Does the Use of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy and Postoperative Drains Impact the Development of Surgical Site Infections?: A PARITY Trial Secondary Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Surgical site infections (SSIs) represent a major complication following oncologic reconstructions. Our objectives were (1) to assess whether the use of postoperative drains and/or negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) were associated with SSIs following lower-extremity oncologic reconstruction and (2) to identify factors associated with the duration of postoperative drains and with the duration of NPWT. METHODS: This is a secondary analysis of the Prophylactic Antibiotic Regimens in Tumor Surgery (PARITY) trial, a multi-institution randomized controlled trial of lower-extremity oncologic reconstructions. Data were recorded regarding the use of drains alone, NPWT alone, or both NPWT and drains, including the total duration of each postoperatively. We analyzed postoperative drain duration and associations with tourniquet use, intraoperative thromboprophylaxis or antifibrinolytic use, incision length, resection length, and total operative time, through use of a linear regression model. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to evaluate the independent predictors of SSI. RESULTS: Overall, 604 patients were included and the incidence of SSI was 15.9%. Postoperative drains alone were used in 409 patients (67.7%), NPWT alone was used in 15 patients (2.5%), and both postoperative drains and NPWT were used in 68 patients (11.3%). The median (and interquartile range [IQR]) duration of drains and of NPWT was 3 days (IQR, 2 to 5 days) and 6 days (IQR, 4 to 8 days), respectively. The use of postoperative drains alone, NPWT alone, or both drains and NPWT was not associated with SSI (p = 0.14). Increased postoperative drain duration was associated with longer operative times and no intraoperative tourniquet use, as shown on linear regression analysis (p < 0.001 and p = 0.03, respectively). A postoperative drain duration of ≥14 days (hazard ratio [HR], 3.6; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3 to 9.6; p = 0.01) and an operative time of ≥8 hours (HR, 4.5; 95% CI, 1.7 to 11.9; p = 0.002) were independent predictors of SSI following lower-extremity oncologic reconstruction. CONCLUSIONS: A postoperative drain duration of ≥14 days and an operative time of ≥8 hours were independent predictors of SSI following lower-extremity oncologic reconstruction. Neither the use of postoperative drains nor the use of NPWT was a predictor of SSI. Future research is required to delineate the association of the combined use of postoperative drains and NPWT with SSI. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Metastatic mesenchymal chondrosarcoma of the spine managed with nonsurgical treatment: A case report and review of the literature.

In this report, we present a rare case of a 17-year-old male patient with metastatic mesenchymal chondrosarcoma (MCS) managed with nonsurgical treatment who subsequently demonstrated a favorable response to concurrent chemotherapy and radiation therapy, followed with pazopanib target therapy. Further study regarding nonoperative care for metastatic MCS of spine is warranted.

Stress-Mediated Attenuation of Translation Undermines T-cell Activity in Cancer.

Protein synthesis supports robust immune responses. Nutrient competition and global cell stressors in the tumor microenvironment (TME) may impact protein translation in T cells and antitumor immunity. Using human and mouse tumors, we demonstrated here that protein translation in T cells is repressed in solid tumors. Reduced glucose availability to T cells in the TME led to activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) element eIF2α (eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 alpha). Genetic mouse models revealed that translation attenuation mediated by activated p-eIF2α undermines the ability of T cells to suppress tumor growth. Reprograming T-cell metabolism was able to alleviate p-eIF2α accumulation and translational attenuation in the TME, allowing for sustained protein translation. Metabolic and pharmacological approaches showed that proteasome activity mitigates induction of p-eIF2α to support optimal antitumor T-cell function, protecting from translation attenuation and enabling prolonged cytokine synthesis in solid tumors. Together, these data identify a new therapeutic avenue to fuel the efficacy of tumor immunotherapy. SIGNIFICANCE: Proteasome function is a necessary cellular component for endowing T cells with tumor killing capacity by mitigating translation attenuation resulting from the unfolded protein response induced by stress in the tumor microenvironment.

The Use of Carbon Fiber Implants for Impending or Existing Pathologic Fractures.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the utility and complications of using carbon fiber implants (CFIs) compared with standard titanium alloy (TI) intramedullary implants for stabilization of impending or existing pathologic fractures. DESIGN: Retrospective comparison. PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS: Ninety-four patients undergoing intramedullary fixation of 100 impending or existing pathologic fractures between 2014-2019 were identified for inclusion. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS: The primary outcome was postoperative complications. Other outcomes included implant type, pathology, indication, and adjuvant therapy. RESULTS: Fifty-three percent of cases used a CFI, whereas 47% of cases used a TI. There were no differences between groups with regard to anatomic location (P = 0.218), indication for surgery (P = 0.066), histology (P = 0.306), or postoperative adjuvant therapy (P = 0.308). Nineteen percent of cases incurred a postoperative complication in each group (P = 0.530), and no differences were noted with regard to complication type including implant failure (P = 0.442) and wound complications (P = 0.322). There was a cost saving of $400 with TI implants compared with CFI. CONCLUSIONS: This is a high-risk population for postoperative complications after stabilization of pathologic fractures. Although there were no statistical differences in complications between CFI and TI, implant choice depends on patient characteristics and surgeon preference. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Workplace Hazards in Orthopaedic Surgery Training: A Nationwide Resident Survey Involving Sharps-related Injuries.

INTRODUCTION: Surgical specialties are at an increased risk for occupational hazards, including sharps-related injuries. The objective of this study was to report the frequency of sharps injuries and evaluate which characteristics influence the number of injuries and reporting behaviors. METHODS: A web-based, anonymous survey was available for 10 weeks to 46 US orthopaedic surgery residency programs (1,207 potential residents) participating in an education research collaborative. The survey was divided into the following areas: demographics, training and attitudes concerning occupational hazards, and sharps injuries and reporting. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between the above variables on experiencing sharps injuries with significance threshold set at P < 0.05. RESULTS: In this study, 518 surveys were included yielding a response rate of 42.9% (518/1,207). Nearly 80% of the residents recalled some form of safety training during intern orientation and 62% of the respondents felt that they received adequate occupation safety training specifically related to orthopaedic surgery. Four hundred seventeen residents (80.5%) experienced a sharps injury (mean 2.8). Nearly 20% of the respondents experienced ≥5 sharps injuries. Needle sticks (38.8%) were responsible for the greatest percentage of injuries, followed by Kirschner wires (33.6%), scalpel (22.5%), and bone (17.3%). Only 42% of the residents consistently reported all injuries. Reasons included feelings of no risk (63.1%), too much hassle (58.9%), embarrassment (14.5%), other (8.7%), forgot (5.8%), and unclear what to do (3.3%). Inadequate safety training specific to orthopaedic surgery (odds ratio, 2.32 [95% confidence interval, 1.20 to 4.46]; P = 0.012) and greater training seniority (odds ratio, 2.04 [95% confidence interval, 1.64 to 2.52]; P < 0.0001) were associated with acquiring five or more sharps injuries. DISCUSSION: Sharps injuries are a prevalent and concerning reality for orthopaedic surgical trainees. Despite this common occurrence, only 42% of the residents always reported their injuries. Inadequate training specific to orthopaedic surgery and each subsequent year of postgraduate training are associated with increased sharps injuries. STUDY TYPE: Level III, retrospective observational survey.

Resident Level Involvement Affects Operative Time and Surgical Complications in Lower Extremity Fracture Care.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of resident participation on operative time and surgical complications in isolated lower extremity fracture care. SETTING: Patients who were treated at teaching hospitals participating in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 2,488 patients who underwent surgical fixation of isolated hip fractures, femoral or tibial shaft fractures, and ankle fractures. DESIGN: Patients were stratified by surgical procedure and post-graduate year (PGY) of the resident involved. Total operative time and surgical complications were analyzed with respect to resident participation and seniority. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to adjust for potential confounders including case complexity, wound class, and patient comorbidity burden. RESULTS: As PGY level increased, operative time increased for each procedure. The odds for a deep surgical site infection decreased as resident seniority increased, but the odds for wound dehiscence increased as resident seniority increased. We found no difference in the incidences of superficial infections or return to the OR with respect to PGY level. Academic quarter within the academic year did not correlate with any of the surgical complications. Furthermore, when cases performed with residents were compared to those performed without residents, there was no increased risk of superficial infections, deep infections, or return to the OR. CONCLUSIONS: This nationally representative dataset demonstrates that operative times for lower extremity orthopedic trauma increased as resident seniority increased. Additionally, senior resident participation was associated with increased wound dehiscence, whereas junior resident participation was associated with an increased risk of deep surgical site infections. However, there was no associated "July effect" for residents at any level of training and there was no increased risk for surgical site infections or return to the OR in cases involving resident participation.

Epithelioid Sarcoma Arising in a Long-Term Survivor of an Atypical Teratoid/Rhabdoid Tumor in a Patient With Rhabdoid Tumor Predisposition Syndrome.

Rhabdoid tumor predisposition syndrome (RTPS) is defined as the presence of a SMARCB1 or SMARCA4 genetic aberration in a patient with malignant rhabdoid tumor. Patients with RTPS are more likely to present with synchronous or metachronous rhabdoid tumors. Based on the current state of rhabdoid tumor taxonomy, these diagnoses are based largely on patient demographics, anatomic location of disease, and immunohistochemistry, despite their nearly identical histologic and immunohistochemical profiles. Thus, the true distinction between such tumors remains a diagnostic challenge. Central nervous system atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT) is a rare, aggressive, primarily pediatric malignancy with variable histologic features and a well documented association with loss of SMARCB1 expression. Epithelioid sarcoma (ES) is a rare soft tissue tumor arising in patients of all ages and characteristically staining for both mesenchymal and epithelial immunohistochemical markers while usually demonstrating loss of SMARCB1 expression. To our knowledge we herein present the first documented case of a patient with RTPS who presented with metachronous AT/RT and ES.

Notable Variability in Opioid-prescribing Practices After Common Orthopaedic Procedures.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to evaluate nationwide trends and regional variability in opioid prescriptions after common orthopaedic procedures. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of privately insured subjects from the MarketScan database between 2015 and 2016 was conducted. Median oral morphine equivalents and interquartile ranges were analyzed by region for the initial post-op prescriptions and 90-day total prescriptions for opioid-naive patients undergoing the following: carpal tunnel release; anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction; arthroscopic meniscectomy; bimalleolar ankle fracture open reduction and internal fixation; distal radius fracture open reduction and internal fixation; arthroscopic rotator cuff repair; single-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion; and total shoulder, hip, and knee arthroplasties. We hypothesized that notable regional variability exists with postoperative narcotic prescribing habits. RESULTS: Seventy three thousand nine hundred twenty-one opioid-naive patients were identified. A notable regional variability was observed across the United States in the prescriptions given for all procedures, except total joint arthroplasty. Furthermore, although patients undergoing soft-tissue-only procedures required the fewest refills, patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty required the most. DISCUSSION: Notable regional variability exisits in opioid prescribing patterns for many common orthopaedic procedures. Furthermore, prescriptions were smallest in the region most affected by the opioid epidemic. This information can be used to re-evaluate recommendations, serve as a benchmark for surgeons, and develop institutional and quality improvement guidelines to reduce excess postoperative opioid prescriptions. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III observational cohort study.

Acute Workplace Hazards in Orthopedic Surgery: Resident Survey Regarding Splash and Workplace Violence Events.

INTRODUCTION: Orthopedic surgery residents are at risk for daily work-related hazards and exposures. Hazards related specific to this specialty includes radiation exposure, smoke inhalation (from electrocautery), and disease transmission through contact with surgical instruments or sharps during procedures. However, minimal research has been focused on other occupational hazard risks in orthopedic surgery including surgical splash events and workplace violence. This study focused on determining (1) whether or not use of protective eyewear in the workplace would be related to the availability of personal protective equipment (PPE); (2) resident education; and (3) the rate of workplace violence toward orthopedic surgery residents during their training. METHODS: An invitation to participate in a web-based, anonymous survey to 46 US allopathic orthopedic surgery residency programs (1207 potential resident respondents). The survey was conceptually divided into the following areas: (1) demographics; (2) training and attitudes concerning occupational hazards; (3) PPE provision and use; (4) sharps injuries and reporting; and (5) general safety knowledge and violence in the workplace. Those who answered yes to having a splatter event or receiving a threat at the hospital were compared to those who did not. Logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association between these outcomes and selected independent variables of interest. p-Values of <0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: From January 18 to March 31, 2016, 518 surveys were received and included for analysis for a response rate of 42.9% (518/1207). One survey was excluded from analysis due to <50% completed response items. Self-reported program types were 64.5% (334/518) public university-affiliated, 23.2% (120/518) private university affiliated, 7.1% (37/518) community, and 5.2% (27/518) military. Residents were 83.0% = male and 17.0% = female. Overall, reported eye protection usage was 95% amongst all residents and 22% of residents reported experiencing a violent threat in the workplace. The risk of experiencing a splatter event was not statistically associated with residency type, gender, or geographic region. Senior residents were at an increased likelihood of experiencing a splatter event (OR 1.22, [95% CI 1.06-1.41], p = 0.006) when compared to PGY-1 residents. The risk of a violent experience at work was not statistically associated with residency type, year of residency training, or gender. Residents in the Northeast were more likely to have a violent experience (OR 2.78 [95% CI 1.41-5.49] p = 0.003). Overall, residents felt that they had adequate training to prevent occupational hazards (mean of 3.9/5 on Likert scale) and respond to hazards (mean of 3.7/5 Likert). CONCLUSIONS: Occupational hazards are not uncommon in orthopedic surgery training with high rates of improper eyewear PPE use and poor awareness of Occupational Safety and Health Administration and AAOS guidelines. Violence in the workplace impacts over one in 4 residents and training programs and hospitals should improve education and report efforts. Continual yearly PPE training and awareness of AAOS guidelines could be intertwined with duty hour and/or case logs in order to ensure residents are exposed to this material on a regular basis.

Murine Aseptic Surgical Model of Femoral Atrophic Nonunion.

Although bone repair is typically an efficient process, an inadequate healing response can occur, with approximately 5-20% of fractures developing nonunion. Even with improved healing strategies and external fixation devices, overall rate of nonunion has not been significantly reduced, particularly for atrophic nonunion. Atrophic nonunion is characterized by sparse or no callus formation and is difficult to treat clinically, resulting in long-term pain and functional limitation. Reliable preclinical models are needed to study the pathophysiology of atrophic nonunion to create better treatment options. The MouseNail kit (RISystem, Landquart, Switzerland) provides a highly standardized approach in which stabilized segmental bone defects are achieved through interlocked intramedullary nailing. However, reliably performing this surgery is technically challenging, particularly while maintaining strict asepsis. Skilled and aseptic surgical execution is important and necessary because it ensures optimal animal welfare and reproducibility. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to describe:•Novel modifications to the MouseNail kit that allow for: 1) a completely aseptic surgical environment, including description of a hanging limb orthopedic aseptic preparation and 2) a reduction in fracture gap size necessary for induction of atrophic nonunion.•Pre- to post-operative recommendations to facilitate successful performance of murine orthopedic survival surgery.

Notable Racial and Ethnic Disparities Persist in Lower Extremity Amputations for Critical Limb Ischemia and Infection.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study is to investigate the current disparities for major lower extremity amputation in patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI) and infection. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program's database for the years 2011 to 2017 was conducted. Multivariate models were used to isolate the effect of race and ethnicity on the likelihood of a below-knee or above-knee amputation (BKA and AKA, respectively) for CLI secondary to type 2 diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis, peripheral vascular disease, chronic osteomyelitis, and deep soft-tissue infections. RESULTS: For all diagnoses, blacks were 93.3%, and Hispanics were 61.9% more likely to undergo a BKA than white patients (P < 0.001). In addition, black patients had a 133.0% higher risk of an AKA than white patients (P < 0.001). Disparities were greatest with blacks undergoing surgery for CLI secondary to atherosclerosis (BKA odds ratio 2.093; AKA: odds ratio 2.625). Black patients also had an elevated risk of amputation secondary to diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, and deep soft-tissue infections (P < 0.001). DISCUSSION: This nationally representative, cohort-based study demonstrates that notable racial and ethnic disparities for lower extremity amputations persist, with a higher proportion of black and Hispanic patients undergoing amputation compared with limb salvage procedures for atraumatic CLI and infection. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III prognostic.

A propensity-score matched analysis of limb salvage vs amputation for osteosarcoma.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: With recent advances in chemotherapy and surgical techniques, the trend in the treatment of osteosarcoma continues to progress towards limb salvage. However, studies comparing limb salvage with amputation continue to be limited by selection bias and small sample sizes. This study utilized propensity-score matching to minimize potential confounders and selection bias to compare the survival rates in patients with osteosarcoma that were treated with amputation vs limb salvage surgery. METHODS: The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program was utilized to identify all patients with a diagnosis of extremity osteosarcoma. Patients were matched with demographics, tumor characteristics, and treatment information. These variables were then fitted in a multivariate model and hazard ratios (HR) for overall- and disease-specific mortality was calculated. RESULTS: A total of 4107 patients were identified, of which, 1538 were left after propensity-score matching. Older age, Black race, upper extremity location, and higher American joint committee on cancer (AJCC) class were associated with worse overall- and disease-specific mortality rates (P ≤ .0389). Compared with their matched counterparts, patients treated with amputation had higher overall mortality (HR 1.677; P < .0001) and higher disease-specific mortality (HR 1.678; P < .0001). CONCLUSION: Patients whose tumor characteristics preclude limb salvage have significantly higher overall- and disease-specific mortality rates.

Teaching Surgical Model Development in Research by Using Situated Learning and Instructional Scaffolding.

Resources detailing the scope, details, and duration for teaching and learning surgical model development in research are poorly described. Situated learning and instructional scaffolding are useful skill-building tools. Herein, we discuss educational theory in the context of a training paradigm for surgical researchers, using our experience with a nonunion femoral fracture model as an example. Stages of learning include cognitive, associative, and autonomous stages. In surgical training, the cognitive stage involves the acquisition of basic knowledge, including anatomy, surgical approach, instrumentation, and suturing, which can be taught by using books, videos, skeletons, and cadavers. To these basic skills, the associative stage adds advanced techniques-including anesthesia, asepsis, hemostasis, and the full surgical procedure-through mentored nonsurvival surgical experiences. After a mentor has assured competence, trainees perform supervised and then independent survival surgeries to complete the autonomous stage. Through these stages, instructional scaffolding is applied in the context of a situated learning environment in which trainees learn in a layered approach through their own experiences. Thus, the proposed training paradigm is structured to teach trainees how to think and act as surgeons so they can adapt and grow, rather than only to ensure technical competency in a specific model. Development and mastery of complex surgical models may require as long as 6 mo to achieve optimal outcomes, depending on the preexisting skill of the research surgeons, technical difficulty, and the stage of model evolution.

Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Contributes to Mitochondrial Exhaustion of CD8+ T Cells.

Tumor antigen-specific T cells rapidly lose energy and effector function in tumors. The cellular mechanisms by which energy loss and inhibition of effector function occur in tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) are ill-defined, and methods to identify tumor antigen-specific TILs that experience such stress are unknown. Processes upstream of the mitochondria guide cell-intrinsic energy depletion. We hypothesized that a mechanism of T-cell-intrinsic energy consumption was the process of oxidative protein folding and disulfide bond formation that takes place in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) guided by protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) and downstream PERK axis target ER oxidoreductase 1 (ERO1α). To test this hypothesis, we created TCR transgenic mice with a T-cell-specific PERK gene deletion (OT1 + Lckcre+ PERK f/f , PERK KO). We found that PERK KO and T cells that were pharmacologically inhibited by PERK or ERO1α maintained reserve energy and exhibited a protein profile consistent with reduced oxidative stress. These T-cell groups displayed superior tumor control compared with T effectors. We identified a biomarker of ER-induced mitochondrial exhaustion in T cells as mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS), and found that PD-1+ tumor antigen-specific CD8+ TILs express mtROS. In vivo treatment with a PERK inhibitor abrogated mtROS in PD-1+ CD8+ TILs and bolstered CD8+ TIL viability. Combination therapy enabled 100% survival and 71% tumor clearance in a sarcoma mouse model. Our data identify the ER as a regulator of T-cell energetics and indicate that ER elements are effective targets to improve cancer immunotherapy.

Smoking is associated with increased complications and readmission following extensor mechanism repair.

PURPOSE: Extensor mechanism injuries are disabling injuries that require prompt evaluation and treatment and complications are often devastating. While smoking has been shown to increase complications following total joint arthroplasty, this relationship has not yet been established in those undergoing extensor mechanism repair. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the risk of smoking on postoperative complications following extensor mechanism repair. METHODS: The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database was used to identify patients who underwent an extensor mechanism repair from 2005 to 2016. Patients were stratified by tobacco use, as either "current" or "nonsmokers." A multivariate logistic regression was used to control for demographic and comorbid factors while assessing perioperative complications. RESULTS: 5208 patients were identified, and of these, 843 (16.2%) were current smokers. Smokers were younger, male, and with lower BMIs compared to nonsmokers (p = 0.001, p = 0.003, p = 0.002, respectively). They had a higher rate of surgical complications (OR 1.61, CI 1.02-2.52), including deep surgical site infections (OR 3.27, CI 1.03-10.43) and unplanned return to the operating room (OR 2.001, 1.24-3.23). Smokers were more likely to be readmitted within 30 days of surgery (OR 1.78, OR 1.09-2.90). CONCLUSION: Tobacco use is associated with a 1-2% increase in surgical, but not medical, complications following repair of extensor mechanism injuries. Smokers are at higher risk for deep infections, unplanned return to the OR, and hospital readmission. Identifying these patients preoperatively will allow surgeons to accurately counsel patients on perioperative risks. Counseling in preoperative smoking cessation is valuable for optimizing patient outcomes following extensor mechanism repair. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Retrospective comparative study, Level III.

What Leads to Lead: Results of a Nationwide Survey Exploring Attitudes and Practices of Orthopaedic Surgery Residents Regarding Radiation Safety.

BACKGROUND: Excessive radiation to health-care providers has been linked to risks of cancer and cataracts, but its negative effects can be substantially reduced by lead aprons, thyroid shields, and leaded glasses. Hospitals are required to provide education and proper personal protective equipment, yet discrepancies exist between recommendations and compliance. This article presents the results of a survey of U.S. orthopaedic surgery residents concerning attitudes toward radiation exposure and personal protective equipment behavior. METHODS: An invitation to participate in a web-based, anonymous survey was distributed to 46 U.S. allopathic orthopaedic surgery residency programs (1,207 potential resident respondents). The survey was conceptually divided into the following areas: demographic characteristics, training and attitudes concerning occupational hazards, personal protective equipment provision and use, and general safety knowledge. Prevalence ratios (PRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for the association between these characteristics and compliance with thyroid shield or lead gown wear. RESULTS: In this study, 518 surveys were received, with 1 survey excluded because of insufficient response, leaving 517 surveys for analysis (42.8% response rate). Ninety-eight percent of residents believed that personal protective equipment should be provided by the hospital or residency program. However, provision of personal protective equipment was not universal, with 33.8% reporting none and 54.2% reporting provision of a gown and thyroid shield. The prevalence of leaded glasses usage was 21%. Poor lead gown compliance and thyroid shield wear were associated with difficulty finding the corresponding equipment: PR, 2.51 (95% CI, 1.75 to 3.62; p < 0.001) for poor lead gown compliance and PR, 2.14 (95% CI, 1.46 to 3.16; p < 0.0001) for poor thyroid shield wear. Not being provided with personal protective equipment was also significantly associated with low compliance with both lead gowns (PR, 1.47 [95% CI, 1.04 to 2.08]; p = 0.03) and thyroid shields (PR, 1.69 [95% CI, 1.18 to 2.41]; p = 0.004). Respondents from the Southeast, West, or Midwest had lower compliance with lead gown usage. Forgetting was the number 1 reason to not wear a lead apron (42%). CONCLUSIONS: Radiation exposure is associated with increased risk of serious health problems. Our findings identified that the availability of lead personal protective equipment leads to increased compliance among residents surveyed. In addition to yearly occupational hazard training specific to orthopaedic surgery, greater efforts by residency programs and hospitals are needed to improve access to lead personal protective equipment and compliance for orthopaedic residents.

Pedicled Rotational Medial and Lateral Gastrocnemius Flaps: Surgical Technique.

Gastrocnemius flaps have been used for decades to reconstruct defects of the proximal tibia and knee. They have proven to be useful in the soft-tissue reconstruction of defects caused by trauma, tumors, and infections about the knee, and the reconstruction of extensor mechanism discontinuity with and without total joint arthroplasty. The flaps have low failure rates and a distinct proximally based blood supply that allows them to be elevated and rotated up to 15 cm above the level of the knee joint. The vascular anatomy is reproducible because rotational flaps do not require microvascular anastomosis. An understanding of the applied surgical anatomy, approaches, and utility of the gastrocnemius flap makes the technique a useful tool for the orthopaedic surgeon when plastic surgery assistance is not readily available.

The impact of race on the development of severe heterotopic ossification following acetabular fracture surgery.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the association between race on severe heterotopic ossification (HO) following acetabular fracture surgery. DESIGN: Retrospective case control study. SETTING: Level I university trauma centre. METHODS: Two hundred and fifty-three patients who were surgically treated for acetabular fractures were retrospectively evaluated. Postoperative radiographs were evaluated for HO by a blinded musculoskeletal radiologist, and classified based on a modified Brooker classification. RESULTS: Of the 253 patients that met inclusion and exclusion criteria, 175 (69%) were male and 78 (31%) were female. One hundred and fifty-four (61%) patients were Caucasian, and 99 (39%) were African American (AA). Fifty-five (21%) patients developed severe HO. Of those who developed severe HO, 25 were Caucasian (45%), 30 were African American (55%). Forty-one patients (75%) with severe HO were male, and 14 (25%) were female. No statistical differences (p>0.05) were found between groups in terms of age, days to surgery, GCS at presentation, surgical approach, perioperative HO prophylaxis, or AO/OTA fracture classification. The patient population was then stratified by race, gender, and race/gender. AA were more likely than Caucasians to develop severe HO (odds ratio [OR], 2.24; confidence interval [CI], 1.22-4.11). When gender was considered independent of race, no statistical differences (p>0.05) were observed (OR, 1.40; CI, 0.71-2.75). AA males were much more likely to develop severe HO when compared to Caucasian females (OR, 4.4; CI, 1.38-14.06). CONCLUSION: Race is associated with different rates of severe HO formation following acetabular fracture surgery. AA patients are significantly more likely to develop severe HO following acetabular fracture surgery when compared to Caucasian patients.

How much tumor surgery do early-career orthopaedic oncologists perform?

BACKGROUND: There are few data on the types of procedures orthopaedic oncologists perform in their first years of practice. Because fellowships are graduating fellows each year and the number of tumor patients is limited, defining the practice patterns of early-career orthopaedic oncologists may help diminish early employment discontent and enhance workforce discussions. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: The aim of the study was to use the objective case log volumes of a cross-section of early career orthopaedic oncologists to describe (1) the number of operations performed annually; (2) the proportion of tumor, trauma, adult reconstruction, and other operations for individual participants, (3) individual practice characteristics that were associated with the number of tumor procedures; and (4) the sources of satisfaction and challenges in each individual's career and surgical practice. METHODS: Fifteen fellowship-trained orthopaedic oncologists out of a potential pool of 33 (45%) in their first 4 years of practice responded to a survey by submitting complete operative case lists for a 2-year period. We recorded the type of procedure and determined associations between the annual number of tumor operations and total operative caseload, years in practice, and some details of individual practice patterns. Each participant completed a survey regarding practice-related sources of stress and satisfaction. A total of 5611 surgical cases were available for review. For the entire cohort, there were 3303 (59%) tumor procedures, 973 (17%) trauma, 890 (16%) adult reconstruction, and 445 (8%) other. RESULTS: The median annual number of total operations was 214 (range, 63-356) and median annual number of tumor operations was 135 (range, 47-216). The median proportion of tumor operations in an individual practice was 56% (range, 43%-94%). The annual number of tumor operations correlated with the total annual number of operations (r = 0.73, p < 0.001). Sources of stress and satisfaction were similar to the general membership of the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS), apart from more early-career surgeons regarding case volume as important (29 of 104 [28%] of MSTS versus 11 of 15 [73%] of early-career, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The typical early-career orthopaedic tumor surgeon had fewer than 60% of his or her operative procedures directly related to the subject of his or her fellowship training in orthopaedic oncology. Overall, the challenges and rewards of clinical practice are similar to oncologic surgeons later in their career. This study is a first step in assessing early practice characteristics and may be of value to the prospective orthopaedic oncologist, fellowship educators, and the society in workforce discussions. Early-career practice patterns have not been previously presented, to our knowledge, for any subspecialty of orthopaedic surgery, and we hope that this study will stimulate similar efforts throughout the field. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, economic and decision analyses. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

What is the use of imaging before referral to an orthopaedic oncologist? A prospective, multicenter investigation.

BACKGROUND: Patients often receive advanced imaging before referral to an orthopaedic oncologist. The few studies that have evaluated the value of these tests have been single-center studies, and there were large discrepancies in the estimated frequencies of unnecessary use of diagnostic tests. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: (1) Is there regional variation in the use of advanced imaging before referral to an orthopaedic oncologist? (2) Are these prereferral studies helpful to the treating orthopaedic oncologist in making a diagnosis or treatment plan? (3) Are orthopaedic surgeons less likely to order unhelpful studies than other specialties? (4) Are there any tumor or patient characteristics that are associated with the ordering of an unhelpful study? METHODS: We performed an eight-center prospective analysis of patients referred for evaluation by a fellowship-trained orthopaedic oncologist. We recorded patient factors, referral details, advanced imaging performed, and presumptive diagnosis. The treating orthopaedic oncologist determined whether each study was helpful in the diagnosis or treatment of the patient based on objective and subjective criteria used in prior investigations. We analyzed the data using bivariate methods and logistic regression to determine regional variation and risk factors predictive of unhelpful advanced imaging. Of the 371 participants available for analysis, 301 (81%) were referred with an MRI, CT scan, bone scan, ultrasound, or positron emission tomography scan. RESULTS: There were no regional differences in the use of advanced imaging (range of patients presenting with advanced imaging 66%-88% across centers, p = 0.164). One hundred thirteen patients (30%) had at least one unhelpful study; non-MRI advanced imaging was more likely to be unhelpful than MRIs (88 of 129 [68%] non-MRI imaging versus 46 of 263 [17%] MRIs [p < 0.001]). Orthopaedic surgeons were no less likely than nonorthopaedic surgeons to order unhelpful studies before referral to an orthopaedic oncologist (56 of 179 [31%] of patients referred by orthopaedic surgeons versus 35 of 119 [29%] referred by primary care providers and 22 of 73 [30%] referred by nonorthopaedic specialists, p = 0.940). After controlling for potential confounding variables, benign bone lesions had an increased odds of referral with an unhelpful study (59 of 145 [41%] of benign bone tumors versus 54 of 226 [24%] of soft tissue tumors and malignant bone tumors; odds ratio, 2.80; 95% confidence interval, 1.68-4.69, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: We found no evidence that the proportion of patients referred with advanced imaging varied dramatically by region. Studies other than MRI were likely to be considered unhelpful and should not be routinely ordered by referring physicians. Diligent education of orthopaedic surgeons and primary care physicians in the judicious use of advanced imaging in benign bone tumors may help mitigate unnecessary imaging. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, diagnostic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.