Exploring Quality of Life and Mortality in Pertrochanteric Fragility Hip Fractures in Northern Greece: A Single Tertiary Center Study.

Background: Fragility-related pertrochanteric fractures have become a significant public health concern, with a rising incidence attributed to the expanding elderly demographic. Assessing patient-reported health-related quality of life (HRQoL), mortality, and factors correlated with them serves as a crucial metric in evaluating the effectiveness of hip fracture surgery. Methods: In a single-center retrospective study, 259 patients underwent surgical treatment with a cephalomedullary nail, with a mean follow-up of 21.7 months. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) was assessed using SF-12 (12-item Short Form) and EQ-5D (EuroQoL-5 Dimensions) questionnaires. Mobility status was measured by the Crude Mobility Index (CMI). Surveys were administered during hospitalization and six months postoperatively. Statistical analysis involved descriptive statistics, non-parametric controls (Kendall, Mann-Whitney, and Wilcoxon), and Spearman correlation and logistic regression analysis, which were conducted using IBM SPSS version 28. Results: A statistically significant decrease was observed in the mean EQ-5D and SF-12 scores at 6 months post-op compared to the pre-fracture status. The ASA (American Society of Anaesthesiologists) score showed a significant correlation with the decrease in HRQoL measured by the SF-12 questionnaire. The 30-day post-operative mortality rate was 9.3%, increasing to 32.4% at 1 year. Notably, the 30-day mortality significantly rose during the pandemic era (5.0% vs. 12.0%; p = 0.003). Conclusions: Pertrochanteric hip fractures cause a lasting decline in quality of life. Annual mortality is high, and further investigations are needed to formulate policies that prevent hip fractures and reduce mortality rates.

Intrasynovial autograft for reconstruction of chronic large rotator cuff tears in a rabbit model: biomechanical, computed tomography, and histological results.

BACKGROUND: Rotator cuff (RC) tears are a common cause of shoulder dysfunction and pain, posing significant challenges for orthopedic surgeons. Grafts have been proposed as a solution to augment or bridge torn tendons, but optimal clinical outcomes are not always achieved due to poor graft integration, suboptimal mechanical properties, and immunological reactions. The aim of this study was to investigate the biomechanical, CT and histological results of RC reconstruction using an intrasynovial tendon autograft, in a chronic large tear subscapularis rabbit model. METHODS: Twenty-six adult male Zealand white rabbits were used in this study. Large defects in the subscapularis tendons were produced bilaterally in 20 rabbits. After 6 weeks, secondary procedures were performed to the right shoulder of the rabbits, which were reconstructed with an intrasynovial interposition autograft (graft group). The left shoulder did not undergo any further treatment (defect group). The specimens were randomly divided into two equal time groups and underwent biomechanical testing, CT analysis, and histological evaluation at 6, and 12 weeks after reconstruction. In addition, 6 rabbits that were not operated, were used as a control group. RESULTS: At 12 weeks post-repair, the graft group exhibited a significant increase in ultimate failure load compared to the defect group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the 12-week graft group demonstrated comparable stiffness to that of the control group. CT analysis indicated no significant progression of intramuscular fat accumulation in both graft groups, in contrast to the 12-week defect group when compared to the control group. Finally, histological evaluation revealed a gradual integration of the graft with the host tissue at 12 weeks. CONCLUSION: Our study suggests that intrasynovial flexor tendon autografts hold promise as an effective interposition graft for the reconstruction of chronic large RC tears, as they improve the biomechanical and biological properties of the repaired tendon. Nonetheless, further investigations in preclinical large animal models are warranted to validate and extrapolate these findings to human studies.

Repair of chronic and large rotator cuff tears using extra-synovial autografts: An experimental study in rabbits.

Purpose: To investigate whether and how extra-synovial autografts can enhance the reconstruction of chronic and large rotator cuff tears in a rabbit subscapularis model. Methods: Twenty rabbits were used to create a large subscapularis tear bilaterally. Six weeks later, the right shoulder of each rabbit was operated to repair the tear with an extra-synovial autograft, whereas the left shoulder did not undergo any surgery. At 6 and 12 weeks after the second procedure, the specimens underwent biomechanical and histological evaluation. Six more rabbits were used only as a normal reference. Results: Biomechanical evaluation demonstrated that the ultimate load to failure of the Graft group (184.1 ± 35.7 N) was significantly higher (p = 0.04) than that of the Defect group (144.5 ± 32.2 N) at 12 weeks after repair, rising to 76% of the normal subscapularis tendon tensile strength. Histological analysis revealed an enhanced healing environment with neoangiogenesis and decreased inflammatory response at the repair site. Moreover, the tendon maturing score of the Graft group increased substantially from 6 (15.8 ± 0.9) to 12 (23.1 ± 0.6) weeks after repair (p = 0.01). Conclusion: In vivo data support the efficacy of extra-synovial autograft interposition in repairing chronic and large rotator cuff tears in a rabbit subscapularis model. The autografts were capable of enhancing the biomechanical properties of the repaired tendons, as evidenced by increased tensile strength, and forming new connective tissue simulating a fibrocartilage zone, as revealed by histological evaluation. Level of Evidence: N/A.

Ten Flaws of Systematic Mechanical Alignment Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Mechanical alignment (MA) and its tenets have been considered essential for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) success since they were introduced in 1973. However, over time, there have been colossal advances in our knowledge and understanding of the anatomy and kinematics of the knee, as well as in surgical precision and implants. However, the MA systematic principles of prosthetic arthroplasty and implant position related to the lower-extremity mechanical axis, have only recently been called into question. The high rates of dissatisfaction and residual pain reported after MA TKA prompted this questioning, and that leaves plenty of room for improvement. Despite the general consensus that there is great variability between patients' anatomy, it is still the norm to carry out a systematic operation that does not consider individual variations. Evolving to a more personalized arthroplasty surgery was proposed as a rational and reasonable option to improve patient outcomes. Transitioning to a personalized TKA approach requires questioning and even disregarding certain MA TKA principles. Based on current knowledge, we can state that certain principles are erroneous or unfounded. The aim of this narrative review was to discuss and challenge 10 previously accepted, yet we believe, flawed, principles of MA, and to present an alternative concept, which is rooted in personalized TKA techniques.

The Influence of Smoking on Healing of Scaphoid Non-union after a Vascularized Pedicle Bone Flap Operation: A Review and Meta-analysis.

Background: The purpose of this study is to compare the vascularized bone flaps (VBF) that are used in operations for scaphoid non-union in smokers and non-smokers and to scrutinize if the better biological potential of the VBFs can counteract the negative influence of smoking on healing. Materials and Methods: Our study included articles published until 2016, with scaphoid non-union patients who were operated on with a VBF or a VBG. Results: Eighteen articles met eligibility criteria with 335 non-smokers and 136 smokers totally. Healing of the scaphoid non-union was significantly more probable in the non-smoking group (OR=5.54, p<0.001). Patients with avascular necrosis in the proximal pole of the scaphoid (AVNPP) and non-AVNPP showed that non-smoking favors a better healing rate in both of these subgroups (p<0.001 and p<0.001, respectively). Non-smokers have 11 times and the non-AVNPP patient's 7.7 times greater probability of healing of the non-union. Meta-analysis of the data for time for healing showed a longer time in the smokers' group by 2.46 weeks, though non-statistically significant. The analysis could not prove that smoking is a predisposing factor for the development of AVNPP (spearman=0.094, p<0.05). Despite that, preoperative smoking cessation proved to be an inadequate healing moderator (OR=3.5, p=0.268). Finally, VBFs showed a significantly better healing rate compared with nVBGs in smokers (p=0.001). Conclusions: A hand surgeon should always take into consideration that smoking negatively influences the healing potential of a scaphoid non-union despite the theoretically superior biological background that VBFs offer. In patients who refuse to quit smoking, a VBF may be considered a better choice than a conventional graft.

The Influence of Smoking on Healing of Scaphoid Non-union after a Vascularized Pedicle Bone Flap Operation: A Review and Meta-analysis.

Background: The purpose of this study is to compare the vascularized bone flaps (VBF) that are used in operations for scaphoid non-union in smokers and non-smokers and to scrutinize if the better biological potential of the VBFs can counteract the negative influence of smoking on healing. Materials and Methods: Our study included articles published until 2016, with scaphoid non-union patients who were operated on with a VBF or a VBG. Results: Eighteen articles met eligibility criteria with 335 non-smokers and 136 smokers totally. Healing of the scaphoid non-union was significantly more probable in the non-smoking group (OR=5.54, p<0.001). Patients with avascular necrosis in the proximal pole of the scaphoid (AVNPP) and non-AVNPP showed that non-smoking favors a better healing rate in both of these subgroups (p<0.001 and p<0.001, respectively). Non-smokers have 11 times and the non-AVNPP patient's 7.7 times greater probability of healing of the non-union. Meta-analysis of the data for time for healing showed a longer time in the smokers' group by 2.46 weeks, though non-statistically significant. The analysis could not prove that smoking is a predisposing factor for the development of AVNPP (spearman=0.094, p<0.05). Despite that, preoperative smoking cessation proved to be an inadequate healing moderator (OR=3.5, p=0.268). Finally, VBFs showed a significantly better healing rate compared with nVBGs in smokers (p=0.001). Conclusions: A hand surgeon should always take into consideration that smoking negatively influences the healing potential of a scaphoid non-union despite the theoretically superior biological background that VBFs offer. In patients who refuse to quit smoking, a VBF may be considered a better choice than a conventional graft.

Liner dissociation in a large-diameter ceramic-bearing acetabular component: a report of five cases.

BACKGROUND: Ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC) bearings for total hip arthroplasty (THA) have been offering very favorable results and survivorship since their introduction. In order to increase range of movement (ROM) and decrease dislocation rates, some manufacturers have introduced larger diameter head (LDH) CoC bearings. This has been achieved with the use of preassembled cup designs, in which the ceramic liner is already fitted into the metal backing and implanted as a monoblock component by the surgeon. In this report we present data from a series of 5 patients with ceramic liner dissociation from a monoblock cup. CASE PRESENTATION: All cases were overweight men with acetabular components of 56 or 58 mm. After a mean of 5.5 (range, 3.5-6.7) years, all patients reported sudden pain and audible noise when performing activities of daily living. Liner displacement was suspected on plain radiographs and confirmed by Ct-scan. Pneumarthrosis was present in all cases. Taper modular junction wear and corrosion signs were observed in the four revised patients. CONCLUSION: Although one of our case is still treated conservatively, implant revision is probably inevitable. Further LDH CoC implant design should take in consideration this potential complication by avoiding bearing diameters over 40mm and/or improving locking mechanism or by providing a real monoblock acetabular implant.

Restricted kinematic alignment leads to uncompromised osseointegration of cementless total knee arthroplasty.

PURPOSE: While kinematic alignment (KA) total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with cemented implants has been shown to provide equivalent or better results than mechanical alignment, its combination with cementless fixation has not yet been documented. The purpose of this study is to report (1) revision rate and causes, (2) clinical results based on patient report outcome measures (PROMs), and (3) radiological signs of implant dysfunction in patients with an uncemented TKA implanted with restricted KA (rKA), after a minimum follow-up of 2 years. METHODS: This study included the first 100 consecutive uncemented cruciate retaining TKAs implanted between November 2015 and February 2018 by a single surgeon following rKA principles. At last follow-up, all adverse events and PROMs assessed by WOMAC, KOOS, and FJS scores were documented. Radiographic evaluation was performed to identify signs of implant loosening. RESULTS: After a mean follow-up of 49 months (32, 60), no implant revision was performed for aseptic loosening. Three revisions were performed: one for malalignment, one for a deep infection, and one for instability. The mean WOMAC score was 20.1 (0-79, 21.3), the mean KOOS score was 71.5 (19.0-96.6, 19.8), and the mean FJS score was 65.9 (0-100, 29.6). No radiological evidence of implant aseptic loosening or osteolysis was identified. CONCLUSION: This study shows that in 99% of our cases, rKA combined with the tested cementless TKA implant allowed for adequate secondary fixation and good functional outcomes in the short term. Favourable mid- to long-term implant survivorship is anticipated. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty With the Use of Restricted Kinematic Alignment Protocol: Surgical Technique and Initial Results.

Purpose: Kinematic alignment (KA) for primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been shown to provide equivalent or better results to mechanical alignment (MA). The use of KA in revision TKA to restore the individual knee anatomy, kinematics, and soft-tissue balance, has not been documented yet. The purpose of this study is to describe the technique for performing TKA revision using the restricted KA (rKA) protocol and to report (1) rerevision rate and adverse events, (2) patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), and (3) radiological signs of implant dysfunction related to this technique. Methods: The rKA protocol was used in 43 selected TKA revisions cases suitable for the technique. Adverse events, reoperation, revision, and their causes were recorded. In addition, PROMs assessed by WOMAC score and radiographic evaluation to identify signs of implant dysfunction were documented at last follow-up. Results: After a mean follow-up of 4.0 years (0.9-7.7, ±2), only one rerevision (2.3%) was required for persisting instability (polyethylene liner exchange from posterior stabilized to a semi-constrained). Short-cemented stems were used for both the femur and tibia in 28 (65%) cases, for the femur alone in 13 (30%) cases, and no stems in two cases. In 31 (72%) cases, a standard posterior stabilized tibial insert was used, while 12 (28%) cases required a semi-constrained insert. The mean WOMAC score was 34.4 (0-80, ±21.7). Mean postoperative arithmetic hip-knee-ankle angle (HKA) was 0.8° varus (from 5° varus to 4° valgus), mean mechanical distal femoral angle was 1.7° valgus (from 2° varus to 5° valgus), and mean mechanical tibia proximal angle was 2.2° varus (from 5° varus to 1° valgus). No radiological evidence of aseptic loosening or periprosthetic radiolucencies were identified. Conclusion: Although current revision TKA implants are not ideal for revision TKA performed with rKA, they are an appealing alternative to MA, especially in cases of early, non-wear-related, unsuccessful MA TKAs. rKA TKA revision using short-cemented stems in conjunction with meticulous preoperative planning is safe in the mid-term. Level of evidence: IV.

Despite higher revision rate, MoM large-head THA offers better clinical scores than HR: 14-year results from a randomized controlled trial involving 48 patients.

BACKGROUND: The high failure rates of metal on metal (MoM) large diameter head total hip arthroplasty (LDH THA) and hip resurfacing (HR) prevented their long-term comparisons with regards to clinical outcome. Such knowledge would be important as ceramic LDH bearing is now available. With long-term follow-up, we investigated the difference in 1) patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs); 2) revision and adverse events rates, and 3) metal ion levels between MoM LDH THA and HR. METHODS: Forty-eight patients were randomized for LDH THA (24) or HR (24) with the same MoM articulation. At a mean follow-up of 14 years, we compared between groups different PROMs, the number of revisions and adverse events, whole blood Cobalt (Co) and Chromium (Cr) ion levels, and radiographic signs of implant dysfunction. RESULTS: LDH THA (all cases: revised and well-functioning) had significantly better WOMAC (94 versus 85, p = 0.04), and more frequently reported having no limitation (p = 0.04). LDH THA revision rate was 20.8% (5/24) versus 8.3% (2/24) for HR (p = 0.4). Mean Co and Cr ion levels were higher in LDH THA compared to the HR (Co: 3.8 µg/L vs 1.7 µg/L; p = 0.04 and Cr: 1.9 µg/L vs 1.4 µg/L, p = 0.1). On radiographic analyses, 2 LDH THAs showed signs of adverse reaction to metal debris, whereas 1 loose femoral HR component was documented. CONCLUSION: In the long-term, MoM LDH THA had a high trunnion related revision rate but nonetheless showed better PROMs compared to HR. Provided with a well-functioning modular junction, non-MoM LDH THA would offer an appealing option. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov ( NCT04516239 ), August 18, 2020. Retrospectively registered.

Highly Porous Titanium Acetabular Components in Primary and Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: A number of papers have been published reporting on the clinical performance of highly porous coated titanium acetabular cups in primary and revision total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, no systematic review of the literature has been published to date. METHODS: The US National Library of Medicine (PubMed/MEDLINE), Embase, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were queried for publications utilizing the following keywords: "tritanium" OR "highly-porous" AND "titanium" OR "acetabular" AND "trabecular" AND "titanium". RESULTS: Overall, 16 studies were included in this review (11,366 cases; 60% females, 2-7 years mean follow-up). The overall survival rate of highly porous titanium acetabular components in primary cases was 99.3% (10,811 of 10,886 cases), whereas the rate of aseptic loosening was 0.1%. The overall survival rate of the highly porous titanium acetabular components in revision THA cases was 93.5% (449 of 480 cases), whereas the rate of aseptic loosening was 2.1%. CONCLUSION: There was moderate quality evidence to show that the use of highly porous titanium acetabular components in primary and revision THA cases is associated with satisfactory clinical outcomes in the short- and medium-term, without showing any evidence of cup migration or radiolucency. Taking into consideration that there is no evidence yet regarding the long-term survivorship of these components, we feel that further research of higher quality is required to generate more evidence-based conclusions regarding the longevity of highly porous titanium acetabular implants compared with conventional titanium counterparts.

A Misguiding Osteoid Osteoma in the Bicipital Tuberosity of the Radius.

Osteoid osteoma is a benign bone tumor that appears most frequently in young patients. It is more common in males and it concerns mostly the long bones of the lower limb. A 20-year-old young woman presented to our outpatient department with pain in her left elbow. The symptoms began four years ago. At first, her symptoms were attributed to ulnar neuritis, confirmed by nerve conduction studies. In the following two years, she had undergone two surgical operations for decompression of the ulnar nerve. As a result, she reported poor results, which forced her to take frequently anti-inflammatory drugs for some years. When the patient presented to us, we planned a three-phase bone scan and an elbow MRI, which revealed the lesion. Based on the image findings of osteoid osteoma, we proceeded to the surgical removal of the tumor. Since then, the patient is pain-free and has a full range of motion of the affected elbow. Osteoid osteoma usually mimics multiple pathologies in the upper limb especially joint disease posing a challenge for the physician. The diagnosis requires high index of suspicion and a prompt diagnostic and surgical management.