Impressive Short-Term Improvement in Functional Outcome and Quality of Life after Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) in the Orthogeriatric Patient in a Prospective Monocentric Trial.

Background/Objectives: Osteoarthritis (OA) represents the most frequent chronic joint disease worldwide. Facing an aging population, resulting from the demographic change, the number of primary total hip arthroplasties (THA) will further increase. Although the geriatric patient strongly differs from the younger one, the current literature on elective orthopedic surgery in the geriatric patient is scarce. This work analyses, whether geriatric patients receiving primary THA significantly improve in terms of their (1) mobility and functional outcome and (2) health-related quality of life at four to six weeks as well as three months postoperatively. Methods: In a prospective study design, we analyzed 101 geriatric patients with osteoarthritis of the hip receiving primary THA. The study is part of the ongoing "Special Orthopaedic Geriatrics" (SOG) trial, which is funded by the German Federal Joint Committee (GBA). In addition to a preoperative comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA), the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) and the EQ5D-5L were imposed preoperatively (t0), at four to six weeks (t1), and at three months (t2) postoperatively. Results: The 101 enrolled patients had a mean age of 78.1 ± 4.9 years. The total WOMAC score and almost all subcategories significantly improved at four to six weeks as well as three months postoperatively in comparison to the preoperative results (p < 0.001). The same was observed for the EQ-5D-5L, showing significant improvement in overall health at both time points (p < 0.001) and all subcategories (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This study implies that a geriatric patient benefits as much from elective primary THA as a younger patient. However, the preoperative comprehensive geriatric assessment with screening for risk factors is of utmost importance. Regarding the aging population, a lot of effort is needed to obtain more knowledge about geriatric patients receiving elective orthopedic surgery.

[Risk and complication profiles of orthogeriatric patients in elective hip and knee joint replacement]. / Risiko- und Komplikationsprofil orthogeriatrischer Patienten bei elektivem Hüft- und Kniegelenkersatz.

BACKGROUND: The care of geriatric patients undergoing elective orthopedic surgery is becoming increasingly more important due to demographic trends. Compared to geriatric traumatology, however, there are still no established orthogeriatric care models in Germany and therefore hardly any scientific data. The aim of this study was to describe the risk and complication profiles in older patients with elective hip and knee replacements. METHODS: In a prospective study data were collected from orthogeriatric patients with indications for elective hip and knee replacement surgery who fulfilled defined inclusion and exclusion criteria between January 2021 and August 2023 in the orthopedic department of a German university hospital for the descriptive analysis of risk and complication profiles. In addition to a preoperative and perioperative data analysis, a follow-up was conducted 4-6 weeks and 3 months postoperatively. RESULTS: The surgical risk profile of the patient population analyzed was characterized by advanced age (78.4 ± 4.8 years), preobesity/obesity (76%), multimorbidity (7.4 ± 3.1 comorbidities), polypharmacy (7.5 ± 3.8 medications), immobility (short physical performance battery 7.1 ± 2.6), prefrailty/frailty (87%), frequent anticoagulation (22%) and a high number of potentially inappropriate medications (64%). Complication events mainly occurred within the first 7 days postoperatively and 90% of the events within this recording period were minor complications. The overall complication rate significantly decreased in the follow-up period. CONCLUSION: Due to the high risk and complication profiles the routine use of orthogeriatric co-management models for elective orthopedic surgery should be considered in the future.

Acute compartment syndrome of the thigh after total knee arthroplasty: a case report.

INTRODUCTION: Acute compartment syndrome of the thigh after total knee arthroplasty is a rarely described complication. After the assessment of the diagnosis, immediate surgical intervention is necessary to prevent further tissue damage. Since only a few cases have been described and because of the high complication rate, early detection is essential for ensuring patient outcomes. CASE PRESENTATION: After total knee arthroplasty in a high-volume university hospital, a 57-year-old Caucasian female patient experienced strong, disproportional pain in the ventromedial thigh of the affected leg, which did not respond to an adequate adjustment in pain medication. Imaging revealed a distinct swelling of the vastus intermedius muscle. This resulted in acute compartment syndrome of the thigh, which was immediately surgically treated. Apart from receiving surgery distal from the affected compartment and continuous intake of acetylsalicylic acid, the patient had no risk factors for developing compartment syndrome. The patient's recovery was uneventful, with timely wound closure and discharge to outpatient care without significant functional limitations. CONCLUSION: Acute compartment syndrome of the thigh represents a rare, but severe complication that can occur after orthopedic surgery. In our case, no triggering factors for the development of acute compartment syndrome, such as the use of a tourniquet, were detected. Even in unusual locations, compartment syndrome should be considered as a differential diagnosis. With sufficient evidence, immediate fasciotomy should be indicated.

The impact of primary total hip and knee replacement on frailty: an observational prospective analysis.

BACKGROUND: Osteoarthritis is a prevalent condition in frail older adults that requires hip or knee replacement in many patients. The aim of the study was to determine the impact of hip and knee arthroplasty on frailty. METHODS: In this prospective short-term study, we used data from 101 participants of the ongoing Special Orthopaedic Geriatrics (SOG) trial, funded by the German Federal Joint Committee (GBA). Frailty, measured by Fried's Physical Frailty Phenotype (PFP), was assessed preoperatively, 7 days postoperatively, 4-6 weeks and 3 months after hip and knee arthroplasty. ANOVA with repeated measures and post-hoc tests for the subgroups were used for the statistical analysis. RESULTS: Of the 101 participants, 50 were pre-frail (1-2 PFP criteria) and 51 were frail (≥ 3 PFP criteria) preoperatively. In the pre-frail group, the PFP score decreased from 1.56 ± 0.50 (median 2) preoperatively to 0.53 ± 0.73 (median 0) 3 months after surgery (p < 0.001). The PFP score in the frail cohort decreased from 3.39 ± 1.45 (median 3) preoperatively to 1.27 ± 1.14 (median 1) 3 months postoperatively (p < 0.001). While the PFP score of the pre-frail participants increased 7 days after surgery, the PFP score of the frail group decreased significantly. CONCLUSION: Pre-frail individuals often regain robustness and patients with frailty are no longer assessed as frail after surgery. Joint replacement is an effective intervention to improve frailty in hip and knee osteoarthritis. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study is part of the Special Orthopaedic Geriatrics (SOG) trial, German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00024102. Registered on 19 January 2021.

[Fast-Track-Arthroplasty]. / Fast-Track-Endoprothetik.

INTRODUCTION: Essential components of fast-track or enhanced recovery programs in arthroplasty are the optimization of interdisciplinary organizational processes, as well as pre-, intra- and postoperative procedures in everyday clinical practice. The early postoperative mobilization of patients after joint replacement surgery is of central importance, with the aim of avoiding pain and complications. This article provides a detailed overview of fast-track procedures that have already been established in many units. Furthermore, it demonstrates the clinical advantages of FastTrack for total hip arthroplasty (THA) in an evidence-based manner within the framework of a randomized study design. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 194 primary THA patients were examined after randomization into two single-blinded groups; Fast-Track (n = 98) or conventional treatment path (n = 96). Mobilization was defined as the primary outcome parameter, measured in seconds using the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG). Secondary parameters were the achievable walking distance in meters and pain using the numerical rating scale (NRS). All parameters were recorded preoperatively and daily until the sixth postoperative day. RESULTS: No complications or revisions were recorded within the first postoperative week. The fast-track group showed significantly better TUG values and walking distance results compared to the conventional group until the sixth postoperative day (p < 0.05, respectively). There was no significant difference regarding the pain assessment (NRS) (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The use of Fast-Track in hip arthroplasty can evidently improve short-term postoperative clinical outcomes. This first prospective, single-blinded, randomized controlled study showed very good clinical results with comparable pain after FastTrack THA compared to a conventional treatment path. Fast-Track concepts are highly effective in terms of early mobilization and clinical outcome-without incurring a higher risk of complications in the short term.

[SOG-Special Orthopedic Geriatrics : First interim results of a randomized controlled study on integrated orthogeriatric care in elective hip and knee arthroplasty]. / SOG ­ Spezielle Orthopädische Geriatrie : Erste Zwischenergebnisse einer randomisierten kontrollierten Studie zur integrierten orthogeriatrischen Versorgung in der elektiven Hüft- und Kniegelenkendoprothetik.

BACKGROUND: To date, there are no adequate care concepts for geriatric patients undergoing elective orthopaedic surgery in Germany. The Special Orthopaedic Geriatrics (SOG) study evaluates for the first time in Germany the impact of comprehensive orthogeriatric co-management on the outcome of elderly patients with elective hip and knee replacements compared to standard orthopaedic care. METHODS: The interim analysis of the ongoing study included 174 patients; 87 patients were randomized to the intervention group and 87 to the control group. The SOG care model consists of screening, preoperative assessment with preoperative intervention, fast-track surgery and multimodal perioperative care in the orthogeriatric team. The control group received standard orthopaedic care. Mobility, complications, and patient-reported outcome measures after surgery were compared. RESULTS: The SOG group showed a clinically relevant improvement in mobility postoperatively compared to the control group at all time points (p < 0.01). The evaluation of complications showed a significant risk reduction for minor complications (p < 0.01), as well as a clear trend towards a risk reduction for major complications. Patient-reported outcome measures showed a significant improvement in joint function and general health-related quality of life both in the SOG group and the control group. CONCLUSION: Integrated orthogeriatric care models such as SOG could improve the care of geriatric patients in elective orthopaedic surgery in the future and, above all, make it safer.

[Navigation and robotics-current status and future implications]. / Navigation und Robotik ­ status präsens und zukünftige Implikationen.

INTRODUCTION: Both navigation systems and robotics enable greater precision in the implantation of an artificial knee joint. However, they do not improve clinical outcomes. We hypothesized that although implantation of a total knee arthroplasty results in reconstruction of the alignment in the coronal plane, the variable rotational tibial and variable translational femoral and tibial component positioning lead to a change in the remaining alignment parameters of the lower extremity. However, these parameters could be determined using a navigation system or robot and could represent future implications for these systems. METHODS: The kinematics and the position between femur and tibia before and after implantation of a total knee arthroplasty were determined using a navigation system in nine healthy knee joints of Thiel-fixed whole-body cadavers. RESULTS: After arthroplasty, there was no change in the natural coronal alignment. In extension and the early degrees of flexion, the rotational position of the femur relative to the tibia was altered. This also led to a change in the positioning of the medial and lateral epicondyle in relation to the tibia; while both epicondyles were positioned more laterally in relation to the tibia after arthroplasty, the lateral epicondyle was significantly more lateral in relation to the tibia up to 20° of flexion. DISCUSSION: Following arthroplasty of a knee joint using the established technique, a good reconstruction of the coronal alignment was achieved with simultaneous changes in the alignment in both the rotational and translational directions between the femur and tibia. Using navigation as well as robotics, we would be able to quantify all alignment parameters and could achieve an alignment of the components or a reconstruction of the overall alignment in all six degrees of freedom. We might also be able to achieve a clinical advantage or increase the service life even further.

Better early outcome with enhanced recovery total hip arthroplasty (ERAS-THA) versus conventional setup in randomized clinical trial (RCT).

INTRODUCTION: Numbers of total hip arthroplasty (THA) are steadily rising and patients expect faster mobility without pain postoperatively. The aim of enhanced recovery after Surgery (ERAS) programs in a multidisciplinary setup was to keep pace with the needs of quality and quantity of surgical THA-interventions and patients' expectations. METHODS: 194 patients undergoing THA procedures were investigated after single-blinded randomization to ERAS (98) or conventional setup group (96). Primary outcome variable was mobilization measured with the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) in seconds. Secondary outcome variables were floor count and walking distance in meters as well as rest, mobilization and night pain on a numerous rating scale (NRS). All variables were recorded preoperatively and daily until the sixth postoperative day. To assess and compare clinical outcome and patient satisfaction, the PPP33-Score and PROMs were used. RESULTS: No complications such as thromboembolic complications, fractures or revisions were recorded within the first week postoperatively in either study group. Compared to the conventional group, the ERAS group showed significantly better TUG (p < 0.050) and walking distance results after surgery up to the sixth, and floor count up to the third postoperative day. On the first and second postoperative day, ERAS patients showed superior results (p < 0.001) in all independent activity subitems. Regarding the evaluation of pain (NRS), PPP33 and PROMS, no significant difference was shown (p > 0.050). CONCLUSION: This prospective single-blinded randomized controlled clinical trial was able to demonstrate excellent outcome with comparable pain after ERAS THA versus a conventional setup. Therefore, ERAS could be used in daily clinical practice.

Influence of bone mineral density on femoral stem subsidence after cementless THA.

INTRODUCTION: Femoral stem subsidence can lead to aseptic loosening after total hip arthroplasty (THA). Low bone mineral density (BMD) is a risk factor for stem subsidence as it can affect the initial stability and osteointegration. We evaluated whether reduced bone mineral density is related to higher subsidence of the femoral stem after primary cementless THA with enhanced recovery rehabilitation. METHODS: 79 patients who had undergone primary cementless THA with enhanced recovery rehabilitation were analyzed retrospectively. Subsidence of the femoral stem was measured on standing pelvic anterior-posterior radiographs after 4-6 weeks and one year. Patient individual risk factors for stem subsidence (stem size, canal flare index, canal fill ratio, body mass index (BMI), demographic data) were correlated. Dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans were performed of the formal neck and the lumbar spine including the calculation of T-score and Z-score. Patient-reported outcome measures were evaluated 12 months postoperatively. RESULTS: Stem subsidence appeared regardless of BMD (overall collective 2.3 ± 1.64 mm). Measure of subsidence was even higher in patients with normal BMD (2.8 ± 1.7 mm vs. 2.0 ± 1.5 mm, p = 0.05). High BMI was correlated with increased stem subsidence (p = 0.015). Subsidence had no impact on improvement of patient-related outcome measures (WOMAC, EQ-5D-5L and EQ-VAS) after THA. Patients with low BMD reported lower quality of life 12 month postoperatively compared to patients with normal BMD (EQ-5D-5L 0.82 vs. 0.91, p = 0.03). CONCLUSION: Stable fixation of a cementless stem succeeds also in patients with reduced BMD. Regarding stem subsidence, enhanced recovery rehabilitation can be safely applied in patients with low BMD.

Arthrosis diagnosis and treatment recommendations in clinical practice: an exploratory investigation with the generative AI model GPT-4.

BACKGROUND: The spread of artificial intelligence (AI) has led to transformative advancements in diverse sectors, including healthcare. Specifically, generative writing systems have shown potential in various applications, but their effectiveness in clinical settings has been barely investigated. In this context, we evaluated the proficiency of ChatGPT-4 in diagnosing gonarthrosis and coxarthrosis and recommending appropriate treatments compared with orthopaedic specialists. METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted using anonymized medical records of 100 patients previously diagnosed with either knee or hip arthrosis. ChatGPT-4 was employed to analyse these historical records, formulating both a diagnosis and potential treatment suggestions. Subsequently, a comparative analysis was conducted to assess the concordance between the AI's conclusions and the original clinical decisions made by the physicians. RESULTS: In diagnostic evaluations, ChatGPT-4 consistently aligned with the conclusions previously drawn by physicians. In terms of treatment recommendations, there was an 83% agreement between the AI and orthopaedic specialists. The therapeutic concordance was verified by the calculation of a Cohen's Kappa coefficient of 0.580 (p < 0.001). This indicates a moderate-to-good level of agreement. In recommendations pertaining to surgical treatment, the AI demonstrated a sensitivity and specificity of 78% and 80%, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression demonstrated that the variables reduced quality of life (OR 49.97, p < 0.001) and start-up pain (OR 12.54, p = 0.028) have an influence on ChatGPT-4's recommendation for a surgery. CONCLUSION: This study emphasises ChatGPT-4's notable potential in diagnosing conditions such as gonarthrosis and coxarthrosis and in aligning its treatment recommendations with those of orthopaedic specialists. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that AI tools such as ChatGPT-4 are not meant to replace the nuanced expertise and clinical judgment of seasoned orthopaedic surgeons, particularly in complex decision-making scenarios regarding treatment indications. Due to the exploratory nature of the study, further research with larger patient populations and more complex diagnoses is necessary to validate the findings and explore the broader potential of AI in healthcare. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III evidence.

The impact of elective total hip and knee arthroplasty on physical performance in orthogeriatric patients: a prospective intervention study.

BACKGROUND: Osteoarthritis is a prevalent condition in older adults that leads to reduced physical function in many patients and ultimately requires hip or knee replacement. The aim of the study was to determine the impact of hip and knee arthroplasty on the physical performance of orthogeriatric patients with osteoarthritis. METHODS: In this prospective study, we used data from 135 participants of the ongoing Special Orthopaedic Geriatrics (SOG) trial, funded by the German Federal Joint Committee (GBA). Physical function, measured by the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), was assessed preoperatively, 3 and 7 days postoperatively, 4-6 weeks and 3 months after hip and knee arthroplasty. For the statistical analysis, the Friedman test and post-hoc tests were used. RESULTS: Of the 135 participants with a mean age of 78.5 ± 4.6 years, 81 underwent total hip arthroplasty and 54 total knee arthroplasty. In the total population, SPPB improved by a median of 2 points 3 months after joint replacement (p < 0.001). In the hip replacement group, SPPB increased by a median of 2 points 3 months after surgery (p < 0.001). At 3 months postoperatively, the SPPB increased by a median of 1 point in the knee replacement group (p = 0.003). CONCLUSION: Elective total hip and knee arthroplasty leads to a clinically meaningful improvement in physical performance in orthogeriatric patients with osteoarthritis after only a few weeks. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study is part of the Special Orthopaedic Geriatrics (SOG) trial, German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00024102. Registered on 19 January 2021.

Isokinetic knee muscle strength comparison after enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) versus conventional setup in total knee arthroplasty (TKA): a single blinded prospective randomized study.

PURPOSE: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) combined with the concept of enhanced recovery is of continued worldwide interest, as it is reported to improve early functional outcome and treatment quality without increasing complications. The aim of the study was to investigate isokinetic knee muscle strength after cemented TKA in combination with an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) compared to a conventional setup. METHODS: In the single blinded prospective randomized study, 52 patients underwent navigated primary cemented TKA within an ERAS (n = 30) or a conventional setup (n = 22). Preoperatively, five days and four weeks after surgery isokinetic knee muscle strength with BIODEX-type measuring device (peak torque in Nm, work in Joules and power in Watt) and subjective patient-related outcome measures (PROMs) were investigated. RESULTS: The ERAS group showed significantly better outcomes in knee flexion at 180°/s (peak torque (Nm) p = 0.047, work (J) p = 0.040 and power (W) p = 0.016) 5 days postoperatively. The isokinetic measuring at knee extension 60°/s and 180°/s demonstrated no significant difference. The PROMs showed that patients were satisfied with the postoperative results in both groups. After 4 weeks, there was no longer a significant difference in isokinetic measuring at knee extension and flexion between the ERAS and conventional group. CONCLUSIONS: TKA with the concept of ERAS improves excellent isokinetic outcome and patient satisfaction. The isokinetic muscle strength measurement can help patients and surgeons to modify expectations and improve patient satisfaction.

Linking human Dead end 1 (DND1) variants to male infertility employing zebrafish embryos.

STUDY QUESTION: Is the vertebrate protein Dead end (DND1) a causative factor for human infertility and can novel in vivo assays in zebrafish help in evaluating this? SUMMARY ANSWER: Combining patient genetic data with functional in vivo assays in zebrafish reveals a possible role for DND1 in human male fertility. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: About 7% of the male population is affected by infertility but linking specific gene variants to the disease is challenging. The function of the DND1 protein was shown to be critical for germ cell development in several model organisms but a reliable and cost-effective method for evaluating the activity of the protein in the context of human male infertility is still missing. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: Exome data from 1305 men included in the Male Reproductive Genomics cohort were examined in this study. A total of 1114 of the patients showed severely impaired spermatogenesis but were otherwise healthy. Eighty-five men with intact spermatogenesis were included in the study as controls. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS: We screened the human exome data for rare, stop-gain, frameshift, splice site, as well as missense variants in DND1. The results were validated by Sanger sequencing. Immunohistochemical techniques and, when possible, segregation analyses were performed for patients with identified DND1 variants. The amino acid exchange in the human variant was mimicked at the corresponding site of the zebrafish protein. Using different aspects of germline development in live zebrafish embryos as biological assays, we examined the activity level of these DND1 protein variants. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: In human exome sequencing data, we identified four heterozygous variants in DND1 (three missense and one frameshift variant) in five unrelated patients. The function of all of the variants was examined in the zebrafish and one of those was studied in more depth in this model. We demonstrate the use of zebrafish assays as a rapid and effective biological readout for evaluating the possible impact of multiple gene variants on male fertility. This in vivo approach allowed us to assess the direct impact of the variants on germ cell function in the context of the native germline. Focusing on the DND1 gene, we find that zebrafish germ cells, expressing orthologs of DND1 variants identified in infertile men, failed to arrive correctly at the position where the gonad develops and exhibited defects in cell fate maintenance. Importantly, our analysis facilitated the evaluation of single nucleotide variants, whose impact on protein function is difficult to predict, and allowed us to distinguish variants that do not affect the protein's activity from those that strongly reduce it and could thus potentially be the primary cause for the pathological condition. These aberrations in germline development resemble the testicular phenotype of azoospermic patients. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: The pipeline we present requires access to zebrafish embryos and to basic imaging equipment. The notion that the activity of the protein in the zebrafish-based assays is relevant for the human homolog is well supported by previous knowledge. Nevertheless, the human protein may differ in some respects from its homologue in zebrafish. Thus, the assay should be considered only one of the parameters used in defining DND1 variants as causative or non-causative for infertility. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: Using DND1 as an example, we have shown that the approach described in this study, relying on bridging between clinical findings and fundamental cell biology, can help to establish links between novel human disease candidate genes and fertility. In particular, the power of the approach we developed is manifested by the fact that it allows the identification of DND1 variants that arose de novo. The strategy presented here can be applied to different genes in other disease contexts. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S): This study was funded by the German Research Foundation, Clinical Research Unit, CRU326 'Male Germ Cells'. There are no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: N/A.

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Elective and Emergency Inpatient Procedure Volumes in Switzerland - A Retrospective Study Based on Insurance Claims Data.

BACKGROUND: The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS­CoV­2) pandemic forced hospitals to redistribute resources for the treatment of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), yet the impact on elective and emergency inpatient procedure volumes is unclear. METHODS: We analyzed anonymized data on 234 921 hospitalizations in 2017-2020 (55.9% elective) from a big Swiss health insurer. We used linear regression models to predict, based on pre-pandemic data, the expected weekly numbers of procedures in 2020 in the absence of a pandemic and compared these to the observed numbers in 2020. Compensation effects were investigated by discretely integrating the difference between the two numbers over time. RESULTS: During the first COVID-19 wave in spring 2020, elective procedure numbers decreased by 52.9% (95% confidence interval -64.5% to -42.5%), with cardiovascular and orthopedic elective procedure numbers specifically decreasing by 45.5% and 72.4%. Elective procedure numbers normalized during summer with some compensation of postponed procedures, leaving a deficit of -9.9% (-15.8% to -4.5%) for the whole year 2020. Emergency procedure numbers also decreased by 17.1% (-23.7% to -9.8%) during the first wave, but over the whole year 2020, net emergency procedure volumes were similar to control years. CONCLUSION: Inpatient procedure volumes in Switzerland decreased considerably in the beginning of the pandemic but recovered quickly after the first wave. Still, there was a net deficit in procedures at the end of the year. Health system leaders must work to ensure that adequate access to non-COVID-19 related care is maintained during future pandemic phases in order to prevent negative health consequences.

Delay of total joint replacement is associated with a higher 90-day revision rate and increased postoperative complications.

PURPOSE: Delay of elective surgeries, such as total joint replacement (TJR), is a common procedure in the current pandemic. In trauma surgery, postponement is associated with increased complication rates. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of postponement on surgical revision rates and postoperative complications after elective TJR. METHODS: In a retrospective analysis of 10,140 consecutive patients undergoing primary total hip replacement (THR) or total knee replacement (TKR) between 2011 and 2020, the effect of surgical delay on 90-day surgical revision rate, as well as internal and surgical complication rates, was investigated in a university high-volume arthroplasty center using the institute's joint registry and data of the hospital administration. Moreover, multivariate logistic regression models were used to adjust for confounding variables. RESULTS: Two thousand four hundred and eighty TJRs patients were identified with a mean delay of 13.5 ± 29.6 days. Postponed TJR revealed a higher 90-day revision rate (7.1-4.5%, p < 0.001), surgical complications (3.2-1.9%, p < 0.001), internal complications (1.8-1.2% p < 0.041) and transfusion rate (2.6-1.8%, p < 0.023) than on-time TJR. Logistic regression analysis confirmed delay of TJRs as independent risk factor for 90-day revision rate [OR 1.42; 95% CI (1.18-1.72); p < 0.001] and surgical complication rates [OR 1.51; 95% CI (1.14-2.00); p = 0.04]. CONCLUSION: Alike trauma surgery, delay in elective primary TJR correlates with higher revision and complication rates. Therefore, scheduling should be performed under consideration of the current COVID-19 pandemic. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III-retrospective cohort study.

Special orthopaedic geriatrics (SOG) - a new multiprofessional care model for elderly patients in elective orthopaedic surgery: a study protocol for a prospective randomized controlled trial of a multimodal intervention in frail patients with hip and knee replacement.

BACKGROUND: Due to demographic change, the number of older people in Germany and worldwide will continue to rise in the coming decades. As a result, the number of elderly and frail patients undergoing total hip and knee arthroplasty is projected to increase significantly in the coming years. In order to reduce risk of complications and improve postoperative outcome, it can be beneficial to optimally prepare geriatric patients before orthopaedic surgery and to provide perioperative care by a multiprofessional orthogeriatric team. The aim of this comprehensive interventional study is to assess wether multimorbid patients can benefit from the new care model of special orthopaedic geriatrics (SOG) in elective total hip and knee arthroplasty. METHODS: The SOG study is a registered, monocentric, prospective, randomized controlled trial (RCT) funded by the German Federal Joint Committee (GBA). This parallel group RCT with a total of 310 patients is intended to investigate the specially developed multimodal care model for orthogeriatric patients with total hip and knee arthroplasty (intervention group), which already begins preoperatively, in comparison to the usual orthopaedic care without orthogeriatric co-management (control group). Patients ≥70 years of age with multimorbidity or generally patients ≥80 years of age due to increased vulnerability with indication for elective primary total hip and knee arthroplasty can be included in the study. Exclusion criteria are age < 70 years, previous bony surgery or tumor in the area of the joint to be treated, infection and increased need for care (care level ≥ 4). The primary outcome is mobility measured by the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Secondary outcomes are morbidity, mortality, postoperative complications, delirium, cognition, mood, frailty, (instrumental) activities of daily living, malnutrition, pain, polypharmacy, and patient reported outcome measures. Tertiary outcomes are length of hospital stay, readmission rate, reoperation rate, transfusion rate, and time to rehabilitation. The study data will be collected preoperative, postoperative day 1 to 7, 4 to 6 weeks and 3 months after surgery. DISCUSSION: Studies have shown that orthogeriatric co-management models in the treatment of hip fractures lead to significantly reduced morbidity and mortality rates. However, there are hardly any data available on the elective orthopaedic care of geriatric patients, especially in total hip and knee arthroplasty. In contrast to the care of trauma patients, optimal preoperative intervention is usually possible. TRIAL REGISTRATION: German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00024102. Registered on 19 January 2021.

[Preoperative screening for risk factors]. / Präoperatives Screening für Risikofaktoren.

The demographic change and continuously improving healthcare lead to increasing numbers of older, comorbid patients in elective orthopedic surgery. Perioperative risk assessment is crucial for patient counseling and preoperative planning. Risk factors, such as heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, peripheral arterial occlusive disease, anemia, malnutrition, obesity, smoking and insufficiently controlled diabetes mellitus are common in patients undergoing elective orthopedic surgery. A thorough and early screening not only enables the individual assessment of the risk profile but in an elective setting also enables the chance for modification of certain risk factors in order to reduce the individual perioperative risk. Meanwhile, recommendations regarding risk stratification and adjustment of modifiable risk factors are included in national guidelines on the indications for elective total hip arthroplasty.

Hospital frailty risk score predicts adverse events in spine surgery.

PURPOSE: The Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS) is derived from routinely collected data and validated as a geriatric risk stratification tool. This study aimed to evaluate the utility of the HFRS as a predictor for postoperative adverse events in spine surgery. METHODS: In this retrospective analysis of 2042 patients undergoing spine surgery at a university spine center between 2011 and 2019, HFRS was calculated for each patient. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the relationship between the HFRS and postoperative adverse events. Adverse events were compared between patients with high or low frailty risk. RESULTS: Patients with intermediate or high frailty risk showed a higher rate of reoperation (19.7% vs. 12.2%, p < 0.01), surgical site infection (3.4% vs. 0.4%, p < 0.001), internal complications (4.1% vs. 1.1%, p < 0.01), Clavien-Dindo IV complications (8.8% vs. 3.4%, p < 0.001) and transfusion (10.9% vs. 1.5%, p < 0.001). Multivariable logistic regression analyses revealed a high HFRS as independent risk factor for reoperation [odds ratio (OR) = 1.1; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.0-1.2], transfusion (OR = 1.3; 95% CI 1.2-1.4), internal complications (OR = 1.2; 95% CI 1.1-1.3), surgical site infections (OR = 1.3; 95% CI 1.2-1.5) and other complications (OR = 1.3; 95% CI 1.2-1.4). CONCLUSION: The HFRS can predict adverse events and is an easy instrument, fed from routine hospital data. By identifying risk patients at an early stage, the individual patient risk could be minimized, which leads to less complications and lower costs. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III - retrospective cohort study TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study was approved by the local ethics committee (20-1821-104) of the University of Regensburg in February 2020.

[Risk management in orthopedic surgery : Stratification and adjustment of patient-individual risk factors]. / Risikomanagement in der orthopädischen Chirurgie : Stratifizierung und Adjustierung patientenindividueller Risikofaktoren.

Preoperative identification of patients at risk of postoperative complications enables better patient education and surgical planning for the orthopedic surgeon. In addition to demographic and intervention-specific factors, a variety of instruments are available for individual risk assessment. The concept of frailty seems to be promising to identify patients at risk. Modifiable risk factors such as malnutrition, anemia, obesity, smoking, and insufficiently controlled diabetes mellitus are common in elective orthopedic patients. With the use of screening protocols, modifiable risk factors can be identified and optimized preoperatively in order to reduce the individual risk of complications. Recommendations regarding preoperative risk stratification and modification prior to elective hip replacement have meanwhile been incorporated in national guidelines.

Implementing fast-track in total hip arthroplasty: rapid mobilization with low need for pain medication and low pain values : Retrospective analysis of 102 consecutive patients.

INTRODUCTION: Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is reported to be one of the most painful surgical procedures. Perioperative management and rehabilitation patterns are of great importance for the success of the procedure. The aim of this cohort study was the evaluation of function, mobilization and pain scores during the inpatient stay (6 days postoperatively) and 4 weeks after fast-track THA. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 102 consecutive patients were included in this retrospective cohort trial after minimally invasive cementless total hip arthroplasty under spinal anesthesia in a fast-track setup. The extent of mobilization under full-weight-bearing with crutches (walking distance in meters and necessity of nurse aid) and pain values using a numerical rating scale (NRS) were measured. Function was evaluated measuring the range of motion (ROM) and the ability of sitting on a chair, walking and personal hygiene. Furthermore, circumferences of thighs were measured to evaluate the extent of postoperative swelling. The widespread Harris Hip Score (HHS) was used to compare results pre- and 4 weeks postoperatively. RESULTS: Evaluation of pain scores in the postoperative course showed a constant decrease in the first postoperative week (days 1-6 postoperatively). The pain scores before surgery were significantly higher than surgery (day 6), during mobilization (p < 0.001), at rest (p < 0.001) and at night (p < 0.001). All patients were able to mobilize on the day of surgery. In addition, there was a significant improvement in independent activities within the first 6 days postoperatively: sitting on a chair (p < 0.001), walking (p < 0.001) and personal hygiene (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference between the measured preoperative and postoperative (day 6 after surgery) thigh circumferences above the knee joint. Compared to preoperatively, there was a significant (p < 0.001) improvement of the HHS 4 weeks after surgery. In 100% of the cases, the operation was reported to be successful and all of the treated patients would choose a fast-track setup again. CONCLUSION: Application of a fast-track scheme is effective regarding function and mobilization of patients. Low pain values and rapid improvement of walking distance confirms the success of the fast-track concept in the immediate postoperative course. Future prospective studies have to confirm the results comparing a conventional and a fast-track pathway.