Does the duration to bipolar hip arthroplasty for femoral neck fracture influence on postoperative muscular strength?

BACKGROUND: The primary purpose of this study was to compare the postoperative muscular strength and functional performance between early versus late bipolar hip arthroplasty (BHA) intervention for femoral neck fracture classified by the duration from the onset to surgery. METHODS: Twenty-one patients who could walk at 12 months or more after BHA were enrolled into this study. We examined the muscular strength of hip flexion, extension, abduction, and knee extension of these patients. Time of one-leg standing, timed up and go test, pain grade by visual analog scale, and Barthel index were also evaluated as functional indices. We classified these patients into two groups by the duration from the onset to surgery, namely: within 3 days until BHA (early OP) and more than 4 days (late OP) to compare these indices at the latest follow-up. RESULTS: The mean days until operation were 2.3 days in the early-OP group and 5.9 days in the late-OP group, showing a significant difference between the two groups. Muscular strength and other functional indices were also found to have no significant differences between these two groups. CONCLUSION: Our study suggests that the delay to operate might not severely compromise the muscular strength around the hip joint for least 1.5 years among ambulatory patients.

Dynamic finite element analysis of implants for femoral neck fractures simulating walking.

BACKGROUND: To examine postoperative complications for osteosynthesizing femoral neck fractures (Pauwels III), biomechanical analysis should be conducted under dynamic conditions simulating for walking, not static conditions. Among the two main aims of this study, one is to pioneer the technique of dynamic finite element (FE) analysis, and the other is to compare stress distribution between two implants during walking. MATERIALS AND METHODS: First, we performed an inverse dynamic analysis with optimization method using a musculoskeletal model to calculate the inter-segmental and muscular forces during walking. Second, three FE models were prepared: (I) intact hip joint, (II) fractures treated with two Hansson pins (HP), and (III) fractures with Dual SC Screws (DSCS) maintaining an angular stability. The direction and magnitude of the loadings varied continuously. Stress distribution during the walking was evaluated by using a dynamic explicit method. We examined the time-dependent von Mises stresses at two representative spots: medial cortex at the femoral neck fracture site and lateral pin (presumed) insertion holes. RESULTS: In general, stress values are always changing during walking cycle. Regarding medial femoral neck cortex at the fracture line, intact model showed almost consistent value. Both HP model and DSCS model amounted the highest around 30 MPa. At lateral holes, highest values were 18.8, 104.0, and 63.1 MPa of intact, HP, and DSCS models, respectively. CONCLUSION: Thus, our analysis simulating the real walking will be useful in evaluating time-varying stress distribution to assess postoperative complication. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: DSCS is expected to be paramount for treatment of unstable femoral neck fractures.

Decreased postoperative gluteus medius muscle cross-sectional area measured by computed tomography scan in patients with intertrochanteric fractures nailing.

BACKGROUND: In patients with femoral intertrochanteric fractures treated by cephalomedullary (CM) nailing, abduction force reportedly decreased by 25-30% during the postoperative follow-up period. The purpose of the current study is to evaluate the cross-sectional area (CSA) and adipose tissue ratio (ATR) of the gluteus medius muscle on the postoperative computed tomography (CT) view, expecting this graphic study will support clinical results. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 27 patients with femoral intertrochanteric fractures treated by CM femoral nail implants completed the study. The mean age at osteosynthesis was 83 years (range: 72-94 years). The mean postoperative follow-up period was 23 months. The three CT axial slice views were defined as slices A, B, and C corresponding to proximal, midway, and distal part of gluteus medius, respectively. The CSA and ATR were assessed bilaterally. RESULTS: The mean and standard deviation of CSA values (mm2) between the nonoperated/ operated side were as follows: slice A: 2225.8 ± 621.2/1984.5 ± 425.8; slice B: 2145.1 ± 538.3/1854.9 ± 383.9; and slice C: 1711.0 ± 459.0/1434.5 ± 396.9 ( p < 0.01 in slices A, B, and C). The mean and standard deviation of ATR values (%) from the nonoperative/ operative side were as follows: slice A: 2.8 ± 1.7/5.2 ± 3.5; slice B: 2.7 ± 1.9/4.6 ± 3.2; and slice C: 3.6 ± 3.0/4.8 ± 3.2 ( p < 0.01 in slices A and B and p < 0.05 in slice C). CONCLUSION: Our image findings documented that gluteus medius is significantly changed in CSA and ATR. The damage possibly triggers decrease in muscular strength of hip abduction in the postoperative follow-up period. This measurement is objective, and needed no patient's endurance and cooperation.

Comparison of Post-Operative Muscular Strength Between Gamma Nailing and Hemiarthroplasty System in Femoral Intertrochanteric Fractures.

BACKGROUND: The current study focuses on the comparison of postoperative muscular strength around the hip joint of patients with femoral intertrochanteric fractures treated either by cephalo-medullary (CM) nailing or a new bipolar hip prosthesis (BHP), an especially attached device to secure displaced greater trochanteric fragment. METHODS: Twenty patients treated with CM nailing were age- and sex- matched with a control group of 20 patients treated with BHP. Maximum isometric forces at the bilateral hip joint were measured during the follow up period. Means of 3 measurements were represented. RESULTS: The mean and standard deviation values (kg) of muscle strength at the non-operative/ operative side in the CM nailing group were as follows: flexion strength 9.5±4.7/8.5±4.9 (P=0.06), extension strength 6.2±3.5/5.5±3.7 (P=0.08), abduction strength at 0 degrees 7.7±3.5/6.2±2.8 (p=0.002), abduction strength at 10 degrees 5.5±2.0/4.2±2.0 (p=0.001). In the BHP group, mean and standard deviation values of muscle strength at the non-operative/ operative side were as follows: flexion strength 6.5±2.8/6.0±3.4 (P=0.08), extension strength 4.4±0.9/4.4±0.6 (P=0.83), abduction strength at 0 degrees 5.1±1.9/5.0±1.6 (p=0.12), and that at 10 degrees 4.7±1.4/4.6±1.3 (p=0.10). CONCLUSION: Our results demonstrate that CM nailing may cause a 25-30% decrease in postoperative muscle strength around the hip joint, particularly during hip abduction. With the new BHP, greater trochanter reduction is achieved allowing early weight bearing and maintaining strength in abduction. Surgeons should consider postoperative muscular strength as one of the necessary factors for selection of the appropriate surgical procedure. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level III.

Diminished abductor muscular strength in patients with valgus-impacted femoral neck fractures treated by internal fixation: Clinical study and biomechanical considerations.

BACKGROUND: Valgus-impacted femoral neck fractures treated with internal fixation occasionally result in unsatisfactory postoperative locomotive function, partially due to muscle shortening and a decrease in the moment arm. This study quantifies the degree of diminished abduction strength both clinically and biomechanically. METHODS: Fifteen patients were enrolled in this study. Twelve patients with fracture healed in valgus-impacted position were further evaluated. Muscular strength around hip was examined, and values between the nonoperated and operated side were compared and analyzed. For the biomechanical study, two three-dimensional models were prepared: model I (control model without displacement) and model II (simulated malunion of a 15° valgus-impacted fracture). Two sets of hip flexion angles in each of the models were simulated with flexion angles of 0° and 23°. RESULTS: Mean and standard deviation values for muscle strength from the nonoperative/operative side among the valgus group are as follows: flexion strength was 9.2 ± 4.0/9.2 ± 3.2, extension strength was 5.8 ± 2.8/6.1 ± 3.2, abduction strength at 0° was 9.1 ± 3.7/7.4 ± 3.6, abduction strength at 10° was 6.7 ± 3.0/5.5 ± 2.2, and knee extension strength was 15.3 ± 6.2/15.1 ± 6.0 (kgf). When comparing values between the nonoperative and operative sides, statistical significance was only observed in abduction strength ( p < 0.01). The biomechanical models prove that valgus impaction decreases the moment arm by approximately 10% at both flexion angle. CONCLUSIONS: A significant decrease in abductor strength at 0° and 10° was observed in the valgus-healed group. This may be related to a decrease in the moment arm. Further research should be done to define the acceptable limit of deformity for the satisfactory postoperative functioning.

Biomechanical Study Using the Finite Element Method of Internal Fixation in Pauwels Type III Vertical Femoral Neck Fractures.

BACKGROUND: Several factors are known to influence osseous union of femoral neck fractures. Numerous clinical studies have reported different results, hence with different recommendations regarding treatment of Pauwels III fractures: femoral neck fractures with a more vertically oriented fracture line. The current study aimed to analyze biomechanically whether this fracture poses a higher risk of nonunion. OBJECTIVES: To analyze the influence of one designated factor, authors believe that a computerized fracture model, using a finite element Finite Element Method (FEM), may be essential to negate the influence of other factors. The current study aimed to investigate a single factor, i.e. orientation of the fracture line toward a horizontal line, represented by Pauwels classification. It was hypothesized that a model with a vertically oriented fracture line maintaining parity of all other related factors has a higher stress at the fracture site, which would delay fracture healing. This result can be applicable to other types of pinning. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The finite element models were constructed from computed tomography data of the femur. Three fracture models, treated with pinning, were constructed based on Pauwels classification: Type I, 30° between the fracture line and a horizontal line; Type II, 50°; and Type III, 70°. All other factors were matched between the models. The Von Mises stress and principal stress distribution were examined along with the fracture line in each model. RESULTS: The peak Von Mises stresses at the medial femoral neck of the fracture site were 35, 50 and 130 MPa in Pauwels type I, II, and III fractures, respectively. Additionally, the peak Von Mises stresses along with the fracture site at the lateral femoral neck were 140, 16, and 8 MPa in Pauwels type I, II, and III fractures, respectively. The principal stress on the medial femoral neck in Pauwels type III fracture was identified as a traction stress, whereas the principal stress on the lateral femoral neck in Pauwels type I fracture was a compression stress. CONCLUSIONS: The most relevant finding was that hook pinning in Pauwels type III fracture may result in delayed union or nonunion due to significantly increased stress of a traction force at the fracture site that works to displace the fracture. However, in a Pauwels type I fracture, increased compression stress contributes to stabilize it. Surgeons are recommended not to treat Pauwels type III femoral neck fractures by pinning.

A new treatment for avulsion fracture of the calcaneus using an Ilizarov external fixator.

INTRODUCTION: In the treatment of avulsion fractures of the posterior calcaneal tuberosity, open reduction and internal fixation are prone to several complications. We describe a new treatment using an Ilizarov external fixator, which can minimise the complications and achieve sufficient stability of the displaced fragment. CASE PRESENTATION: A 55-year-old woman sustained an avulsion fracture of the calcaneus. Examination revealed the development of bruising with extremely taut skin over the posterior prominence of the displaced bone. Radiographs demonstrated grossly proximal displacement of the tuberosity fragment. Surgery was exclusively percutaneous using an Ilizarov external fixator. The displaced fragment was adequately reduced and stabilised. Progressive weight bearing in the equinus position was initiated at the third week after surgery and the external fixator was removed at the seventh week. There was no skin necrosis or loss of reduction while the fixator was maintained. Postoperative follow-up for 2 years revealed full recovery. DISCUSSION: Major postoperative complications after conventional open reduction and internal fixation include skin necrosis, skin irritation by metal implants and re-displacement of the reduced fragment. Our method of using an external fixator may decrease the incidence of these three complications. Skin incision and the risk of skin necrosis are inevitable during internal fixation. On the other hand, the use of an external fixator reduces or eliminates skin necrosis, as it is applied percutaneously for reduction and stabilisation of the fragment. External fixation is mostly recommended in cases of poor vascularity or bruising. In addition, skin irritation can be avoided upon removal of the external fixator. Re-displacement occurs occasionally as a serious complication in lag screw fixation, particularly in cases with poor purchase of the osteoporotic bone. Tension band wiring and application of an Ilizarov external fixator in avulsion fractures of the calcaneus can neutralise tension on the Achilles tendon during the healing process. Thus, both these methods are believed to provide sufficient mechanical stability to fix the fragment. CONCLUSION: This new method, involving application of an Ilizarov external fixator, is recommended when the avulsion fragment is large enough to accommodate Ilizarov wires, especially in cases of circulatory problems or bruising.

A case of the geniculate artery pseudoaneurysm after total knee arthroplasty: search for preventive measures by evaluation of arterial anatomy of cadaver knees.

This article presents an 80-year-old man with pseudoaneurysm of the inferolateral geniculate artery after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The aim is to report this case and review possible preventive methods of pseudoaneurysm formation after TKA by investigating the relationship between knee arterial anatomy and the TKA procedure. Cadaveric evaluation demonstrates that the superomedial and inferomedial geniculate arteries are difficult to visualize. The anatomical position of the inferolateral artery makes it vulnerable to the surgical procedure during cutting of the tibia or while retracting soft tissue from the tibial edge, especially with minimal invasive surgery. In conclusion, careful subperiosteal release around the geniculate arteries is recommended. However, early recognition of pseudoaneurysm formation is even more essential than prevention.

Decreasing Complications of Quadricepsplasty for Knee Contracture after Femoral Fracture Treatment with an External Fixator: Report of Four Cases.

INTRODUCTION: In performing quadricepsplasty for contracture that develops after application of an external fixator for femoral fractures, surgeons must be aware of the potential risk for re-fracture and pin-related problems. The purpose of this report is to highlight these not well-detailed complications and to discuss specific findings and treatment suggestions. CASE SERIES: 4 men (mean age, 40 years) presenting with secondary to contracture that developed after application of an external fixator for femoral fractures were included in this study. The radiographs showed union across the fracture site however two of these patients couldn't stand on one leg raising suspicion about the union status. A computed tomographic image indeed demonstrated limited continuity of the cortex. Bone grafting was performed prior to quadricepsplasty. The mean extension and flexion before the quadricepsplasty were 0° and 57°, respectively. At the final follow-up examination, the mean active flexion of the knee had increased to 98°. RESULTS: The incidence of re-fracture during and after quadricepsplasty has been reported to be between 10 and 25%. There are 2 preoperative features that may mislead surgeons into believing that complete union of the fractures has been attained: one is the patient's ability to stand on a single leg, and the other is the fact that plain radiographs may lend themselves to different interpretations. In such cases, computed tomography will provide evidence of the continuity of the cortical bone. Bone grafting in 2 of our patients is thought to have prevented the postoperative complications of re-fracture. Complications at pin sites induce contracture at surrounding structures. When extreme tightness of the skin is noted, a tension-releasing procedure such as a skin graft should be performed. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, re-fracture or pin-site contracture should be carefully managed before quadricepsplasty, because the patients who need a lengthy application of an external fixator experience greater difficulty in bone healing and have more soft tissue damage.

Long-term results of intertrochanteric varus osteotomy for the dysplastic hip.

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a well established treatment for arthrosis of the hip, however many problems remain which have not yet been resolved, including component loosening and infection. Therefore, surgeons hesitate to perform THA in younger patients showing early signs of the disease. Intertrochanteric varus osteotomy was developed for osteoarthrosis with coxa valga. This procedure has been commonly used in patients with dysplastic hips. However, femoral head coverage is not sufficiently improved by this procedure. In order to overcome the disadvantages of this procedure, since 1972 we performed intertrochanteric varus osteotomy simultaneously combined with acetabuloplasty for the treatment of osteoarthrosis secondary to dysplasia. Between 1969 and 1994, we performed 104 intertrochanteric varus osteotomies for prearthrosis and early stage arthrosis of the hip due to acetabular dysplasia in 84 patients. In this study, we reviewed these patients clinically and radiographically, over 15 years. The intertrochanteric varus osteotomy alone was employed in 38 hips (varus group). Combined intertrochanteric varus osteotomy and acetabuloplasty was employed in 63 hips (combined group). The average Harris hip score at the latest follow-up in the combined group significantly higher than that in the 'varus' group. Postoperative centre-edge angle and age at operation were correlated with the Harris hip score at the most recent follow-up. The results of the present study indicate that this combined intertrochanteric varus osteotomy and acetabuloplasty for dysplastic hip should be considered in young patients when the disease is at an early stage.

Surgical treatment for permanent dislocation of the patella in adults.

Permanent dislocation of the patella in adults is a rare condition that presents with complete irreducible lateral dislocation of the patella, combined with secondary changes, such as valgus deformity and leg-length discrepancy. Because these secondary changes cannot heal spontaneously after skeletal maturation if left untreated, the patients frequently possess pathology not limited to the knee joint and extending to the whole lower extremity, such as malalignment or leg-length discrepancy, that can develop into osteoarthritis of the knee. However, to our knowledge, few surgeons advocate the significance of correcting the malalignment in treating adult patients. We treated a 34-year-old woman with permanent dislocation of the patella in a 2-stage surgery, consisting of first-stage correction of valgus deformity and limb shortening using a Ilizarov external fixator and second-stage realignment of the dislocated patella over the trochlea. A follow-up examination conducted 3 years after the second operation revealed plantigrade gait with normal alignment of the lower extremity without limping and medial thrust. The patella was tracking centrally in the patellofemoral groove. Radiographs showed a neutral mechanical axis of the lower extremity, no evidence of patellar subluxation, and no deteriorating osteoarthritic changes at the tibiofemoral joint. This case highlights the importance of correcting secondary changes, such as valgus deformity and leg-length discrepancy, to reduce the risk of future osteoarthrosis and postoperative dislocation, especially when these deformities are substantial.

Does the location of the entry point affect the reduction of proximal humeral fractures? A cadaveric study.

The selection of the correct entry point for stabilisation of long bone fractures and particularly of the humérus with intramedullary nailing is of paramount importance. The insertion of a nail from the correct entry point ensures anatomical alignment of the head and the shaft fragment. However, particularly for the humérus, the literature addressing this issue is obscure. Twenty cadaveric humeri without soft tissue attachment were studied. Two groups were studied: Group A (straight nail) and Group B (angled nail). A fracture of the surgical neck of the humérus was simulated. Then intramedullary nail was inserted through the correct entry hole. Displacement at the fracture site and force to reduce the displacement were measured. The average horizontal displacement was 2.5 ± 2.2 mm in Group A and 1.9 ± 1.1 mm in Group B. The humeral shaft tended to displace medially. The force required to reduce the produced displacement was usually less than 15 N. Anatomical reduction could not be obtained in 3/20 humeri even after applying a force of over 35 N. Our results of an average displacement of 2 mm following nail insertion, supports the significance of the entry point as a cause of loss of reduction at the fracture site post nail insertion. In most cases, anatomical reduction can be corrected with relative small forces, whereas in the rest the correction of the displacement is not feasible even with the application of substantial forces.

Antibiotic cement screw for postoperative infection after gamma nailing.

Few articles describe the management of postoperative infection occurring after the use of an intramedullary nail in the treatment of femoral intertrochanteric fractures. Implant removal is frequently selected for postoperative infection control, especially in chronic cases. However, removal of the intramedullary nail causes a high rate of femoral neck fractures, challenging surgeons to prevent such fractures with few guidelines for how this can be done. This article presents 2 cases of postoperative infection following intramedullary nail implant in elderly women. After removal of the infected implant and meticulous debridement, an antibiotic cement screw (a cannulated screw enveloped with antibiotic-impregnated bone cement) was inserted from the lag screw hole into the femoral head. At the latest follow-up (mean, 18 months postoperatively), neither femoral neck fracture nor infection had occurred in either patient. The antibiotic cement screw is expected to provide stability and prevent fracture at the femoral neck region, and its more intimate contact with the medullary canal allows a higher concentration of local antibiotics than intravenous application. The antibiotic cement screw is recommended especially for infection after gamma nailing. We also introduce a simple, reproducible method for constructing an antibiotic cement screw large enough to fit the lag screw hole using bone cement, cannulated screw, antibiotics, and a chest tube.

Prospective study of methotrexate treatment for rheumatoid arthritis treated legitimately according to the government recommended 8 mg/week dose.

Clinical squeal of the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis patients with methotrexate (MTX) according to the Japanese government recommended dose of 8 mg/week was evaluated prospectively. A total of 176 patients with active RA attending Konan Kakogawa Hospital and Kobe University Hospital were enrolled. Patients' profile at the start of study was Class 2.0 +/- 1.1 and X-ray stage 2.6 +/- 1.0. The effects of MTX treatment were evaluated by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) core set, disease activity score of 28 joints (DAS28), and European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) response criteria. A modified Sharp method was used to evaluate the radiographs. The improvement in the clinical signs and symptoms of the ACR core set was maintained for a 24-month period (p < 0.05). The ACR20/50/70 and DAS28 were also improved at the 12- and 24-month assessments. However, 82 of 130 patients (63.5%) were found to be nonresponders at 24 months of MTX therapy, as evaluated by EULAR response criteria. The X-ray study showed that joint destruction progressed despite the treatment. Thus, long-term MTX treatment performed in accordance with the Japanese 8 mg/week regimen appears to be favorable in terms of the signs and symptoms of RA; however, it is clearly insufficient for and cannot halt the progression of rheumatic joint destruction.

Total knee arthroplasty for rheumatoid knee with bilateral, severe flexion contracture: report of three cases.

The treatment of patients with severe flexion contracture of the rheumatoid knee, deprived of ambulation for long periods of time, is challenging. Based on three cases, we indicate the potential risks of posterior dislocation of the knee after total knee arthroplasty. In this pathological condition, surgeons must carefully select the type of implant in order to avoid this serious complication. We also emphasize the importance of working on disuse muscle atrophy of trunk (back, abdominal) and lower limbs, both of which play an integral role in ambulation. The personality of each rheumatoid patient should be carefully considered when considering surgical and rehabilitation options.

Histologic analysis of allograft mixed with hydroxyapatite-tricalcium phosphate used in revision femoral impaction bone grafting.

Failed total hip arthroplasty (THA) often is accompanied by loss of bone stock. In cases in which revision THA becomes necessary, adequate stabilization of the implant can be difficult because of the bone loss. Bone can be reconstructed by using tightly packed morselized cancellous bone graft in combination with a cemented stem. However, worldwide availability of human bone is limited, and risks such as infection and antigenicity are associated with the use of allogeneic bone. These risks have led to the development of synthetic bone graft extenders. The objective of impaction bone grafting is to achieve stability of an implant and subsequently allow the restoration of living bone stock. To reduce the amount of allograft consumed, a mixture of morselized allograft and hydroxyapatite-tricalcium phosphate was used for impaction grafting in a series of 15 patients. In 2 patients who required re-revision arthroplasty, the areas of impacted graft were analyzed histologically. The results showed a complex mixture of residual hydroxyapatite-tricalcium phosphate, necrotic bone (graft), viable bone, and fibrous tissue. Although several pre-clinical studies have described the expansion of allograft with synthetic materials, this article represents the first description of histologic findings in human femoral impaction grafting with a combination of allograft and hydroxyapatite-tricalcium phosphate.

Long-term results of open elbow synovectomy for rheumatoid arthritis.

Long-term results of open synovectomy of the elbow with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) were reviewed in 15 elbows. The subjects were evaluated at two time points with average follow-up periods of 4 and 8.7 years, and the results were compared between the two follow-ups. The Mayo Clinic performance score showed significant improvement in pain, motion, and daily function from the intermediate to the long-term follow-up. Overall results were satisfactory with little time-dependent deterioration in radiological grading, confirming the long-term effectiveness of this procedure.

The effectiveness of RA wrist fusion using Beta-TCP without autogenous iliac bone grafting: a report of four cases.

Wrist arthrodesis is indicated for the rheumatoid hand especially in cases with severe destruction of the carpal bones. In the arthrodesis procedure for the rheumatoid wrist, autogenous iliac bone grafting is required in most cases. However, autogenous iliac bone graft necessitates the additional surgical intervention, and can be associated with the problem of inadequate bony quality or quantity. It is thought that use of the artificial bone substitute in the procedure can lessen the surgical morbidity while supplying the consistent material without shortage of graft quantity. We have performed arthrodesis of the rheumatoid wrist using beta-TCP for four patients. Clinical results of these patients were satisfactory both in pain relief and functional improvement with complete bony healing. Therefore, this procedure seems to be an effective option for the rheumatoid wrist with severe destructive changes.

Total hip arthroplasty in severe congenital factor VII deficiency: successful use of recombinant activated factor VII for hemostasis.

Congenital factor VII (FVII) deficiency is a rare hemorrhagic disorder, and, in affected patients, surgery is likely to cause excessive bleeding. In this article, we report the first case of total hip arthroplasty in a patient with severe congenital FVII deficiency in which recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa, NovoSeven) was successfully used to manage bleeds. The patient was a 68-year-old woman with severe congenital FVII deficiency, who suffered from a hemorrhagic arthrosis of her left hip joint. We administered rFVIIa as intermittent bolus infusions both perioperatively and postoperatively; dosing was based on the results of a preoperative rFVIIa challenge test. During surgery and the 3-day postoperative treatment period, we observed normal hemostasis with no excessive bleeding or complications.