A soft-tissue defect over an infected total knee replacement (TKR) presents a difficult technical problem that can be treated with a gastrocnemius flap, which is rotated over the defect during the first-stage of a revision procedure. This facilitates wound healing and the safe introduction of a prosthesis at the second stage. We describe the outcome at a mean follow-up of 4.5 years (1 to 10) in 24 patients with an infected TKR who underwent this procedure. A total of 22 (92%) eventually obtained a satisfactory result. The mean Knee Society score improved from 53 pre-operatively to 103 at the latest follow-up (p < 0.001). The mean Western Ontario and McMaster Universities osteoarthritis index and Short-Form 12 score also improved significantly (p < 0.001).

This form of treatment can be used reliably and safely to treat many of these complex cases where control of infection, retention of the components and acceptable functional recovery are the primary goals.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1217–21.

Purpose

The mobile-bearing total knee arthroplasty was designed to increase the contact area with the polyethylene bearing, through the functional range of motion, and subsequently decrease the wear rate previously seen in fixed-bearing implants. In the literature there is no clear clinical advantage between the different designs in the short to mid-term follow-up.

The purpose of this study was to compare the results between a cruciate retaining mobile-bearing design (SAL II, Sulzer) and two cruciate retaining fixed-bearing designs (AMK, Depuy, and the Genesis II, Smith and Nephew).

Purpose

Unicompartmental versus total knee arthroplasty has been a debated topic for decades. The purpose of this study was to compare the survivorship and clinical outcomes of a large primary total knee arthroplasty versus unicompartmental knee arthroplasty cohort.

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to determine the rate of conversion from RSA to THR in a number of Canadian centers performing resurfacings

Purpose

The most common procedure for advanced osteoarthritis of the knee is a total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) has become a popular treatment for isolated medial compartment osteoarthritis. The purpose of this study was to look at the functional outcomes following these two procedures.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes and complications of normal weight, class one obese (BMI=30-34.9 kg/m2) and superobese (BMI≥50 kg/m2) primary total knee replacement (TKR) patients.

Purpose

The patella provides a mechanical advantage to the knee extensor mechanism. Patellectomy, performed for trauma or patellofemoral arthrosis, does not preclude the development of tibiofemoral arthrosis. Total knee arthroplasty is the mainstay of treatment for tibiofemoral arthrosis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of total knee arthoplasty in patients who previously underwent patellectomy.

Purpose: The range of motion after TKA depends on many patient, surgical technique, and implant factors. Recently, high-flexion designs have been introduced as a means of ensuring or gaining flexion after TKA. We therefore evaluated factors affecting postoperative flexion to determine whether implant design influences long-term flexion.

Method: We prospectively collected data on patients receiving a primary Genesis II total knee replacement with a minimum of 1-year followup (mean, 5.4 years; range, 1–13 years). We recorded pre – and postoperative outcome measures, patient demographics, and implant design (cruciate retaining [CR, n = 160], posterior stabilized [PS, n = 1177], high-flex posterior stabilized [HF-PS, n = 197]).

Results: Backward stepwise linear regression modeling revealed the following factors that significantly affected postoperative flexion: preoperative flexion, gender, body mass index, and implant design. Independent of gender, body mass index, and preoperative flexion, patients who received a HF-PS and PS design implant resulted in 8° and 5° more flexion, respectively, than those who received a CR implant. Based on analysis examining pre-operative flexion categories, patients with low flexion preoperatively (< 100°) were more likely to gain flexion, whereas those with high flexion preoperatively (> 120°) were most likely to maintain or lose flexion postoperatively. Controlling for implant design, patients with high flexion preoperatively (> 120°) were more likely to gain flexion with the HF-PS design implant (HF-PS = 32.0%; PS = 15.1%; CR = 4.5%).

Conclusion: In summary, our data demonstrate postoperative range of motion after TKA is related to several factors, confirming the important role of the patient’s preoperative range of motion. In addition, our review suggests knee design and, in particular, the use of a so called “high-flexion” PS polyethylene design may be advantageous in maintaining or improving flexion postoperatively, especially in those patients with good pre-operative range of motion.

Purpose: Recently, there has been concern raised on the occurrence of pseudotumors after metal on metal hip resurfacing. A pseudotumor is defined as a local soft tissue mass associated with localized bony and/or tissue (muscle) destruction. The primary purpose of this study is to determine the incidence of this complication in several high volume Canadian academic centres.

Method: Nine of the 11 Canadian academic centres who perform metal on metal hip resurfacings were surveyed. The number of metal on metal hip resurfacing arthroplasties performed at each centre was first determined, as were the number of those who have presented with a pseudotumour, and subsequently gone on to revision surgery. The basic demographics of the group were recorded, as were the radiographic and implant design variables for those cases presenting with a pseudotumour.

Results: A sample of 3,400 hip resurfacing arthroplasties performed between 2002 and December 2008 were surveyed. Demographics were tabulated for a sub-sample of these patients. 76% were male, the mean length of follow-up was 3.02 years, mean BMI was 28.65, and mean age was 52.10 years. Three of 3,400 cases presented with a pseudotumour, an incidence of .09%.

Conclusion: Although pseudotumors remain a concern after metal on metal hip resurfacing, the incidence at short to mid term follow-up is very low in this multi-centre academic survey. This information is significantly lower than what other groups have recently reported. Continued close monitoring is required in order to determine what clinical factors are at play.

Purpose: Efforts to decrease polyethylene wear have lead to advances in polyethylene and counter-face technology for total hip replacement. In particular, the use of highly cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) and more recently, oxidized zirconium (Oxinium) heads, have demonstrated significant in-vitro improvements in THR wear. This study reports on the early clinical performance and wear (measured with RSA) of an randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing Oxinium and CoCr heads on XLPE and conventional polyethylene (CPE).

Method: Forty patients were enrolled in a RCT and stratified to receive either an Oxinium (Ox) or CoCr head against either XLPE or CPE (ie 10 patients in each group). All patients had otherwise identical THRs and had tantalum beads inserted in the pelvis and polyethylene for wear analysis. There were no significant differences between groups with respect to patient demographics and the average age was 68 years (range 57–76) at index procedure. RSA wear analysis was performed immediately post-op, at six weeks, three and six months and then at one and two years. All patients are a minimum of four years post-op (average 4.6, range 4 – 5.8). Patients were followed prospectively using validated clinical outcome scores (WOMAC, SF-12, Harris Hip scores) and radiographs.

Results: All health-related outcomes were significantly improved from pre-operative with a mean Harris Hip score and WOMAC at last follow-up of 90.9 and 80.2, respectively. Total 3D femoral head penetration at two years for each group were the following: CoCrXLPE (0.068±0.029mm); OxXLPE (0.115±0.038mm); CoCrCPE (0.187±0.079mm); and OxCPE (0.242±0.088mm). Thus, OxCPE was significantly higher than OxXLPE and CoCrXLPE but not CoCrCPE (p=0.001, p> 0.0001 and p=0.094, respectively). In other words, head penetration was higher with CPE compared to XLPE but there was no significant difference between Ox and CoCr heads. Similarily, regardless of head type (ie combining similar poly types), there was a significant difference in 3D head penetration at two years between CPE and XLPE ( CPE 0.213±0.086; XLPE 0.093±0.041, p> 0.0001).

Conclusion: The early results of this RCT, using RSA as the wear analysis tool, indicate a significant improvement in wear with XLPE compared to CPE. However, it failed to show a clear advantage to the use of Oxinium over CoCr against either polyethylene. Longer follow-up is required to determine steady-state wear rates (after bedding-in) and allow comparison between bearing groups.

Purpose: The Genesis II total knee arthroplasty system was introduced in 1996 as the next evolution in TKR design characterized by “built-in” femoral external rotation and improved trochlear design to optimize patellar tracking and femoral/tibial kinematics, as well as a polished tibial base plate and ethylene-oxide sterilized polyethylene to minimize wear. The purpose of this prospective study was to evaluate the long-term (minimum 10 year) clinical and radiographic results and survivorship of this novel TKA implant system.

Method: Between 1996 and 1999, 478 Genesis II Primary TKRs were implanted and followed prospectively in 414 patients (mean follow-up 11.25±1.11 years). Diagnosis at index surgery included: 94% osteoarthritis, 5% inflammatory arthritis, 1% other diagnoses. Average age at index TKR was 68 years (range 38 to 93 years). There were 149 posterior cruciate retaining (31%) and 329 cruciate sacrificing (69%) knees implanted. Patella resurfacing was performed on 89% (432) of the cases. Sixty-seven deaths occurred prior to 10 years follow-up. Patients were followed prospectively using validated clinical outcome scores (WOMAC, SF-12, Knee Society scores) and radiographs. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed.

Results: All health-related outcomes were significantly improved from preoperative with a mean Knee Society Score and WOMAC at last follow-up of 162 and 69, respectively. To date, 16 revision procedures have been performed. Revisions for infection included six two-stage revisions and two cases of irrigation & debridement with polyethylene exchange. In addition, there were three re-operations for stiffness and one for patellar instability. To date, there have been only two revisions for aseptic loosening and/or osteolysis. Excluding revisions for infection, the Kaplan-Meier survivorship analysis of the total knee system was 98.9±0.5% at five years and 98.2±0.6% at 10 years.

Conclusion: The Genesis II total knee arthroplasty system, characterized by “built-in” femoral external rotation, improved trochlear design, a polished tibial base plate and ethylene-oxide sterilized polyethylene, has demonstrated excellent clinical & radiographic results and long-term survivorship (98% at 10 years) at our institution.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the greater than 20 year survivorship of the PCA total hip arthroplasty (THA) in patients with severe hip osteoarthritis.

Method: A prospective follow-up of 315 consecutive patients treated with a PCA cementless THA in patients with hip osteoarthritis was performed. Patients had postoperative assessments and radiographs every two years. Overall THA, femoral stem and acetabular cup revisions and Kaplan-Meier survivorship was determined. Revision rates and survivorship was also investigated across gender.

Results: The mean age of our patients was 61 years old (range 20 to 86) with 47% female patients. 226 cases used a 26mm articulation and 89 cases a 32mm articulation. At 23 years follow-up, 188(60%) patients were alive with retained implants while 85(27%) were deceased with still implants that were functioning well. Forty-two cases (13%) were revised (30 sockets, 13 stems), five of which later deceased. The 20 year Kaplan Meier survivorship for the overall THA, stem component and acetabular cup were 86%, 97% and 90% respectively. Survivorship of the acetabular cup for 26mm and 32mm articulations was 92% and 85% respectively (p=0.016). Females had a worse THA survivorship than males, 82% and 91% respectively (p=0.036).

Conclusion: The PCA cementless THA has performed well beyond 20 years with 26 mm articulations doing better than 32 mm, and male gender associated with better outcomes. The authors postulate that polyethylene thickness is key to predicting failure.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the mid to long term (minimum 10 years follow-up) survivorship of the AMK total knee arthroplasty (TKA), as well as determine the effect of implant fixation on outcome.

Method: Between 1988 and 2000, 1074 AMK primary total knee arthroplasties were preformed on 843 patients. All diagnosis included, the distribution was 90% osteoarthritis (971), 7% inflammatory arthritis (76) and 3% other diagnoses (27). Average time from surgery was 15 years (range 10–21 years). Average age at primary procedure was 68 years (range 22–99). Fifty-six percent were female (599) and 44% male (475). Preoperative alignment consisted of 56% varus (601) and 17% valgus (182). Ninety percent (968) had patella resurfacing performed, 62% (661) received cemented TKA fixation, on 32% hybrid fixation (cemented femoral component, cementless tibial tray) was performed and 6% (66) had cementless fixation. Two hundred thirty-seven cases were deceased before 20 years follow-up (22%).

Results: At 10 to 21 years follow-up, 129 revisions were performed (12%). The most common reasons for revision were polyethylene wear, particle induced osteolysis, instability and pain (43% of revisions). Implant fixation significantly influenced the rate of revision with cemented fixation having a 6.7% rate of revision (44/661), hybrid fixation a 14% revision rate (47/336) and cementless a 36.4% revision rate (24/66). Excluding infections (11 cases), overall Kaplan-Meier survivorship at five, 10 and 15 years was 96.4%, 91.9% and 85.8%, respectively. At 20 years the predicted Kaplan-Meier survivorship was estimated at 83.5% (no revisions beyond 17.5 years). Cemented fixation was associated with significantly better survivorship than hybrid and cementless fixation (p< 0.0001). At 5, 10 and 15 years cemented AMK TKA survivorship was 97.5%, 94.9% and 91.9% respectively (no revision performed beyond 13.5 years). For hybrid fixation the survival at 5, 10 and 15 years was 97.8%, 92.2% and 85.1% respectively. Cementless AMK THA had a Kaplan-Meier survivor-ship of 88.9%, 78.2% and 57.4% at 5, 10 and 15 years respectively.

Conclusion: Cemented fixation had superior outcomes compared to cementless and hybrid fixation with the most common reasons for revision being polyethylene wear and osteolysis. To our knowledge this the first medium to long term follow-up of the AMK TKA and it demonstrates that method of fixation had a major influence on revision rates and survivorship.

Purpose: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a proven intervention in the management of end-stage knee arthritis. However, the demands of younger, more active patients may result in increased rates of wear and aseptic loosening. The purpose of this study was to assess the long-term outcome of a large cohort of young patients, and to assess if the outcomes of cemented implants differed from non-cemented implants.

Method: Between 1984 and 2003, 350 TKAs were performed in 283 patients who were under 55 years old. Patients were followed a minimum of 5 years. Mean age at time of surgery was 49.0±5.5 years; 64% of patients were female. Primary knee pathologies included degenerative and post-traumatic arthritis (271), inflammatory arthritis (62), and others (17). Multiple implant designs were used; 296 knees were cemented and 54 were non-cemented. The Knee Society Clinical Rating Score (KSCRS) at latest follow-up was calculated. The Kaplan-Meier survivorship was calculated using an endpoint of revision total knee arthroplasty.

Results: Mean follow-up was 8.7±3.4 years. Seventeen knees were revised at a mean of 7.1±4.4 years after the index procedure. Fifteen patients (twenty-five knees) died. Fifty-one patients (sixty-two knees) were lost to follow-up. Sixty patients (sixty-seven knees) had incomplete KSCRS forms. Average function and knee domains of the KSCRS were 70.0±26.7 and 87.3±16.2 respectively. The Kaplan-Meier survival at five, ten, and fifteen years was 0.965±0.011, 0.941±0.015, and 0.933±0.017. The rate of revision was 5.9%. There was no statistically significantly difference observed between the outcomes of cemented and non-cemented implants, male and female patients, or inflammatory versus non-inflammatory arthritis.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that total knee replacement in younger patients can demonstrate excellent survival rates free of revision. There does not appear to be an obvious survival advantage of cementless designs, or difference in outcomes based on sex of the patient or primary diagnosis of inflammatory or non-inflammatory arthritis.

Purpose: Approximately, 10% of two-stage TKA revisions for deep sepsis become re-infected. The purpose of this study was to determine the success in terms of sepsis eradication and factors associated with failure of repeat two-stage revision TKA.

Method: Between 1991 and 2006, 129 two-stage revision TKRs for deep sepsis were performed. Ten cases which became re-infected were identified. These unfortunate patients, representing 8% of all the two-stage TKA revisions performed during this time period, are the focus of this study. Their progress and treatment interventions were followed for the purposes of this study.

Results: Ten patients were identified with a two-stage revision TKA which became re-infected. Mean patient age was 72 with 40 % being female. Following recurrent sepsis all patients went on to require more than one further two-stage revision (mean 3.67 further revision surgeries). Infection was only successfully eradicated in 28.7% of cases, the remaining require chronic suppressive therapy or have ongoing active infection. Two patients went on to have an arthrodesis (both remain on suppressive anti-biotics) and one patient had trans-femoral amputation. Staph Aureus and Coagulase neg Staph accounted for 80% of primary infective organisms with only one primary infection with methicillin resistant staph aureus (MRSA). Cultures at subsequent revisions were the same organism in 67% cases. Additional organism cultured included Pseudomonas and Propionibacterium. These patients had an increased incidence of multiple medical co-morbidities including Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus and Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Conclusion: Patients with recurrent sepsis after a two-stage revision for infection in TKR all required multiple further surgeries. Eradication of infection was only achieved in 28.7% cases. Risk factors for recurrent sepsis include Rheumatoid Arthritis and Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus.

Purpose: There is no consensus whether the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL)should be preserved (CR) or sacrificed (CS) during primary total knee replacement (TKR). The purpose of this study was to compare the greater than 10 year survivorship and health related outcomes of CR and CS TKRs using a single implant system.

Method: Between 1996 and 2000, 478 Genesis II Primary TKRs were inserted in 414 patients. Excluding those with a primary diagnosis other than osteoarthritis, body mass index greater then 40, history of prior patellectomy, fusion or osteotomy, 358 cases in 310 patients were included. 134 (37%) had a PCL preserving (CR) and 224 (63%) had a PCL sacrificing implant (CS). The two patient cohorts were compared for Kaplan-Meier survivorship, health-related outcomes (Knee Society scores, WOMAC, SF-12), range of motion (ROM) and radiographic loosening or wear.

Results: Mean follow-up was 11.87±1.04 years for CR and 10.96±0.87 years for CS (p=0.001). Four cases were revised for infection. No significant differences were noted between the CR and CS Genesis II cohorts at 10 year Kaplan-Meier survivorship excluding infections (CR 0.984±0.011, CS 0.986±0.008, p=0.30). Overall revisions were two for CR (1.5%, no infections) and seven for CS (1.7%, four for infection; 1.3% excluding infections). Revision rates were not significantly different between groups including or excluding infections (p=0.493 and p=1.00 respectively). CS had significantly greater postoperative ROM than CR (CS=114.20±13.60, CR=111.35±12.38, p=0.024). At 10 years, no differences were observed in satisfaction, health-related outcomes or radiographic wear/loosening. Crepitus was reported more frequently in CS design.

Conclusion: Most studies comparing PCL sacrificing (CS) versus retaining (CR) TKRs are short term. In this large, long term, single implant CR versus CS study, no differences were found in Kaplan-Meier survivorship, health-related outcomes or patient satisfaction. The CS design had more range of motion, but also a higher incidence of peripatellar crepitus than the CR design. We conclude that both CR and CS TKR designs can yield excellent long term clinical outcomes.

Purpose: High contact stresses and wear after total knee replacement (TKR) has been a problem. Mobile bearing TKRs have been advocated as a means to increase load bearing area, reduce contact stresses and minimize wear. The purpose of this study was to compare two, large, consecutive cohorts of TKR patients with greater than 10 years follow-up, one with a fixed bearing and one with a mobile bearing design.

Method: One hundred and three SAL II mobile bearing TKR’s were compared to a gender, age, BMI and time from surgery matched fixed bearing Genesis II cohort of equal size. All surgeries were performed between September 1993 and December 2000 (average follow-up, 11.64±1.64 years). Inclusion criteria included patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. Exclusion criteria included revision arthroplasty, inflammatory arthritis, a prior osteotomy or a prior patellectomy. The > 10 year Kaplan-Meier survivorship, health-related outcomes (Knee Society scores, WOMAC and SF-12), radiographs and retrieved implants for the fixed and mobile bearing TKR cohorts were compared.

Results: Fixed bearing TKRs demonstrated better 10 year Kaplan-Meier survivorships for any re-operation, 1.000±0.000 compared to 0.969±0.018 for mobile bearings (Genesis II and SAL I/II respectively). Revision rates were significantly different between groups with fixed bearing having no revisions and mobile four revisions (3.9%). No cases were revised for sepsis. Mobile bearing revisions were for pain (1), patellar maltracking (1), polyethylene wear (1) and aseptic loosening (1). At 10 years, health-related outcomes were similar between the two cohorts. Fixed bearing TKRs demonstrated more range of motion (111.42±12.76 vs 107.19±14.74 degrees) although not significant (p=0.052). Wear was more frequently noted in mobile bearing TKRs on > 10 year radiographs.

Conclusion: In this comparison of two contemporary TKRs, the fixed bearing TKR outperformed the mobile bearing TKR.

Purpose: The purpose of this prospective blinded randomized control trial was to compare the stem migration of two cemented stem designs using radiostereometric analysis (RSA). This was essentially a safety study in which our hypothesis was that the newer design (CPCS, Smith and Nephew Inc) would demonstrate similar micro-motion to the well-established Exeter (Stryker) design.

Method: Thirty patients were consented and enrolled into a blinded RCT in which 15 patients received a dedicated RSA CPCS stem and 15 patients received a RSA Exeter stem. Both stems are collarless tapered polished cemented stems, the only difference being a slight lateral to medial taper with the CPCS design. Outcome measures were compared (Hip Society Score, WOMAC, SF-12). RSA analysis was conducted immediately postoperatively, at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year and 2 years.

Results: No difference was found in any of the outcome measures pre-operatively or postoperatively. At 2 years, stem subsidence for the CPCS stem was approximately half that seen for the Exeter stem (0.565±0.189mm and 0.981±0.209mm respectively, p< 0.0001). In contrast, posterior (internal) rotation of the CPCS was approximately twice that of the Exeter stem (1.496±1.215° and 0.716±0.818° respectively, p=0.221). Other migration patterns were no different between stems.

Conclusion: As expected with this stem design, both stems showed some axial and rotational migration within the cement mantle. The subtle differences in design may explain the differences in migration patterns. Our data suggests that the newer CPCS design should perform well over the long-term.

Purpose: The Synergy femoral component was introduced in late 1996 as a second generation titanium proximally porous-coated tapered stem with dual offsets (standard & high) to help better restore femoral offset at THR. The purpose of this prospective study was to evaluate the long-term (minimum 10 year) clinical and radiographic results and survivorship of this second-generation femoral component at our institution.

Method: From December 1996 to December 1999, 256 cementless Synergy femoral components were inserted and followed prospectively in 254 patients requiring THR. 185 were standard offset stems(72.3%) while 71 stems (27.7%) were high offset. The average follow-up was 11.2 years (range 10.0 to 12.9 years). Average age at index THR was 58.9 years (range 19 to 86 years). Two hundred eight stems had standard porous coating while 48 had additional HA coating. Fifty-two cases were either lost to follow-up or had died prior to 10 years follow-up. Patients were followed prospectively using validated clinical outcome scores (WOMAC, SF-12, Harris Hip scores) and radiographs. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed.

Results: All health-related outcomes were significantly improved from pre-operative with a mean Harris Hip score and WOMAC at last follow-up of 91.6 and 81.8, respectively. From the initial 256 femoral stems inserted, only 5 stems have been revised. Two stems have been revised for infection. To date, only one stem has been revised due to subsidence at nine months following surgery likely, as a result of a calcar fracture occurring at the index THR. Two stems were revised for peri-prosthetic fracture as a result of patient falls at six months and 9.8 years post-op. Radiographic review of remaining stems in-situ identified no cases of loosening with all stems showing evidence of osseous integration. The Kaplan-Meier survivorship analysis of the femoral component, with revision for aseptic loosening, was 99.2%±0.008 at five, 10 and 12 years.

Conclusion: The Synergy femoral component, a second generation titanium proximally porous-coated tapered stem design with dual offsets, has demonstrated excellent clinical & radiographic results and long-term survivorship (99% at 10 years) at our institution.

Purpose: Accurate measurement of dynamic joint motion remains a clinical challenge. To address this problem, we have developed a low-dose clinical procedure using the Roentgen Single-plane Photogrammetric Analysis (RSPA) technique. A validation study was performed in a clinical setting, using a conventional digital flat-panel radiography system.

Method: To validate the technique, three experiments were performed: assessment of static accuracy, dynamic repeatability and measurement of effective dose. A knee joint phantom, imbedded with tantalum markers, was utilized for the experiments. Relative spatial positions of the markers were reconstructed using Radiostereometric Analysis (RSA). A digital flat-panel radiography system was used for image acquisition, and the three-dimensional pose of each segment was determined from single-plane projections by applying the RSPA technique. All images were processed using software developed in-house. To assess static accuracy, the phantom was mounted onto a three-axis translational stage and moved through a series of displacements ranging from 0 to 500 μm. Images of the phantom were acquired at each position. Accuracy was calculated by analyzing differences between reconstructed and applied displacements. To assess dynamic repeatability, the phantom was mounted on a six-axis robot, programmed to apply a flexion-extension movement to the joint. Multiple cine acquisitions of the moving phantom were acquired (30 fps, 4 ms exposure). Repeatability was calculated by analyzing the variation between motions reconstructed from repeated acquisitions. The effective dose of the procedure was measured using an ion-chamber dosimeter. The ion chamber was positioned between the phantom and x-ray source, facing the source. Entrance exposure was measured for multiple acquisitions, from which the effective dose was calculated.

Results: The accuracy determined from the static assessment was 25 μm and 450μm at the 95% confidence intervals for translations parallel and orthogonal to the image plane, respectively. Repeatability of the motion reconstructed from dynamic acquisitions was better than ± 200 μm for translations and ± 0.1 for rotations. The average effective dose for a 6 second dynamic acquisition was approximately 2μSv.

Conclusion: The proposed clinical procedure demonstrates both a high degree of accuracy and repeatability, and delivers a low effective dose.

Purpose: The growing trend of morbidly obese (BMI 40+) patients requiring a total joint replacement is becoming major concern in total knee Arthroplasty (TKA). The purpose of this study was to investigate the affects that BMI may have on implant longevity and clinical patient outcome using historical patient data.

Method: A consecutive cohort of 3083 TKA’s in 2048 patients since 1995 (minimum 2 years follow-up) were evaluated. Pre-operative scores, latest scores, and change in clinical outcome scores (KSCRS, SF12, WOMAC) were analyzed using ANOVA and Kaplan-Meier (K-M) survivorship was determined.

Results: K-M cumulative survival at 10 years by BMI group was 0.951±0.033 for Normal and Underweight (< 25, n=277), 0.944±0.024 for Overweight (25–29.9, n=915), 0.882±0.032 for Obese (30–39.9, n=1460) and 0.843±0.076 for Morbidly Obese (40+, n=352). Cumulative revision rates were 1.8% for Normal and Underweight, 1.9% for Overweight, 2.9% for Obese and 2.8% for Morbidly Obese. All pre-operative clinical scores were significantly different between the Morbidly Obese and all other BMI groups (p< 0.05), with the non-morbidly obese having higher scores in all cases. Significant difference was found in the change in WOMAC domain scores and the KSCRS knee score (p< 0.05) between the morbidly obese group and all other BMI groups, with the morbidly obese having the greatest improvement in all domains.

Conclusion: The morbidly obese patient cohort (BMI > 40) undergoing TKA demonstrated the most significant improvement in clinical outcome scores; however also had the lowest cumulative 10 year survivorship. This risk/benefit information is important in pre-operative discussions with this challenging, and increasingly prevalent, patient population.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine why some TKR patients are satisfied and others are dissatisfied.

Method: 2,481 primary TKR patients who had completed a decision date WOMAC were randomly identified within the Ontario Joint Replacement Registry (OJRR) database. One year post-operatively, these patients were mailed a survey to determine satisfaction/expectations, willingness to undergo surgery again, Jaeschke self-reported clinical improvement, WOMAC scores and complications. The satisfied and not satisfied patient groups were identified, statistical analysis employed to determine variables that individually affect satisfaction and logistic regression used to identify significant factors which might lead to patient dissatisfaction.

Results: Only 70% of primary TKR patients felt that their expectations had been met and 15% reported that they had no expectations. Only 81% of patients reported that they were satisfied with their TKR. When asked whether they would have their surgery again, 96% of the satisfied patients reported that they would do so as compared to only 63% in the dissatisfied group (p< 0.0001). Using the Jaeschke self-reported clinical improvement scale, 87% of TKR patients reported that they were improved, but only 75% reported that they were a good, great or a very great deal improved. There was a high correlation with the WOMAC change score and the Jaeschke self-reported improvement and willingness to undergo surgery again questions. Significant differences were found between the satisfied and dissatisfied TKR patients in terms of a pre-operative WOMAC score of < 20 (p< 0.004), the WOMAC change score (p< 0.0001), expectations (p< 0.0001), complications (p< 0.0001), age (p< 0.002), referral status (p< 0.0005), living alone (p< 0.01) and comorbidities (p< 0.05). Logistic regression suggested that the most important predictive factors were a pre-operative WOMAC < 20 (p< 004), the WOMAC change score (p< 0.0001), expectations met (p< 0.0001) and complications (p< 0.0001).

Conclusion: Only one in five primary TKR patients are satisfied with their operative procedure. Significant risk factors for patient dissatisfaction after primary TKR include a pre-operative WOMAC < 20, a WOMAC change score of less than 33 points, expectations that were not met or a complication.

Purpose: There are two broad-based categories of cementless femoral components performed during total hip arthroplasty: proximally coated versus fully porous coated. While both have enjoyed widespread clinical applications, there remains debate regarding differences in clinical outcome scores, relative incidence of thigh pain and the development of stress shielding. The purpose of this study was to investigate these variables in a multi-center prospective randomized blinded clinical trial.

Method: Between three centers 388 patients were enrolled in this clinical trial. 198 patients received a proximally coated tapered cementless femoral component (Synergy, Smith and Nephew, Memphis) and 190 patients received a fully porous coated cementless femoral component (Prodigy, Depuy, Warsaw). Patients were evaluated pre-operatively, at 3, 6, 12 months and annually thereafter, with multiple validated outcome measures including WOMAC, SF12, HSS, UCLA activity and thigh pain scores. A cohort of 72 patients underwent preoperative and postoperative DEXA scanning.

Results: 367 patients had a minimum of 2 years follow-up (average 6.4 years). There were no differences in age at surgery, BMI, or pre-operative clinical outcome scores (WOMAC, SF12, HSS, UCLA activity, thigh pain) between groups. There were no differences in any post-operative clinical outcome scores at any interval of follow-up. There were no differences in incidence of thigh pain between groups at any time. The only measurable difference between study groups was in bone mineral density evaluation. Bone density change in Gruen zone 7 was 23.7% with the Prodigy stem and 15.3% with the Synergy stem (p=0.011).

Conclusion: Both fully porous coated and proximally porous coated cementless stems performed well, with no clinical differences at a minimum of 2 years follow-up. Only bone mineral density evaluations could detect any differences between these femoral components designs.

Purpose: A randomised controlled trial comparing fixation of a Mallory-Head prosthesis for total hip arthroplasty (THA) with and without cement was performed with average 19 years (range 17–21 years) of continuous follow-up.

Method: Two hundred and fifty patients were randomised to undergo THA using either a Mallory-Head THA prosthesis designed to be inserted with cement or one designed for cementless insertion. Both patients and those involved in outcome assessment were blinded to the type of implantation. Patients were followed yearly after the first post-operative year for outcomes including mortality, revision arthroplasty, and health-related quality of life assessment scores.

Results: Primary THA was performed with cement in 124 patients and without cement in 126 patients. Mean age at the time of surgery was 64 years, and 48% were female. During the period of review, there were 78 (31%) deaths in the cohort, and 75 (30%) patients underwent revision surgery. Kaplan-Meier survivorship analysis revealed significantly increased revision rates in cemented compared with cementless THA using failure of either component (p=0.01) or femoral component (p< 0.001) as endpoints. Although acetabular failure accounted for most revisions overall, no significant difference between groups was noted (p=0.075). With the exception of cost to quality adjusted life years, all quality of life outcome measures improved post-operatively and, although reducing modestly through the period of review, demonstrated no difference between groups at final follow-up.

Conclusion: This study has demonstrated a concerning high revision rate with both cemented and cementless THA in patients with a mean age of 64 years at the time of surgery, which significantly affected cost effectiveness. With the implants studied, cementless femoral fixation was superior to cemented, with no cementless femoral component failures through the duration of this study. This study demonstrates the importance of post-market surveillance and evidence-based improvements in THA design (i.e., bearing couples and fixation).

Purpose: Accurate acetabular cup positioning is essential to successful total hip arthroplasty (THA). Intra-operative navigation of the acetabular component can optimize positioning, but often necessitates registration of the pelvis in the supine position. The majority of surgeons use the lateral position, however, which hides commonly employed registration landmarks. The purpose of this study was to identify novel anatomical landmarks for use in navigated THA from the lateral approach.

Method: We identified 156 patients that underwent pelvic CT scans for non-orthopaedic reasons from which 60 patients (mean age 62 years; 30 males, 30 females) were included in the study. CT scans were analyzed with sophisticated software (region grow, isosurface creation, and geometry overlay features). Saved coordinates from each scan were inputted into the program MATLAB (Mathworks, Natick, MA), v7.0, on a Macintosh-based workstation. A code was created to be able to calculate the normal vector for both planes and then calculate the angle formed between the normal vectors. The anterior plane (pubic tubercle (PT) and anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS)) was defined in addition to a series of lateral planes by retaining the ipsilateral PT and ASIS from the anterior plane, plus a variable third landmark. Angles obtained were those between the anterior and lateral planes. Angle conversions between the planes were analyzed using a paired t-test with a p-value of < 0.05 accepted as significant.

Results: The list of landmarks acquired included those used for supine registration (PT and ASIS) in addition to: posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS); posterior inferior iliac spine, (PIIS); ischial tuberosity (IT); tuber-culum of the iliac crest (TIC); and a line drawn along the outer lip of the iliac crest. The angle between the anterior plane and the novel lateral planes did not show a significant level of variance for two of the proposed lateral planes (P< 0.05).

Conclusion: An imageless navigation system in THA that can be accurately employed in the lateral position will benefit many surgeons. The invariance in angle calculations for the lateral planes calculated using the PSIS and the TIC suggest that they could be novel pelvic landmarks for lateral plane registration.

We evaluated the outcome of primary total hip replacement (THR) in 3290 patients with the primary diagnosis of osteoarthritis at a minimum follow-up of two years. They were stratified into categories of body mass index (BMI) based on the World Health Organisation classification of obesity. Statistical analysis was carried out to determine if there was a difference in the post-operative Western Ontario and McMaster Universities osteoarthritis index, the Harris hip score and the Short-Form-12 outcome based on the BMI.

While the pre- and post-operative scores were lower for the group classified as morbidly obese, the overall change in outcome scores suggested an equal if not greater improvement compared with the non-morbidly obese patients. The overall survivorship and rate of complications were similar in the BMI groups although there was a slightly higher rate of revision for sepsis in the morbidly obese group.

Morbid obesity does not affect the post-operative outcome after THR, with the possible exception of a marginally increased rate of infection. Therefore withholding surgery based on the BMI is not justified.

This was a safety study where the hypothesis was that the newer-design CPCS femoral stem would demonstrate similar early clinical results and micromovement to the well-established Exeter stem. Both are collarless, tapered, polished cemented stems, the only difference being a slight lateral to medial taper with the CPCS stem. A total of 34 patients were enrolled in a single-blinded randomised controlled trial in which 17 patients received a dedicated radiostereometric CPCS stem and 17 a radiostereometric Exeter stem. No difference was found in any of the outcome measures pre-operatively or post-operatively between groups. At two years, the mean subsidence for the CPCS stem was nearly half that seen for the Exeter stem (0.77 mm (−0.943 to 1.77) and 1.25 mm (0.719 to 1.625), respectively; p = 0.032). In contrast, the mean internal rotation of the CPCS stem was approximately twice that of the Exeter (1.61° (−1.07° to 4.33°) and 0.59° (0.97° to 1.64°), respectively; p = 0.048). Other migration patterns were not significantly different between the stems. The subtle differences in designs may explain the different patterns of migration.

Comparable migration with the Exeter stem suggests that the CPCS design will perform well in the long term.

Purpose: The increasing trend of morbidly obese patients (BMI 40+) requiring joint replacement is becoming a growing concern in Total Hip Replacement (THR) surgery. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence that BMI may have on implant longevity and clinical outcome using prospectively collected patient data.

Method: A consecutive cohort of 2864 THR’s in 2488 patients with osteoarthritis and a minimum 2 years follow-up were evaluated. Patients were divided into appropriate BMI categories; Normal and Underweight (BMI< 25, n=650), Overweight (BMI 25–29.9, n=1069), Obese (BMI 30–39.9, n=981), and Morbidly Obese (BMI 40+, n=164). Pre-operative, latest, and change in clinical outcome scores (HSS, SF12, WOMAC) were analyzed using ANOVA and Kaplan-Meier (K-M) survivorship was determined. Categorical variables such as gender and survival status were analyzed using chi-squared.

Results: Morbidly Obese patients requiring THR’s were significantly younger than all other BMI groups by 5.4±0.83 years (p< 0.0001). Gender was also significant to BMI grouping with more females being Morbidly Obese and Normal or Underweight (p< 0.0001). All pre-operative and latest HHS and WOMAC domain scores were lower for the Morbidly Obese, significantly in all preoperative score domains and latest HHS Function (p< 0.05). The change in clinical scores from pre-operative to latest was greatest in all domains for the Morbidly Obese group. K-M cumulative survival with implant revision as the endpoint at 10 years was not different between the BMI groups. Revision rates for infection for the Morbidly Obese, Obese, Overweight, and Normal were 1.3%, 0.65%, 0.3% and 0.69% respectively. Overall Revision rates for the Morbidly Obese, Obese, Overweight, and Normal were 6.7%, 5.4%, 6.9% and 5.7% respectively and were not found to be significant (p=0.496).

Conclusion: The Morbidly Obese cohort undergoing THR had significantly lower preoperative and lower postoperative clinical outcome scores than all other BMI groups but demonstrated the most significant improvement. No difference was found in the K-M survivorship although revisions and revisions for infection were not equal between the groups

Purpose: The results of medial unicompartmental knee replacement have been reported as excellent over the intermediate term with both fixed and mobile bearing designs. However not all publications report equal success, with different outcomes also reported between mobile and fixed bearing designs. The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes of mobile and fixed bearing medial unicompartmental arthroplasties.

Method: We evaluated the results of 230 consecutive medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasties (UKA) designs performed between 1989 and 2006 at a single academic centre (London Health Sciences Centre). Eighty mobile bearing UKA (63 patients, mean follow up3.2 years) and 160 fixed bearing UKA (117 patients, mean follow up 6.2 years) were reviewed. The mean age of the patients at the time of surgery was 66 years. Forty nine patients died at a mean of 12.7 years after the index arthroplasty. Patients were evaluated clinically using the Knee Society, WOMAC and SF12 outcome scores and radiographically using the Knee Society rating system.

Results: In the fixed bearing group 21 knees underwent revision at a mean of 6.9 years after the index procedure. In the mobile bearing group 7 knees underwent revision at a mean of 2.6 years. The mean Knee Society knee and function scores for the patients who had not had a revision improved in both groups, with the fixed bearing group mean function and Knee Society Scores improving from 53 and 48 points preoperatively to 80 and 93 points at the time of the most recent evaluation. In the mobile bearing group the mean function and Knee Society Scores improved from 55 and 44 points preoperatively to 85 and 91 points at the time of the most recent evaluation. The five year cumulative survival rates were 96% (SE +/− 0.18) and 89% (SE +/− 0.46) for the fixed and mobile bearing designs respectively, with ten year cumulative survival rates of 85% (SE +/− 0.35) in the fixed bearing group using an endpoint of revision to tricompartmental knee arthroplasty.

Conclusion: Both bearing designs of medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty provided excellent pain relief and restoration of function in carefully selected patients and demonstrated durable implant survival over the midterm. In this study the fixed bearing designs demonstrated improved survivorship over the mobile bearing designs at 5 years. This may be related to the learning curve of the different bearing systems.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to compare the clinical results of a standard polyethylene tibial insert versus the high flex polyethylene tibial insert component designs of a posterior cruciate substituting total knee replacement.

Method: One-hundred patients were entered into a prospective, randomized clinical trial comparing standard polyethylene tibial inserts versus the high flex polyethylene tibial insert component designs of posterior cruciate substituting total knee replacement(Genesis II, Smith & Nephew, Memphis, TN). Patients were evaluated pre-operatively, at 3, 12 months and annually thereafter. Patient demographics, radiographs, and multiple outcome measures (WOMAC, SF-12 and the Knee Society Clinical Rating System) were evaluated.

Results: No patients were lost to follow-up. One patient died prior to the two year follow up. Ninety- nine patients were reviewed at an average follow-up of 2.7 years (range 2.3 – 3.1 years). There were no significant differences in any outcome measures or radiographic findings. There were no differences in KSCRS at two years (Standard − 170, High Flex −171). There were no differences in knee flexion at 2 years (Standard− 125°, High Flex − 126°).

Conclusion: In this prospective randomized clinical trial, no differences could be seen between standard polyethylene and a “Hi- Flex” polyethylene design at a minimum of 2 years follow-up. In particular, no improvement in knee flexion was observed. Long-term evaluation will be required to comment on differences in polyethylene wear and implant longevity.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the clinical and radiographic outcomes at a minimum follow-up of ten years of patients who underwent a total knee arthroplasty with an inset patellar component. The incidence of anterior knee pain and the factors which may contribute to were also studied.

Method: Patients who had genesis I/II TKA with an inset patellar button with a minimum follow-up of 10 years were identified. 448 patients with 521 knees were identified. Patients were excluded if they were deceased, had incomplete data, were unable to be contacted or had a known or impending revision. Those who had revision were included in a Kaplan-Meier survivorship analysis. The included patients, deceased patients and those lost to follow-up were named group1, 2, and 3 respectively. Demographics and Knee society scores(KSS) were studies for all 3 groups. This was to identify any exclusion bias. Presence and severity of anterior knee pain as well as radiographic factors were collected for group 3. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify and variables that influenced the KSS and presence of anterior knee pain. Kaplan-Meier survivorship analysis was performed for patellar revision and tibial/femoral revision endpoints.

Results: 144 patients with 175 TKA were included in this study. They were on average 66 years old, 64% female, had a BMI of 30 and had a diagnosis of OA 92% of the time. Their average f/u was 11.3 years. Groups 2 and 3 had similar demographics but of course a much shorter f/u. Group 1 had a pre-op KSS of 84 a post-op KSS of 151 and a KS change score of 67. Groups 2 and 3 had similar pre-op, post-op and KSS change scores. We found anterior knee pain occurred in 5% of patients with an average severity of 5/10. Linear regression analysis did not identify any variables including radiographic parameters that had an independent influence on KSS or anterior knee pain. Kaplan-Meier survivorship with patellar revision for any reason as an endpoint was 96% at 10 years and 94% at 17 years. 20 patella were known to have had a revision or were undergoing a revision.

Conclusion: We conclude that use of an inset patellar component can give excellent durable results over time with a low rate of anterior knee pain and complications

Purpose: Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty remains a viable treatment modality for arthrosis confined to the medial compartment of the knee. Few studies have reported survivorship of this procedure into the second decade. The purpose of this study was to report our long-term experience with this procedure at a mean follow-up of fifteen years.

Method: Between 1989 and 2000, 113 medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasties in 84 patients were performed using the Miller-Galante prosthesis. The 84 patients had an average age of 68 years old at the time of surgery; 45 of which were male and 39 female. At a mean of fifteen-year follow-up, 22 patients (25 arthroplasties) had died, and the remaining 62 patients (88 arthroplasties) were reviewed and evaluated. No patient was lost to follow-up.

Results: The mean Knee Society knee and function scores had an improvement from 53 and 48 points pre-operatively to 77 and 90 points respectively at time of most recent evaluation. Twenty unicompartmental knee arthroplasties were revised, at an average of seven years (one to fourteen) following index procedure. The five, ten and fifteen-year rates of survival were 94%, 90%, and 86% respectively with revision to tricompartmental knee arthroplasty as the end point.

Conclusion: The Miller-Galante medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty provided excellent pain relief and restoration of function in carefully selected patients and demonstrated durable implant survival at fifteen years. Progression of arthrosis is the primary mode of failure.

Purpose: Gender specific total knee replacement design has been a recently debated controversial topic. The purpose of this study was to investigate the survivor-ship and clinical outcomes of a large primary total knee arthroplasty cohort, specifically assessing any differences between gender groups.

Method: A consecutive cohort of 3817 patients with osteoarthritis, having undergone 5289 primary total knee replacements (3100-female, 2179-male) with a minimum of 2 years follow-up were evaluated. All surgeries were performed at the same institution by one of four surgeons. Pre-operative scores, latest scores, and change in clinical outcome scores (KSCRS, SF12, WOMAC) were compared and tested for significance using the students t-test. Kaplan Meier (K-M) survivor-ship was determined and tested for significance and categorical variables were compared using chi-squared.

Results: Men were significantly taller and heavier than women, while women had significantly higher BMI’s (p< 0.0001). While men had higher raw scores preoperatively, women demonstrated statistically greater improvement (p< 0.019) in all WOMAC domains including pain (29.87 vs. 27.30), joint stiffness (26.78 vs. 24.26), function (27.21 vs. 23.09) and total scores (28.34 vs. 25.09) There were no gender differences in improvements of the SF12 scores. Men demonstrated statistically greater improvement (p< 0.0001) in Knee Society function (22.10 vs. 18.63) and total scores (70.01 vs. 65.42), but not the Knee Society knee score (47.83 vs. 46.64, p=0.084). K-M cumulative survivorship at 10 years was 87.4±.01 for females and 82.9±.014 for males. K-M survivorship distribution was found to be significantly different between gender groups (p< 0.013, Mantel-Cox, Breslow, Tarone-Ware). Revision rates were 10.2% for males and 8.3% for females which was found to be significant by crosstabs with chi-squared (p=0.006).

Conclusion: In this cohort of patients undergoing total knee replacements, women demonstrated statistically greater implant survivorship, statistically greater improvement in WOMAC scores and less improvement in KSCR scores, leading one to question the hypothesis of an inferior clinical outcome in total knee arthroplasty that is gender based.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the reasons for patient dissatisfaction after primary TKA.

Method: Primary TKA patients (n=2513) entered into the Ontario Joint Replacement Registry (OJRR) with decision date and one year follow-up data (WOMAC, expectations, satisfaction and willingness to undergo surgery) were analyzed to determine the factors that might be associated with patients who were not satisfied with their total knee replacement.

Results: The majority of patients were satisfied with their TKA (n=1939, 81%), but 169 (7%) were uncertain and 281 (12%) were not satisfied. Pre-operative expectations were important as 89% of patients who did not have their expectations met and 40% who had no expectations were dissatisfied with their TKA. Factors that affected patient satisfaction for their TKA, controlling for age, comorbidity and post-operative complications were better pre-operative WOMAC function scores (p25 point improvement).

Conclusion: In this province-wide study, one in five TKA patients were not satisfied with their surgery at one-year follow-up. It is important that patients, surgeons and healthcare payers recognize significant factors that can lead to patient dissatisfaction and help patients establish realistic expectations prior to undergoing TKA surgery.

We performed a prospective, randomised, blinded clinical trial comparing metal versus polyethylene bearing surfaces in patients receiving a THA.

Forty-one patients were randomised to receive a metal (twenty-three) or a polyethylene (eighteen) insert with identical femoral and acetabular components. The metal bearing was a 28mm low carbon on high carbon couple. Patients were evaluated pre-operatively, at three, six, twelve months and annually thereafter, including an evaluation of erythrocyte and urine cobalt, chromium, and titanium, outcome measures (WOMAC, SF-12, Harris Hip Score) and radiographs.

No patients were lost to follow-up. At an average 7.2 (range 6.1 – 7.8) years follow-up there were no differences in any outcome measures or radiographic findings. Patients receiving metal liners had significantly elevated metal ion measurements. At most recent follow-up, compared to the polyethylene control group, patients receiving a metal on metal bearing had erythrocyte cobalt levels were eleven times elevated (median 1.4 μg/L (metal) vs 0.12 μg/L (poly), p< .001). Urine cobalt levels were thirty-nine times elevated (median 11.4 μg/L/day (metal) vs 0.29 μg/day (poly), p< .001) and urine chromium levels were twenty-eight times elevated (median 4.75 μg/day (metal) vs 0.17 μg/day (poly), p< .001). Additionally the metal ion levels reached an early steady state level and did not decrease over time. (Erythrocyte Co (μg/L): 1.29 (6 mos), 1.20 (1 yr), 1.0 (2 yr), 1.10 (3 yr), 1.35 (4 yr), 1.40 (5 yr)).

Both cobalt and chromium ion measurements were significantly elevated in the blood and urine of the patients randomised to receive the metal on metal THA at all time intervals. Contrary to previous reports, in 34% of patients with a metal liner, metal ion (erythrocyte cobalt) elevation was still increasing at latest follow-up, and in the overall metal on metal patient cohort, metal ion median levels were not decreasing over time. As in polyethylene wear data, metal ion results are not necessarily generalizable, but are bearing design specific.

In patients with previous patellectomy the optimal constrained implant is not well understood. Previous outcome studies have shown contradictory results. There interpretation is limited by small number of patients, included primary and revision implants or involved a heterogeneous group of different constraint implants.

We performed retrospective match controlled analysis of a posterior stabilised primary total knee arthroplasty in forty-two patients who had previous patellectomy. There were nineteen male and twenty-three female patients. The average age of patients at the time of surgery was fifty-nine years (range from forty-one to seventy-four years). The average time from patellectomy to total knee arthroplasty was seventeen years (range from one to thirty-four years). The average duration of follow-up was 5.3 years with minimum two years follow up (range from two to sixteen years). The control group was matched by age, sex, prosthesis type and surgeon. We used the student-t test to compare the outcome measurement.

Preoperatively, the patellectomy and control groups were not significantly different in terms of Knee Society clinical and functional scores or range of motion. Postoperatively clinical component of the knee society score had a significant difference (p< 0.05) however the functional part of the knee society score didn’t (p> 0.05). In patellectomy group the postoperative clinical and functional score were equal to seventy and fifty-eight respectively. The average clinical component of knee society score in the patellectomy group was twelve points (SE=4.8) lower compare to the knee with intact patella. The patellectomy group also had higher extension lag and poorer extension (higher flexion contracture) at the most recent follow up (p< 0.05).

This study demonstrated the outcome of the largest series of primary total knee arthroplasty with posterior stabilised implant in patient with previous patellectomy. The outcome of surgery was significantly improved but not as good as the knee with intact patella especially the function of the extensor mechanism.

This study reports on the clinical and wear performance of a prospective randomised controlled trial comparing highly cross-linked (XLPE) to conventional polyethylene (PE) in total hip arthroplasty at five years minimum follow-up.

One hundred patients enrolled in a prospective randomised controlled trial received identical hybrid total hip arthroplasties with the exception of the polyethylene insert. Fifty patients received a PE liner (2.5 MRads; gamma-in-nitrogen sterilization) and fifty patients received a XLPE liner (10Mrads; gas-plasma sterilization). Clinical outcomes were determined using Harris Hip, WOMAC and SF-12 scores by an independent study nurse. Femoral head penetration rates were determined using a validated radiographic technique (Hip Analysis Suite 8.0.1.1) based on radiographs at six weeks, one year and yearly post-operatively. Linear regression analysis was performed for both the entire polyethylene groups and on each patient, where the slope represents the steady state head penetration rate (after bedding in) from one to five years follow-up.

None of the patients were lost to follow-up, however, nine patients were deceased before their five year follow-up. Two patients have been revised for loose stems. At average follow-up of 6.0 years (range 5.1–6.8 years), there were no differences in Harris Hip, WOMAC or SF-12 scores. XLPE had a significantly lower (p= 0.03) steady-state head penetration rate of 0.018 mm/year compared to 0.050 mm/year for XLPE (approximately 64% reduction). Analysis of individual patient’s head penetration rates demonstrated a similar significantly lower rate with XLPE (0.004 ± 0.067 mm/year) compared to PE (0.045 ± 0.083 mm/year). Interestingly, when examined by gender, the male PE group had a significantly higher head penetration rate (0.081 ± 0.084 mm/year) than both the male and female XLPE (−0.013 ± 0.104, 0.011 ± 0.074 mm/year, respectively).

At minimum five years follow-up, there were no clinical differences between groups. After bedding-in, there was a significant lower head penetration rate with XLPE compared to PE. Thus, mid-term follow-up appears to demonstrate a significant wear reduction (based on head penetration rates) afforded by first generation XLPE. Long-term follow-up is required to demonstrate the clinical benefit of this new material.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of dalteparin use on transfusion rates and blood loss in patients undergoing primary total joint arthroplasty at our center.

We prospectively studied the transfusion patterns of 1642 patients who underwent primary total hip or knee arthroplasty between January 2004 and December 2005 by five arthroplasty surgeons. The influence of daltaperin use, release of tourniquet in total knee arthroplasty, and the turnover of house staff were analyzed using SPSS V14.0 statistical software.

We identified seven hundred and three total hip and nine hundred and thirty-nine knee arthroplasty patients. The mean haemoglobin drop was statistically significant between 2004 and 2005 (p< 0.001). This was seen in both hip (p=0.014) and knee (p< 0.001) patients. Subgroup analysis of total knee arthroplasty revealed a significant difference in haemoglobin drop between surgeons who released the tourniquet prior to closure compared to release at the end of the case (p=0.005). In addition, there were significant monthly differences that corresponded with the turnover of house staff (p=0.039). Overall, no statistically significant increase in allogeneic transfusion rates was observed between years, months, and individual surgeons.

The use of dalteparin was found to be associated with a significantly increased haemoglobin drop in primary total joint replacement when compared to warfarin. However, the use of dalteparin was not associated with an increase in allogeneic transfusions at our center. The results also suggest that there may be an advantage to releasing the tourniquet and achieving hemostasis prior to closure in knee arthroplasty. Finally, the results emphasise the importance of educating new house staff on methods to reduce intra-operative blood loss and transfusion rates.

The purpose of this study was to establish a model to predict the future need for total hip and knee replacement surgery over the next ten years.

Analysis based on queuing theory and Ontario data (Ontario Joint Replacement Registry) considered such factors as changing demographics, specific wait time objectives and changing indicators to predict the future need for THR and TKR up to 2015.

26 725 Ontarians were waiting for THR and TKR surgery on any given day in 2004–05. Each month, the number of new decisions for surgery exceeded the actual number of surgeries by over 20%, adding another five hundred patients to the wait list. We predict that the population > fifty-five years of age will increase by 3.4% annually and that the willingness of patients to consider TJR surgery will increase by 8.7%/year To reduce wait times and establish a steady state of waiting (less than 6 months wait), more than 50 000 surgeries per year must be provided within five years and 70 000 total joint replacements per year by 2014–15 as compared to the 31 448 performed annually at this time. Providing this volume of surgeries means that the number of surgeons will have to double within five to seven years.

The results of this queuing theory analysis predict a substantial need for markedly increased THR and TKR volumes and orthopaedic manpower over the next decade.

Background: Post-operative analgesia using parenteral opioids or epidural analgesia can be associated with troublesome side effects.

Locally administered pre-emptive analgesia is effective, reduces central hyper sensitisation and avoids systemic drug related side-effects and may be of benefit in total knee replacement.

Materials and Methods: 64 patients undergoing total knee replacement were randomised to receive a periarticular intra-operative injection containing ropivacaine, ketorolac, epimorphine and epinephrine or nothing.

All patients received patient controlled analgesia (PCA) for 24 hours post surgery, followed by standard analgesia. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain scores during activity and at rest and patient satisfaction scores were recorded pre and post operatively and at 6 week follow up. PCA consumption and overall analgesic requirement were measured.

Results: PCA use at 6,12 and over 24 hours post surgery was significantly less in patients receiving the injection (P< 0.01, P=0.016, P< 0.01). Patient satisfaction in PACU and 4 hrs post operation was greater (P=0.016, P=0.013). VAS for pain during activity in PACU and at 4 hrs were significantly less (P= 0.04, P=0.007) in the injected group. The average ROM at 6 weeks was no different. Overall hospital stay and the incidence of wound complications was not different between the two groups.

Conclusion: Peri-articular intra-operative multimodal analgesia significantly reduces post-operative PCA requirement. Patient satisfaction was greater in the injection group.

Femoral stem fracture occurred in five (2%) of 283 revision hip arthroplasties when extensively coated, distal fixation femoral implants were used. Common features were complex revisions, high body mass index, poor proximal support, smaller stems (< 13.5 mm) and use of an extended trochanteric osteotomy. Use of strut allografts can reduce femoral stem stresses.

The purpose of this study was to analyze the surgical factors associated with fracture of cementless distal fixation revision femoral stems and supplement this analysis with a finite element analysis.

Data from our institutional joint replacement database identified five (2%) fractured femoral stems (three Solution, two Echelon) in a cohort of two hundred and eighty-three cementless distal fixation femoral stems (one hundred and eighty-two Solution, one hundred and one Echelon) followed over two years. Patient, surgical and implant factors were compared between the fractured and not fractured stems. Finite element analysis was performed on two fractured stem cases to better understand the fracture mechanism.

Common clinical features of the five fractured stems were complex revisions, high patient body mass index, poor proximal bone support, smaller stems (< 13.5 mm) and use of an extended trochanteric osteotomy (ETO) (3/5). Fatigue failure was the mode failure in all cases.

Finite element analysis confirmed that the location of highest stem stress was near the location of the stem fracture and that use of a strut graft over an extended trochanteric osteotomy in patients lacking proximal femoral cortical support decreased the stem stresses by 48%.

Use of cementless distal fixation revision femoral stems is accompanied by a 2% risk of stem fracture in the face of proximal femoral support of the stem and/or use of a stem with a diameter less than 13.5 mm. When an extended trochanteric osteotomy is used, the stem fracture rate increased to 4%. Use of a strut allograft in conjunction with the ETO can reduce stem stresses by 48% and the risk of stem fracture.

Funding: Research support from J& J DePuy and Smith & Nephew

Background: Reduced implant survivorship due to aseptic loosening has prompted research into alternative bearing materials. Simulator testing is useful, but clinical studies are the gold standard to evaluate the wear characteristics of new bearing materials. Net compression molded polyethylene has clinically reported improved wear characteristics over traditionally used RAM extruded UHMWPE 1,4,17,22. Machining of the compression molded acetabular component however may be detrimental to its wear properties 29. We report a 23–29% increase in 2D and 3D linear and volumetric wear in a cohort of patients in which machined compression molded acetabular components were used.

Methods: Ninety-two patients matched for gender, body mass index, primary pathology, Charnley grade, and length of follow up underwent uncemented total hip replacement using an identical acetabular and femoral implant. Group 1 (52 patients) had a RAM extruded polyethylene liner (GUR 4150 HP) and Group 2 (40 patients) had a machined compression molded polyethylene liner (Montell H 1900). UHMWPE sterilisation regimes were identical. Antero-posterior and lateral radiographs were analysed for acetabular wear using the Martell technique at a minimum follow up of five years and a maximum mean follow up of 87.4 months for group 1 (SD=8.7) and 84.9 months for group 2 (SD 7.7).

Results: Both 2D and 3D linear and volumetric wear rates in patients with a RAM extruded polyethylene acetabular component were 23–29% less compared to patients that received a machined compression molded acetabular liner. There was a statistical difference in age between to the two groups (P=0.007). Looking at acetabular wear in patients over 55 years, machined compression poly was still 16–31 % worse then RAM extruded polyethylene although statistical difference could not be reached for 3D linear and volumetric wear. The incidence of acetabular osteolysis on review of radiographs at maximum follow up was similar in both groups (group 1 =16.3% versus group 2 =15%).

Conclusions: Despite favourable reports of improved wear characteristics of net compression molded UHMWPE, this study shows a 23– 29% increase in 2D and 3D linear and volumetric wear in machined compression molded acetabular components. It appears that machining of compression molded polyethylene bar stock, to obtain the final component, is detrimental to the wear properties of the acetabular liner.

We identified five (2.3%) fractures of the stem in a series of 219 revision procedures using a cementless, cylindrical, extensively porous-coated, distally-fixed femoral stem. Factors relating to the patients, the implant and the operations were compared with those with intact stems. Finite-element analysis was performed on two of the fractured implants.

Factors associated with fracture of the stem were poor proximal bone support (type III–type IV; p = 0.001), a body mass index > 30; (p = 0.014), a smaller diameter of stem (< 13.5 mm; p = 0.007) and the use of an extended trochanteric osteotomy (ETO 4/5: p = 0.028). Finite-element analysis showed that the highest stresses on the stem occurred adjacent to the site of the fracture. The use of a strut graft wired over an extended trochanteric osteotomy in patients lacking proximal femoral cortical support decreased the stresses on the stem by 48%.

We recommend the use of a strut allograft in conjunction with an extended trochanteric osteotomy in patients with poor proximal femoral bone stock.

We present the histological findings of an extensor mechanism allograft which was used in a total knee arthroplasty two years after implantation. Analysis of the graft was undertaken at four distinct anatomical levels and it was found to be incorporated into host tissue at each level. A wedge of fibrinoid necrosis, probably related to impingement of the graft on the tibial polyethylene insert, was seen. Impingement may play a role in the injury and necrosis of an allograft and may be one mode of failure in an extensor mechanism allograft.

We report the five- to-ten year results of Anderson Orthopaedic Research Institute type-2 bone defects treated with modular metal augments in revision knee surgery.

A total of 102 revision knee arthroplasties in patients with type-2 defects treated with augments and stems were prospectively studied. Seven patients (seven knees) had incomplete follow-up and 15 patients (16 knees) died with the arthroplasty in situ. The mean follow-up of the 79 remaining knees was 7 ± 2 years (5 to 11). The presence of non-progressive radiolucent lines around the augment in 14% of knees was not associated with poorer knee scores, the range of movement, survival of the component or the type of insert which was used (p > 0.05). The survival of the components was 92 ± 0.03% at 11 years (95% CI, 10.3 to 11.2).

We recommend the use of modular augmentation devices to treat type-2 defects in revision knee surgery.

We report on five-ten year results of AORI type two bone defects treated with modular augments in revision knee surgery.

102 revision knee arthroplasties with type two defects were treated with augments & stems and minimum five-year follow-up were prospectively studied.

15 patients (16 knees) died with retention of their prosthesis, 7 knees had incomplete follow-up. There were 79 remaining knees with complete follow-up of 7+−2 years (range: 5 – 11). The presence of non-progressive radiolucent lines around the augment in 20% of knees was not associated with poorer knee scores, range of motion, component survival or type of insert used (p> 0.05). Kaplan-Meier survival of the components was 92+− 0.03% at 11 years (95%CI:10.3–11.2)

We support the use of modular augmentation devices to treat type 2 defects in revision knee surgery and conclude that theoretical concerns of fretting and loosening based on 5 – 10 year clinical data are unfounded.