Up to 20% of patients can remain dissatisfied following TKR. A proportion of TKRs will need early revision with aseptic loosening the most common. The ATTUNE TKR was introduced in 2011 as successor to its predicate design The PFC Sigma (DePuy Synthes, Warsaw, In). However, following reports of early failures of the tibial component there have been ongoing concerns of increased loosening rates with the ATTUNE TKR. In 2017 a redesigned tibial baseplate (S+) was introduced, which included cement pockets and an increased surface roughness to improve cement bonding. Given the concerns of early tibial loosening with the ATTUNE knee system, this study aimed to compare revision rates and those specific to aseptic loosening of the ATTUNE implant in comparison to an established predicate as well as other implant designs used in a high-volume arthroplasty centre. The Attune TKR was introduced to our unit in December 2011. Prior to this we routinely used a predicate design with an excellent long-term track record (PFC Sigma) which remains in use. In addition, other designs were available and used as per surgeon preference. Using a prospectively maintained database, we identified 10,202 patients who underwent primary cemented TKR at our institution between 01/04/2003–31/03/2022 with a minimum of 1 year follow-up (Mean 8.4years, range 1–20years): 1) 2406 with ATTUNE TKR (of which 557 were S+) 2) 4652 with PFC TKR 3) 3154 with other cemented designs. All implants were cemented using high viscosity cement. The primary outcome measures were all-cause revision, revision for aseptic loosening, and revision for tibial loosening. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox regression models were used to compare the primary outcomes between groups. Matched cohorts were selected from the ATTUNE subsets (original and S+) and PFC groups using the nearest neighbor method for radiographic analysis. Radiographs were assessed to compare the presence of radiolucent lines in the Attune S+, standard Attune, and PFC implants.Abstract
Objective
Methods
Total hip replacement (THR) is one of the most successful and cost-effective interventions in orthopaedic surgery. Dislocation is a debilitating complication of THR and managing an unstable THR constitutes a significant clinical challenge. Stability in THR is multifactorial and is influenced by surgical, patient and implant related factors. It is established that larger diameter femoral heads have a wider impingement-free range of movement and an increase in jump distance, both of which are relevant in reducing the risk of dislocation. However, they can generate higher frictional torque which has led to concerns related to increased wear and loosening. Furthermore, the potential for taper corrosion or trunnionosis is also a potential concern with larger femoral heads, particularly those made from cobalt-chrome. These concerns have meant there is hesitancy among surgeons to use larger sized heads. This study presents the comparison of clinical outcomes for different head sizes (28mm, 32mm and 36mm) in primary THR for 10,104 hips in a single centre. A retrospective study of all consecutive patients who underwent primary THR at our institution between 1st April 2003 and 31st Dec 2019 was undertaken. Institutional approval for this study was obtained. Demographic and surgical data were collected. The primary outcome measures were all-cause revision, revision for dislocation, and all-cause revision excluding dislocation. Continuous descriptive statistics used means, median values, ranges, and 95% confidence intervals where appropriate. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were used to estimate time to revision. Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was used to compare revision rates between the femoral head size groups. Adjustments were made for age at surgery, gender, primary diagnosis, ASA score, articulation type, and fixation method.Abstract
Objectives
Methods
Revision total knee arthroplasty (RTKA) is a complex procedure with higher rates of re-revision, complications and mortality compared to primary TKA. We report the effects of the establishment of a Revision Arthroplasty Network (The East Midlands Specialist Orthopaedic Network; EMSON). The Revision Arthroplasty Network was established in January 2015 and covered the Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire areas of England. This comprises a collaborative weekly multidisciplinary meeting where upcoming RTKA procedures are discussed, and a plan agreed. Using the Hospital Episode Statistics database, RTKA procedures carried out between 2011 and 2018 from the five EMSON hospitals were compared to all other hospitals in England. Age, sex, and Hospital Frailty Risk scores were used as covariates. The primary outcome was re-revision surgery within 1 year of the index revision. Secondary outcomes were re-revision surgery within two years, any complication within one and two years and median length of stay.Abstract
Introduction
Methodology
Sound management decisions are critical to outcomes in revision arthroplasty. Aiming to improve outcomes, revision networks facilitate speciality trained, high volume surgeons, share experience and best practice, contributing to decision making within and away from their base hospital. We have reported the early clinical experience of East Midlands Specialist Orthopaedic Network (EMSON). In this paper we report beneficial clinical effects, both demonstrable and unquantifiable supporting the process. Using the UK HES database of revisions, performed before and after EMSON was established, (April 2011 – March 2018), data from EMSON hospitals were compared to all other hospitals in the same time-period. Primary outcome was re-revision surgery within 1 year. Secondary outcomes were re-revision, complications within first two years and median LOS. 57,621 RTHA and 33,828 RTKA procedures were involved with around 1,485 (2.6%) and 1,028 (3.0%) respectively performed within EMSON. Re-revision THA rates, within 1 year, in EMSON were 7.3% and 6.0% with re-revision knee rates 11.6% and 7.4%, pre- and post-intervention. Re-revision rates in the rest England in the same periods were 7.4% to 6.8% for hips and 11.7% to 9.7% for knees. This constituted a significant improvement in 1-year re-revision rates for EMSON knees. (β = −0.072 (−0.133 to −0.01), p = 0.024). The reduction in hip re-revision did not reach statistical significance. Secondary outcomes showed a significant improvement for 1 and 2-year RTHA complication rates. Re-revision rates for RTKA and complication rates for RTHA improved significantly after the introduction of EMSON. Other outcomes studied also improved to a greater extent in the network hospitals. While anecdotal experience with networks is positive, the challenge in collating data to prove clinic benefit should not be underestimated. Beyond the formal process, additional communication, interaction, and support has immeasurable benefit in both elective and emergency scenarios.
Hip and knee revisions continue to increase in number and complexity. With an understanding that revisions have a high re-revision rate, the importance of correct decisions made at the index procedure, is paramount for patients and surrounding health care economy. Since January 2015, East Midlands Specialist Orthopaedic Network, (set up on a ‘hub-and-spoke’ model), has allowed all revisions performed within our region, (5 hospitals with a 4 million population), to be discussed at a weekly ‘web’ conference. Integrated radiology allows clinical information to be reviewed remotely at each hospital. Chaired by specialist revision surgeons, with other surgeons, a microbiologist and radiology, vascular, plastics opinions available as required, a formal management plan is ‘signed off’ by the chair and returned to referring institution. We present prospective data of Network activities. To January 2018, 1007 cases have been referred by 18 consultants from 5 hospitals. A change in proposed plan was seen in 48% cases. (40% involved technique and exposure advice; 18% involved surgical inventory; 22% further investigation; 11% microbiological input; 9% other miscellaneous advice) Few (5%) patients were transferred directly. We also identified 20% increase in outpatient referrals to the ‘hub’. The network is an excellent tool for discussing complex cases, supporting surgeons in smaller units. A significant number of alterations in plan are made with a few patients transferred directly. We feel the network can only enhance care and are working now to identify exactly how it has affected clinical outcomes. We encourage others to adopt this approach.
Infection following total hip or knee arthroplasty is a serious complication. We noted an increase in post-operative infection in cases carried out in a temporary operating theatre. We therefore compared those cases performed in standard and temporary operating theatres and examined the deep periprosthetic infection rates. A total of 1233 primary hip and knee arthroplasties were performed between August 2012 and June 2013. 44% were performed in temporary theatres. The two groups were matched for age, sex, BMI and ASA grade. The deep infection rate for standard operating theatres was 0/684 (0%); for temporary theatres it was 8/539 (1.5%); p=0.001. Use of a temporary operating theatre for primary hip and knee arthroplasty was associated with an unacceptable increase in deep infection. We do not advocate the use of these theatres for primary joint arthroplasty.
Between 2005 and 2010, the number of revision hip arthroplasties rose by 49.1%, and revision knee arthroplasties by 92.1%. This number is predicted to rise by 31% and 332% respectively by 2030. In March 2014, NHS England invited bids to run a pilot revision network. Nottingham Elective Orthopaedic Service (NEOS) was successful and the East Midlands Specialist Orthopaedic Network (EMSON) runs on a ‘hub-and-spoke’ model. All patients within the EMSON area requiring revision arthroplasty are discussed at a weekly meeting. The meeting is chaired by a revision hip and knee surgeon and attended by arthroplasty surgeons and an orthopaedic microbiologist. Other specialties are available as required. EMSON discussions and a proposed management plan are recorded, signed by the Chair and returned as a permanent record in the patient's notes.Introduction
Patients/Materials & Methods
Dislocation is a major complication following total hip arthroplasty (THA). Aetiology is multi-factorial, but increasing femoral head size may result in lower dislocation rates. The latest England and Wales National Joint Registry (NJR) annual report has highlighted a statistically significant increase in the use of femoral heads of size 36mm+ from 5% in 2005 to 26% in 2009, together with an increase in the use of the posterior approach. The aim of this study was to determine whether national dislocation rates have fallen over the same period. Hospital episode statistics (HES) data for England was analysed so as to determine trends in national rates of 3-, 6-, 12- and 18-month dislocation rates following primary THA performed between 2005 and 2009 (247,546 THAs). 18-month revision rates were also examined.Background
Methods
Medical complications and death are rare events following elective orthopaedic surgery. Diagnostic and operative codes are routinely collected on every patient admitted to English NHS hospitals. This is the first study investigating rates of these events following total joint replacement (TJR) on a national scale. All patients (585177 patients) who underwent TJR (hip arthroplasty [THR], knee arthroplasty [TKR], or hip resurfacing) between 2005 and 2010 were identified. Patients were subdivided based on Charlson co-morbidity score. Data was extracted on 30-day complication rates for myocardial infarction (MI), cerebrovascular event (CVA), chest infection (LRTI), renal failure (RF), pulmonary embolus (PE) and inpatient 90-day mortality (MR).Background
Methods
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Effectiveness recommends both low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) and Rivaroxaban for venous thromboembolic (VTE) prophylaxis following lower limb arthroplasty. Despite evidence in the literature that suggests Rivaroxaban reduces VTE events, there are emerging concerns from the orthopaedic community regarding an increase in wound complications following its use. Through the orthopaedic clinical directors forum, Trusts replacing LMWH with Rivaroxaban for lower limb arthroplasty thromboprophylaxis during 2009 were identified. Prospectively collected Hospital episode statistics (HES) data was then analysed for these units so as to determine rates of 90-day symptomatic deep venous thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), major bleed (cerebrovascular accident or gastrointestinal haemorrhage), all-cause mortality, and 30-day wound infection and readmission rates before and after the change to Rivaroxaban. 2752 patients prescribed Rivaroxaban following TKR or THR were compared to 10358 patients prescribed LMWH. Data was analysed using odds ratios (OR).Background
Methods
A recent Cochrane review has shown that total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) seems to offer an advantage in terms of shoulder function over hemiarthroplasty, with no other obvious clinical benefits. This is the first study to compare complication rates on a national scale. All patients (9804 patients) who underwent either TSA or shoulder hemiarthroplasty as a planned procedure between 2005 and 2008 in the English NHS were identified using the hospital episodes statistic database. Data was extracted on 30-day rates of readmission, wound complications, reoperation and medical complications (myocardial infarction (MI) and chest infection (LRTI)), and inpatient 90-day DVT, PE and mortality rates (MR). Revision rate at 18 months was analysed for the whole cohort and, for a subset of 939 patients, 5-year revision rate. Odds ratio (OR) was used to compare groups.Background
Methods
In 2011 20% of intracapsular fractured neck of femurs were treated with an uncemented hemiarthroplasty in the English NHS. National guidelines recommend cemented implants, based on evidence of less pain, better mobility and lower costs. We aimed to compare complications following cemented and uncemented hemiarthroplasty using the national hospital episode statistics (HES) database in England. Dislocation, revision, return to theatre and medical complications were extracted for all patients with NOF fracture who underwent either cemented or uncemented hemiarthroplasty between January 2005 and December 2008. To make a ‘like for like’ comparison all 30424 patients with an uncemented impant were matched to 30424 cemented implants (from a total of 42838) in terms of age, sex and Charlson co-morbidity score.Background
Methods
Medical complications and death are rare events following elective orthopaedic surgery. Diagnostic and operative codes are routinely collected on every patient admitted to hospital in the English NHS (hospital episode statistics, HES). This is the first study investigating rates of these events following total joint replacement (TJR) on a national scale in the NHS. All patients (585177 patients) who underwent TJR (hip arthroplasty [THR], knee arthroplasty [TKR], or hip resurfacing) between January 2005 and February 2010 in the English NHS were identified. Patients were subdivided based on Charlson co-morbidity score. HES data in the form of OPCS and ICD-10 codes were used to establish 30-day medical complication rates from myocardial infarction (MI), cerebrovascular event (CVA), chest infection (LRTI), renal failure (RF), pulmonary embolus (PE) and inpatient 90-day mortality (MR).Background
Methods
Unlike the NJR, no surgeon driven national database currently exists for ligament surgery in the UK and therefore information on outcome and adverse event is limited to case series. Prospectively collected Hospital episode statistics (HES) data for England was analysed so as to determine national rates of 90-day symptomatic deep venous thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) rate, significant wound infection and 30-day readmission rates with cause following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. This diagnostic and operative codes information is routinely collected on every patient admitted to hospital in England NHS.Introduction
Methods
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Effectiveness recommends both low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) and Rivaroxaban for venous thromboembolic (VTE) prophylaxis following lower limb arthroplasty. Despite evidence in the literature that suggests Rivaroxaban reduces VTE events, there are emerging concerns from the orthopaedic community regarding an increase in wound complications following its use. Through the orthopaedic clinical directors forum, Trusts replacing LMWH with Rivaroxaban for lower limb arthroplasty thromboprophylaxis during 2009 were identified. Prospectively collected Hospital episode statistics (HES) data was then analysed for these units so as to determine rates of 90-day symptomatic deep venous thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE), major bleed (cerebrovascular accident or gastrointestinal haemorrhage), all-cause mortality, and 30-day wound infection and readmission rates before and after the change to Rivaroxaban. 2752 patients prescribed Rivaroxaban following TKR or THR were compared to 10358 patients prescribed LMWH. Data was analysed using odds ratios (OR).Introduction
Methods
We report a large study of 331 patients at two years post operation who were prospectively randomised to receive either a rotating platform or a fixed bearing knee replacement of an otherwise identical design. The mobile bearing total knee replacement was developed as there are theoretical benefits in that it may allow a better range of motion, better patella tracking and lower wear rates. This study was designed to see if these potential advantages are borne out in practice when using a cruciate retaining design.Summary
Introduction
Total Knee Replacement (TKR) is technically demanding, time consuming and has higher complication rates in super obese (BMI>45) patients. Bariatric surgery can be considered for such patients prior to TKR although its effect on complications is unknown. All patients who underwent bariatric surgery and a TKR in the NHS in England between 2005 and 2009 were included. Hospital episode statistics data in the form of OPCS, ICD10 codes were used to establish 90-day DVT, PE and mortality rates (inpatient and outpatient). In addition, readmission to orthopaedics, joint revision and ‘return to theatre for infection’ rates were also established. Code strings for each patient were examined in detail to ensure the correct gastric procedures were selected. Fifty-three patients underwent bariatric surgery then TKR (44-1274 days) (group 1). Thirty-one patients underwent TKR then bariatric surgery (33-1398 days) (group 2).Background
Methods
Previous studies comparing cruciate retaining (CR) and cruciate sacrificing - posterior stabilised (PS) TKRs have failed to demonstrate a difference in outcomes based on numbers of patients recruited. This large study compares clinical outcomes in groups having PS and CR TKR and reports the results at 1 and 2 years post-operatively. A total of 683 patients undergoing TKR were consecutively enrolled in a prospective multi-centre study with 2 arms. In the first arm patients receiving a PS component were randomised to receive either a mobile bearing (176 patients) or fixed bearing (176 patients) implant. In the second arm, patients receiving a CR component were randomised to receive either a mobile bearing (161 patients) or fixed bearing (170 patients) implant. All patients were assessed preoperatively and at one and two years postoperatively using standard tools (Oxford, AKSS, Patellar Score) by independent nurse specialists. The data from the 2 arms of the trial were then analysed to compare differences between PS and CR implants.Introduction
Methods
The aim of the study was to assess the impact of a self aligning unidirectional mobile tibial bearing and the use of a patella button on lateral patella release rates within a knee system using a common femoral component for both the fixed and mobile variants. A total of 347 patients undergoing TKR were included in the study and randomly allocated to receive either a Mobile Bearing (171 knees) or a Fixed Bearing (176 knees) PS PFC Sigma TKR. Further sub-randomisation into patella resurfacing or retention was performed for both designs. The need for lateral patella release was assessed during surgery using the ‘no thumbs’ technique. The lateral release rate was similar for fixed bearing (9.65%) and mobile bearing (9.94%) implants (p=0.963). Patella resurfacing resulted in lower lateral release rates when compared to patella retention (5.8% vs 13.8%; p=0.0131). This difference was most marked in the mobile bearing group where the lateral release rate was 16.3% with patella retention compared to 3.5% with patella resurfacing (p=0.005).Aim
Methods and results
