Efficacy of Intrawound Vancomycin in Prevention of Periprosthetic Joint Infection After Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective Double-Blinded Randomized Control Trial.

BACKGROUND: Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a devastating complication. Intrawound vancomycin powder has been shown to reduce infection rates in spine surgery, but its role in arthroplasty remains controversial. This prospective randomized control trial aimed to evaluate the efficacy of intrawound vancomycin in preventing PJI after primary TKA. METHODS: A total of 1,022 patients were randomized to the study group (n = 507, who received 2 grams intrawound vancomycin powder before arthrotomy closure) or to the control group (n = 515, no local vancomycin) with a minimum follow-up of 12-months. The primary outcome was the incidence of PJI or surgical site infection (SSI). Secondary outcomes included associated minor complications such as stitch abscess, persistent wound drainage, and delayed stitch removal. Other parameters evaluated include reoperation rates and incidences of nephrotoxicity. RESULTS: The overall infection rate in 1,022 patients was 0.66%. There was no significant difference in PJI rate in the study group (N = 1; 0.2%) versus the control group (N = 3; 0.58%), P = .264. Reoperation rates in the study group (N = 4; 0.78%) and control (N = 5; 0.97%), and SSI rates in the study (N = 1; 0.2%) and control groups (N = 2; 0.38%) were comparable. The Vancomycin cohort, however, demonstrated a significantly higher number of minor wound complications (n = 67; 13.2%) compared to the control group (n = 39; 7.56%, P < .05). Subgroup analysis showed diabetics in the study group to also have a higher incidence of minor wound complications (24 [14.1%] versus 10 [6.2%]; P < 05]. Multivariate analyses found that vancomycin use (odds ratio = 1.64) and smoking (odds ratio = 1.85) were associated with an increased risk of developing minor wound complications. No cases of nephrotoxicity were reported. CONCLUSIONS: Intrawound vancomycin powder does not appear to reduce PJI/SSI rate in primary total knee arthroplasties, including high-risk groups. Although safe from a renal perspective, intrawound vancomycin was associated with an increase in postoperative aseptic wound complications. Intrawound vancomycin may not be effective in reducing the rate of PJI in primary TKA.

Operating room efficiency for a high-volume surgeon in simultaneous bilateral robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty: a prospective cohort study.

Robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty (RATKA) has been shown to achieve more accurate component positioning and target alignment than conventional jig-based instrumentation; however, concerns remain regarding its adoption since it is associated with steep learning curves, higher operational costs, and increased surgical time. This study aims to compare the operating times of three cohorts of patients undergoing simultaneous bilateral TKA, i.e., first 50 RATKA, last 50 RATKA (at the end of 1 year), and 50 conventional TKA. This prospective cohort study was conducted at a single high-volume tertiary care center by a single experienced surgeon on 150 patients (300 knees), who were allotted into three equal cohorts of 50, between February 2020 and December 2021. Simultaneous bilateral TKAs were done in all three groups and operative times recorded. We describe the technique for optimizing the surgical time of SB-RATKA for efficient operative room logistics. The operating times of the two robotic-assisted TKA cohorts were compared with the operating times of the conventional SB-TKA cohort. The mean age of the study population was 59(±6.2) years with the majority of females (82%). The mean coronal deformity was comparable between the cohorts. The mean operating time in the conventional CTKA, initial 50 RATKA, and final 50 RATKA cohorts were 115.56 (±10.7), 127.8 (±26), and 91.66 (±13.5) min, respectively, all of which showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001). The mean operating times of the final 50 RATKA at the end of 1 year improved by about 36 min with all the SB-RATKA cases being completed in under 120 min. The efficiency of SB-RATKA improved significantly with time and experience, resulting in shorter operational times within a year, revealing the potential of robotic-assisted surgery to surpass conventional approaches in TKA in terms of operating room efficiency.

Improved intra-operative decision making in RA-TKR with the help of pre-operative CT scan.

Background: Robotic-assisted total knee replacement (RA-TKR) is a significant advancement in orthopedic surgery, but intra-operative decision-making remains challenging. Pre-operative imaging techniques, particularly CT scans, have gained momentum, providing insights into the patient's anatomy, improving implant positioning and alignment. However, further research is needed to explore their influence on RA-TKR planning and execution. Materials and methods: The hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted in Orthopedics department of Sparsh Speciality Hospital, Bangalore & Sunshine Hospital, Hyderabad. A total of 1020 participants in the age group over 50 years during the study period were included based on convenient sampling. The axial CT images were taken preoperatively and RA-TKA was done for all the patients. Results: The study participant's average age was 64.01 ± 7.13. Out of 1020 patients 259 (24.4%) were males and 761 (74.6%) were females. The median femoral, tibia and Polyethylene predicted and the actual component were same with the side of surgery and BMI. The median femoral predicted actual component was significantly higher among the age category of more than 80 years when compared to other age groups. The median femoral, tibia and Polyethylene predicted was higher in males when compared to females. Conclusion: Pre-operative CT scans enhance RA-TKR procedures by providing precise anatomical insights, enhancing implant placement, and identifying potential issues, improving surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Impact of Hepatitis B on Complications and Functional Outcomes in Patients Undergoing TKR.

Background: In India, infected patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV) undergoing total knee replacement (TKA) are increasing. It is recognized that patients with HBV infection are more susceptible to complications after surgery. To evaluate the effect of HBV infection on complications and functional outcome after TKA was the aim of this study. Methods: This is the retrospective observation analysis of patients who underwent primary total knee replacement in our hospital from 2017 to 2019. A total of 92 patients were included in the study, of which 46 patients were asymptomatic HBV-positive, and these 46 patients were compared with a matched cohort of another 46 patients who were non-HBV. Results: A total of 92 patients were analyzed (asymptomatic HBV n = 46, non-HBV n = 46). The incidence rate of total complications in patients undergoing TKA with asymptomatic HBV was 19.57% compared to 4.3% in non-HBV (p < 0.001). Applied with regression models, patients with HBV had an 8.6% increased risk of surgical complication which included one peri-prosthetic joint infection, three wound dehiscence compared with the non-HBV group which had 2.17% surgical complications (one wound dehiscence). Medical complications were higher in asymptomatic HBV group with 10.87% (which includes one pulmonary embolism, two DVT, and two strokes). In comparison with the non-HBV group which had 2.17% medical complications (one DVT), asymptomatic HBV group had 5.35-fold (95% CI 1.09-26.33; p < 0.01) increase in overall complications. Post-TKA surgical complications are 4.29-fold (95% CI 0.46-39.91; p < 0.01) higher compared to non-HBV group. Conclusion: Our study showed asymptomatic hepatitis B patients are at an increased risk of complications (peri-prosthetic joint infections and wound dehiscence) compared to normal patients. In hepatitis B and non-hepatitis B patients, functional outcomes in terms of OKS are comparable.

Patellar Dislocation Masking a Tibial Post Fracture: An Unusual Complication of Posterior Stabilized Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Posterior stabilized total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has established itself as a highly effective design for total knee arthroplasty, renowned for its longevity and success. However, a subset of cases, approximately 6-12%, faces early failure, necessitating revision procedures. This case report presents a unique and previously undocumented complication involving a tibial post fracture following hyperflexion of the knee, masked by chronic patellar dislocation. This case highlights the importance of considering polyethylene wear-related failure in cases of instability without an apparent history of trauma. The surgical intervention involved polyethylene insert exchange, patellar debulking, lateral retinacular release, and quadriceps tendon double-breasting.

Functional alignment is associated with increased incidence of pre-balance, reduced soft-tissue release, and post-operative pain compared to mechanical alignment in patients undergoing simultaneous bilateral robotic-assisted TKA.

This study aimed to compare two alignment strategies in the same patient undergoing simultaneous bilateral robotic-assisted TKA (SB-RATKA): mechanical alignment (MA), the gold-standard, and functional alignment (FA), a balance-driven, personalized alignment strategy. The outcome measures included quantitative assessment of soft-tissue release, incidence of knee balance, and post-operative pain. This was a prospective, self-controlled, randomized-controlled trial involving 72 patients who underwent SB-RATKA using the MAKO® robotic system with comparable grades of deformity and pain in both knees. 65 patients were finally included with one alignment strategy done per knee, with the patients blinded to the strategy used. The study recorded the additional soft-tissue releases required, incidence of pre-balance, and daily post-operative VAS pain scores. The mean age of the study population was 57.95 years, with a female preponderance (N = 53, 81.6%). MA group had significantly more medial compartment tightness in both flexion (MA-15.6 ± 1.8; FA-17 ± 1.3) and extension (MA-14.9 ± 1.9; FA-17 ± 1.1) (p < 0.0001) compared to the FA group after dynamic balancing. 66% of knees in the FA group (N = 43) achieved pre-balance compared to 32.3% in the MA group (N = 21) (p < 0.0001). VAS scores showed a significant reduction in pain in the FA group up to 72 h post-surgery (p < 0.0001). The requirement for posteromedial release (PM), posterior capsular (PC) release, tibial reduction osteotomy (TRO), and superficial MCL pie crusting (sMCL) were significantly lower in FA (PM-22, PC-13, TRO-8, sMCL-2) compared to MA (PM-44, PC-29, TRO-18, sMCL-8). Functional alignment strategy consistently resulted in a higher incidence of knee balance with a significant reduction in soft-tissue releases and immediate post-operative pain when compared to MA in the same patient undergoing SB-RATKA. Therapeutic Level 1.

Unveiling Scapular Pseudo-winging: A Case Report on Ventral Osteochondroma of the Scapula in a 21-year-old.

Introduction: Scapular pseudo-winging caused by ventral osteochondromas is a rare condition that has been reported in only a handful of cases. This case report describes a 21-year-old male patient with scapular pseudo-winging due to ventral osteochondromas of the scapula. This report adds to the limited literature on this topic and highlights the importance of considering ventral osteochondromas as a possible cause of scapular pseudo-winging. Case Report: A 21-year-old male presented with a swelling on his left upper back that had gradually increased in size over the past 10 years. Physical examination revealed a bony hard swelling arising from the medial border of the scapula, with associated scapular pseudo-winging. Diagnostic imaging confirmed the presence of two ventral osteochondromas located on the body of the scapula. Surgical excision was performed to address the patient's cosmetic concerns. Conclusion: This case report highlights the importance of considering ventral osteochondromas as a possible cause of scapular pseudo-winging. It contributes to the existing literature by documenting a rare presentation and providing insights into the clinical course, diagnostic imaging, and surgical management of this condition. By raising awareness among tumor surgeons and orthopedic surgeons, this report may aid in early recognition and appropriate management of scapular pseudo-winging cases caused by ventral osteochondromas. Furthermore, this report expands our understanding of the etiology and treatment options for scapular pseudo-winging, potentially benefiting patients across various clinical specialties. Categories: Oncology, orthopedics.

Calcaneal Osteosarcoma: A Rare Instance in Adolescent Patient.

Introduction: Calcaneal osteosarcoma is extremely uncommon, accounting for <1% of all osteosarcomas. They typically exhibit swelling and chronic heel pain and are frequently clinically misdiagnosed as traumatic or inflammatory process. Case Report: We report a case of a 19-year-old girl with calcaneal osteosarcoma who initially complained of heel pain that was refractory to analgesic medications over a period of 4 months. Conclusion: The case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and management of osteosarcoma in patients with chronic heel pain and also highlights the importance of considering osteosarcoma as a differential diagnosis in adolescents who present with chronic heel pain, despite the rarity of the condition.

Mid-resection Workflow for Robotic-assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty in a Stiff Knee.

Introduction: With the growing prevalence of robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty (RATKA), the significance of effectively addressing complex deformities using this approach is gaining widespread recognition. This article underscores the importance of a novel mid-resection workflow specifically tailored for RATKA in cases with complex deformities. Case Report: A 58-year-old female patient diagnosed with severe osteoarthritis in both knees and a stiff left knee underwent RATKA utilizing a mid-resection workflow. The surgery resulted in favorable intraoperative stability and achieved a satisfactory range of motion. Follow-up at the 1-year post-operative mark demonstrated a range of movement of 110° and a positive functional outcome for the patient. Conclusion: Severe knee arthritis with flexion deformity represents a common condition encountered in surgical practice. The advent of RATKA has provided us with an opportunity to assess and establish the effectiveness of mid-resection workflow in managing such cases.

Percutaneous Management of Aneurysmal bone Cyst of Axis Vertebrae in a 12-year-old Child: A Case Report.

Introduction: Aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) of cervical spine is rare in the pediatric age groups. It brings along a gamut of problems in management such as growth disturbances, instability, deformities, and neurological deficiencies. We report a case that was successfully managed by intralesional injection, making it safe and reproducible. Case Report: A 12-year-old girl presented with pain and swelling around the nape of neck that increased in size over 1 year. Imaging and biopsy were suggestive of ABC. She was managed with selective embolization and percutaneous injection of methylprednisolone and calcitonin. Injections were given twice over 2 months period. At 1½ year follow-up, the patient was asymptomatic and swelling had shrunk in size and lesions ossified. Conclusion: ABC'S are rare lesions that can create therapeutic dilemma in the pediatric population. Intralesional injection of calcitonin and methylprednisolone can prove to be a safer and efficacious treatment modality.

Percutaneous Capsule Release in Adhesive Capsulitis with Nanoscope under Local Anesthesia - Case Report.

Introduction: Adhesive capsulitis or frozen shoulder is a painful condition. With advent of newer and newer technology, minimally invasive surgeries are being tried in all kinds of surgeries. Nanoscope is one such invention that lead to the idea of percutaneous arthroscopy. The aim of this case report is to emphasize the role of nanoscope under local anesthesia in treatment of adhesive capsulitis. Case Report: A 45-year-old male presented with a history of restricted movements in the right shoulder for 1 year. On clinical examination, rotator cuff strength was under normal limits, his forward elevation was 100°, lateral elavation was 90°, external rotation - 45°, abduction external rotation 30°, and abduction internal rotation 40°. X-ray shoulder was normal. MRI shoulder was showing features of adhesive capsulitis. Conclusion: Percutaneous arthroscopic capsular release with nanoscope under local anesthesia is a safe and cost-effective procedure. With minimal infrastructure, it can be developed into an outpatient procedure. The advantages of this percutaneous technique over conventional arthroscopic release needs further studies.

Patella non-resurfacing in primary total knee arthroplasty provides good functional results-a retrospective review of nine thousand three hundred forty six knees.

PURPOSE: Patellar resurfacing has long been a contentious subject in TKA with no consensus and the literature yielding disparate results. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term functional outcomes and complications of patients undergoing primary TKA without patellar resurfacing (non-resurfacing). METHODS: This study retrospectively analysed 9346 patients who underwent primary manual jig-based TKA without patellar resurfacing at a single high-volume arthroplasty centre between 2010 and 2018. Patients with a minimum three year follow-up irrespective of disease etiology and implant manufacturer were included in the study. Primary outcome was measured using Oxford knee score and patellofemoral Feller score. Secondary outcomes included determining the incidence of patellofemoral complications and re-operation rates following TKA. RESULTS: A total of 8695 knees were eligible for final evaluation having a mean follow-up of 6.6 years. Mean age of the patients was 62.6 (SD-7.5) years with female predominance of (N-6619, 70.8%). The majority of the patients had primary OA (N-8792, 94.1%) with varus deformity (N-8642, 92.46%). Depuy was the most used manufacturer (n = 2592, 26.4%) with the posterior stabilised (N-4127, 44.2%) design being the most predominant. The mean Feller score of the study population was 24.5 (SD = 3) with a majority of patients having good to excellent outcomes (86.95%, N-8424) and mean Oxford knee score was 36.9 (SD-6.9) with a majority of the patients having an OKS greater than 30 (87.1%, N-8133) with anterior knee pain (AKP) reported in only 4.8% patients (N-418). Most common complications included patellar clunk (N-56, 0.7%), traumatic patellar fractures (N-62, 0.8%), quadriceps tendon tear (N-54, 0.7%) and patellar dislocation (N-4, 0.05%) CONCLUSION: Patellar non-resurfacing has no detrimental impact on functional outcomes and incidence of AKP. We conclude that it is a safe, cost-effective and satisfactory approach in primary TKA with no significant complications.

Intraoperative Periprosthetic Fractures during primary Total knee arthroplasty: Experience from an Asian high-volume arthroplasty centre.

BACKGROUND: Intraoperative periprosthetic fracture (IF) is an under-reported complication in primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This study aimed to audit the outcomes and complication rates in patients encountering IF during primary TKA and propose a new classification for its management. METHODS: A nested case-control study was performed at a tertiary referral hospital where 50 patients encountering IF during primary TKA operated by a single surgeon team between January 2016 to May 2021, were compared with 150 (3:1) age-, gender- and implant-matched patients not encountering IF. Demographic data, risk factors, outcomes and complications of both groups were compared at a minimum follow up of 1 year. RESULTS: The incidence of IF was 0.45%, with 44 fractures in the femur (88%), six (12%) in the tibia and none in the patella. Medial collateral ligament avulsion fracture (54.54%) in the femur and medial plateau fracture (66.66%) in the tibia were the most common fracture types. At final follow up, the fracture group had higher rates of 90-day re-admissions (8% vs. 2.66%, P = 0.095), deep infection (4% vs. 0.66%, P = 0.15) and revisions (6% vs. 1.33%, P = 0.06). The mean Knee Society Score was not significantly different between the two groups (152.22 ± 9.25 vs. 161.68 ± 11.22, P = 0.642) with union being achieved in all but one patient at a mean duration of 9.6 weeks. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with severe and fixed deformities have a higher risk for IF. The occurrence of fracture and the complexity of surgery equally contribute to the higher complication rates. Appropriately managed fractures have comparable functional outcomes.

Radiological Evaluation of the Phenotype of Indian Osteoarthritic Knees based on the Coronal Plane Alignment of the Knee Classification (CPAK).

Background: Understanding constitutional alignment of the lower limb is essential to optimize alignment strategies during total knee arthroplasty. The coronal plane alignment of knee (CPAK) classification system was proposed as a comprehensive assessment tool based on coronal alignment and variations in joint line obliquity (JLO). This prospective observational cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the phenotype of knees in the Indian population based on the CPAK system. Methods: Two cohorts of individuals (250 young healthy volunteers and 250 elderly patients with knee osteoarthritis) underwent radiological assessment with long-leg radiographs and were classified based on the CPAK system. Measurements included the mechanical and arithmetic hip-knee-ankle angles (mHKA, aHKA), joint line obliquity (JLO), lateral distal femoral angle (mLDFA) and medial proximal tibial angle (mMPTA). Knees were grouped into 9 CPAK phenotypes based on aHKA and JLO. Results: A total of 1000 knees were evaluated. In cohort-1 of healthy young adults, most knees were distributed in the CPAK class II phenotype (128 knees, 25.6%) followed by CPAK Type I (106 knees, 21.2%). In cohort-2 of elderly arthritic adults, most knees were distributed in Type I (294 knees, 58.8%) with constitutional varus and apex-distal joint line orientation. Conclusion: The majority of the study population was found to have constitutional varus alignment. In addition, a high proportion of patients in both categories, especially arthritic patients undergoing TKA, were found to have varus alignment with an apex-distal oblique joint line. This classification may help optimize component positioning to restore constitutional alignment and joint line orientation during TKA.

High Prevalence of Isolated Antero-medial Osteoarthritis (AMOA) in Indian Patients Undergoing Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Background: Isolated antero-medial osteoarthritis (AMOA) of the knee is a distinct pattern of arthritis. Medial arthritis of the knee in select patients can be managed with uni-compartmental arthroplasty (UKA), with studies showing shorter hospital stay, faster rehabilitation and reduced medical complications in the post-operative period compared to TKA. However, the prevalence of AMOA in Indian patients with osteoarthritis of the knee is unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of AMOA in patients undergoing primary TKA for OA. Methods: This was a prospective evaluation of 2518 knees in 1936 patients who were selected for primary TKA. Pre-operative radiographs were screened based on the Oxford UKA Radiological decision aid and diagnosis of AMOA was established. All 2518 knees underwent primary total knee arthroplasty and cases of AMOA were confirmed intra-operatively based on ACL integrity, lateral compartment wear and medial compartment wear pattern. Cases with AMOA arthritic wear pattern were considered amenable for UKA if radiographs showed intact lateral joint space, intra-operatively those with intact and functional ACL, acceptable patellofemoral wear (Outerbridge I-II). Results: We report a prevalence of 46.94% of AMOA, who were amenable for UKA. Obese patients were more likely to have a damaged or non-functional ACL and more likely to have a high degree of wear, not amenable for UKA (p < 0.05). Non-functional ACL was associated with higher prevalence of posterior extension of arthritic wear. Conclusion: This study demonstrated a high prevalence (46.94%) of antero-medial osteoarthritis (AMOA), amenable for UKA. Patient selection is important for improving outcomes after TKA or UKA. Future studies are warranted to compare outcomes of both UKA and TKA in patients with isolated AMOA of the knee.

Comparison of patient reported outcomes after robotic versus manual total knee arthroplasty in the same patient undergoing staged bilateral knee arthroplasty.

Background: Robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty (RATKA) has been proven to improve accuracy of component positioning and reducing alignment target outliers. However, the clinical benefit of robotics is often debated. Recent studies have shown reduced pain and faster recovery in the immediate post-operative period and may be associated with improved PROMs and satisfaction. The aim of this study was to assess PROMs and satisfaction in a unique patient population undergoing bilateral staged TKA to compare manual (MTKA) and RATKA in the same patient. Methods: 55 patients underwent bilateral staged TKA, performed by a single surgeon at a single institute. Patients who underwent TKA for the first knee with manual technique and RATKA for the second side, were eligible for inclusion in the study. Primary outcome assessed was the Oxford Knee Score and secondary outcomes included the Forgotten Joint Score (FJS), patient satisfaction, mean duration for independent ambulation after TKA, and patient perspectives on recovery evaluated with a questionnaire. Results: Both RATKA and MTKA were associated with comparable PROMs. Though RATKA was associated with improved joint perception (Mean FJS after MTKA surgery was 70.3 (SD = 10.66) and significantly lower than the mean FJS after RATKA (73, SD = 10.95, p-value < 0.01), but the difference was not clinically relevant. A higher proportion of patients were more likely to be very satisfied or satisfied after RATKA. A significant proportion of patients felt the knee operated with RATKA was less painful and felt more natural compared to MTKA at final follow-up (p < 0.01). Majority of patients would undergo RATKA again and recommend robotic-TKA to others. Conclusion: Robotic-assisted surgery was associated with improved patient satisfaction, faster independent ambulation compared to manual techniques. PROMs however, were comparable without clinically significant differences. Patients preferred robotic-assisted surgery, with a significantly higher proportion perceiving knee operated by RATKA felt more natural.

Influence of vitamin D levels on outcomes and nosocomial COVID-19 infection in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty- a cohort study.

Purpose: This study aimed to audit the effects of vitamin D3 on the early functional outcomes, the incidence of nosocomial COVID-19 infection and complications in patients undergoing elective Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA). Methods: This was a retrospective study involving patients undergoing primary unilateral TKA between January 2020 to May 2021 operated by a single surgeon using a single implant. Participants were divided into two cohorts, Deficient-vitamin D3 level <20 ng/ml and Sufficient-vitamin D3 level ≥20 ng/ml. Assessment for Knee Society Score and Oxford Knee Score (OKS) was done preoperatively and one year after TKA. Nosocomial COVID-19 infection rate, 30-day re-admissions and complications were noted during the study. Results: 235 patients were divided into 2 cohorts matched by age, gender and ASA grades. 74 patients belonged to the deficient group and 161 belonged to the sufficient group. The mean preoperative scores in the sufficient group were higher than the deficient group (OKS = 15.74 vs 12.95; KSS = 88.91vs 85.62). Similarly, the one-year postoperative scores in the sufficient group were significantly higher (OKS = 36.54 vs 35.16; KSS = 164.01 vs 161.22). A linear correlation was present between preoperative score (r = 0.273) & post-operative scores (r = 0.141) with serum vitamin D3 levels. Vitamin D3 deficient individuals had higher nosocomial COVID-19 infection rate (10.81% vs 4.96%,p = 0.16). The incidence of complications like DVT, embolism, stroke, infection and fracture were not statistically different in the two groups. Conclusion: Vitamin D positively influences the outcomes of TKA and protects against nosocomial COVID-19 infection in patients undergoing elective TKA.

Enhanced Mid-Resection Workflow Technique for Severe Varus Deformity Correction Using Robotic-Arm Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty.

INTRODUCTION: Robotic technology in total knee arthroplasty has been proven to improve accuracy of component positioning, achieve alignment targets, and balance the knee objectively. However, the utility of robotics in correction of severe varus deformities of the knee has not been investigated in detail. The aim of this paper was to establish the utility and describe the technique of robotic-arm assisted total knee arthroplasty (RA-TKA) in achieving pre-balance in severe varus deformities of the knee. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Among the existing Mako (Stryker, Kalamazoo, Michigan) RA-TKA workflows, pre-resection workflow is limited to knees which can be pre-balanced by component positioning according to functional alignment. Mid-resection workflow (distal femur/tibia first) is reserved for complex cases, whereby the extension gap is balanced first. In our experience, both workflows could not achieve pre-balance in severe varus deformities, necessitating the need to develop a novel technique. The ability of the robot to execute precise bone cuts allows for a provisional postero-medial femoral bone cut in flexion, giving access to remove large inaccessible posterior osteophytes and the tight posterior capsule, thus balancing the knee in extension. The flexion gap is subsequently matched to the extension gap by alterations in axial component positioning. CONCLUSION: This novel "enhanced mid-resection workflow" technique establishes the utility of the RA-TKA in balancing severe varus deformities of the knee. We also propose an algorithm which simplifies and helps surgeons choose between the three workflows to pre-balance knees irrespective of the severity of the varus deformity.

Two-Staged Total Knee Arthroplasty in Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis with Severe Flexion Deformity: A Case Report.

CASE: Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) is associated with severe flexion contracture of the knees disabling a patient's ability to walk. Although various treatment modalities are available in the literature, we report a 2-stage procedure in a case of a 22-year-old female JRA patient with bilateral severe flexion deformity of the knee: stage 1-correction of the flexion contracture deformity by ring fixators and stage 2-total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for arthritis. To the best of our knowledge, no such approach has been reported previously. CONCLUSIONS: An Ilizarov ring fixator is a safe technique for gradual correction of a severe flexion deformity. Subsequent TKA can be performed as a standard procedure.