Multidisciplinary Teams in Musculoskeletal Infection - From a Pathologist's Perspective.

Multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings have emerged as a promising approach for the treatment of cancer patients. These meetings involve a team of healthcare professionals from different disciplines working together to develop a holistic, patient-centered treatment. Although MDT meetings are well established in oncology, they play a minor role in other diseases. Recent evidence suggests that the implementation of MDT meetings can improve patient outcomes in musculoskeletal infections. The aim of this retrospective, observational study was to present the agenda of our multidisciplinary limb board including live microscopy with a special focus on the pathologist's role. The descriptive analysis of the limb board included 66 cases receiving live microscopy at the meeting and a total of 124 histopathological findings and 181 stainings. We could elucidate that pathologists seem to play an important role especially in clarifying the correct diagnosis. In 80.3 % of the findings, the pathologist specified the clinical diagnosis of the requesting physician leading to a consensus-based treatment plan for each patient. The implementation of MDT meetings including live microscopy in patients with musculoskeletal infections holds potential benefits, such as improved communication, scientific collaboration, and raising clinicians' awareness and understanding of histopathology findings. However, potential challenges, such as organizational effort and technical prerequisites should be considered.

Managing more than bones: the psychological impact of a recurrent fracture-related infection.

Aims: Fracture-related infections (FRIs) are a devastating complication of fracture management. However, the impact of FRIs on mental health remains understudied. The aim of this study was a longitudinal evaluation of patients' psychological state, and expectations for recovery comparing patients with recurrent FRI to those with primary FRI. Methods: A prospective longitudinal study was conducted at a level 1 trauma centre from January 2020 to December 2022. In total, 56 patients treated for FRI were enrolled. The ICD-10 symptom rating (ISR) and an expectation questionnaire were assessed at five timepoints: preoperatively, one month postoperatively, and at three, six, and 12 months. Results: Recurrent FRI cases consistently exceeded the symptom burden threshold (0.60) in ISR scores at all assessment points. The difference between preoperative-assessed total ISR scores and the 12-month follow-up was not significant in either group, with 0.04 for primary FRI (p = 0.807) and 0.01 for recurrent FRI (p = 0.768). While primary FRI patients showed decreased depression scores post surgery, recurrent FRI cases experienced an increase, reaching a peak at 12 months (1.92 vs 0.94; p < 0.001). Anxiety scores rose for both groups after surgery, notably higher in recurrent FRI cases (1.39 vs 1.02; p < 0.001). Moreover, patients with primary FRI reported lower expectations of returning to normal health at three (1.99 vs 1.11; p < 0.001) and 12 months (2.01 vs 1.33; p = 0.006). Conclusion: The findings demonstrate the significant psychological burden experienced by individuals undergoing treatment for FRI, which is more severe in recurrent FRI. Understanding the psychological dimensions of recurrent FRIs is crucial for comprehensive patient care, and underscores the importance of integrating psychological support into the treatment paradigm for such cases.

Midterm survival and risk factor analysis in patients with pyogenic vertebral osteomyelitis: a retrospective study of 155 cases.

Background: Pyogenic vertebral osteomyelitis (VO) represents a clinical challenge and is linked to substantial morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to examine mortality as well as potential risk factors contributing to in-hospital mortality among patients with VO. Methods: This retrospective analysis involved patients receiving treatment for VO at University Regensburg in Germany from January 1, 2000, to December 3, 2020. It included in-hospital mortality rate, comorbidities and pathogens. Patients were identified using ICD-10 diagnosis codes: M46.2, M46.3, M46.4, and M46.5. Kaplan-Meier probability plots and odds ratios (OR) for mortality were calculated. Results: Out of the total cohort of 155 patients with VO, 53 patients (34.1%) died during a mean follow-up time of 87.8 ± 70.8 months. The overall mortality was 17.2% at one year, 19.9% at two years and 28.3% at five years. Patients with congestive heart failure (p = 0.005), renal disease (p < 0.001), symptoms of paraplegia (p = 0.029), and sepsis (p = 0.006) demonstrated significantly higher overall mortality rates. In 56.1% of cases, pathogens were identified, with Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and other unidentified pathogens being the most common. Renal disease (OR 1.85) and congestive heart failure (OR 1.52) were identified as significant risk factors. Conclusion: Early assessment of the specific risk factors for each patient may prove beneficial in the management and treatment of VO to reduce the risk of mortality. These findings demonstrate the importance of close monitoring of VO patients with underlying chronic organ disease and early identification and treatment of sepsis. Prioritizing identification of the exact pathogens and antibiotic sensitivity testing can improve outcomes for patients in this high-risk group.

Risk of surgical site infection after hip hemiarthroplasty of femoral neck fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Surgical site infection (SSI) is a major complication following hemiarthroplasty surgery for displaced neck of femur fractures. Our aim is to systematically analyse relevant peer-reviewed studies for recent clinical information on the quantitative risk of surgical site infection (SSI) after hemiarthroplasty (HA) of hip fracture patients and on the factors which influence the SSI rates. METHODS: A comprehensive search of electronic databases (PubMed, Cochrane) was performed for clinical articles published between 2005 and 2023 and systematically reviewed with a defined list of inclusion and exclusion criteria. The methodology was undertaken and reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement checklist, while the detailed search strings and study protocol were published in PROSPERO (CRD42023458150). The pooled risks of SSIs were calculated in both primary and subgroup analyses. RESULTS: The primary analysis showed a pooled superficial SSI rate after hemiarthroplasty of 1.3% (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.71; 2.04) from 17 studies with 29,288 patients and a deep SSI rate of 2.14% (1.87; 2.42) from 29 studies with 192,392 patients. Higher infection rates were observed with longer follow-up periods for deep SSI: pooled rates increased from 1.24% (0.73; 1.87) at 1 month to 2.64% (2.03; 3.31) at 12 months. Additionally, studies using defined criteria for infection diagnosis reported higher rates compared to undefined criteria: pooled deep SSI rates were 2.91% (1.40; 4.92) vs. 0.62% (0.34; 0.96) for defined vs. undefined criteria respectively, and 3.18% (2.23; 4.29) vs. 1.7% (1.44; 1.99) for superficial SSI. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study demonstrate a substantial SSI risk and a high variability of the infection rates following hemiarthroplasty for hip fracture patients. A standardization of infection criteria and an extended follow-up period are advisable and should be considered in guidelines aimed at improving the standard of care for these patients.

Low implantation volume, comorbidities, male sex and implantation of constrained TKA identified as risk factors for septic revision in knee arthroplasty: A register-based study from the German Arthroplasty Registry.

PURPOSE: Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a major cause of revision surgery after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and unicondylar knee arthroplasty (UKA). Patient- and hospital-related risk factors need to be assessed to prevent PJI. This study identifies influential factors and differences in infection rates between different implant types. METHODS: Data were obtained from the German Arthroplasty Registry. Septic revisions were calculated using Kaplan-Meier estimates with septic revision surgery as the primary endpoint. Patients with constrained and unconstrained TKA or UKA were analysed using Holm's multiple log-rank test and Cox's proportional hazards ratio. The 300,998 cases of knee arthroplasty analysed included 254,144 (84.4%) unconstrained TKA, 9993 (3.3%) constrained TKA and 36,861 (12.3%) UKA with a maximum follow-up of 7 years. RESULTS: At 1 year, the PJI rate was 0.5% for UKA and 2.8% for TKA, whereas at 7 years, the PJI rate was 4.5% for UKA and 0.9% for TKA (p < 0.0001). The PJI rate significantly increased for constrained TKA compared to unconstrained TKA (p < 0.0001). The PJI rate was 2.0% for constrained TKA and 0.8% for unconstrained TKA at 1 year and 3.1% and 1.4% at 7 years. Implantation of a constrained TKA (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.55), male sex (HR = 1.84), increased Elixhauser score (HR = 1.18-1.56) and implant volume of less than 25 UKA per year (HR = 2.15) were identified as risk factors for revision surgery; an Elixhauser score of 0 (HR = 0.80) was found to be a preventive factor. CONCLUSIONS: Reduced implant volume and constrained knee arthroplasty are associated with a higher risk of PJI. Comorbidities (elevated Elixhauser score), male sex and low UKA implant volume have been identified as risk factors for PJI. Patients who meet these criteria require specific measures to prevent infection. Further research is required on the potential impact of prevention and risk factor modification. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Unicondylar knee arthroplasty demonstrating a significant increased risk for aseptic revisions compared to unconstrained and constrained total knee arthroplasty: An analysis of aseptic revisions after unicondylar and primary total knee arthroplasty of the German Arthroplasty Registry.

PURPOSE: Due to ageing population, the implantation rate of total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) is continuously growing. Aseptic revisions in primary knee arthroplasty are a major cause of revision. The aim of the following study was to determinate the incidence and reasons of aseptic revisions in constrained and unconstrained TKA, as well as in unicondylar knee arthroplasties (UKAs). METHODS: Data collection was performed using the German Arthroplasty Registry. Reasons for aseptic revisions were calculated. Incidence and comparison of aseptic revisions were analysed using Kaplan-Meier estimates. A multiple χ2 test with Holm's method was used to detect group differences in ligament ruptures. RESULTS: Overall, 300,998 cases of knee arthroplasty with 254,144 (84.4%) unconstrained TKA, 9993 (3.3%) constrained TKA and 36,861 (12.3%) UKA were analysed. Aseptic revision rate in UKA was significantly increased compared to unconstrained and constrained TKA (p < 0.0001). In constrained TKA, a 2.0% revision rate for aseptic reasons were reported after 1 year, while in unconstrained TKA 1.1% and in UKA, 2.7% of revisions were identified. After 7 years in constrained TKA 3.3%, in unconstrained TKA 2.8%, and in UKA 7.8% sustained aseptic revision. Ligament instability was the leading cause of aseptic revision accounting for 13.7% in unconstrained TKA. In constrained TKA, 2.8% resulted in a revision due to ligament instability. In the UKA, the most frequent cause of revisions was tibial loosening, accounting for 14.6% of cases, while progression of osteoarthritis accounted for 7.9% of revisions. Ligament instability was observed in 14.1% of males compared to 15.9% of females in unconstrained TKA and in 4.6% in both genders in UKA. CONCLUSION: In patients with UKA, aseptic revision rates are significantly higher compared to unconstrained and constrained TKA. Ligament instability was the leading cause of aseptic revision in unconstrained TKA. In UKA, the most frequent cause of revisions was tibial loosening, while progression of osteoarthritis was the second most frequent cause of revisions. Comparable levels of ligament instability were observed in both sexes. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, cohort study.

No effect of dislocation status at arrival in emergency department on outcome of knee joint dislocations.

PURPOSE: Knee dislocation is a rare but severe injury of the lower extremities. The aim of this study was to report on the epidemiology, diagnostics and treatment of such injuries and to identify negative predictors of clinical outcomes. METHODS: This retrospective analysis included all knee dislocations treated at a Level I Trauma Centre in Germany between 2009 and 2021. Medical records were categorised, collected and analysed in a standardised manner. A follow-up visit 1 year after the injury focused on limitations in knee mobility. RESULTS: A total of 120 knee dislocations were included in the study. 29.3% of patients presented to the emergency department with a dislocated joint, and 17.5% (n = 21) had a neurovascular lesion. At follow-up 12 months after the injury, 65.8% of the patients reported limitations in the range of motion, and 11.7% (n = 14) reported severe limitations in daily activities. Site infections due to surgery occurred in 3.3% of patients. Increased body weight (r = 0.294; p < 0.001 and r = 0.259; p = 0.004), an increased body mass index above 25 kg/m2 (body mass index, r = 0.296; p < 0.001 and r = 0.264; p = 0.004) and deficits in peripheral perfusion as well as sensory and motor function (r = 0.231; p = 0.040 and r = -0.192; p = 0.036) were found to be negative predictive factors for clinical outcome. For posttraumatic neurovascular injury, lack of peripheral perfusion, insufficient sensory and motor function (r = -0.683; p < 0.0001), as well as a higher Schenck grade (r = 0.320; p = 0.037), were identified as independent risk factors. The status of dislocation at the site of the accident and on arrival at the emergency department had no impact on the outcome or neurovascular injury. CONCLUSION: Knee dislocation is a rare injury with a high rate of severe complications such as neurovascular lesions. In particular, the initial status of neurovascular structures and injury classification showed a relevant negative correlation with the posttraumatic status of nerves and vessels. In particular, patients with these characteristics need close monitoring to prevent negative long-term consequences. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

[Treatment strategies for fracture-related infections with concurrent soft tissue damage]. / Therapiestrategien bei frakturassoziierten Infektionen mit begleitendem Weichteilschaden.

Fracture-related infections are the predominant complication following surgical fracture treatment. The distal lower leg, e.g., in pilon tibial fractures, is at a high risk of infection due to poor soft tissue coverage, particularly in cases of open fractures in this area. Fracture-related infections with significant soft tissue damage require special attention alongside treatment of the infection itself. In general, the principle is that healing of fracture-related infection is not possible without sufficient soft tissue coverage. Therefore, it is crucial to integrate both soft tissue damage and fracture-related infection into a comprehensive treatment plan from the beginning. An interdiscpilinary treatment approach between trauma and plastic surgery is often necessary and beneficial. In cases, where fracture fixation devices or bone is exposed, mid- or long-term use of vacuum-assisted wound therapy is not advisable due to a higher risk of reinfection. Hence, an interdisciplinary treatment strategy involving trauma and plastic surgery should prioritize early soft tissue closure, referred to as the "orthoplastic approach". If this cannot be done in the own hospital, early patient transfer is indicated to ensure optimal interdisciplinary therapy with early soft tissue closure and simultaneous trauma surgical treatment to control the infection and enable bone healing. Free fasciocutaneous or muscle flap techniques in combination with adequate trauma surgical and antibiotic therapy lead to good reliable results in these situations.

Direct Hospital Costs per Case of Periprosthetic Hip and Knee Joint Infections in Europe - A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: The rise of periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) due to aging populations is steadily increasing the number of arthroplasties and treatment costs. This study analyzed the direct health care costs of PJI for total hip arthroplasty and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in Europe. METHODS: The databases PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane, and Google Scholar were systematically screened for direct costs of PJI in Europe. Publications that defined the joint site and the procedure performed were further analyzed. Mean direct health care costs were calculated for debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR), one-stage, and 2-stage revisions for hip and knee PJI, respectively. Costs were adjusted for inflation rates and reported in US-Dollar (USD). RESULTS: Of 1,374 eligible publications, 12 manuscripts were included in the final analysis after an abstract and full-text review. Mean direct costs of $32,933 were identified for all types of revision procedures for knee PJI. The mean direct treatment cost including DAIR for TKA after PJI was $19,476. For 2-stage revisions of TKA, the mean total cost was $37,980. For all types of hip PJI procedures, mean direct hospital costs were $28,904. For hip DAIR, one-stage and 2-stage treatment average costs of $7,120, $44,594, and $42,166 were identified, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Periprosthetic joint infections are associated with substantial direct health care costs. As detailed reports on the cost of PJI are scarce and of limited quality, more detailed financial data on the cost of PJI treatment are urgently required.

Fracture-Related Infection-Epidemiology, Etiology, Diagnosis, Prevention, and Treatment.

BACKGROUND: Fracture-related infection (FRI) is a challenge to physicians and other workers in health care. In 2018, there were 7253 listed cases of FRI in Germany, corresponding to an incidence of 10.7 cases per 100 000 persons per year. METHODS: This review is based on pertinent publications retrieved from a search in PubMed with the search terms "fracture," "infection," "guideline," and "consensus." Aside from the primary literature, international guidelines and consensus recommendations were evaluated as well. RESULTS: FRI arise mainly from bacterial contamination of the fracture site. Staphylococcus aureus is the most commonly detected pathogen. The treatment is based on surgery and antibiotics and should be agreed upon by an interdisciplinary team; it is often difficult because of biofilm formation. Treatment options include implant-preserving procedures and single-stage, two-stage, or multi-stage implant replacement. Treatment failure occurs in 10.3% to 21.4% of cases. The available evidence on the efficacy of various treatment approaches is derived mainly from retrospective cohort studies (level III evidence). Therefore, periprosthetic joint infections and FRI are often discussed together. CONCLUSION: FRI presents an increasing challenge. Preventive measures should be optimized, and the treatment should always be decided upon by an interdisciplinary team. Only low-level evidence is available to date to guide diagnostic and treatment decisions. High-quality studies are therefore needed to help us meet this challenge more effectively.

Fracture related Infection - Challenges in definition and diagnosis.

In the field of orthopedics and trauma surgery, the rise of periprosthetic joint infections following joint replacement and fracture-related infections (FRI) has become a growing concern. The recent establishment of a definitive definition for FRI aimed to standardize diagnosis and treatment approaches while considering unique aspects of implant-associated infections in the presence of concomitant bone fractures. Diagnosing FRI can be challenging due to the varied clinical symptoms, and confirmatory criteria may not always be evident, necessitating additional diagnostic measures. Blood markers like leukocyte count, C-reactive protein (CRP), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) have limited specificity. Although novel biomarkers such as D-dimer and interleukin-6 (IL-6) show potential, they require further investigation. The use of microbiological diagnostics with tissue samples and sonication has improved pathogen detection. Cross-sectional imaging techniques like CT scans and MRI scans help evaluate bone status, soft tissue infiltration, and abscesses. Nuclear medicine techniques are accurate but may not always be practical in routine clinical practice. Histopathological interpretation for FRI remains less standardized compared to periprosthetic joint infections (PJI). FRI diagnosis requires the identification of visible microorganisms in deep tissue specimens and the quantification of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs). The defined concept of FRI has opened doors for better diagnostic and treatment approaches. However, challenges persist, especially in preoperative diagnosis, particularly for cases with unclear clinical presentations. Future endeavors aimed at optimizing diagnostic procedures and establishing a histopathological classification for FRI could lead to improved treatment recommendations and outcomes.

Healing beyond the joint: Addressing mental health in periprosthetic joint infection in a prospective longitudinal study.

OBJECTIVE: Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a devastating complication following joint replacement surgeries. While the somatic impacts of PJI have been extensively explored, the influence on mental health remains understudied. This study aimed to longitudinally assess the psychological burden, quality of life, and expectations in individuals undergoing treatment for PJI. METHODS: A prospective study was conducted at a German trauma center between January 2020 and December 2022. Patients diagnosed with PJI (n = 29, mean age 71.4 ± 8.8 years) were assessed at five timepoints, within one week before revision surgery, one month, three, six, and twelve months postoperatively. Outcomes included the ICD-10 symptom-rating (ISR), German Short-Form 36 (SF-36), European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions (EQ-5D), and an expectation questionnaire. RESULTS: Psychological scores exhibited significant upward trends over time. The ISR score increased from 0.55 preoperatively to 0.87 at the 12-month follow-up (p = 0.002), surpassing the clinically relevant threshold. Depression and anxiety scores peaked at 6 months (1.6, p = 0.005) and 12 months (1.12, p = 0.001), respectively. Quality of life, measured by SF-36, showed stable physical component summary scores but declining mental component summary scores. Patients' expectations of returning to normal health consistently decreased (p = 0.009). CONCLUSION: Patients undergoing treatment for PJI experience significant psychological burden, with implications for quality of life and expectations of recovery. The findings underscore the importance of addressing psychological well-being in the management of PJI and emphasize the need for comprehensive care strategies that encompass both somatic and psychological dimensions.

Treatment of Fracture-Related Infection after Pelvic Fracture.

BACKGROUND: The management of pelvic fractures is a significant challenge. Surgical site infection can result in the need for revision surgery, cause functional impairment, and lead to a prolonged length of stay and increased treatment costs. Although reports on fracture-related infection (FRI) after pelvic fracture fixation are sparsely reported in the literature, it is a serious complication. This study analysed patients with FRIs after pelvic fracture regarding patient characteristics, treatment strategies, and an evaluation of risk factors for FRI. METHODS: In this retrospective single-centre study, FRI was diagnosed based on clinical symptoms of infection and a positive culture of a bacterial infection. Depending on the severity and acuteness of the infection, osseous stabilization was restored either via implant retention (stable implant, no osteolysis), exchange (loose implant or bony defect), or external fixation (recurrence of infection after prior implant retaining revision). Healing of infection was defined as no sign of recurring infection upon clinical, radiological, and laboratory examination in the last follow-up visit. RESULTS: The FRI rate in our patient population was 7.5% (24/316). In 8/24 patients, the FRI occurred within the first three weeks after initial surgery (early) and 16/24 presented with a late onset of symptoms of FRI. A strategy of debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR) was successful in 9/24 patients with FRI after pelvic fracture. A total of 10 patients required an exchange of osteo-synthetic implants, whereof three were exchanged to an external fixator. In five patients, we removed the implant because the fracture had already consolidated at the time of revision for infection. A total of 17/24 patients had a poly-microbial infection after a pelvic fracture and 3/24 patients died from post-traumatic multi-organ failure within the first 6 months after trauma. There were no cases of persistent infection within the remaining 21 patients. CONCLUSIONS: Although poly-microbial infection is common in FRI after pelvic fracture, the recurrence rate of infection is relatively low. A complex pelvic trauma with significant soft tissue injury is a risk factor for recurrent infection and multiple revisions. A strategy of DAIR can be successful in patients with a stable implant. In cases with recurrent infection or an unstable fracture site, the exchange of implants should be considered.

The antibiotic bead pouch - a useful technique for temporary soft tissue coverage, infection prevention and therapy in trauma surgery.

Soft tissue defects resulting from trauma and musculoskeletal infections can complicate surgical treatment. Appropriate temporary coverage of these defects is essential to achieve the best outcomes for necessary plastic soft tissue defect reconstruction. The antibiotic bead pouch technique is a reasonable surgical approach for managing temporary soft tissue defects following adequate surgical debridement. This technique involves the use of small diameter antibiotic-loaded bone cement beads to fill the dead space created by debridement. By applying antibiotics to the bone cement and covering the beads with an artificial skin graft, high local dosages of antibiotics can be achieved, resulting in the creation of a sterile wound that offers the best starting position for soft tissue and bone defect reconstruction. This narrative review describes the rationale for using this technique, including its advantages and disadvantages, as well as pearls and pitfalls associated with its use in daily practice. In addition, the article provides a comprehensive overview of the literature that has been published since the technique was introduced in surgical practice.

Novel diagnostic markers for periprosthetic joint infection: a systematic review.

Background: Identifying novel biomarkers that are both specific and sensitive to periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) has the potential to improve diagnostic accuracy and ultimately enhance patient outcomes. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review is to identify and evaluate the effectiveness of novel biomarkers for the diagnosis of PJI. Methods: We searched the MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, and Cochrane Library databases from January 1, 2018, to September 30, 2022, using the search terms "periprosthetic joint infection," "prosthetic joint infection," or "periprosthetic infection" as the diagnosis of interest and the target index, combined with the term "marker." We excluded articles that mentioned established biomarkers such as CRP, ESR, Interleukin 6, Alpha defensin, PCT (procalcitonin), and LC (leucocyte cell count). We used the MSIS, ICM, or EBJS criteria for PJI as the reference standard during quality assessment. Results: We collected 19 studies that analyzed fourteen different novel biomarkers. Proteins were the most commonly analyzed biomarkers (nine studies), followed by molecules (three studies), exosomes (two studies), DNA (two studies), interleukins (one study), and lysosomes (one study). Calprotectin was a frequently analyzed and promising marker. In the scenario where the threshold was set at ≥50-mg/mL, the calprotectin point-of-care (POC) performance showed a high sensitivity of 98.1% and a specificity of 95.7%. Conclusion: None of the analyzed biomarkers demonstrated outstanding performance compared to the established parameters used for standardized treatment based on established PJI definitions. Further studies are needed to determine the benefit and usefulness of implementing new biomarkers in diagnostic PJI settings.

[Aseptic revisions and pulmonary embolism after surgical treatment of femoral neck fractures with cemented and cementless hemiarthroplasty in Germany : An analysis from the Germany Arthroplasty Registry (EPRD)]. / Aseptische Revisionen und Lungenembolien nach operativer Behandlung von Schenkelhalsfrakturen mittels zementierten und zementfreien Hemiprothesen in Deutschland : Eine Analyse aus dem Endoprothesenregister Deutschland (EPRD).

BACKGROUND: Femoral neck fractures (FNF) are among the most common fractures in Germany and are often treated by hemiarthroplasty (HA). The aim of this study was to compare the occurrence of aseptic revisions after cemented and uncemented HA for the treatment of FNF. Secondly, the rate of pulmonary embolism was investigated. METHODS: Data collection for this study was performed using the German Arthroplasty Registry (EPRD). HAs after FNF were divided into subgroups stratified by stem fixation (cemented vs uncemented) and paired according to age, sex, BMI, and the Elixhauser score using Mahalanobis distance matching. RESULTS: Examination of 18,180 matched cases showed a significantly increased rate of aseptic revisions in uncemented HA (p < 0.0001). After 1 month 2.5% of HAs with uncemented stems required an aseptic revision, whereas 1.5% were reported in cemented HA. After 1 and 3 years' follow-up 3.9% and 4.5% of uncemented HA and 2.2% and 2.5% of cemented HA needed aseptic revision surgery. In particular, the proportion of periprosthetic fractures was increased in cementless implanted HA (p < 0.0001). During in-patient stays, pulmonary emboli occurred more frequently after cemented HA (0.81% vs 0.53% in cementless HA [OR: 1.53; p = 0.057]). CONCLUSION: For uncemented hemiarthroplasties a statistically significantly increased rate of aseptic revisions and periprosthetic fractures was evident within a time period of 5 years after implantation. During the in-hospital stay, patients with cemented HA experienced an increased rate of pulmonary embolism compared with patients with cementless HA, but this difference was not statistically significant. Based on the present results, with knowledge of prevention measures and the correct cementation technique, the use of cemented HA should be preferred in the treatment of femoral neck fractures.

The patients' perspective - a qualitative analysis of experiencing a fracture-related infection.

Introduction: Fracture-related infection is a devastating complication confronting the patient with several challenges. To improve the management and to enhance the patients' wellbeing the focus of this study was to understand the emotional impact and patients' experiences during the process to identify challenges, difficulties, and resources. For this, a qualitative content analysis of semi-structured interviews according to Graneheim and Lundman was performed. Methods: In total n = 20 patients of a German university orthopedic trauma centre specialized in bone and joint infections were recruited using a purposive sampling strategy. The patients were treated at the hospital between 2019 and 2021 and underwent at least one surgery. Individual in-person interviews were performed by one researcher based on a semi-structured guide, which was previously conceptualized. Content analysis according to Graneheim and Lundman was performed on the transcripts by two of the researchers independently. Results: The following major themes emerged: (i) the emotional and mental aspects highlighting the fact that FRI patients faced severe restrictions in their day-to-day life, which resulted in dependency on others and frustration, as well as future concerns showing that patients could not overcome a state of anxiety and fear even after successful treatment, (ii) socioeconomic consequences confronting patients with consequences on the job and in finances where they often feel helpless, and (iii) resources emphasizing the role of spirituality as a coping strategy and yoga exercises for keeping the positivity. Conclusion: This study emphasized the challenge of fracture-related infection management and associated consequences from the patients' perspective. Not being well informed about possible negative outcomes or restrictions makes it harder for patients to accept the situation and patients expressed a need for better information and certainty. Also, patients developed constant anxiety and other psychological disturbances, highlighting the potential benefit of psychological support and patient-peer support to exchange experiences.

Factors associated with mortality after proximal femoral fracture.

Proximal femoral fractures are a serious complication, especially for elderly patients. Therefore, we have aimed to answer the following research question: What is the postfracture mortality rate in the elderly population and what are associated risk factors? For this, proximal femoral fractures that occurred between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2019 were identified from the Medicare Physician Service Records database. The Kaplan-Meier (KM) method with the Fine and Gray subdistribution adaptation was used to determine rates of mortality. A semiparametric Cox regression model was applied, incorporating 23 measures as covariates to identify risk factors. The estimated 1 year mortality rate was 26.8% after head/neck fracture, 28.2% after intertrochanteric fracture, and 24.2% after subtrochanteric fracture. Male sex, age over 70 years, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cerebrovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, a concomitant fracture, congestive heart failure, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, insulin use, ischemic heart disease, morbid obesity, osteoporosis, tobacco dependence, and median household income were determined as risk factors for increased mortality. An early assessment of individual risk factors accessible for therapeutic treatment is crucial in the management of proximal femur fractures to aid in attempts at reducing the high mortality apparent in the elderly US population.

Comparison of mortality rate and septic and aseptic revisions in total hip arthroplasties for osteoarthritis and femoral neck fracture: an analysis of the German Arthroplasty Registry.

BACKGROUND: Indications for total hip arthroplasties (THA) differ from primary osteoarthritis (OA), which allows elective surgery through femoral neck fractures (FNF), which require timely surgical care. The aim of this investigation was to compare mortality and revisions in THA for primary OA and FNF. METHODS: Data collection for this study was performed using the German Arthroplasty Registry (EPRD) with analysis THA for the treatment of FNF and OA. Cases were matched 1:1 according to age, sex, body mass index (BMI), cementation, and the Elixhauser score using Mahalanobis distance matching. RESULTS: Overall 43,436 cases of THA for the treatment of OA and FNF were analyzed in this study. Mortality was significantly increased in FNF, with 12.6% after 1 year and 36.5% after 5 years compared with 3.0% and 18.7% in OA, respectively (p < 0.0001). The proportion for septic and aseptic revisions was significantly increased in FNF (p < 0.0001). Main causes for an aseptic failure were mechanical complications (OA: 1.1%; FNF: 2.4%; p < 0.0001) and periprosthetic fractures (OA: 0.2%; FNF: 0.4%; p = 0.021). As influencing factors for male patients with septic failure (p < 0.002), increased BMI and Elixhauser comorbidity score and diagnosis of fracture (all p < 0.0001) were identified. For aseptic revision surgeries, BMI, Elixhauser score, and FNF were influencing factors (p < 0.0001), while all cemented and hybrid cemented THA were associated with a risk reduction for aseptic failure within 90 days after surgery (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: In femoral neck fractures treated with THA, a significant higher mortality, as well as septic and aseptic failure rate, was demonstrated compared with prosthesis for the therapy of osteoarthritis. Increased Elixhauser comorbidity score and BMI are the main influencing factors for development of septic or aseptic failure and can represent a potential approach for prevention measures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, Prognostic.