Optimizing leg length correction in total hip arthroplasty

Multicenter survey about leg length discrepancy and total hip arthroplasty: postoperative management

BACKGROUND

We created a Multicenter Survey for Italian orthopedics surgeons on how they approach leg length discrepancy when dealing with primary total hip arthroplasty. Aim of the study was to show how surgeons manage LLD and follow literature recommendations during clinical practice.

METHODS

The Survey was composed of 25 questions divided in 4 sections: surgeon's profile, preoperative and intraoperative evaluation, postoperative management. In this paper, we report the absolute and relative frequencies of answers to section on "postoperative management." Then, regarding the treatment of residual LLD, we reported whether trauma surgeons and experts in replacement surgery had higher odds ratios for providing "literature-based" answers compared to orthopedics physicians.

RESULTS

Only four questions received more than 70% agreement on one of the answers. The OR for giving the "literature-based" answer, taking OP as the reference group was 1.57 for TR and 1.72 for RS for 10 mm LLD at first follow-up (FU) and 1.23 TR and 1.32 RS when 20 mm. When 10 mm LLD at 3 months FU the OR was 0.88 TR and 1.15 RS. The OR for treatment of LLD after the first examination of a new patient was 2.16 TR and 1.85 RS.

CONCLUSIONS

LLD is a debated topic with no definitive recommendations. Many decisions still depend on tradition. Treatment of LLD during clinical practice often differs from literature recommendations.

Comparison of leg length discrepancy after total hip arthroplasty: Direct anterior and posterior lateral approach

BACKGROUND

Leg length discrepancy (LLD) after total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a clinical entity that deteriorates clinical outcomes and patients' satisfaction. Few articles have compared LLD after THA by different surgical approaches.

METHODS

A total of 358 consecutive patients who underwent primary THA between January 2016 and November 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. All 4 surgeons performed THA through both direct anterior approach (DAA) and posterior lateral approach (PLA). The primary outcome measurement was LLD. LLD was measured on post-operative anteroposterior bilateral hip radiograph. The secondary outcomes were acetabular abduction, acetabular anteversion, perceived LLD (pLLD) and HHS at 6 weeks, 1 year and 5 years. Intergroup analyses were performed using the Chi-square test for enumeration data and the independent sample t-test for quantitative data.

RESULTS

There was no inter-group difference in terms of patients' demographics. The DAA group had decreased LLD compared to the PLA group (3.0 ± 5.9mm vs. 4.2 ± 4.5mm, p = 0.027). Meanwhile, the DAA group had a smaller acetabular anteversion than the PLA group (12.9 ± 2.9 vs. 18.4 ± 2.9, p < 0.01). At 6-week follow-up, the DAA group had higher HHS (82.2 + 6.2 vs. 80.5 + 6.6, p = 0.015) and less pLLD (P = 0.001) compared to the PLA group.

CONCLUSIONS

DAA results in more accurate leg length equalization, reduced pLLD, and improved short-term outcomes compared with PLA.

Usefulness of an Extensible Trial Neck in Total Hip Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Maintaining appropriate soft tissue tension is essential in total hip arthroplasty (THA). Surgeons generally achieve this by altering the neck length. However, experimenting with different neck lengths is time-consuming, as it requires repeated hip dislocations. To address this, we have used a new extensible trial neck device that allows for easy adjustment of neck length during surgery. This device can help surgeons avoid the need for repeated hip dislocations to determine the correct neck size. The objective of this research was to investigate whether this device could help shorten operative times and decrease surgical invasion for patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients undergoing THA were randomly separated into two groups. The first group used the extensible trial neck during trial reduction after the stem and cup were placed (group M), while the second group used a conventional trial neck (group C). Operative time, blood loss, number of additional dislocations needed during the operation, and C-reactive protein (CRP) and creatine phosphokinase (CPK) levels after the operation were compared.

RESULTS

Operative time was significantly shorter and the number of additional dislocations required to choose the final neck size was significantly lower in group M compared with group C. No significant difference in blood loss was observed. CRP and CPK levels days 3 and 7 after surgery decreased in group M compared with group C.

CONCLUSION

The extensible trial neck was useful for THA by greatly reducing operative time and stress on the patient. [Orthopedics. 202x;4x(x):xx-xx.].

Preserving medial iliofemoral ligament avoids excessive leg lengthening in total hip arthroplasty using anterolateral-supine approach

Background

In this study, we compared postoperative leg length discrepancy (LLD) after total hip arthroplasty using the anterolateral-supine approach (ALSA THA) with or without medial iliofemoral ligament (mILFL) preservation and examined the effect of the remaining mILFL on postoperative LLD.

Methods

This was a single-center, retrospective case control study. Unilateral primary THA with a preoperative LLD <15 mm, in which the contralateral side was intact, was included. After ALSA THA, we compared the absolute values of postoperative LLDs and examined the ratio of postoperative LLD >5 mm with and without mILFL preservation. Demographic data, clinical scores, and operative data were collected. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results

We included 341 hips (preservation group: 283 hips; resection group: 58 hips). The mean (range) absolute values of the postoperative LLDs were 2.3 (0-15.9) mm and 3.4 (0-14.8) mm, respectively. There was no significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.36). The proportion of postoperative LLD >5 mm differed significantly between the groups (4.4 % and 20.0 %, respectively; p < 0.01). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that resection of the mILFL was the only significant factor that caused excessive leg lengthening (odds ratio, 5.28; 95 % confidence interval, 2.12-13.10, p < 0.01). Significant differences were reported in surgical time (81 (38-132) and 96 (54-157), respectively; p < 0.01) and intraoperative blood loss (297 (50-1170) and 388 (100-1150), respectively; p < 0.01). However, no significant differences in clinical scores, dislocation (including instability), or reoperation rates were observed between the two groups.

Conclusion

In patients with a preoperative LLD <15 mm, preserving the mILFL in ALSA THA avoids excessive leg lengthening and may lead to shorter LLD without any difficulties.

Accuracy of leg length changes in total hip arthroplasty using a computed tomography-based augmented reality navigation system

INTRODUCTION

Leg length is an important consideration in total hip arthroplasty (THA) as leg length discrepancies (LLD) after THA cause poor outcomes and medical litigation. This study aimed to investigate the accuracy of computed tomography (CT)-based navigation with augmented reality (AR) technology for measuring intra-operative leg length change using anteroposterior radiography (two-dimensional, 2D) and CT (three-dimensional, 3D).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study included 71 patients (75 hips) who underwent primary cementless THA in the supine position between June 2022 and November 2023 using the HoloNavi One. To assess the accuracy of the HoloNavi One based on 2D and 3D measurements, the absolute error between the intra-operative leg length change and the 2D and 3D measurements was evaluated, and the correlations were investigated. Additionally, factors affecting the absolute error were examined using multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

The mean intra-operative leg length change when using the HoloNavi One was 6.5 ± 5.0 mm, while the mean leg length change on the 2D and 3D measurements were 5.9 ± 4.8 mm and 4.6 ± 5.7 mm, respectively. The mean absolute errors were 2.3 ± 2.7 mm between the HoloNavi One and 2D measurements, and 3.8 ± 3.3 mm between HoloNavi One and 3D measurements. The absolute errors in leg length changes for the 3D measurements were greater than those for the 2D measurements (p < 0.01). Positive correlations of leg length changes were found between the HoloNavi One and the 2D and 3D measurements. In the multiple regression analysis, no significant factors affecting the absolute error were identified in either the 2D or 3D measurements.

CONCLUSIONS

CT-based navigation with AR technology in the supine position provided acceptable accuracy for leg length change measurements.

Simultaneous bilateral total hip arthroplasty results in smaller Leg length discrepancy than staged bilateral procedures

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to compare leg length discrepancies (LLD) between simultaneous and staged bilateral total hip arthroplasty (BTHA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 150 consecutive patients who underwent BTHA (60 simultaneous and 90 staged BTHA). To adjust for preoperative patient characteristics between groups, 1:1 propensity score matching was performed based on age, sex, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status, Tönnis classification, Crowe classification, preoperative range of motion (flexion and abduction), LLD, and Harris Hip Score (HHS). Finally, 66 patients (33 pairs) with comparable preoperative backgrounds were analyzed. Postoperative LLD and clinical outcomes, including HHS, range of motion (flexion and abduction), operative time, intraoperative blood loss, and complications, were compared between the simultaneous and staged BTHA groups.

RESULTS

The LLD in the simultaneous BTHA group was significantly smaller than that in the staged BTHA group (simultaneous BTHA, 3.5 ± 3.2 mm; staged BTHA, 6.2 ± 4.5 mm, p < 0.001). The rate of LLD ≤ 7 mm was significantly higher in simultaneous BTHA (84.8%) compared to staged BTHA (57.6%) (p = 0.028). Other outcomes, including the HHS, range of motion (flexion and abduction), operative time, intraoperative blood loss, and complication rates were similar between the groups.

CONCLUSION

Simultaneous BTHA has the potential to provide smaller LLD than staged BTHA because simultaneous surgery enables intraoperative comparison of bilateral leg lengths based on both extra- and intra-articular measurements. This approach may be advantageous for postoperative patient satisfaction.

What is the clinical detection threshold for lower limb length inequality? In silico study of reproducibility and optimization using a centimeter graduated support

INTRODUCTION

The threshold of a Leg Length Discrepancy (LLD) by clinical examination on a sheet or centimeter paper (CP) is not known precisely whether or not it concerns limbs equipped with a hip prosthesis. We therefore conducted a prospective in silico study in order to: (1) determine the reproducibility and sensitivity of the clinical measurement of the LLD in different ideal and "degraded" clinical situations, (2) determine the threshold from which the human eye is capable of detecting a length inequality in clinic, (3) to determine whether the use of a graduated support (centimeter paper) improves the clinical measurement threshold.

HYPOTHESIS

Our hypothesis was that clinical measurement on a centimeter support would improve clinical measurement accuracy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This was an in silico study, the experiment was conducted on a mannequin. Different inequalities were created on a mannequin and photographed with a total of 30 inequalities from -22 to +22 mm on sheet or centimeter paper (CP). This was a multicenter study, with 40 different readers. We asked the readers to make a second measurement one month later. We evaluated the inter- and intra-observer reproducibility. The error rate at the threshold of 3 mm and 5 mm were calculated versus the gold standard. Finally, we determined at which thresholds respectively 75% and 95% of the measurements were correct.

RESULTS

A total of 4140 measurements were performed and compared to the gold standard. With a threshold of 75% accurate measurement, the LLD detection threshold was 2.8 mm on centimeter paper and 4.5 mm on sheet. With a threshold of 95% accurate measurement, the LLD detection threshold was 3.4 mm on centimeter paper and 5.2 mm on sheet. Interobserver agreement (assessed overall on the 40 observers by Krippendorff's generalized Kappa) was 0.86 (95% confidence interval (CI95%) = 0.79 to 0.92) on CP and 0.71 (CI95% = 0.63 to 0.79) on sheet. Intra-observer agreement assessed by the intraclass correlation coefficient among observers who made 2 measurements had a median value (IQR) of 0.96 (0.94 to 0.99) on CP and 0.90 (0.83 to 0.94) on sheet.

DISCUSSION

The clinical detection threshold on sheet at the patient's bed appears close to 5 mm. A more precise measurement is possible with graduated centimeter paper. A study in daily practice on patients in real situations would confirm our results.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III; prospective diagnostic comparative in Silico study.

Does the utilization of fluoroscopy affect the accuracy of prosthesis position in patients undergoing hip replacement surgery via the direct anterior approach compared to the posterolateral approach for an experienced surgeon? A single-center retrospective study

BACKGROUND

The direct anterior approach (DAA) for total hip arthroplasty (THA) has gained popularity due to perceived advantages in achieving better early outcomes. However, the theoretical benefits such as precise implant positioning and accurate leg length restoration are still inconsistent. In this study, we compared implant position and leg length discrepancy (LLD) of the DAA and posterolateral approach (PLA) conducted by a single surgeon who had mastered both approaches.

METHODS

This study retrospectively reviewed the medical records and radiographic images of 244 patients who underwent THA between 2012 and 2021 by a single experienced surgeon using either the DAA (n = 120) or PLA (n = 124). Postoperative pelvic anteroposterior radiographs at 6 months follow-up were used to assess acetabular component inclination and anteversion, as well as LLD. Mann-Whitney U tests and Chi-squared test were performed to compare outcomes between the two approaches.

RESULTS

No significant differences were observed in patient demographics between the two groups. The DAA group demonstrated significantly lower postoperative LLD (0.00 mm) compared to the PLA group (5.00 mm, p < 0.0001). No significant difference was observed in the Lewinnek zone for cup anteversion and inclination angles between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

For experienced surgeons in other approaches, our findings suggest transferring to the DAA may not substantially improve cup positioning, but it might slightly enhance limb length measurement. For surgeons already proficient in other approaches and deciding to maintain those approaches, their primary concern for optimal THA outcome should be striving for leg length equivalence.

Impact of the hip-spine relationship and patient-perceived leg length discrepancy after total hip arthroplasty: A retrospective study

PURPOSE

Patient-perceived leg length discrepancy (PLLD) is one of the major postoperative complications of total hip arthroplasty (THA). This study aimed to identify factors that cause PLLD following THA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study included a series of consecutive patients who underwent unilateral THA between 2015 and 2020. Ninety-five patients who underwent unilateral THA with postoperative radiographic leg length discrepancy (RLLD) ≤1 cm were classified into two groups according to the direction of preoperative pelvic obliquity (PO). Standing radiographs of the hip joint and whole spine were obtained before and one year after THA. The clinical outcomes and the presence or absence of PLLD was confirmed one year after THA.

RESULTS

Sixty-nine patients were classified as having type 1 PO (rising toward the unaffected side) and 26 were classified as having type 2 PO (rising toward the affected side). Eight patients with type 1 PO and seven with type 2 PO had PLLD postoperatively. In the type 1 group, patients with PLLD had larger preoperative and postoperative PO values and larger preoperative and postoperative RLLD than those without PLLD (p = 0.01, p < 0.001, p = 0.01, and p = 0.007, respectively). In the type 2 group, patients with PLLD had larger preoperative RLLD, larger amount of leg correction, and a larger preoperative L1-L5 angle than those without PLLD (p = 0.03, p = 0.03, and p = 0.03, respectively). In type 1, postoperative PO was significantly associated with postoperative PLLD (p = 0.005), but spinal alignment was not an indicator of postoperative PLLD. The area under the curve (AUC) for postoperative PO was 0.883 (good accuracy) with a cut-off value was 1.90° CONCLUSION: Rigidity of the lumbar spine might lead to postoperative PO as a compensatory movement, resulting in PLLD after THA in type 1. Further research on the relationship between flexibility of the lumbar spine and PLLD is needed.

A large preoperative pelvic oblique angle affects perception of leg length discrepancy after total hip arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

In some cases, patients feel a perceived leg length discrepancy (P-LLD) despite no radiographic leg length discrepancy (R-LLD) after total hip arthroplasty (THA). We aimed to investigate the rate of postoperative P-LLD and the factors that cause postoperative P-LLD.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted on 100 patients with R-LLD ≤5 mm after THA. Patients were classified into two groups based on P-LLD post-THA: group P (with P-LLD) and group E (without P-LLD). Relevant data on the general characteristics and radiological findings between the two groups were compared.

RESULTS

We observed that 25 & 75% of patients belonged to group P and group E, respectively, with no significant difference in patient background. Postoperative Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) classification of pain and activities of daily living scores were significantly lower in group P than in group E (37.2 ± 3.9 vs. 39.1 ± 2.2, respectively; P = 0.013, and 16.2 ± 4.2 vs. 18.2 ± 2.2, respectively; P = 0.011). The preoperative pelvic oblique angle (POA) was significantly larger in group P than in group E (3.3 ± 2.3° vs. -0.2 ± 2.1°; respectively; P < 0.01). The pelvis tilted toward the surgical side was significantly higher in group P than in group E(88% vs 57%; respectively; P = 0.013). The preoperative C7 coronal vertical axis (C7 CVA) was significantly larger in group P than in group E (6.7 ± 14.7 mm vs. -0.2 ± 10.3 mm; respectively; P = 0.028). Multivariate logistic analysis revealed that preoperative POA (OR, 3.71; 95% CI: 1.86-8.12; P < 0.01) and the pelvis tilted toward the surgical side (OR, 4.14; 95% CI: 2.07-9.71; P = 0.022) were independent risk factors for P-LLD after THA.

CONCLUSION

Even though there was no postoperative R-LLD, 25% of patients had P-LLD. A large preoperative POA and the pelvis tilted toward the surgical side were independent risk factors for P-LLD after THA.

Minimal pre-operative leg length discrepancy as a risk factor of post-operative leg length discrepancy after total hip arthroplasty: a retrospective study of patients with non-traumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head

BACKGROUND

Leg length discrepancy (LLD) is one of the troublesome complications of total hip arthroplasty (THA). Previously, several risk factors have been suggested, but they were subjected to their inherent limitations. By controlling confounding variables, we hypothesized that known risk factors be re-evaluated and novel ones be discovered. This study aimed to analyze the independent risk factors for LLD after primary THA in patients with non-traumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed patients with non-traumatic ONFH who underwent unilateral THA between 2014 and 2021. All patients were operated by one senior surgeon using a single implant. Demographic data, surgical parameters, and radiological findings (pre-operative LLD, Dorr classification, and femoral neck resection) were analyzed to identify the risk factors of ≥ 5 mm post-operative LLD based on radiological measurement and to calculate odds ratios by logistic regression analysis. Post hoc power analysis demonstrated that the number of analyzed patients was sufficient with 80% power.

RESULTS

One hundred and eighty-six patients were analyzed, including 96 females, with a mean age of 58.8 years at the time of initial THA. The average post-operative LLD was 1.2 ± 2.9 mm in the control group and 9.7 ± 3.2 mm in the LLD group, respectively. The LLD group tended to have minimal pre-operative LLD than the control group (-3.2 ± 5.1 mm vs. -7.9 ± 5.8 mm p = 2.38 × 10- 8). No significant difference was found between the groups in age, gender, body mass index, femoral cortical index, and implant size.

CONCLUSION

Mild pre-operative LLD is associated with an increased risk of post-operative LLD after primary THA in patients with ONFH. Thus, surgeons should recognize pre-operative LLD to achieve an optimal outcome and must inform patients about the risk of developing LLD.

Stricter correction of leg length discrepancy is required during total hip arthroplasty in patients with ankylosing spondylitis

BACKGROUND

Patients with ankylosing spondylitis often have fusions in the spine and sacroiliac joints, such that it is difficult to compensate for leg length discrepancy (LLD).

METHODS

We retrospectively measured the LLD after total hip arthroplasty (THA) in 89 patients with ankylosing spondylitis from June 2004 to February 2021 at our institute. Patients were divided into two groups based on an LLD of 5 mm. Clinical outcomes were investigated using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and Harris Hip Score (HHS). In addition, these points are investigated: patient satisfaction with the operation; whether there was a current difference in leg length; and whether there was a limping gait.

RESULTS

The group with an LLD of 5-10 mm rather than < 5 mm had significantly worse WOMAC pain and stiffness. The survey revealed statistically significant differences in patient satisfaction with the operation, limping gait, and whether back pain had improved.

CONCLUSION

For patients with ankylosing spondylitis, reducing the LLD to < 5 mm, which is more accurate than the current standard of < 10 mm, may produce greater improvement in clinical outcomes after hip arthroplasty.

Managing early complications in total hip arthroplasty: the safety of immediate revision

PURPOSE

Immediate revision refers to a reoperation that involves resetting, draping, and exchanging the implant, after wound closure in total hip arthroplasty. The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of immediate revision after total hip arthroplasty on subsequent infection and complication rates.

METHODS

A total of 14,076 primary total hip arthroplasties performed between 2010 and 2020 were identified in our institutional database, of which 42 underwent immediate revision. Infection rates were determined 2 years after the index arthroplasty. The cause and type of revision, duration of primary and revision surgeries, National Nosocomial Infections Surveillance score, implant type, changes in implants, complications, and preoperative and intraoperative antibiotic prophylaxis were all determined.

RESULTS

No infections were observed within 2 years after the index arthroplasty. Leg length discrepancy (88%, n = 37) and dislocation (7.1%, n = 3) were the main causes of immediate revision. In most cases of discrepancy, the limb was clinically and radiologically longer before the immediate revision. The mean operative time was 48 ± 14 min for the primary procedure and 23.6 ± 9 min for the revision. The time between the first incision and last skin closure ranged from 1 to 3 h. None of the patients were extubated between the two procedures. Two patients had a National Nosocomial Infections Surveillance score of 2, 13 had a score of 1, and 27 had a score of 0.

CONCLUSION

Immediate revision is safe for correcting clinical and radiological abnormalities, and may not be associated with increased complication or infection rates.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study; level of evidence, 3.

The influence of prosthetic positioning and proximal femoral morphology on leg length discrepancy and early clinical outcomes of cementless total hip arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Leg length discrepancy (LLD) is a common complication of total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, the relationship between femoral prosthesis filling, proximal femoral morphology, and acetabular prosthesis positioning with postoperative LLD and clinical outcomes is unclear. The aims of this study were to investigate the influence of canal flare index (CFI), canal fill ratio (CFR), center of rotation (COR), and femoral offset (FO) on (1) postoperative LLD; and (2) clinical outcomes in the two stem designs with different coating distribution.

METHODS

The study cohort included 161 patients who underwent primary cementless THA between January 2021 and March 2022 with either proximal coating or full coating stems. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the effect of CFI, CFR, COR, and FO on postoperative LLD, and linear regression to assess their effect on clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

No statistical difference was found in clinical outcomes or postoperative LLD between the two groups. High CFI (p = 0.014), low ΔVCOR (p = 0.012), and Gender (p = 0.028) were found independent risk factors for LLD one day postoperative. High CFI was also an independent risk factor for postoperative subjectively perceived LLD (p = 0.013). CFR at the level of 2 cm below the LT (p = 0.017) was an independent risk factor for Harris Hip Score.

CONCLUSIONS

Proximal femoral morphology and acetabular prosthesis positioning but not femoral prosthesis filling affected the LLD. High CFI was an independent risk factor for postoperative LLD and subjectively perceived LLD, and low ΔVCOR was also an independent risk factor for postoperative LLD. Women were susceptible to postoperative LLD.

Comparison of postoperative outcomes between bikini-incision via direct anterior approach and posterolateral approach in simultaneous bilateral total hip arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial

The purpose of this study was to compare an oblique bikini-incision via direct anterior approach (BI-DAA) to a conventional posterolateral approach (PLA) during simultaneous bilateral total hip arthroplasty (simBTHA) in terms of early patient outcomes, postoperative functional recovery, and complications. From January 2017 to January 2020, 106 patients receiving simBTHA were enrolled and randomly allocated to the BI-DAA or PLA group. Primary outcomes were measured using hemoglobin (HGB) drop, transfusion rate, the length of stay (LOS), the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, the Harris hip score, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, and the scar cosmesis assessment and rating scale. Secondary outcomes were the operative time, radiographic measurements, including femoral offset, femoral anteversion, stem varus/valgus angle, and leg length discrepancy (LLD). The occurrence of postoperative complications was also recorded. There were no differences in demographic or clinical characteristics before surgery. Compared to the PLA, the patients in the BI-DAA group had lower HGB drop (24.7 ± 13.3 g/L vs. 34.7 ± 16.7, P < .01) and transfusion rates (9/50 vs. 18/50, P = .04) and a shorter LOS (5.12 ± 1.5 vs. 6.40 ± 2.0 days, P < .01) without increasing the operative time (169.7 ± 17.3 vs. 167.5 ± 21.8 min, P = .58). The BI-DAA group yielded a smaller LLD (2.1 ± 2.3 vs. 3.8 ± 3.0 mm, P < .01) and less variability in component orientation than the PLA group (100% vs. 93%, P = .01). As for the scar, the BI-DAA group produced a shorter incision length (9.7 ± 1.6 vs. 10.8 ± 2.0 mm, P < .01) and higher postoperative recovery satisfaction than the PLA group. Furthermore, the BI-DAA group had a reduced VAS score one week after surgery and had better functional recovery in three months postoperatively. The BI-DAA group had a higher incidence of LFCN dysesthesia (12/100 vs. 0/100 thighs, P < .01), while other complications did not differ significantly between the two groups. For simBTHA, the bikini incision offers early recovery, less variance in components orientation, better postoperative outcomes, and scar healing than the PLA. Therefore, the bikini incision could be a safe and feasible option for simBTHA recipients.

Improved hip symmetry with an adjustable fluoroscopic grid during total hip arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

The use of intraoperative fluoroscopy (IF) is common with direct anterior total hip arthroplasty (THA), however image distortion in IF may limit its usefulness. The supplementation of IF with an adjustable grid (AG) may provide consistently better accuracy in component placement. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare the accuracy, consistency, and surgical efficiency between IF only and AG supplementation.

METHODS

2 cohorts were retrospectively evaluated, including 573 IF only patients and 211 AG patients having undergone unilateral THA between 2011 and 2018. Post-THA radiographic assessment was performed to evaluate the accuracy of component placement, with target placements for global hip offset (GHO) and leg-length differences (LLD) <10 mm and acetabular cup abduction of 45° (±10°). Accuracy and surgical efficiency were evaluated between groups and over time.

RESULTS

The AG group had a significant greater percentage of components placed within the target zone compared to IF only for GHO (99.5%, 92.7%, p < 0.001), LLD (99.1%, 96.5%, p = 0.039) and abduction (99.5%, 96.3%, p = 0.009), with no difference in fluoroscopic time (p = 0.973). Over time, accuracy was significantly different in IF group for GHO (p = 0.008) and abduction (p = 0.002) and trended toward significance for LLD (p = 0.055). There were no significant differences over time for the AG group.

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of an AG to IF significantly increased the accuracy of component placement during direct anterior THA. These results were consistent over 2 years of use and did not decrease surgical efficiency.

Factors influencing inconsistent leg length discrepancy in dysplastic hip osteoarthritis: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

We aimed to examine the inconsistency between radiographic leg length discrepancy (R-LLD) and perceived LLD (P-LLD) in patients with dysplastic hip osteoarthritis and to evaluate the factors that can cause such inconsistency.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study on 120 patients. An inconsistent LLD was defined as a condition in which the P-LLD was shorter than the R-LLD by > 5 mm. We compared relevant data on the general characteristics of the patients and the radiological findings between consistent (group E, 92 cases [76.7%]) and inconsistent LLDs (group S, 28 cases [23.3%]).

RESULTS

The number of patients with a history of hip surgery on the affected side and the Japanese Orthopedic Association classification pain scores were significantly higher in group S than in group E (32.1% vs. 10.8%, respectively; P = 0.015, and 21.7 ± 7.0 vs. 17.5 ± 8.2, respectively; P = 0.036). The pelvic oblique angle and length of the R-LLD were significantly higher in group S than in group E (2.9 ± 2.5° vs. 0.3 ± 2.3°, respectively; P < 0.01, and 17.2 ± 8.9 mm vs. 6.3 ± 8.4 mm, respectively; P < 0.01). Multivariate logistic analysis revealed that the pelvic oblique angle (odds ratio [OR]: 1.80, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.28-2.52; P < 0.01) and length of the R-LLD (OR: 2.75, 95% CI: 1.24-6.12; P = 0.013) were independent risk factors of inconsistent LLD.

CONCLUSION

The pelvic oblique angle and a long R-LLD were independent risk factors of inconsistent LLD in patients with dysplastic hip osteoarthritis. Therefore, hip surgeons should consider P-LLD rather than R-LLD to understand the need for conservative intervention.

Accuracy of the Horizontal Calibrator in Correcting Leg Length and Restoring Femoral Offset in Total Hip Arthroplasty

Background

Limb length discrepancy (LLD) is one of the most common postoperative complications and can cause serious consequences. Poor recovery of femoral offset (OD) will result in weakness of the patient's external rotator muscles and affect the patient's postoperative function. The study is aimed to present a simple approach that compensates for the shortcomings of previous measuring devices and combines the advantages of different measuring devices to provide more accurate limb length and femoral offset restoration in total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Methods

This study was a prospective controlled trial involving 89 patients with THA. Group I (n = 44) was used for intraoperative measurement of THA with our self-designed horizontal calibrator. Group II (n = 45) was measured by a traditional freehand technique. The main outcome indicators were measured on the Neusoft PACS, including LLD, femoral offset deviation, and operative time. IBM SPSS 23.0 was used for data analysis.

Results

The independent sample t-test was performed for all the data. The operative time, preoperative radiographic LLD, and OD of Group I and Group II had no statistical significance. Postoperative LLD of Group I and Group II were 2.5 ± 2.1 mm (range −5.7 to 8.3 mm) and 6.2 ± 4.3 mm (range −18.0 to 15.2 mm), and the independent sample t-test data of both (P < 0.001; 95% CI = −5.1, −2.2) showed statistical significance. In Group I, there were 38 THAs with LLD <5 mm, accounting for 86% and there were 44 THAs with LLD <10 mm, accounting for 100%. In Group II, there were 20 THAs with LLD <5 mm, accounting for 44%. There were 36 THAs with LLD <10 mm, covering for 80%. There was no significant difference in postoperative femoral offset and OD.

Conclusion

The horizontal calibrator can provide more accurate limb length and femoral offset recovery in THA. It is a simple surgical technique that does not add additionally surgical costs and does not significantly increase operative time, providing a new solution for surgeons to resolve postoperative LLD and restore femoral offset.

Reliability of a simple fluoroscopic image to assess leg length discrepancy during direct anterior approach total hip arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Direct anterior approach (DAA) total hip arthroplasty (THA) in a supine position provides a unique opportunity to assess leg length discrepancy (LLD) intra-operatively with fluoroscopy. Reported fluoroscopic techniques are useful but are generally complicated or costly. Despite the use of multiple techniques for leg length assessment, LLD continues to be a major post-operative source of patient dissatisfaction further emphasizing the importance of near-anatomic restoration. The utility of an alternative direct measurement of LLD on an intra-operative fluoroscopic pelvic image during DAA THA has not been reported.

AIM

To determine the reliability of a novel simple intra-operative measurement of LLD using a parallel line technique on a single fluoroscopic digital image of the pelvis.

METHODS

One hundred and seventy-one patients who underwent DAA THA were included for analysis. Intra-operative fluoroscopic and post-operative anterior-posterior radiographs were imported to TraumaCad and calibrated for LLD measurement. LLD was measured on each image using the right-left hip differences in lesser trochanter to pelvic reference line distances. Pelvic reference points included the teardrops and ischia. Fluoroscopic LLD was compared to the gold-standard measurement of LLD measured on a post-operative radiograph.

RESULTS

Mean absolute difference in teardrop referenced LLD between fluoroscopic and post-operative radiographs was 2.17 mm and based on the ischia mean absolute difference was 2.63 mm. Linear regression of fluoroscopic and post-operative radiograph LLD based on teardrop and ischia LLD found r² values of 0.57 and 0.84, respectively. Mean absolute difference between fluoroscopic and post-operative x-ray LLD was within 5 mm in 95% of cases regardless of pelvic reference.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that a single fluoroscopic view obtained during DAA THA for leg length assessment is clinically useful.

Contralateral Lower-Limb Functional Status Before Total Hip Arthroplasty: An Important Indicator for Postoperative Gait Speed

BACKGROUND

Postoperative gait speed, especially comfortable gait speed, is an important factor for predicting function after total hip arthroplasty (THA). In this study, we examined factors related to gait speed, including preoperative lower and upper-limb functional parameters and postoperative lower-limb alignment. In addition, we examined factors related to postoperative good comfortable gait speed (≥1.34 m/s: one indicator of a good clinical outcome). The purpose of this study was to determine if better preoperative functional parameters had a positive effect on postoperative gait speed.

METHODS

This prospective case-control study included 91 patients with hip osteoarthritis who underwent unilateral THA. Patients who had undergone a prior hip surgical procedure or had Crowe type-3 and 4 hips, complications after THA, knee osteoarthritis-related pain, and severe lumbar conditions were excluded. The 1-leg standing time (OLST) and knee extensor strength of the operatively treated side and the contralateral side and the functional reach test were examined preoperatively and at 1 year postoperatively. The leg-length discrepancy and global offset compared with the contralateral side and leg lengthening were examined using 3-dimensional models captured through computed tomographic scans.

RESULTS

The preoperative contralateral side OLST was a significant factor (p < 0.001) for postoperative comfortable gait speed, and the preoperative contralateral-side knee extensor strength was a significant factor (p = 0.018) for postoperative maximum gait speed. Leg-length discrepancy and differences in global offset after THA were not significant factors for postoperative gait speed. The preoperative comfortable gait speed with a cutoff value of 1.115 m/s (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.690 [95% confidence interval, 0.569 to 0.810]; p = 0.003; sensitivity of 65.5% and specificity of 74.2%) was an independent factor associated with a good postoperative comfortable gait speed. Preoperative contralateral-side OLST was a significant factor (p = 0.027) for preoperative comfortable gait speed.

CONCLUSIONS

The preoperative contralateral-side, lower-limb functional status is a significant factor for postoperative gait speed. Early surgical intervention before the contralateral-side function declines or a preoperative rehabilitation intervention on the contralateral side may improve THA outcome.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Does total hip arthroplasty via the direct anterior approach using dual mobility increase leg length discrepancy compared with single mobility?

Background

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) via the direct anterior approach (DAA) using dual mobility cup (DMC) is considered to effectively prevent postoperative dislocation. However, the dislocation and reduction procedure using a trial implant during the surgery is difficult because of high soft tissue tension. Thereby, leg length discrepancy (LLD) is difficult to assess when using DM via the DAA.

Purpose

To compare the LLD between cases using conventional SM and those using DMC in THA via the DAA with fluoroscopy.

Patients and methods

We retrospectively investigated 34 hips treated with DMC (DMC-DAA group) and 31 hips treated with SM (SM-DAA group). The LLD was defined as the difference in the distance from the teardrop to the medial-most point of the lesser trochanter between the operative and nonoperative sides at immediate postoperative X-ray.

Results

The mean LLD in the DMC-DAA group and SM-DAA group was 0.68 ± 7.7 mm and 0.80 ± 5.5, respectively, with no significant difference. The absolute value of the LLD in the DMC-DAA group and SM-DAA group was 6.3 ± 4.4 mm and 5.9 ± 5.5, respectively, with no significant difference.

Conclusion

Despite the difficulty in assessment of the LLD during THA via the DAA using DMC, this technique does not increase the LLD compared with the use of SM.

Level of evidence

III, matched case-control study.

Prediction of leg length change (LLC) after correcting varus and flexion deformity in patients undergoing TKA

PURPOSE

Patients with varus and fixed flexion deformity (FFD) undergoing TKA may have a significant leg length change (LLC) after surgery. We aimed to determine the correlation between changes in HKA or FFD and leg length in patients undergoing TKA, the combined effect of coronal and sagittal plane deformity correction on LLC, and the possibility of estimating LLC mathematically.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a prospective radiographic evaluation of 242 knees, which had undergone primary unilateral TKA for advanced OA with varus and FFD. Full-length standing calibrated anteroposterior radiographs were used to measure the hip-knee-ankle axis (HKA) and functional leg length after adjusting for magnification. Clinical evaluation of FFD was done using a handheld goniometer.

RESULTS

224 knees (92.6%) showed increased limb length after TKA averaging 10.7 mm (SD 9.5 mm, P = .000). There was a significant correlation between the change in HKA and FFD from preoperatively to postoperatively with the amount of LLC (ρ 0.326 and 0.346, respectively, P = .000). FFD improvement from preoperatively to postoperatively was 8.1° to 1° (P = .000), respectively. A linear relationship was established between LLC and changes in HKA and FFD, where 10° improvement in HKA would result in an LLC of nearly 4 mm, and 10° improvement in FFD would result in a LLC of nearly 8 mm.

CONCLUSION

LLC may be substantial after correcting varus and FFD with unilateral TKA, it correlates with the change in HKA and FFD and can be mathematically estimated. CLINICAL TRIALS .

GOV IDENTIFIER

NCT03502382.

Cementless femoral stem fixation and leg-length discrepancy after total hip arthroplasty in different proximal femoral morphological types

PURPOSE

Leg-length changes at total hip arthroplasty (THA) may result from too proximal position of the femoral component, i.e. not being sunk deep enough into the femoral canal due to the size and shape of both medullary canal and implant. Some femoral implants are designed to achieve such fixation in the mediolateral dimension, while others also engage the bone anteroposteriorly. Our aim was to examine the relationship between proximal femoral morphology, osseointegration and leg-length equalization at THA. We asked whether the Dorr classification, femoral cortical index and canal flare index on preoperative radiographs had significant impact on THA aseptic loosening rates and post-operative leg-length discrepancy (LLD).

METHODS

Literature review included original articles on proximal femoral morphology with post-operative LLD and other clinical outcomes of THA, published in the last decade. Case reports and biomechanical studies without clinical data were excluded.

RESULTS

Higher femoral cortical index and/or canal flare index (corresponding to the Dorr type A) increases the risk of leg lengthening at THA. This is particularly notable in femoral stems with metaphyseal fixation, where high canal flare index has also been linked to osseointegration failure and implant loosening. On the other hand, lower canal flare index (corresponding to the Dorr type C) is more prevalent in the elderly population and increases late periprosthetic fracture rates and stress shielding. Even the most commonly used cementless femoral stems cannot offer optimal fit to intra-/extramedullary geometry or offset restoration in up to 30% of clinical cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Femoral morphology can have significant impact on post-operative LLD and osseointegration of cementless THA. Quantitative measurements of the proximal femoral canal may improve the choice of a particular implant and fixation method.

Patient's Perception on Leg Length Discrepancy After Total Hip Arthroplasty in Patients with Unilateral Crowe Type IV Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip

PURPOSE

The study assessed the correlation among the patients' perception of leg length discrepancy (LLD) after total hip arthroplasty (THA) in patients with unilateral Crowe type IV developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) and the four methods of measuring the leg length in the full-length standing anteroposterior radiographs.

METHODS

Sixty patients with unilateral Crowe type IV DDH were recruited in this retrospective study between January 2012 and January 2019. Four methods of measurement were used: 1) TD-TP: distance between the inferior aspect of teardrop (TD) and the midpoint of tibial plafond (TP); 2) CH-TP: distance between the center of the hip (CH) or acetabular cup and the TP; 3) GT-TP: distance between the apex of greater trochanter (GT) and the TP; and 4) FL+TL: the sum of femoral length (FL) and tibial length (TL).

RESULTS

Association was found among the patients' perception on LLD with difference in TD-TP (OR=1.157), and the difference in FL+TL (OR=1.166). The area under the curve of the difference in FL+TL and the difference TD-TP (0.704 and 0.679) was significantly higher than those of the difference in CH-TP and the difference in GT-TP (0.564 and 0.483). With the calculated threshold of LLD set at 9.0 mm, the sensitivity and specificity of the difference in TD-TP and the difference in FL+TL were 57.7%, 79.4% and 61.5%, 79.4%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Patients' perception on LLD had good correlation and reliability on the difference of FL+TL and the difference of TD-TP on both sides in the full-length standing anteroposterior radiographs after THA in patients with unilateral Crowe type IV DDH. The calculated threshold of the difference in FL+TL and the difference in TD-TP was set at 9.0 mm to assess the patients' perception on LLD.