Completion of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures Improved With Use of a Mobile Application in Arthroplasty Patients: Results From a Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: The collection of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) has historically been reported as costly and time-consuming, with low compliance rates that may impact reimbursement. Little research has reported the effects of mobile applications to support PROMs collection following arthroplasty. METHODS: Secondary analysis of data from a multicenter randomized controlled trial was performed. Patients undergoing knee and hip arthroplasty were randomized to utilize a smartphone-based care management platform (app) for self-directed rehabilitation and completed joint-specific PROMs (Hip Dysfunction and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, Joint Replacement or Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Score, Joint Replacement) via the application at prescribed intervals or on paper during clinic visits. Control patients received practice standard of care, and completed PROMs via emailed hyperlink or during clinic visits following lower limb arthroplasty. Overall, 455 patients underwent knee arthroplasty procedures (245 control, 210 app group) and 380 underwent total hip arthroplasty (206 control, 174 app group). Compliance with expected PROMs completion was calculated through one year postoperatively. RESULTS: Compliance was higher in the app group preoperatively in both knee (98.1 versus 86.9%, P < .0001) and hip cohorts (96.0 versus 88.4%, P = .008), and postoperatively, including at one year (knees, 72.2 versus 53.7%, P < .0001; hips, 71.1 versus 49.2%, P < .0001). On log-binomial regressions, intervention arm was the strongest predictor of completion of all PROMs, where app users undergoing knee (Relative Risk 2.039, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.595 to 2.607, P < .000) and hip arthroplasty (2.268 95% CI 1.742 to 2.953, P < .0001) were more likely to be compliant at all timepoints. The majority of patients in the app group, including those over 65 years of age, completed PROMs using the application as opposed to paper methods. CONCLUSIONS: A smartphone mobile application that engages patients during recovery after knee and hip joint arthroplasty improved compliance with completion of preoperative and postoperative PROMs compared to other electronic and paper methods.

Is There a Change in Anxiety and Depression Following Total Knee Arthroplasty?

BACKGROUND: The primary purpose of this study was to investigate whether anxiety and depression change following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). A secondary objective was to explore the association between preoperative variables and changes in anxiety and depression. METHODS: This was a prospective, multicenter, cohort study. Participants (n = 1,852, age 64 ± 8.7 years, a body mass index of 31.3, a modified Comorbidity Index of 1.0 ± 1.3, and 61.7% were women) completed the EuroQol 5-dimension 5-level preoperatively and at 1- and 3-month postoperatively. Fulfillment of physical activity expectations and preparedness to resume activities was assessed at 3 months. The anxiety or depression dimension was analyzed using the Paretian classification profile changes and compared with the sign Fisher's exact test. Logistic regressions were used to analyze the relationship between patient characteristics, preoperative anxiety or depression, activity expectations, preparedness to resume activities, and changes in anxiety/depression. RESULTS: The percentage of patients reporting Level 1 (no anxious or depressed feelings) significantly (P < .0001) increased from preoperative (62.2%) to 3 months (77.1%) postoperative, while levels 2 to 5 (slightly through extremely anxious or depressed) all decreased. The percentage of worsening anxiety and depression was significantly (P < .0001) greater in patients who did not feel they were well prepared to resume activities of daily living (17.7 versus 4.4%) and physical recreation (12.9 versus 3.9%). Preoperative anxiety and depression (odds ratio [OR] 52.27, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 34.98, 80.67), EuroQol 5-dimension 5-level (OR: 2.55, 95% CI: 1.04, 6.34), activity of daily living (OR: 1.57, 95% CI: 1.19, 2.06), and body mass index (OR: 1.05, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.08) were significant (P < .05) predictors of an improving Paretian change profile at 3 months postoperative. CONCLUSIONS: Anxiety and depression decrease following TKA, and these changes appear heavily dependent on a patient's preoperative psychological well-being and postoperative preparedness to resume daily activities. Physicians' awareness of preoperative patient psychological well-being and management of patient preparedness and expectations to resume physical activity may modulate postoperative anxiety and depression.

Impact of Chronic Opioid Use on Postoperative Mobility Recovery and Patient-Reported Outcomes: A Propensity-Matched Study.

BACKGROUND: Opioid use prior to total joint arthroplasty may be associated with poorer postoperative outcomes. However, few studies have reported the impact on postoperative recovery of mobility. We hypothesized that chronic opioid users would demonstrate impaired objective and subjective mobility recovery compared to nonusers. METHODS: A secondary data analysis of a multicenter, prospective observational cohort study in which patients used a smartphone-based care management platform with a smartwatch for self-directed rehabilitation following hip or knee arthroplasty was performed. Patients were matched 2:1 based on age, body mass index, sex, procedure, Charnley class, ambulatory status, orthopedic procedure history, and anxiety. Postoperative mobility outcomes were measured by patient-reported ability to walk unassisted at 90 days, step counts, and responses to the 5-level EuroQol-5 dimension 5-level, compared by Chi-square and student's t-tests. Unmatched cohorts were also compared to investigate the impact of matching. RESULTS: A total of 153 preoperative chronic opioid users were matched to 306 opioid-naïve patients. Age (61.9 ± 10.5 versus 62.1 ± 10.3, P = .90) and sex (53.6 versus 53.3% women, P = .95) were similar between groups. The proportion of people who reported walking unassisted for 90 days did not vary in the matched cohort (87.8 versus 90.7%, P = .26). Step counts were similar preoperatively and 1-month postoperatively but were lower in opioid users at 3 and 6 months postoperatively (4,823 versus 5,848, P = .03). More opioid users reported moderate to extreme problems with ambulation preoperatively on the 5-level EuroQol-5 dimension 5-level (80.6 versus 69.0%, P = .02), and at 6 months (19.2 versus 9.3%, P = .01). CONCLUSIONS: Subjective and objective measures of postoperative mobility were significantly reduced in patients who chronically used opioid medications preoperatively. Even after considering baseline factors that may affect ambulation, objective mobility metrics following arthroplasty were negatively impacted by preoperative chronic opioid use.

Patient satisfaction and patient-reported outcomes do not vary by BMI class in total hip arthroplasty.

PURPOSE: Obesity has been identified as a risk factor for postoperative complications in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA). This study aimed to investigate patient-reported outcomes, pain, and satisfaction as a function of body mass index (BMI) class in patients undergoing THA. METHODS: 1736 patients within a prospective observational study were categorized into BMI classes. Pre- and postoperative Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement (HOOS JR), satisfaction, and pain scores were compared by BMI class using one-way ANOVA. RESULTS: Healthy weight patients reported the highest preoperative HOOS JR (56.66 ± 13.35) compared to 45.51 ± 14.45 in Class III subjects. Healthy weight and Class III patients reported the lowest (5.65 ± 2.01) and highest (7.06 ± 1.98, p < 0.0001) preoperative pain, respectively. Changes in HOOS JR scores from baseline suggest larger improvements with increasing BMI class, where Class III patients reported an increase of 33.7 ± 15.6 points at 90 days compared to 26.1 ± 17.1 in healthy weight individuals (p = 0.002). Fewer healthy weight patients achieved the minimal clinically important difference (87.4%) for HOOS JR compared to Class II (96.5%) and III (94.7%) obesity groups at 90 days postoperatively. Changes in satisfaction and pain scores were largest in the Class III patients. Overall, no functional outcomes varied by BMI class postoperatively. CONCLUSION: Patients of higher BMI class reported greater improvements following THA. While risk/benefit shared decision-making remains a personalized requirement of THA, this study highlights that utilization of BMI cutoff may not be warranted based on pain and functional improvement.

Stepping Beyond Counts in Recovery of Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Prospective Study on Passively Collected Gait Metrics.

Gait quality parameters have been used to measure recovery from total hip arthroplasty (THA) but are time-intensive and previously could only be performed in a lab. Smartphone sensor data and algorithmic advances presently allow for the passive collection of qualitative gait metrics. The purpose of this prospective study was to observe the recovery of physical function following THA by assessing passively collected pre- and post-operative gait quality metrics. This was a multicenter, prospective cohort study. From six weeks pre-operative through to a minimum 24 weeks post-operative, 612 patients used a digital care management application that collected gait metrics. Average weekly walking speed, step length, timing asymmetry, and double limb support percentage pre- and post-operative values were compared with a paired-sample t-test. Recovery was defined as the post-operative week when the respective gait metric was no longer statistically inferior to the pre-operative value. To control for multiple comparison error, significance was set at p < 0.002. Walking speeds and step length were lowest, and timing asymmetry and double support percentage were greatest at week two post-post-operative (p < 0.001). Walking speed (1.00 ± 0.14 m/s, p = 0.04), step length (0.58 ± 0.06 m/s, p = 0.02), asymmetry (14.5 ± 19.4%, p = 0.046), and double support percentage (31.6 ± 1.5%, p = 0.0089) recovered at 9, 8, 7, and 10 weeks post-operative, respectively. Walking speed, step length, asymmetry, and double support all recovered beyond pre-operative values at 13, 17, 10, and 18 weeks, respectively (p < 0.002). Functional recovery following THA can be measured via passively collected gait quality metrics using a digital care management platform. The data suggest that metrics of gait quality are most negatively affected two weeks post-operative; recovery to pre-operative levels occurs at approximately 10 weeks following primary THA, and follows a slower trajectory compared to previously reported step count recovery trajectories.

Stepping beyond Counts in Recovery of Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective Study on Passively Collected Gait Metrics.

Advances in algorithms developed from sensor-based technology data allow for the passive collection of qualitative gait metrics beyond step counts. The purpose of this study was to evaluate pre- and post-operative gait quality data to assess recovery following primary total knee arthroplasty. This was a multicenter, prospective cohort study. From 6 weeks pre-operative through to 24 weeks post-operative, 686 patients used a digital care management application to collect gait metrics. Average weekly walking speed, step length, timing asymmetry, and double limb support percentage pre- and post-operative values were compared with a paired-samples t-test. Recovery was operationally defined as when the respective weekly average gait metric was no longer statistically different than pre-operative. Walking speed and step length were lowest, and timing asymmetry and double support percentage were greatest at week two post-operative (p < 0.0001). Walking speed recovered at 21 weeks (1.00 m/s, p = 0.063) and double support percentage recovered at week 24 (32%, p = 0.089). Asymmetry percentage was recovered at 13 weeks (14.0%, p = 0.23) and was consistently superior to pre-operative values at week 19 (11.1% vs. 12.5%, p < 0.001). Step length did not recover during the 24-week period (0.60 m vs. 0.59 m, p = 0.004); however, this difference is not likely clinically relevant. The data suggests that gait quality metrics are most negatively affected two weeks post-operatively, recover within the first 24-weeks following TKA, and follow a slower trajectory compared to previously reported step count recoveries. The ability to capture new objective measures of recovery is evident. As more gait quality data is accrued, physicians may be able to use passively collected gait quality data to help direct post-operative recovery using sensor-based care pathways.

An orthopaedic intelligence application successfully integrates data from a smartphone-based care management platform and a robotic knee system using a commercial database.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the feasibility of using a smartphone-based care management platform (sbCMP) and robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty (raTKA) to collect data throughout the episode-of-care and assess if intra-operative measures of soft tissue laxity in raTKA were associated with post-operative outcomes. METHODS: A secondary data analysis of 131 patients in a commercial database who underwent raTKA was performed. Pre-operative through six week post-operative step counts and KOOS JR scores were collected and cross-referenced with intra-operative laxity measures. A Kruskal-Wallis test or a Wilcoxon sign-rank was used to assess outcomes. RESULTS: There were higher step counts at six weeks post-operatively in knees with increased laxity in both the lateral compartment in extension and medial compartment in flexion (p < 0.05). Knees balanced in flexion within < 0.5 mm had higher KOOS JR scores at six weeks post-operative (p = 0.034) compared to knees balanced within 0.5-1.5 mm. CONCLUSION: A smartphone-based care management platform can be integrated with raTKA to passively collect data throughout the episode-of-care. Associations between intra-operative decisions regarding laxity and post-operative outcomes were identified. However, more robust analysis is needed to evaluate these associations and ensure clinical relevance to guide machine learning algorithms.

Is sequential bilateral robotic total knee arthroplasty a safe procedure? A matched comparative pilot study.

INTRODUCTION: To our knowledge, no papers have reported the results of robotic-assisted surgery for sequential bilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA). Indeed, sequential bilateral TKA present several benefits, as one single anesthesia, surgical episode, hospitalization, and rehabilitation. The purpose of our study was to evaluate peri-operative outcomes and compare the complication rates, clinical outcomes, and implant positioning of sequential bilateral TKA performed with a robotic-assisted system versus a conventional technique. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All patients who underwent a sequential bilateral robotic-assisted primary TKA (raTKA) in our institution between November 2019 and February 2021 were included. Twenty patients met the inclusion criteria and were matched with 20 sequential bilateral TKA performed with a conventional technique. The two groups were comparable for the demographic data and the preoperative parameters, including preoperative anticoagulation and ASA score. The minimum follow-up was 6 months. RESULTS: The operative time was significantly longer in the robotic group (< 0.0001), with a mean additional time of 29 min. There was no significant difference between both groups for postoperative blood loss, rate of blood transfusion, or postoperative pain. The average length of stay was 5 days. There was one early complication in the robotic group due to the tibial trackers. The functional outcomes were similar between both groups, except for the functional KSS score, which was better at 6 months in the robotic group (p < 0.0001). The restoration of the knee alignment and the distal femoral anatomy were significantly better in the robotic group than in the conventional group. CONCLUSIONS: Despite a longer operative time, the peri-operative parameters of sequential bilateral TKA were similar between robotic and conventional techniques. Further, sequential bilateral raTKA was at least as safe as a conventional technique, without additional risk of medical complications.

Outcomes of Rotating-hinge Total Knee Arthroplasty Following Complex Primary and Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty.

In complex primary and revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA), rotating-hinge TKA (RH-TKA) prostheses play an important role. Compared to early fixed-hinge knee designs, new implants that include rotating platforms and improved hinge constructs may offer improvements in both survival and clinical outcomes. We sought to evaluate early survival following complex primary and revision TKA with a rotating-hinge knee prosthesis. We retrospectively reviewed a consecutive series of patients (n=47, 48 knees) who underwent revision TKA using an RH-TKA system. The mean age was 73 years (range, 37 - 86). The mean body mass index was 29 (range, 16.3 - 45.9) and the median ASA score was 3 (IQR, 2 - 3). As mortality was high, we performed a Kaplan-Meier analysis to evaluate survival, with death as failure. The median follow-up was 2.5 years (range, 0.07 - 9.8). Revision-free survival was 97% at a median 2.5 years of follow-up. Overall mortality was 46% (17/37) and survival free from death was 69% (49% - 82%) at a median of 2.5 years. Most reoperations were due to infection (5/12), following by wound-related complications (2/12) and hematomas (2/12). A high postoperative complication rate and mortality are evident in TKA using a hinged knee prosthesis in complex revision TKA. If the indication and surgical technique are matched to the complexity of the case, this type of implant offers a feasible salvage procedure.

Socioeconomic Status May Not Be a Risk Factor for Periprosthetic Joint Infection.

BACKGROUND: Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a devastating complication after total joint arthroplasty, carrying significant economic and personal burden. The goal of this study is to use an established database to analyze socioeconomic variables and assess their relationship to PJI. Additionally, we sought to evaluate whether socioeconomic factors, along with other known risk factors of PJI, when controlled for in a statistical model affected the familial risk of PJI. METHODS: With approval from our Institutional Review Board we performed a population-based retrospective cohort study on all primary total joint arthroplasty cases of the hip or knee (n = 85,332), within a statewide database, between January 1996 and December 2013. We excluded 9854 patients due to age <18 years, missing data, history of PJI prior to index procedure, and no evidence of 2-year follow-up (excluding those with PJI). Cases that developed PJI following the index procedure (n = 2282) were compared to those that did not (n = 73,196). RESULTS: After adjusting for covariates, patients with Medicaid as a primary payer were at greater risk for experiencing PJI (relative risk 1.40, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08-1.82, P = .01). There was no difference in risk between the groups associated with education level or median household income (all, P > .05). First-degree relatives of patients who develop PJI (hazard ratio 1.66, 95% CI 1.23-2.24, P = .001) and first-degree and second-degree relatives combined (hazard ratio 1.39, 95% CI 1.09-1.77, P = .007) were at greater risk despite controlling for the above socioeconomic factors. CONCLUSION: Our study provides further support that genetic factors may underlie PJI as we did observe significant familial risk even after accounting for socioeconomic factors and payer status. We did not find a correlation between education level or household income and PJI; however, Medicaid payees were at increased risk. Continued study is needed to define a possible heritable disposition to PJI in an effort to optimize treatment and possibly prevent this complication.

Patients with a History of Treated Septic Arthritis are at High Risk of Periprosthetic Joint Infection after Total Joint Arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: In patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty (TJA), increasing attention has been directed recently toward identifying specific patient-related risk factors that may predispose patients to periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). Currently, it is unclear whether having a history of a treated native septic arthritis is a risk factor for PJI after TJA in the same joint. Previous studies have reported contradictory evidence and results varied between a substantially higher rates of PJIs to very low or no reported PJIs. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: (1) What is the risk of PJI in patients who received TJA and had a history of treated same-joint native joint septic arthritis and (2) What are the associated risk factors for these patients developing PJI? METHODS: This was a multicenter retrospective analysis of patients who received primary THA or TKA between January 2000 and December 2016 and who had a history of treated native joint septic arthritis in the same joint. Patients were included in the study only if they were considered to have resolved their joint infection based on a preoperative evaluation that included: (1) the absence of clinical symptoms and signs of active infection or local joint inflammation, (2) recent plain radiographs showing only advanced degenerative changes without evidence of active osteolysis or bone infection, (3) preoperative laboratory investigations for infection, including erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), and total leukocyte counts within normal ranges. Patients were reviewed for the occurrence of postoperative PJI. The final cohort included 62 patients who had a mean followup of 4.4 years (range, 3 months-17 years) from the time of TJA. A total of 21 patients (34%) had less than 2 years of followup, including six (10%) mortalities. In total, eight patients (13%) died during the study period, none of which were due to PJI. Patient characteristics, time interval from treatment of septic arthritis to TJA, and Charlson comorbidity index adjusted for age were collected. We used a Kaplan-Meier analysis to estimate the overall survivorship among all TJAs as well as those who underwent THA versus TKA, and we performed a statistical comparison using the Mantel-Cox log-rank test. We performed a Cox regression hazard ratio (HR) survival analysis to identify risk factors for PJI. The PJI odds ratios (OR) for patients who underwent TJA within 2 years of septic arthritis were calculated as an additional temporal analysis. RESULTS: In patients with a history of treated same-joint native septic arthritis, the proportion of PJI was five of 62 patients (8%). The Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated an overall survivorship free from PJI of 92% at 14.5 ± 1.14 years (95% confidence interval [CI] = 12.3-16.8 years). All PJI cases occurred only in patients who underwent TKA, which when analyzed separately, yielded a survivorship of 85% at 10.5 ± 0.9 years (95% CI = 8.7-12.3 years) versus 100% in patients who underwent THA (p = 0.068). Mean time to PJI occurrence was 10 months (range, 2-20 months). After controlling for relevant confounding variables, such as age, sex, affected joint and comorbidities, we found smoking (HR, 8.06; 95% CI, 1.33-48.67; p = 0.023) to be associated with increased risk for PJI development. CONCLUSION: Patients with history of native joint infections are at higher risk of PJI, especially smokers. Despite our limitations, this study suggests careful assessment of several other factors in these patients, including allowing a minimum interval of 2 years from the time of resolving native joint septic arthritis to TJA. Patients who are undergoing TKA seem to be more prone to the PJI risk and may benefit from more aggressive planning. In addition, medical optimization of comorbidities that may confer additional risk, such as diabetes, become exceptionally important in these patients. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, therapeutic study.

Mean Three-Year Survivorship of a New Bicruciate-Retaining Total Knee Arthroplasty: Are Revisions Still Higher Than Expected?

BACKGROUND: Given the need for continued post-market surveillance, especially on novel implants, the present study attempts to determine the 3-year survivorship and patient-reported outcomes of a contemporary bicruciate-retaining total knee arthroplasty design, and to determine if a learning curve existed which could explain previously reported revision rates. METHODS: We performed a retrospective review on a consecutive series of 141 bicruciate-retaining total knee arthroplasties performed at our institution between May 2013 and October 2015. Thirty-four knees (19%) missing 2-year follow-up were excluded. Mean follow-up was 3 years (range 0.34-4.9). Patients who died (n = 5) or were revised prior to 2 years (n = 6) were included. A Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to evaluate revision-free survival. RESULTS: Survivorship at 3 years was 88% (82%-93%). Revisions were for isolated tibial loosening (5/19), anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) impingement (3/19), pain (4/19), unknown reasons (3/19), femoral and tibial loosening (2/19), ACL deficiency (1/19), and arthrofibrosis (1/19). The mean physical function computerized adaptive test T-score was 45 units (range 23-63). The mean T-scores for Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Global measures were 49 (range 27-68) for physical health, 50 (range 28-68) for mental health, and a median 3 (interquartile range 1-8) on the numeric pain scale. CONCLUSION: Revision-free survival of 88% at 3 years was lower than existing traditional TKA designs. The primary failure mechanisms were tibial loosening, ACL impingement, and pain. In the setting of higher than anticipated revision rates, despite patient-reported outcomes that are not different than seen in the general population, it is possible that further refinement in implant design or surgical technique may be needed prior to widespread use of this, or similar implant designs.

Advantages of an Anterior-Based Muscle-Sparing Approach in Transitioning From a Posterior Approach for Total Hip Arthroplasty: Minimizing the Learning Curve.

BACKGROUND: Enthusiasm for anterior-based approaches for total hip arthroplasty (THA) continues to increase but there is concern for increased complications during the learning curve period associated. This study aimed to investigate if there was a difference in perioperative variables, intraoperative and immediate postoperative complications, or patient-reported outcomes when transitioning from a mini-posterior approach (mPA) to an anterior-based muscle-sparing (ABMS) approach for THA. METHODS: Retrospective cohort study on the first 100 primary THA cases (n = 96 patients) of the senior author (August 2016 to August 2017) using the ABMS approach. These cases were compared to primary THA cases done the year prior (July 2015 to July 2016, n = 91 cases in 89 patients) using an mPA. Data were extracted and analyzed via gamma regression with robust standard errors and using generalized estimating equation regression. RESULTS: We found no difference in the estimated blood loss (P = .452) and surgical time (P = .564) between the cohorts. The ABMS cases had a slightly shorter length of stay (P = .001) with an adjusted mean length of stay of 1.53 days (95% confidence interval 1.4-1.6) compared to 1.85 days (95% confidence interval 1.8-1.9) in the mPA cases. There was no difference in the frequency of immediate postoperative complications (all, P > .05). There was no difference in the adjusted mean change in patient-reported outcomes (all P > .05). In the ABMS group, there was no difference in surgical time or physical function computerized adaptive test between the first 20 cases (reference) and each subsequent group of 20 cases (all P > .05). CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates no associated learning curve for an experienced senior surgeon when switching routine THA approach from mPA to ABMS. We advise careful interpretation of our results, as they may not apply to all surgeons and practices. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III Therapeutic Study: retrospective comparative study.

A Chlorhexidine Solution Reduces Aerobic Organism Growth in Operative Splash Basins in a Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Despite recommendations against the use of splash basins, due to the potential of bacterial contamination, our observation has been that they continue to be used in operating theaters. In hopes of decontaminating the splash basin, we sought to determine if the addition of chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) would eliminate aerobic bacterial growth within the splash basin. METHODS: After Institutional Review Board approval, we began enrollment in a randomized controlled trial comparing 2 splash basin solutions. Splash basins (n = 111) were randomized to either the standard of care (control) solution of sterile water or the experimental solution containing 0.05% CHG. One 20 mL aliquot was taken from the basin at the end of the surgical case and delivered to an independent laboratory. Samples were plated on tryptic soy agar (medium) and incubated at 30°C-35°C to encourage growth. After 48-72 hours, the agar plates were examined for growth and a standard plate count of aerobic cultures was performed. RESULTS: The sterile water group was found to have bacterial growth in 9% of samples compared to no growth in the CHG group (P = .045). The organisms included Micrococcus luteus, Staphylococcus hominis, Gram-variable coccobacilli, and unidentifiable Gram-positive rods. CONCLUSION: Given the safety and efficacy of a concentration of 0.05% CHG in reducing the bacterial contamination in the operative splash basin, it would seem that if the practice of using a splash basin in the operating theater is to be continued, the addition of an antiseptic solution such as that studied here should be considered.

Improving Value in Total Joint Arthroplasty: A Comprehensive Patient Education and Management Program Decreases Discharge to Post-Acute Care Facilities and Post-Operative Complications.

BACKGROUND: A step-by-step approach to creating a comprehensive patient education, expectation, and management program is described with the aim of reducing discharges to post-acute care centers (PACs) following total joint arthroplasty (TJA). We hypothesized that by lowering discharges to PACs, readmissions and reoperations would also decrease. METHODS: Following the implementation of a multi-faceted patient education and management program, we retrospectively reviewed 927 TJAs who underwent surgery 12 months before (n = 465) and after (n = 462) the program was implemented. To assess the exposure of the pathway on discharge disposition as well as institutional 30-day and 90-day readmissions and reoperations, a modified Poisson regression was used. RESULTS: There was a 20% absolute reduction in discharges to PACs (<0.001). The frequency of 30-day readmissions was greater in patients who underwent TJA before implementation (incidence rate ratio [IRR] 1.93, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01-3.69). The risk for 90-day readmissions (IRR 1.70, 95% CI 1.20-2.40) and reoperations (IRR 1.67, 95% CI 1.12-2.53) was greater prior to implementation. Discharge to PACs was associated with 2.4 and 3.10 times greater risk for 30-day readmissions (95% CI 1.28-4.56) and 30-day reoperations (95% CI 1.40-7.0), respectively. Patients discharged to PACs were also at greater risk for both 90-day readmissions (IRR 1.59, 95% CI 1.08-2.32) and 90-day reoperations (IRR 1.75, 95% CI 1.12-2.73). CONCLUSION: Our program led to a reduction in the number of patients being discharged to PACs following TJA, while also demonstrating a reduction in readmission and reoperations. Additionally, discharge to these facilities was an independent risk factor for these complications.

Treated Versus Untreated Depression in Total Joint Arthroplasty Impacts Outcomes.

BACKGROUND: To determine if there was a difference in the change in patient-reported physical function (PF) between nondepressed and medically treated depressed or untreated depressed total joint arthroplasty (TJA) patients. METHODS: This is an Institutional Review Board exempt retrospective review of 280 TJA cases from March 2014 to May 2016. Patient-reported PF was measured as part of the routine care via the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System PF computerized adaptive test. Linear generalized estimating equation regression analyses were used. RESULTS: Untreated depressed cases demonstrated much smaller gains in PF scores compared to nondepressed patients (P = .020). Additionally, although treated and untreated depressed patients had statistically similar preoperative and postoperative PF scores (P > .05), untreated depressed cases experienced a lower magnitude of change (P = .015). CONCLUSION: Medically treated depressed patients may have similar PF gains as nondepressed patients. Larger prospective studies may help identify whether screening for untreated depression and subsequent treatment leads to improved outcomes.

Adding Value to Total Joint Arthroplasty Care in an Academic Environment: The Utah Experience.

BACKGROUND: Adding value in a university-based academic health care system provides unique challenges when compared to other health care delivery models. Herein, we describe our experience in adding value to joint arthroplasty care at the University of Utah, where the concept of value-based health care reform has become an embraced and driving force. METHODS: To improve the value, new resources were needed for care redesign, physician leadership, and engagement in alternative payment models. The changes that occurred at our institution are described. RESULTS: Real-time data and knowledgeable personnel working behind the scenes, while physicians provide clinical care, help move clinical pathway redesigns. Engaged physicians are essential to the successful implementation of value creation and care pathway redesign that can lead to improvements in value. An investment of money and resources toward added infrastructure and personnel is often needed to realize large-scale improvements. Alignment of providers, payers, and hospital administration, including by means of gainsharing programs, can lead to improvements. CONCLUSION: Although significant care pathway redesign efforts may realize substantial initial cost savings, savings may be asymptotic in nature, which calls into question the likely sustainability of programs that incentivize or penalize payments based on historical targets.

The Recovery Curve for the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Patient-Reported Physical Function and Pain Interference Computerized Adaptive Tests After Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: We sought to characterize the typical recovery in physical function (PF) and pain interference (PI) after TKA using Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures. METHODS: Ninety-one patients were enrolled into an institutional review board -approved prospective observational study. PROs were obtained preoperatively and postoperatively at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year. PROs included the PROMIS PF computerized adaptive test (CAT) and the PROMIS PI CAT. Generalized estimating equations were used to evaluate outcomes over time. RESULTS: There was no difference in the preoperative and 6-week postoperative T-scores for the PF CAT (P = .410). However, all subsequent postoperative T-scores were greater than the preoperative T-score (all, P < 0.05). There was a significant reduction in PI CAT T-scores between the preoperative and all subsequent postoperative T-scores (all, P < .05). A clinically important difference in PF CAT T-scores (ß = 5.44, 95% confidence interval 4.10-6.80; P < .001) and PI CAT T-scores (ß = -7.46, 95% confidence interval -9.52 to -5.40; P < 0.001) was seen between the preoperative and 3-month postoperative visits. Sixty-three percent of the improvement in PF occurred by 3 months, and 89% had occurred by 6 months. The majority of reduction in PI (68%) occurred by 3 months and 90% had occurred by 6 months. CONCLUSION: The greatest magnitude of improvement in both PF and PI occurred within the first 3 months. After 6 months, patients might expect modest improvements in PF and mild reductions of PI. Patients and surgeons should use this information for setting expectations, planning for recovery, and improving care.

Press Ganey Outpatient Medical Practice Survey Scores Do Not Correlate With Patient-Reported Outcomes After Primary Joint Arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: Patient delivery of care satisfaction surveys have emerged as instruments to assess the quality of health care at both the hospital and provider levels. We evaluated the correlation between these care satisfaction surveys and patient-reported outcomes (PROs). METHODS: We reviewed secondary data on 540 patients with 540 random visits who underwent primary total joint arthroplasty between January 2014 and February 2017. The Press Ganey Outpatient Medical Practice Survey was collected from outpatient clinical encounters to measure patient satisfaction with their experience and matched to PRO measures from the same encounter. The PROs evaluated included the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System physical function computerized adaptive test, v1.2, and the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Global 10 health survey. In addition to the random selection, we reviewed separate cross-sections of the data including preoperative visits within 90 days of the index procedure, all postoperative visits at least 1 year from the index procedure, and the magnitude of change in PRO scores from preoperative to a minimum 1-year postoperative visit. Data were evaluated using the Spearman correlation coefficient (rs). RESULTS: There was little if any correlation between the Press Ganey scores and PROs at all time points evaluated (all, rs: -0.13 to 0.14). When evaluating knee and hip arthroplasty cases separately, the data demonstrated similar results (all, rs: -0.33 to 0.18). CONCLUSION: We found little, if any, correlation between a patient's satisfaction with their care experience and their own perception of physical function and global health measures at all time points evaluated. These data question the utility of these scores as surrogate measures of health care quality, especially when reimbursements become tied to these metrics.

Acetabular Wall Indices Help to Distinguish Acetabular Coverage in Asymptomatic Adults With Varying Morphologies.

BACKGROUND: The anterior wall index (AWI) and posterior wall index (PWI) have been proposed to quantify anterior and posterior acetabular coverage using AP pelvic radiographs. However, these indices have only been reported in symptomatic patients with apparent pathomorphologies (dysplasia, overcoverage, and retroversion) undergoing osteochondroplasty or reorientation osteotomy. QUESTIONS: (1) What are the ranges for AWI and PWI from measurements obtained on AP pelvic radiographs of asymptomatic senior athletes with well-functioning hips? (2) Is there a difference between the AWI and PWI in asymptomatic athletes with acetabular morphology consistent with acetabular dysplasia, overcoverage, and retroversion when compared with asymptomatic hips that do not meet the radiographic definitions for those morphologies (controls)? METHODS: Five hundred five athletes (998 asymptomatic native hips) were independently evaluated by two readers on AP pelvic radiographs for AWI and the PWI after excluding hips with prior surgery, inadequate radiographs, or poor function (modified Harris hip score < 80). Hips with a lateral center-edge angle (LCEA) ≥ 20° and ≤ 38° and without acetabular retroversion, based on a positive crossover sign, were used as controls. Hips were categorized as developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH; undercoverage) if the LCEA was < 20°. Finally, overcoverage was defined as an LCEA > 38°. The mean age of the athletes was 67 years (range, 50-91 years) and 55% were men. Linear generalized estimating equation regression was used to compare each individual diagnosis (DDH, retroversion, overcoverage) with the controls for both AWI and PWI adjusting for age and sex. RESULTS: The mean AWI in the study population was 0.36 (range, -0.02 to 0.91). The mean PWI was 1.13 (range, 0.12-1.74). The mean AWI and PWI in controls (n = 740) was 0.35 (range, -0.02 to 0.91) and 1.13 (range, 0.64-1.70), respectively. There were 25 (3%) with DDH in whom the mean AWI was 0.26 (range, 0.05-0.5) and the mean PWI was 1.03 (range, 0.71-1.3). There were 112 (11%) retroverted hips in whom the mean AWI was 0.42 (range, 0.1-0.89) and PWI was 1.02 (range, 0.61-1.5). There were 121 (12%) overcovered hips in whom the mean AWI was 0.43 (range, -0.18 to 0.85) and PWI was 1.22 (0.12-1.74). The AWI in the control hips was no different than that of DDH hips (ß -0.06; 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.12 to 0.002; p = 0.059) but was found to be lower than retroverted hips (ß 0.08; 95% CI, 0.04-0.11; p < 0.001) and overcovered hips (ß 0.05; 95% CI, 0.03-0.08; p < 0.001). The PWI in control hips was greater than that of DDH hips (ß -0.08; 95% CI, -0.14 to -0.02; p = 0.013) and retroverted hips (ß -0.07; 95% CI, -0.11 to -0.04; p < 0.001) but was less than overcovered hips (ß 0.07; 95% CI, 0.04-0.10; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The measurements of AWI and PWI in well-functioning, asymptomatic hips may be useful in assessing anterior and posterior acetabular coverage because it was able to distinguish between different types of known pathologic morphology. Despite evidence of these morphologic variances, these senior athletes continued to function at a high level. Thus, the identification of morphologic variance was not consistent with signs of pathology, which further supports that early screening of morphology may not predict the development of symptomatic pathology. Future work should focus on comparing these indices for morphologic variance in both symptomatic and asymptomatic hips to determine whether these measurements can be used in identifying problematic hips and as reference ranges for surgical correction. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, diagnostic study.