Effects of anaesthesia and analgesia on long-term outcome after total knee replacement: A prospective, observational, multicentre study

Randomised controlled study comparing general and spinal anaesthesia with and without a tourniquet on the outcomes of total knee arthroplasty: study protocol

INTRODUCTION

Total knee arthroplasty is a highly effective treatment for end-stage knee osteoarthritis, and it is usually performed under spinal or general anaesthesia with or without a surgical tourniquet. Some debate about the preferred mode of anaesthesia regarding patient outcomes remains. The aim of this study, which compares general and spinal anaesthesia with and without a tourniquet on the outcomes of total knee arthroplasty, is to determine the optimal type of anaesthesia regimen and assess the effect of a tourniquet on the patient's recovery following total knee arthroplasty.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This study is a randomised, controlled, parallel-group, four-arm study comparing spinal and general anaesthesia with and without a tourniquet in 400 patients undergoing fast-track total knee arthroplasty, with a 12-month follow-up. The primary outcome is cumulative intravenous oxycodone consumption by patient-controlled analgesia during the first 24 postoperative hours. Secondary outcomes include postoperative nausea and vomiting, the length of hospital stay, the duration of the surgery, blood loss, demand for surgical unit resources, complications, readmissions, postoperative knee function, range of motion, health-related quality of life, prolonged pain and mortality.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study's protocol is in accordance with the declaration of Helsinki. The results of this study will be disseminated in international peer-reviewed journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03364088; Pre-results.

Perioperative multiple low-dose Dexamethasones improves postoperative clinical outcomes after Total knee arthroplasty

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of multiple low-dose dexamethasones in primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

One hundred fifty patients were equally randomized into 3 groups: Group A (n = 50) received 2 doses of normal saline only; Group B (n = 50) received with 1 dose of intravenous dexamethasone and 1 dose of normal saline; Group C (n = 50) received with 2 doses of intravenous dexamethasone. The clinical outcomes and complications were assessed.

Results

The CRP and IL-6 were significantly lower in Group C and B than Group A at 24, 48, and 72 h postoperatively (P < 0.001 for all). The intensity of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in Group C was lower than Group A at 24 (P < 0.001, P = 0.002), 48 (P = 0.005, P = 0.041) and 72 h (P = 0.017, P = 0.031) postoperatively and Group B at 24 h (P = 0.027, P = 0.019) postoperatively. Pain were significantly less in Group C than Group A at 24 (P < 0.001), 48 h (P = 0.037) postoperatively and Group B 24 h (P = 0.030) postoperatively. Patients in Group C had better range of motion (ROM) and satisfaction than Group A (P < 0.001, P = 0.002) and B (P = 0.001, P = 0.043). No differences were found in complications.

Conclusions

The administration of 10 mg dexamethasone 1 h before the surgery, and repeated at 6 h postoperatively can significantly reduce the level of postoperative CRP and IL-6 and the incidence of PONV, relieve pain, achieve an additional analgesic effect, and improve the early ROM compared with the other two groups in TKA.

Level of Evidence

Therapeutic Level I.

Trial registration

The Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR1800017036). Registered on July 9, 2018.

Multiple Doses of Perioperative Dexamethasone Further Improve Clinical Outcomes After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective, Randomized, Controlled Study

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the effect and safety of multiple doses of preoperative dexamethasone on pain and recovery after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS

Altogether, 182 patients undergoing TKA received 3 intravenous injections of normal saline (group A), 1 injection of high-dose dexamethasone (20 mg) and 2 injections of normal saline (group B), or 1 injection of high-dose dexamethasone and 2 injections of low-dose (10 mg) dexamethasone (group C).

RESULTS

Visual analog scale was lower in group C than in group A or B and was different between groups A and B on postoperative days 1, 2, and 3 (all P < .05). Fewer group C patients required analgesic rescue and had lower total analgesic than those in group A or B, with the same difference between groups A and B (all P < .05). C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 levels were lower in groups B and C than in group A at 24, 48, and 72 hours postoperatively. C-reactive protein at 72 hours and interleukin-6 at 48 and 72 hours were lower in group C than in group B (all P < .05). Incidences of postoperative nausea and vomiting, number of patients requiring antiemetic rescue, and overall consumption of metoclopramide were lower in groups B and C than in group A (all P < .05). No surgical-site infections or gastrointestinal hemorrhages were detected in any group.

CONCLUSION

Multiple dexamethasone doses further reduced postoperative pain, decreased consumption of analgesic drugs, and provided more powered inflammation control. These findings call for further studies to further evaluate its safety.

Does ethnicity and education influence preoperative disability and expectations in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty?

AIM

To investigate whether minority ethnicity and the duration of education influence preoperative disability and expectations in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty.

METHODS

We prospectively included 829 patients undergoing primary unilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) from April 2013 to December 2014 at a single centre. Patients filled in pre-operative questionnaires with information regarding place of birth, duration of education, expectations for outcome of surgery and baseline characteristics. Patients were stratified based on ethnicity. Majority ethnicity was defined as born in the study country and minority ethnicity was defined as born in any other country. Similarly, patients were stratified based on duration of education in groups defined as < 9 years, 9-12 years and > 12 years, respectively.

RESULTS

We found that 92.2% of patients were of majority ethnicity. We found that 24.5%, 44.8% and 30.8% of patients had an education of < 9 years, 9-12 years and > 12 years, respectively. The mean preoperative (pre-OP) oxford knee score (OKS) in the total population was 23.6. Patients of minority ethnicity had lower mean pre-OP OKS (18.6 vs 23.9, P < 0.001), higher pain levels (VAS 73.0 vs 58.7, P < 0.001), expected higher levels of post-OP pain (VAS 14.1 vs 6.1, P = 0.02) and of overall symptoms (VAS 16.6 vs 6.4, P = 0.006). Patients with > 12 years education had lower mean pre-OP OKS (21.5 vs 23.8 and 24.6, P < 0.001) and higher pre-OP VAS pain (65.4 vs 59.2 and 56.4, P < 0.001) compared to groups with shorter education. One year post-operative (post-OP) patients of minority ethnicity had lower mean OKS, higher pain and lower QoL. One year post-OP patients with > 12 years education reported higher pain compared to patients with shorter educations. However, the response-rate was low (44.6%), and therefore post-OP results were not considered to be significant.

CONCLUSION

Minority ethnicity and the duration of education influence preoperative disability and expectation in patients undergoing TKA. This should be taken into account when patients are advised pre-operatively.

Effects of anaesthesia and analgesia on long-term outcome after total knee replacement: A prospective, observational, multicentre study

BACKGROUND

Perioperative regional anaesthesia may protect from persistent postsurgical pain (PPSP) and improve outcome after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

OBJECTIVES

Aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of regional anaesthesia on PPSP and long-term functional outcome after TKA.

DESIGN

A web-based prospective observational registry.

SETTING

Five Italian Private and University Hospitals from 2012 to 2015.

PATIENTS

Undergoing primary unilateral TKA, aged more than 18 years, informed consent, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classes 1 to 3, no previous knee surgery.

INTERVENTION(S)

Personal data (age, sex, BMI and ASA class), preoperative pain assessed by numerical rating scale (NRS) score, and risk factors for PPSP were registered preoperatively. Data on anaesthetic and analgesic techniques were collected. Postoperative pain (NRS), analgesic consumption, major complications and patient satisfaction were registered up to the time of discharge. PPSP was assessed by a blinded investigator during a phone call after 1, 3 and 6 months, together with patient satisfaction, quality of life (QOL) and walking ability.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Experience of PPSP according to the type of peri-operative analgesia.

RESULTS

Five hundred sixty-three patients completed the follow-up. At 6 months, 21.6% of patients experienced PPSP, whereas autonomy was improved only in 56.3%; QOL was worsened or unchanged in 30.7% of patients and improved in 69.3%. Patients receiving continuous regional anaesthesia (epidural or peripheral nerve block) showed a lower NRS through the whole peri-operative period up to 1 month compared with both single shot peripheral nerve block and those who did not receive any type of regional anaesthesia. No difference was found between these latter two groups. Differences in PPSP at 3 or 6 months were not significantly affected by the type of anaesthesia or postoperative analgesia. A higher NRS score at 1 month, younger age, history of anxiety or depression, pro-inflammatory status, higher BMI and a lower ASA physical status were associated with a higher incidence of PPSP and worsened QOL at 6 months.

CONCLUSION

Continuous regional anaesthesia provides analgesic benefit for up to 1 month after surgery, but did not influence PPSP at 6 months. Better pain control at 1 month was associated with reduced PPSP. Patients with higher expectations from surgery, enhanced basal inflammation and a pessimistic outlook are more prone to develop PPSP.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT02147730.

Effects of anaesthesia and analgesia on long-term outcome after total knee replacement: A prospective, observational, multicentre study

BACKGROUND

Perioperative regional anaesthesia may protect from persistent postsurgical pain (PPSP) and improve outcome after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

OBJECTIVES

Aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of regional anaesthesia on PPSP and long-term functional outcome after TKA.

DESIGN

A web-based prospective observational registry.

SETTING

Five Italian Private and University Hospitals from 2012 to 2015.

PATIENTS

Undergoing primary unilateral TKA, aged more than 18 years, informed consent, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classes 1 to 3, no previous knee surgery.

INTERVENTION(S)

Personal data (age, sex, BMI and ASA class), preoperative pain assessed by numerical rating scale (NRS) score, and risk factors for PPSP were registered preoperatively. Data on anaesthetic and analgesic techniques were collected. Postoperative pain (NRS), analgesic consumption, major complications and patient satisfaction were registered up to the time of discharge. PPSP was assessed by a blinded investigator during a phone call after 1, 3 and 6 months, together with patient satisfaction, quality of life (QOL) and walking ability.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Experience of PPSP according to the type of peri-operative analgesia.

RESULTS

Five hundred sixty-three patients completed the follow-up. At 6 months, 21.6% of patients experienced PPSP, whereas autonomy was improved only in 56.3%; QOL was worsened or unchanged in 30.7% of patients and improved in 69.3%. Patients receiving continuous regional anaesthesia (epidural or peripheral nerve block) showed a lower NRS through the whole peri-operative period up to 1 month compared with both single shot peripheral nerve block and those who did not receive any type of regional anaesthesia. No difference was found between these latter two groups. Differences in PPSP at 3 or 6 months were not significantly affected by the type of anaesthesia or postoperative analgesia. A higher NRS score at 1 month, younger age, history of anxiety or depression, pro-inflammatory status, higher BMI and a lower ASA physical status were associated with a higher incidence of PPSP and worsened QOL at 6 months.

CONCLUSION

Continuous regional anaesthesia provides analgesic benefit for up to 1 month after surgery, but did not influence PPSP at 6 months. Better pain control at 1 month was associated with reduced PPSP. Patients with higher expectations from surgery, enhanced basal inflammation and a pessimistic outlook are more prone to develop PPSP.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT02147730

Time course of subacute pain after transoral robotic surgery (TORS) for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma versus traditional bilateral tonsillectomy in adults - a case-control study

OBJECTIVE

To examine pain after Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS) for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) versus traditional bilateral tonsillectomy in adults.

METHODS

Pain evolvement was assessed in a prospective case-control design of 16 consecutive patients treated with TORS for early stage OPSCC versus 12 patients, who underwent bilateral tonsillectomy on suspicion of malignant disease. The TORS group received an optimized analgesia regime of preoperative oral celecoxib and gabapentin, intra- and postoperative high-dose intravenous dexamethasone, and regular postoperative oral contalgin, gabapentin, celecoxib, paracetamol and rescue morphine. The tonsillectomy group received the departmental standard analgesia regime with low-dose preoperative oral dexamethasone, celecoxib and paracetamol. Postoperative regular analgesia consisted of oral NSAID and paracetamol with weak opioids prescribed as required. Pain intensity was recorded at rest and during swallowing twice a day.

RESULTS

The median pain intensity on postoperative day (POD) 1-4 was 2 in the TORS group versus 4.5 in the tonsillectomy group. From POD 5-10 median pain intensity was 3.5 and 4, respectively. The median length of stay was 5 days in the TORS group and less than 24 hours in the tonsillectomy group.

CONCLUSION

With an optimized analgesia regime TORS for OPSCC can be performed with postoperative pain levels comparable to bilateral tonsillectomy in adults.

[Research status of the enhanced recovery after surgery in the geriatric hip fractures]

OBJECTIVE

To summarize the latest developments in the enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) in the geriatric hip fractures and its perioperative therapy management.

METHODS

The recent original literature on the ERAS in the geriatric hip fractures were extensively reviewed, illustrating the concepts and properties of the ERAS in the geriatric hip fractures.

RESULTS

It has been considered to be associated with the decreased postoperative morbidity, reduced hospital length of stay, and cost savings to implement ERAS protocols, including multimodal analgesia, inflammation control, intravenous fluid therapy, early mobilization, psychological counseling, and so on, in the perioperative (emergency, preoperative, intraoperative, postoperative) management of the geriatric hip fractures. The application of ERAS in the geriatric hip fractures guarantees the health benefits of patients and saves medical expenses, which also provides basis and guidance for the further development and improvement of the entire process perioperative management in the geriatric hip fractures.

CONCLUSION

Significant progress has been made in the application of ERAS in the geriatric hip fractures. ERAS protocols should be a priority for perioperative therapy management in the geriatric hip fractures.

High-dose methylprednisolone in video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery lobectomy: a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

The optimal postoperative analgesic strategy after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery lobectomy remains undetermined. We hypothesized that high-dose preoperative methylprednisolone (MP) would improve analgesia compared to placebo.

METHODS

A total of 120 adult patients were randomized equally to 125 mg MP or placebo before the start of their elective video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery lobectomy. Group allocation was blinded to patients, investigators and caregivers, and all patients received standardized multimodal, opioid-sparing analgesia. Our primary outcome was area under the curve on a numeric rating scale from 0 to 10, for pain scores on the day of surgery and on postoperative days 1 and 2. Clinical follow-up was 2-3 weeks, and telephone follow-up was 12 weeks after surgery.

RESULTS

Ninety-six patients were included in the primary analysis. Methylprednisolone significantly decreased median pain scores on the day of surgery: at rest (numeric rating scale 1.6 vs 2.0, P = 0.019) and after mobilization to a sitting position (numeric rating scale 1.7 vs 2.5, P = 0.004) but not during arm abduction and coughing (P = 0.052 and P = 0.083, respectively). Nausea and fatigue were reduced on the day of surgery (P = 0.04 and 0.03), whereas no outcome was improved on postoperative Days 1 and 2. Methylprednisolone did not increase the risk of complications but increased blood glucose levels on the day of surgery (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

High-dose preoperative MP significantly reduced pain at rest and after mobilization to a sitting position on the day of surgery, without later analgesic effects. Nausea and fatigue were improved without side effects, except transient higher postoperative blood glucose levels.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

Registered at clinicaltrialsregister.eu [7 November 2012, EudraCT 2012-004451-37; https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/ctr-search/trial/2012-004451-37/DK].

Effect of pre-operative methylprednisolone on orthostatic hypotension during early mobilization after total hip arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Orthostatic hypotension (OH) and intolerance (OI) are common after total hip arthroplasty (THA) and may delay early mobilization. The pathology of OH and OI includes a dysregulated post-operative vasopressor response, by a hitherto unknown mechanism. We hypothesized that OI could be related to the inflammatory stress response which is inhibited by steroid administration. Consequently, this study evaluated the effect of a pre-operative high-dose methylprednisolone on OH and OI early after THA.

METHODS

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 59 patients undergoing elective unilateral THA with spinal anesthesia and a standardized multimodal analgesic regime. Patients were allocated (1 : 1) to pre-operative intravenous (IV) methylprednisolone (MP) 125 mg or isotonic saline (C). OH, OI and cardiovascular responses to sitting and standing were evaluated using a standardized mobilization protocol pre-operatively, 6, and 24 h after surgery. Systolic and diastolic arterial pressure and heart rate were measured non-invasively (Nexfin^® ). The systemic inflammation was monitored by the C-reactive protein (CRP) response.

RESULTS

At 6 h post-operatively, 11 (38%) versus 11 (37%) patients had OH in group MP and group C, respectively (RR 1.02 (0.60 to 1.75; P = 1.00)), whereas OI was present in 9 (31%) versus 13 (43%) patients (RR 0.76 (0.42 to 1.36; P = 0.42)), respectively. At 24 h post-operatively, the prevalence of OH and OI did not differ between groups, though CRP levels were significantly reduced in group MP (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Pre-operative administration of 125 mg methylprednisolone IV did not reduce OH or OI compared with placebo despite a reduced inflammatory response.

Lumbar Epidural Corticosteroid Injection Reduces Subacute Pain and Improves Knee Function in the First Six Weeks After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Double-Blinded Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND

Pain control immediately following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been a focus for orthopaedists. However, control of subacute pain, which may persist up to 3 months, is usually not optimized. The efficacy of epidural corticosteroids in reducing pain after surgery is documented, but data on their efficacy in controlling subacute pain after TKA are lacking. Our aim was to investigate the efficacy of an epidural corticosteroid in controlling pain in the first 3 months following TKA using a double-blinded randomized clinical trial.

METHODS

One hundred and eight patients with osteoarthritis of the knee who underwent TKA and received analgesic drugs through an epidural catheter for 48 hours were randomized to receive either 40 mg (1 mL) of triamcinolone acetonide plus 5 mL of 1% lidocaine, or 6 mL of 1% lidocaine alone before catheter removal. The outcomes of interest were pain level during motion and at rest, knee function, and range of motion, which were recorded up to 3 months after surgery. Multilevel regression models were used to estimate the differences between groups.

RESULTS

The corticosteroid + lidocaine group had a lower average level of pain during motion compared with the lidocaine-only group, as measured by a visual analog scale (VAS), from day 3 to 7 weeks postoperatively (p < 0.05). At 7 weeks, the mean difference was -7 points (95% confidence interval [CI], -12.8 to -1.0 points; p = 0.033). The corticosteroid + lidocaine group also had a better mean overall modified Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score at 6 weeks postoperatively (28 compared with 33 points; 95% CI, -8.6 to -0.6 points; p = 0.03). There was no difference between the groups in the level of pain at rest and knee range of motion during the 3-month period (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Lumbar epidural corticosteroid injection reduced pain during motion for 7 weeks and provided better knee function at 6 weeks postoperatively compared with lidocaine alone. There was no difference detected with respect to pain at rest and knee range of motion during the 3-month follow-up. Epidural corticosteroids could improve patient satisfaction during the early weeks of recovery after TKA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

WITHDRAWN: The efficacy and safety of intravenous glucocorticoids in total hip arthroplasty: A systematic review and meta-analysis

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Association of Multimodal Pain Management Strategies with Perioperative Outcomes and Resource Utilization

Background

Multimodal analgesia is increasingly considered routine practice in joint arthroplasties, but supportive large-scale data are scarce. The authors aimed to determine how the number and type of analgesic modes is associated with reduced opioid prescription, complications, and resource utilization.

Methods

Total hip/knee arthroplasties (N = 512,393 and N = 1,028,069, respectively) from the Premier Perspective database (2006 to 2016) were included. Analgesic modes considered were opioids, peripheral nerve blocks, acetaminophen, steroids, gabapentin/pregabalin, nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs, cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors, or ketamine. Groups were categorized into “opioids only” and 1, 2, or more than 2 additional modes. Multilevel models measured associations between multimodal analgesia and opioid prescription, cost/length of hospitalization, and opioid-related adverse effects. Odds ratios or percent change and 95% CIs are reported.

Results

Overall, 85.6% (N = 1,318,165) of patients received multimodal analgesia. In multivariable models, additions of analgesic modes were associated with stepwise positive effects: total hip arthroplasty patients receiving more than 2 modes (compared to “opioids only”) experienced 19% fewer respiratory (odds ratio, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.70 to 0.94; unadjusted 1.0% [N = 1,513] vs. 2.0% [N = 1,546]), 26% fewer gastrointestinal (odds ratio, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.65 to 0.84; unadjusted 1.5% [N = 2,234] vs. 2.5% [N = 1,984]) complications, up to a –18.5% decrease in opioid prescription (95% CI, –19.7% to –17.2%; 205 vs. 300 overall median oral morphine equivalents), and a –12.1% decrease (95% CI, –12.8% to –11.5%; 2 vs. 3 median days) in length of stay (all P &lt; 0.05). Total knee arthroplasty analyses showed similar patterns. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs and cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors seemed to be the most effective modalities used.

Conclusions

While the optimal multimodal regimen is still not known, the authors’ findings encourage the combined use of multiple modalities in perioperative analgesic protocols.

Intravenous glucocorticoid for pain control after spinal fusion: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

Postoperative pain was a common symptom after spinal surgery. This meta-analysis aimed to assess whether intravenous glucocorticoids has a beneficial role in reducing pain in patients following spinal fusion.

METHODS

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, and Google databases, from inception to March 2, 2018. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that comparing intravenous glucocorticoids with control treatment for spinal fusion were included. A meta-analysis was performed to generate pooled risk ratio (RR) and weighted mean difference with corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) for discontinuous outcomes (the occurrence of nausea and infection) and continuous outcomes (visual analog scale [VAS] at 12, 24, and 48 h; total morphine consumption; and the length of hospital stay), respectively.

RESULTS

Eight clinical trials involving 918 patients (glucocorticoid group = 449, control group = 469) were finally included in this meta-analysis. Compared with control, intravenous glucocorticoids had significantly reduced VAS at 12, 24, and 48 hours with statistically significance (P < .05). Intravenous glucocorticoids can decrease the occurrence of nausea (RR = 0.42, 95% CI 0.29-0.62, P = .000; I = 0.0%) and the length of hospital stay. No difference was noticed in the occurrence of infection between glucocorticoids intravenous and control (P > .05).

CONCLUSION

Existing evidence indicated that intravenous glucocorticoids have a beneficial role in decreasing early pain and the occurrence of nausea after spinal fusion surgery. In consideration of the limitation in current meta-analysis, more high-quality RCTs were needed to identify the optimal dose of glucocorticoids in spinal fusion patients.

Two doses of low-dose perioperative dexamethasone improve the clinical outcome after total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled study

To study the clinical effect and safety of two doses of low-dose perioperative dexamethasone on pain and recovery after total knee arthroplasty. Methods A total of 108 patients were included in this randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study. They received two doses of 10 mg IV dexamethasone (group Dexa) or IV isotonic saline (group Placebo). The CRP, IL-6 and pain levels, postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) incidence, nausea severity, postoperative fatigue, range of motion, length of stay, analgesic rescue and antiemetic rescue consumption, and complications were compared. Results The CRP and IL-6 levels in group Dexa were lower than in group Placebo at 24, 48, and 72 h postoperatively (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, and P < 0.001, respectively). In group Dexa, patients had less pain at 24 h postoperatively, at rest (P < 0.001) and during walking (P < 0.001); they also had a lower PONV incidence (P = 0.002) and a lower nausea VAS score (P = 0.008). Postoperative fatigue (P < 0.001) was relieved and the analgesic and antiemetic rescue consumption was reduced. Length of stay (n.s.) and range of motion (n.s.) were similar in both groups. No early surgical wound infection or gastrointestinal haemorrhage occurred in either group. Conclusions Administering two doses of low-dose perioperative dexamethasone for patients receiving total knee arthroplasty reduces postoperative CRP and IL-6 levels, provides additional analgesic effect, and reduces the PONV incidence and postoperative fatigue, without increasing the risk of early surgical wound infection and gastrointestinal haemorrhage. So two doses of low-dose perioperative dexamethasone are effective and safe for patients receiving TKA to decrease the inflammatory response, prevent PONV, relieve postoperative pain and fatigue, and enhance recovery. Level of evidence I.

Preoperative methylprednisolone increases plasma Pentraxin 3 early after total knee arthroplasty: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Preoperative glucocorticoid administration reduces the systemic inflammatory response. Pentraxin 3 (PTX3) is a novel inflammatory marker belonging to the humoral arm of innate immunity exerting a potentially protective host response. This study evaluated PTX3 and other complement marker changes after preoperative methylprednisolone (MP) early after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Seventy patients were randomized (1 : 1) to preoperative intravenous (i.v.) MP 125 mg (group MP) or isotonic saline i.v. (group C). The outcomes included change in plasma PTX3, mannose-binding lectin (MBL), ficolins (ficolin-1, -2 and -3), complement components (C4 and C3), terminal complement complex (TCC) and C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations. Blood samples were analysed at baseline and 2, 6, 24 and 48 h after surgery with complete sampling from 63 patients for analyses. MP resulted in an increase in circulating PTX3 compared to saline from baseline to 24 h postoperatively (P < 0·001), while MP reduced the systemic inflammatory response (CRP) 24 and 48 h postoperatively (P < 0·001). However, the small postoperative changes in MBL, ficolin-1, -2 and -3, C4, C3 and TCC concentrations did not differ between groups (P > 0·05). In conclusion, preoperative MP 125 mg increased circulating PTX3 and reduced the general inflammatory response (CRP) early after TKA, but did not affect other complement markers.

Perioperative adjuvant corticosteroids for postoperative analgesia in knee arthroplasty

Background and purpose - Immediate postoperative pain management offered in knee arthroplasty is suboptimal in up to one-third of patients resulting in high opiate consumption and delayed discharge. In this meta-analysis we investigate the analgesic effect and safety of perioperative adjuvant corticosteroids in knee arthroplasty. Methods - Databases Medline, Embase, and Central were searched for randomized studies comparing the analgesic effect of adjuvant perioperative corticosteroids in knee arthroplasty. Our primary outcome was pain score at 24 hours postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included pain at 12, 48, and 72 hours, opiate consumption, postoperative nausea and vomiting, infection, and discharge time. Systemic (intravenous) and local (intra-articular) corticosteroids were analyzed separately. Results - 14 randomized controlled trials (1,396 knees) were included. Mean corticosteroid dosages were predominantly 50-75mg oral prednisolone equivalents for both systemic and local routes. Systemic corticosteroids demonstrated statistically significant and clinically modest reductions in pain at 12 hours by -1.1 points (95%CI -2.2 to 0.02), 24 hours by -1.3 points (CI -2.3 to -0.26) and 48 hours by -0.4 points (CI -0.67 to -0.04). Local corticosteroids did not reduce pain. Opiate consumption, postoperative nausea and vomiting, infection, or time till discharge were similar between groups. Interpretation - Corticosteroids modestly reduce pain postoperatively at 12 and 24 hours when used systemically without any increase in associated risks for dosages between 50 and 75 mg oral prednisolone equivalents.

Preoperative intravenous glucocorticoids can decrease acute pain and postoperative nausea and vomiting after total hip arthroplasty: A PRISMA-compliant meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

A systematic review and meta-analysis of published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were performed to assess the efficacy and safety of preoperative intravenous glucocorticoids versus controls for the prevention of postoperative acute pain and postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) after primary total hip arthroplasty (THA).

METHODS

A computer literature search of electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and China Wanfang database, was conducted to identify the relevant RCTs comparing preoperative intravenous glucocorticoids versus placebos for reducing acute pain and PONV in THA patients. The primary outcomes included the use of the visual analog scale (VAS) with rest or mobilization at 6, 24, 48, and 72 hours and the occurrence of PONV. The secondary outcome was total morphine consumption. We calculated the risk ratio (RR) with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI) for dichotomous outcomes, and the weighted mean difference (WMD) with a 95% CI for continuous outcomes.

RESULTS

Pooled data from 7 RCTs (411 THAs) favored preoperative intravenous glucocorticoids against acute pain intensity at 4, 24, and 48 hours (P < .05). There was no significant difference between the VAS with rest or mobilization at 72 hours (P > .05). Subsequently, preoperative intravenous glucocorticoids provided a total morphine-sparing effect of 9.36 mg (WMD = -9.36, 95% CI = -12.33 to -6.38, P = .000). In addition, preoperative intravenous glucocorticoids were associated with a significant reduction of the occurrence of PONV (RR = 0.41, 95% CI = 0.30-0.57, P = .000).

CONCLUSION

Intravenous glucocorticoids can decrease early pain intensity and PONV after THA. However, the low number of studies and variation in dosing regimens limits the evidence for its use. Thus, more high-quality RCTs are still needed to identify the optimal drug and the safety of intravenous glucocorticoids.

Feasibility of outpatient total hip and knee arthroplasty in unselected patients

Background and purpose - The number of patients who are suitable for outpatient total hip and knee arthroplasty (THA and TKA) in an unselected patient population remains unknown. The purpose of this prospective 2-center study was to identify the number of patients suitable for outpatient THA and TKA in an unselected patient population, to investigate the proportion of patients who were discharged on the day of surgery (DOS), and to identify reasons for not being discharged on the DOS. Patients and methods - All consecutive, unselected patients who were referred to 2 participating centers and who were scheduled for primary THA and TKA were screened for eligibility for outpatient surgery with discharge to home on DOS. If patients did not fulfill the discharge criteria, the reasons preventing discharge were noted. Odds factors with relative risk intervals for not being discharged on DOS were identified while adjusting for age, sex, ASA score, BMI and distance to home. Results - Of the 557 patients who were referred to the participating surgeons during the study period, 54% were potentially eligible for outpatient surgery. Actual DOS discharge occurred in 13-15% of the 557 patients. Female sex and surgery late in the day increased the odds of not being discharged on the DOS. Interpretation - This study shows that even in unselected THA and TKA patients, same-day discharge is feasible in about 15% of patients. Future studies should evaluate safety aspects and economic benefits.

Preoperative methylprednisolone does not reduce loss of knee-extension strength after total knee arthroplastyA randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 61 patients

Background and purpose - Patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) face challenges related to postoperative reduction in knee-extension strength. We evaluated whether inhibition of the inflammatory response by a single preoperative dose of methylprednisolone (MP) reduces the pronounced loss of knee-extension strength at discharge after fast-track TKA. Patients and methods - 70 patients undergoing elective unilateral TKA were randomized (1:1) to preoperative intravenous (IV) MP 125 mg (group MP) or isotonic saline IV (group C). All procedures were performed under spinal anesthesia without tourniquet, and with a standardized multimodal analgesic regime. The primary outcome was change in knee-extension strength from baseline to 48 hours postoperatively. Secondary outcomes were knee joint circumference, functional performance using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, pain during the aforementioned tests, rescue analgesic requirements, and plasma C-reactive protein (CRP) changes. Results - 61 patients completed the follow-up. The loss in quadriceps muscle strength was similar between groups; group MP 1.04 (0.22-1.91) Nm/kg (-89%) vs. group C 1.02 (0.22-1.57) Nm/kg (-88%). Also between-group differences were similar for knee circumference, TUG test, and pain scores. MP reduced the inflammatory response (CRP) at 24 hours postoperatively; group MP 33 (IQR 21-50) mg/L vs. group C 72 (IQR 58-92) mg/L (p < 0.001), and 48 hours postoperatively; group MP 83 (IQR 56-125) mg/L vs. group C 192 (IQR 147-265) mg/L (p < 0.001), respectively. Interpretation - Preoperative systemic administration of MP 125 mg did not reduce the pronounced loss of knee-extension strength or other functional outcomes at discharge after fast-track TKA despite a reduced systemic inflammatory response.

Effect of intermediate dose dexamethasone on post-operative pain in lumbar spine surgery: A randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

Dexamethasone has demonstrated analgesic properties and is used as an adjunctive pain agent for many procedures. We evaluated the efficacy of a single, intermediate dose of dexamethasone on post-operative analgesic consumption, and pain scores for lumbar spine surgery.

METHODS

Eighty patients aged between 18 and 70 scheduled for lumbar decompressive laminectomy were randomly allocated into two groups to receive either intravenous 0.2 mg/kg dexamethasone (group D = 40) or normal saline (group P = 40) before anesthetic induction. Post-operative total morphine consumption and the respective pain score at the PACU, 4, 6, 12, 24 and 48 h were evaluated. In addition, any adverse events were recorded.

RESULTS

Total post-operative morphine consumption within 48 h was significantly lower in group D (34.5 vs. 42.5 mg, p = 0.031); however, the respective morphine consumption at each assessment was similar between groups. The respective NRS pain score at rest and upon movement in both groups was not significantly different for any time comparison. The average NRS pain score at rest and upon movement within 48 h was similar in both groups (i.e., NRS at rest Group D 3.6 vs. Group P 3.8, p = 0.936, and NRS for movement Group D 6.2 vs. Group P 6.3, p = 0.791). The adverse events within 48 h were also similar and serious complications (i.e., respiratory depression or surgical infection) were not found in either group.

CONCLUSION

A single, intermediate dose of dexamethasone before anesthetic induction could minimally decrease post-operative morphine consumption within 48 h after lumbar decompressive laminectomy without any effect on the pain score.

Preoperative intravenous glucocorticoids can reduce postoperative acute pain following total knee arthroplasty: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The ability of preoperative intravenous glucocorticoids to control pain after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been examined in many studies, but it remains controversial. Therefore, we undertook a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the efficacy and safety of preoperative intravenous glucocorticoids for postoperative pain management after TKA.

METHODS

We systematically searched RCTs from electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, the Chinese Wanfang Database, and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure database. The outcomes included visual analogue scale (VAS) scores at 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours after TKA; the occurrence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV); blood glucose at 6 and 24 hours after TKA; and the occurrence of infection.

RESULTS

Of the identified studies, a total of 11 RCTs involving 1000 patients (glucocorticoids = 501, control = 499) were included in this meta-analysis. Compared with a placebo, preoperative intravenous glucocorticoids significantly reduced VAS scores at 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours, with decreases of 3.63 points, 6.81 points, 10.40 points, and 3.15 points, respectively, on a 110-point VAS. Moreover, intravenous glucocorticoids were associated with significant decreases of 19.4% and 16.8% in the occurrence of nausea and vomiting, respectively. However, intravenous glucocorticoids were also associated with increased blood glucose with no clinical importance at 6 hours after TKA. No significant difference was found in the occurrence of infection or in blood glucose at 24 hours after TKA.

CONCLUSION

Preoperative intravenous glucocorticoids are an effective and safe method to reduce postoperative pain and PONV in patients following TKA. More studies are necessary to identify the optimal dose and type of glucocorticoids for maximal pain control.

In patients undergoing fast track total knee arthroplasty, addition of buprenorphine to a femoral nerve block has no clinical advantage: A prospective, double-blinded, randomized, placebo controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Several adjuvants have been proposed to prolong the effect of peripheral nerve blocks, one of which is buprenorphine. In this randomized double blinded placebo controlled trial we studied whether the addition of buprenorphine to a femoral nerve block prolongs analgesia in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty in a fast track surgery protocol.

METHODS

The treatment group (B) was given an ultrasound-guided femoral nerve block with ropivacaine 0.2% and 0.3mg buprenorphine. We choose to use 2 control groups. Group R was given a femoral nerve block with ropivacaine 0.2% only. Group S also received 0.3 mg buprenorphine subcutaneously. Only patients with a successful block were enrolled in the study.

RESULTS

We found no difference in our primary outcome parameter of time to first rescue analgesic. We found lower opioid use and better sleep quality the first postoperative night in patients receiving buprenorphine perineurally or subcutaneously. Buprenorphine did not lead to any significant change in pain or mobilization. We found a high overall incidence of nausea and vomiting.

CONCLUSION

In patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty, in the setting of a fast track surgery protocol, the addition of buprenorphine to a femoral nerve block did not prolong analgesia.

Perioperative systemic steroid for rapid recovery in total knee and hip arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials

BACKGROUND

Perioperative systemic steroid administration for rapid recovery in total knee and hip arthroplasty (TKA/THA) is an important and controversial topic. We conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the overall benefits and harms of perioperative systemic steroid in patients undergoing TKA and THA.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was performed on PubMed, OVID, and Web of Science databases, and a systematic approach was carried out starting from the PRISMA recommendations. Relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were selected. The risk of bias was evaluated according to the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions version. Data were extracted and meta-analyzed or qualitatively synthesized for all the outcomes.

RESULTS

Data were extracted from 11 trials involving 774 procedures. Meta-analysis showed that high-dose systemic steroid (dexamethasone > 0.1 mg/kg) rather than low dose is effective to reduce postoperative nausea and vomiting and postoperative acute pain (within 24 h). In addition, systemic steroid is associated within faster functional rehabilitation and greater inflammation control. On the other hand, systemic steroid is associated with a higher level of postoperative serum glucose on the operation day. The complications between groups are similarly low.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that by providing lower incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting and less postoperative acute pain, high-dose systemic steroid plays a critical role in rapid recovery to TKA and THA. The preliminary results also show the superior possibility of systemic steroid in functional rehabilitation and inflammation control. More large, high-quality studies that investigate the safety and dose-response relationship are necessary.

Can intravenous steroid administration reduce postoperative pain scores following total knee arthroplasty?: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was to evaluate whether intravenous steroids would result in reduced acute pain and postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) among patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS

Electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library, were searched to identify articles published from database inception to July 2016. RCTs that compared the effects of intravenous steroids with the effects of placebo among patients undergoing TKA were included in this meta-analysis. The primary outcomes were visual analogue scale (VAS) scores after 12, 24, and 48 hours of rest and PONV incidence. The secondary outcomes were blood glucose levels and incidence of infection. We calculated the risk ratio (RR) with its corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) for dichotomous outcomes and the mean difference (MD) with its corresponding 95% CI for continuous outcomes.

RESULTS

Seven clinical trials involving 434 patients were included in the final meta-analysis. The pooled results indicated that intravenous steroids were associated with decreased VAS scores after 24 hours (MD = -10.21, 95%CI = -18.80 to -1.63, P = .020) and 48 hours (MD = -2.60, 95%CI = -4.70 to -0.50, P = .015) of rest. Moreover, intravenous steroids were also associated with decreased risk of nausea (RR = 0.58, 95% CI 0.44-0.77, P = .000) and vomiting (RR = 0.46, 95% CI = 0.24-0.88, P = .019). However, intravenous steroids were also associated with increased blood glucose levels. No significant difference in the risk of infection was identified between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSION

Intravenous steroids may be associated with decreased pain intensity and decreased risk of nausea and vomiting during the early period following TKA. However, evidence supporting its use is limited by the low quality of and variations in dosing regimens between the included RCTs. Thus, more high-quality RCTs are needed to identify the optimal drug administration intervals for maximal pain control.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of intravenous glucocorticoids for acute pain following total hip arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Glucocorticoids are increasingly used perioperatively, principally to prevent postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), and acute postoperative pain following total hip arthroplasty (THA). The authors hypothesized that preoperative intravenous glucocorticoids is associated with less pain scores and PONV without increasing the complications after THA.

METHODS

Four databases (PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science) were searched with the limitations of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The search cutoff date was set at November 6, 2016. Participants were patients who were prepared for primary THA. Intervention was preoperative intravenous glucocorticoids for postoperative pain control. Outcomes including the visual analog scale (VAS) scores at the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) and at 24 and 48 hours post operation, the occurrence of PONV and total morphine consumption were recorded. We calculated risk ratio (RR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) for dichotomous outcomes, and the weighted mean difference (WMD) with a 95% CI for continuous outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 6 studies were evaluated, which included 297 patients who underwent hip surgery with intravenous glucocorticoid treatment and control patients who underwent hip surgery without glucocorticoid treatment. Pooled results indicated that intravenous glucocorticoid treatment was associated with a reduction of VAS scores at the PACU (WMD = -9.06, 95% CI -12.67 to -5.45, P = .000) and total morphine consumption by 15.68 mg (WMD = -15.68, 95% CI -24.60 to -6.75, P = .001). No significant difference was observed in the VAS scores at 24 and 48 hours between the intravenous glucocorticoid and placebo treatments. Intravenous steroids can decrease the occurrence of PONV (RR = 0.46, 95% CI 0.26-0.82, P = .029).

CONCLUSION

Intravenous glucocorticoid treatment can decrease early pain intensity and PONV after THA. However, the evidence for the use of glucocorticoids is limited by the low number of studies and variation in dosing regimens. Thus, additional high-quality RCTs are needed to identify the optimal drug protocol and determine the safety of intravenous glucocorticoids.

Perioperative systemic glucocorticoids in total hip and knee arthroplasty: A systematic review of outcomes

BACKGROUND

Perioperative systemic glucocorticoids are frequently included in multimodal analgesia and antiemetic regimens administered to patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the available randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to determine the effect of perioperative systemic glucocorticoids on postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), pain, narcotic consumption, antiemetic consumption, length of stay in hospital, and major complications in patients undergoing elective THA or TKA.

METHODS

A predefined protocol of eligibility and methodology was used for conduct of systematic reviews. Two reviewers screened citations for inclusion, assessed methodological quality, and verified the extracted data.

RESULTS

Six RCTs were included for analysis. Across all outcomes analyzed, patients who received glucocorticoids experienced either a benefit or no difference compared to those patients who did not receive glucocorticoids. There were no instances in which perioperative glucocorticoids had a negative impact on any of the outcomes that were analyzed. Furthermore, perioperative glucocorticoids had no effect on the rates of superficial infection, deep infection, wound complications or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

CONCLUSION

The results of this systematic review support the use of perioperative systemic glucocorticoids in patients undergoing elective total hip and knee arthroplasty. Perioperative glucocorticoids have overall positive outcomes with the benefits being more robust in those patients undergoing TKA compared to THA. Glucocorticoids did not increase the occurrence of major complications. There is limited data to support the conclusion that they can reduce length of stay in hospital.

Low-dose dexamethasone during arthroplasty: What do we know about the risks?

Dexamethasone is commonly applied during arthroplasty to control post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV). However, conflicting views of orthopaedic surgeons and anaesthesiologists regarding the use of dexamethasone raise questions about risks of impaired wound healing and surgical site infections (SSI).

The aim of this systematic review is to determine the level of evidence for the safety of a peri-operative single low dose of dexamethasone in hip and knee arthroplasty.

We systematically reviewed literature in PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane databases and cited references in articles found in the initial search from 1980 to 2013 based on predefined inclusion criteria. The review was completed with a ‘pro’ and ‘con’ discussion.

After identifying 11 studies out of 104, only eight studies met the inclusion criteria. In total, 1335 patients were studied without any incidence of SSI. Causes of SSI are multifactorial. Therefore, 27 205 patients would be required (power = 90%, alpha = 0.05) to provide substantiated conclusions on safety of a single low dose of dexamethasone.

Positively, many studies demonstrated showed convincing effects of low-dose dexamethasone on prevention of PONV and dose-dependent effects on post-operative pain and quality of recovery. Dexamethasone induces hyperglycaemia, but none of the studies demonstrated a concomitant SSI.

Conversely, animal studies showed that high dose dexamethasone inhibits wound healing.

A team approach of anaesthesiologists and orthopaedic surgeons is mandatory in order to balance the risk–benefit ratio of peri-operatively applied steroids for individual arthroplasty patients.

We did not find evidence that a single low dose of dexamethasone contributes to SSI or wound healing impairment from the current studies.

Cite this article: Wegener JT, Kraal T, Stevens MF, Hollman MW, Kerkhoffs GMMJ, Haverkamp D. Low-dose dexamethasone during arthroplasty: what do we know about the risks? EFORT Open Rev 2016;1:303-309. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.1.000039.

Postoperative pain treatment after total knee arthroplasty: A systematic review

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this systematic review was to document efficacy, safety and quality of evidence of analgesic interventions after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS

This PRISMA-compliant and PROSPERO-registered review includes all-language randomized controlled trials of medication-based analgesic interventions after TKA. Bias was evaluated according to Cochrane methodology. Outcomes were opioid consumption (primary), pain scores at rest and during mobilization, adverse events, and length of stay. Interventions investigated in three or more trials were meta-analysed. Outcomes were evaluated using forest plots, Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE), L'Abbe Plots and trial sequential analysis.

RESULTS

The included 113 trials, investigating 37 different analgesic interventions, were characterized by unclear/high risk of bias, low assay sensitivity and considerable differences in pain assessment tools, basic analgesic regimens, and reporting of adverse events. In meta-analyses single and continuous femoral nerve block (FNB), intrathecal morphine, local infiltration analgesia, intraarticular injection of local anaesthetics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and gabapentinoids demonstrated significant analgesic effects. The 24-hour morphine-sparing effects ranged from 4.2 mg (CI: 1.3, 7.2; intraarticular local anaesthetics), to 16.6 mg (CI: 11.2, 22; single FNB). Pain relieving effects at rest at 6 hours ranged from 4 mm (CI: -10, 2; gabapentinoids), to 19 mm (CI: 8, 31; single FNB), and at 24 hours from 3 mm (CI: -2, 8; gabapentinoids), to 16 mm (CI: 8, 23; continuous FNB). GRADE-rated quality of evidence was generally low.

CONCLUSION

A low quality of evidence, small sample sizes and heterogeneity of trial designs prohibit designation of an optimal procedure-specific analgesic regimen after TKA.

Anesthesia for the patient undergoing total knee replacement: current status and future prospects

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has become one of the most common orthopedic surgical procedures performed nationally. As the population and surgical techniques for TKAs have evolved over time, so have the anesthesia and analgesia used for these procedures. General anesthesia has been the dominant form of anesthesia utilized for TKA in the past, but regional anesthetic techniques are on the rise. Multiple studies have shown the potential for regional anesthesia to improve patient outcomes, such as a decrease in intraoperative blood loss, length of stay, and patient mortality. Anesthesiologists are also moving toward multimodal analgesia, which includes peripheral nerve blockade, periarticular injection, and preemptive analgesia. The goal of multimodal analgesia is to improve perioperative pain control while minimizing systemic narcotic consumption. With improved postoperative pain management and rapid patient rehabilitation, new clinical pathways have been engineered to fast track patient recovery after orthopedic procedures. The aim of these clinical pathways was to improve quality of care, minimize unnecessary variations in care, and reduce cost by using streamlined procedures and protocols. The future of TKA care will be formalized clinical pathways and tracks to better optimize perioperative algorithms with regard to pain control and perioperative rehabilitation.

Perioperative intravenous glucocorticoids can decrease postoperative nausea and vomiting and pain in total joint arthroplasty: A meta-analysis and trial sequence analysis

BACKGROUND

This meta-analysis aimed to demonstrate the efficacy and safety of intravenous glucocorticoids for reducing pain intensity and postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty (TJA).

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Web of Science, and Google databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing intravenous glucocorticoids versus no intravenous glucocorticoids or sham for patients undergoing TJA. Outcomes included visual analogue scale (VAS) pain at 12, 24, and 48 hours; the occurrence of PONV; length of hospital stay; the occurrence of infection; and blood glucose levels after surgery. We calculated risk ratios (RR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) for dichotomous outcomes and the weighted mean difference (WMD) with a 95% CI for continuous outcomes. Trial sequential analysis was also used to verify the pooled results.

RESULTS

Thirteen clinical trials involving 821 patients were ultimately included in this meta-analysis. The pooled results indicated that intravenous steroids can decrease VAS at 12 hours (WMD = -8.54, 95% CI -11.55 to -5.53, P = 0.000; I = 35.1%), 24 hours (WMD = -7.48, 95% CI -13.38 to -1.59, P = 0.013; I = 91.8%), and 48 hours (WMD = -1.90, 95% CI -3.75 to -0.05, P = 0.044; I = 84.5%). Intravenous steroids can decrease the occurrence of PONV (RR = 0.56, 95% CI 0.44-0.73, P = 0.000; I = 33.1%). There was no significant difference in the length of hospital stay, occurrence of infection, and blood glucose levels after surgery.

CONCLUSION

Intravenous glucocorticoids not only alleviate early pain intensity but also decrease PONV after TJA. More high-quality RCTs are required to determine the safety of glucocorticoids before making final recommendations.

Safety of Perioperative Glucocorticoids in Elective Noncardiac Surgery

Background

Glucocorticoids are increasingly used perioperatively, principally to prevent nausea and vomiting. Safety concerns focus on the potential for hyperglycemia and increased infection. The authors hypothesized that glucocorticoids predispose to such adverse outcomes in a dose-dependent fashion after elective noncardiac surgery.

Methods

The authors conducted a systematic literature search of the major medical databases from their inception to April 2016. Randomized glucocorticoid trials in adults specifically reporting on a safety outcome were included and meta-analyzed with Peto odds ratio method or the quality effects model. Subanalyses were performed according to a dexamethasone dose equivalent of low (less than 8 mg), medium (8 to 16 mg), and high (more than 16 mg). The primary endpoints of any wound infection and peak perioperative glucose concentrations were subject to meta-regression.

Results

Fifty-six trials from 18 countries were identified, predominantly assessing dexamethasone. Glucocorticoids did not impact on any wound infection (odds ratio, 0.8; 95% CI, 0.6 to 1.2) but did result in a clinically unimportant increase in peak perioperative glucose concentration (weighted mean difference, 20.0 mg/dl; CI, 11.4 to 28.6; P &lt; 0.001 or 1.1 mM; CI, 0.6 to 1.6). Glucocorticoids reduced peak postoperative C-reactive protein concentrations (weighted mean difference, −22.1 mg/l; CI, −31.7 to −12.5; P &lt; 0.001), but other adverse outcomes and length of stay were unchanged. No dose–effect relationships were apparent.

Conclusions

The evidence at present does not highlight any safety concerns with respect to the use of perioperative glucocorticoids and subsequent infection, hyperglycemia, or other adverse outcomes. Nevertheless, collated trials lacked sufficient surveillance and power to detect clinically important differences in complications such as wound infection.

International consensus on the definition and classification of fibrosis of the knee joint

AIMS

The aim of this consensus was to develop a definition of post-operative fibrosis of the knee.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

An international panel of experts took part in a formal consensus process composed of a discussion phase and three Delphi rounds.

RESULTS

Post-operative fibrosis of the knee was defined as a limited range of movement (ROM) in flexion and/or extension, that is not attributable to an osseous or prosthetic block to movement from malaligned, malpositioned or incorrectly sized components, metal hardware, ligament reconstruction, infection (septic arthritis), pain, chronic regional pain syndrome (CRPS) or other specific causes, but due to soft-tissue fibrosis that was not present pre-operatively. Limitation of movement was graded as mild, moderate or severe according to the range of flexion (90° to 100°, 70° to 89°, < 70°) or extension deficit (5° to 10°, 11° to 20°, > 20°). Recommended investigations to support the diagnosis and a strategy for its management were also agreed.

CONCLUSION

The development of standardised, accepted criteria for the diagnosis, classification and grading of the severity of post-operative fibrosis of the knee will facilitate the identification of patients for inclusion in clinical trials, the development of clinical guidelines, and eventually help to inform the management of this difficult condition. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:1479-88.

Can local infiltration analgesia increase satisfaction in postoperative short-term pain control in total knee arthroplasty?

BACKGROUND

One of the major challenges to total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is optimal pain control. Effective analgesia is capital in fast-track surgery programs to allow patient's early functional outcomes.

OBJECTIVES

Compare length of stay (LOS) short-term pain control, and patients' satisfaction at 1 month between local infiltration analgesia (LIA) combined with femoral nerve block (FNB) and FNB only in patients undergoing TKA.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Two hundred and fifty-four patients were included in a randomized prospective study and distributed in two groups. The first group received an intraoperative LIA (150 mL mixture of ropivacaine 2.0 mg/mL + ketorolac 30 mg + adrenaline 10 μg/mL) combined to an FNB. The control group had only an FNB. Demographical data and visual analog scale (VAS) score were obtained preoperatively, at 36 h after surgery and at the 15-day follow-up. Patients' satisfaction at 1 month was also evaluated. Statistical analysis data was performed.

RESULTS

No differences in demographical data and preoperative VAS score were observed between both groups. LIA group had a lower VAS score at 36 h after surgery (1.34 ± 1.31 vs. 3.68 ± 1.932 in the control group, p = 0.00), but these differences were not maintained at the 15-day follow-up (4.51 ± 1.889 vs. 4.11 ± 1.940 in the control group, p > 0.05). LOS and patients' satisfaction were comparable between groups. Patients with LIA had no additional complications.

CONCLUSIONS

LIA is a safe adjuvant to FNB to reduce perioperative pain during the first 36 h after TKA. Its effects wean with time, but do cover the first crucial hours of rehabilitation in a fast-track program. LIA seems don't modify postoperative course nor patient's satisfaction at short-term follow-up. The final impact of LIA on surgical outcome is still to be determined.

Methylprednisolone reduces pain and decreases knee swelling in the first 24 h after fast-track unicompartmental knee arthroplasty

PURPOSE

Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) results in less operative trauma and faster patient recovery than after a conventional total knee arthroplasty. Despite an increased focus on multimodal analgesic strategies, there is still a substantial level of patient-reported pain in the early postsurgical period after UKA. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effect of a single preoperative dose of systemic methylprednisolone on postsurgical pain after fast-track UKA.

METHODS

Seventy-two patients in two consecutive series undergoing unilateral UKA were included in a prospective cohort study. The patients (n = 35) in the treatment group received a single preoperative dose of systemic methylprednisolone 125 mg, whereas the control group (n = 37) did not. Outcome measures were postsurgical pain at rest and during walking, consumption of opioids for pain rescue, knee swelling and knee range of motion, and complications.

RESULTS

In the first 24 h after surgery, the treatment group had less pain at rest (p < 0.001) and during walking (p < 0.001) and less consumption of opioids (p = 0.01) in comparison with the control group. Furthermore, the treatment group had 2.2 cm less knee swelling (p = 0.02) in the first post-operative day, and better knee extension (p = 0.004), whereas knee flexion was similar (n.s.) between groups. No serious complications were associated with the treatment.

CONCLUSION

Addition of a single preoperative dose of 125 mg systemic methylprednisolone to a multimodal analgesic regime significantly reduced postsurgical pain and opioid consumption and decreased knee swelling in the first 24 h after fast-track UKA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic study, Level II.

Analgesic Effect of Dexamethasone after Arthroscopic Knee Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background. Dexamethasone is sometimes used as a coanalgesic because of its anti-inflammatory properties. Objective. To evaluate opioid use, postoperative pain intensity, and side effects after a single dose of dexamethasone in patients undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery. Methods. In this randomized controlled study patients were randomized to receive either 10 mg of intravenous dexamethasone (DM group) or 0.9% normal saline (NS group) during the intraoperative period. Primary outcomes were pain intensity and total morphine and codeine use after surgery. Results. Seventy-eight patients were included in the study. The DM group showed statistically significant higher pain intensity at the fourth postoperative hour (DM: 3.96/10, standard deviation [SD] 0.54; NS: 2.46/10, SD 0.45; p = 0.036). No statistically significant difference in total opioid use (morphine plus codeine) was identified with 15.9 (SD 1.97) codeine tablets used in DM group and 20 (SD 2.14) in NS group (p = 0.25). Discussion. Pain intensity tended to decrease in both groups suggesting morphine as the main source of analgesia. Conclusions. Intravenous dexamethasone during the intraoperative period has no clinical impact on postoperative pain intensity during the first 48 h after arthroscopic knee surgery. This trial is registered with R000020892.