Plateau Fracture Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Regional anesthesia (RA) has been used to reduce pain and opioid usage in elective orthopedic surgery. The hypothesis of this study was that RA would be associated with decreased opioid demand in tibial plateau fracture surgery. METHODS: Inpatient opioid consumption and 90-day outpatient opioid prescribing in all patients ≥18 years of age undergoing tibial plateau fracture surgery from July 2013 to July 2018 (n = 264) at a single, level I trauma center were recorded. The presence or absence of perioperative RA was noted. Of 60 patients receiving RA, 52 underwent peripheral nerve blockade (PNB) with single-shot sciatic-popliteal (40.0%; n = 24), femoral (26.7%; n = 16), adductor canal (18.3%; n = 11), or fascia iliaca (1.7%; n = 1) block with ropivacaine. Ten patients received epidural analgesia (EA) with either single-shot spinal (11.7%; n = 7) blocks or continuous epidural (5.0%; n = 3). Additional baseline and treatment characteristics were recorded, including age, sex, race, body mass index (BMI), smoking, chronic opioid use, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, injury mechanism, additional injuries, open injury, and additional inpatient surgery. Statistical models, including multivariable generalized linear models with propensity score weighting to adjust for baseline patient and treatment characteristics, were used to assess perioperative opioid demand with and without RA. RESULTS: RA was associated with reduced inpatient opioid usage from 0 to 24 hours postoperatively of approximately 5.2 oxycodone 5-mg equivalents (0.74 incident rate ratio [IRR]; 0.63-0.86 CI; P < .001) and from 24 to 48 hours postoperatively of approximately 2.9 oxycodone 5-mg equivalents (0.78 IRR; 0.64-0.95 CI; P = .014) but not at 48 to 72 hours postoperatively. From 1 month preoperatively to 2 weeks postoperatively, RA was associated with reduced outpatient opioid prescribing of approximately 24.0 oxycodone 5-mg equivalents (0.87; 0.75-0.99; P = .044) and from 1 month preoperatively to 90 days postoperatively of approximately 44.0 oxycodone 5-mg equivalents (0.83; 0.71-0.96; P = .011), although there was no significant difference from 1 month preoperatively to 6 weeks postoperatively. There were no cases of acute compartment syndrome in this cohort. CONCLUSIONS: In tibial plateau fracture surgery, RA was associated with reduced inpatient opioid consumption up to 48 hours postoperatively and reduced outpatient opioid demand up to 90 days postoperatively without an associated risk of acute compartment syndrome. RA should be considered for patients undergoing tibial plateau fracture fixation.

Is Advanced Imaging to Assess Rotator Cuff Integrity Before Shoulder Arthroplasty Cost-effective? A Decision Modeling Study.

BACKGROUND: Shoulder arthroplasty is increasingly performed for patients with symptoms of glenohumeral arthritis. Advanced imaging may be used to assess the integrity of the rotator cuff preoperatively because a deficient rotator cuff may be an indication for reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) rather than anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). However, the cost-effectiveness of advanced imaging in this setting has not been analyzed. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: In this cost-effectiveness modeling study of TSA, all patients underwent history and physical examination, radiography, and CT, and we compared (1) no further advanced imaging, (2) selective MRI, (3) MRI for all, (4) selective ultrasound, and (5) ultrasound for all. METHODS: A simple chain decision model was constructed with a base-case 65-year-old patient with a 7% probability of a large-to-massive rotator cuff tear and a follow-up of 5 years. Strategies were compared using the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) with a willingness to pay of both USD 50,000 and 100,000 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) used, in accordance with the Second Panel on Cost-Effectiveness in Health and Medicine. Diagnostic test sensitivity and specificity were extracted from published systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and patient utilities were obtained using the Cost-Effectiveness Analysis Registry from the Center for the Evaluation of Value and Risk in Health. Final patient states were categorized as either inappropriate or appropriate based on the actual rotator cuff integrity and type of arthroplasty performed. Additionally, to evaluate the real-world impact of intraoperative determination of rotator cuff status, a secondary analysis was performed where all patients indicated for TSA underwent intraoperative rotator cuff examination to determine appropriate implant selection. RESULTS: Selective MRI (ICER of USD 40,964) and MRI for all (ICER of USD 79,182/QALY) were the most cost-effective advanced imaging strategies at a willingness to pay (WTP) of USD 50,000/QALY gained and 100,000/QALY gained, respectively. Overall, quality-adjusted life years gained by advanced soft tissue imaging were minimal: 0.04 quality-adjusted life years gained for MRI for all. Secondary analysis accounting for the ability of the surgeon to alter the treatment plan based on intraoperative rotator cuff evaluation resulted in the no further advanced imaging strategy as the dominant strategy as it was the least costly (USD 23,038 ± 2259) and achieved the greatest health utility (0.99 ± 0.05). The sensitivity analysis found the original model was the most sensitive to the probability of a rotator cuff tear in the population, with the value of advanced imaging increasing as the prevalence increased (rotator cuff tear prevalence greater than 12% makes MRI for all cost-effective at a WTP of USD 50,000/QALY). CONCLUSION: In the case of diagnostic ambiguity based on physical exam, radiographs, and CT alone, having both TSA and RSA available in the operating room appears more cost-effective than obtaining advanced soft tissue imaging preoperatively. However, performing selective MRI to assess rotator cuff integrity to indicate RSA or TSA is cost-effective if surgical preparedness, patient expectations, and implant availability preclude the ability to switch implants intraoperatively. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, economic and decision analysis.

The Value Added of Advanced Imaging in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex Pathology.

PURPOSE: Pathology of the triangular fibrocartilage complex is a prevalent cause of ulnar-sided wrist pain that presents a diagnostic challenge. We hypothesized that a history and physical examination (H&P) would be more cost-effective alone or with diagnostic injection than with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or magnetic resonance arthrogram (MRA) in the diagnosis and treatment of a symptomatic triangular fibrocartilage complex abnormality. METHODS: A simple-chain decision analysis model was constructed to assess simulated subjects with ulnar-sided wrist pain and normal radiographs using several diagnostic algorithms: H&P alone, H&P + injection, H&P with delayed advanced imaging (MRI or MRA), and H&P + injection with delayed advanced imaging (MRI or MRA). Three years after diagnosis, effectiveness was calculated in Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand-adjusted life years. Costs were extracted from a commercial insurance database using US dollars. A probabilistic sensitivity analysis with 10,000 second-order trials with sampling of parameter distributions was performed. One-way and 2-way sensitivity analyses were performed. RESULTS: All strategies had similar mean effectiveness between 2.228 and 2.232 Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand-adjusted life years, with mean costs ranging from $5,584 (H&P alone) to $5,980 (H&P, injection, and MRA). History and physical examination alone or with injection were the most cost-effective strategies. History and physical examination alone was the most preferred diagnostic strategy, though H&P + injection and H&P with delayed MRA were preferred with adjustments in willingness-to-pay and parameter inputs. As willingness-to-pay increased considerably (>$65,000 per Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand-adjusted life year), inclusion of MRA became the most favorable strategy. CONCLUSIONS: Advanced imaging adds costs and provides minimal increases in effectiveness in the diagnosis and treatment of a symptomatic triangular fibrocartilage complex abnormality. The most cost-effective strategy is H&P, with or without diagnostic injection. Magnetic resonance arthrogram may be favored in situations with a high willingness-to-pay or poor examination characteristics. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Economic/Decision Analysis IV.

Regional anesthesia reduces inpatient and outpatient perioperative opioid demand in periarticular elbow surgery.

HYPOTHESIS: Regional anesthesia (RA) can be used to manage perioperative pain in the treatment of periarticular elbow fracture fixation. However, the opioid-sparing benefit is not well-characterized. The hypothesis of this study was that RA had reduced inpatient opioid consumption and outpatient opioid demand in patients who had undergone periarticular elbow fracture surgery. METHODS: This study retrospectively reviews inpatient opioid consumption and outpatient opioid demand in all patients aged ≥18 years at a single Level I trauma center undergoing fixation of periarticular elbow (distal humerus and proximal forearm) fracture surgery (n=418 patients). In addition to RA vs. no RA, additional patient and operative characteristics were recorded. Unadjusted and adjusted models were constructed to evaluate the impact of RA and other factors on inpatient opioid consumption and outpatient opioid demand. RESULTS: Adjusted models demonstrated decreases in inpatient opioid consumption postoperation in patients with RA (13.7 estimated oxycodone 5-mg equivalents or OEs without RA vs. 10.4 OEs with RA from 0 to 24 hours postoperation, P = .003; 12.3 vs. 9.2 OEs from 24 to 48 hours postoperation, P = .045). Estimated cumulative outpatient opioid demand differed significantly in patients with RA (166.1 vs. 132.1 OEs to 6 weeks, P = .002; and 181 vs. 138.6 OEs to 90 days, P < .001). DISCUSSION: In proximal forearm and distal humerus fracture surgery, RA was associated with decreased inpatient and outpatient opioid demand after adjusting for baseline patient and treatment characteristics. These results encourage utilization of perioperative RA to reduce opioid use.

Current Trends in Revision Hip Arthroplasty: Indications and Types of Components Revised.

BACKGROUND: The materials and techniques for both primary and revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) have changed over time. This study evaluated if the indications for revision THA, rates of components utilized (femoral or acetabulum, both, or head/liner exchange), length of stay (LOS), and payments to surgeons and facilities have also changed. METHODS: A retrospective study, utilizing the PearlDiver database, of 38,377 revision THA patients from January 2010 through December 2018 was performed. Data included the indication for revision, components revised (femoral or acetabulum, both, or head/liner exchange), LOS, and payments. Indications and components were analyzed by logistic regression (Dunnett's post hoc test). Revision totals were analyzed with a linear regression model. Analysis of variance assessed changes in LOS and payments. RESULTS: Patients' median age was 67 years (Q1-Q3: 59-74), and 58.7% were female. Revisions for dislocation decreased between 2010 and 2018 (odds ratio [OR] 0.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.68-0.98). Revisions for component loosening increased (OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.25-1.91). Dislocation remained the most common indication (19.3%), followed by PJI (17.3%) and loosening (17.1%). Both-component (OR:1.45; 95% CI:1.25-1.67) and femoral component only revisions increased; acetabular component only and head/liner exchanges decreased. Acetabular (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.47-0.70) and head/liner exchange (OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.20-0.43) revisions decreased, while both component exchange (OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.25-1.67) and femoral revisions (OR 1.17, 95% CI 0.99-1.37) increased. Average LOS (-0.68 days; P < .001) and surgeon payments decreased (-$261.8; P < .001) while facility payments increased ($4,211; P < .001). CONCLUSION: Indications for revision THA in this database study changed over time, with revision for dislocation decreasing and revision for loosening increasing over time. Both component and femoral revisions increased, and acetabular component and head/liner exchanges decreased. It is possible that these associations could be attributed to a number of details, the method of femoral fixation, surgical approach, and cementing, all of which require additional study.

Is primary total hip arthroplasty in patients with Down's syndrome associated with increased complications at 2 years follow-up?

INTRODUCTION: Previous reports on primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) in patients with Down's syndrome (DS) are often small and/or lack a comparison cohort, and thus it is challenging to draw meaningful conclusions about this group. The purpose of this study was to report on the post-operative complications in patients with DS undergoing primary THA, compared to a non-DS cohort. METHODS: In this retrospective study, we evaluated patients from 2010 to 2018 using a national database. We assessed surgical complications: closed reduction for dislocation, revision, resection, periprosthetic fracture, and infection in patients with a diagnosis of DS undergoing primary THA and compared them to a THA group of patients without DS. Patients undergoing THA for hip fractures were excluded. Complications were evaluated at 90 days and 2 years. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to adjust for age, sex, body mass index, and Charlson comorbidity index. RESULTS: At 90 days patients with DS had an increased risk of revision (OR 3.1, CI 1.14-8.41), but no significant risk of resection (OR 5.24, CI 0.73-37.8), closed reduction (OR 2.03, CI 0.28-14.59), infection (OR 1.48, CI 0.6-3.62), or periprosthetic fracture (OR 1.97, CI 0.27-14.14). At 2 years patients with DS had an increased risk of periprosthetic fracture (OR 5.88, CI 1.84-18.78), but no significant increased risk of revision (OR 1.82, CI 0.66-5.01), resection (OR 2.37, CI 0.33-17.17), or infection (OR 0.65, CI 0.2-2.07). CONCLUSIONS: Primary THA in patients with DS is associated with increased 90-day revision, and periprosthetic fracture at 2 years.

Regional anesthesia does not decrease inpatient or outpatient opioid demand in distal femur fracture surgery.

INTRODUCTION: Regional anesthesia (RA) is sometimes used to decrease pain and opioid consumption in distal femur fractures. However, the real-world impact of RA on inpatient opioid consumption and outpatient opioid demand is not well known. The hypothesis of this study is that RA would be associated with decreased inpatient opioid consumption and outpatient opioid demand. METHODS: This study evaluated inpatient post-operative opioid consumption (0-24 h, 24-48 h, 48-72 h) and outpatient opioid demand (discharge to 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 90 days) in all patients ages 18 and older undergoing operative treatment of distal femur fractures at a single institution from 7/2013 to 7/2018 (n = 230). Unadjusted and adjusted multivariable models were used to evaluate the impact of RA and other baseline patient and operative characteristics on inpatient opioid consumption and outpatient opioid demand. RESULTS: Adjusted models demonstrated a small, significant increase in inpatient opioid consumption in patients with RA compared to no RA (4.7 estimated OE's without RA vs 6.2 OE's with RA from 24- to 48-h post-op, p < 0.05) but otherwise no significant differences at other timepoints (6.7 estimated OE's without RA vs 6.9 OE's with RA from 0- to 24-h post-op and 4.5 vs 4.4 from 48- to 72-h post-op, p > 0.05). Estimated cumulative outpatient opioid demand was significantly higher in patients with RA from discharge to 6 weeks and to 90 days (55.8 OE's without RA vs 63.9 with RA from discharge to 2 weeks, p > 0.05; 74.9 vs 95.1 OE's to 6 weeks, and 85 vs 113.1 OE's to 90 days, p < 0.05). DISCUSSION: In distal femur fracture surgery, RA was associated with increased inpatient and outpatient opioid demand after adjusting for baseline patient and treatment characteristics. These results call into question the routine use of RA in distal femur fractures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective, therapeutic cohort study.

Regional anesthesia does not decrease opioid demand in pelvis and acetabulum fracture surgery.

INTRODUCTION: Patients with pelvic and acetabular fractures often have considerable pain in the perioperative period. Regional anesthesia (RA) including peripheral nerve blocks and spinal analgesia may reduce pain. However, the real-world impact of these modalities on inpatient opioid consumption and outpatient opioid demand is largely unknown. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of perioperative RA on inpatient opioid consumption and outpatient opioid demand. METHODS: This is a retrospective, observational review of inpatient opioid consumption and outpatient opioid demand in all patients ages 18 and older undergoing operative fixation of pelvic and acetabular fractures at a single Level, I trauma center from 7/1/2013-7/1/2018 (n = 205). Unadjusted and adjusted analyses were constructed to evaluate the impact of RA on inpatient opioid consumption and outpatient opioid demand while controlling for age, sex, race, body mass index (BMI), smoking, chronic opioid use, ASA score, injury mechanism, additional injuries, open injury, and additional inpatient surgery. RESULTS: Adjusted models demonstrated increases in inpatient opioid consumption in patients with RA (12.6 estimated OE's without RA vs 16.1 OE's with RA from 48 to 72 h post-op, p < 0.05) but no significant differences at other timepoints (17.5 estimated OE's without RA vs 16.8 OE's with RA from 0 to 24 h post-op, 15.3 vs 17.1 from 24 to 48 h post-op, p > 0.05). Estimated cumulative outpatient opioid demand was significantly higher in patients with RA at discharge to 90 days post-op (and 156.8 vs 207.9 OE's to 90 days, p < 0.05) but did not differ significantly before that time (121.5 OE's without RA vs 123.9 with RA from discharge to two weeks, 145.2 vs 177.2 OE's to 6 weeks, p > 0.05). DISCUSSION: In pelvis and acetabulum fracture surgery, RA was associated with increased inpatient and outpatient opioid demand after adjusting for baseline patient and treatment characteristics. Regional anesthesia may not be beneficial for these patients.

Mental health and substance use affect perioperative opioid demand in upper extremity trauma surgery.

BACKGROUND: Patients undergoing upper extremity fracture surgery often have postoperative pain that can be mitigated with opioid pain medications. Opioid misuse and abuse are growing concerns regarding the liberal use of opioids in the perioperative setting. The impact of mental health disorders and substance abuse on perioperative opioid demand is largely unknown. The purpose of this study is to describe perioperative opioid filling and risk factors for increased filling after upper extremity fractures. The study hypothesis is that poor mental health and substance abuse will be associated with increased opioid demand. METHODS: This is a retrospective, cohort study of 26,283 patients undergoing operative fixation of upper extremity fractures involving the proximal humerus through distal radius using a commercially available insurance database. Opioid prescription filling in oxycodone 5-mg equivalents and refills were tabulated from 1 month preoperation to 1 year postoperation. Multivariable linear and logistic regression models were constructed in R (Statistical Analysis Software) to evaluate associations between mental health and substance use disorders and opioid-related outcomes with adjustment for baseline patient and treatment factors such as age, sex, comorbidities, and fracture location. RESULTS: Of the 26,283 patients in the cohort, 79.9%, 32.6%, and 83.1% filled at least 1 opioid prescription in the 1-month preoperative to 90-day postoperative, 3-month postoperative to 1-year postoperative, and 1-month preoperative to 1-year postoperative time frames, respectively. Mean opioid volume prescribed during those time frames was 103.7, 53.5, and 156.9 oxycodone 5-mg equivalents, respectively. Drug abuse, psychoses, and preoperative opioid filling were significant mental health-related drivers of increased postoperative opioid demand. DISCUSSION: This study reports the rate and volume of opioid prescription filling in patients undergoing upper extremity fracture surgery. Mental health and substance use disorders were significant drivers of perioperative opioid demand. These study findings can guide surgeons to anticipate expected perioperative opioid demand and identify patients who may benefit from collaboration with pain management specialists during the perioperative period.

Are Patients Taking Benzodiazepines at Increased Risk for Complications Following Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty?

BACKGROUND: Benzodiazepines are commonly taken by patients who are undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA), but there is a paucity of studies evaluating any associations. Therefore, we hoped to study if patients taking preoperative benzodiazepines would have increased complications following TKA. METHODS: Using a nationwide database, from 2010 to 2019, we evaluated patients undergoing primary TKA who either did or did not have a preoperative record of benzodiazepine prescription. We performed a multivariable logistic regression analysis, adjusting for multiple variables (age, gender, obesity, and Charlson comorbidity index), to determine the association of preoperative benzodiazepine use and adverse events in a matched cohort. Furthermore, we stratified patients by one vs multiple preoperative benzodiazepine prescription(s). We evaluated 90-day and 2-year rates of revision, resection, femur fracture fixation, manipulation under anesthesia (MUA), and delirium. RESULTS: Patients filling more than one preoperative benzodiazepine prescription had increased adjusted odds of 90-day (odds ratio [OR] = 1.198, confidence interval [CI] = 1.086-1.320) and 2-year (OR = 1.188, CI = 1.125-1.254) revision; 90-day resection (OR = 1.430, CI = 1.125-1.817); 90-day (OR = 1.639, CI = 1.255-2.141) and 2-year (OR = 1.646, CI = 1.412-1.919) femur fracture fixation; and 2-year delirium (OR = 2.288, CI = 1.564-3.382). Preoperative benzodiazepine users had decreased adjusted odds of 90-day (OR = 0.670, CI = 0.639-0.702) and 2-year (OR = 0.702, CI = 0.671-0.734) MUA. CONCLUSION: After controlling for multiple variables, benzodiazepine use was associated with increased rates of revision, resection, femur fracture fixation, and delirium. Furthermore, benzodiazepine use was also associated with a decreased rate of MUA. Orthopaedic professionals can counsel patients taking this group of medications about the associated adverse events. Future studies should assess the use of other muscle relaxants in the prevention of knee stiffness and MUA.

Legislation Only Limiting Opioid Prescription Length Has Minimal Impact on Prescribing in Orthopaedic Trauma.

This study evaluates the efficacy of North Carolina's Strengthen Opioid Misuse Prevention (STOP) Act in reducing the volume and rate of 90-day perioperative opioid prescribing to patients ages 18 and older after orthopaedic trauma surgery. Patients undergoing fracture surgery from January 2017 to June 2017 (pre-STOP) were compared with patients undergoing fracture surgery from January 2018 to June 2018 (post-STOP). Adjusted analyses demonstrated that patients undergoing surgery after the STOP Act (n = 730) were prescribed significantly lower volume of opioids in the discharge to 2-week time frame and at the first postoperative prescription (7.3 and 5.8 fewer oxycodone, respectively). Otherwise, there were no significant differences between the two cohorts in adjusted volume or rates of 90-day opioid prescribing. The STOP act has had only a minor impact on early post-discharge opioid prescribing in patients undergoing fracture surgery. These findings question the efficacy of this type of legislation in combating opioid overprescribing in orthopaedic trauma. (Journal of Surgical Orthopaedic Advances 30(2):101-107, 2021).

Total Hip Arthroplasty in Patients With Dementia.

BACKGROUND: There are few studies evaluating total hip arthroplasty (THA) in patients with dementia. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the rate of revision, complication, emergency department (ED) visitation, and discharge disposition in patients with dementia undergoing THA. METHODS: In this retrospective study, we evaluated patients from 2007 to 2017 using a national database. We evaluated complications in patients with a diagnosis of dementia undergoing primary THA for osteoarthritis. RESULTS: In patients with dementia undergoing THA, the 90-day complications were increased risk of revision, delirium, ED visitation, and skilled nursing facility disposition (P < .05). In patients with dementia undergoing THA, the 2-year complications were increased risk of delirium, ED visitation, and skilled nursing facility disposition (P < .05). CONCLUSION: Patients with dementia undergoing THA are at an increased risk of complications and 90-day resource utilization.

Comparison of 3D Printed Spherical Implants versus Femoral Head Allografts for Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis.

Successful tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) arthrodesis can be difficult to achieve in patients with bulk bone defects even with the use of femoral head allograft. Retrograde intramedullary nail placement through custom 3-dimensional (3D) spherical implants is an innovative option for these patients. The purpose of this study was to compare fusion rates, graft resorption, and complication rates between patients undergoing TTC fusion with 3D sphere implants versus femoral head allografts. Patients who underwent TTC arthrodesis with an intramedullary nail along with a 3D spherical implant (n = 8) or femoral head allograft (n = 7) were included in this study. The rate of successful fusion of the tibia, calcaneus, and talar neck to the 3D sphere or femoral head allograft was compared between the groups. The rate of total fused articulations was significantly higher in the 3D sphere group (92%) than the femoral head allograft group (62%; p = .018). The number of patients achieving successful fusion of all 3 articulations was higher in the 3D sphere group (75%) than the femoral head allograft group (42.9%, p = .22). The rate of graft resorption was significantly higher in the femoral head allograft group (57.1%) than the 3D sphere group (0%, p = .016). There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of complications. These data demonstrate that the use of a custom 3D printed sphere implant is safe in patients with severe bone loss undergoing TTC arthrodesis with a retrograde intramedullary nail and may result in improved rates of successful arthrodesis.

Polymicrobial Infections in Hip Arthroplasty: Lower Treatment Success Rate, Increased Surgery, and Longer Hospitalization.

BACKGROUND: Polymicrobial hip arthroplasty infections are a subset of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) with distinct challenges representing 10%-47% of PJI. METHODS: Records were reviewed from all PJIs involving partial or total hip arthroplasty with positive hip cultures between 2005 and 2015 in order to determine baseline characteristics and outcomes including treatment success, surgeries for infection, and days in hospital for infection. Analysis was restricted to patients who had at least 2 years of follow-up after their final surgery or hospitalization for infection. Factors with P-value less than .05 in univariate outcomes analysis were included in multivariable models. RESULTS: After multivariable analysis, 28 of 95 hip arthroplasty PJIs which were polymicrobial were associated with significantly lower treatment success, more surgery, and longer hospitalizations compared to PJIs which were not polymicrobial. Patients diagnosed with polymicrobial infection later in treatment (4 of 28) had the lowest treatment success rate, underwent the most surgery, and spent the longest time in hospital. CONCLUSION: Polymicrobial periprosthetic hip infection is a particularly devastating complication of hip arthroplasty associated with decreased likelihood of treatment success, increased surgery for infection, and greater time in hospital. Patients with late polymicrobial infection had the worst outcomes. This investigation further characterizes the natural history of periprosthetic hip infections with more than one infectious organism. Patients who present with a subsequent polymicrobial infection should be educated that they have a particularly difficult treatment course and treatment success may not be possible.

Clinical Impact of Routine Complete Blood Counts Following Total Knee Arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: Routine laboratory studies are generally obtained following total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and often continued daily until discharge. This study aims to investigate the utility and cost-effectiveness of complete blood count (CBC) tests following TKA. METHODS: Retrospective review identified 484 patients who underwent primary TKA under a tourniquet at a single institution. Preoperative and postoperative CBC values were collected along with demographic data, use of tranexamic acid (TXA), and transfusion rates. Logistic regression models were calculated for all variables. RESULTS: Twenty-five patients required transfusion following TKA (5.2%). Patients requiring transfusion had significantly lower preoperative hemoglobin compared to patients who did not require transfusion (11.47 vs 13.58 g/dL, P = .005). Risk of transfusion was 5.2 times higher in patients with preoperative anemia (95% confidence interval 2.90-9.35, P < .001). Without TXA, patients were 2.75 times more likely to receive transfusion (95% confidence interval 1.43-5.30, P < .001). An average of 2.9 CBC tests were collected per patient who did not receive medical intervention, costing a total of $144,773.80 in associated hospital charges ($316.10 per patient). CONCLUSION: Ensuring quality, cost-effective patient care following total joint arthroplasty is essential in the era of bundled payments. Routine postoperative CBCs do not add value for patients with normal preoperative hemoglobin who receive TXA during TKA performed under tourniquet. Patients who are anemic preoperatively or do not receive TXA should obtain a postoperative CBC test. Daily CBCs are unnecessary if the first postoperative CBC does not prompt intervention.

Inpatient Consults and Complications During Primary Total Joint Arthroplasty in a Bundled Care Model.

BACKGROUND: The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) are implementing changes in hospital reimbursement models for total joint arthroplasty (TJA), moving to value-based bundled payments from the fee-for-service model. The purpose of this study is to identify consults and complications during the perioperative period that increase financial burden. METHODS: We combined CMS payment data for inpatient, professional, and postoperative with retrospective review of patients undergoing primary TJA and developed profiles of patients included in the Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement bundle undergoing TJA. Statistical comparison of episode inpatient events and payments was conducted. Multiple regression analysis was adjusted for length of stay, disposition, and Charlson-Deyo comorbidity profile. RESULTS: Median total payment was $21,577.36, which exceeded the median bundle target payment of $20,625.00. Adjusted analyses showed that psychiatry consults (increase of $73,123.32; P < .001), internal medicine consults ($5789.38; P ≤ .001), pulmonary embolism ($35,273.68; P < .001), intensive care unit admission ($14,078.37; P < .001), and deep vein thrombosis ($9471.26; P = .019) resulted in increased payments using multivariate analysis adjusted for length of stay, Charlson-Deyo comorbidities, and discharge disposition. CONCLUSION: Patients with inpatient complications such as pulmonary embolism and/or deep vein thrombosis, intensive care unit admission, and medical/psychiatric consultation exceeded the CMS target. Although study results showed typical complication rates, acute inpatient consultation significantly increased utilization beyond the CMS target even when adjusted for length of stay, patient comorbidities, and discharge. Needed medical care should continue to be a priority for inpatients, and allowance for individual outliers should be considered in policy discussions.

When Should Complete Blood Count Tests Be Performed in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty Patients?

BACKGROUND: Routine laboratory studies are often obtained following total hip arthroplasty (THA). Moreover, laboratory studies are often continued daily until the patient is discharged regardless of medical management. The purpose of this study was to investigate the use of routine complete blood count (CBC) tests following THA. Secondarily, the purpose was to identify patient factors associated with abnormal postoperative lab values. METHODS: This retrospective review identified 352 patients who underwent primary THA at a single institution from 2012 to 2014. Preoperative and postoperative CBC values were collected along with demographic data, use of tranexamic acid (TXA), and transfusion rates. Logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with an abnormal postoperative lab and risk of transfusion. RESULTS: Of the 352 patients, 54 patients were transfused (15.3%). Patients who underwent transfusion had a significantly lower preoperative hemoglobin (Hb; 12.0 g/dL) compared to patients who did not undergo transfusion (13.5 g/dL; P < .001). Patients who did not receive TXA were 3.7 times more likely to receive a transfusion. No patients received medical intervention based on the outcome of postoperative platelet or white blood counts. A Hb value below 11.94 g/dL for patients who are anemic preoperative or did not receive TXA predicted transfusion after postoperative day 1. CONCLUSION: Under value-based care models, cost containment while maintaining high-quality patient care is critical. Routine postoperative CBC tests in patients with a normal preoperative Hb who receive TXA do not contribute to actionable information. Patients who are anemic before THA or do not receive TXA should at minimum obtain a CBC on postoperative day 1.

Specific Infectious Organisms Associated With Poor Outcomes in Treatment for Hip Periprosthetic Infection.

BACKGROUND: Periprosthetic hip infection treatment remains a significant challenge for orthopedics. Some studies have suggested that methicillin resistance and gram-negative organism type are associated with increased treatment failure. The aim of this research is to determine if specific organisms were associated with poor outcomes in treatment for hip periprosthetic infection. METHODS: Records were reviewed of all patients between 2005 and 2015 who underwent treatment for infected partial or total hip arthroplasty. Characteristics of each patient's treatment course were determined including baseline characteristics, infecting organism(s), infection status at final follow-up, surgeries for infection, and time in hospital. Baseline characteristics and organisms that were associated with clinical outcomes in univariate analysis were incorporated into multivariable outcomes models. RESULTS: When compared with patients infected with other organism(s), patients infected with the following organisms had significantly decreased infection-free rates: Pseudomonas, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and Proteus. Infection with certain organisms was associated with 1.13-2.58 additional surgeries: methicillin-sensitive S aureus, coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, MRSA, Pseudomonas, Peptostreptococcus, Klebsiella, Candida, diphtheroids, Propionibacterium acnes, and Proteus species. Specific organisms were associated with 8.56-24.54 additional days in hospital for infection: methicillin-sensitive S aureus, coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, Proteus, MRSA, Enterococcus, Pseudomonas, Klebsiella, beta-hemolytic Streptococcus, and diphtheroids. Higher comorbidity score was also associated with greater length of hospitalization. CONCLUSION: MRSA, Pseudomonas, and Proteus were associated with all 3 outcomes of lower infection-free rate, more surgery, and more time in hospital in treatment for hip periprosthetic infection. Organism-specific outcome information may help individualize patient-physician discussions about the expected course of treatment for hip periprosthetic infection.