Outcomes following the single-incision anterior approach to total hip arthroplasty: a multicenter observational study.

The authors conducted a retrospective, multicenter cohort study of 1,152 patients across nine clinical sites across the United States, evaluating complications and function associated with the anterior approach to total hip arthroplasty using an orthopedic table. Eligible patients included those with primary diagnosis of hip arthritis. Outcomes included hospital stay, use of assistive devices, complications, and function. In the cohort of 1,152 patients treated with the anterior approach to total hip arthroplasty, the authors found (i) an acceptable complication profile with a very low dislocation rate, (ii) an early return to function, and (iii) a decline in complications in surgeons with greater than 100 case experiences.

Multicenter collaboration in observational research: improving generalizability and efficiency.

Utilizing a multicenter approach in observational clinical research allows for improved generalizability of the results, a larger sample size, and, consequently, improved efficiency. This paper highlights important issues with regard to the organization of multicenter observational studies in orthopaedic research. Specifically, we emphasize the development of trial committees, stress the importance of having a methods center for the purpose of coordinating day-to-day study activities, and describe the roles of the participating clinical sites. The successful conduct of multicenter studies requires careful study organization, a dedicated and experienced methods center, and motivated participating surgeons and study staff at the clinical sites. To illustrate the organization of a multicenter initiative, we use the example of a total hip arthroplasty collaborative.