Quality and Readability Analysis of Online Information on First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Fusion.

Patients frequently turn to the internet to learn about their orthopedic procedures. This study evaluates the readability and quality of first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint fusion information found online. We evaluated websites based on classification, search term, readability, HON code, DISCERN score, Journal of the American Medical Association benchmark criteria, and an author-created MTP fusion index (MFI). The average readability of websites was 8.48 ± 1.99, above the recommended sixth- or eighth-grade reading level. Almost half of all websites (48.98%) provided "poor" information. Keywords had no significant impact on the readability or quality of information. Academic/governmental websites had the highest quality of information, with the highest DISCERN and second highest MFI. Most websites (52.04%) were commercial and were the easiest to read, but had the second lowest DISCERN and MFI scores. Our results suggest that inappropriate information on the MTP joint fusion procedure is abundant online. Academic/governmental websites have the highest quality of information, but may be difficult for patients to comprehend. Many websites do have readable and relevant information. We recommend that physicians create a list of websites with accurate, relevant information for patients to circumvent the misinformation they may find while navigating and reading online.

The Role of Body Mass Index in Perioperative Complications Among Patients Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Obesity is a modifiable risk factor that causes mechanical forces to be exerted within the joints, further contributing to the debilitating effects of osteoarthritis. Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) can have a profound impact on patients with osteoarthritis, providing them with increased quality of life, improved function, reduction of pain, while simultaneously preventing the development of additional comorbidities. Although there is inconclusive evidence that increased body mass index (BMI) is linked to increased perioperative complications among TKA patients, recent studies suggest this association exists. The aim of this study is to provide conclusive data on the effects of BMI on perioperative complications in TKA using the national risk-adjusted database, ACS-NSQIP. Our study demonstrated that there was a correlation between increased BMI and perioperative outcomes, particularly with surgical site infections, renal, and respiratory complications. (Journal of Surgical Orthopaedic Advances 29(4):205-208, 2020).