Medium-term outcomes of conventional versus short uncemented femoral stems for primary total hip arthroplasty in patients younger than 55 years.

BACKGROUND: Short stems are designed with a bone preservation philosophy in mind. This study aims to compare the outcomes/complications and survival of a collarless fully hydroxyapatite (HA)-coated conventional tapered stem and a HA-coated partial neck-retaining uncemented short stem in patients ⩽55 years old at medium-term follow-up. METHODS: We retrospectively studied 247 uncemented THAs operated between 2010 and 2014, comparing 146 patients treated with the fully HA-coated collarless stem (Group A) with 101 patients treated with a partial neck preserving, HA-coated short stem (Group B). 87 and 62 males were in groups A and B, respectively (p = 0.11). The mean age of the series was 46 years (17-55) (p =0.16). The mean follow-up of groups A and B were 9.9 (7-12) years and 9.7 (7-12) years, respectively (p =0.21). RESULTS: Mean Harris Hip Score improved from 55 to 92 in group A (p <0.001) and from 54 to 95 in group B (p <0.001), without differences between groups. Mean femoral neck length preservation in groups A and B was 13.6 (0-28) mm and 26 (11-38) mm, respectively (p =0.001). 13 (8.9%) and 1 (1%) patients in groups A and B presented postoperative complications, respectively (p =0.008). The conventional stem group had more aseptic loosening (Group A 3.4% vs. Group B 0%, p =0.06) along with more Symptomatic radiolucent lines (Group A 3.4% vs. Group B 0%, p =0.06). CONCLUSIONS: Both conventional and short stems showed excellent implant survival rates and functional outcomes at a mean follow-up of 9.8 years. However, complications and radiolucent lines were more frequent with a collarless conventional-length stem. Bone preservation of the femoral neck and diaphysis may be preferred in active young patients.

Late Periprosthetic Femoral Stress Fracture Associated with Extra-articular Deformity in a Patient with Fibrous Dysplasia: A Case Report.

CASE: In the setting of a total hip arthroplasty performed in a patient with a proximal femoral deformity, atraumatic periprosthetic femoral stress fracture may arise as a complication. We report a rare case of a late periprosthetic femoral stress fracture around a cemented stem in a patient with a history of fibrous dysplasia of the proximal femur. After a 10-year uneventful period, the patient complained about a subtle, subacute pain in his left thigh induced by exercise but not with daily axial load. Diagnosis of a nondisplaced, incomplete (i.e., only compromising the lateral femoral cortex) periprosthetic femoral stress fracture was made with plain radiographs, blood work, and bone scintigraphy. Surgical treatment consisted of a minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis bridging the femoral deformity plus percutaneous osteoperiosteal decortication. At 5-year follow-up, the patient was asymptomatic with full return to physical activity, with radiographs evidencing callus formation. CONCLUSION: Stress fractures around well-fixed femoral stems, while infrequent, should be addressed in patients with a history of severe proximal femur deformity experiencing atraumatic thigh pain.

Assessment of Medical and Social Risk Factors Before Arthroplasty in Argentina: A Poll of Argentinian Hip and Knee Association (ACARO) Members.

BACKGROUND: Assessment of risk factors is crucial for lowering complication rates and costs of hip and knee arthroplasty. The objective of this study was to assess if members of the Argentinian Hip and Knee Association (ACARO) are influenced by such risk factors when planning surgery. METHODS: In 2022, a survey was distributed as an electronically based questionnaire to 370 members of the ACARO. A descriptive analysis was performed on 166 proper answers (44.9%). RESULTS: There were 68% of the respondents who were specialists in joint arthroplasty and 32% practiced general orthopedics. A large number had large volumes at private hospitals without service/residents and 48.2% had been in practice for more than 15 years. Of the responding surgeons, 99% routinely performed a preoperative reversible risk factors evaluation that considered diabetes, malnutrition, weight, and smoking, and 95% canceled/postponed the surgery for abnormalities. Malnutrition was important for 79% of the polled with blood albumin being used by 69.3%. Fall risk assessment was performed by 60.2% of the surgeons. Only 44% of the surgeons felt free to choose the implant for the arthroplasty, possibly because 69.9% work for a capitated system. Important delays for surgery were reported by 63.9 and 84.3% had waiting lists. 74.7% of the polled noted physical or psychological deterioration during such delays. CONCLUSION: Socioeconomic factors firmly impact on the accessibility to arthroplasty in Argentina. Despite these barriers, the qualitative analysis of this poll let us demonstrate greater awareness of preoperative risk factors, especially diabetes as the most reported comorbidity.

Anterior Center-Edge Angle Is Less Reliable Than Anterior Wall Index to Predict Anterior Coverage of the Femoral Head.

BACKGROUND: No consensus is available regarding which radiographic measurement most accurately correlates with anterior coverage of the femoral head. PURPOSE: (1) To determine the correlation between 2 measurements of anterior wall coverage: total anterior coverage (TAC) calculated from radiographs and equatorial anterior acetabular sector angle (eAASA) calculated from computed tomography (CT) scans; (2) to define the correlation between anterior center-edge angle (ACEA) and anterior wall index (AWI) with TAC and eAASA; and (3) to investigate what other radiographic metrics may help predict anterior coverage. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study (Diagnosis); Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: The authors retrospectively reviewed 77 hips (48 patients) for which radiographs and CT scans were obtained for reasons other than hip-related pain. Mean age of the population was 62 ± 22 years; 48 (62%) hips were from female patients. Two observers measured lateral center-edge angle (LCEA), AWI, Tönnis angle, ACEA, CT-based pelvic tilt, and CT-based acetabular version, with all Bland-Altman plots within 95% agreement. Correlation between intermethod measurements was estimated with a Pearson coefficient. Linear regression was used to test the ability of baseline radiographic measurements to predict both TAC and eAASA. RESULTS: Pearson coefficients were r = 0.164 (ACEA vs TAC; P = .155), r = 0.170 (ACEA vs eAASA; P = .140), r = 0.58 (AWI vs TAC; P = .0001), and r = 0.693 (AWI vs eAASA; P < .0001). Multiple linear regression model 1 showed that AWI (ß = 17.8; 95% CI, 5.7 to 29.9; P = .004), CT acetabular version (ß = -0.45; 95% CI, -0.71 to -0.22; P = .001), and LCEA (ß = 0.33; 95% CI, 0.19 to 0.47; P = .001) were useful to predict TAC. Multiple linear regression model 2 revealed that AWI (ß = 25; 95% CI, 15.67 to 34.4; P = .001), CT acetabular version (ß = -0.48; 95% CI, -0.67 to -0.29; P = .001), CT pelvic tilt (ß = 0.26; 95% CI, 0.12 to 0.4; P = .001), and LCEA (ß = 0.21; 95% CI, 0.1 to 0.3; P = .001) accurately predicted eAASA. Model-based estimates and 95% CIs using 2000 bootstrap samples from the original data were 6.16 to 28.6 for AWI in model 1 and 15.1 to 34.26 for AWI in model 2. CONCLUSION: There was a moderate to strong correlation between AWI and both TAC and eAASA, whereas ACEA correlated weakly with the former measurements, thus not being useful to quantify anterior acetabular coverage. Other variables such as LCEA, acetabular version, and pelvic tilt may also help predict anterior coverage in asymptomatic hips.

Do nonagenarians have more complications and unplanned readmissions than octogenarians following primary THA? A retrospective cohort study.

INTRODUCTION: The performance of total hip arthroplasty in elderly patients, especially nonagenarians, is challenging due to higher patient frailty and medical comorbidities. We compared 90-day postoperative complications and unplanned readmissions between nonagenarians and octogenarians undergoing elective THA. METHODS: One hundred and eleven patients undergoing elective, unilateral THA were retrospectively analyzed. Forty-four patients were nonagenarians (Group A), and 67 patients were octogenarians (Group B). Demographic data included age, gender, body mass index (BMI), ASA score and Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). Frailty was defined according to the Rockwood Frailty Index. All patients underwent a thorough preoperative assessment through a specific institutional clinical pathway created for this matter. Postoperative adverse events were grouped into major or minor. A regression model was used to evaluate independent risk factors for the development of complications. RESULTS: There were no differences in the ASA score (65.9% vs. 53.7% ASA III-IV), prevalence of frailty (1% vs. 9%) and comorbidities between both groups (p > .05). The CCI was higher in nonagenarians (p = 0.007). Nonagenarians had more in-hospital complications, although most were minor (p = 0.002), none of which resulted in mortality. Ninety-day unplanned readmissions were similar between groups, with 4 (9.1%) and 6 (9%) in groups A and B, respectively (p = 1). Although age was a factor associated with the development of postoperative complications in the univariate regression model (OR 3.81, 95% CI 1.31 to 11.11, p = 0.014), it lost significance after performing the multivariate analysis (OR 2.48, 95% CI 0.78 to 7.90, p = 0.125). CONCLUSION: The age of 90 years old was not a barrier to perform elective THA safely. Nonagenarians had higher in-hospital minor complications when compared to the younger cohort. However, age over 90 years was not an independent risk factor for unplanned readmissions or mortality. Multimodal protocols of perioperative care are paramount for improving outcomes after THA in very old patients.

Vástagos femorales cortos para el reemplazo total de cadera primario en pacientes jóvenes. Resultados clínicos y biomecánicos / Short femoral stems for primary total hip arthroplasty in young patients. Clinical and biomechanical outcomes

La artroplastia total de cadera es una cirugía eficaz para tratar la artrosis. Con el aumento de la necesidad de una mejor calidad de vida, este procedimiento se está realizando en pacientes más jóvenes. Pero, con la mayor expectativa de vida, también crece la demanda de múltiples cirugías de revisión para el mismo paciente. Esto plantea desafíos técnicos debido a la pérdida de hueso. Existe una necesidad creciente de identificar implantes duraderos y altamente funcionales que sean adecuados para la revisión futura. Aunque los vástagos femorales cementados eran la opción principal en el pasado, los vástagos femorales no cementados han logrado una fijación a largo plazo y excelentes resultados. Sin embargo, aún se pueden mejorar algunos problemas relacionados con la fijación. Los vástagos femorales cortos han sido desarrollados para abordar algunos de estos desafíos, mientras se mantienen los buenos resultados obtenidos con los vástagos convencionales. En este artículo, se analiza la experiencia tras 10 años de uso de vástagos femorales cortos en cirugías de cadera en pacientes jóvenes. Se comparan los resultados biomecánicos y la preservación ósea femoral, se reportan los resultados posoperatorios en relación con el regreso al deporte, y se evalúan las complicaciones relacionadas con su uso. El empleo de vástagos cortos en cirugía primaria de cadera brinda múltiples ventajas. La indicación de este tipo de implante está justificada en pacientes jóvenes y activos, con el objetivo de reproducir los resultados de los implantes convencionales con un menor consumo de hueso y la posibilidad de una revisión futura. Nivel de Evidencia: IV

Total hip arthroplasty is an effective surgery to treat osteoarthritis. Given the rising demand for a higher quality of life, this procedure is being performed on increasingly younger patients. However, a longer life expectancy is also tied to a higher demand for multiple revision surgeries for the same patient. This poses technical challenges due to bone loss. There is a growing need to identify durable and highly functional implants that are suitable for future revision. Although cemented femoral stems were the main option in the past, uncemented femoral stems have demonstrated long-term fixation and excellent results. However, some issues related to fixation can still be improved. Short femoral stems have been developed to address some of these challenges while maintaining the good results obtained with conventional stems. This study analyzes the experience after 10 years of using short femoral stems in hip surgeries on young patients. Biomechanical outcomes and femoral bone preservation are compared, postoperative outcomes regarding return to sports are reported, and complications related to their use are evaluated. Short stems have multiple advantages when used in primary hip surgery. The indication for this type of implant is justified in young and active patients, to reproduce the results of conventional implants with less bone consumption and the possibility of future revision. Level of Evidence: IV

Successful hip revision surgery following refracture of a modern femoral stem using a cortical window osteotomy technique: A case report and review of literature.

BACKGROUND: The ExeterTM Universal cemented femoral component is widely used for total hip replacement surgery. Although there have been few reports of femoral component fracture, removal of a broken femoral stem can be a challenging procedure. CASE SUMMARY: A 54-year-old man with a Dorr A femur sustained a refracture of a primary ExeterTM stem, two years after receiving a revision using a cement-within-cement technique (CWC) through an extended trochanteric osteotomy (ETO). The technical problems related to the CWC technique and the ETO played a major role in the stem fatigue refracture. We performed revision surgery and removed the distal cement using a cortical femoral window technique, followed by re-implantation with an uncemented, modular, distally-fixed uncemented stem. The patient experienced an uneventful postoperative recovery. CONCLUSION: Re-fracture of a modern femoral ExeterTM stem is a rare event, but technical complications related to revision surgery can lead to this outcome. The cortical window osteotomy technique can facilitate the removal of a broken stem and cement, allowing for prosthetic re-implantation under direct vision and avoiding ETO-related complications.

Feasibility of total hip arthroplasty in cerebral palsy patients: a systematic review on clinical outcomes and complications.

PURPOSE: Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a successful treatment for hip osteoarthritis secondary to hip dysplasia. However, the reported rate of complications following THA in the settings of neuromuscular diseases is high. This systematic review aimed to analyze the indications, functional outcomes and surgical failures of primary THA in cerebral palsy (CP) patients. METHODS: MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched, and all clinical studies focusing on THA in patients with CP from inception through March 2020 were included. The methodological quality was assessed with Guo et al.'s quality appraisal checklist for case series and case-control studies, while cohort and prospective studies were evaluated with a modified version of the Downs and Black's quality assessment checklist. RESULTS: The initial search returned 69 studies out of which 15, including 2732 THAs, met the inclusion criteria. The most frequent indication for THA was dislocated painful hip for which previous non-operative treatment had failed. Complications presented in 10 to 45% of cases. The most frequently reported complication was dislocation (1-20%), followed by component loosening (0.74-20%). Aseptic component loosening was the most frequent cause of revision surgery, followed by dislocation and periprosthetic fracture. Mean implant survival at ten years was 84% (range 81-86%). CONCLUSION: The available literature suggests that although THA is a beneficial procedure in CP patients, it has a higher rate of complications and worse implant survival than the general population.

Impaction Bone Grafting for Severe Femoral Bone Loss: Surgical Technique in Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty.

Revision total hip arthroplasty in the setting of extensive femoral bone loss poses a considerable challenge to the adult reconstructive surgeon. When the proximal femoral bone stock is deficient or absent, there are few options for reconstruction. In such cases, treatment options include distal cementless fixation (either modular or nonmodular), impaction bone grafting (IBG), a megaprosthesis, or even an allograft-prosthesis composite. Each of these procedures has advantages and disadvantages related to bone preservation, surgical timing, and complexity (depending on the learning curve). For its capacity of restoring bone stock, we have been utilizing the IBG technique at our center since August 1987. The aim of the present article was to describe a step-by-step femoral IBG procedure for severe proximal femoral circumferential bone loss, highlighting its current indications and contraindications. Description: The specific steps to perform this procedure include (1) preoperative planning; (2) positioning of the patient and surgical approach; (3) cautious removal of the previous components; (4) preparation of the bone graft; (5) implantation of the appropriate IBG revision system, restoring bone loss from distal to proximal and utilizing metal mesh as needed; (6) implantation of the new stem, bypassing the defect; and (7) aftercare with protected weight-bearing in order to avoid subsidence of the stem and periprosthetic fracture. Alternatives: There are several alternatives to the IBG technique in the setting of revision total hip arthroplasty with extensive femoral bone loss. These alternatives include distal cementless fixation (either modular or nonmodular), a megaprosthesis, or an allograft-prosthesis composite. Rationale: The rationale for use of the IBG technique is restoration of bone stock. Although this issue may be irrelevant in low-demand elderly patients, we believe it is of the utmost importance among young (i.e., <60 years old) and active patients. This technique is versatile enough to be utilized in different scenarios such as periprosthetic fracture, periprosthetic joint infection (2-stage protocols), and aseptic loosening. Expected Outcomes: We have reported favorable clinical and radiographic outcomes for the treatment of both aseptic and septic femoral component loosening. In all cases, we utilized vancomycin-supplemented impacted cancellous allograft without evidence of secondary effects with regard to bone incorporation, nephrotoxicity, or allergic reactions. Although it was initially contraindicated, we further extended the indication for this reconstruction alternative to cases of circumferential proximal bone loss with non-neoplastic bone defects of ≤15 cm, utilizing encompassing metal mesh and a bypassing long stem. Recently, we reported on poorer outcomes following IBG compared with the use of uncemented modular stems for the treatment of type B3 periprosthetic femoral fractures, with a significantly higher rate of infection and implant breakage for the former treatment. Nowadays, we advocate the use of this technique in young, active patients (i.e., <60 years old) with a femoral bone defect Paprosky grade IIIB or IV, in which reconstitution of bone stock is crucial to avoid an eventual implant failure in the long term. Important Tips: This technique requires an experienced team. This procedure should be avoided in the presence of active periprosthetic joint infection.The gluteus maximus tendon should be detached to avoid tensioning the sciatic nerve and to decrease the chance of periprosthetic femoral fracture.Massive bone loss can jeopardize correct implant orientation and restoration of biomechanics. In this scenario, surgeons might consider the intercondylar axis as a guide for femoral version.Try to avoid (if possible) trochanteric or extended trochanteric osteotomy because proximal bone stock is necessary to contain the bone grafts. In some cases, such as those in which the removal of the stem is difficult, especially with certain uncemented stem designs, an extended trochanteric osteotomy must be performed. Whether or not a cemented stem is removed, it is mandatory to remove all remaining cement in the femoral canal.Preoperative templating is a necessity to reconstruct leg length. Accurately determining the length of the mesh is the most important step to avoid shortening or overlengthening of the lower extremity.Approximately 10 cm of circumferential metal mesh should be fixed with 3 to 5 double cerclage metal wires to the remaining bone. The new femoral stem should bypass extend beyond the mesh for approximately 5 cm. If the stem does not bypass the mesh, there is an increased risk of postoperative fracture.In order to decrease the risk of intraoperative femoral fracture, the distal aspect of the femur should be secured with cerclage wires, and the proximal aspect of the femur should also be protected with cerclage wires over the mesh. As in any other complex femoral revision procedure, torsional forces in the supracondylar zone should be avoided, especially during trial or stem reduction maneuvers.Always utilize a bone graft mixed with antibiotic powder.Retrograde cementation must be done with cement that is in a more liquid state than in primary total hip arthroplasty. Acronyms & Abbreviations: PO = postoperativePMMA = polymethyl methacrylateIV = intravenousLMWH = low molecular weight heparinDVT/EP = deep vein thrombosis and extended prophylaxis.

Adverse Local Tissue Reaction Associated With Ceramic-On-Metal Bearing Surface in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty: Report of Two Cases.

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is one of the most common and successful surgical procedures worldwide. At the same time, it is constantly evolving, and as a consequence, advances in implant technology have led to significant improvements in the different materials of the acetabular and femoral components. The selection of bearing surfaces and their tribology are critical to achieving a successful outcome. Pseudotumors are important, and usually misdiagnosed, complications associated with hard bearing surfaces such as metal-on-metal couples. They belong to a group of reactions called adverse local tissue reaction, which can occur in the vicinity of any THA. We present 2 cases of adverse local tissue reaction associated with the use of ceramic-on-metal bearings surfaces in 2 primary THAs that were treated with modular component exchange during single-stage revision surgery. Level of Evidence: IV.

Preliminary outcomes of the cementless UNITED hip system for primary total hip arthroplasty at a minimum 2-year follow-up.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to report the initial results of the cementless UNITED hip system in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. METHODS: We retrospectively studied a consecutive series of 203 cementless THAs in 180 patients operated between 2015-2017. We included 89 female and 91 male patients with a mean age of 67 (28 to 89) years. The mean follow-up was 40 (29 to 62) months. Clinical outcome scores and radiographs were measured. Survival was calculated defining failure as the need for any further femoral or acetabular revision, irrespective of the reason. RESULTS: No femoral component loosening was detected. One patient had a Vancouver-B1 intraoperative periprosthetic femoral fracture treated with implant retention and cerclage wires. Two acetabular components were revised for aseptic loosening. Three patients suffered an acute infection treated with debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention. The mean Merle d'Aubigné et Postel scores improved from 13 (4 to 16) points preoperatively to 17 (12 to 18) points at the latest follow-up (p < 0.001). At a mean time of 40 months of follow-up, the survival was 99% and 100% for the acetabular and the femoral components, respectively. CONCLUSION: This cementless design showed excellent preliminary outcomes in terms of fixation and patient satisfaction, comparable to that of other well-known similar systems.

Artroplastía total de cadera primaria con vástagos cortos en pacientes menores de 20 años / Primary total hip arthroplasty with short stems in patients under 20 years old

Introducción: El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar los resultados clínicos, radiográficos y funcionales en pacientes <20 años sometidos a artroplastia total de cadera con vástago femoral tipo 2B corto no cementado. Materiales y Métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo de 13 pacientes (16 artroplastias totales de cadera) operados entre enero de 2006 y enero de 2021. La edad media y el índice de masa corporal eran de 16.5 ± 2.5 años y 22,74 ± 4,06 kg/m2, respectivamente. El seguimiento medio fue de 43.3 meses (rango 12-128, DE ± 33.45). Se analizaron las indicaciones quirúrgicas, y los resultados funcionales y radiográficos. La supervivencia del implante se calculó con la estimación de Kaplan-Meier. Resultados: La indicación predominante fue necrosis avascular (9/16 caderas [56%]), el 66% estaba asociada al uso prolongado de corticoides. El HHS para cadera mejoró significativamente de 33 ± 16,5 a 94 ± 5,6 (p <0,001). Diez (76%) pacientes usaban dispositivos de asistencia para caminar antes de la artroplastia, pero ninguno los necesitaba al final del seguimiento. Se observó radiolucidez en un componente acetabular sin repercusión clínica hasta el final del seguimiento. No se registraron signos radiográficos de aflojamiento del componente femoral. La supervivencia del implante fue del 100% hasta el final del seguimiento. Conclusiones: La artroplastia total de cadera primaria con un vástago femoral corto no cementado en pacientes <20 años con artrosis avanzada de cadera logró resultados equiparables a los ya publicados, con la particularidad de que es un procedimiento menos invasivo y ahorra capital óseo femoral. Nivel de Evidencia: IV

Introduction: To our knowledge, there is no published literature on the outcomes of short-stem total hip arthroplasty (THA) in patients under 20 years old. This study aimed to analyze clinical, radiological, and functional outcomes in patients under 20 years of age undergoing THA with a short uncemented 2B femoral stem. Materials and Methods: We carried out a retrospective study of 13 patients (16 THAs) treated between January 2006 and January 2021. The mean age and BMI were 16.5±2.5 years and 22.74±4.06 kg/m2, respectively. The mean follow-up was 43.3 months (range 12-128, SD ± 33.45). Surgical indications, as well as functional and radiologic outcomes, were analyzed. Implant survival was calculated with the Kaplan-Meier estimate. Results: The predominant indication was avascular necrosis (9/16 hips [56%]), of which 66% were associated with prolonged use of cor-ticosteroids. Eight (50%) of the cases had undergone surgeries before the THA. The Harris hip score improved significantly from 33±16.5 to 94±5.6 (p<0.001). Ten (76%) patients required assistive devices to walk preoperatively, and no patient required them at the end of follow-up. Radiolucency was evident in one acetabular component, without clinical implications. There were no signs of femoral component loosening. The implant survival was 100% at the last follow-up. Conclusions: Short stems in primary THAs in patients under 20 years of age with advanced hip osteoarthritis showed clinical, functional, and radiological outcomes comparable to those previously reported in the literature for conventional stems, with the particularity of being less invasive and sparing femoral bone stock. Level of Evidence: IV

Secuenciación de próxima generación para la detección de patógenos en cirugía de cadera: experiencia y viabilidad diagnóstica en un centro de atención terciaria de la Argentina / Next generation sequencing for the detection of pathogens in hip surgery. Experience and diagnostic feasibility in a tertiary care center in Argentina

Introducción: El diagnóstico rápido y definitivo con identificación del patógeno es fundamental cuando hay una infección periprotésica. La secuenciación de próxima generación permite identificar el ADN en un germen determinado en poco tiempo. Hasta donde sabemos, no hay reportes sobre su empleo para el manejo de la infección periprotésica en Sudamérica. Nuestro objetivo fue demostrar la viabilidad diagnóstica de las muestras obtenidas de una serie de pacientes operados en Buenos Aires, Argentina, y analizadas con la técnica de secuenciación de próxima generación. materiales y métodos: Se analizó a una serie prospectiva de 20 pacientes sometidos a cirugía de revisión séptica y aséptica de cadera desde diciembre de 2019 hasta marzo de 2020. Se obtuvieron muestras intraoperatorias de líquido sinovial, tejido profundo y canal endomedular, que fueron enviadas para su análisis al laboratorio NexGen Microgen. Resultados: Se seleccionaron 17 pacientes, porque tenían una muestra apta para analizar. Los resultados se recibieron dentro de las 72 h de la cirugía. En un caso, el resultado de la secuenciación de próxima generación informó un germen distinto del identificado en los cultivos posoperatorios de partes blandas, esto permitió corregir la antibioticoterapia. En otro, esta técnica identificó Parabacteroides gordonii en una revisión aséptica, en otro, Morganella morganii, a partir de cultivos negativos en una revisión en un tiempo. Conclusión: Se demostró la viabilidad diagnóstica con la secuenciación de próxima generación, se pueden obtener resultados de microorganismos patógenos dentro de las 72 h posteriores a la cirugía en pacientes con infección periprotésica y cultivos negativos. Nivel de Evidencia: IV

Introduction: Early diagnosis of a periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) and identification of the pathogen are paramount. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) can identify the nucleic acids in a given germ in a short period. To our knowledge, there are no reports of its use in the management of PJI in South America. Our objective was to demonstrate the diagnostic feasibility of the NGS technique on the samples obtained from a series of patients operated on in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Materials and methods: A prospective series of 20 patients undergoing septic and aseptic hip revision surgery from December 2019 to March 2020 was analyzed. Intraoperative samples of synovial fluid, deep tissue, and intramedullary canal were obtained and sent to the NexGen Microgen laboratory (Texas, USA) for analysis. Results: Seventeen patients were finally eligible to present a sample suitable for analysis. In 100% of the samples, NGS results were obtained within 72 hours of surgery. In one case, the NGS result reported a germ different from the one identified in the postoperative soft tissue cultures, allowing antibiotic therapy to be corrected. In another case, NGS identified Parabacteroides gordonii in aseptic revision surgery. In another patient, the NGS identified Morganella morganii, in which conventional postoperative cultures were negative in single-stage revision surgery. Conclusion: In this study, we demonstrated the diagnostic feasibility of NGS, obtaining results within 72 hours immediately after surgery for pathogenic organisms in patients with PJI and negative cultures. Level of Evidence: IV

A Repeat Dose of Perioperative Dexamethasone Can Effectively Reduce Pain, Opioid Requirement, Time to Ambulation, and In-Hospital Stay After Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: The ideal dose of intravenous glucocorticoids to control pain in total hip arthroplasty (THA) remains unclear. This randomized controlled trial compared postoperative pain and tramadol requirement in patients undergoing unilateral primary THA who received one versus two perioperative doses of dexamethasone. METHODS: Patients consented to undergo blinded, simple randomization to either one (at anesthetic induction [1D-group]: 54 patients) or two (with an additional dose 8 hours after surgery [2D-group]: 61 patients) perioperative doses of 8-mg intravenous dexamethasone. Pain was evaluated with visual analog scale at 8, 16, and 24 hours postoperatively and with tramadol requirement. The secondary outcomes included postoperative nausea and vomiting, time to ambulation, and length of stay. RESULTS: Age (mean, 66 ± 13 years), body mass index (mean, 29 ± 5), gender (60% female), and history of diabetes were similar between groups (P >.05). Pain was higher at 16 (4 [interquartile range {IQR} 3-5] vs 2 [IQR 1-3]; P <.001) and 24 (2.5 [IQR 2-3] vs 1 [IQR 0-1] P <.001) hours postoperatively in the 1D-group patients. 1D-group patients had significantly more tramadol consumption (50 [IQR 50-100] vs 0 [IQR 0-50]; P = .01), as well as postoperative nausea and vomiting (18 [33.3%] vs 5 [8.2%]; P = .001). Fifty-five (90%) patients in the 2D-group and 32 (59%) in the 1D-group ambulated on postoperative day 0 (P = .0002). Fifty-eight (95%) patients in the 2D-group and 37 (68%) in the 1D-group were discharged on postoperative day 1 (P = .0002). CONCLUSION: An additional dose of dexamethasone at 8 hours postoperatively significantly reduced pain, tramadol consumption, time to ambulation, and length of stay after primary THA.

Selected Vancouver B2 periprosthetic femoral fractures around cemented polished femoral components can be safely treated with osteosynthesis.

AIMS: We aimed to compare the implant survival, complications, readmissions, and mortality of Vancouver B2 periprosthetic femoral fractures (PFFs) treated with internal fixation with that of B1 PFFs treated with internal fixation and B2 fractures treated with revision arthroplasty. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the data of 112 PFFs, of which 47 (42%) B1 and 27 (24%) B2 PFFs were treated with internal fixation, whereas 38 (34%) B2 fractures underwent revision arthroplasty. Decision to perform internal fixation for B2 PFFs was based on specific radiological (polished femoral components, intact bone-cement interface) and clinical criteria (low-demand patient). Median follow-up was 36.4 months (24 to 60). Implant survival and mortality over time were estimated with the Kaplan-Meier method. Adverse events (measured with a modified Dindo-Clavien classification) and 90-day readmissions were additionally compared between groups. RESULTS: In all, nine (8.01%) surgical failures were detected. All failures occurred within the first 24 months following surgery. The 24-month implant survival was 95.4% (95% confidence interval (CI) 89.13 to 100) for B1 fractures treated with internal fixation, 90% (95% CI 76.86 to 100) for B2 PFFs treated with osteosynthesis-only, and 85.8% (95% CI 74.24 to 97.36) for B2 fractures treated with revision THA, without significant differences between groups (p = 0.296). Readmissions and major adverse events including mortality were overall high, but similar between groups (p > 0.05). The two-year patient survival rate was 87.1% (95% CI 77.49 to 95.76), 66.7% (95% CI 48.86 to 84.53), and 84.2% (95% CI 72.63 to 95.76), for the B1 group, B2 osteosynthesis group, and B2 revision group, respectively (p = 0.102). CONCLUSION: Implant survival in Vancouver B2 PFFs treated with internal fixation was similar to that of B1 fractures treated with the same method and to B2 PFFs treated with revision arthroplasty. Low-demand, elderly patients with B2 fractures around well-cemented polished femoral components with an intact bone-cement interface can be safely treated with internal fixation. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7):1222-1230.

One-stage exchange should be avoided in periprosthetic joint infection cases with massive femoral bone loss or with history of any failed revision to treat periprosthetic joint infection.

AIMS: There is a paucity of long-term studies analyzing risk factors for failure after single-stage revision for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) following total hip arthroplasty (THA). We report the mid- to long-term septic and non-septic failure rate of single-stage revision for PJI after THA. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 88 cases which met the Musculoskeletal Infection Society (MSIS) criteria for PJI. Mean follow-up was seven years (1 to 14). Septic failure was diagnosed with a Delphi-based consensus definition. Any reoperation for mechanical causes in the absence of evidence of infection was considered as non-septic failure. A competing risk regression model was used to evaluate factors associated with septic and non-septic failures. A Kaplan-Meier estimate was used to analyze mortality. RESULTS: The cumulative incidence of septic failure was 8% (95% confidence interval (CI) 3.5 to 15) at one year, 13.8% (95% CI 7.6 to 22) at two years, and 19.7% (95% CI 12 to 28.6) at five and ten years of follow-up. A femoral bone defect worse than Paprosky IIIA (hazard ratio (HR) 13.58 (95% CI 4.86 to 37.93); p < 0.001) and obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2; HR 3.88 (95% CI 1.49 to 10.09); p = 0.005) were significantly associated with septic failure. Instability and periprosthetic fracture were the most common reasons for mechanical failure (5.7% and 4.5%, respectively). The cumulative incidence of aseptic failure was 2% (95% CI 0.4 to 7) at two years, 9% (95% CI 4 to 17) at five years, and 12% (95% CI 5 to 22) at ten years. A previous revision to treat PJI was significantly associated with non-septic failure (HR 9.93 (95% CI 1.77 to 55.46); p = 0.009). At the five-year timepoint, 93% of the patients were alive (95% CI 84% to 96%), which fell to 86% (95% CI 75% to 92%) at ten-year follow-up. CONCLUSION: Massive femoral bone loss was associated with greater chances of developing a further septic failure. All septic failures occurred within the first five years following the one-stage exchange. Surgeons should be aware of instability and periprosthetic fracture being potential causes of further aseptic revision surgery. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7):1247-1253.

Are lateral view radiographs necessary to properly classify femoral neck fractures? Intra and interobserver analysis using Garden's classification system / [¿Es necesaria la incidencia radiográfica de perfil para clasificar las fracturas mediales de cadera? Análisis intra e inter observador utilizando la clasificación de Garden]

INTRODUCTION: Femoral neck fractures have been historically diagnosed by anteroposterior (AP) and lateral (L) radiographic views. We analyzed the importance of the L view for management of femoral neck fractures, using the Garden's classification system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Slides were elaborated with AP and L radiographic views of 100 patients with femoral neck fractures admitted to our emergency department. Three hip surgeons assessed independently AP views only and then AP and L views together using Garden's classification system. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences (Kruskal Wallis 0, p=1) were found while comparing categories among Garden's classification system, after assessing L views. There was an 81 % (p < 0.001) agreement of Garden category between AP and AP combined with L views. When analyzing patients with changing categories between displaced and non displaced after assessing L view images, we found a 5% (n=5, CI 95% 1-11%) of change. For comparing AP Garden with L view Garden, we used a quadratic weighted kappa method. CONCLUSIONS: There is a high agreement in the Garden category when comparing AP with combined AP and L observations. Five patients would have received a different surgical treatment dependent on the hip surgeon who assessed the radiographs. This highlights the relevance of routinely L radiographs whenever a femoral neck fracture is suspected.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Históricamente, el diagnóstico de una fractura medial de cadera requiere de una radiografía anteroposterior (AP) y de perfil (P). Nos propusimos analizar la importancia de la radiografía de perfil en la evaluación y planificación del tratamiento de las fracturas mediales de cadera, utilizando la clasificación de Garden. RESULTADOS: Se utilizó el método de Kruskal Wallis para comparar los rangos en la clasificación de Garden después de ver la proyección de P y no se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas (Kruskal Wallis 0, p=1). El acuerdo ponderado entre AP y el AP combinado con el P del Garden promedio fue de 81 % (p < 0.001). Se analizó el porcentaje de pacientes recategorizados entre fracturas no desplazadas y desplazadas, tras observar el perfil: 5% (n=5, IC 95% 1-11%) . Para comparar el Garden AP con el Garden P, se utilizó el método kappa ponderado cuadrático. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Se prepararon diapositivas con radiografías AP y de P de 100 pacientes con fracturas mediales de cadera admitidos en nuestra central de emergencias.  Tres cirujanos de cadera evaluaron de forma independiente las incidencias AP únicamente y luego las vistas AP y P, utilizando la clasificación de Garden. RESULTADOS: Se utilizó el método de Kruskal Wallis para comparar los rangos en la clasificación de Garden después de ver la proyección de P y no se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas (Kruskal Wallis 0, p=1). El acuerdo ponderado entre AP y el AP combinado con el P del Garden promedio fue de 81 % (p < 0.001). Se analizó el porcentaje de pacientes recategorizados entre fracturas no desplazadas y desplazadas, tras observar el perfil: 5% (n=5, IC 95% 1-11%) . Para comparar el Garden AP con el Garden P, se utilizó el método kappa ponderado cuadrático. CONCLUSIONES: Existe una alta concordancia en la clasificación de Garden al comparar las observaciones de las radiografías AP, con las observaciones AP y P juntas. Cinco pacientes hubiesen recibido un tratamiento quirúrgico diferente dependiendo del especialista que interpretaba las radiografías. Esto permite destacar la importancia de solicitar la incidencia de perfil de rutina en pacientes con sospecha de fractura medial de cadera. palabras clave: cadera; fracturas de cadera; prótesis de cadera; lesiones de la cadera; radiografía.

Patients with no recurrence of infection five years after two-stage revision hip arthroplasty may be classified as periprosthetic infection 'in remission'.

AIMS: We aimed to report the mid- to long-term rates of septic and aseptic failure after two-stage revision surgery for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) following total hip arthroplasty (THA). METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 96 cases which met the Musculoskeletal Infection Society criteria for PJI. The mean follow-up was 90 months (SD 32). Septic failure was assessed using a Delphi-based consensus definition. Any further surgery undertaken for aseptic mechanical causes was considered as aseptic failure. The cumulative incidence with competing risk analysis was used to predict the risk of septic failure. A regression model was used to evaluate factors associated with septic failure. The cumulative incidence of aseptic failure was also analyzed. RESULTS: There were 23 septic failures at final follow-up, with a cumulative incidence of 14% (95% confidence interval (CI) 8% to 22%) at one year, 18% (95% CI 11% to 27%) at two years, 22% (95% CI 14% to 31%) at five years, and 23% (95% CI 15% to 33%) at ten years. Having at least one positive culture (hazard ratio (HR) 2.38 (interquartile range (IQR) 1.19 to 4.74); p = 0.013), or a positive intraoperative frozen section (HR 2.55 (IQR 1.06 to 6.15); p = 0.037) was significantly associated with septic failure after reimplantation. With dislocation being the most common cause of aseptic revision (5.2%), the cumulative incidence of aseptic failure was 1% (95% CI 0% to 5%) at one year, 6% (95% CI 1% to 8%) at five years, and 8% (95%CI 3% to 17%) at ten years. CONCLUSION: If there is no recurrent infection in the five years following reimplantation, the chances of further infection thereafter are remote. While the results of a frozen section may be a reliable guide to the timing of reimplantation, intraoperative culture has, currently, only prognostic value. Surgeons should be aware that instability remains a potential indication for further revision surgery. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(1):79-86.

4- to 8-year complication analysis of 2 'partial collum' femoral stems in primary THA.

OBJECTIVES: Compare the clinical and radiological outcome of CFP stem with the MiniHip design in a prospective series, with special interest in intraoperative periprosthetic fracture (IPPF). METHODS: We prospectively followed 101 cases treated with the MiniHip stem (Group 1) and 89 with the CFP stem (Group 2) operated between 2010 and 2014. No significant demographic differences were observed between both groups. Median follow-up was 72 months. Average stem length was 41% shorter in the MiniHip group (p < 0.001). Radiological parameters were measured and a logistcic regression model was created to evaluate factors associated with IPPF. RESULTS: Mean mHHS improved from 54 to 95 in the MiniHip group (p < 0.001) and from 64 to 98 in the CFP group (p < 0.001). No significant differences were observed in terms of loosening, infection or instability. We observed 7 IPPFs (3.68%), 3 in group 1 and 4 in group 2. After adjusting for confounders, CFP was not associated with a greater risk of IPPF (OR 3.23; 95% CI, 0.250-42.034, p = 0.368), however, a more complex fracture pattern was observed with this stem design. Prior acetabular fractures were associated with IPPF (OR 66.85; 95% CI, 1.142-3911, p = 0.043). Compared to Dorr A femurs, type Dorr B appeared protective against IPPF (OR 0.039; 95% CI, 0.001-1.109, p = 0.058). Valgus alignment tended to increase the risk of IPPF (OR 20.59; 95% CI 0.870-487.221, p = 0.061). CONCLUSIONS: MiniHip showed similar radiological outcomes to CFP at short- to mid-term follow-up without increasing IPPFs with a shorter stem length. Given that CFP produced a more complex IPPF pattern, surgeons should be cautious with alignment of this particular design, especially in Dorr A femur.