Improved outcomes with perioperative dietitian-led interventions in patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty: A systematic review.

Background: Nutritional assessment is important for optimization of patients undergoing elective total joint arthroplasty (TJA). Preoperative nutritional intervention is a potentially modifiable optimization target, but the outcomes of such intervention are not well-studied. The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of nutritional interventions on elective TJA outcomes. Methods: Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were utilized to perform a systematic review of the Ovid Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library systems. Included studies were comprised of patients greater than 18 years of age undergoing a primary unilateral TJA who received a perioperative dietitian-led intervention. Data analyzed included nutritional intervention protocol, patient demographics, length of stay (LOS), postoperative labs and complications, among others. Results: Our initial search identified a total of 1766 articles. Four studies representing 5006 patients met inclusion criteria. The studies utilized a protein-dominant diet, with or without a carbohydrate solution accompanied by dietitian assessment or education. The 4 studies found that the intervention group had significantly decreased LOS, fewer albumin infusions, less wound drainage, lower rates of hypocalcemia and hypokalemia, reduced C-reactive protein (CRP) values, improved time out of bed, and decreased overall costs. Conclusion: The findings support the potential benefits of perioperative dietitian-led intervention on key outcomes for patients undergoing primary TJA. Surgeons should consider nutritional intervention in their preoperative optimization protocols. Future studies could help elucidate the optimum nutritional regimens and monitoring for idealized intervention and surgical timing. Prospero registration number: CRD4202338494.

Patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) as primary and secondary outcomes in total hip and knee arthroplasty randomized controlled trials: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Significant heterogeneity exists regarding patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) used in total hip (THA) and knee (TKA) arthroplasty randomized controlled trials (RCTs). This study investigates the PROMs used as primary and secondary outcomes in contemporary arthroplasty RCTs. METHODS: A literature search identified THA and TKA RCTs that were published in top ten impact factor orthopaedic journals from 2017 to 2021. Screening identified 241 trials: 76 THA, 157 TKA, and eight combined. Data were extracted to identify PROMs utilized as either primary or secondary outcomes and the time period of measurement. RESULTS: Visual Analog Scale (VAS) Pain was the most reported primary PROM in THA (9.2%) and TKA (22.9%) trials. This was followed by Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) Pain (7.9%) and the Harris Hip score (6.6%) in THA trials and NRS Pain (4.5%) and the Knee Society score (4.5%) in TKA trials. Many THA (37.0%) and TKA (52.1%) trials did not clearly specify primary outcome time points. Only pain scales were reported at time points less than one week, while various joint-specific functional outcomes were reported at later time points. As secondary outcomes, the Harris Hip score (28.9%) was most common in THA trials and the Knee Society score (26.1%) was most common in TKA trials. Indeterminate primary or secondary outcomes were reported in 18.2% of studies. CONCLUSIONS: Contemporary THA and TKA trials exhibit heterogeneity of PROMs as study outcomes after the first postoperative week. Our findings highlight the need for consensus in PROM reporting and better methodological reporting to improve the interpretability of RCT outcomes. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42022337255.

Hydroxyapatite-Coated Femoral Stems in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty: An Updated Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Most primary total hip arthroplasties (THAs) performed in the United States utilize cementless fixation with porous or hydroxyapatite (HA) coating. A previous meta-analysis comparing HA-coated versus non-HA-coated stems in primary THA published in 2013 found no significant difference between the 2. However, an updated analysis of the current literature is needed to assess the potential benefit of HA-coated stems in primary THA. METHODS: Various libraries were searched through May 2022 according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies included were randomized controlled trials comparing HA-coated femoral stems to non-HA-coated stems in primary THA. Outcomes included Harris Hip Score (HHS), endosteal bone formation, radiolucent lines, linear wear rate, revision for aseptic loosening, thigh pain, and heterotopic ossification. RESULTS: There were significantly fewer revisions for aseptic loosening (P = .004) and decreased postoperative thigh pain (P = .03) for patients who have with HA-coated stems. There was no significant difference in HHS (P = .20), endosteal bone formation (P = .96), radiolucent lines (P = .75), linear wear rate (P = .41), or heterotopic ossification (P = .71) between HA-coated and non-HA-coated stems. CONCLUSION: We found that HA-coated femoral stems in primary THA led to significantly fewer stem revisions for aseptic loosening and less postoperative thigh pain compared to non-HA-coated stems. These findings suggest HA-coated femoral stems should be preferred over non-HA-coated femoral stems in primary THA.

Stroke History and Time Elapsed are Predictors of Complications in Total Knee Arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: A consensus has not been reached regarding the optimal timing of elective total knee arthroplasty (TKA) following a stroke. The purpose of this study was to examine the optimal period between stroke and TKA to minimize complications. Specifically, we assessed: (1) medical and surgical complications; (2) timing of stroke and TKA; (3) associated risk factors. METHODS: A national database identified 69,815 TKA patients that were separated into 6 exclusive cohorts using a stratum likelihood ratio: no stroke (n = 20,000), stroke within 6 (n = 17,764), 12 (n = 10,338), 18 (n = 8,370), 24 (n = 7,121), and 30 months (n = 6,222) prior to TKA. We analyzed 90-day, 1-year, and 2-year complications in each subgroup. Multivariate analyses were used to identify risk factors for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). RESULTS: The multivariate regression model identified that patients with a stroke within 6 months of TKA had increased risk of PJI at all time points (P < .001). Also, stroke 12 to 18 months before TKA elevated PJI risk at 1 and 2 years (all P < .021), while those over 18 months did not show a significant risk compared to controls (P > .067). CONCLUSIONS: Stroke prior to TKA was associated with an increased risk of postoperative complications, specifically PJI. We recommend a minimum of 6 months between stroke and TKA, with 18 months offering the lowest risk.

Prediction of Non-Home Discharge Following Total Hip Arthroplasty in Geriatric Patients.

Introduction: The majority of total hip arthroplasty (THA) patients are discharged home postoperatively, however, many still require continued medical care. We aimed to identify important characteristics that predict nonhome discharge in geriatric patients undergoing THA using machine learning. We hypothesize that our analyses will identify variables associated with decreased functional status and overall health to be predictive of non-home discharge. Materials and Methods: Elective, unilateral, THA patients above 65 years of age were isolated in the NSQIP database from 2018-2020. Demographic, pre-operative, and intraoperative variables were analyzed. After splitting the data into training (75%) and validation (25%) data sets, various machine learning models were used to predict non-home discharge. The model with the best area under the curve (AUC) was further assessed to identify the most important variables. Results: In total, 19,840 geriatric patients undergoing THA were included in the final analyses, of which 5194 (26.2%) were discharged to a non-home setting. The RF model performed the best and identified age above 78 years (OR: 1.08 [1.07, 1.09], P < .0001), as the most important variable when predicting non-home discharge in geriatric patients with THA, followed by severe American Society of Anesthesiologists grade (OR: 1.94 [1.80, 2.10], P < .0001), operation time (OR: 1.01 [1.00, 1.02], P < .0001), anemia (OR: 2.20 [1.87, 2.58], P < .0001), and general anesthesia (OR: 1.64 [1.52, 1.79], P < .0001). Each of these variables was also significant in MLR analysis. The RF model displayed good discrimination with AUC = .831. Discussion: The RF model revealed clinically important variables for assessing discharge disposition in geriatric patients undergoing THA, with the five most important factors being older age, severe ASA grade, longer operation time, anemia, and general anesthesia. Conclusions: With the rising emphasis on patient-centered care, incorporating models such as these may allow for preoperative risk factor mitigation and reductions in healthcare expenditure.

Prediction of suitable outpatient candidates following revision total knee arthroplasty using machine learning.

Aims: To identify variables independently associated with same-day discharge (SDD) of patients following revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA) and to develop machine learning algorithms to predict suitable candidates for outpatient rTKA. Methods: Data were obtained from the American College of Surgeons National Quality Improvement Programme (ACS-NSQIP) database from the years 2018 to 2020. Patients with elective, unilateral rTKA procedures and a total hospital length of stay between zero and four days were included. Demographic, preoperative, and intraoperative variables were analyzed. A multivariable logistic regression (MLR) model and various machine learning techniques were compared using area under the curve (AUC), calibration, and decision curve analysis. Important and significant variables were identified from the models. Results: Of the 5,600 patients included in this study, 342 (6.1%) underwent SDD. The random forest (RF) model performed the best overall, with an internally validated AUC of 0.810. The ten crucial factors favoring SDD in the RF model include operating time, anaesthesia type, age, BMI, American Society of Anesthesiologists grade, race, history of diabetes, rTKA type, sex, and smoking status. Eight of these variables were also found to be significant in the MLR model. Conclusion: The RF model displayed excellent accuracy and identified clinically important variables for determining candidates for SDD following rTKA. Machine learning techniques such as RF will allow clinicians to accurately risk-stratify their patients preoperatively, in order to optimize resources and improve patient outcomes.

The Role of Cryotherapy After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Previous research shows conflicting evidence regarding the postoperative role of cryotherapy after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This systematic review aims to further investigate the effect of various methods of cryotherapy on the following: (1) pain; (2) swelling; (3) postoperative opioid use; and (4) range of motion (ROM). METHODS: A strategic keyword search of Medline, Cochrane, Embase, and CINAHL retrieved randomized controlled trials examining cryotherapy following TKA published between February 1, 2017, and February 24, 2022. The studied outcomes included pain ratings, knee/limb swelling, opioid use, and ROM. Six studies were selected for inclusion in this review. RESULTS: Opioid use was significantly decreased in cryotherapy groups compared to noncryotherapy groups within the first postoperative week only (P < .05). This effect may be augmented by the use of computer-assisted (temperature regulated) cryotherapy devices, compared to other modalities including ice packs. Pain ratings also decrease, but this decrease may not be clinically relevant. Cryotherapy appears to confer no consistent benefit to ROM and swelling at any time point. Computer-assisted cryotherapy may be associated with decreased opioid consumption after TKA compared to traditional ice packs. CONCLUSION: Cryotherapy's role after TKA appears to be in decreasing opioid consumption primarily in the first postoperative week. Pain ratings also decrease consistently with cryotherapy use, but this decrease may not be clinically relevant. Study heterogeneity requires further research focusing on optimizing cryotherapy modalities within the first postoperative week, and analyzing cost associated with modern outpatient postoperative TKA protocols.

Return to Sports After Total Hip Arthroplasty: An Umbrella Review for Consensus Guidelines.

BACKGROUND: Current recommendations on safe return to sports (RTS) after total hip arthroplasty (THA) are subjective and based on studies of varying quality. PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to synthesize systematic reviews and meta-analyses on post-THA RTS to propose practice guidelines identifying which sports can be resumed, when they can be resumed, and what risks are present. STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: This umbrella review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) protocol and PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The Embase, Medline, and Cochrane databases were searched. Included studies were either systematic reviews or meta-analyses addressing primary or secondary outcomes. Outcomes of interest included safe sports after THA, time to RTS, prognostic indicators of RTS, reasons patients do not RTS, percentage of patients who RTS, implant complications, and objective classification of sports by impact level. Included reviews had data extracted and were assessed for methodological quality using the JBI protocol. The authors defined RTS as "returning to a sport the patient participated in at any point preoperatively." RESULTS: Patients demonstrated a trend toward lower-impact sports postoperatively. Sports were classified as low (eg, walking), moderate (eg, downhill skiing), or high impact (eg, soccer). A total of 82% (range, 55%-104%) of patients were able to RTS at a mean time of 6 months (range, 4-7 months). The best prognostic indicator for RTS was previous experience in that sport. The main reason patients did not RTS was surgeon recommendation. Aseptic loosening was the most cited complication after RTS. CONCLUSION: Most patients are able to return to preoperative levels of low- (eg, walking) and moderate-impact (eg, hiking) sports between 7 and 12 months after THA. Patients planning a return to high-impact (eg, singles tennis) sports should be counseled on the possible risks of traumatic injuries and aseptic loosening and monitored closely.

Cementation in total hip arthroplasty: history, principles, and technique.

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a remarkably successful operation that has grown rapidly its utilization. Early modern THA constructs as developed by Sir John Charnley featured cemented femoral stems and acetabular components. The technique of cementing components for THA has evolved over time. Modern acetabular preparation requires exposure of the subchondral bone with appropriate cement penetration into the trabecular bone, whereas femoral preparation requires cleaning of the canal, cement restrictor placement, retrograde filling, and pressurization of the cement. When used appropriately, these techniques result in excellent long-term survivorship of implants and are also widely considered to be the ideal method of fixation for hip fractures. The purpose of this article to review the history, properties, techniques, and outcomes of bone cement utilization in THA.

Clinical Outcomes are Similar Between Graft Types Used in Chronic Patellar Tendon Reconstruction: A Systematic Review.

Purpose: To compare clinical outcomes between graft types and techniques used to repair chronic patellar tendon injuries to help surgeons make evidence-based decisions. Methods: Medline, Embase, and Cochrane libraries were searched through January 2021, according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Inclusion criteria were surgical treatment of chronic patellar tendon injury (defined as >6 weeks old), article available in English, and human subjects, minimum 1-year follow-up, and level of evidence I-IV. Studies describing chronic patellar tendon ruptures in the setting of total knee arthroplasty were excluded. Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tools for case reports and case series. Results: A total of 642 studies were identified through the initial search with 9 studies meeting all inclusion criteria. All studies included were case series encompassing 96 patients with follow-up ranging from 21 months to 7.2 years. Reconstruction techniques included the use of semitendinosus and/or gracilis tendon(s), Achilles tendon, bone-patellar tendon-bone (BTB), or direct repair. The most common graft choice was semitendinosus and/or gracilis tendon(s). Each reconstruction method yielded improvement in respect to range of motion (ROM), extensor lag, quadriceps strength, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Commonly reported complications were pain and numbness with only one reported instance of graft failure. Conclusions: In this study, we found that all reconstructive methods described in the literature can produce satisfactory outcomes with improved function, strength, and minimal complications after chronic patellar tendon ruptures. Because of study heterogeneity and low levels of evidence, consensus cannot be reached on a single superior reconstruction method. Level of Evidence: Level IV, systematic review of level IV studies.

Significant Reduction in Short-Term Complications Following Unicompartmental Versus Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Propensity Score Matched Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a gold standard surgical treatment for end-stage arthritis and unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) is an alternative for localized disease in appropriate patients. Both have been shown to have equivalent complications in the short-term period. We aimed to explore the differences in 30-day complication rates between UKA and TKA using recent data. METHODS: Current Procedural Terminology codes identified patients in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database who underwent primary TKA or UKA from 2014 to 2018. Propensity score matching addressed demographic differences. Rate of any adverse event (AAE) and complications were compared. RESULTS: We identified 279,852 patients with 270,786 and 9,066 undergoing TKA and UKA. No significant difference was observed in baseline demographics after matching. The AAE rate differed significantly between TKA (5.07%) and UKA (2.38%) cohorts (P < .001). TKA group experienced more wound dehiscence, cerebrovascular accident, postoperative blood transfusion, deep vein thrombosis, and requirement for postoperative intubation. Rate of extended length of stay differed between the TKA (11.35%) and UKA (4.89%) cohorts (P < .001). Accounting for all other variables, preoperative corticosteroid use, bleeding disorder, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease increased the risk for AAE for both groups. Increasing American Society of Anesthesiologists class also increased the odds for complication proportionally with increasing age and operative time. CONCLUSION: Contrary to previous data, we found a significantly higher 30-day complication rate in TKA patients. TKA patients had a higher likelihood of having an extended length of stay. Multivariable analysis identified preoperative steroid use, bleeding disorder, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease as risk factors for developing adverse events for both groups. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Comparing Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty Stems at a High-Volume Revision Center.

Introduction: Hybrid fixation and fully cemented fixation are commonly used in revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA). These two techniques are typically done based on surgeon preference and one has not demonstrated superiority over the other. The purpose of this study was to examine if there was a difference in survivorship between the two different techniques. Methods: A retrospective cohort study of all consecutive patients undergoing rTKA (CPT 27487) from January 1, 2011 to January 1, 2018 at a single academic center was performed. Patients were divided into cemented and hybrid rTKA groups with comparison of patient demographic, clinical and radiological outcomes, reoperation, change in post-operative hemoglobin (HgB), and length of stay (LOS). Results: A total of 133 rTKA for 122 patients were identified: 30.1% in the cemented and 69.9% in the hybrid groups. There was no significant difference in age (p = 0.491), sex (p = 0.250), laterality (p = 0.421), or body mass index (BMI) (p = 0.609) between the two groups. Mean LOS (hybrid 4.13 days, cemented 3.65 days; p = 0.356) and change in Hgb (hybrid 2.95 mg/dL, cemented 2.62mg/dL; p = 0.181) were not statistically different between the groups. Mean follow up for the hybrid (25.4 months, range 2-114 months) and cemented (24.6 months, range 3-75.5 months) rTKA was not statistically significant (p = 0.825). Overall survival rates were 80.9% in the hybrid and 84.6% in the cemented groups (p = 0.642). Conclusions: Hybrid and fully cemented rTKA techniques have similar survival rates at a minimum followup of 2 years. Additionally, in our cohort, age, gender, and BMI were not associated with failure in either group. Furthermore, we did not observe differences in LOS or change in hemoglobin suggesting early postoperative complications may not differ between cemented and hybrid stemmed groups. Continued long-term research is required for defining the best rTKA technique.

Return to sport post-knee arthroplasty : an umbrella review for consensus guidelines.

AIMS: Return to sport following undergoing total (TKA) and unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) has been researched with meta-analyses and systematic reviews of varying quality. The aim of this study is to create an umbrella review to consolidate the data into consensus guidelines for returning to sports following TKA and UKA. METHODS: Systematic reviews and meta-analyses written between 2010 and 2020 were systematically searched. Studies were independently screened by two reviewers and methodology quality was assessed. Variables for analysis included objective classification of which sports are safe to participate in postoperatively, time to return to sport, prognostic indicators of returning, and reasons patients do not. RESULTS: A total of 410 articles were found, including 58 duplicates. Seven articles meeting inclusion criteria reported that 34% to 100% of patients who underwent TKA or UKA were able to return to sports at 13 weeks and 12 weeks respectively, with UKA patients more likely to do so. Prior experience with the sport was the most significant prognostic indicator for return. These patients were likely to participate in low-impact sports, particularly walking, cycling, golf, and swimming. Moderate-impact sport participation, such as doubles tennis and skiing, may be considered on a case-by-case basis considering the patient's prior experience. There is insufficient long-term data on the risks to return to high-impact sport, such as decreased implant survivorship. CONCLUSION: There is a consensus that patients can return to low-impact sports following TKA or UKA. Return to moderate-impact sport was dependent on a case-by-case basis, with emphasis on the patient's prior experience in the sport. Return to high-impact sports was not supported. Patients undergoing UKA return to sport one week sooner and with more success than TKA. Future studies are needed to assess long-term outcomes following return to high-impact sports to establish evidence-based recommendations. This review summarizes all available data for the most up-to-date and evidence-based guidelines for returning to sport following TKA and UKA to replace guidelines based on subjective physician survey data. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(3):245-251.

Examination of Randomized Trials and Corresponding Trial Registry Entries: Registration Timing and Primary Outcome Analysis in the Journal of Arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: Prospective trial registration enhances transparency and rigor of trial reporting. We conducted an in-depth examination of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) published in The Journal of Arthroplasty (JOA) from 2010 to 2020 and their associated trial registries. METHODS: We examined all RCTs published in the JOA during the even years between 2010 and 2020. We determined the proportion of trials that were registered and prospectively registered as well as the extent of consistency between primary outcome characteristics in the trials vs the registries. Trial characteristics published between 2010 and 2014 were compared to trials published between 2016 and 2020. RESULTS: A total of 57 (33.7%) of 169 primary RCTs over the study period reported being registered and of these, 20 (11.8%) were prospectively registered. For the registered primary RCTs, 75% reported primary outcome findings that were inconsistent with the corresponding registry. Trial registration proportion substantially improved from 13.6% between 2010 and 2014 to 53% between 2016 and 2020 (z-test = -5.315, P < .001). CONCLUSION: High proportions of retrospectively registered or unregistered trials and a very high proportion of inconsistencies in reporting of primary outcomes compared to the trial registries were found. These data argue for a well-developed strategy by JOA to enhance editorial policies, reviewer and editorial board member training and oversight, and improved arthroplasty researcher awareness to improve the current state of RCT reporting in JOA.

Technical Considerations and Avoiding Complications in Total Hip Arthroplasty.

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is considered to be the surgical procedure of the 20th century. Current projections show that by 2030, primary THA is expected to grow by 171%, with revision THA expected to increase by 142% in the same time frame. Although complications are not common, when they occur, they can cause notable morbidity to the patient. Understanding the unique anatomy and needs of each patient will prepare the surgeon to avoid soft-tissue or bony injury, optimize prosthesis placement, and decrease the risk of infection. This article aims to highlight common causes of early revision THA and provide specific technical strategies to avoid these complications. Following a systematic approach to the primary THA and using these techniques will assist the surgeon in avoiding complications to revision hip arthroplasty.

Incidence, Injury Mechanisms, and Recovery of Iatrogenic Nerve Injuries During Hip and Knee Arthroplasty.

Iatrogenic nerve injury is a rare but potentially devastating complication in total joint arthroplasty of the hip and the knee. Multiple previous studies have evaluated the incidence, mechanisms of injury, recovery, and potential treatments for this complication. Injury in total hip arthroplasty generally involves direct injury of sensory nerves from the incision, direct or traction injury of during exposure, or limb lengthening. Injury in total knee arthroplasty generally involves direct injury of sensory nerves from incision, injury due to errant placement of retractors, during balancing, or from traction because of deformity correction. Treatment of iatrogenic nerve injuries has ranged from observation, intraoperative prevention by nerve monitoring, limb shortening postoperatively, medications, and decompression. The orthopaedic surgeon should be versed in these etiologies to advise their patients on the incidence of injury, to prevent occurrence by understanding risky intraoperative maneuvers, and to select appropriate interventions when nerve injuries occur.

Enhanced Recovery After Primary Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) has become increasingly implemented to reduce costs, to increase efficiency, and to optimize patient outcomes after a surgical procedure. This study aimed to systematically review the effect of ERAS after primary elective total hip arthroplasty (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA) on hospital length of stay, total procedure-related morbidity, and readmission. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and with guidance from the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases were searched from inception (1946 for MEDLINE and 1974 for Embase; Cochrane is a composite of multiple databases and thus does not report a standard inception date) until January 15, 2020. Prospective nonrandomized cohort studies and randomized controlled trials comparing adult patients undergoing elective primary THA or TKA with ERAS or traditional protocols were included. Articles examining outpatient, nonelective, or revision surgical procedures were excluded. Two reviewers independently assessed the risk of bias and extracted data. The primary outcome was length of stay. The secondary outcomes included total procedure-related morbidity and readmission. RESULTS: Of the 1,018 references identified (1,017 identified through an electronic search and 1 identified through a manual search), 9 individual studies met inclusion criteria. Data were reported from 7,789 participants, with 2,428 receiving ERAS and 5,361 receiving traditional care. Narrative synthesis was performed instead of meta-analysis, given the presence of moderate to high risk of bias, wide variation of ERAS interventions, and inconsistent methods for assessing and reporting outcomes among included studies. Adherence to ERAS protocols consistently reduced hospital length of stay. Few studies demonstrated reduced total procedure-related morbidity, and there was no significant effect on readmission rates. CONCLUSIONS: ERAS likely reduced the length of stay after primary elective THA and TKA, with a more pronounced effect in selected healthier patient populations. We found minimal to no impact on perioperative morbidity or readmission. The quality of existing evidence was limited because of study heterogeneity and a significant risk of bias. Further high-quality research is needed to definitively assess the impact of ERAS on total joint arthroplasty. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Radiographic False Evidence of a Tibial Baseplate Fracture After Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Fracture of the tibial baseplate is a rare but dramatic cause of typically late fatigue failure in the setting of loosening after total knee arthroplasty. A 58-year-old female presented 4 months after total knee arthroplasty for evaluation of contralateral knee pain. Plain radiographs of the left knee incidentally suggested the possibility of tibial baseplate fracture despite minimal, expected postoperative symptoms. Subsequent computed tomography imaging demonstrated no confirmatory evidence of component failure or fracture. Malalignment and fatigue fracture are proposed etiologies of baseplate fractures. The presented case illustrates the importance of computed tomography imaging and clinical correlation when a diagnosis of baseplate fracture is suspected to avoid an unnecessary revision surgery.

Tranexamic Acid in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Hemarthrosis after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction procedures can delay rehabilitation and have toxic effects on the cartilage and synovium. Tranexamic acid is widely used in adult reconstruction procedures; however, its use in ACL reconstruction is a novel topic of study. PURPOSE: To analyze the available literature on hemarthrosis, pain, functional outcomes, and complications after administration of tranexamic acid in ACL reconstruction procedures. STUDY DESIGN: Meta-analysis. METHODS: A literature search was performed to retrieve randomized controlled trials examining the use of tranexamic acid at the time of ACL reconstruction procedures. The studied outcomes included postoperative joint drain output, hemarthrosis grade, visual analog scale scores for pain, range of motion, Lysholm score, postoperative rates of deep venous thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism. Outcomes were pooled to perform a meta-analysis. RESULTS: Five prospective randomized controlled trials met inclusion criteria for analysis. Four studies administered intravenous tranexamic acid in bolus or infusion form before ACL reconstruction, while 2 studies administered tranexamic acid via intra-articular injection. Specifically, tranexamic acid was administered intravenously (preoperative 15-mg/kg bolus 10 minutes before tourniquet inflation with or without 10 mg/kg/h for 3 hours postoperatively) or intra-articularly (10 mL [100 mg/mL] intraoperatively), and 1 study consisted of tranexamic acid administration in combined intravenous and intra-articular forms (15-mg/kg bolus 10 minutes before tourniquet inflation and intra-articular 3 g 10 minutes before tourniquet deflation). Tranexamic acid use in ACL reconstruction cases resulted in a mean reduction of 61.5 mL in postoperative drain output at 24 hours (95% CI, -95.51 to -27.46; P = .0004), lower hemarthrosis grade (P < .00001), improved Lysholm scores, and reduction in visual analog scale scores for pain (-1.96 points; 95% CI, -2.19 to -1.73; P < .00001) extending to postoperative week 6. Range of motion was improved in the immediate postoperative period, and the need for joint aspiration within 2 weeks was reduced (P < .001). There was no difference in venous thromboembolic event rate between the experimental and control groups. CONCLUSION: The use of intravenous tranexamic acid in ACL reconstruction surgery results in reduced joint drain output and hemarthrosis and improved pain scores and range of motion in the initial postoperative period without increased complications or thromboembolic events.