Efficacy of Periarticular Infiltration with Dexamethasone and Bupivacaine plus Adductor Canal Block Relative to That of Adductor Canal Block Alone for Patients Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Retrospective Case-Matched Study.

Purpose: Periarticular infiltration (PI) is a common procedure during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for postoperative pain management. This retrospective, case-matched study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of PI with dexamethasone and bupivacaine in combination with an adductor canal block (ACB) and compare it with that of ACB alone in reducing postoperative pain in patients with TKA. Methods: Data were collected from 66 patients who underwent TKA performed by a single surgeon. Thirty-three of them received ACB + PI, and 33 received ACB alone. However, both groups underwent identical surgical techniques and postoperative care protocols. The pain scores and fentanyl consumption of the two groups were compared. Results: The ACB + PI group had significantly lower pain scores than the ACB alone group at 8, 16, 24, and 48 hours postoperatively (p=0.033, 0.004, 0.038, and 0.049, respectively). The percentage of patients requiring fentanyl as a rescue medication was significantly higher for the ACB alone group (90.9%) than for the ACB + PI group (69.7%, p=0.03). The total fentanyl consumption was also lower for the ACB + PI group (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The periarticular injection of the combination of dexamethasone and bupivacaine plus ACB was more effective than ACB alone in reducing postoperative pain and fentanyl consumption in patients undergoing TKA. Further studies comparing different doses of dexamethasone or other cocktail regimens may provide additional insights into this approach.

Do cemented standard-length femoral stems have enough longevity for the pathological fractures of the femoral neck with metastatic lesions? A retrospective study.

Background: Cemented long-stem hip arthroplasty is a treatment of choice for the pathological fractures of the femoral neck with metastatic lesions and the prevention of further fracture caused by metastasis progression. Objective: The present study was an evaluation of the outcome after treatment of metastatic femoral neck fractures with cemented standard-length hemiarthroplasty. Methods: We retrospectively studied 23 patients in whom the pathological fractures of the femoral neck with metastatic lesions were diagnosed. All patients underwent hemiarthroplasty with cemented standard-length femoral stems. The demographic data of the patients and clinical outcomes were obtained from an electronic medical database. Metastasis progression-free survival time was analyzed via the Kaplan-Meier curve. Results: The mean age of the patients was 51.5 ± 11.7 years. The median duration of follow-up was 6.8 months (interquartile range, 5-22.6 months). Four patients exhibited tumor progression according to radiographic evaluation, but no patients had new fractures in the same bone or needed reoperation. The Kaplan-Meier curve revealed that 88.2% (74.2,100) of femurs demonstrated 1 year radiographic progression-free survival and 73.5% (49.4,100) demonstrated 2 year progression-free survival. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that the use of cemented standard-length stems in hemiarthroplasty for pathological fractures of the femoral neck with metastatic lesions is safe, and the rate of reoperation was low. We believe that this prosthesis is optimum for treatment in this group of patients because the length of survival in patients is expected to be short and the rate of metastasis progression in the same bone is low.

The Efficacy of Topical Tranexamic Acid in Femoral Neck Fractured Patients Undergoing Cemented Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty: A Randomized Double Blinded Controlled Trial.

Objective Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an antifibrinolytic that is widely used for decreasing blood loss and blood transfusion rates in total hip arthroplasty. However, there is limited evidence of topical TXA usage in hip hemiarthroplasty for femoral neck fractures. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of topical TXA on blood loss and on blood transfusions in femoral neck fracture patients who underwent cemented bipolar hemiarthroplasty. Methods Twenty-six patients with femoral neck fractures who were scheduled for bipolar cemented arthroplasty were randomized into two groups. The first group of 12 patients received topical TXA during their operation, whereas 14 patients in the second group received a placebo. Hematocrit was measured at 6 and 24 hours postoperatively. Blood transfusions and postoperative complications were also recorded. Results Total blood loss was not different between the TXA group and the control group (TXA group: 459.48 ± 456.32 ml, and control group: 732.98 ± 474.02 ml; p = 0.14). However, there were no patients within the TXA group who required a blood transfusion, while there were 4 patients in the control group who received allogenic blood transfusions ( p = 0.044). There were no postoperative complications, such as wound complication, venous thromboembolism, or cardiovascular complications within either group. Conclusion Topical TXA could not decrease total blood loss but was able to reduce transfusion rates in patients who underwent cemented bipolar hip hemiarthroplasty in femoral neck fractures. Further studies in doses of topical TXA in a larger sample size would be beneficial. Level of Evidence II.

The Efficacy of Topical Tranexamic Acid in Femoral Neck Fractured Patients Undergoing Cemented Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty: A Randomized Double Blinded Controlled Trial / A eficácia do ácido tranexâmico tópico em pacientes com fraturas no pescoço femoral submetidos a hemiartroplastia bipolar cimentada: Um ensaio controlado duplo-cego randomizado

Abstract Objective Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an antifibrinolytic that is widely used for decreasing blood loss and blood transfusion rates in total hip arthroplasty. However, there is limited evidence of topical TXA usage in hip hemiarthroplasty for femoral neck fractures. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of topical TXA on blood loss and on blood transfusions in femoral neck fracture patients who underwent cemented bipolar hemiarthroplasty. Methods Twenty-six patients with femoral neck fractures who were scheduled for bipolar cemented arthroplasty were randomized into two groups. The first group of 12 patients received topical TXA during their operation, whereas 14 patients in the second group received a placebo. Hematocrit was measured at 6 and 24 hours postoperatively. Blood transfusions and postoperative complications were also recorded. Results Total blood loss was not different between the TXA group and the control group (TXA group: 459.48 ± 456.32 ml, and control group: 732.98 ± 474.02 ml; p = 0.14). However, there were no patients within the TXA group who required a blood transfusion, while there were 4 patients in the control group who received allogenic blood transfusions (p = 0.044). There were no postoperative complications, such as wound complication, venous thromboembolism, or cardiovascular complications within either group. Conclusion Topical TXA could not decrease total blood loss but was able to reduce transfusion rates in patients who underwent cemented bipolar hip hemiarthroplasty in femoral neck fractures. Further studies in doses of topical TXA in a larger sample size would be beneficial. Level of Evidence II.

Resumo Objetivo O ácido tranexâmico (TXA) é um antifibrinolítico amplamente utilizado para diminuir as taxas de perda de sangue e de transfusão de sangue na artroplastia total do quadril. No entanto, há evidências limitadas de uso tópico de TXA na hemiartroplastia do quadril para fraturas no pescoço femoral. O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos do TXA tópico na perda de sangue e transfusões de sangue em pacientes com fratura femoral que foram submetidos a hemiartroplastia bipolar cimentada. Métodos Vinte e seis pacientes com fraturas no pescoço femoral e programados para artroplastia cimentada bipolar foram randomizados em dois grupos. O primeiro grupo de 12 pacientes recebeu TXA tópico durante a operação; no segundo grupo, 14 pacientes receberam placebo. O hematócrito foi medido às 6 e 24 horas no pósoperatório. Também foram registradas transfusões de sangue e complicações pósoperatórias. Resultados A perda total de sangue não foi diferente entre o grupo TXA e o grupo controle (grupo TXA: 459,48 ±456,32 ml; e grupo controle: 732,98 ±474,02 ml; p = 0,14). No entanto, não houve pacientes dentro do grupo TXA que necessitaram de transfusão de sangue, enquanto 4 pacientes no grupo controle fizeram transfusões de sangue halogênicas (p = 0,044). Não houve complicações pós-operatórias, tais como complicação da ferida, tromboembolismo venoso ou complicações cardiovasculares dentro de qualquer grupo. Conclusão O TXA tópico não conseguiu diminuir a perda total de sangue, mas foi capaz de reduzir as taxas de transfusão, em pacientes submetidos a hemiartroplastia de quadril bipolar cimentada em fraturas no pescoço femoral. Outros estudos com doses de TXA tópico em um tamanho amostral maior seriam benéficos. Nível de Evidência II.

Efficacy of a Combined Intramedullary, Periarticular Injection, and Intraarticular Tranexamic Acid Application on Postoperative Bleeding in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Retrospective Case-Matched Study.

Background: Topical tranexamic acid (TXA) has been widely used to reduce postoperative blood loss following total knee replacement (TKA). This study aimed to evaluate the effect of combined intramedullary, periarticular injection, and intraarticular TXA application in patients who underwent TKA as compared to those who did not. Methods: This was a retrospective case-matched study of 111 patients. We evaluated the transfusion rate and postoperative drainage of 56 patients who underwent TKA using combined topical tranexamic acid application (directly pushed into the femoral intramedullary canal and tibia base, with periarticular soft tissue injection and injected into the knee cavity via a drain tube) and the control group of 55 patients. Results: In the control and TXA groups, 7.14% and 1.81% of the patients received blood transfusions, respectively (p=0.176). The closed-suction drainage output at 0-8 h and total drainage output were significantly lower in the TXA group than those in the control group (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Application of topical TXA with the combined method (intramedullary, periarticular injection, and intraarticular) in TKA decreases postoperative suction drainage and may reduce the need for postoperative blood transfusion.

Aspirin versus Rivaroxaban to Prevent Venous Thromboembolism after Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Double-blinded, Randomized Controlled Trial.

Objective Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid, ASA) and rivaroxaban are anticoagulants that have increased in popularity due to ease of use in the prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE) after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of ASA compared with that of rivaroxaban on VTE prophylaxis in patients who underwent TKA. Method Forty patients who had primary knee osteoarthritis and would undergo TKA were randomized into two groups. In total, 20 patients in the ASA group used oral aspirin, at a dose of 300 mg/day, for VTE prophylaxis after TKA, while 20 patients in the rivaroxaban group received oral rivaroxaban, at a dose of 10 mg/day. On days 4 and 14 after the operation, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the lower limbs on the operated side was detected through duplex ultrasonography. Other complications were recorded for 14 days. Results There were no positive findings of DVT detected with duplex ultrasonography in the groups of patients, and the occurrence of pulmonary embolism was not observed. In total, 4 patients had subcutaneous ecchymosis on the fourth postoperative day (2 patients in the ASA group and 2 patients in the rivaroxaban group; p = 1.0), and another 4 patients on the fourteenth postoperative day (1 patient in the ASA group and 3 patients in the rivaroxaban group; p = 0.292). No cases of wound hematoma, major organ bleeding, wound infection, or reoperation were observed in the sample. Conclusion Aspirin and rivaroxaban had comparable efficacy to prevent VTE, without increasing the incidence of wound complications and bleeding after TKA.

Aspirin versus Rivaroxaban to Prevent Venous Thromboembolism after Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Double-blinded, Randomized Controlled Trial / Aspirina versus rivaroxabana na prevenção do tromboembolismo venoso após artroplastia total do joelho: Um ensaio clínico randomizado, controlado e duplo-cego

Abstract Objective Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid, ASA) and rivaroxaban are anticoagulants that have increased in popularity due to ease of use in the prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE) after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of ASA compared with that of rivaroxaban on VTE prophylaxis in patients who underwent TKA. Method Forty patients who had primary knee osteoarthritis and would undergo TKA were randomized into two groups. In total, 20 patients in the ASA group used oral aspirin, at a dose of 300 mg/day, for VTE prophylaxis after TKA, while 20 patients in the rivaroxaban group received oral rivaroxaban, at a dose of 10 mg/day. On days 4 and 14 after the operation, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the lower limbs on the operated side was detected through duplex ultrasonography. Other complications were recorded for 14 days. Results There were no positive findings of DVT detected with duplex ultrasonography in the groups of patients, and the occurrence of pulmonary embolism was not observed. In total, 4 patients had subcutaneous ecchymosis on the fourth postoperative day (2 patients in the ASA group and 2 patients in the rivaroxaban group; p= 1.0), and another 4 patients on the fourteenth postoperative day (1 patient in the ASA group and 3 patients in the rivaroxaban group; p= 0.292). No cases of wound hematoma, major organ bleeding, wound infection, or reoperation were observed in the sample. Conclusion Aspirin and rivaroxaban had comparable efficacy to prevent VTE, without increasing the incidence of wound complications and bleeding after TKA.

Resumo Objetivo A aspirina (ácido acetilsalicílico, AAS) e a rivaroxabana são anticoagulantes que vêm ganhando popularidade devido à facilidade de uso na prevenção do tromboembolismo venoso (TEV) após artroplastia total do joelho (ATJ). Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a eficácia do AAS em comparação com a da rivaroxabana na profilaxia de TEV em pacientes submetidos a ATJ. Método Quarenta pacientes com osteoartrite primária do joelho, que seriam submetidos a ATJ, foram randomizados em dois grupos. No total, 20 pacientes do grupo AAS usaram aspirina oral, na dose de 300 mg/dia, para a profilaxia do TEV após ATJ; e 20 pacientes do grupo rivaroxabana receberam uma dose oral de 10 mg/dia. No 4° e 14° dias do pós-operatório, trombose venosa profunda (TVP) dos membros inferiores no lado da cirurgia foi detectada por meio de ultrassonografia duplex. Foram registradas outras complicações durante catorze dias. Resultados Não foram detectados achados positivos de TVP com a ultrassonografia duplex nos grupos de pacientes, e não se observou a ocorrência de embolia pulmonar. No total, 4 pacientes apresentaram equimose subcutânea no 4° dia do pós-operatório (2 pacientes no grupo AAS e 2 pacientes no grupo rivaroxabana; p= 1,0), e outros 4 pacientes, no 14° dia do pós-operatório (1 paciente no grupo AAS e 3 pacientes no grupo rivaroxabana; p= 0,292). Nenhum paciente da amostra apresentou hematoma da ferida cirúrgica, sangramento de órgão importante, infecção da ferida, ou necessidade de nova cirurgia. Conclusão A aspirina e a rivaroxabana apresentaram eficácia comparável na prevenção do TEV, sem aumentar a incidência de complicações da ferida e sangramento após ATJ.

The ability and factors related with floor sitting after total hip arthroplasty with a posterolateral approach.

Background: Prosthesis dislocation following total hip arthroplasty (THA) is one complication that affects treatment outcome and increases the cost of treatment. Currently, many surgeons prohibit patients from performing floor-based activities; however, these prohibitions might affect the lifestyle of a number of patients. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the ability of floor sitting after THA, and factors associated with this ability. Methods: This study was a retrospective cohort study, evaluating 240 patients who underwent THA with a posterolateral approach, in a single tertiary hospital. Patient demographic data, preoperative clinical data, prostheses type, and postoperative radiographic were extracted from the electronic medical records. Postoperative ability to perform floor sitting was evaluated at 6 months postoperatively. Results: There were 52 patients (21.66%) who were able to sit on the floor postoperatively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed independent association between three factors with ability to sit on the floor after surgery: pre-operative external rotation range of motion (OR 1.03; 95% CI, 1.01-1.06; P = 0.01), pre-operative Harris Hip Scores (OR 1.05; 95% CI, 1.01-1.10; P = < 0.01), pre-operative ability to sit on the floor (OR 10.2; 95% CI, 3.65-28.5; P = < 0.01). Conclusion: There were a number of patients who could sit on the floor after THA. However, there were factors which were associated with this ability. Hence, these results could be useful for adjusted patient preoperative expectations, and did not preclude all patients to perform floor activities.

EFFICACY OF EXTENDED ORAL TRANEXAMIC ACID ON BLOOD LOSS IN PRIMARY TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY.

Introduction: Tranexamic acid is widely used for patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, the duration of systemic tranexamic acid (TXA) administration varies in many reports. Hence, this study aims to compare blood loss between a single intravenous (IV) TXA dose, and one dose of IV TXA combined with oral TXA, during 48-hour postoperative care in primary TKA. Methods: Ninety-four patients with primary osteoarthritis, who underwent primary TKA, were randomized into two groups. The first group consisted of 47 patients and received a dose of 750 mg IV TXA and 750 mg oral TXA postoperatively at 8-hour intervals for 48 hours. In the second group, 47 patients received a single dose of IV TXA and a placebo at the same intervals for the same time duration. Hemoglobin (Hb) was measured at 4, 24 and 72 hours after operation. Results: The mean total blood loss were not different between the two groups (p=0.37). There was no difference in total Hb reduction or closed suction drainage outputs (p=0.9 and 0.07, respectively). Conclusion: The extended use of oral TXA for 48-hour postoperative care did not decrease the total blood loss following TKA compared with a single dose of IV TXA. Level Of Evidence I; High quality randomized trial .

Introdução: O ácido tranexâmico é amplamente utilizado para pacientes submetidos à artroplastia total do joelho (ATJ). No entanto, a duração da administração de ácido tranexâmico sistêmico (ATS) varia em muitos relatórios. Assim, este estudo tem como objetivo comparar a perda sanguínea entre uma dose única intravenosa (IV) de ATS e uma dose de ATS IV combinada com ATS oral, no atendimento pós-operatório ao longo de 48 horas em ATJ primária. Métodos: Noventa e quatro pacientes com osteoartrite primária, submetidos a ATJ primária, foram randomizados em dois grupos. O primeiro grupo de 47 pacientes recebeu uma dose de 750 mg de ATS IV e 750 mg de ATS oral no pós-operatório, a cada 8 horas, durante 48 horas. No segundo grupo, 47 pacientes receberam dose única de ATS IV e placebo nos mesmos intervalos e pelo mesmo período de tempo. A hemoglobina (Hb) foi medida às 4, 24 e 72 horas de pós-operatório. Resultados: A média da perda sanguínea total não foi diferente entre os dois grupos (p = 0,37). Não houve diferença na redução da hemoglobina total ou saídas de drenagem de sucção fechada (p = 0,9 e 0,07, respectivamente). Conclusão: O uso prolongado de ácido tranexâmico oral por 48 horas de pós-operatório não diminuiu a perda total de sangue após ATJ em comparação com uma dose única de ATS IV. Nível de Evidência I; Estudo Clínico randomizado de alta qualidade .

Efficacy of extended oral tranexamic acid on blood loss in primary total knee arthroplasty / Eficácia do uso prolongado de ácido tranexâmico oral na perda de sangue na artroplastia total primária do joelho

ABSTRACT Introduction: Tranexamic acid is widely used for patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, the duration of systemic tranexamic acid (TXA) administration varies in many reports. Hence, this study aims to compare blood loss between a single intravenous (IV) TXA dose, and one dose of IV TXA combined with oral TXA, during 48-hour postoperative care in primary TKA. Methods: Ninety-four patients with primary osteoarthritis, who underwent primary TKA, were randomized into two groups. The first group consisted of 47 patients and received a dose of 750 mg IV TXA and 750 mg oral TXA postoperatively at 8-hour intervals for 48 hours. In the second group, 47 patients received a single dose of IV TXA and a placebo at the same intervals for the same time duration. Hemoglobin (Hb) was measured at 4, 24 and 72 hours after operation. Results: The mean total blood loss were not different between the two groups (p=0.37). There was no difference in total Hb reduction or closed suction drainage outputs (p=0.9 and 0.07, respectively). Conclusion: The extended use of oral TXA for 48-hour postoperative care did not decrease the total blood loss following TKA compared with a single dose of IV TXA. Level Of Evidence I; High quality randomized trial .

RESUMO Introdução: O ácido tranexâmico é amplamente utilizado para pacientes submetidos à artroplastia total do joelho (ATJ). No entanto, a duração da administração de ácido tranexâmico sistêmico (ATS) varia em muitos relatórios. Assim, este estudo tem como objetivo comparar a perda sanguínea entre uma dose única intravenosa (IV) de ATS e uma dose de ATS IV combinada com ATS oral, no atendimento pós-operatório ao longo de 48 horas em ATJ primária. Métodos: Noventa e quatro pacientes com osteoartrite primária, submetidos a ATJ primária, foram randomizados em dois grupos. O primeiro grupo de 47 pacientes recebeu uma dose de 750 mg de ATS IV e 750 mg de ATS oral no pós-operatório, a cada 8 horas, durante 48 horas. No segundo grupo, 47 pacientes receberam dose única de ATS IV e placebo nos mesmos intervalos e pelo mesmo período de tempo. A hemoglobina (Hb) foi medida às 4, 24 e 72 horas de pós-operatório. Resultados: A média da perda sanguínea total não foi diferente entre os dois grupos (p = 0,37). Não houve diferença na redução da hemoglobina total ou saídas de drenagem de sucção fechada (p = 0,9 e 0,07, respectivamente). Conclusão: O uso prolongado de ácido tranexâmico oral por 48 horas de pós-operatório não diminuiu a perda total de sangue após ATJ em comparação com uma dose única de ATS IV. Nível de Evidência I; Estudo Clínico randomizado de alta qualidade .

Relationship between web-based illness scripts and the performance of medical students in orthopedic surgery placements.

OBJECTIVES: We aimed to explore the relationship between web-based orthopedic illness scripts and medical students' performance as assessed through examination results. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study with 83 fifth-year medical students in an academic hospital. During a one-month placement, they were instructed to do web-based illness scripts. Their performances were assessed by examination in the last week. All recorded data about illness scripts and examination results were retrieved. The students were separated into high and low response groups based on completed illness scripts. The characteristics of the students between the two groups were compared. Pearson correlation coefficients and regression analysis were used to identify the relationship between illness scripts and examination results. RESULTS: There were 56 students in the high-response and 27 in the low-response groups. The characteristics and examination scores were not significantly different between the groups, while there was a significant difference in script completion (t(27)=13.72, p<0.001). Using Pearson correlation, we found weak correlations without significance between completed scripts, illness script scores, and examination scores. We found no relationship between illness script scores and examination scores, even in the high response group, by regression analysis. CONCLUSIONS: The use of web-based orthopedic illness scripts did not correlate to the examination performance of medical students. A high number of scripts without variety and limited time for practicing may have obscured potential positive relationships. Illness scripts should be adjusted as appropriate for each school before being assigned. A further multi-center, prospective study is suggested to identify the correlations and investigate the influencing factors.

A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial of Efficacy and Safety: Drug-Free Gel Containing Ultra-Deformable Phospholipid Vesicles (TDT 064) in Osteoarthritic Knees.

BACKGROUND: There are a number of topical agents that are used for treatment of knee osteoarthritis. Drug-free gels, containing ultra-deformable phospholipid vesicles (TDT 064) are one such topical therapy, which have been stated to act as a bio lubricant. However, the evidence of TDT 064 in treatment of knee osteoarthritis is limited. Hence, the aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of pain control as a primary outcome and safety of TDT 064 compared with a topical placebo. METHODS: Sixty-four patients with primary osteoarthritis, with radiographic showing Kellgren and Lawrence classification grade II to III, were randomized into 2 groups. In the first group of 32 patients TDT 064 was used as topical agent, whilst in the second group of 32 patients a placebo identical in appearance was used instead. The verbal numerical rating scale (VNRS) was used for recording pain levels, Self-reported Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores (KOOS) as well as amounts of rescue medication were also recorded. The data were recorded at the start of the study, and then at follow-up appointments of 14 days, 6 weeks, and 3 months. RESULTS: The mean VNRS for pain in both groups were significantly improved, when compared to the start of treatment (P < .0001); however, there were no differences between groups at any follow up visit. KOOS in all subscales were not significantly different between both groups at baseline and at the end of treatment. However, the average amount of NSAIDs in the TDT 064 group was 26.39 ± 22.11 tabs, which was significantly lower than the control group; which used an average 37.03 ± 19.22 tabs in 3 months (P = .047). CONCLUSIONS: There were no differences in the VNRS for pain and KOOS scores between the active and placebo groups. Although, TDT 064 could decrease usage of rescue medication the difference with use of a placebo was minimal. Further, larger trials would also be beneficial to demonstrate any differences between TDT 064 and a placebo. TRIAL REGISTRATION: TCTR, TCTR 20190302001. Registered 1 March, 2019: http://www.clinicaltrials.in.th.

Expectations on online orthopedic course using constructivism theory: A cross-sectional study among medical students.

BACKGROUND: Medical education in this era has been disturbed by coronavirus disease. Our faculty has quickly adapted the curricula to online formats. The online format seems to be more advantageous in terms of content material and virtual activities, but the results of these adjustments will require subsequent evaluation. The aim of this study was to evaluate medical student expectations of online orthopedics learning that was created based on social constructivism theory. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was carried out to assess the fifth-year medical student expectations of our newly developed online orthopedics course during the outbreak. Constructivist Online Learning Environment Survey (COLLES) was applied for evaluating the expectations during orthopedic rotation. The survey contains six aspects based on social constructivist principles: relevance, reflection, interactivity, tutor support, peer support, and interpretation. All students responded to the preferred COLLES before starting the online course, and the actual COLLES was filled out when the online course was completed. Before and after attending the online course, the scores were compared and interpreted to assess student expectations. RESULTS: A total of 126 fifth-year medical students studied the online orthopedic course. The preferred COLLES were completed by 125 students, while 120 students replied to the actual COLLES. The overall scores from the post-course survey in all aspects were significantly higher than scores from the pre-course with P-value < 0.01. The comparison between the preferred and actual scores showed this online course fulfilled student expectations. CONCLUSION: The outbreak of coronavirus disease 19 has disrupted medical student education. The online orthopedic learning course in our department has been developed to deal with the current situation. Using the various activities based on social constructivism theory in the online platform was able to fulfill medical student expectations.

Factors for Blood Transfusions Following Hemi Hip Arthroplasty for Patients With Femoral Neck Fracture.

BACKGROUND: Hemi hip arthroplasty is one treatment option for femoral neck fractures; however, there has been limited evidence on factors associated with blood transfusions following hemi hip arthroplasty. Hence, the aim of this study was to identify the predictors of blood transfusion after hemi hip arthroplasty, which could lead to the establishment of proper guidelines for management protocols. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was a retrospective cohort study, conducted in a single center of 323 femoral neck fracture patients having undergone hemi hip arthroplasty. Peri-operative factors and demographic data were extracted from the electronic medical records, from 2007 to 2019. A predictive model was developed by logistic regression (LR), and adjusted by multivariate logistic regression. RESULT: One hundred and twenty-six (39%) patients received blood transfusions. On multivariate analysis, those of a female gender (odds ratio (OR) 2.00, p = 0.037), having a body mass index lower than 18.5 kg/m2 (OR 2.40, p = 0.028), lower preoperative hemoglobin levels (OR 0.52, p < 0.001) and given general anesthesia (OR 2.07, p = 0.028) were shown to be significantly associated with a higher risk of requiring a blood transfusion. CONCLUSION: The authors recommend that preparation of blood components coupled with the utilization of blood conserving methods for high risk patients, as studies have stated, in addition to the consideration of spinal anesthesia; if patients have no contraindication, should be implemented.

Factors Affecting Adherence to Follow-up Appointments after total knee arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: Regular attendance of follow-up visits after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is an important aspect of post-TKA patient care. Hence, this study was conducted to evaluate patient adherence to follow-up visits after TKA and analyze the factors that are associated with adherence to follow-up visits following TKA. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study was a retrospective study. The data of 411 knee osteoarthritis patients who had primary TKA were extracted from a single tertiary care hospital's electronic database. All of the pa-tients underwent the same patient care protocol. The log-rank test was used for detecting differences in follow-up survival and influencing factors. Hazard ratios (HR) were calculated using Cox proportional hazard models. RESULTS: The percentage of patients attending postoperative follow-up was 99.3 percent at 6 weeks, 61.1 percent after 1 year, 38.4 percent at 2 years, 32.1 percent after 3 years, and 24.6 percent at 4 years. Hazard ratios for loss to follow-up in patients younger than 65 years of age and those 65-75 years old, compared with those over 75 years old were 2.09 and 1.49, respectively (P<0.05). Patients classified as ASA II better adhered to follow-up visits than ASA III patients. (HR 0.71, P = 0.04). Lastly, HR in patients who lived at least 100 km away from the hospital compared with those who lived less than 100 km away was 0.78 (P = 0.033). CONCLUSIONS: 1. Adherence to follow-up visits after TKA was lower than we had expected. 2. The importance of follow-up visits should be emphasized to all patients, and especially in those who require special attention, such as patients who are at high risk of post-operative complications.

Balanced Suspension versus Pillow on Preoperative Pain for Proximal Femur Fractures: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

INTRODUCTION: To evaluate the efficacy of a balanced suspension system, using the Thomas splint, with Pearson attachment, compared with a pillow for preoperative pain in patients with proximal femoral fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty patients with proximal femur fractures were randomized into two groups: a balanced suspension group and a pillow group. In the first group, a balanced suspension was applied after length adjustment, to match the patient's leg and thigh. In the pillow group, a pillow was placed below the patient's leg, to position the patient's hip in a semiflexion and external rotation position. Preoperative pain severity, by using a verbal numerical rating scale (VNRS), the amount of morphine consumed, and complication were recorded. RESULTS: There were no differences in patient characteristics between the groups. The mean VNRS for pain was not statistically different between the groups, from the start of the study up to 48 hours. The mean of morphine consumption was not different between the groups at the start of the study, on day 1, and on day 2 (p=0.25, 0.89, and 0.053, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: A balanced suspension did not improve patient outcome to the same level as other tractions in previous studies. Hence, other methods for reducing pain, while waiting for definite operations, should be focused on. The clinical trial is registered with TCTR20150514002.

Multiple needle puncture combined with repetitive knee manipulation in total knee arthroplasty for correcting varus deformity.

PURPOSE: Multiple needle punctures (MNPs), for gap balancing in total knee replacement, have less variability in gap widening compared to the conventional released technique. This study aimed to evaluate the outcome of gap-balancing techniques in varus osteoarthritis (OA) knees, by serial MNP, after a total knee prosthesis trial component was placed, combined with repetitive knee manipulation. METHODS: This study was a retrospective, case-matched study of 161 patients. The data were collected from varus OA knee patients, who had total knee arthroplasty by a single surgeon. Sixty-eight patients required MNP, combined with repetitive knee manipulation for gap balancing, and 93 patients did not. Both groups of MNP patients underwent the same surgical technique and postoperative care protocols. RESULTS: Knee society scores, in terms of knee score and functional score, were not different in both groups when we started the study, at 6-month and 1-year follow-ups (p > 0.05). The femorotibial angle was not significantly different between groups at the start of the study, initial postoperative, 6 months, and 1 year (p = 0.74, 0.45, 0.99, and 0.82, respectively). Medial joint opening in knee radiographic was found in 3% of the patients in the MNP group and in 4% of patients in the control group at 1-year follow-up (p = 0.65). CONCLUSION: This study found MNP combined with repetitive knee manipulation was effective, reproductive, and a safe method for varus OA knee. We believe that the cycle of performed needle punctures, knee manipulation, and reevaluation could gradually lengthen the medial soft tissue without risk of over lengthening or medial collateral ligament rupture.

Effect of hip abductor strengthening exercises in knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Osteoarthritis knee (OA) for patients whom had varus malalignment had higher peak adductor moment. Hip abductor strength played an important role in the decreasement of knee adduction moment. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of hip abductor exercises for patients who had medial compartment knees OA. METHODS: Patients who had medial compartmental OA knee were randomized into two groups. The first group performed hip abductor strengthening exercises, combined with quadriceps strengthening exercises; whereas, the second group performed standalone quadriceps strengthening exercises. Self-reported Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores (KOOS) were collected by patients on follow-up visits. RESULTS: Eighty-six patients completed the trial. All KOOS subscales were significantly improved in both groups after 10 weeks of treatment. However, there was no significant difference in the scores between either group at 2-10 weeks after treatment. Nevertheless, the effects of exercise for pain, symptoms, function in daily living and knee-related quality of life were found to have faster improvement within the hip abduction exercise group compared to the control group (2 weeks faster; pain, function in daily living and knee-related quality of life, 4 weeks faster; symptoms.) CONCLUSION: Since, adding quadriceps exercises could expedite improvement of less pain, symptoms, activity in daily living and quality of life faster than quadriceps exercises solely for a 2-4 weeks period. However, the effect size was small and there were no differences after this; hence, consideration of adding hip abductor exercises in the treatment protocol should be based on the patients and doctors appraisal. TRIAL REGISTRATION: TCTR, TCTR20180517005. Registered 17 May 2018.

The "Cough Trick" Reduces Pain During Removal of Closed-suction Drains after Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Randomized Trial.

BACKGROUND: Drain removal after TKA can be painful. Prior research suggests that the "cough trick," in which a patient coughs at the same time she or he receives an injection, effectively decreases pain. To our knowledge, this intervention has not been evaluated as a way to reduce pain during other brief but painful interventions, such as removal of closed-suction drains after orthopaedic surgery. QUESTION/PURPOSE: Does the cough trick reduce pain while a surgeon is removing a closed-suction drain after TKA? METHODS: Fifty-six patients with primary osteoarthritis who underwent primary TKA were randomized into two groups: drain removal as the patient coughed (n = 28 patients; three men, 25 women) or drain removal using the usual process, without the cough trick (n = 28 patients; three men, 25 women). The study groups were not different in terms of gender, BMI, surgical time, or other baseline variables, and other than the addition of the cough trick, there were no differences in surgical treatment or other elements of aftercare. Likewise, at baseline, the verbal numeric rating scale (VNRS) score for pain before the drain was removed was not different between the groups (3.1 ± 1.7 versus 3.3 ± 1.3; p = 0.72). The level of pain before and during drain removal was recorded using a VNRS by an orthopaedic surgeon who was not involved in the care of the study patients. We considered the minimum clinically important difference on the 10-point scale to be 2 points, based on prior evidence. RESULTS: The mean ± SD VNRS for the pain level during drain removal was lower in the cough trick group than that in the control group (1.6 ± 1.0 versus 3.7 ± 1.9, mean difference 2.1; 95% CI, 1.3-2.9; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The cough trick during removal of a closed-suction drain tube in patients undergoing TKA reduced the level of pain in this small randomized trial. We suggest that surgeons consider this technique when removing drains after TKA because it is a noninvasive technique and it is easy to perform. Because the cough trick has been shown by others to be effective at reducing pain during venipuncture and parenteral injections, and we found it was effective for that purpose during drain removal after TKA, we believe this finding probably generalizes well to most minor procedures that cause transient, sharp pain. We suggest that it could be used to make such procedures more comfortable for patients, as well as for drain removal in other types of surgery where drains still are commonly used (including spine surgery and tumor surgery). LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level I, therapeutic study.