Association between operative duration and adverse outcomes after hip fracture surgery: A NSQIP matched cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Prolonged operative duration is an independent risk factor for surgical complications in numerous subspecialties. However, associations between adverse events and operative duration of hip fracture fixation in older adults have not been well-quantified. This study aims to determine if prolonged operative duration of hip fracture surgery is related to adverse outcomes. We hypothesized that patients with high operative durations experience greater rates of 30-day complications. METHODS: The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was retrospectively reviewed to identify older adults (55 years and above) who underwent hip fracture fixation between 2015-2019. Prolonged operative duration was defined as >75th percentile, and cases were matched using propensity scores based on demographic, surgical, and comorbidity factors. Univariate differences in adverse events (including readmission, reoperation, mortality, and organ-system complications) were analyzed. Multivariable mixed-effects logistic regression analyses were completed for statistically significant events. RESULTS: A total of 8827 case-control pairs were identified for comparison. Rates of superficial surgical site infection (SSI) (p= 0.022), any SSI (p= 0.032), and any complication (p < 0.001) were elevated in those with prolonged surgical duration in univariate analyses. In multivariable models, prolonged operative time was associated with superficial SSI (OR 1.50, p= 0.019), any SSI (OR 1.35; p= 0.029) and any complication (OR 1.58; p < 0.001). In subgroup analyses, all findings persisted for IMN with operative time associated with superficial SSI (OR 1.98, p= 0.012), any SSI (OR 1.71; p= 0.019), and any complication (OR 1.84; p < 0.001). Operative time was associated only with any complication for hemiarthroplasty/internal fixation and sliding hip screw (OR 1.27 and 1.89, respectively; p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrates that duration of surgery is an independent risk factor for superficial SSI, any SSI, and any complication. Notably, our findings suggest that high operative durations may be most concerning for SSIs in IMN fixation, which is currently the most common choice for hip fracture fixation in the US. However, the rate of any complication is significantly elevated when surgical duration is prolonged, regardless of surgery type.

Prospective Analysis of Simulated Pneumatic Tourniquet Use and Oedema Following Axillary Lymph Node Dissection.

Background: Tourniquet use during upper extremity surgery in patients with a history of axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) remains controversial due to the perceived but unproven risk of lymphoedema. We prospectively evaluated upper extremity swelling in patients with a history of unilateral ALND using a standardised tourniquet model. Methods: A tourniquet was applied to the upper arm bilaterally, with the unaffected side serving as an internal control. Each arm was subsequently held in an elevated position to reduce swelling. Hand volume was measured using an aqueous volumeter. Results: The patients' ALND arms experienced slightly greater increases in volume following tourniquet application compared to their healthy control arms. However, this amount of oedema was temporary and reversible, as both arms experienced spontaneous resolution of swelling with no significant difference in residual hand volume at the conclusion of the study. Conclusions: Tourniquet use may be safe in patients with a history of ALND. Further investigation is needed to verify this in a surgical setting. Level of Evidence: Level II (Therapeutic).

No Delay in Age of Crawling, Standing or Walking with Pavlik Harness Treatment: A Prospective Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: Pavlik harness treatment is the standard of care for developmental dysplasia of the hip in infants younger than 6 months. The effect of Pavlik harness treatment on the achievement of motor milestones has not previously been reported. METHODS: In this prospective cohort study, 35 patients were prospectively enrolled to participate and received questionnaires with sequential clinical visits monitoring treatment of their developmental dysplasia of the hip. One-sample Student t -tests assessed differences in milestone attainment age, and the Benjamini-Hochberg procedure was conducted to decrease the false discovery rate. Post hoc power analyses of each test were conducted. The age of achievement of eight early motor milestones were recorded and compared with a previously published cohort of healthy infants. RESULTS: Infants treated with a Pavlik harness achieved four early motor milestones markedly later than the reported age of achievement in a historical control group. These milestones included "roll supine" (5.3 vs. 4.5 months; P = 0.039), "roll prone" (5.7 vs. 5.0 months; P = 0.039), "sit" (6.4 vs. 5.2 months; P < 0.001), and "crawl on stomach" (7.7 vs. 6.6 months; P = 0.039). However, there was no difference in time to achievement of later motor milestones of "crawl on knees," "pull to stand," and "independent walking." CONCLUSION: Several early motor milestones were achieved at a statistically significantly later time than historical control subjects not treated in a Pavlik harness. Despite statistical significance, the small delays in early motor milestones were not thought to be clinically significant. No differences were observed in the later motor milestones, including knee crawling, standing, and independent walking. Clinicians and parents may be reassured by these findings. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level II-prospective study.

Can Caregivers Forecast Their Child's Postoperative Disability After Elective Orthopedic Surgery?

Background While there has been a growing emphasis on evaluating the patient's perspective of health outcomes, caregiver expectations of post-orthopedic procedure disability and pain in a pediatric population are yet to be investigated. This study evaluates whether caregivers' preoperative expectations of pain and function differ from their child's early outcomes after surgical orthopedic intervention. Methodology Patients eight to 18 years old undergoing elective orthopedic surgery were enrolled. The caregivers of consented patients completed a survey at the child's preoperative appointment to predict their postoperative pain and disability. The child was given the same survey during their postoperative visit four to six weeks after surgery to assess actual levels of functioning following the procedure. Scores were analyzed to study correlations between patient and caregiver responses (n = 48). Results Caregivers underestimated their child's postoperative psychosocial functioning, as evidenced by the Psychosocial Health Summary Score, and overestimated pain, as demonstrated by the Numeric Pain Rating Scale. The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory scores showed caregivers had differing expectations of the impact surgery had across various aspects of the physical, emotional, social, and school functioning domains. Higher parental pain catastrophizing was associated with underestimated predictions of their child's psychosocial functioning after surgery. No significant difference was found in the patient's physical functioning, as shown by the Physical Health Summary Score. Conclusions Surgical intervention is a major event that can provoke anxiety for parents and caregivers. Understanding differences in caregiver perspectives and early postoperative patient outcomes provides physicians valuable insights. Explaining to caregivers that patient psychosocial factors and functional outcomes after surgery are commonly better than expected can alleviate anxiety and prevent catastrophizing. This knowledge can help guide caregiver expectations and plans for their child's postoperative pain control and functional recovery.

Endoscopic iliopsoas lengthening for treatment of recalcitrant iliopsoas tendinitis after total hip arthroplasty.

Iliopsoas (IP) tendinitis from impingement upon the acetabular component after total hip arthroplasty (THA) has been treated with open and endoscopic IP tenotomy or acetabular component revision. This study describes the results of a consecutive series of patients treated with endoscopic IP tenotomy as a less invasive alternative. Twenty-eight patients with IP impingement after THA underwent endoscopic IP lengthening from 2012 to 2021 at a single-center academic institution. The follow-up of 24 of these patients was achieved with a mean follow-up of 7.6 months (range 1-28). Outcomes included the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), visual analog pain scale (VAS), satisfaction, component positioning and complications. Seventy-one percent of patients were satisfied or very satisfied after their operation. The median mHHS preoperatively was 57 (Interquartile range [IQR] 43-60) and postoperatively was 75 (IQR 66-92, P < 0.001). Clinically meaningful improvements in mHHS were seen in patients with VAS pain scores <5, cup prominence >8 mm, body mass index >30, and less than 2 years from their index THA. Two patients developed a deep infection 7 and 10 months postoperatively (neither related to the release), and one patient underwent open psoas release for persistent impingement. Endoscopic IP tenotomy is a safe and effective treatment for impingement after THA. Patients with cup prominence >8 mm, body mass index >30 and less than 2 years since their index THA may have more clinically meaningful improvements in pain and function.

Tarsal Navicular Bone Stress Injuries: A Multicenter Case Series Investigating Clinical Presentation, Diagnostic Approach, Treatment, and Return to Sport in Adolescent Athletes.

BACKGROUND: Tarsal navicular bone stress injuries (BSIs) are considered "high risk" because of prolonged healing times and higher rates of nonunion in adult populations but, to our knowledge, have not been comprehensively examined in adolescent athletes. PURPOSE: To describe the characteristics of tarsal navicular BSIs in adolescents. STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of patients aged 10 to 19 years with a radiographically diagnosed tarsal navicular BSI was performed at 8 academic centers over a 9-year study period. Age, sex, body mass index (BMI), primary sport, physical examination findings, imaging, treatment, surgical technique, return-to-sport time, and complications were analyzed. RESULTS: Among 110 patients (mean age, 14.7 ± 2.7 years; 65% female), common primary sports were cross-country/track and field (29/92 [32%]) and gymnastics/dance (25/92 [27%]). Grade 4 BSIs were identified in 44% (48/110) of patients, with fracture lines present on radiography or magnetic resonance imaging. Nonoperative treatment (mean age, 14.4 ± 2.6 years), consisting of protected weightbearing and either a protective boot (69/88 [78%]) or a cast (19/88 [22%]), was trialed in all patients and was successful in 94 patients (85%). Operative treatment (mean age, 17.1 ± 1.4 years) was ultimately pursued for 16 patients (15%). Patients who required surgery had a higher BMI and a higher percentage of fracture lines present on imaging (nonoperative: 36/94 [38%]; operative: 14/16 [88%]). The median time to return to weightbearing, running, and full sport was significantly longer in duration for the operative group than the nonoperative group (P <.05). Complications associated with surgery included 1 case each of delayed union, nonunion, and painful implants, the latter of which required secondary surgery. CONCLUSION: Adolescent tarsal navicular BSIs were identified most commonly in female patients in leanness sports. Adolescents who required surgery were more likely to be older, have higher BMIs, and have grade 4 BSIs, and they returned to sport within a median of 5 months after single- or double-screw fixation with a low risk of postoperative complications. A better understanding of the presenting signs and symptoms and appropriate diagnostic imaging of navicular BSIs may lead to an earlier diagnosis and improved outcomes.

Gadolinium injected concurrently with anesthetic can result in false-negative diagnostic intra-articular hip injections.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this paper was to evaluate the response to intra-articular hip injections with and without concurrent gadolinium administration. Our secondary outcome was to compare post-operative outcomes between patients with an initial false-negative gadolinium-containing injection and a matched control group. METHODS: Patients receiving a series of two hip diagnostic intra-articular injections (DIAI), the first with gadolinium for concurrent MRA and the second without gadolinium, were retrospectively identified. Pain response to DIAI, injectate volume, local anesthetic volume, inclusion of corticosteroids, and method of injection were compared between injections. False-negative injection was defined as < 50% pain relief with concurrent gadolinium, but ≥ 50% pain relief with subsequent anesthetic injection without gadolinium. False-negative injections in patients that ultimately underwent primary hip arthroscopy were identified from this cohort and matched in a 3:1 ratio to a control cohort to compare short-term post-operative single assessment numerical evaluation (SANE) outcomes. RESULTS: Forty-three patients underwent a series of anesthetic injections with and without gadolinium and met inclusion and exclusion criteria. Pain response was significantly different in injections performed with and without gadolinium (18% vs. 81%; p < 0.001). There were significant differences in total injectate volume, local anesthetic volume, corticosteroid use, and method of injection between injections, but these variables were not correlated with pain response. Fifteen patients with false-negative responses to injection underwent primary hip arthroscopy and were matched in a 3:1 ratio to a control cohort. There was no difference in short-term post-operative SANE scores between the gadolinium-sensitive and control groups (81.6 vs. 80.0, n.s.). CONCLUSION: Concurrent administration of intra-articular gadolinium with DIAI may result in a false-negative response to anesthetic. Additionally, in patients with initial false-negative DIAI with gadolinium, short-term post-operative outcomes after hip arthroscopy are similar to a matched cohort. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Distal Metaphyseal Ulnar Shortening Osteotomy Fixation: A Biomechanical Analysis.

PURPOSE: Ulnar shortening osteotomy can be used to treat ulnar impaction syndrome and other causes of ulnar wrist pain. Distal metaphyseal ulnar shortening osteotomy (DMUSO) is one technique that has been proposed to reduce the complications seen with a diaphyseal USO or a wafer resection. However, to our knowledge, the optimal fixation construct for DMUSO has not been studied. We sought to characterize the biomechanical stiffness and rotational stability of different DMUSO constructs. METHODS: A DMUSO was performed on 40 human cadaveric ulnas using 4 different fixation constructs (10 specimens per group): one 3.0 mm antegrade screw; two 2.2 mm antegrade screws; one 3.0 mm retrograde screw; and two 2.2 mm retrograde screws. Biaxial testing using axial load and cyclical axial torque was performed until failure, defined as 10° of rotation or 2 mm displacement. Specimens were assessed for stiffness at failure. Bone density was assessed using the second metacarpal cortical percentage. RESULTS: Bone density was similar between all 4 testing groups. Of the 4 groups, the 2 antegrade screw group exhibited the highest rotational stiffness of 232 ± 102 Nm/deg. In paired analysis, this was significantly greater than 1 retrograde screw constructs. In multivariable analysis, 2-screw constructs were significantly stiffer than 1 screw and antegrade constructs were significantly stiffer than retrograde. Maximum failure torque did not differ with orientation, but 2 screws failed at significantly higher torques. CONCLUSION: Using 2 screws for DMUSO fixation constructs may provide higher stiffness and maximum failure torque, and antegrade screw constructs may provide more stiffness than retrograde constructs. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Antegrade screw fixation using 2 screws may provide the strongest construct for DMUSO. Antegrade fixation may be preferred because it avoids violating the distal radioulnar joint capsule and articular surface of the ulna.

Isolated Versus Full Component Revision in Total Knee Arthroplasty for Aseptic Loosening.

BACKGROUND: Revision of both femoral and tibial components of a total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for aseptic loosening has favorable outcomes. Revision of only one loose component with retention of others has shorter operative time and lower cost; however, implant survivorship and clinical outcomes of these different operations are unclear. METHODS: Between January 2009 and December 2019, a consecutive cohort of revision TKA was reviewed. Univariate and multivariable analyses were used to study correlations among factors and surgical related complications, time to prosthesis failure, and functional outcomes (University of California Los Angeles, Knee Society functional, knee osteoarthritis and outcome score for joint replacement, Veterans RAND 12 (VR-12) physical, and VR-12 mental). RESULTS: A total of 238 patients underwent revision TKA for aseptic loosening. The mean follow-up time was 61 months (range 25 to 152). Ten of the 105 patients (9.5%) who underwent full revision (both femoral and tibial components) and 18 of the 133 (13.5%) who underwent isolated revision had subsequent prosthesis failure [Hazard ratio (HR) 0.67, P = .343]. The factor analysis of type of revision (full or isolated revision) did not demonstrate a significant difference between groups in terms of complications, implant failures, and times to failure. Metallosis was related to early time to failure [Hazard ratio 10.11, P < .001] and iliotibial band release was associated with more complications (Odds ratio 9.87, P = .027). Preoperative symptoms of instability were associated with the worst improvement in University of California Los Angeles score. Higher American Society of Anesthesiologists status and higher Charlson Comorbidity Index were related with worse VR-12 physical (-30.5, P = .008) and knee osteoarthritis and outcome score for joint replacement (-4.2, P = .050) scores, respectively. CONCLUSION: Isolated and full component revision TKA for aseptic loosening does not differ with respect to prosthesis failures, complications, and clinical results at 5 years. Poor American Society of Anesthesiologists status, increased comorbidities, instability, and a severe bone defect are related to worse functional improvement. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III, cohort with control.

Effectiveness of melatonin treatment for sleep disturbance in orthopaedic trauma patients: A prospective, randomized control trial.

OBJECTIVES: Explore sleep disturbance in postoperative orthopedic trauma patients and determine the impact of melatonin supplementation on postoperative sleep, pain, and quality of life. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this prospective, randomized controlled trial at a Level I trauma center, 84 adult orthopedic trauma patients with operative fracture management were randomized 2-weeks postoperatively to either the melatonin or placebo group. Patients randomized to the melatonin group (42 subjects, mean age 41.8 ± 15.5 years) received 5 mg melatonin supplements. Patients in the placebo group (42 subjects, mean age 41.3 ± 14.0 years) received identical glucose tablets. Both groups were instructed to take the tablets 30 minutes before bed for 4 weeks and received sleep hygiene education and access to the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) Coach app. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Our primary outcome was sleep quality as measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Secondary outcomes were pain measured by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), quality of life measured by the 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36), and opioid use. RESULTS: Patients in both groups had significant sleep disturbance (PSQI ≥ 5) at 2-weeks (83%) and 6-weeks (67%) postoperatively. PSQI improved by 3.3 points (p<0.001) at follow-up, but there was no significant difference between groups (melatonin PSQI = 5.6, placebo PSQI = 6.1, P = 0.615). Compared to placebo, melatonin did not affect VAS, SF-36, or opioid use significantly. CONCLUSION: Sleep disturbance is prevalent in orthopedic trauma patients. Melatonin treatment did not significantly improve subjective sleep quality, pain, quality of life or opioid use. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level I.

Anatomic relationship of extensor indicis propius and extensor digitorum communis: Implications for tendon transfer.

BACKGROUND: The extensor indicis proprius (EIP) tendon is a frequently used donor for a variety of tendon transfers, most commonly for reconstruction of the extensor pollicis longus (EPL). EIP is known to have frequent anatomic variants including split tendons and variations in tendon arrangement. AIM: To characterize the anatomy of the EIP at the level of the extensor retinaculum, where tendon harvest is often performed, and share our preferred technique for EIP to EPL transfer. METHODS: Twenty-nine fresh-frozen cadaveric forearms without history of forearm or hand injury or surgery were dissected. Tendon circumference and relationship of the EIP and extensor digitorum communis to the index (EDCI) at the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint and the distal extensor retinaculum were recorded. Distance from the distal extensor retinaculum to the EIP myotendinous junction was measured. RESULTS: EIP was ulnar to the EDCI in 96.5% of specimens (28/29) at the distal edge of the extensor retinaculum. In the remaining specimen, EIP was volar to EDCI. Tendon circumference at the distal extensor retinaculum averaged (9.3 mm ± 1.7 mm) for EDCI and 11.1 mm (± 2.7 mm) for EIP (P = 0.0010). The tendon circumference at the index MCP joint averaged 11.0 mm (± 1.7 mm) for EDCI and 10.6 mm (± 2.1 mm) for EIP (P = 0.33). EIP had a greater circumference in 76% (22/29) of specimens at the distal extensor retinaculum whereas EIP had a greater circumference in only 31% (9/29) of specimens at the MCP joint. CONCLUSION: The EIP tendon is frequently ulnar to and greater in circumference than the EDCI at the distal extensor retinaculum, which can be taken into consideration for tendon transfers involving EIP.

Knowledge and Practices Related to Hip-Healthy Swaddling for Newborns Among Maternity Nurses.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the self-reported knowledge, education, and practices related to hip-healthy swaddling of newborns among nurses, how they teach this technique to parents, and the relationships among these factors. DESIGN: Descriptive cross-sectional exploratory survey. SETTING: Academic women and children's hospital with an average of 4,500 annual births. PARTICIPANTS: One hundred four registered maternity nurses who work primarily in the maternity unit. METHODS: At three staff meetings, we surveyed maternity nurses to determine their knowledge, education, and practices related to hip-healthy swaddling and how they teach this technique to parents. We analyzed results using descriptive statistics and chi-square and Fisher's exact tests. RESULTS: Of the 156 nurses in the maternity unit, 104 attended three staff meetings and completed the survey. Among the participants, 18.9% (18/95; 9 participants did not respond) were unable to identify the correct hip swaddling position. Overall, 64.2% (61/95; 9 participants did not respond) reported that they received education on general swaddling technique, yet 14.8% (9/61) of these participants were unable to identify the correct hip-healthy swaddling position. Among the participants, 99.0% (103/104) reported that nurses teach parents how to swaddle infants rather than other health care providers; 12.5% (13/104) of participants responded that medical doctors provide training as well. Overall, 67.0% (69/103; 1 participant did not respond) reported that they taught parents in >75% of parent interactions. CONCLUSION: Our results illustrate a gap in knowledge about hip-healthy swaddling among the maternity nurses who participated in this survey and a need for further education.

Innovative technique for early-onset scoliosis casting using Jackson table.

PURPOSE: Early-onset scoliosis (EOS) can have harmful effects on pulmonary function. Serial elongation, derotation, and flexion (EDF) casting can cure EOS or delay surgical intervention. Most described casting techniques call for specialized tables, which are not available at many institutions. We describe an innovative technique for EDF casting utilizing a modified Jackson table (MJ) and compare results to a Risser frame (RF). METHODS: All patients who underwent EDF casting at our institution between January 2015 and January 2019 were identified and retrospectively reviewed. Patients were stratified by type of table used and clinical and radiographic outcomes were compared. Standard descriptive statistics were calculated. RESULTS: We identified 25 patients who underwent 77 casting events, 11 on an MJ table and 14 on a RF. Mean follow-up was 32 months (range 11-61 months). 28% of patients had idiopathic scoliosis. There was no significant difference in age at initiation of casting (P = 0.3), initial Cobb angle (equivalence, P = 0.009), or rate of idiopathic scoliosis between the MJ and RF groups. There was no significant difference in initial coronal Cobb angle percent correction (equivalence, P = 0.045) or percent correction at 1-year follow-up (equivalence, P = 0.010) between the two groups. There was no difference in cast related complications. There was a significant difference in surgical time, with the MJ group 11 min shorter than the RF (P = 0.005). CONCLUSION: The MJ table is a safe and effective alternative for applying EDF casts under traction without the need for a specialized table. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Femoral acetabular impingement labral pathology on MRI is correlated with greater hip flexion and decreased abduction in collegiate water polo players: A pilot study.

OBJECTIVES: Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) morphology is associated with hip pain and disability. Water polo players utilise the egg beater motion (method of treading water with legs rotating like an "egg beater"), and it is currently unclear what the relationship is between an egg beater and FAI morphology. Our objective was to associate hip range of motion during egg beater motion to MRI findings. METHODS: Eight National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division 1 varsity water polo athletes (5 females and 3 males) were filmed at orthogonal views performing the egg beater motion using two waterproof cameras in synchrony. A model-based image-matching technique was used to determine hip joint angles which were recorded from the software. These athletes also underwent noncontrast MRI scans of both hips using a 3T MRI scanner and completed an 33-item International Hip Outcome Tool (iHOT-33) hip pain outcomes questionnaire. Descriptive statistics are reported as counts and percentages for categorical variables and as means, standard deviations, and a five-number summary for continuous variables. Relationships between the range of motion measures with MRI measures and with iHOT33 scores were analysed using linear regression models. All statistical analyses were completes using a two-sided level of significance of 0.05. RESULTS: The average alpha angles for the right and left hips were 71.80 ±7.50 and 74.10 ±8.40, respectively. There was no statistically significant correlation between hip range of motion in any plane and alpha angle or lateral centre edge angle (CEA) on MRI. The average iHOT33 was 85.9 ± 18.9. Participants who had a labral tear had significantly smaller hip abduction ranges than participants who did not have a labral tear (29° ± 4.1 vs. 35.3° ± 0.6, p = 0.02), and those who had a labral tear had significantly increased hip flexion during egg beater kicking as compared with participants who did not have a labral tear (28.2° ± 6.1 vs. 16.3° ± 4, p = 0.02). There were no differences between right and left alpha angles or between right and left CEA. CONCLUSION: There were no significant correlations between hip range of motion and alpha angle or CEA, but hips with labral pathology had greater hip flexion and more limited hip abduction ranges.

Female gender, decreased lateral center edge angle and a positive hyperextension-external rotation test are associated with ease of hip distractability at time of hip arthroscopy.

PURPOSE: To identify factors associated with ease of hip distraction at the time of hip arthroscopy. METHODS: A retrospective review of patients 17-50 years old undergoing hip arthroscopy with a single high-volume hip arthroscopist was performed from 2014 to 2020. Demographics, clinical history, examination, and imaging findings were collected. Distractibility was quantified using turns of fine traction (1 turn = 4 mm axial distraction) with the patient paralyzed on a fracture table with a well-padded perineal post Fine axial traction was applied after the patient's perineum contacted the post. Demographic and clinical predictors of ease of distractibility were analyzed with simple linear regression models. Significant predictors were subsequently added to a multivariable linear regression model, estimating the effect of each variable. RESULTS: In total, 453 patients were included, with an average age of 31.6 years (± 9.2) and 45.9% females. In univariate analysis, gender, race, BMI, range of motion, hyperextension-external rotation (HEER) test, the abduction-extension-external rotation test, and lateral center edge angle (LCEA) were associated with the number of fine traction turns required to distract the hip. On multivariable analysis, lower LCEA (p = 0.002), female gender (p < 0.001), and a positive HEER test (p = 0.045) were associated with decreased turns required for adequate hip distraction. CONCLUSION: Female gender, decreased LCEA, and a positive HEER test are associated with decreased axial traction required for adequate hip distraction at the time of hip arthroscopy. As ease of distractibility has been associated with hip microinstability, these findings may allow pre-operative identification of hip instability patients and aid in pre-operative counseling, risk stratification and capsular management planning. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Preoperative identification of risk factors for ease of hip distraction may raise pre-surgical suspicion and, when coupled with other intraoperative findings, may aid in the diagnosis and management of hip microinstability.

Metastatic Pattern of Truncal and Extremity Leiomyosarcoma: Retrospective Analysis of Predictors, Outcomes, and Detection.

Leiomyosarcomas (LMS) are a heterogenous group of malignant mesenchymal neoplasms with smooth muscle origin and are classified as either non-uterine (NULMS) or uterine (ULMS). Metastatic pattern, prognostic factors, and ideal staging/surveillance studies for truncal and extremity LMS have not been defined. A retrospective analysis of patients diagnosed with histopathology-confirmed truncal or extremity LMS between 2009 and 2019 was conducted. Data collected included demographics, tumor characteristics, staging, surveillance, and survival endpoints. The primary site was defined as: (1) extremity, (2) flank/Pelvis, or (3) chest wall/Spine. We identified 73 patients, 23.3% of which had metastatic LMS at primary diagnosis, while 68.5% developed metastatic disease at any point. The mean metastatic-free survival from primary diagnosis of localized LMS was 3.0 ± 2.8 years. Analysis of prognostic factors revealed that greater age (≥50 years) at initial diagnosis (OR = 3.74, p = 0.0003), higher tumor differentiation scores (OR = 12.09, p = 0.002), and higher tumor necrosis scores (OR = 3.65, p = 0.026) were significantly associated with metastases. Older patients (≥50 years, OR = 4.76, p = 0.017), patients with larger tumors (≥5 cm or ≥10 cm, OR = 2.12, p = 0.02, OR = 1.92, p = 0.029, respectively), higher differentiation scores (OR = 15.92, p = 0.013), and higher necrosis scores (OR = 4.68, p = 0.044) show worse survival outcomes. Analysis of imaging modality during initial staging and during surveillance showed greater tumor detection frequency when PET imaging was employed, compared to CT imaging (p < 0.0001). In conclusion, truncal and peripheral extremity LMS is an aggressive tumor with high metastatic potential and mortality. While there is a significant risk of metastases to lungs, extra-pulmonary tumors are relatively frequent, and broad surveillance may be warranted.

Opiate prescribing patterns in the adolescent population following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

OBJECTIVE: We sought to determine prescribing patterns for opioid analgesia following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction among age- and gender-stratified adolescents in a nationally representative database. DESIGN: A retrospective study. SETTING: PearlDiver Patient Records. PATIENTS, PARTICIPANTS: Outpatient opioid claims within 30 days of surgery were extracted. The patients were defined into age groups 10-14 ("younger") and 15-19 ("older"). A total of 1,139 patients were included in this study (536 female and 603 males) with 108 patients in the 10-14 age category and 1,034 patients in the 15-19 category. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): The primary study outcome measures the average number of opioid pills administered, average total morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs) prescribed, and the average prescription strength (MMEs/pill). RESULTS: No difference was found in the average number of pills (p = 0.26) or normalized total MMEs (p = 0.312) prescribed by age group. Normalized total morphine equivalents per prescription was significantly lower in females than males (p = 0.005). Multivariate linear regression analysis demonstrated that increasing patient age was predictive of fewer total pills (p = 0.017), after accounting for gender. CONCLUSIONS: There are age- and gender-based disparities in prescription patterns for adolescent ACL reconstruction. Our findings indicate that patients in the older age group on average received fewer pills than the younger age group, which consequently trended toward receiving higher total MMEs prescribed. This suggests that surgeons may be inadvertently overprescribing in the younger cohort. Additional studies that account for concurrent factors should be conducted to observe potentially similar trends.

Rod-Screw Constructs Composed of Dissimilar Metals Do Not Affect Complication Rates in Posterior Fusion Surgery Performed for Adult Spinal Deformity.

STUDY DESIGN: This was a retrospective cohort study. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to compare implant-related complications between mixed-metal and same-metal rod-screw constructs in patients who underwent posterior fusion for adult spinal deformity. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Contact between dissimilar metals is discouraged due to potential for galvanic corrosion, increasing the risk for metal toxicity, infection, and implant failure. In spine surgery, titanium (Ti) screws are most commonly used, but Ti rods are notch sensitive and likely more susceptible to fracture after contouring for deformity constructs. Cobalt chrome (CC) and stainless steel (SS) rods may be suitable alternatives. No studies have yet evaluated implant-related complications among mixed-metal constructs (SS or CC rods with Ti screws). METHODS: Adults with spinal deformity who underwent at least 5-level thoracic and/or lumbar posterior fusion or 3-column osteotomy between January 2013 and May 2015 were reviewed, excluding neuromuscular deformity, tumor, acute trauma or infection. Implant-related complications included pseudarthrosis, proximal junctional kyphosis, hardware failure (rod fracture, screw pullout or haloing), symptomatic hardware, and infection. RESULTS: A total of 61 cases met inclusion criteria: 24 patients received Ti rods with Ti screws (Ti-Ti, 39%), 31 SS rods (SS-Ti, 51%), and 6 CC rods (CC-Ti, 9.8%). Median follow-up was 37-42 months for all groups. Because of the limited number of cases, the CC-Ti group was not included in statistical analyses. There were no differences between Ti-Ti and SS-Ti groups with regard to age, body mass index, or smokers. Implant-related complications did not differ between the Ti-Ti and SS-Ti groups (P=0.080). Among the Ti-Ti group, there were 15 implant-related complications (63%). In the SS-Ti group, there were 12 implant-related complications (39%). There were 3 implant-related complications in the CC-Ti group (50%). CONCLUSION: We found no evidence that combining Ti screws with SS rods increases the risk for implant-related complications.

Influence of team composition on turnover and efficiency of total hip and knee arthroplasty.

AIMS: Surgical costs are a major component of healthcare expenditures in the USA. Intraoperative communication is a key factor contributing to patient outcomes. However, the effectiveness of communication is only partially determined by the surgeon, and understanding how non-surgeon personnel affect intraoperative communication is critical for the development of safe and cost-effective staffing guidelines. Operative efficiency is also dependent on high-functioning teams and can offer a proxy for effective communication in highly standardized procedures like primary total hip and knee arthroplasty. We aimed to evaluate how the composition and dynamics of surgical teams impact operative efficiency during arthroplasty. METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of staff characteristics and operating times for 112 surgeries (70 primary total hip arthroplasties (THAs) and 42 primary total knee arthroplasties (TKAs)) conducted by a single surgeon over a one-year period. Each surgery was evaluated in terms of operative duration, presence of surgeon-preferred staff, and turnover of trainees, nurses, and other non-surgical personnel, controlling cases for body mass index, presence of osteoarthritis, and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score. RESULTS: Turnover among specific types of operating room staff, including the anaesthesiologist (p = 0.011), circulating nurse (p = 0.027), and scrub nurse (p = 0.006), was significantly associated with increased operative duration. Furthermore, the presence of medical students and nursing students were associated with improved intraoperative efficiency in TKA (p = 0.048) and THA (p = 0.015), respectively. The presence of surgical fellows (p > 0.05), vendor representatives (p > 0.05), and physician assistants (p > 0.05) had no effect on intraoperative efficiency. Finally, the presence of the surgeon's 'preferred' staff did not significantly shorten operative duration, except in the case of residents (p = 0.043). CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that active management of surgical team turnover and composition may provide a means of improving intraoperative efficiency during THA and TKA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(2):347-352.

Prevalence of Female Athlete Triad Risk Factors and Iron Supplementation Among High School Distance Runners: Results From a Triad Risk Screening Tool.

BACKGROUND: Investigations of the female athlete triad (Triad) in high school athletes have found that 36% had low energy availability, 54% had menstrual abnormalities, and 16% had low bone mineral density (BMD). Limited data are available showing the prevalence of these risk factors in high school distance runners or regarding best practice on screening for the Triad in the adolescent population. PURPOSE: To (1) evaluate the prevalence of Triad risk factors and iron supplementation in high school distance runners and (2) pilot a screening tool for Triad risk score. STUDY DESIGN: Descriptive epidemiology study. METHODS: The study population included female high school athletes who participated in cross-country/track. Participants completed a survey including questions regarding dietary habits, menstrual history, and bone stress injury (BSI) history. They then underwent evaluation of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, free triiodothyronine (T3), and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry scan to measure body fat and BMD through use of age-, sex-, and ethnicity-matched Z scores. Triad scores were calculated. Relationships were analyzed using Spearman correlation coefficient. RESULTS: There were 38 study participants (mean age, 16.9 years). Average body mass index was 19.8 kg/m2. Disordered eating or eating disorders were reported in 76.3% of runners; in addition, 23.7% reported delayed menarche, 45.9% had a history of amenorrhea or oligomenorrhea, 42.1% had low BMD (Z score < -1.0), and 15.8% reported prior BSI. Low free T3 was significantly associated with higher Triad risk scores (r S = -0.36; P = .028). More than 42% of athletes were supplementing iron. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of Triad risk factors in high school distance runners was high. Free T3 was inversely associated with Triad score, which may serve as an indicator of low energy availability. Nearly half of the athletes were using iron supplementation.