Academic Productivity at Orthopedic Spine Surgery Fellowships is Positively Correlated With Nonresearch Lifetime Industry Earnings: A Retrospective Study.

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective Analysis. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to assess the impact of academic productivity at both individual and program levels on lifetime industry earnings within US orthopedic spine fellowships. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Physician-industry transparency was codified by the Physician Payments Sunshine Act (PSSA) in 2010. No study has explored the relationship between academic productivity and industry earnings at the fellowship level. METHODS: Inclusion criteria encompassed physicians with complete academic and industry data from orthopedic spine fellowship programs listed on the North American Spine Society (NASS) 2022-2023 fellowship directory. Academic productivity was defined via H-index on the Scopus website, and industry productivity by total lifetime earnings on the Open Payments Database (OPD). RESULTS: This analysis included 75 orthopedic spine fellowship programs with 320 individual physicians. Median individual physician lifetime earnings were $86,852.71 (mean: $666,580.23 ± $1,887,734.64; minimum-maximum: $10.86-$27,164,431.49) and the median individual physician (n=320 physicians) H-index was 17.0 (mean: 21.82 ± 19.28; minimum-maximum: 0-109). Median combined physician H-index per fellowship (n=75 fellowships) was 65.0 (mean: 93.08 ± 85.67; minimum-maximum: 3-434) and median combined physician lifetime earnings was $927,771.60 (mean: $2,844,075.64 ± $4,942,089.56; minimum-maximum: $1,112.32-$29,983,900.69). A positive correlation was observed between academic productivity and industry productivity at an individual level (P<0.001; Spearman's rho = 0.467). This correlation was stronger at the fellowship level (P<0.001; Spearman's rho = 0.734). There was no significant difference in total lifetime earnings (P=0.369) or H-index per fellowship (P=0.232) when stratified by region of the fellowship program in the United States. CONCLUSION: Orthopedic spine surgery fellowship programs in the United States exhibit a positive correlation between academic productivity and nonresearch industry lifetime earnings at both individual and program levels. This correlation is stronger at the program level, and regional differences among fellowship programs do not significantly impact academic or industry productivity.

Assessing extremely negative online patient reviews and complaints of musculoskeletal oncology surgeons in the United States: a retrospective analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Physician-review websites (PRWs) are commonly used by patients while searching for a surgeon. There is no current literature investigating the factors that contribute to online one-star reviews of musculoskeletal oncology surgeons. This retrospective study aims to identify these factors to determine areas of care affecting patient's subjective reviews. METHODS: Patient ratings and comments regarding musculoskeletal oncology surgeons from the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) were collected from Vitals.com. One-star reviews with comments were then classified as either operative or nonoperative. These complaints were then further classified based on content including wait time, uncontrolled pain, time spent with the physician, surgical outcomes, medical staff/institutional complaints, and bedside manner. RESULTS: A total of 169 reviews (375 complaints) from 181 physicians were included. Of these complaints, 198 were from patients in the operative category while 177 were from patients in the nonoperative category. Bedside manner was the most common complaint. Operative patients reported higher instances of uncontrolled pain in their reviews, whereas nonoperative patients more frequently cited wait time. No significant difference in the complaints that mentioned the amount of time spent with the physician, bedside manner, a disagreement with the plan, or the medical staff or institution was found. CONCLUSION: Online one-star reviews of musculoskeletal oncology surgeons on Vitals.com referenced both surgical and non-surgical aspects of patient encounters, with bedside manner being the most popular complaint overall. Surgical patients were more likely to complain of uncontrolled pain whereas non-operative patients were more likely to complain of wait time. TYPE OF STUDY: Outcomes 2c.

Skin color reporting in basal cell carcinoma-related randomized controlled trials in top dermatology journals: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the rate skin color is reported in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving basal cell carcinoma (BCC) identification and treatment in the top ten dermatology journals. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted of RCTs involving BCC among the top ten dermatology journals, determined by impact factor, from inception to July 11th, 2023. Studies were included if they reviewed the prevention, detection, and treatment of BCC, directly involved patients, and were classified as RCTs. Studies were classified as positive for reporting skin of color (SOC) if the demographic data in the methods or results included any of the following terms: Fitzpatrick scale, race, ethnicity, skin of color, or sunburn tendency. RESULTS: Of the 51 studies identified, only 23 articles reported data pertaining to skin color within the results section (45.1%); whereas 28 articles mentioned skin color somewhere within the text (54.9%). Subgroup analysis was performed, and no statistical significance was found for study location or year of publication. CONCLUSION: Dark skin color can make it more difficult to diagnose skin tumors and it is unknown if race affects response to treatment. Less than 50% of RCTs related to basal cell carcinoma in top international dermatology journals included skin color within the demographic portion of their results section pertaining to study participants. Subgroup analysis demonstrated that studies performed within the United States reported skin color less than half the time (40%). Additionally, there has been no statistically significant difference in reporting over the past 4 decades. Further research is necessary to determine whether low reporting rates of race/skin color in BCC-related RCTS could impact diagnostic or treatment recommendations for patient care in this group.

The Association of Preoperative Bone Mineral Density and Outcomes after Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion: A Systematic Review.

STUDY DESIGN: This is a systematic review. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) outcomes and complications as a function of preoperative bone mineral density (BMD). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Preoperative BMD optimization is commonly initiated before lumbar spinal fusion, but the effects of BMD on ACDF are less known. Consequently, it remains unclear whether preoperative BMD optimization is recommended before ACDF. METHODS: This systematic review included relevant clinical articles using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and MEDLINE from database inception until October 1, 2023. Eligible studies included those evaluating low BMD and outcomes after ACDF. All articles were graded using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) scale and Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) assessment tools. RESULTS: The initial retrieval yielded 4271 articles for which 4 articles with 671 patients were included in the final analysis. The mean patient age was 56.4 ± 3.9 years, and 331 patients (49.3%) were female. A total of 265 (39.5%) patients had low BMD (T score<-1.0) before ACDF. Preoperative low BMD was associated with cage subsidence in single-level ACDF (odds ratio (OR) 2.57; P=0.063; 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.95-6.95), but this result did not reach statistical significance. Osteoporosis (T score<-2.5) was associated with the development of adjacent segment disease following ACDF (OR 4.41; P<0.01; 95% CI: 1.98-9.83). Low pre-operative BMD was associated with reoperation within 2 years (P<.05) and strongly associated with pseudarthrosis (OR: 11.01; P=0.002; 95% CI 2.4-49.9). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with low BMD who undergo ACDF have higher rates of subsidence, adjacent segment disease, and pseudarthrosis than those with normal BMD. Given the individual and system-wide burdens associated with these complications, some patients may benefit from preoperative BMD screening and optimization before undergoing ACDF.

Clinical Outcomes and Complication Rates for Noncontiguous Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion, Cervical Disc Arthroplasty, and Hybrid Cervical Surgery: A Systematic Review.

OBJECTIVE: This study examined clinical outcomes associated with 3 types of noncontiguous cervical surgeries - anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), cervical disc arthroplasty (CDA), and hybrid cervical surgery (HCS) - to improve surgeon decision-making. METHODS: A systematic review was performed using PubMed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, and Web of Science from database inception until June 6th, 2023. Inclusion criteria were studies that reported any type of clinical outcome, examined noncontiguous ACDF, noncontiguous CDA, and/or noncontiguous HCS. RESULTS: Ten articles out of 523 articles initially retrieved were included. Patients (n = 388) had a mean age of 52 ± 5.1 years and a mean follow-up time of 33 ± 6.0 months. Overall, 119 patients underwent noncontiguous HCS, 65 underwent noncontiguous CDA, and 204 underwent noncontiguous ACDF. There appears to be no clinically meaningful difference in Neck Disability Index score, Japanese Orthopedic Association score, and improvement in pain based on surgery type. There were a total of 83 complications (21% of cases) with noncontiguous ACDF having a higher absolute rate of dysphagia (20%) as compared to noncontiguous HCS (6.7%) or noncontiguous CDA (6.2%). Noncontiguous ACDF had a higher absolute rate of adjacent segment degeneration anterior cervical discectomy and fusion as a reported complication (6.4%) as compared to noncontiguous HCS (1.7%) and noncontiguous CDA (0.0%). CONCLUSIONS: There may be no clinically meaningful difference in many clinical outcomes for different noncontiguous surgical interventions for noncontiguous (cervical degenerative disc disease). However, complication rates, such as dysphagia and anterior cervical discectomy and fusion, appear higher for noncontiguous ACDF as compared to noncontiguous CDA or HCS.

Arthroscopic management of pediatric ankle fractures: a systematic review.

Background: Arthroscopic-assisted treatment of ankle fractures has proven useful in the adult population, but little evidence exists for the utilization of arthroscopic-assisted ankle fracture fixation in the pediatric population. The purpose of this systematic review is to examine the management of pediatric ankle fractures using arthroscopy. Methods: A systematic review was performed using PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, and MEDLINE from database inception to February 22nd, 2023. Inclusion criteria for this systematic review was pediatric population less than age 18, arthroscopic surgery management, and ankle fracture. Results: A total of 19 articles (n=30 patients) out of 176 articles met final inclusion criteria with all articles consisting of case reports or case series. The average patient age was 13.8±1.6 years. Sixteen of the patients (53%) had arthroscopic surgery along with an adjunct surgery as indicated, whereas 14 patients (47%) had arthroscopic surgery with or without percutaneous fixation. A high majority of patients demonstrated full range-of-motion and large improvements in function. Conclusions: Arthroscopy is used with percutaneous fixation or in adjunct to open approaches for pediatric ankle fracture management with good results. More research is needed to determine the utility of arthroscopy in the management of pediatric ankle fractures.

Examining the Evidence Regarding Smoking and Patient Outcomes for Isolated Meniscus Pathology: A Comprehensive Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Smoking is a well-known cause of impairment in wound healing and postoperative outcomes; however, its effects on treating meniscus issues remain unclear. This study assesses the relationship between smoking and meniscus treatment outcomes. PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and CINAHL were searched from inception to 24 December 2023. Inclusion criteria encompassed studies examining smoking's impact on patient outcomes regarding meniscus pathology. A secondary PubMed search targeted randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in the top ten orthopedic journals focusing on meniscus pathology and smoking as a demographic variable. Meta-analysis of six studies (n = 528) assessed meniscus failure rate based on smoking status. Eighteen observational studies (n = 8353 patients; 53.25% male; mean age: 51.35 ± 11.53 years; follow-up: 184.11 ± 117.34 months) were analyzed, covering meniscus repair, meniscectomy, allograft transplant, conservative care, and arthroscopy. Results showed four studies (36.36%) linked smoking with worse meniscus repair outcomes, while seven studies (63.64%) did not find significant associations. Meta-analysis from six studies showed no significant impact of smoking on repair failure (p = 0.118). Regarding meniscectomy, one study (33.33%) identified a significant association with smoking, but two did not. Only one (3.8%) of the RCTs in leading orthopedic journals included smoking as a factor. The evidence on smoking's effect on meniscus treatment is mixed, necessitating further investigation.

Skin color reporting in squamous cell carcinoma-related randomized controlled trials in top dermatology journals: a systematic review.

The objectives are to determine the frequency that skin color is reported in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) detection and treatment in leading dermatology journals. A systematic review of RCTs involving SCC was conducted among the top ten most impactful dermatology journals from inception to July 10th, 2023. Studies were included if they reviewed the treatment, prevention, or detection of SCC, involved patients directly and were classified as traditional RCTs. Studies were considered positive for reporting SOC if there was any demographic data in the methods or results of the following terms: Fitzpatrick scale, race, ethnicity, sunburn tendency, or skin of color. Of the 39 studies which were identified, 23 reported data related to skin color data (59.0%). White individuals were the most reported in these studies (56.5%). Subgroup analysis was conducted, and no statistical significance was found for study location, year of publication, or funding source. Skin color impacts skin cancer detection, predominant location of tumors, and recurrence. Less than 60% of high-quality RCTs related to SCC in top global dermatology journals included skin color among the demographic traits of study participants. Subgroup analysis demonstrated no improvement in reporting over the past 2 decades. Further research is needed to understand the reason for low skin color reporting rates among SCC-related RCTs and the impact this has on society.

Academic productivity correlates with industry earnings in foot and ankle fellowship programs in the United States: A retrospective analysis.

BACKGROUND: The study investigates the connection between academic productivity and industry earnings in foot and ankle orthopedic surgery fellowships. Utilizing metrics like the H-index and Open Payments Database (OPD) data, it addresses a gap in understanding the relationship between scholarly achievements and financial outcomes, providing a basis for further exploration in this specialized medical field. AIM: To elucidate the trends between academic productivity and industry earnings across foot and ankle orthopedic surgery fellowship programs in the United States. METHODS: This study is a retrospective analysis of the relationship between academic productivity and industry earnings of foot and ankle orthopedic surgery fellowships at an individual faculty and fellowship level. Academic productivity was defined via H-index and recorded from the Scopus website. Industry earnings were recorded from the OPD. RESULTS: Forty-eight foot and ankle orthopedic surgery fellowships (100% of fellowships) in the United States with a combined total of 165 physicians (95.9% of physicians) were included. Mean individual physician (n = 165) total life-time earnings reported on the OPD website was United States Dollar (USD) 451430.30 ± 1851084.89 (range: USD 25.16-21269249.85; median: USD 27839.80). Mean physician (n = 165) H-index as reported on Scopus is 14.24 ± 12.39 (range: 0-63; median: 11). There was a significant but weak correlation between individual physician H-index and individual physician total life-time earnings (P < 0.001; Spearman's rho = 0.334) and a significant and moderate positive correlation between combined fellowship H-index and total life-time earnings per fellowship (P = 0.004, Spearman's rho = 0.409). CONCLUSION: There is a significant and positive correlation between academic productivity and industry earnings at foot and ankle orthopedic surgery fellowships in the United States. This observation is true on an individual physician level as well as on a fellowship level.

Association between chiropractic spinal manipulation and cauda equina syndrome in adults with low back pain: Retrospective cohort study of US academic health centers.

BACKGROUND: Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is a lumbosacral surgical emergency that has been associated with chiropractic spinal manipulation (CSM) in case reports. However, identifying if there is a potential causal effect is complicated by the heightened incidence of CES among those with low back pain (LBP). The study hypothesis was that there would be no increase in the risk of CES in adults with LBP following CSM compared to a propensity-matched cohort following physical therapy (PT) evaluation without spinal manipulation over a three-month follow-up period. METHODS: A query of a United States network (TriNetX, Inc.) was conducted, searching health records of more than 107 million patients attending academic health centers, yielding data ranging from 20 years prior to the search date (July 30, 2023). Patients aged 18 or older with LBP were included, excluding those with pre-existing CES, incontinence, or serious pathology that may cause CES. Patients were divided into two cohorts: (1) LBP patients receiving CSM or (2) LBP patients receiving PT evaluation without spinal manipulation. Propensity score matching controlled for confounding variables associated with CES. RESULTS: 67,220 patients per cohort (mean age 51 years) remained after propensity matching. CES incidence was 0.07% (95% confidence intervals [CI]: 0.05-0.09%) in the CSM cohort compared to 0.11% (95% CI: 0.09-0.14%) in the PT evaluation cohort, yielding a risk ratio and 95% CI of 0.60 (0.42-0.86; p = .0052). Both cohorts showed a higher rate of CES during the first two weeks of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that CSM is not a risk factor for CES. Considering prior epidemiologic evidence, patients with LBP may have an elevated risk of CES independent of treatment. These findings warrant further corroboration. In the meantime, clinicians should be vigilant to identify LBP patients with CES and promptly refer them for surgical evaluation.

The Utilization of Preoperative Steroids Safely Decreases the Risk of Postoperative Delirium in Geriatric Patients After Hip Fracture Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

OBJECTIVES: Postoperative delirium is an acute neurocognitive complication that can have adverse effects on outcomes of geriatric patients after undergoing hip fracture surgery. The objective of this study was to examine the efficacy of preoperative steroids in preventing postoperative delirium after hip fracture surgery. DATA SOURCES: A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed using PubMed, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL, MEDLINE, and Web of Science from database inception until September 28, 2023. STUDY SELECTION: Inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials of patients who underwent surgical intervention for hip fracture, were examined for postoperative delirium, and used preoperative steroids. DATA EXTRACTION: Data included the risk of postoperative delirium, postoperative all-cause infection, and postoperative hyperglycemia. Articles were graded via the Cochrane Collaboration's tool. DATA SYNTHESIS: Statistical analysis included a random-effects binary model with relative risk, 95% confidence intervals along with a defined "number needed to treat" threshold (number needed to treat). RESULTS: Four randomized controlled trials were included from 128 articles initially retrieved. Patients (n = 416; average age: 82.2 ± 2.2 years) underwent surgical intervention for hip fracture after receiving either preoperative steroids (n = 209) or control interventions (n = 207). There was a statistically significant decrease in the incidence of postoperative delirium among patients who received preoperative steroids (12.9%; 27 cases) as compared with patients who received control interventions (26.7%; 55 cases) after hip fracture surgery ( P < 0.001; RR: 0.84). The absolute risk difference was 13.8%, and the number needed to treat was 7.2 patients. There was no statistically significant difference in the risk of postoperative all-cause infection among patients who received preoperative steroids as compared with patients who received normal saline as placebo after hip fracture surgery ( P = 0.850; RR: 0.96). CONCLUSIONS: The utilization of preoperative steroids seems to decrease the risk of postoperative delirium after hip fracture surgery in elderly adults. Furthermore, this decreased risk of postoperative delirium was not associated with a significant increase in postoperative infection, indicating possible safety of preoperative steroid administration. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

The Utilization of Minimally Invasive Surgery for Os Trigonum Syndrome: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: A symptomatic os trigonum is a common cause of posterior ankle pain that has been traditionally managed with open excision. Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has been proposed as an alternative to open excision for improved outcomes and decreased complication rates; however, no systematic review to date has examined the utilization of MIS for a symptomatic os trigonum. PURPOSE: To examine patient outcomes, return to sport, and complications associated with MIS for a symptomatic os trigonum. STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: A systematic review was performed on February 22, 2023, using the PubMed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, and Web of Science databases from database inception until February 22, 2023, on the topic of MIS for a symptomatic os trigonum. RESULTS: Of 885 articles retrieved from an initial search, 17 articles (N = 435 patients) met full inclusion criteria. The mean age of the cohort was 26.01 ± 4.68 years, with a mean follow-up time of 34.63 ± 18.20 months. For patients treated with MIS, the mean preoperative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score was 55.85 ± 12.75, the mean final postoperative AOFAS score was 94.88 ± 4.04, the mean preoperative visual analog scale pain score was 7.20 ± 0.43, and the mean final postoperative visual analog scale score was 0.71 ± 0.48. The mean time to return to sport for patients undergoing MIS was 7.76 ± 1.42 weeks. MIS had an overall complication rate of 5.0%, the majority of which consisted of transient neurapraxia of the sural or superficial peroneal nerve. CONCLUSION: Minimally invasive management of a symptomatic os trigonum appears to be a viable alternative to open surgery in terms of outcomes, return to sport, and complication rates. More high-quality evidence will be required to definitely recommend minimally invasive approaches as the standard of care over open surgery.

Efficacy of manual therapy for sacroiliac joint pain syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

INTRODUCTION: This study examined the efficacy of manual therapy for pain and disability measures in adults with sacroiliac joint pain syndrome (SIJPS). METHODS: We searched six databases, including gray literature, on 24 October 2023, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining sacroiliac joint (SIJ) manual therapy outcomes via pain or disability in adults with SIJPS. We evaluated quality via the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale and certainty via Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE). Standardized mean differences (SMDs) in post-treatment pain and disability scores were pooled using random-effects models in meta-regressions. RESULTS: We included 16 RCTs (421 adults; mean age = 37.7 years), with 11 RCTs being meta-analyzed. Compared to non-manual physiotherapy (i.e. exercise ± passive modalities; 10 RCTs) or sham (1 RCT) interventions, SIJ manual therapy did not significantly reduce pain (SMD: -0.88; 95%-CI: -1.84; 0.08, p = 0.0686) yet had a statistically significant moderate effect in reducing disability (SMD: -0.67; 95% CI: -1.32; -0.03, p = 0.0418). The superiority of individual manual therapies was unclear due to low sample size, wide confidence intervals for effect estimates, and inability to meta-analyze five RCTs with a unique head-to-head design. RCTs were of 'good' (56%) or 'fair' (44%) quality, and heterogeneity was high. Certainty was very low for pain and low for disability outcomes. CONCLUSION: SIJ manual therapy appears efficacious for improving disability in adults with SIJPS, while its efficacy for pain is uncertain. It is unclear which specific manual therapy techniques may be more efficacious. These findings should be interpreted cautiously until further high-quality RCTs are available examining manual therapy against control groups such as exercise. REGISTRATION: PROSPERO (CRD42023394326).

The Impact of Ketorolac Utilization on Outcomes for Lumbar Spine Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

OBJECTIVE: Ketorolac is one of the most potent nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs commonly used in spine surgery. The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of ketorolac utilization with or without other medications on a patient's postoperative course after lumbar surgery. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was performed using PubMed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, and Web of Science in July 2023. Inclusion criteria were RCTs that used ketorolac for lumbar surgery. RESULTS: Thirteen RCTs were included (N = 997; mean age, 54.6 ± 7.8 years; n = 535 in the ketorolac group) in this systematic review. There was no significant difference in the 24-hour and total postoperative morphine utilization (P = 0.185 and P = 0.109, respectively), 24-hour and final postoperative pain scores (0-10 scale) (P = 0.065 and P = 0.582, respectively), and length of stay at the hospital (P = 0.990) between patients in the ketorolac group and patients in the non-ketorolac group who underwent lumbar surgery. Overall, patients had similar rates of major complications (3.7% vs. 5.4%) and minor complications (42.1% vs. 51.7%) between groups after lumbar surgery. However, patients in the ketorolac group had a significantly lower rate of nausea and/or vomiting compared with the non-ketorolac group after lumbar surgery (21.6% vs. 37.1%, respectively; P = 0.018). CONCLUSIONS: There is no significant difference in 24-hour and total postoperative morphine utilization, pain scores, or length of stay, with similar complication rates after lumbar surgery between patients receiving ketorolac and patients not receiving ketorolac via meta-analysis of RCTs.

The impact of patient scoliosis-specific exercises for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials with subgroup analysis using observational studies.

PURPOSE: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a common pediatric spinal deformity frequently treated with patient scoliosis-specific exercises (PSSE). The purpose of this study is to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and sensitivity analysis of observational studies to determine the impact of PSSE on outcomes for AIS. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis on impact of PSSE for patients with AIS was performed. Databases used included PubMed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Cochrane, and ScienceDirect database inception to October 2022. Inclusion criteria included use of PSSE, patient population of AIS, and full text. RESULTS: A total of 26 articles out of 628 initial retrieved met final inclusion criteria (10 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), 16 observational studies). Total included patients (n = 2083) had a frequency weighted mean age of 13.2 ± 0.9 years and a frequency weighted mean follow-up of 14.5 ± 20.0 months. Based on only data from RCTs with direct comparison groups (n = 7 articles), there was a statistically significant but clinically insignificant improvement in Cobb angle of 2.5 degrees in the PSSE group (n = 152) as compared to the control group (n = 148; p = 0.017). There was no statistically significant improvement in Cobb angle when stratified by small curve (< 30 degrees) or large curve (> 30 degrees) with PSSE (p = 0.140 and p = 0.142, respectively). There was no statistically significant improvement in ATR (p = 0.326) or SRS-22 score (p = 0.370). CONCLUSION: PSSE may not provide any clinically significant improvements in Cobb angle, ATR, or SRS-22 scores in patients with AIS. PSSE did not significantly improve Cobb angle when stratified by curve size. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level I.

Factors Predisposing Patients to Nonhome Discharge After Surgery for Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy: A Retrospective Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to evaluate factors associated with discharge to subacute care after surgery for degenerative cervical myelopathy. DESIGN: This is a retrospective chart review of adults who underwent cervical spine surgery for degenerative cervical myelopathy between 2014 and 2020 ( N = 135). RESULTS: Patients discharged to a subacute setting were older (68.1 ± 8.6 vs. 64.1 yrs ± 8.8, P = 0.01), more likely to be unmarried (55.8% vs. 33.7% married, P = 0.01), and more likely to have Medicare or Medicaid (83.7% vs. 65.9% private insurance, P = 0.03) than patients discharged home. A posterior surgical approach was associated with discharge to a subacute setting (62.8% vs. 43.5% anterior approach, P = 0.04). A total of 87.8% of patients discharged to a subacute setting required moderate or maximum assistance for bed mobility versus 26.6% of patients discharged home ( P < 0.0001). Compared with patients discharged home, patients discharged to a subacute setting ambulated a shorter distance in their first physical therapy evaluation after surgery (8.9 ± 35.8 vs. 53.7 ± 61.78 m in the home discharge group, P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Analysis of these factors may guide discussions about patient expectations for postoperative discharge placement.

Weightbearing Imaging Assessment of Midfoot Instability in Patients with Confirmed Hallux Valgus Deformity: A Systematic Review of the Literature.

Hallux valgus deformity (HVD) involves subluxation of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. While HVD is primarily considered a forefoot condition, midfoot instability may play a significant role in its development and severity. However, very few studies have placed a heavy emphasis on studying this phenomenon. Therefore, this review had a particular focus on understanding midfoot instability based on weightbearing imaging assessments of the TMT joint. This review followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and searched five databases for studies on midfoot instability in HVD patients. The severity of HVD was defined by hallux valgus angle (HVA) and distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA). Data was extracted, and articles were graded using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS). Of 547 initially retrieved articles, 23 met the inclusion criteria. Patients with HVD showed higher HVA and DMAA on weightbearing radiographs (WBRG) and weightbearing computed tomography (WBCT) compared to healthy individuals. Midfoot instability was assessed through intermetatarsal angle (IMA) and tarsometatarsal angle (TMT angle). Patients with HVD exhibited greater IMA and TMT angles on both WBRG and WBCT. This review highlights the importance of weightbearing imaging assessments for midfoot instability in HVD. IMA and TMT angles can differentiate between healthy individuals and HVD patients, emphasizing the significance of midfoot assessment in understanding HVD pathology. These findings validate the limited evidence thus far in the literature pertaining to consistent midfoot instability in HVD patients and are able to provide ample reasoning for physicians to place a larger emphasis on midfoot imaging when assessing HVD in its entirety.

An examination of negative one-star patient reviews for foot and ankle orthopedic surgery: A retrospective analysis.

BACKGROUND: Despite the questionable validity of online-based physician review websites (PRWs), negative reviews can adversely affect a provider's practice. Several investigations have explored the effect of extremely negative "one-star" reviews across subspecialties such as adult reconstruction, sports medicine, and orthopaedic traumatology; however, to date, no study has explored one-star reviews in foot and ankle surgery. The goal of this study was to characterize factors that contribute to extremely negative, one-star reviews for foot and ankle surgeons on Vitals.com. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of negative one-star reviews with corresponding patient complaints for foot and ankle surgeons (both orthopaedic surgeons as well as podiatrists) in the United States. Physicians included were selected within a 10-mile radius of the top ten largest cities in the United States. Data was stratified by patient type (e.g., those receiving surgery and those not undergoing surgical intervention) and binned according to type of patient complaint, as previously described. RESULTS: Of the 2645 foot and ankle surgeons identified in our initial query, 13.8% of surgeons contained one-star reviews eligible for analysis. Patient complaints related to bedside manner and patient experience are the causative factors accounting for 41.5% of the one-star reviews of foot and ankle surgeons for nonsurgical-related complaints. Surgical complications and other outcomes-related factors comprised roughly 50% of the complaints related to surgical patients. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, complaints related to bedside manner and patient experience are the causative factors accounting for 41.5% of the one-star reviews of foot and ankle surgeons for nonsurgical-related complaints. Surgical complications and other outcomes-related factors comprised roughly half of the complaints related to surgery. This data serves to inform practicing foot and ankle surgeons as to the influences behind patients leaving extremely negative reviews on PRWs. LEVEL OF CLINICAL EVIDENCE: IV.

Long-term survivability of surgical and nonsurgical management of spinal epidural abscess.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Spinal epidural abscess (SEA) is a rare and life-threatening infection within the epidural space with significant functional impairment and morbidity. Active debate remains over whether to operate for SEAs, with limited existing data comparing the long-term survivability after surgical versus nonsurgical management. PURPOSE: This study aims to determine the long-term survival of patients who underwent surgical and nonsurgical management for SEA. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. PATIENT SAMPLE: A total of 250 consecutive SEA patients. OUTCOME MEASURES: Survival and mortality rates, complications. METHODS: All patients treated at a tertiary medical center for a primary SEA from January 2000 to June 2020 are identified. Data collection is by retrospective chart review. Cox proportional hazards regression models are used for all survival analyses while controlling for potential confounding variables and with multiple testing corrections. RESULTS: A total of 35 out of 250 patients died with an overall all-cause mortality of 14%. More than half of all deaths occurred within 90 days after treatment. The 90-day, 3-year, and 5-year survival rates are 92.8%, 89.2%, and 86.4%, respectively. Among surgery patients, the all-cause mortality was 13.07%, compared to 16.22% for medically-managed patients. Surgical treatment (decompression, fusion, debridement) significantly reduced the risk of death by 62.4% compared to medical therapy (p=.03), but surgery patients experienced a significantly longer mean length of stay (p=.01). Risk factors of short-term mortality included hypoalbuminemia (<3.5 g/dL), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) 4+, and cardiac arrest. Risk factors of long-term mortality were immunocompromised state, elevated WBC count >12,000, sepsis, septic shock, ASA 4+, and cardiac arrest (p<.05). In terms of complications, surgically-managed patients experienced a higher proportion of deep vein thrombosis (p<.05). CONCLUSIONS: The overall long-term survivability of SEA treatment is relatively high at (86% at 5-year) in this study. The following SEA mortality risk factors were identified: hypoalbuminemia (short-term), immunocompromised state (long-term), leukocytosis (long-term), sepsis and septic shock (long-term), ASA 4+ and cardiac arrest (overall). For primary SEA patients, surgical management may reduce mortality risk compared to nonsurgical management.

Socioeconomic Status and Race Are Rarely Reported in Randomized Controlled Trials for Achilles Tendon Pathology in the Top 10 Orthopaedic Journals: A Systematic Review.

Background: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are crucial in comparative research, and a careful approach to randomization methodology helps minimize bias. However, confounding variables like socioeconomic status (SES) and race are often underreported in orthopaedic RCTs, potentially affecting the generalizability of results. This study aimed to analyze the reporting trends of SES and race in RCTs pertaining to Achilles tendon pathology, considering 4 decades of data from top-tier orthopaedic journals. Methods: This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and used PubMed to search 10 high-impact factor orthopaedic journals for RCTs related to the management of Achilles tendon pathology. The search encompassed all articles from the inception of each journal until July 11, 2023. Data extraction included year of publication, study type, reporting of SES and race, primary study location, and intervention details. Results: Of the 88 RCTs identified, 68 met the inclusion criteria. Based on decade of publication, 6 articles (8.8%) reported on SES, whereas only 2 articles (2.9%) reported on race. No RCTs reported SES in the pre-1999 period, but the frequency of reporting increased in subsequent decades. Meanwhile, all RCTs reporting race were published in the current decade (2020-2030), with a frequency of 20%. When considering the study location, RCTs conducted outside the United States were more likely to report SES compared with those within the USA. Conclusion: This review revealed a concerning underreporting of SES and race in Achilles tendon pathology RCTs. The reporting percentage remains low for both SES and race, indicating a need for comprehensive reporting practices in orthopaedic research. Understanding the impact of SES and race on treatment outcomes is critical for informed clinical decision making and ensuring equitable patient care. Future studies should prioritize the inclusion of these variables to enhance the generalizability and validity of RCT results.