Predictors of long-term mortality in older patients with hip fractures managed by hemiarthroplasty: a 10-year study based on a population registry in Saxony, Germany.

BACKGROUND: Mortality of patients with a femoral neck fracture is high, especially within the first year after surgery, but also remains elevated thereafter. The aim of this study was to identify factors potentially associated with long-term mortality in patients homogeneously treated with hemiarthroplasty for femoral neck fracture. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study was performed at a single level 1 national trauma center at the university hospital of Leipzig (Saxony, Germany). The study time-window was January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2020. Primary outcome measure was mortality depending on individual patient-related characteristics and perioperative risk factors. Inclusion criteria was a low-energy femoral neck fracture (Garden I-IV) in geriatric patients 60 years of age or older that were primarily treated with bipolar hemiarthroplasty. Date of death or actual residence of patients alive was obtained from the population register of the eastern German state of Saxony, Germany. The outcome was tested using the log-rank test and plotted using Kaplan-Meier curves. Unadjusted and adjusted for other risk factors such as sex and age, hazard ratios were calculated using Cox proportional hazards models and presented with 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS: The 458 included patients had a median age of 83 (IQR 77-89) years, 346 (75%) were female and 113 (25%) male patients. Mortality rates after 30 days, 1, 5 and 10 years were 13%, 25%, 60% and 80%, respectively. Multivariate regression analysis revealed age (HR = 1.1; p < 0.001), male gender (HR = 1.6; p < 0.001), ASA-Score 3-4 vs. 1-2 (HR = 1.3; p < 0.001), dementia (HR = 1.9; p < 0.001) and a history of malignancy (HR = 1.6; p = 0.002) as independent predictors for a higher long-term mortality risk. Perioperative factors such as preoperative waiting time, early surgical complications, or experience of the surgeon were not associated with a higher overall mortality. CONCLUSIONS: In the present study based on data from the population registry from Saxony, Germany the 10-year mortality of older patients above 60 years of age managed with hemiarthroplasty for femoral neck fracture was 80%. Independent risk factors for increased long-term mortality were higher patient age, male gender, severe comorbidity, a history of cancer and in particular dementia. Perioperative factors did not affect long-term mortality.

Does the orientation of syndesmosis fixative device affect the immediate reduction of the distal tibiofibular joint?

INTRODUCTION: Incongruent stabilization of the distal tibiofibular joint (syndesmosis) results in poorer long-term outcome in malleolar fractures. The aim was to analyze whether the orientation of the syndesmotic stabilization would affect the immediate reduction imaged in computed tomography (CT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The syndesmotic congruity in 114 ankle fractures with stabilization of the syndesmosis were retrospectively analyzed in the post-operative bilateral CT scans. The incisura device angle (IDA) was defined and correlated with the side-to-side difference of Leporjärvi clear-space (ΔLCS), anterior tibiofibular distance (ΔantTFD) and Nault talar dome angle (ΔNTDA) regardless of the stabilization technique and separately for suture button system and syndesmotic screw. Asymmetric reduction was defined as ΔLCS > 2 mm and |ΔantTFD|> 2 mm. RESULTS: Regardless of the stabilization technique, no correlation between the IDA and the ΔLCS (r = 0.069), the ΔantTFD (r = 0.019) nor the ΔNTDA (r = 0.177) could be observed. There were no differences between suture button system and syndesmotic screw. Asymmetrical reduction was detected in 46% of the cases, while sagittal asymmetry was most common. No association was found between the orientation of stabilization device and occurrence of asymmetrical reduction (p > 0.05). The results of suture button system and syndesmotic screw were comparable in this respect (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Poor correlation between the orientation of the stabilization device and the immediate post-operative congruity of the syndesmosis could be shown. In contrast to current literature, this study did not show difference of suture button system over syndesmotic screw in this regard. Careful adjustment of the fibula in anteroposterior orientation should be given special attention.

Management of Modular Mega-Implant Infection of the Lower Extremity.

INTRODUCTION: Revision arthroplasty involving mega-implants is associated with a high complication rate. In particular, infection is a serious complication of revision arthroplasty of hip and knee joints and has been reported to have an average rate of 18%, and for mega-implants, the range is from 3 to 36%. This study was designed to analyze the strategy of treatment of infection of mega-endoprostheses of the lower extremities in our patient cohort, particularly the management of chronic infection. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a retrospective study that focused on the results of the treatment of periprosthetic infections of mega-implants of the lower extremities. We identified 26 cases with periprosthetic infections out of 212 patients with 220 modular mega-endoprostheses of the lower extremities who were treated in our department between September 2013 and September 2019. As a reinfection or recurrence, we defined clinical and microbiological recurrences of local periprosthetic joint infections after an antibiotic-free period. RESULTS: In this study, 200 cases out of 220 were investigated. The average follow-up period was approximately 18 months (6 months to 6 years). Endoprosthesis infections after implantation of mega-implants occurred in 26 cases (13%). This group comprised 2 early infections (within the first 4 weeks) and 24 chronic infections (between 10 weeks and 6 years after implantation). Nineteen cases out of the identified 26 cases with infection (73.1%) belong to the group of patients who were operated on due to major bone loss following explantation of endoprosthetic components due to previous periprosthetic joint infection. The remaining seven cases with infection comprised four cases following management of periprosthetic fracture, two cases following treatment of aseptic loosening, and one case following tumor resection. All infections were treated surgically. In all cases, the duration of continuous antibiotic treatment did not exceed 6 weeks. Both cases with early infection were treated by exchanging polyethylene inlays and performing debridement with lavage (two cases). In two (7.7%) cases with chronic infection, one-stage surgery was performed. In all remaining cases with chronic infection (22 cases; 84.6%), explantation of all components and temporary implantation of cement spacers were carried out prior to reimplantation. CONCLUSION: There is still no gold standard therapeutic regimen for the management of periprosthetic infection of mega-implants, though radical surgical debridement and lavage accompanied by systemic antibiotic therapy are the most important therapeutic tools in all cases of periprosthetic infections, regardless of the time of onset. Further studies are needed to standardize management strategies of such infections. Nevertheless, it is not uncommon for compromises to be made based on the particular condition of the individual.

The pectineal ligament is a secondary stabilizer in anterior pelvic ring fractures - a biomechanical study.

BACKGROUND: There is ongoing discussion whether operative fixation of partially stable lateral compression fractures of the pelvis is beneficial for the patient. Recent studies suggest that the pectineal ligament may act as a secondary stabilizer of the anterior pelvis ring. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of the pectineal ligament's integrity on the biomechanical stability and displacement in anterior pelvic ring fractures. METHODS: In a biomechanical setup, a cyclic loading protocol was applied with sinusoidal axial force from 100 to 500 N on cadaver hemipelves with soft tissues (n = 5). After testing the native specimens ("No fracture"), increasing degrees of injury were created on the samples: 1. an osseous defect to the pubic ramus ("Bone #"), 2. cutting of all soft tissues including obturator membrane except for the pectineal ligament intact ("ObtM #"), 3. cutting of the pectineal ligament ("PectL #") - with the loading protocol being applied to each sample at each state of injury. Fracture motion and vertical displacement were measured using a digital image correlation system and opto-metric analysis. RESULTS: No failure of the constructs was observed. Creating a pubic ramus fracture (p = 0.042) and cutting the pectineal ligament (p = 0.042) each significantly increased relative fracture movement. The mean change in absolute movement was 0.067 mm (range, 0.02 mm to 0.19 mm) for ObtM # and 0.648 mm (range, 0.07 mm to 2.93 mm), for PectL # in relation to Bone # (p = 0.043). Also for absolute vertical movement, there was a significant change when the pectineal ligament was cut (p = 0.043), while there was no such effect with cutting all other soft tissues including the obturator membrane. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the findings of this in vitro study, the pectineal ligament significantly contributes to the stability of the anterior pelvic ring. An intact pectineal ligament reduces fracture movement in presence of a pubic ramus fracture.

The impact of polyethylene abrasion on the occurrence of periprosthetic proximal femoral fractures in patients with total hip arthroplasty.

INTRODUCTION: In addition to abrasion-induced osteolysis and ensuing instabilities, the polyethylene (PE) abrasion of total hip arthroplasty (THA) inlays can also cause gait instability due to the decentralization of the hip joint. The current literature yields, as yet, insufficient findings whether these two factors are linked directly or indirectly to a higher risk for periprosthetic proximal femoral fractures (PPFF). The aim of our retrospective evaluation is to analyse the impact of PE abrasion on the pathology of PPFF in patients with THA. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The retrospective evaluation comprises all PPFF in patients with THA in the period from 01/2010 up to 12/2016. The study group (SG) included 66 cases (n = 66). The control group (CG) was comprised of patients with asymptomatic THA (n = 66), who were treated by our outpatient department including routine check-ups and X-ray examinations. We used the matched-pair methodology to scale the period of postsurgical care of the CG to the lifetime of the implant up to PPFF in the SG. We included epidemiologic data, radiological femoral head decentralization, osteolysis (Gruen classification), instabilities, acetabular cup position, and implant properties in our analysis. For the SG, we also included intra-operative signs of abrasion. FINDINGS: The SG showed significantly higher numbers of decentralized THA as signs of inlay erosion with 73% compared to only 41% in the CG (p > 0.001). The SG showed 1 ± 0.68 mm hip joint decentralization as to 0.5 ± 0.59 mm in the CG (p = 0.004). We found significantly more cases of osteolysis in the SG (n = 25) than in the CG (n = 13) (p = 0.003). We found no notable differences in acetabular cup inclination or anteversion as well as cup size. However, differences were significant in femoral head size (SG 32 ± 2.3 mm, CG 36 ± 2.4 mm; p = 0.042) and head material. We found more widespread use of metal femoral heads in the SG than in the CG (SG 1:1, CG 1:21; p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: PPFF patients showed significantly higher rates of inlay erosion, resulting in femoral head decentralization and osteolysis. The higher rate of fracture is likely caused by the increasing instability of the implant fixation due to abrasion-induced osteolysis and the associated degradation of bone quality. It is conceivable that the abrasion and decentralization of the THA can also lead to gait instability, and thus, a higher proneness to falls. Gait instability can also be aggravated by increased granulation tissue and effusion due to the inlay abrasion. Although this cannot be substantiated by the investigation. In patients with decentralization of the THA and osteolysis, a radiological follow-up should be performed, and in case of gait instability (femoral head and) inlay replacements should be considered.

Knee arthrodesis as last resort for persistent knee joint infections : Comparison of extramedullary and intramedullary treatment.

BACKGROUND: Knee joint arthrodesis is an established treatment for periprosthetic infections (PPI) providing stability and pain relief. In this study the outcome after arthrodesis of the knee joint for persistent infections was compared and evaluated depending on the surgical procedure (intramedullary vs. extramedullary). MATERIAL AND METHODS: In a retrospective case analysis, all patients who underwent knee joint arthrodesis between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2016 were identified and divided into two groups: IMA and EMA. All patients were examined clinically and radiologically and the patient files were evaluated. In addition, the FIM score, the LEFS, the WHOQOL-BREF and NRS were evaluated. RESULTS: The median LEFS score for the IMA group was 26 points and in the EMA group 2 points (p = 0.03). The IMA patients showed a median pain scale at rest of 0 and during exercise of 2. The EMA group recorded a pain scale of 3 at rest and 5 during exercise (p = 0.28 at rest; p = 0.43 during exercise). In the IMA group the median postsurgical leg length difference was -2.0 cm and -2.5 cm in the EMA group (p = 0.31). At the end of the follow-up examinations, the FIM score of patients in the IMA group was 74.5 points and 22 points in the EMA group (p = 0.07). CONCLUSION: The study showed that no arthrodesis procedure is obviously superior with respect to the postoperative outcome. The IMA combines advantages especially in the early phase after surgery in terms of function as well as patient comfort and is therefore currently the procedure of choice. The attending physician should be familiar with the advantages and disadvantages of the various procedures in order to be able to make an individual decision and thus maximize the chance of treatment success.

Significance of nutritional status in the development of periprosthetic infections : A retrospective analysis of 194 patients.

BACKGROUND: Malnutrition caused by protein and vitamin deficiencies is a significant negative prognostic factor in surgical wound healing disorders and infections. Particularly in elective surgery, preoperative compensation of deficiencies is advisable to avoid negative postoperative consequences. This study examined the nutritional and protein balance of patients with periprosthetic hip and knee joint infections. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Patients with periprosthetic hip or knee joint infections constituted the study group (SG). Control group I (CG I) included patients with primary implants and CG II included patients who required revision surgery because of aseptic loosening. Relevant nutritional and protein parameters were determined via analysis of peripheral venous blood samples. In addition, a questionnaire was used to evaluate the nutritional and eating patterns of all patients. The nutritional risk screening (NRS) 2002 score and body mass index (BMI) were also calculated for all participants. RESULTS: Differences were found in the albumin level (SG: 36.23 ± 7.34, CG I: 44.37 ± 3.32, p < 0.001, CG II: 44.06 ± 4.24, p < 0.001) and total protein in serum (SG: 65.42 ± 8.66, CG I: 70.80 ± 5.33, p = 0.004, CG II: 71.22 ± 5.21, p = 0.004). The number of patients with lowered albumin levels (SG 19/61, CG I 1/78, CG II 2/55) and total protein in serum (SG: 12/61, CG I 5/78, CG II 2/55) also showed considerable variation. The number of patients with a NRS 2002 score ≥3 differed significantly between SG and both CGs (SG: 5/61, CG I 1/78, CG II 0/55); however, these differences could not be confirmed using BMI. CONCLUSION: As expected, lowered albumin and total protein levels were observed in PJI due to the acute phase reaction. The NRS can be performed to exclude nutritional deficiency, which cannot be excluded based on BMI. In cases of periprosthetic joint infection it is reasonable to compensate the nutritional deficiency with dietary supplements.

The AO triangular external fixator: a backup option in the treatment of ankle fractures in geriatric patients?

PURPOSE: To analyze the indications, radiological short-term outcomes, and complications of ankle fractures in geriatric patients treated with a triangular external fixator (AEF) until fracture healing. Furthermore, the effect of an additional osteosynthesis to AEF on the radiological outcome was investigated. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of ankle fractures treated in a Level I Trauma Center between 2005 and 2015 with an AEF in patients aged ≥ 65 years until fracture has healed. The combination of AEF and at least one additional osteosynthesis of a malleolus was defined as hybrid external fixator (HEF). At the time of AEF removal, a preserved ankle joint congruity was defined as good radiological outcome. Incongruity more than 2 mm was defined as poor radiologic results. RESULTS: 16 patients (13 women, 3 men) with a mean age of 74 years (SD 6.2) were treated with AEF until fracture healing, 9 with a single AEF and 7 with a HEF. Stabilization with HEF (n = 7 [100%]) showed higher rates of good radiological outcome than AEF alone (n = 4 [44%] of 9; p = 0.034). The duration of therapy did not differ between HEF and AEF (70 day vs 77 days). 4 patients (22%) required surgical revision. CONCLUSION: It could be shown that osteosynthesis in addition to AEF leads to a better radiological short-term results than using AEF alone. Therefore, in the situation where an AEF is considered as the definitive treatment option for an ankle fracture in geriatric patients with expected or existing soft tissue problems, it should be done or completed as a HEF. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic level IV.

Results after surgical treatment of periprosthetic proximal femoral fractures. Osteosynthesis with prosthesis preservation vs. prosthesis change.

Background: Periprosthetic fractures (PPF) of the femur close to the hip joint have serious consequences for most geriatric affected patients. In principle, apart from the highly uncommon conservative therapy, there are two therapeutic options. On the one hand, the prosthesis-preserving treatment by means of osteosynthesis using plates and/or cerclages in general is available. On the other hand, a (partial) change of the prosthesis with optionally additive osteosynthesis or a proximal femoral replacement can be performed because of prosthesis loosening or non-reconstructable comminuted fractures as well as most cemented stem variations. The aim of this retrospective study is the analysis of periprosthetic proximal femoral fractures in the presence of a total hip arthroplasty (THA). The outcome of the operated patients is to be investigated depending on the type of care (osteosynthesis with prosthesis preservation vs. prosthesis change). Material and methods: In a retrospective case analysis, 80 patients with THA and PPF were included. They were divided into two groups. Group I represents the osteosynthetic treatment to preserve the implanted THA (n=42). Group II (n=38) includes those patients who were treated by a change of their endoprosthesis with or without additional osteosynthesis. Specifics of all patients, like gender, age at fracture, interval between fracture and implantation, length of in-patient stay, body mass index, osteoporosis, corticomedullary index and complications such as infections, re-fracture, loosening, material failure or other complications, were recorded and compared. Furthermore, the patients were re-examined by a questionnaire and the score according to Merle d'Aubigné and Postel. Results: In group I the mean follow-up time was 48.5±23 months (4 years) whereas group II amounted 32.5±24.5 months (2.7 years) (p=0.029). Besides, there were significant differences in age (81± 11 years vs. 76±10 years, p=0.047) and length of in-patient stay (14.5±8.6 days vs. 18.0±16.7 days, p=0.014). According to the score of Merle d'Aubigné and Postel, there were significantly better values for the pain in group II with comparable values for mobility and walking ability. Conclusion: The treatment of periprosthetic proximal fractures of the femur is dependent on the classification (Vancouver and Johannsen) and in particular on the prosthetic anchoring as well as the extent of the comminution zone. Older patients and patients with osteoporosis are more frequently treated with an endoprosthesis revision. Patients, who have been treated with an osteosynthesis for preserving their endoprosthesis, showed a shorter length of in-patient stay and fewer complications than people with replacement surgery. In contrast to that, patients with prosthesis revision had better outcomes concerning the score of Merle d'Aubigné and Postel.

Evaluation of the Fall Risk of Orthopedic Trauma Surgery Patients by Establishing a Fall Risk Score and a Procedure Instruction in Clinical Routine. / Evaluation des Sturzrisikos orthopädisch-unfallchirurgischer Patienten durch Etablierung eines Sturzrisikoscores und einer Verfahrensanweisung im klinischen Alltag.

This article examines the risk of falls of orthopaedic surgery patients on admission to hospital. For this purpose, an internal clinical fall risk score was developed, which divides the patients into three risk categories. Subsequently, the validity of the score was recorded and possibilities for reducing the individual risk of falling were pointed out. The results show that the score can identify patients at high risk of falling on admission.

Risk factors for early infection following hemiarthroplasty in elderly patients with a femoral neck fracture.

PURPOSE: Periprosthetic joint infections (PJI) after hemiarthroplasty for geriatric femoral neck fractures are a devastating complication that results in serious morbidity and increased mortality. Identifying risk factors associated with early infection after HA for hip fractures may offer an opportunity to address and prevent this complication in many patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate preoperative risk factors for early PJI after HA in hip fracture patients. METHODS: From January 2010 to December 2015, 312 femoral neck fractures (AO/OTA 31-B) in 305 patients were included in this single-center, retrospective study. PJI was defined according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) definition of deep incisional surgical site infection. Early infection referred to a postoperative period of 4 weeks. Binary univariable and multivariable regression analysis with backward elimination was applied to identify predictors of PJI. RESULTS: Median age of all patients was 83.0 (IQR 76-89) years. We identified 16 (5.1%) early PJI which all required surgical revision. Median length of in-hospital stay (LOS) was 20.0 (IQR 10-36) days after PJI compared to 10.0 (8-15) days without deep wound infection. In-hospital mortality was 30.8 vs. 6.6%, respectively. Preoperative CRP levels (OR 1.009; 95% CI 1.002-1.018; p = 0.044), higher BMI (OR 1.092; 95% CI 1.002-1.189; p = 0.044) and prolonged surgery time (OR 1.013; 95% CI 1.000-1.025; p = 0.041) were independent risk factors for PJI. Excluding infection following major revision due to mechanical complications identified preoperative CRP levels (OR 1.012; 95% CI 1.003-1.021; p = 0.007) and chronic glucocorticoid therapy (OR 6.314; 95% CI 1.223-32.587; p = 0.028) as risk factors, a clear trend was seen for higher BMI (OR 1.114; 95% CI 1.000-1.242; p = 0.051). A cut-off value at CRP levels ≥ 14 mg/l demonstrated a sensitivity of 69% and a specificity of 70% with a fair accuracy (AUC 0.707). CONCLUSION: Preoperative serum CRP levels, higher BMI and prolonged surgery time are independent predictors of early PJI. Excluding PJI secondary to major revision surgery revealed chronic glucocorticoid use as a risk factor apart from preoperative CRP levels.

Clinical consequences of chest tube malposition in trauma resuscitation: single-center experience.

PURPOSE: Evaluation of trauma patients with chest tube malposition using initial emergency computed tomography (CT) and assessment of outcomes and the need for chest tube replacement. METHODS: Patients with an injury severity score > 15, admitted directly from the scene, and requiring chest tube insertion prior to initial emergency CT were retrospectively reviewed. Injury severity, outcomes, and the positions of chest tubes were analyzed with respect to the need for replacement after CT. RESULTS: One hundred seven chest tubes of 78 patients met the inclusion criteria. Chest tubes were in the pleural space in 58% of cases. Malposition included intrafissural positions (27%), intraparenchymal positions (11%) and extrapleural positions (4%). Injury severity and outcomes were comparable in patients with and without malposition. Replacement due to malfunction was required at similar rates when comparing intrapleural positions with both intrafissural or intraparenchymal positions (11 vs. 23%, p = 0.072). Chest tubes not reaching the target position (e.g., pneumothorax) required replacement more often than targeted tubes (75 vs. 45%, p = 0.027). Out-of-hospital insertions required higher replacement rates than resuscitation room insertions (29 vs. 10%, p = 0.016). Body mass index, chest wall thickness, injury severity, insertion side and intercostal space did not predict the need for replacement. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with malposition of emergency chest tubes according to CT were not associated with worse outcomes compared to patients with correctly positioned tubes. Early emergency chest CT in the initial evaluation of severely injured patients allows precise detection of possible malposition of chest tubes that may require immediate intervention.

Femoral neck fractures in old age treated with hemiarthroplasty : Effects of preoperative waiting time and timing of surgery on the risk of periprosthetic infections.

BACKGROUND: Hemiarthroplasty is an established treatment for femoral neck fractures (FNF) in old age; however, approximately 20-30% of patients die within 1 year after surgery. Periprosthetic joint infections (PJI) are one of the severest complications and associated with a high mortality rate. In this retrospective study of aged patients with FNF treated with hemiarthroplasty, the incidence of PJI was evaluated with respect to the influence of the delay to and timing of surgical treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The data of patients suffering from FNF and admitted to this hospital between January 2012 and December 2014 were evaluated. Demographic data, timing of surgery, intraoperative complications, PJI and other general complications, hospitalization time and mortality were recorded. RESULTS: In this study 178 patients were included in the follow-up (114 women and 64 men). The median age of the patients was 83 years (range 55-105 years). The rate of PJI was 3.9% (7/178) and mortality was 5.6% (10/178). Patients with PJI after hemiarthroplasty had a significantly longer hospital stay (17 vs. 10 days, p < 0.001) and a higher mortality (28% vs. 4.7%). No significant differences were found between the groups with respect to the time from admission to surgery. CONCLUSION: The occurrence of PJI after hip joint fractures treated with hemiarthroplasty in aged patients is associated with a significant increase in mortality. Risk factors include a longer surgery time, diabetes, intraoperative complications, postoperative bleeding and wound healing disorders. Surgical treatment within the first 24 h should be aimed for but not at the expense of adequate patient preparation or neglecting the patient's individual risk factors.

Central venous catheterization for acute trauma resuscitation: Tip position analysis using routine emergency computed tomography.

PURPOSE: Central venous catheter insertion for acute trauma resuscitation may be associated with mechanical complications, but studies on the exact central venous catheter tip positions are not available. The goal of the study was to analyze central venous catheter tip positions using routine emergency computed tomography. METHODS: Consecutive acute multiple trauma patients requiring large-bore thoracocervical central venous catheters in the resuscitation room of a university hospital were enrolled retrospectively from 2010 to 2015. Patients who received a routine emergency chest computed tomography were analyzed regarding central venous catheter tip position. The central venous catheter tip position was defined as correct if the catheter tip was placed less than 1 cm inside the right atrium relative to the cavoatrial junction, and the simultaneous angle of the central venous catheter tip compared with the lateral border of the superior vena cava was below 40°. RESULTS: During the 6-year study period, 97 patients were analyzed for the central venous catheter tip position in computed tomography. Malpositions were observed in 29 patients (29.9%). Patients with malpositioned central venous catheters presented with a higher rate of shock (systolic blood pressure <90 mmHg) at admission (58.6% vs 33.8%, p = 0.023) and a higher mean injury severity score (38.5 ± 15.7 vs 31.6 ± 11.8, p = 0.041) compared with patients with correctly positioned central venous catheter tips. Logistic regression revealed injury severity score as a significant predictor for central venous catheter malposition (odds ratio = 1.039, 95% confidence interval = 1.005-1.074, p = 0.024). CONCLUSION: Multiple trauma patients who underwent emergency central venous catheter placement by experienced anesthetists presented with considerable tip malposition in computed tomography, which was significantly associated with a higher injury severity.

Mechanical complications and outcomes following invasive emergency procedures in severely injured trauma patients.

This study aimes to determine the complication rates, possible risk factors and outcomes of emergency procedures performed during resuscitation of severely injured patients. The medical records of patients with an injury severity score (ISS) >15 admitted to the University Hospital Leipzig from 2010 to 2015 were reviewed. Within the first 24 hours of treatment, 526 patients had an overall mechanical complication rate of 26.2%. Multivariate analysis revealed out-of-hospital airway management (OR 3.140; 95% CI 1.963-5.023; p < 0.001) and ISS (per ISS point: OR 1.024; 95% CI 1.003-1.045; p = 0.027) as independent predictors of any mechanical complications. Airway management complications (13.2%) and central venous catheter complications (11.4%) were associated with ISS >32.5 (p < 0.001) and ISS >33.5 (p = 0.005), respectively. Chest tube complications (15.8%) were associated with out-of-hospital insertion (p = 0.002) and out-of-hospital tracheal intubation (p = 0.033). Arterial line complications (9.4%) were associated with admission serum lactate >4.95 mmol/L (p = 0.001) and base excess <-4.05 mmol/L (p = 0.008). In multivariate analysis, complications were associated with an increased length of stay in the intensive care unit (p = 0.019) but not with 24 hour mortality (p = 0.930). Increasing injury severity may contribute to higher complexity of the individual emergency treatment and is thus associated with higher mechanical complication rates providing potential for further harm.

A new classification of TKA periprosthetic femur fractures considering the implant type.

BACKGROUND: The treatment aims of periprosthetic fractures (PPF) of the distal femur are a gentle stabilization, an early load-bearing capacity and a rapid postoperative mobilization of the affected patients. For the therapy planning of PPF a standardized classification is necessary which leads to a clear and safe therapy recommendation. Despite different established classifications, there is none that includes the types of prosthesis used in the assessment. For this purpose, the objective of this work is to create a new more extensive fracture and implant-related classification of periprosthetic fractures of the distal femur based on available classifications which allows distinct therapeutic recommendations. METHODS: In a retrospective analysis all patients who were treated in the University Hospital Leipzig from 2010 to 2016 due to a distal femur fracture with total knee arthroplasty (TKA) were established. To create an implant-associated classification the cases were discussed in a panel of experienced orthopaedists and well-practiced traumatologists with a great knowledge in the field of endoprosthetics and fracture care. In this context, two experienced surgeons classified 55 consecutive fractures according to Su et al., Lewis and Rorabeck and by the new created classification. In this regard, the interobserver reliability was determined for two independent raters in terms of Cohen Kappa. RESULTS: On the basis of the most widely recognized classifications of Su et al. as well as Lewis and Rorabeck, we established an implant-dependent classification for PPF of the distal femur. In accordance with the two stated classifications four fracture types were created and defined. Moreover, the four most frequent prosthesis types were integrated. Finally, a new classification with 16 subtypes was generated based on four types of fracture and four types of prosthesis. Considering all cases the presented implant-associated classification (κ = 0.74) showed a considerably higher interobserver reliability compared to the other classifications of Su et al. (κ = 0.39) as well as Lewis and Rorabeck (κ = 0.31). Excluding the cases which were only assessable by the new classification, it still shows a higher interobserver reliability (κ = 0.70) than the other ones (κ = 0.63 or κ = 0.45). CONCLUSIONS: The new classification system for PPF of the distal femur following TKA considers fracture location and implant type. It is easy to use, shows agood interobserver reliability and allows conclusions to be drawn on treatment recommendations. Moreover, further studies on the evaluation of the classification are necessary and planned.

Evaluation of a multimodal pain therapy concept for chronic pain after total knee arthroplasty: a pilot study in 21 patients.

BACKGROUND: In spite of the improvement of many aspects around Total knee arthroplasty (TKA), there is still a group of 10% to 34% of patients who is not satisfied with the outcome. The therapy of chronic pain after TKA remains a medical challenge that requires an interdisciplinary therapy concept. The aim of this prospective pilot study was to evaluate the efficacy of a multimodal pain therapy in chronic complaints after TKA. METHODS: In a prospective cohort pilot study, we included patients with chronic pain after TKA who obtained in-patient care, especially multimodal pain therapy (MMPT), for at least 10 days. Essential elements of this therapy concept were physiotherapy, pain medication therapy, topical application of ketamine, local infiltration and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Patients with varying causes of complaints were excluded in advance. Before the start of the study all test persons were informed and gave their written consent. Moreover, each patient was examined and questioned at hospital admission, discharge and at its first as well as second follow-up. Additionally, knee joint mobility and stability were investigated at all examination times. RESULTS: From 03/07/2016 to 07/14/2016, 21 patients were included in the pilot study. 52% of the considered population were female (11 persons). The median age was 65 years (45-79 years) and the median stay in hospital amounted 9 days (8-14 days). The first follow-up was scheduled after six weeks (median: 38 days, 30-112 days) and the second one after six months (median: 8 months, 7-12 months). The number of patients of the first follow-up was 17 out of 21 (19% drop out). The drop out of the last follow-up accounted for 33%. All patients benefit from the presented applications and therapies with regard to pain, function and range of motion. Especially, during the period of in-patient treatment, nearly all patients have improved in all terms. However, during the first follow-up clear deteriorations occurred in all areas, which stagnated up to the second follow-up. The range of motion has even worsened slightly. CONCLUSIONS: With the presented pilot study on multimodal in-patient therapy of chronic complaints due to TKA, the improvement of pain, function and mobility could be verified, especially during the stationary stay. Even though the results deteriorate during the follow-up period, they did never relapse to their initial level. In order to ensure an effective treatment, a clear diagnostic algorithm is essential, by which treatable causes, such as low-grade infections or loosenings, are safely excluded. Further prospective studies are necessary to obtain precise statements on prospects of success of our therapy plan.

Silver-coated modular Megaendoprostheses in salvage revision arthroplasty after periimplant infection with extensive bone loss - a pilot study of 34 patients.

BACKGROUND: Hip and knee replacements in patients with bone defects after infection correlates with high rates of reinfection. In this vulnerable patient population, the prevention of reinfection is to be considered superordinate to the functionality and defect bridging. The use of silver coating of aseptic implants as an infection prophylaxis is already proven; however, the significance of these coatings in septic reimplantation of large implants is still not sufficiently investigated. METHODS: In a retrospective analysis, 34 patients who have been treated with a modular mega-endoprosthesis after a cured bone infection of the lower limb (femur or tibia) have been evaluated. One group with 14 patients (NSCG: non silver- coated group) was supplied with the non silver- coated implants: MML München- Lübeck™ modular endoprosthesis system (AQ Implants, Ahrensburg, Germany) or MUTARS® Modular Universal Tumor And Revision System (Implantcast GmbH, Buxtehude, Germany). The other group with 20 patients (SCG: silver- coated group) was supplied with the silver- coated system of MUTARS®. In addition to the clinical findings and the patients' histories, specifically the reinfection rates, the patients' mobility was assessed using the New Mobility Score (NMS, by Parker and Palmer). RESULTS: The median follow-up period was 72 months, ranging from 6 to 267 months. The dropout rate was 5.8%. The reinfection rate after healed reinfection in SCG was 40% (8/20), in NSCG 57% (8/14), p = 0.34; α =0.05. The time for reinfection was, on average, 14 months (1-72 months) in SCG and 8 months (1-48 months) in the NSCG (p = 0.61; α =0.05). The two groups showed no differences in the NMS. CONCLUSION: With this retrospective analysis, it can be determined that the rate of reinfection of modular mega-endoprostheses on the hip and knee joint after healed periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) can be reduced by the use of silver coated implants. The time until reinfection can also be delayed by utilizing silver coated implants. Due to the low number of cases of this highly specific patient population, no statistical significance could be determined. A positive effect, however, can be assumed through the use of silver coatings in mega-endoprostheses after an infectious situation.

Perioperative risk factors in patients with a femoral neck fracture - influence of 25-hydroxyvitamin D and C-reactive protein on postoperative medical complications and 1-year mortality.

BACKGROUND: This study examined the association of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and C-reactive protein (CRP) with postoperative medical complications and one year mortality of elderly patients sustaining a low-energy cervical hip fracture scheduled for surgery. We hypothesized that vitamin D deficiency and CRP in these patients might be associated with an increased 1-year mortality. METHODS: The prospective single-center cohort study included 209 patients with a low-energy medial femoral neck fracture; 164 women aged over 50 years and 45 men aged over 60 years. Referring to 1-year mortality and postoperative medical complications multiple logistic regression analysis including 10 co-variables (age, sex, BMI, ASA, creatinine, CRP, leukocytes hemoglobin, 25(OH)D, vitamin D supplementation at follow-up) was performed. RESULTS: Vitamin D deficiency was prevalent in 87 % of all patients. In patients with severe (<10 ng/ml) and moderate (10-20 ng/ml) vitamin D deficiency one year mortality was 29 % and 13 %, respectively, compared to 9 % in patients with > 20 ng/ml 25(OH)D levels (p =0.027). Patients with a mild (CRP 10-39.9 mg/l) or active inflammatory response (CRP ≥ 40 mg/l) showed a higher one year mortality of 33 % and 40 % compared to 16 % in patients with no (CRP < 10 mg/l) inflammatory response (p = 0.002). Multiple logistic regression analysis identified CRP (OR 1.01, 95 % CI 1.00-1.02; p = 0.007), but not 25(OH)D (OR 0.97, 95 % CI 0.89-1.05; p = 0.425) as an independent predictor for one year mortality. 20 % of patients suffered in-hospital postoperative medical complications (i.e. pneumonia, thromboembolic events, etc.). 25(OH)D (OR 0.89, 95 % CI 0.81-0.97; p = 0.010), but not CRP (OR 1.01, 95 % CI 1.00-1.02; p = 0.139), was identified as an independent risk factor. CONCLUSION: In elderly patients with low-energy cervical hip fracture, 25(OH)D is independently associated with postoperative medical complications and CRP is an independent predictor of one year mortality.

Are radiographic indices reliable indicators for quantitative bone mineral density and vitamin D status after femoral neck fractures? A retrospective study in 112 elderly patients.

BACKGROUND: Radiographic parameters and indices obtained from hip x-rays are a potential tool to promptly estimate bone quality in elderly hip fracture patients. Preoperative decision in whether to use cemented or cement augmented implants might be supported by this information and thus improve patient safety. Subsequently, this study was conducted to evaluate radiographic parameters as a prescreening tool for bone quality. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 112 elderly patients with a femoral neck fracture after low-energy trauma was performed (81 % female, 19 % male). Three radiological indices were calculated on hip x-rays: cortical index antero-posterior CTI (ap), cortical index lateral CTI (lat) and canal to calcar ratio CCR. These indices were analyzed for correlations with DXA T-Scores and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) using the Spearman test. RESULTS: Median age of patients was 80 (IQR 72-86) years. A linear correlation was found for CTI (lat) and T-Score at the total hip (p < 0.001, r = 0.589), femoral neck (p = 0.005, r = 0.405) and the lumbar spine (p = 0.002, r = 0.299). A significant correlation was also indicated between CTI (lat) and 25(OH)D (p = 0.002, r = 0.293). CTI (lat) at a cut-off level of 0.4 showed a sensitivity of 79 % and a specificity of 56 % in predicting a T-score ≤ -2.5 at the total hip. Gender specific analysis revealed a higher sensitivity (100 %) and specificity (73 %) of CTI (lat) at a cut-off level of 0.4 for men. For severe vitamin D deficiency (<10 ng/ml) sensitivity and specificity were 75 % and 65 %. CONCLUSION: Radiographic indices as the CTI (lat) exhibit a direct correlation to BMD and serum 25OH vitamin D levels. A CTI (lat) cut-off level of 0.4 is recommended for identifying patients at risk of osteoporosis expressed by T-Scores ≤ -2.5 and severe vitamin D deficiency.