Piroxicam and naproxen in patients with osteoarthritis of the hip waiting for total hip replacement.

Two-hundred and fifty-two patients waiting for a total hip replacement for degenerative hip disease were randomized to two groups of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication using piroxicam, 20 mg per day, and naproxen, 750 mg per day, after exclusion for severe dyspepsia or peptic ulcer, asthma, idiosyncracy, dissent, age below 50 years, Harris hip score above 50, or significant contralateral disease. A significant improvement in the pain and daily activity parameters was obtained in both groups. The effect was better in the piroxicam group one month after the commencement of the treatment, and equal in the groups later during the observation period of 2-5 months. We conclude that continuous medication is beneficial in patients with severe osteoarthritis scheduled for operation. However, the side effects of the medication have to be carefully considered and followed up.

Epidemiology of hip fractures in Norway.

During the 2-year period 1978-1979, a total of 2109 hip fractures (of the proximal end of the femur) occurred in Oslo. The age- and sex-specific annual incidence was the highest ever reported. A previous hip fracture had occurred in 13 per cent of the women and 6.8 per cent of the men. In 1979, a total of 5920 hip fractures was reported in Norway. Compared with Oslo, all other counties had a lower incidence. The number of fractures in Oslo was five times greater in 1982 compared with 1950. This increase cannot be explained only by the increasing number of elderly persons.

Pre- and postischemic transcutaneous oxygen tension measurements and the determination of amputation level in ischemic limbs.

The value of transcutaneous pO2 (TCpO2) measurements in determining amputation levels was studied in patients with atherosclerotic lower limb ischemia. A postischemic TCpO2 response did not predict healing of the amputation stump better than measurements at rest. No minimal resting or postischemic TCpO2 was found below which healing could not occur. However high TCpO2 values probably are indicative of a good healing potential. In patients with poor skin viability, assessed clinically, the method may be of value; in some cases TCpO2 values compatible with healing may be found. Attention should be paid to the TCpO2 sensor as its characteristics may influence the measurements in patients with critical ischemia causing underestimation of tissue pO2.