Does living at high altitude increase the risk of bleeding events after total knee arthroplasty? A retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: Post-operative bleeding after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a frequent cause of post-operative complications. This study compared blood loss and indicators of coagulation and fibrinolysis between TKA patients living at low or high altitudes. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 120 patients at our institution who underwent primary TKA from May 2019 to March 2020, and we divided them into those living in areas about 500 m or > 3000 m above sea level. We compared the primary outcome of total blood loss between them. We also compared them in terms of several secondary outcomes: coagulation and fibrinolysis parameters, platelet count, reduction in hemoglobin, hidden blood loss, intra-operative blood loss, transfusion rate, and incidence of thromboembolic events and other complications. RESULTS: Total blood loss was significantly higher in the high-altitude group than in the low-altitude group (mean, 748.2 mL [95% CI, 658.5-837.9] vs 556.6 mL [95% CI, 496.0-617.1]; p = 0.001). The high-altitude group also showed significantly longer activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time, and thrombin time before surgery and on post-operative day one, as well as increased levels of fibrinogen/fibrin degradation product on post-operative days one and three. Ecchymosis was significantly more frequent in the high-altitude group (41.7 vs 21.7%; relative risk (RR) = 1.923 [95% CI, 1.091-3.389]; p = 0.019). The two groups showed similar transfusion rates, and none of the patients experienced venous thromboembolism, pulmonary embolism, or infection. CONCLUSION: High altitude may alter coagulation and fibrinolysis parameters in a way that increases risk of blood loss after TKA. Such patients may benefit from special management to avoid bleeding events.

Core Decompression Prevents Progression of Asymptomatic Type C Osteonecrosis of Femoral Head According to the Japanese Investigation Committee Classification: A Retrospective Study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether core decompression could prevent progression of asymptomatic type C osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) according to the Japanese Investigation Committee (JIC) classification. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included 124 hips (117 patients) with asymptomatic type C ONFH. Seventy-one hips (67 patients) received core decompression (core decompression group) and 53 hips (50 patients) received no surgical treatment (control group). Clinical and radiological follow-up was conducted at 6 and 12 months, then annually until 5 years. Clinical outcomes were evaluated in terms of the Oxford hip score and UCLA Activity Level rating. Radiological outcomes were evaluated using X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging. Survival analysis was performed based on collapse of the femoral head as the first endpoint and total hip arthroplasty (THA) as the second endpoint. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in clinical outcomes between the core decompression group and the control group within 2 years after surgery. Patients in the core decompression group had significantly better Oxford hip score and UCLA Activity Level from year 3 to the end of follow-up (P < 0.05). In year 5, the absolute difference in Oxford hip score (5.3 points) exceeded the reported minimal clinically important difference (MCID, 5.2 points). In years 3-5, the absolute difference in UCLA Activity Level rating (0.95 points, 0.95 points, and 0.99 points, respectively) exceeded the reported MCID (0.92 points). By 5-year follow-up, significantly fewer patients in the core decompression group had experienced femoral head collapse (40.8% vs 62.3%, P = 0.011) or received THA (26.8% vs 45.3%, p = 0.022). CONCLUSIONS: Core decompression can prevent progression of asymptomatic type C ONFH according to the JIC classification, leading to better medium-term hip function and activity levels than no surgical treatment. Core decompression is recommended for early intervention against asymptomatic type C ONFH.

[Distribution and drug resistance of pathogens causing periprosthetic infections after hip and knee arthroplasty].

OBJECTIVE: To study the distribution and drug resistance of pathogens causing periprosthetic infections after hip and knee arthroplasty, and to formulate prevention and treatment strategies for drug-resistant bacteria. METHODS: The data of 146 cases of periprosthetic infection after primary hip and knee arthroplasty from 2010 to 2015 were collected, including 111 cases of periprosthetic infection after hip arthroplasty and 35 cases of periprosthetic infection after knee arthroplasty. The culture positive rate, pathogenic bacteria composition and drug resistance rate were counted over the years, and the change trend of pathogen distribution and drug resistance was analyzed. RESULTS: One hundredand eight strains of pathogenic bacteria were detected in 146 cases, and the positive rate of culture was 73.97%. Gram positive bacteria accounted for 55.48%, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus accounted for 25.34% and 15.07% respectively. Gram negative bacteria accounted for 13.01%, including Enterobacter cloacae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli. There were 4 cases of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection and mixed infection. The results of culture over the years showed that the constituent ratio of Gram positive bacteria had an increasing trend, fluctuating from 39.13% to 76.47%. The results of drug sensitivity showed that the pathogens were highly resistant to ß-lactams, quinolones, clindamycin and gentamicin, and the drug resistance rate was increasing, but it was still sensitive to rifampicin, nitrofurantoin, tigecycline, linezolid and vancomycin. CONCLUSION: Gram positive bacteria are the main pathogens of periprosthetic infection, and the proportion is increasing gradually.The pathogens have high resistance to many kinds of antibiotics, and the resistance rate is still increasing. To strengthen the monitoring of the distribution and drug resistance of pathogenic bacteria is helpful to grasp its change trend and formulate targeted prevention and control strategies.

The effect of tourniquet uses on total blood loss, early function, and pain after primary total knee arthroplasty: a prospective, randomized controlled trial.

AIMS: The aim of this study was to examine whether tourniquet use can improve perioperative blood loss, early function recovery, and pain after primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in the setting of multiple-dose intravenous tranexamic acid. METHODS: This was a prospective, randomized clinical trial including 180 patients undergoing TKA with multiple doses of intravenous tranexamic acid. One group was treated with a tourniquet during the entire procedure, the second group received a tourniquet during cementing, and the third group did not receive a tourniquet. All patients received the same protocol of intravenous tranexamic acid (20 mg/kg) before skin incision, and three and six hours later (10 mg/kg). The primary outcome measure was perioperative blood loss. Secondary outcome measures were creatine kinase (CK), CRP, interleukin-6 (IL-6), visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score, limb swelling ratio, quadriceps strength, straight leg raising, range of motion (ROM), American Knee Society Score (KSS), and adverse events. RESULTS: The mean total blood loss was lowest in the no-tourniquet group at 867.32 ml (SD 201.11), increased in the limited-tourniquet group at 1024.35 ml (SD 176.35), and was highest in the tourniquet group at 1,213.00 ml (SD 211.48). The hidden blood loss was lowest in the no-tourniquet group (both p < 0.001). There was less mean intraoperative blood loss in the tourniquet group (77.48 ml (SD 24.82)) than in the limited-tourniquet group (137.04 ml (SD 26.96)) and the no-tourniquet group (212.99 ml (SD 56.35); both p < 0.001). Patients in the tourniquet group showed significantly higher levels of muscle damage and inflammation biomarkers such as CK, CRP, and IL-6 than the other two groups (p < 0.05). Outcomes for VAS pain scores, limb swelling ratio, quadriceps strength, straight leg raising, ROM, and KSS were significantly better in the no-tourniquet group at three weeks postoperatively (p < 0.05), but there were no significant differences at three months. No significant differences were observed among the three groups with respect to transfusion rate, thrombotic events, or the length of hospital stay. CONCLUSION: Patients who underwent TKA with multiple doses of intravenous tranexamic acid but without a tourniquet presented lower total blood loss and hidden blood loss, and they showed less postoperative inflammation reaction, less muscle damage, lower VAS pain score, and better early knee function. Our results argue for not using a tourniquet during TKA.Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2020;9(6):322-332.

Intravenous Tranexamic Acid for Reducing Perioperative Blood Loss During Revision Surgery for Vancouver Type B Periprosthetic Femoral Fractures After Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Retrospective Study.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the efficacy and safety of intravenous tranexamic acid for reducing perioperative blood loss and allogeneic blood transfusions in revision surgery for Vancouver type B periprosthetic femoral fractures after total hip arthroplasty (THA). METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 129 patients who underwent revision surgeries because of Vancouver type B periprosthetic femoral fractures from January 2008 to September 2018. Patients were divided into two groups according to whether they received intravenous tranexamic acid (n = 72) or not (n = 57). The two groups were compared in terms of estimated intraoperative blood loss, visible blood loss, hidden blood loss, the volume of allogeneic blood transfusion and the incidence of symptomatic venous thromboembolism (VTE). Patients were also compared depending on the Vancouver classification (Vancouver type B1, B2, and B3). RESULTS: Regardless of the subtype of Vancouver classification, patients who received tranexamic acid showed significantly lower estimated intraoperative blood loss, visible blood loss, hidden blood loss, and allogeneic blood transfusion volume. Use of tranexamic acid was not associated with significant changes in the incidence of postoperative symptomatic VTE. Similar results were obtained with subgroups of patients who had the Vancouver type B1, B2, or B3 periprosthetic femoral fractures. CONCLUSIONS: The administration of intravenous tranexamic acid can safely and effectively reduce perioperative blood loss and allogeneic blood transfusions in revision surgery for Vancouver type B periprosthetic femoral fractures, without increasing the risk of symptomatic VTE.

miR-140 Attenuates the Progression of Early-Stage Osteoarthritis by Retarding Chondrocyte Senescence.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a major cause of joint pain and disability, and chondrocyte senescence is a key pathological process in OA and may be a target of new therapeutics. MicroRNA-140 (miR-140) plays a protective role in OA, but little is known about its epigenetic effect on chondrocyte senescence. In this study, we first validated the features of chondrocyte senescence characterized by increased cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase and the expression of senescence-associated ß-galactosidase (SA-ßGal), p16INK4a, p21, p53, and γH2AX in human knee OA. Then, we revealed in interleukin 1ß (IL-1ß)-induced OA chondrocytes in vitro that pretransfection with miR-140 effectively inhibited the expression of SA-ßGal, p16INK4a, p21, p53, and γH2AX. Furthermore, in vivo results from trauma-induced early-stage OA rats showed that intra-articularly injected miR-140 could rapidly reach the chondrocyte cytoplasm and induce molecular changes similar to the in vitro results, resulting in a noticeable alleviation of OA progression. Finally, bioinformatics analysis predicted the potential targets of miR-140 and a mechanistic network by which miR-140 regulates chondrocyte senescence. Collectively, miR-140 can effectively attenuate the progression of early-stage OA by retarding chondrocyte senescence, contributing new evidence of the involvement of miR-mediated epigenetic regulation of chondrocyte senescence in OA pathogenesis.

Effects of Total Hip Arthroplasty on Axial Alignment of the Lower Limb in Patients with Unilateral Developmental Hip Dysplasia (Crowe type IV).

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of total hip arthroplasty on axial alignment of the lower limb in adults with unilateral developmental hip dysplasia (Crowe type IV). METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed medical records of 50 adults who underwent total hip arthroplasty, in which the acetabular cup was placed in the anatomical position. The following parameters were measured before surgery, immediately after surgery, and two years later: mechanical axis deviation (MAD), tibiofemoral angle (TFA), femoral offset, hip-knee-ankle angle (HKA), mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (LDFA), mechanical medial proximal tibial angle, height of medial femoral condyle, height of lateral femoral condyle, and leg lengthening. Length of the resected femoral segment was also recorded from medical records. RESULTS: Preoperative MAD, TFA, HKA, and LDFA of the ipsilateral lower limb showed significant valgus deformity. MAD of the ipsilateral lower limb and valgus inclination were significantly smaller immediately after surgery than before, while TFA, HKA, femoral offset, and LDFA were significantly larger (P < 0.05). These parameters did not differ significantly between immediately after surgery and two years later (P > 0.05). Ipsilateral extremities were extended by a mean of 2.54 cm (range, 0 to 5.35 cm). The mean length of the femoral resected segment was 3.56 cm (range, 2.03 to 5.74 cm). The contralateral lower limb showed marginally smaller MAD and medial proximal tibial angle after surgery than before, but larger LDFA, TAF, and HKA. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with developmental hip dysplasia who underwent total hip arthroplasty with placement of the acetabular component at the level of the anatomic hip center, axial alignment of the ipsilateral lower limb was immediately altered, and valgus inclination was significantly reduced. The procedure only slightly altered the axial alignment of the contralateral lower limb.

Long-term efficacy of repeated sodium hyaluronate injections in adult patients with Kashin-Beck disease of the knee.

AIM: To prospectively evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of repeated sodium hyaluronate injections for the treatment of knee pain due to Kashin-Beck disease (KBD). METHODS: A total of 85 patients with KBD-based knee pain were treated with two cycles of a 5-week course of sodium hyaluronate and received clinical assessments with a follow-up period of 24 months after the first cycle. The primary efficacy measure was the visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score. The second efficacy measure included the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores; and the patients' and physicians' global assessments. Tolerability was evaluated based on adverse events (AEs). RESULTS: Seventy-one patients (83.5%) completed the final study. The VAS was significantly reduced from 65.06 ± 12.21 mm (mean ± standard deviation [SD]) at baseline to 30.17 ± 11.92 mm at 6 months and was maintained for 24 months (35.79 ± 7.92 mm, P < 0.01 vs baseline). This finding was supported by the secondary variables (the WOMAC A, B and C scores; the total WOMAC scores; and the global assessments of the patients and their physicians at months 6, 12, 18 and 24). The overall incidence of AEs during the first and second cycles was 8 (9.4%) and 7 patients (8.2%), respectively. No serious AEs were reported. CONCLUSIONS: Repeated once yearly cycles of intra-articular sodium hyaluronate injections may improve knee KBD symptoms during the inbetween cycle period as well as exert a significant carry-over effect for at least 1 year after the repeated cycle. Other randomized double-blind studies are needed to confirm the findings from our study.

Comparison of cortisol and inflammatory response between aged and middle-aged patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty: a prospective observational study.

BACKGROUND: To investigate the differences in the perioperative serum cortisol, C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels between aged and middle-aged patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA). METHODS: Sixty patients (30 aged and 30 middle-aged) undergoing THA for osteoarthritis between August 2016 and January 2017 participated in this study. Blood samples were collected preoperatively and at 6 hours, 24 hours and 3 days after surgery to measure the cortisol, CRP and IL-6 concentrations. The clinical outcomes were assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score and Harris hip score (HHS). RESULTS: No significant differences were found between the two groups before the operation in the cortisol, IL-6 and CRP levels; the VAS score; or the HHS. Cortisol was significantly lower at 6 hours after surgery in the aged group than in the middle-aged group (P < 0.05). IL-6 at 6 and 24 hours after surgery, CRP at 3 days after surgery and the VAS score at 6 and 24 hours after surgery in the aged group were significantly higher than those in the middle-aged group (P < 0.05). In the aged group, weak correlations were found between the cortisol concentration 6 hours after THA and the IL-6 level 24 hours after THA (r = -0.37, P = 0.04) and between the IL-6 level 6 hours after THA and the VAS score 24 hours after THA (r = 0.42, P = 0.02). CONCLUSION: Aged patients showed lower cortisol levels at 6 hours after surgery and higher IL-6 levels at 6 and 24 hours after surgery than middle-aged patients undergoing THA.

Comparison of Early Functional Recovery After Total Hip Arthroplasty Using a Direct Anterior or Posterolateral Approach: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Controversy exists as to whether early functional outcomes differ after total hip arthroplasty performed using the direct anterior approach (DAA) or the posterolateral approach (PLA). METHODS: One hundred twenty patients were enrolled in this study and were divided into 2 groups based on surgical approach. Group A included patients who had a total hip arthroplasty with a DAA, whereas group B included those with a PLA. Patients were randomized into the DAA or PLA groups (n = 60), and perioperative and postoperative outcomes were recorded. RESULTS: When compared with the PLA, the DAA had a shorter incision length (9.1 vs 13.1 cm; P < .01), shorter hospital stay (2.8 vs 3.3 days, P = .04), and lower self-reported pain. Both serum inflammatory and muscle damage markers were lower in the DAA group. However, the PLA had shorter operative times (65.5 vs 83.3 min, P = .03) and less intraoperative blood loss (123.8 vs 165.9 mL, P = .04). The DAA had significantly lower variance in cup inclination and anteversion. Similar rates of intraoperative complications were identified in the 2 groups. The DAA was associated with better functional recovery at 3 months based on the Harris hip score, University of California Los Angeles activity score, and gait analysis; however, functional recovery at 6 months was similar between the 2 groups. CONCLUSION: We found functional advantages in early recovery after the DAA compared with the PLA. The DAA can offer rapid functional recovery with less muscle damage, greater pain relief, and lower variance in cup inclination and anteversion. However, no functional difference was found at 6 months follow-up.

Intravenous Combined with Topical Administration of Tranexamic Acid in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE: Although there are still some controversies, large previous studies have confirmed that intravenous (i.v.) tranexamic acid (TXA) can effectively reduce blood loss and transfusions in total hip arthroplasty (THA) without increasing the risk of deep venous thrombosis. However, few studies have investigated the combination of i.v. and topical application of TXA in primary THA. The purpose of our current study is to examine whether i.v. combined with topical administration of TXA decreases postoperative blood loss and transfusion rates after THA. METHODS: From December 2013 to May 2014, all adult patients undergoing primary THA at our arthroplasty center were considered for inclusion in the present study. Included patients were randomly assigned to two groups by computer-generated list number: a TXA group and a placebo group. Patients in the TXA group received i.v. (15 mg/kg) combined with topical administration (1.0 g) of TXA during the THA procedure, and patients in the other group received the same dosage of normal saline both i.v. and topically. Our primary outcome measures were total blood loss (calculated using Gross's equation), hemoglobin, hematocrit and platelet concentration changes on the third postoperative day, the amount of drainage, the amount of intraoperative blood loss, the frequency of transfusion, and the number of blood units transfused. Secondary outcome measures were the length of postoperative stay, range of hip motion (measured by goniometer), Harris hip scores (HHS), and any perioperative complications or events such as infection, DVT or PE. Range of motion and HHS were measured at 3 week follow-up and compared with preoperative values. RESULTS: This trial included 100 patients (50 in each group). Patients in the TXA group had significantly higher postoperative hemoglobin (103 vs 87.7 g/dL, P < 0.01), lower hemoglobin changes (32.2 vs 44.9 g/dL, P < 0.01), higher postoperative hematocrit (0.32 vs 0.27 L/L, P < 0.01), lower hematocrit changes (0.1 vs 0.14 L/L, P < 0.01), lower total blood loss (822 vs 1100 mL, P = 0.004), lower drainage (117.8 vs 242.4 mL, P < 0.01), lower intraoperative blood loss (193.8 vs 288.2 mL, P < 0.01), and lower transfusion rate (2% vs 34%, P < 0.01) compared with those in the placebo group. No statistical difference was found in postoperative platelets between the two groups. There were no differences in perioperative complications or venous thromboembolism (VTE) events. CONCLUSIONS: The combined administration of i.v. and topical TXA resulted in a clinically relevant reduction in blood loss, compared with placebo group. No thromboembolic complications were observed. This randomized controlled trial supports the combined i.v. and topical administration of TXA in primary THA.

[Incidence and anatomic distribution of venous thromboembolism following primary total hip and knee arthroplasty: a prospective observational study].

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the incidence and anatomic distribution of venous thrombosis after total hip and knee arthroplasty by using the data of the patients with primary total hip and knee replacement. METHODS: From December 2013 to December 2014, total hip and knee arthroplasty were performed in 1 686 patients, of which 928 were THA and 758 were TKA. Before and after discharge, all patients were routinely performed double lower limb vein color Doppler ultrasound, the conventional use of anti fibrinolytic drugs, postoperative anticoagulation for 14 d. The types and distribution of thrombosis after operation were statistical analysis. RESULTS: Among 928 cases of primary total hip arthroplasty, there were 30 cases of thrombosis, 27 cases of isolated muscle vein thrombosis, followed by the involvement of the anterior or posterior tibial vein thrombosis, no central thrombosis. Among 758 cases of primary total knee arthroplasty, there were 87 cases of thrombosis, 81 cases peripheral thrombosis, 4 cases of thrombus of center type, the remaining 2 cases for mixed thrombus;74 patients with thrombosis involving a single vein, 65 cases involved muscle vein, 4 cases of femoral vein, 3 cases of posterior tibial vein, 2 cases of superficial vein; 13 cases of thrombosis involving multiple veins, involving muscle vein, posterior tibial veins, the peroneal veins and popliteal vein in 2 or 3 branches. The comparison results showed that the incidence of thrombosis after total knee arthroplasty was higher, the difference was statistically significant (P<0.001), and more prone to central thrombosis and multiple venous involvement. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of thrombosis in patients with primary hip and knee replacement is low, and the incidence and anatomic distribution of the patients with primary hip and knee replacement are different.

[Acetabular morphological analysis in patients with high dislocated DDH using three-dimensional surface reconstruction technique].

OBJECTIVE: To simulate acetabular morphology and perform acetabular quantitative analysis in high dislocated developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) patients using three-dimensional (3D) surface reconstruction technique, in order to understand the acetabular anatomic features and develop operative strategies for acetabular reconstruction. METHODS: 3D pelvic images were reconstructed by Mimics software from CT data of 13 patients (13 hips) with high developmental DDH and 13 normal persons (26 hips). True acetabular superior-inferior diameter, anterior-posterior diameter, acetabular depth, medial wall thickness, abduction angle and anteversion angle were measured and compared between the two groups of participants. RESULTS: Irregular acetabular shape was found in high dislocated group, showing a triangle with wide upper and narrow lower. The acetabular quantitative analysis revealed (38.29 +/- 2.71) mm superior-inferior diameter, (21.74 +/- 5.33) mm anterior-posterior diameter, (15.50 +/- 2.93) mm acetabular depth, (6.80 +/- 2.97) mm medial wall thickness, (49.29 +/- 7.40) degrees abduction angle and (23.82 +/- 11.21) degrees anteversion angle in high dislocated patients. The superior-inferior diameter, anterior-posterior diameter and acetabular depth of high dislocated patients were significantly smaller than those of the normal contirols (P<0.05). However, the medial wall thickness, abduction angle and anteversion angle of high dislocated patients were significantly bigger than those of the normal controls (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: 3D reconstruction technique can restore true acetabular morphology and perform quantitative analysis. Compared with normal controls, high dislocated DDH patients have acetabular features: irregular shape, lower opening, higher medial wall and bigger abduction and anteversion angles. Joint arthroplasty surgery in high dislocated DDH patients needs to look at these acetabular features.

Risk factors for venous thromboembolism of total hip arthroplasty and total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review of evidences in ten years.

BACKGROUND: Risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE) of total joint arthroplasty (TJA) have been examined by many studies. A comprehensive systematic review of recent findings of high evidence level in this topic is needed. METHODS: We conducted a PubMed search for papers published between 2003 and 2013 that provided level-I and level-II evidences on risk factors for VTE of TJA. For each potential factors examined in at least three papers, we summarize the the number of the papers and confirmed the direction of statistically significant associations, e.g. "risk factor" "protective factor" or "controversial factor". RESULTS: Fifty-four papers were included in the systematic review. Risk factors found to be associated with VTE of both total hip arthroplasty and total knee arthroplasty included older age, female sex, higher BMI, bilateral surgery, surgery time > 2 hours. VTE history was found as a VTE risk factor of THA but an controversial factor of TKA. Cemented fixation as compared to cementless fixation was found as a risk factor for VTE only of TKA. TKA surgery itself was confirmed as a VTE risk factor compared with THA surgery. CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review of high level evidences published in recent ten years identified a range of potential factors associated with VTE risk of total joint arthroplasty. These results can provide informations in this topic for doctors, patients and researchers.

The influence of body mass index on the outcomes of primary total knee arthroplasty.

PURPOSE: The body mass index (BMI) is widely recognized as a prognostic factor in multiple operations; however, the relationship between the BMI and outcomes following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is extensively debated. We aimed to evaluate the effect of the BMI at different cutoff values on the outcomes following primary TKA. METHODS: Electronic databases (PubMed/Medline, CENTRAL, Embase and Web of Science) were systematically searched for studies investigating the association between the BMI and outcomes following primary TKA. Two investigators independently reviewed studies for eligibility, assessed the study quality using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and extracted the data. A meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager software. RESULTS: Twenty-eight articles including a total of 20,988 TKAs were identified. The postoperative Knee Society Score appeared to trend lower in obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m(2)) patients than in non-obese (BMI < 30 kg/m(2)) patients. The meta-analysis showed that revision with follow-up ≥5 years, any infection, superficial infection and deep vein thrombosis occurred statistically more frequently in obese patients, whereas a deep infection occurred statistically more frequently in morbidly obese (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m(2)) patients than in non-obese patients. No differences in aseptic loosening with follow-up ≥5 years, pulmonary embolism and perioperative mortality rates were found between obese and non-obese patients. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with a BMI ≥ 30 kg/m(2) are at a higher risk of lower functional scores and developing complications following primary TKA. It appears reasonable to encourage obese patients to lose weight before selective TKA. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic study, Level III.

The long-term efficacy and tolerability of hyaluronic acid in adult patients with Kashin-Beck disease of the knee.

The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate the long-term efficacy and tolerability of hyaluronic acid (HA) for the treatment of knee pain due to Kashin-Beck disease (KBD). A total of 113 patients with KBD-based knee pain were treated with a 3-week course of HA. Clinical assessments were performed for each patient at 0 (baseline), 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 24, and 52 weeks. The primary efficacy measure was the visual analog scale (VAS) pain score. The secondary efficacy measures included the WOMAC A (pain), B (stiffness), and C (function) scores; the total WOMAC score; and the global assessments by patients and physicians. Tolerability was evaluated based on adverse events (AEs) and physician reporting. The VAS was significantly reduced within the first 4 weeks of treatment, and the reduction was maintained over 52 weeks (p < 0.001 at each endpoint). These data were supported by the secondary variables WOMAC A (all p < 0.001), WOMAC B (p = 0.002, 0.003, and 0.019, respectively), WOMAC C (all p < 0.001), total WOMAC (all p < 0.001), and the global assessments by patients and physicians at weeks 12, 24, and 52. No serious AEs were reported, and the overall incidence of AEs was 10.6 %. This study suggests that the intra-articular injection of HA is effective and well tolerated for the treatment of knee pain due to KBD as HA therapy resulted in an improvement of symptoms for at least 52 weeks. Additional randomized double-blind studies are needed to confirm our findings.

[Reliability and Validity of Function Score for Adult Tibetans with Kashin Beck Disease in Aba Tibetan Autonomous Area in Sichuan Province].

OBJECTIVE: To validate the function score for adult Tibetans with Kashin-Beck disease (FSAT- KBD) measuring daily life and work functional status of KBD patients. METHODS: From September to October 2010, 352 adult KBD patients in Rangtang County of Aba Tibetan autonomous region were invited to complete FSAT-KBD. The internal consistency of FSAT-KBD was assessed using Cronbach's alpha coefficients. Principal component analysis with varimax rotation was performed to explore factor structure of the instrument, with item-domain correlations being examined using Spearman's rank correlation tests. Discriminant validity of the FSAT-KBD was assessed by comparing scores of the respondents with different ages and different functional status. Convergent validity of the FSAT-KBD was assessed through a comparison with the medical outcomes study short form health survey (SF-12) and visual analogue scale (VAS). RESULTS: 338 KBD patients (a response rate of 96.0%) completed the questionnaire in an average of (3.2 +/- 1.6) min. The instrument achieved a Cronbach's alpha of 0.945, with item-to-domain correlations exceeding 0.0. Two latent factors were extracted, which explained 72.8% of the total variance. The factor structure fitted well with our conceptual hypothesis. Respondents with different age, duration of suffering and number of affected joints had different FSAT-KBD scores. The FSAT-KBD results were correlated with those of SF-12 and VAS. CONCLUSION: FSAT-KBD is a reliable and valid instrument for measuring daily functional status of adult KBD patients in Aba Tibetan autonomous area in China.

Extensively coated non-modular stem used in two-stage revision for infected total hip arthroplasty: mid-term to long-term follow-up.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the rate of curing the infection and mid- to long-term outcomes of using extensively coated non-modular stems in two-stage revision for infected total hip arthroplasty (THA). METHODS: The clinical data of 33 patients (33 hips) in whom extensively coated non-modular stems had been used in two-stage revision THA for deep infection were retrospectively analyzed. All operations received two-stage reimplantation, which included resection arthroplasty, thorough debridement, insertion of a hand-molded antibiotic-impregnated cement spacer with stainless steel reinforcement, a course of intravenous antibiotics, and delayed reimplantation. Microorganism-specific antibiotics had been chosen according to the results of microbiological studies performed postoperatively. All patients received i.v. antimicrobial therapy for 4 weeks and oral antibiotics to which their organisms were sensitive for a further 6 weeks. Harris hip score (HHS) and plain X-ray films were used to perform clinical and radiological evaluations. RESULTS: During follow-up for a minimum of 5 years, no reinfection or loosening were found. Cultures of samples taken during the second stage were all negative for infection. The mean HHS improved from 42 preoperative to 89 at the final follow-up. All granular bones had fused well with the host bones by 12 months after the surgery. CONCLUSION: Using extensively coated non-modular stems combined with intramedullary allografts in two-stage revision for treating infected THAs can achieve satisfactory outcomes.

Three-dimensional computerized preoperative planning of total hip arthroplasty with high-riding dislocation developmental dysplasia of the hip.

OBJECTIVE: To assess whether computed tomography (CT)-based 3-dimensional (3D) computerized pre-operative planning is accurate and reliable in patients with high-riding dislocation developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA). METHODS: Between September 2009 and February 2011, a prospective study with an inbuilt means of comparing predictive techniques in 20 patients (20 hips) with high-riding dislocation DDH was undertaken. All patients had pre- and post-operative CT scans, data from which were transferred digitally to Mimics software. 3D pre-operative planning to predict the acetabular component size, hip rotation center position and acetabular component coverage was performed using Mimics software. The results and post-operative course were compared with those of the traditional acetate templating technique. RESULTS: Using 3D computerized planning, 14/20 components (70%) were predicted exactly and 6/20 (30%) within one size, whereas with the conventional acetate templating technique, 5/20 components (25%) were predicted exactly, 9/20 (45%) within one size and 6/20 (30%) within two or more sizes. There was a strong correlation between the 3D computerized planned acetabular component size, hip rotation center distance, acetabular component host coverage and that found postoperatively. Five patients were considered to need structural bone graft on the basis of 3D computerized planning; this was highly coincident with the intraoperative findings in all five cases. CONCLUSION: CT-based 3D computerized pre-operative planning using Mimics software is an accurate and reliable technique for patients with high-riding dislocation DDH undergoing THA.

Comparison between drainage and non-drainage after total hip arthroplasty in Chinese subjects.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the difference between drainage and non-drainage after total hip arthroplasty (THA) in Chinese subjects by evaluating post-operative complications and joint function. METHODS: One hundred and sixty-eight patients undergoing THA were randomly allocated into drainage (83 patients) and non-drainage groups (85 patients). All surgeries were performed by one surgical team using the same pre-, intra-, and postoperative techniques. Measured items included: hemoglobin (Hb), superficial and deep wound infection, volume of blood transfusion, wound hematoma thickness, range of motion (ROM) of the hip, wound healing time, ecchymosis and tension vesicles around the wound. RESULTS: Early after THA, the Hb decreased significantly in the drainage group. There was no significant difference between non-drainage and drainage groups in need for or volume of blood transfusions (9.6% vs 8.2%, P = 0.100; 3.8 units vs 2.9 units, P = 0.089, respectively). In the non-drainage group, the incidence of superficial infection, ecchymosis and tension vesicles was significantly higher than in the drainage group (10.6% vs 2.4%, P = 0.031; 12.9% vs 3.6%, P = 0.026; 16.5% vs 4.8%, P = 0.013, respectively). In addition, the non-drainage group had a greater volume of hematomas (P = 0.000). Patients in the non-drainage group had smaller ROMs early after surgery but the final ROMs did not differ significantly between groups. No deep infection occurred in either group. CONCLUSION: Non-drainage may reduce postoperative blood loss but has no benefits regarding blood transfusion or deep infection. It may cause more post-operative complications because of restriction of early postoperative exercise by pain and swelling. Therefore we suggest routine use of drainage after THA.